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Tibet flash floods: 49 Indians among 24-hour hotlines established for missing foreign nationals in Tibet 261 ‘unaccounted’ foreign nationals
Gyirong, Aug 30 (IANS) A total of 261 foreign nationals from 23 countries have been identified as unaccounted for after a mudslide
struck Gyirong Port on the Tibet-Nepal border in Xizang on August 26, local authorities said on Sunday. Officials said that 49 Indians are among the 261 missing foreigners. The figure was announced at a press conference held by the information office of the regional government, following a joint search and cross-checking
Nepal flash floods: 675 dead, 2,498 missing, says disaster authority
Kathmandu, Aug 30 (IANS) Nepal's National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority said that 675 bodies had been recovered from mudslidehit areas, with 2,498 people still
missing. According to Nepal's Department of Tourism under the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, a total of 753 tourists had lost contact as of 17:30 local time on Saturday, including 589 foreign nationals. Kathmandu District Administrative Office issued an urgent notice on Saturday, calling on various associations, institutions, enterprises and Continued on Page 3
of information by foreign affairs, public security, culture and tourism, and emergency management authorities. Those unaccounted for include 104 people from Nepal, 49 from India, 33 from Latvia, 18 from the United States, 15 from Britain, six from Canada, six from Australia, four from South Africa, Continued on Page 3
New Delhi, Aug 30 (IANS) The Embassy of India in Beijing has said authorities in China’s Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) have set up two dedicated 24-hour English-
language hotlines to assist families seeking information about missing foreign nationals following the recent flash floods and mudslides in the region. “Following the recent flash floods and mudslides in the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), People’s Republic of China, TAR authorities have established two dedicated 24-hour EnglishContinued on Page 3
India restablishes contacts with 50 nationals in Nepal, 275 remain missing: MEA
New Delhi, Aug 29 (IANS) The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Saturday said that contact has been reestablished with 50 Indian nationals and rescued a total of 108 members, reducing
the number of missing Indian nationals in Nepal to 275, after the devastating floods on Wednesday. “Till date, 108 Indian nationals have been rescued in Nepal, and contact was re-established with around 50 Indian nationals who were earlier uncontactable. Furthermore, 598 Indian nationals have safely crossed into Nepal from China in the last two days, as per local Government sources in China. Around 900 Indian nationals are still on the Chinese
side but are safe and contactable. Unfortunately, more than 275 Indian nationals and 128 persons of Indian origin remain missing or non-contactable,” MEA stated. According to the Ministry, the Indian Embassies in Kathmandu and Beijing have also remained engaged with all the relevant stakeholders to ensure effective coordination of search, rescue and relief efforts, in connection with Indian nationals impacted by Continued on Page 3
PM Modi receives grand welcome Bhagwat urges Indian diaspora in US to remain in Uzbekistan, women tie rakhi Tashkent, Aug 29 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday received a grand welcome from India community in Uzbekistan, with people cheering and chanting “Modi Modi”, Vande Mataram” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.” Continued on Page 3
A few women from the Indian community also tied a rakhi to PM Modi’s hand as he was greeting the community members. He also witnessed cultural performances by artists. PM Modi Continued on Page 3
loyal to ‘karma bhumi’
New York, Aug 30 (IANS) RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has urged the Indian diaspora to remain loyal to the United States and fulfil its responsibilities to the country where it lives and works, while practising the civilisational values inherited from India. “We are in America. We live in America. We earn in America. So we are America. And we should behave true to America,” Bhagwat said during his address at the Universal Oneness Celebration at Madison Square Garden in New York.
Continued on Page 3
INDIA NEWS
Sept 1-15, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 2 Rajnath Singh exhorts defence PSUs to onboard PM-SETU for Viksit Bharat
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Sept 1-15, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 2
COVER STORIES
Tibet flash floods: 49 Indians among 24-hour hotlines established for missing foreign nationals in Tibet 261 ‘unaccounted’ foreign nationals Continued from page 1
Continued from page 1
three from Malaysia, three from Germany, three from Russia, two from Ireland, two from Estonia, two from France, two from the Netherlands, two from New Zealand, and one each from Kazakhstan, Finland, Lithuania, Portugal, Ukraine, Spain and Hungary. Chinese authorities have notified the countries' embassies and consulates in China, according to the press conference, reports Xinhua news agency. Following multiple rounds of searches, site inspections and
checks of individuals at the port, no foreign tourists are currently stranded in Gyirong County, the authorities said. Meanwhile, in Nepal, 675 bodieshave been recovered from affected areas, with 2,498 people still missing, the country's National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority confirmed. According to Nepal's Department of Tourism under the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, a total of 753 tourists had lost contact as of 17:30 local time on Saturday, including 589 foreign
nationals. Kathmandu District Administrative Office issued an urgent notice on Saturday, calling on various associations, institutions, enterprises and individuals in Kathmandu to donate relief supplies to assist the victims in Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading districts. The floods, triggered by a sudden surge in the Bhote Koshi River, caused widespread loss of life and extensive damage to hydropower projects, roads, bridges and other infrastructure in the affected areas.
India restablishes contacts with 50 nationals in Nepal, 275 remain missing: MEA Continued from page 1
the flash flood. “Our Missions have also ensured sustained efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of rescued Indian nationals apart from facilitating their return to India, wherever required, and are monitoring and facilitating the transit of Indian nationals returning from the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra through Nepal,” MEA said. “As neighbours, India and Nepal share special and close relations,
underpinned by civilizational ties and extensive people-topeople linkages. With many Indian nationals having also lost their lives, the people of India share in the grief caused by these devastating flash floods. India stands in solidarity with Nepal in this tragic time, and remains committed to providing all possible assistance,” the MEA said. Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Nepal said that the Nepal government has been releasing photographs and descriptions
of the deceased, which can be accessed through the nepal police website. “The Embassy of India, Kathmandu, is working closely with Nepali authorities, including the Nepal Police, to ensure that the mortal remains of Indian nationals can be handed over to the next of kin after identification. The Embassy will provide further updates on this matter in coordination with Nepali authorities,” the Embassy noted in a statement.
language hotlines to assist families seeking information about missing foreign nationals,” the Embassy of India in Beijing said in a post on X. The Embassy shared the two numbers through which families can seek information about missing foreign nationals. The hotlines can be reached at 0086891-6817165 and 0086-183-08026705. The advisory comes amid a devastating natural disaster that has caused widespread destruction across Tibet and neighbouring Nepal. Catastrophic flash floods and mudslides, triggered by the collapse of a Himalayan glacier, have severely affected areas along the ChinaNepal border. At least 16 people have been reported dead and 546 missing on the Chinese side alone following the disaster, while critical infrastructure has also been extensively damaged. The disaster struck on Wednesday, August 26, with torrential floodwaters and mudslides sweeping through affected areas. Roads, bridges and other essential infrastructure were damaged, disrupting transport and access to several affected locations. Meanwhile, authorities in Nepal have issued fresh warnings as water levels in major rivers continue to rise following the
extreme weather and flooding. Nepal’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) issued a flood warning on Sunday, stating that the water level in the Bhote Koshi River in Rasuwa district had risen further. “All those engaged in search, rescue and relief operations in affected areas, including Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading and Chitwan districts, those staying along the riversides, and all other concerned are requested to remain alert,” the authority said in a notice issued on Sunday morning. According to the Flood Forecasting Division under Nepal’s Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, the water level in the Trishuli River, downstream of the Bhote Koshi in the Galchhi area of Dhading district, has risen three metres above the usual level. Authorities have urged residents living near riverbanks and personnel involved in rescue and relief operations to remain vigilant as the threat of further flooding persists. The establishment of dedicated English-language hotlines in Tibet is expected to provide a direct channel for families, including those outside China, seeking information about foreign nationals who may have gone missing in the disaster.
PM Modi receives grand welcome Nepal flash floods: 675 dead, 2,498 in Uzbekistan, women tie rakhi missing, says disaster authority Continued from page 1
was seen intriguingly observing dance performances by children and shook their hands after the performance. Earlier, PM Modi visited the Yangi Uzbekistan Monument and said that it reflects the aspirations and progress of the Uzbek people. “Upon landing in Tashkent, went to lay a wreath at the Yangi Uzbekistan Monument with President Mirziyoyev. The Yangi Uzbekistan Monument reflects the aspirations and progress of the Uzbek people. Glad to begin my visit by coming here,” PM Modi stated on X. PM Modi was accompanied by Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev as both
leaders examined the artwork representing Uzbek culture and history at the Yangi Uzbekistan Park. Earlier, PM Modi thanked President Mirziyoyev for the warm welcome at Tashkent airport as he began his two-day State Visit to the Central Asian nation. In a special gesture, Mirziyoyev travelled to the airport and received PM Modi, highlighting the friendship between both countries that has grown immensely over the last 12 years. "Landed in Tashkent to a warm welcome by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Grateful to him for the special gesture. This is my fourth visit to Uzbekistan, reflecting the depth and growing
momentum of our bilateral relations," PM Modi posted on X after landing in Tashkent. During the visit, PM Modi will hold delegation-level talks with President Mirziyoyev, advancing the shared developmental visions of Viksit Bharat 2047 and Uzbekistan-2030. "In recent years, the IndiaUzbekistan Strategic Partnership has seen significant advancement. I look forward to my discussions with President Mirziyoyev on further deepening our cooperation in trade and investment, digital connectivity, defence, energy, and on advancing our shared visions of Viksit Bharat and Yangi Uzbekistan," PM Modi said in his departure statement.
country. But India did not demand such assistance from them. “Because Bharat is their Janmabhoomi, if they have urge to do something and they can do that, after fulfilling their duty to their Karmabhoomi, it is not prohibited,” he said. “Okay. But it is not obligatory.
Your Janmabhoomi expects you to live the values it has imparted on you.” Bhagwat’s address focused on pluralism, unity in diversity, human responsibility and sustainable living. The gathering brought together people from different faiths, cultures and professions.
Bhagwat urges Indian diaspora in US to remain loyal to ‘karma bhumi’ Continued from page 1
“The diaspora, Bharatiya diaspora, they have a duty to their karma bhumi. They must fulfil that. They should be loyal to their karma bhumi,” he said. Bhagwat said members of the diaspora could contribute to India after meeting their responsibilities in their adopted
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Continued from page 1
individuals in Kathmandu to donate relief supplies to assist the victims in Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading districts, Xinhua news agency reported. The floods, triggered by a sudden surge in the Bhote Koshi River, caused widespread loss of life and extensive damage to hydropower projects, roads, bridges and other infrastructure in the affected areas. Meanhwile, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Saturday said that a 4th flight from India with an additional 11 tonnes of assistance has been dispatched to Nepal in a C-130 aircraft, as the Himalayan Nation was hit with devastating floods. “The 4th flight from India with 11 tonnes of assistance is now airborne. The C-130 aircraft is carrying: A Tunnel technical contingent along with equipment
for search & rescue operations. A team of forensic experts for DNA analysis along with Forensic equipment. Relief supplies, including blankets, sleeping bags, tarpaulin, plastic sheets and hygiene kits,” EAM Jaishankar stated on X. He noted that 16 trucks carrying equipment for a 230-foot Single Lane Modular Steel Bridge have reached Nepal, and Equipment for installation of seven more Bailey bridges will be supplied soon. According to him, technical teams for their installation are expected to reach shortly. So far, a total of 68.5 tonnes of relief material comprising essential medicines, portable generator sets, food packets, water purification tablets and technical equipment have been airlifted to Kathmandu. “Our support to the relief and rescue efforts of Nepal continues,” he added. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), on Wednesday, an Indian Air Force (IAF) C-130J Hercules airlifted 10 tonnes of emergency relief material such as temporary shelters, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps, and medicines.
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Sept 1-15, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 2
Rajnath Singh exhorts defence PSUs to onboard PM-SETU for Viksit Bharat
Lucknow, Aug 30 (IANS) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday exhorted the public sector defence companies to partner with PM-SETU to create a strong, skilled workforce in the march for a Viksit Bharat. Addressing the PM-SETU industry conclave here, organised by the Union Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh government, he stressed that the availability of a skilled workforce is fundamental to nation-building, as he reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of converting India's demographic dividend into a productive dividend. Rajnath Singh underscored the need to align the skilling ecosystem with industry requirements, stating that skill certificates hold value only when they lead to meaningful employment. Calling upon industries to view PM-SETU as a collaborative mission rather than merely a government scheme, he urged them to actively participate in shaping the workforce that will ultimately serve their own growth and competitiveness. The minister appealed to defence public sector undertakings
and other defence-related organisations to actively partner in the PM-SETU initiative, while also stressing the need to transform ITIs and strengthen apprenticeship opportunities. He stated that the success of PM-SETU should be measured not by the number of machines installed, but by the employment opportunities it creates and the lives it positively impacts. The event witnessed participation from senior leadership of leading defence and manufacturing organisations including Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), BrahMos Aerospace, Ashok Leyland, NSDC, TCIL, PTC, along with representatives from the World Bank, industry associations and other strategic stakeholders. The conclave was informed that approved Industry Partnership proposals under PM-SETU currently represent more than Rs 1,500 crore of committed industry-led investment across seven clusters in five states, with several additional proposals under consideration. Rajnath Singh emphasised that India's journey towards becoming a global manufacturing and technology powerhouse would be driven by the availability of highly skilled manpower. He highlighted that sectors such as defence manufacturing, aerospace, electronics, drones, robotics, precision engineering and automation are witnessing rapid technological advancements and require a workforce equipped with future-ready skills. He underscored that a strong domestic defence industrial
base and a strong skilling ecosystem must grow together to support India's aspirations for self-reliance and technological leadership. The conclave brought together senior representatives from government, industry, multilateral institutions, defence public sector enterprises, sector skill councils and skilling stakeholders to deliberate on strengthening industry participation in vocational education and transforming Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) into world-class centres of excellence. The Defence Minister highlighted Uttar Pradesh's emergence as a major hub for manufacturing and defence production, driven by the rapid growth of its industrial ecosystem and the Defence Corridor. Emphasising the importance of stronger industry-academia linkages, he noted that collaboration between industry and training institutions is crucial to equip youth with future-ready skills and expressed confidence that such partnerships would steer the state in the right direction. He further remarked that under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Uttar Pradesh is witnessing transformative development across multiple sectors. In his remarks on the occasion, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Chaudhary said that PM-SETU represents a new partnership model between government, industry, and training institutions.
FM Sitharaman addresses vibrant Indian diaspora in US, meets top CEOs
Chicago, Aug 30 (IANS) Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman interacted and addressed the vibrant Indian diaspora community in the US at the Consulate General of India’s office here, an official statement said on Sunday. FM Sitharaman lauded the diaspora’s role as a formidable force that enhances India's soft power, global standing, and bilateral relationships. She emphasised India’s potential to serve not only as a major market but also as a global hub for developing, testing and manufacturing autonomous defence systems, leveraging its technology capabilities, skilled workforce and growing innovation ecosystem. She met Mark S. Hoplamazian, President and CEO, Hyatt, in Chicago. The discussions covered Hyatt’s continued commitment to India and opportunities to further expand its presence as the country’s tourism and hospitality sector enters a new phase of growth, according to a Finance Ministry statement. She highlighted India’s improving connectivity and infrastructure, which is opening up new tourism and commercial destinations, with Tier-II and Tier-III cities
New Delhi, Aug 30 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday shared Krishna Seshadri's story and praised him for his unique historical work, highlighting a specialised website created by him. Addressing the 137th episode of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat', PM Modi recalled that sometime ago, someone on social media wrote, "On this auspicious occasion of Ashaadha Ekadashi, I am very happy to announce that I am embarking on an initiative to make history interesting." The Prime Minister said that the person further elaborated on the "very simple" idea of the procedure and mentioned that
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India during that era. Krishna thanked PM Modi for giving him a platform to elaborate on his website. He explained how even after coming from an engineering background, he was always drawn towards history; hence, he thought of making such a thing to make people aware of Indian history. "I thought of making a website to introduce the great empires of the nation to the people," Krishna told the Prime Minister. PM Modi asked if Krishna had a chance to talk to three people from Indian history, whom would he choose. To this, Krishna replied, Rajendra Chola, one of the most important rulers of the Chola dynasty, to know more about the architecture from his era. The second personality, he said, is Hemu, an ordinary trader who later built an empire and won 22 fights of the 23 he fought in his lifetime.
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emerging as important centres of economic activity and travel. The Finance Minister also highlighted the growing opportunities in destinationled tourism, including spiritual, cultural, wellness, medical, nature and experiential tourism, and encouraged Hyatt to leverage its global expertise and asset-light model to deepen partnerships with Indian developers and investors, according to a Finance Ministry post on X. FM Sitharaman also suggested exploring opportunities for talent development through the National Institute of Hospitality and GIFT City as a potential financing and treasury hub for Hyatt’s growing India operations. She earlier met Brandon Tseng, Co-founder and President, Shield AI. The discussions focused on Shield AI’s engagement with India and opportunities to deepen cooperation in AI-enabled autonomy, unmanned systems and next-generation defence technologies, including R&D, technology development, codevelopment and co-production. The Finance Minister welcomed Shield AI’s continued interest in India and highlighted the country’s rapidly expanding defence technology ecosystem, strong engineering and AI talent, and growing capabilities in advanced manufacturing and innovation.
India, Sri Lanka discuss ways to deepen maritime security cooperation
Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi praises Mumbai man for creating specialised website to know India’s history by visiting a website, selecting any one year, one will easily get to know who ruled which part of India at that time. "I found it quite interesting; so I thought that I should get more information about this. I came to know that this was done by Mumbai's Krishna Seshadri ji. Interestingly, Krishna Ji has kept a very simple name for the website -- www.bharatrajya.com. Information about his effort must reach you all also. So I thought of having a conversation with Krishna ji," PM Modi said. "I came to know that you are neither from the world of tech nor a history teacher. Even then, you made a history website using technology. I am very curious to know how all this happened," the Prime Minister asked Krishna. Through Seshadri's work, people can select any particular year on the website to instantly map and see which ruler or dynasty governed what specific part of
NEWS FROM INDIA
New Delhi, Aug 27 (IANS) Sri Lanka Navy Commander, Vice Admiral Damian Fernando, on Thursday called on Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh in New Delhi, with the discussions focusing on the progress of various initiatives under the Bilateral Defence Cooperation Plan between the two countries. “The two sides reviewed activities and projects under the Bilateral Defence Cooperation Plan and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral defence cooperation in areas of mutual interest,” the Ministry of Defence stated on X. Earlier in the day, Fernando met Indian Navy Chief Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, where the two sides discussed ways to strengthen maritime security cooperation between the two countries. According to the Indian Navy,
during the meeting both sides reaffirmed commitment to uphold peace and stability in the Indian Ocean (IOR) region, aligned with India's Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth across Regions (MAHASAGAR) vision. Fernando, who is on a threeday official visit to India, was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the South Block Lawns in New Delhi before holding bilateral discussions with Swaminathan. "The deliberations focused on strengthening maritime security cooperation, institutionalised training and capacity-building initiatives. The high-level engagement reaffirms the deep-rooted maritime bonds between India and SriLanka and contributes to sustained peace and stability across the IOR, in line with India's vision of MAHASAGAR," the Indian Navy posted on X. Earlier in August, during his official visit to Sri Lanka, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri reaffirmed India’s unwavering commitment to the island nation under India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and ‘Vision MAHASAGAR ', said the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) as he concluded his visit to Colombo.
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INDIA NEWS
NEWS FROM INDIA
HM Amit Shah inaugurates ‘Gujarat Gaurav KPSC chief suspended by Sarovar’ in Amreli, highlights water conservation Governor under Article 317 (2)
Amreli, Aug 27 (IANS) Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Thursday inaugurated the 'Gujarat Gaurav Sarovar', a newly constructed water reservoir on the Gagadiyo river near Dudhala village of Amreli district, underlining the role of water conservation in addressing drought and improving groundwater availability. The reservoir, constructed by the Dholakia Foundation, covers
about 21 acres and is expected to benefit agriculture and local residents by improving water availability and groundwater conservation. The lake, constructed at an estimated cost of Rs four crore over an area of 80,000 square feet, will benefit agriculture and residents of the area. Union Minister Shah inaugurated the project in the presence of Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi and other Ministers. Addressing the gathering, Union Minister Shah praised the Dholakia family's work in water conservation and said the initiative to revive rivers and deepen ponds had brought significant benefits to the region.
"The newly inaugurated reservoir could store millions of litres of water and referred to the revival of groundwater levels and wells following such conservation efforts," he said. Union Minister Shah also highlighted Gujarat's water conservation initiatives under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, recalling the construction of 1.5 lakh check dams in the state in 2003. He noted that the Saurashtra Narmada Avtran Irrigation (SAUNI Yojana) had allowed surplus rainwater to be stored and Narmada water to reach Saurashtra, Kutch and Khavda, while around 10,000 reservoirs in North and Central Gujarat were being filled with Narmada water.
22 people belonging to Telangana untraced in Nepal
Hyderabad, Aug 27 (IANS) A total of 22 persons belonging to Telangana remained untraced following the devastating floods in Nepal, officials said on Thursday. The state government is continuously monitoring the situation arising out of the floods in Nepal and adjoining areas and is coordinating necessary assistance through the Helpline and Coordination Centre at Telangana Bhavan, New Delhi, in coordination with the Helpline functioning at the Telangana Secretariat, Hyderabad. Since activation of the helpline, around 80–100 calls have been received from family members and others seeking information
and assistance. After preliminary scrutiny and verification of the information received, 20 cases concerning 23 persons have been identified for further action and coordination. Of the 23 persons, 6 are from Telangana, and 17 are Telanganaorigin NRIs, said an official release. In a positive development, one person from Ranga Reddy district, who had travelled for the Kailash–Manasarovar Yatra, has now been confirmed safe and has established contact with his family. Accordingly, one of the 23 persons has been confirmed safe, while follow-up is continuing in respect of the remaining 22 persons in coordination with the authorities concerned. Several of the persons concerned were travelling in the Nepal–
Tibet region, including those proceeding towards or returning from the Manasarovar Yatra. Their last known locations include areas around Rasuwa, Rasuwagadhi, and Gyirong on the Nepal–Tibet border. On the instructions of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, Telangana Bhavan officials are maintaining continuous coordination with the Telangana Secretariat, the Ministry of External Affairs, the Embassy of India and other authorities concerned for tracing the persons concerned, ascertaining their safety, and facilitating necessary assistance. The Resident Commissioner, Telangana Bhavan, New Delhi, is personally monitoring the situation and reviewing the coordination and follow-up being undertaken by the officials concerned.
Bengaluru, Aug 25 (IANS) Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot has suspended the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) Chairman Shivashankarappa S. Sahukar under Article 317(2) of the Constitution of India, following an order of the Karnataka High Court. According to a press release issued by the Karnataka Governor's Secretariat on Tuesday, the suspension was ordered based on the aid and advice of the State Cabinet dated August 21. The Governor's decision also comes in accordance with the order of the Karnataka High Court in a case dated August 18. Shivashankarappa Sahukar, who is serving as Chairman of the Karnataka Public Service
PM Modi extends Onam, Eid greetings; calls for happiness, togetherness
Annamalai plans month long women’s safety campaign across Tamil Nadu
Chennai, Aug 26 (IANS) Politician and former IPS officer, K. Annamalai, is set to organise a month-long awareness campaign on women’s safety across Tamil Nadu in September under the banner of his organisation, 'We The Leaders’. The campaign will focus on educating the public about the challenges faced by women and the importance of creating safer spaces for them. Volunteers associated with the organisation are expected to conduct awareness programmes and community-level activities
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in different parts of the State throughout the month. Annamalai launched ‘We The Leaders’ after leaving the Bharatiya Janata Party. He is also reportedly preparing to establish a new political party. Ahead of formally announcing his political plans, he has been undertaking a series of social awareness initiatives with the support of volunteers from the organisation. These campaigns are being viewed as part of his efforts to connect with people across Tamil Nadu and expand his organisation’s presence at the grassroots level. Each month, ‘We The Leaders’ has been concentrating on a specific social issue and carrying out related public outreach activities. In July, Annamalai led an extensive campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of
drug abuse. The initiative sought to educate young people and families about the growing threat posed by narcotic substances and the need for community participation in preventing drug addiction. During August, the organisation shifted its attention to environmental conservation. Volunteers have been involved in cleaning beaches, rivers and other water bodies across the State. According to the organisation, around 190 tonnes of waste has so far been removed as part of the drive. ‘We The Leaders’ has also undertaken a large-scale tree-planting campaign. The organisation claims that nearly seven lakh saplings have been planted in different parts of Tamil Nadu under its banner.
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Commission, has been suspended until further orders from the President Droupadi Murmu. The press statement also said that the next senior-most member of the Karnataka Public Service Commission has been directed to discharge the functions of the Chairman until further orders. The suspension comes amid scrutiny surrounding the functioning of the KPSC and ongoing developments related to allegations concerning the recruitment process. The Governor's Secretariat issued the order through R. Prabhu Shankar, Special Secretary to the Governor. It can be noted that Sahukar is accused of abusing his power to illegally facilitate the selection of his two daughters (including Suma Sahukar) as Industrial Extension Officers through the KPSC. One daughter allegedly provided a manipulated lowincome and caste certificate declaring the family's annual income as Rs 40,000 to claim OBC reservation benefits, while concealing her father's high-profile post. Additional complaints emerged accusing the family of acquiring massive commercial and agricultural properties disproportionate to their known income.
New Delhi, Aug 26 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday extended his greetings to people across the country and around the world on the occasions of Onam and Eid Milad-un-Nabi, wishing for happiness, togetherness, and prosperity. Taking to social media platform X, the Prime Minister conveyed his wishes on Onam and said, "Wishing everyone a beautiful Onam. This is a vibrant festival celebrated with great enthusiasm all over the world. May this festival further empower the spirit of happiness, togetherness, and prosperity. Have a wonderful Onam. This is a vibrant festival that is being marked all over the world with immense fervour. May it further the spirit of happiness, togetherness and prosperity." He also extended greetings on Eid Milad-un-Nabi and said, "Eid
Mubarak! Greetings on Milad-unNabi. I hope this occasion furthers togetherness and joy all around us. May the spirit of kindness and giving back to society always guide us." Onam is Kerala's biggest and one of its most colourful harvest festivals. Celebrated over 10 days during the Malayalam month of Chingam, the festival generally falls in August or September. It is a celebration of harvest, abundance, cultural traditions and social harmony, bringing together people from different communities and walks of life. According to Drik Panchang, Thiruvonam, the most significant day of the festival, falls on Wednesday. According to Hindu mythology, Onam commemorates the annual homecoming of King Mahabali, remembered as a wise, generous and beloved ruler whose reign was believed to have been an era of peace and prosperity. Legend has it that Lord Vishnu took the form of Vamana, a dwarf, and approached Mahabali seeking land measuring three paces. After the king agreed, Vamana assumed a gigantic form and covered the Earth and the heavens in two steps.
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NEWS FROM INDIA
Piyush Goyal lauds Indian diaspora K’taka govt gives 15‑day ultimatum to food businesses for strengthening India-Japan ties
New Delhi, Aug 25 (IANS) Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday lauded the contribution of the Indian diaspora in Japan for strengthening India-Japan ties. Addressing the Indian community in Tokyo, he described the nearly 60,000-strong Indian diaspora in
Japan as “Brand Ambassadors of India.” Goyal said that the energy, enthusiasm and confidence witnessed during his visit to Japan reflected the growing strength of India-Japan relations. He expressed gratitude to the Indian community for building goodwill through their work and engagement with Japanese society. He noted that more than 200 representatives from Indian industry and business were part of the delegation accompanying him during his visit to Japan.
Describing it as the largest business delegation he had led to Japan, he said the strong participation reflected substantial interest on both sides in expanding business-to-business engagement and investment opportunities. The Minister highlighted the transformation in India's global standing over the past decade. He said that India's growth, the country's rising global profile and the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi have contributed to greater confidence and respect for India and its citizens across the world.
Gujarat: Stones pelted at Vande Bharat near Surat; UP Governor Anandiben Patel safe
Surat, Aug 25 (IANS) Stones were pelted at the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Vande Bharat Express near Utran station in Surat on Tuesday evening while former Gujarat Chief Minister and Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel was travelling on the train, damaging the windows of two coaches. Patel remained unharmed as she was seated in the Executive Coach. The incident involving Train
No. 22961 took place between Utran and Kosad around 6:30 p.m. and 6:45 p.m., according to preliminary information. The glass windows of coaches C-6 and C-10 were damaged in the stone-pelting. The Railway Protection Force (RPF) reached the location after receiving information about the incident and detained a man, aged around 30, from near the railway tracks. Preliminary questioning indicated that the man was heavily intoxicated. Police and RPF officials were questioning him to establish his identity and ascertain his involvement and the circumstances behind the stonepelting.
There was no immediate report of any passenger being injured, and Patel was safe, according to reports. The incident occurred as the train was travelling towards Ahmedabad after departing from Mumbai. Police and railway authorities are continuing their investigation to determine whether the detained man was responsible for the attack and whether anyone else was involved. Patel, who has served as Uttar Pradesh Governor since 2019 and is the state's longest-serving governor, is reportedly in Gujarat during a 10-day leave from August 17 to 26.
Bengaluru, Aug 25 (IANS) The Karnataka Food Safety and Drug Administration Commissioner has directed all food business operators across the state to strictly comply with food safety, hygiene and sanitation requirements, giving them 15 days to rectify deficiencies identified during recent inspections. The department on Tuesday gave food business operators 15 days from the advisory's issuance date to rectify the identified deficiencies. Re‑inspections will be conducted after the 15 days. Businesses that fail to correct the deficiencies, or continue to violate food safety requirements, may face legal action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the rules and regulations made under it. The department said strict compliance with the directions
Tamil Nadu CM Vijay to release Mettur water for Cauvery delta
Kolkata Metro Pink Line: People await timely completion after KMC NOC
Kolkata, Aug 25 (IANS) With nearly all major hurdles cleared, people in Kolkata’s northern suburbs are now hoping for timely completion of the Metro Railway’s Pink Line from Baranagar to Barrackpore. “We have been waiting for over 10 years now. However, no progress has been made till now. Hopefully, work will start soon. This will be of great help to students and working professionals, particularly women, who have to use Eastern Railway’s suburban services or road transport on the congested B T Road to reach Kolkata now,” Bikash Roy, a resident of Barrackpore, said. On Monday, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to close the legacy 48‑inch drinking water pipeline that runs
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below B T Road. This was holding up construction work of the 12.40 km metro stretch that will be constructed by Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd (RVNL). The agency has already sought bids to construct a viaduct over the B T Road and 10 stations for the stretch. The contract will be worth nearly Rs 1,587.39 crore, and the last date for bid submission is September 29, 2026. Despite a proposal to replace the old pipeline with a new 72‑inch pipeline, the previous government in West Bengal was not keen to close the existing one. “The ball is in the Metro Railway’s court now. We wish to see timely completion of this project. Not only will this reduce travel time to Kolkata, but the journey will be much more comfortable. This link will also promote the creation of more businesses around the B T Road. People from Kolkata can commute comfortably to companies that come up here,” Biplab Mukherjee, a resident of Agarpara, said. The Barrackpore–Titagarh belt
and locations on both sides of B T Road have been a traditional industrial zone close to Kolkata. Heavy industries like Titagarh Wagons and Texmaco exist along the B T Road. A CESC power generation plant also operates in Titagarh. Locals are upbeat that the Metro Railway clearance will pave the way for further industrial growth. “The new government has promised a lot. It should concentrate on more industries in this area, now that it is getting connected to the city. We hope to see an overall development along both sides of the B T Road,” Sagnik Majumdar, a resident of Barrackpore, said. While West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has welcomed the KMC's move to grant the NOC, he said it will be his responsibility to ensure no more hurdles come up. The government and local civic bodies have already begun clearing encroachments on either side of the B T Road to ensure free traffic flow when construction work starts.
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is necessary to protect public health and ensure that consumers receive safe, quality and hygienic food. In an advisory, the department said it issued the directions after observing instances of noncompliance related to food safety, cleanliness and hygiene during a special inspection drive across Karnataka. The advisory requires food businesses to possess a valid FSSAI licence or registration and comply with all applicable food safety rules and regulations. Businesses have also been instructed to ensure that only safe, wholesome and fit‑for‑consumption food is prepared, stored and sold. Key requirements include procuring raw materials from reliable sources, storing them at prescribed temperatures, and verifying batch numbers, manufacturing dates, and expiry dates. Expired or unfit food products must be immediately segregated and disposed of to prevent their use or sale. The department has also stressed cleanliness of kitchens and food premises, including floors, walls, windows, ceilings and storage areas. Food‑contact surfaces such as utensils, knives, cutting boards and counters must be properly cleaned and sanitised.
Salem, Aug 26 (IANS) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, C. Joseph Vijay, is expected to open the Mettur Dam on August 28 to release water for irrigation in the Cauvery delta districts, as the reservoir’s water level continues to rise steadily. Water is traditionally released from the Mettur Dam on June 12 every year to support agricultural operations in the Cauvery delta. However, the date may be postponed depending on the availability of water in the reservoir. The release benefits nearly 16 lakh acres of agricultural land spread across 13 districts, including Salem, Namakkal, Erode, Karur, Tiruchi and Thanjavur. The water is particularly important for farmers cultivating the short-term kuruvai paddy
crop. This year, the dam could not be opened on the customary date because of inadequate storage. Even after a delay of about 70 days, water has not been released for kuruvai cultivation, prompting farmers to repeatedly urge the State government to act without further delay. The water level in the dam stood at 88.43 feet on Tuesday, while the inflow was recorded at 10,807 cubic feet per second. The continuous inflow has resulted in a gradual increase in the reservoir level, which is expected to touch 90 feet within the next two days. As a general practice, when water cannot be released on June 12, the government considers opening the dam after its level reaches 90 feet. The latest rise in storage has strengthened expectations of an imminent release for delta irrigation. Opposition legislators raised the issue in the Tamil Nadu Assembly on Tuesday morning and sought clarity from the government on when the dam would be opened. Water Resources Minister Anand responded to the questions and indicated that the situation was being closely monitored.
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Convergence of India-Uzbekistan can be bridge between Central and South Asia: Uzbek media
Tashkent, Aug 30 (IANS) The convergence of the trajectories of India and Uzbekistan can make their partnership one of the main bridges connecting Central and South Asia, according to an Uzbek media report. "At the core of these changes are the firm political will of the leaders of both states, the absence of fundamental contradictions, the historical
closeness of the two nations, and the complementarity of their economies. In other words, relations have entered a period of institutional strengthening, expanded economic content, and a gradual transition toward joint value creation," the Uzbekistan National News Agency (UzA) report said. The report, coming ahead of the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said that the visit "will undoubtedly provide an additional impetus to bilateral interaction, allowing the consolidation of agreements reached and the determination of new priorities for the strategic partnership". It said that the political dialogue between the two countries has taken on a systematic trusting character and that at least six high-level bilateral contacts have
taken place in both in-person and virtual formats since 2017. "Additional stability to the political interactions has been provided by the India – Central Asia Summit, consultations between foreign policy departments, the intergovernmental commission, and inter-parliamentary contacts," it said. It also said that India and Uzbekistan share approaches to strengthening the United Nations’ central role, countering terrorism, stabilising Afghanistan, and shaping a multipolar world order. "The two countries pursue a policy of strategic autonomy, advocating cooperation free from bloc thinking. This closeness makes their relations resilient to external contingencies," it highlighted.
Indian diaspora excited at PM Modi’s visit to Kyrgyzstan
Bishkek, Aug 30 (IANS) The Indian diaspora in Kyrgyzstan on Sunday expressed their excitement for the upcoming visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Central Asian nation. "I am very happy that he is coming here for the first time. I am very, very happy because I have never seen him before, and now he is coming to Bishkek for the first time, and I will meet him face-
to-face. I am very excited..." an Indian said to IANS, expressing his excitement for meeting PM Modi. Sabina Abylgazieva, a Kyrgyz entrepreneur and business/ investment specialist, expressed confidence in the potential for cooperation between India and Kyrgyzstan. "I believe that cooperation between India and Kyrgyzstan has great potential, as our two countries are already working together and sharing valuable experiences. I think there are significant opportunities, particularly in the business sector, where we can learn from our Indian partners and
exchange expertise, ideas, and opportunities..." Abylgazieva told IANS. Youth Movement of Kyrgyzstan Chairman, Jakshylyk Beknazarov, called India "one of the most developed countries in the world", and said Kyrgyzstan values India’s experience and achievements. "India is one of the most developed countries in the world, and Kyrgyzstan greatly values its experience and achievements. India has a wealth of experience in tourism, IT, science, cinema and many other fields. That is why we, as Kyrgyzstanis, want to share our own experiences with India and learn from each other," Beknazarov told IANS.
Indian peacekeepers continue to assist displaced persons in Abyei: UN
Abyei, Aug 29 (IANS) The United Nations Department of Peace Operations on Saturday said that Indian peacekeepers with the United Nations Interim Force for Abyei (UNISFA) continue to assist internally displaced people in Abyei. “Indian peacekeepers with UNISFA continue their commitment to assisting internally displaced persons in Abyei. The Mission's support includes critically needed basic services, educational initiatives and community engagement,” the UN department stated on X. The Abyei region is managed by UNISFA, located between Sudan and South Sudan.
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In June, India's Permanent Representative to the UN, P. Harish, highlighted that "India was the first to deploy an allfemale Unit to the United Nations Mission in Liberia, inspiring 1000s of Liberian women to join their national police." According to him, Women peacekeepers give hope to vulnerable women in conflict situations, serving as symbols of female empowerment, and the more than 160 women in UN missions exemplify this role, according to P. Harish. Indian Army Major Abhilasha Barak, who was awarded the UN Peacekeeper's Gender Advocate Award, and the two other Indian women awardees before her are outstanding examples of this role, P. Harish told the Security Council. "Today, more than 160 Indian women peacekeepers serve in the field in various UN Missions." On the importance of deploying
women in peacekeeping operations, P. Harish said, "They build trust in communities. They give hope to vulnerable populations, particularly women and children. They serve as visible symbols of women's agency in maintaining peace and security." "Most critically, they help address gender-based violence and ensure that peace processes reflect the needs and perspectives of all segments of society," he added. To enhance the role of women peacekeepers from around the world, P. Harish said, "India set up the Centre for UN Peacekeeping in Delhi to train women military officers from across the globe." "Last year, participants from 15 countries attended the UN Women Military Officers Course, and women peacekeepers from 35 countries came together for the Conference for Women Peacekeepers from the Global South," he added.
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WORLD NEWS
US controls Hormuz: White House
Washington, Aug 29 (IANS) The White House has declared that the United States controls the Strait of Hormuz, claiming American forces have cleared Iranian mines, protected nearly 1,500 commercial vessels and prevented Tehran from exporting oil through the strategic waterway. In a statement citing the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the White House said American forces were keeping global energy supplies moving while denying Iran revenue that Washington says could be used to threaten international commerce. The assertions were presented by the administration as evidence supporting President Donald Trump’s repeated statements that the US Navy had gained control over the strait. The White House release did not include a response from Iran. According to the administration, Iranian mines have been cleared
from international shipping lanes in the strait. It said nearly 1,500 commercial vessels had travelled through the waterway under US protection, carrying 750 million barrels of crude oil to international markets. The White House also claimed that Iran had exported no oil from its shores since an American blockade resumed in July. It said US forces had turned around 75 vessels that attempted to break the blockade. Gulf oil exports have recovered to about two-thirds of the levels recorded before the US operation and continue to rise, the statement said. “The only one that has control of the Strait of Hormuz right now is the United States Navy,” Trump said on August 10. “We have a blockade that’s been infallible. It’s a steel wall… We control the Strait, 100%,” he added. Trump has repeated the assertion several times during August. On Thursday, he said the United States had control of the strait while Iran was receiving nothing through it.
Diaspora is living bridge between India and Uzbekistan: PM Modi
Tashkent, Aug 30 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that the Indian diaspora is a living bridge between India and Uzbekistan as he was greeted by a large gathering of the Indian community in Tashkent during his bilateral visit to the Central Asian nation. "Overwhelmed by the warmth and affection of the Indian community in Tashkent. Our diaspora is a living bridge between India and Uzbekistan, strengthening the bonds of friendship between our nations," PM Modi said on Saturday on social media platform X. He also appreciated the Indian-Uzbek fusion cultural performances during the welcome, and said that it showcased a deep cultural connect. "A captivating fusion of Indian and Uzbek musical traditions! The Tabla blends beautifully with the Doira and Chang, showcasing the deep cultural connect between India and Uzbekistan," Prime Minister Modi said, sharing a glimpse of a Tabla performance on X. A few women from the Indian community also tied a rakhi to PM Modi's hand as he was greeting the Indian community members.
He also witnessed cultural performances by artists. PM Modi was seen intriguingly observing dance performances by children and shook their hands after the performance. Earlier, PM Modi visited the Yangi Uzbekistan Monument and said that it reflects the aspirations and progress of the Uzbek people. "Upon landing in Tashkent, went to lay a wreath at the Yangi Uzbekistan Monument with President Mirziyoyev. The Yangi Uzbekistan Monument reflects the aspirations and progress of the Uzbek people. Glad to begin my visit by coming here," he noted on X. PM Modi was accompanied by Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev as both leaders examined the artwork representing Uzbek culture and history at the Yangi Uzbekistan Park. PM Modi thanked President Mirziyoyev for the warm welcome at Tashkent airport as he began his two-day State Visit to the Central Asian nation. In a special gesture, Mirziyoyev travelled to the airport and received PM Modi, highlighting the friendship between both countries that has grown immensely over the last 12 years. "Landed in Tashkent to a warm welcome by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Grateful to him for the special gesture. This is my fourth visit to Uzbekistan, reflecting the depth and growing momentum of our bilateral relations," PM Modi said on X after landing in Tashkent.
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Nepal flash floods: Diaspora leader hails India’s swift response, blames China over information delay
India and UN discuss cooperation in peacekeeping operations, achieving SDGs
Washington/Kathmandu, Aug 27 (IANS) As the devastating flash floods in Nepal left hundreds dead and over 800 people still missing, Nepali diaspora community leader Ojha Hari on Thursday thanked the Indian government for its swift response, invoking the “roti-beti ka rishta” - a term widely used to describe the deep and multifaceted ties between India and Nepal. Lauding India’s prompt assistance to people in the affected areas, Ojha Hari told IANS that the floods had caused widespread destruction across Nepal. “Our hydropower stations, the riverside dams, have all been destroyed. Schools, buildings, hospitals, hydropower stations, offices — everything has been destroyed. If you look at the videos, the entire villages are empty. In this terrible situation, it will probably take a long time for Nepal to recover. A lot of resources have been lost. I would like to thank the Indian government and its commitment to the roti-beti ka rishta,” said Ojha. He also praised the speed with which the Indian assistance reached Nepal, saying relief material had already been dispatched to the affected areas.
“It was very quick. It already reached the people by today. I guess yesterday it reached the airport, and this morning I was seeing the news that it has already sent to the area...” he added. Calling for greater support from the international community, Ojha said the scale of destruction had left Nepal facing enormous losses and expressed particular gratitude to India for quickly sending relief supplies. "In this time, we need support from all over the globe, because I think, as per the information, more than 15 per cent of the hydropower stations, the total supply of the stations of Nepal, are broken down, and I think more than millions, billions of dollars of money we have lost in this flood. So, definitely, without the support and support of the international community, I don't think we can recover from these big losses. And especially I would like to thank the Indian government, who did help us by sending so many supplies..." he stated. Ojha Hari also criticised the lack of timely information from China, where the situation originated, saying the failure to share prompt information prevented many people in Nepal from evacuating and contributed to the devastating impact. The massive flood, originating in the Tibetan region of China, swept through the transboundary Bhote Koshi River, leaving a trail of destruction in Nepal.
Nepal FM flags Himalayan melting as shared threat
New Delhi, Aug 27 (IANS) Tons of snow melting in the Himalayas create a deluge that eventually flows to the sea, making Nepal, India and other neighbouring countries vulnerable to sudden gushes of water, warned Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal at the NDTV World Anviksha Summit in Kathmandu on Thursday. “Whatever melts in the Himalayas rises in the sea,” he said, underscoring the ecological fragility of the region and the shared vulnerability of neighbouring countries to climate change and environmental disasters. He observed that as conditions change, vulnerability increases, potentially affecting freshwater availability for two billion people in the region. Calling it a “civilisational threat”,
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Khanal stressed the importance of collective action. “It’s important how we come together and act,” he said, implying a redefinition of India-Nepal relations, moving beyond traditional cultural and religious ties to embrace ecological cooperation. “Nepal and India have always talked about our relations in terms of Roti-Beti, Sita-Ram. Religion and civilisational links have always played a big role in our ties. But we have to reframe our relationship in ecological terms,” he argued, emphasising that the future of bilateral bonds must be reframed in ecological terms given mounting environmental challenges. Khanal’s remarks came in the wake of widespread death and destruction reported from Nepal as flash floods in the Bhote Koshi River, originating in Tibet, inundated several parts of the country. Torrents of water from Tibet surged into Nepal, sweeping away bridges, damaging hydropower plants and inundating villages.
New Delhi, Aug 27 (IANS) India and the United Nations (UN) on Thursday held discussions on cooperation in peacekeeping operations, climate change, disaster risk reduction, reform of the UN, managing the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and achieving Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs). The discussions were held during a meeting between Secretary (West), Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Sibi George and United Nations Deputy SecretaryGeneral Amina J Mohammed. "Secretary (West) Sibi George met Deputy Secretary General of UN, Ms. Amina J Mohammed, and held wide ranging discussions on India-United Nations cooperation and collaboration to achieve SDG goals, manage the transformational impact of AI, peacekeeping operations, climate change, disaster risk reduction and reform of the UN," MEA
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spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X. Mohammed arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday for a three-day official visit to India. Ahead of her arrival, UN Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said that she will be meeting senior government officials in India to discuss UN-Indian cooperation and India's engagement in advancing sustainable development goals. The Deputy Secretary General will also meet students at the Indian Institute of Technology to discuss opportunities and challenges to leverage digital innovation in support of the SDGs.
UN, Red Cross heads warn autonomous weapons poised to cross ‘moral red line’, call for regulations
United Nations, Aug 25 (IANS) The Heads of the UN and the International Red Cross warned on Tuesday that autonomous weapons are poised to cross a "moral red line" and called for international laws to regulate them. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and International Red Cross President Mirjana Spoljaric sounded the alarm on the imminent danger from autonomous weapons, the robotic arms that can make targeting decisions on their own without human control or input. "Autonomous weapon systems are not part of a distant future -- a
race towards greater autonomy in weapons systems is already well underway," they said in a joint statement. "We are now dangerously close to crossing a moral red line: the autonomous targeting of humans by machines," they warned. "A failure to act quickly and decisively will cost lives," they said, demanding that "negotiations must begin now to urgently adopt a legally binding instrument to regulate autonomous weapon systems with clear prohibitions and restrictions". Their warning came a day after media reports that Russia had deployed autonomous drones against Ukraine and China was developing robot soldiers. The New York Times reported that a drone navigating targeting with "an experimental artificial intelligence system, not a human pilot" killed three civilians in
Zaporizhzhia last month, marking a dangerous milestone in robotic warfare. And a Chinese engineer Yang Kunwith humanoid robot company 'AG BOT' told CBS News that the eventual goal was developing robot soldiers and it could happen in five to ten years. The UN and Red Cross leaders noted, "Scientists and engineers developing these systems have themselves raised the alarm." "When the architects of this technology are calling for limits, States cannot afford to remain passive," they said. Guterres and Spoljaric recalled that three years ago, they asked countries to "establish specific prohibitions and restrictions on autonomous weapon systems". And now the world is on the brink of an existential threat from the robotic weapons, they said, underlining the need for regulations.
UNSC should act immediately to mitigate humanitarian fallout of conflicts: India
United Nations, Aug 26 (IANS) With conflicts creating one of the gravest threats to food security, India has said that the Security Council's immediate priority should be to act to mitigate the humanitarian fallout of conflicts. "Today’s conflicts increasingly generate ripple effects far beyond the immediate theatre of hostilities", India's Permanent Representative P Harish said on Tuesday. "Disruptions to energy markets,
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fertiliser supplies, maritime transport, humanitarian logistics and agricultural trade have demonstrated how regional conflicts can threaten food security across the world", he said. Developing countries that are highly import-dependent face a disproportionate impact from the disruptions, he said at a Council open debate on "Food Under Fire: The Security Council's Role in Mitigating Global and Local Food Crises". "The Council's immediate priority should be to mitigate the humanitarian consequences of conflict. This requires facilitating safe, rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access, supporting de-confliction arrangements", he said. The Council should also ensure that its actions, like imposing
sanctions, "do not inadvertently impede humanitarian assistance or legitimate food and agricultural trade", he said. But ultimately, he said, "building resilient, food-secure societies remains primarily the responsibility of national governments, supported by the UN development system and the Rome-based agencies," rather than the Council's. Harish cited India's efforts to achieve food security through its own investments in the sector, which has also made it a contributor to global food security. "The National Food Security Act provides a statutory entitlement to subsidised food grains [and] direct benefit transfers to over 110 million farming households under the PM-KISAN [programme]
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WORLD NEWS
Indian-American leader welcomes RSS chief’s US visit, Colombia quake death toll rises says it offers opportunity for dialogue over ‘Sikh issues’ to 132, over 570 injured
Washington, Aug 26 (IANS) Sikh American leader Jasdip Singh Jassee has welcomed RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s high-profile visit to the United States, saying it offers an opportunity to explain the organisation’s mission and address concerns among minority communities through dialogue. Jassee described the visit as unusually prominent and said Bhagwat’s engagements with the
Indian American community had drawn considerable attention. “In my memory, I don't ever recollect that Mohan Bhagwatji made such a high visual, this prominent visit to US before,” Jassee told IANS. “His visit is being seen as a very high profile visit. He's going to be doing a big meeting with the community at Madison Square Garden and the other events he's participating in,” he said. Jassee said the visit also reflected America’s commitment to free expression, including for organisations whose views may face opposition from some groups. “RSS is a very important organization from India and this also shows that the freedom of
speech that America has, that it welcomes everyone despite differences they might have with RSS views,” he said. Jassee acknowledged that some groups and individuals in the United States hold unfavourable views about the RSS. He said Bhagwat should use the visit to respond to those concerns and explain the organisation’s objectives directly to Americans. “There are certain pockets in US who don't agree with RSS ideology or who have negative views of RSS,” he said. “And I would expect that Mohan Bhagwatji during his visit clarifies all that and get the perception out and really show American people what RSS is about, what their real mission and vision is,” he added.
India, Seychelles examine ways to implement MoU on capacity building agriculture research
New Delhi, Aug 25 (IANS) A delegation led by Wallace Cosgrow, Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Blue Economy of Seychelles, met with M.L. Jat, Indian Council of Agricultural Research Director General, in New Delhi, the High Commission of India in Victoria said. "A delegation led by Wallace Cosgrow, Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Blue Economy, met with M.L. Jat, ICAR Director General, in New Delhi yesterday. The two sides examined ways to implement the MoU signed between the government of Seychelles and ICAR on capacity
building and research in agriculture and meat, poultry and pork sectors," the High Commission said on social media platform X. "The MoU was signed during the State Visit of PM Narendra Modi to Seychelles in June 2026. ICAR reaffirmed India's commitment to share expertise and scientific strengths to support Seychelles' agriculture sector. The visit and meetings deepen agricooperation between the two nations," it added. Last week, India handed over specialised calibrated tools and repaired electronic units to Seychelles, strengthening defence and maritime cooperation, the High Commission said. "Strengthening India-Seychelles Defence and Maritime Security Cooperation. Three repaired Dornier Main Electronic Units
(MEUs), 18 sets of calibrated specialised aircraft tools, 50 safety helmets and seamanship ropes were handed over by Defence Adviser Captain Shravan Sareen to Major General Michael Rosette, Chief of Defence Forces of the Seychelles Defence Forces," the High Commission said on X. According to the Indian mission, the items were repaired/ calibrated at Indian Naval facilities free of cost and will enable in-house testing and faster repairs for the Dornier fleet that is used by the Seychelles Air Force for Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance, CASEVAC (Casualty Evacuation), and SAR (Search and Rescue). "The safety and seamanship gear will elevate personnel safety and operational readiness of the Seychelles Coast Guard," the High Commission added.
Bogota, Aug 11 (IANS) The death toll from a magnitude-7.4 earthquake that struck western Colombia on Monday has risen to 132, with more than 570 others injured, the Colombian government said in its latest update. Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella said in Bogota that the quake damaged 1,575 homes and infrastructure at six airports, where commercial flight operations have been suspended, reports Xinhua news agency. The Colombian government earlier Monday declared a state of national disaster to respond to the impact of the earthquake. According to the Colombian Geological Service, the quake struck at 7:34 a.m. local time in western Colombia. Its epicenter was near San Jose del Palmar, in the department of Choco, at a depth of 96 km. The association said it is maintaining close contact with the capitals of affected departments and communicating with local mayors and their teams to follow the latest developments, assess damage and identify the most urgent relief needs. Leaders across the world express solidarity and support for the
Mohan Bhagwat arrives in US for unity event
India, Thailand strengthen defence cooperation between air forces with reciprocal exchange visit
New Delhi, Aug 25 (IANS) A team from the Royal Thai Air Force visited India from August 16-23 while an Indian Air Force (IAF) team visited Thailand as part of the reciprocal exchange visit, strengthening defence cooperation between the two countries, the Indian Air Force (IAF) said on Tuesday. "The Royal Thai Air Force team visited India from August 16-23, while an IAF team visited Thailand as part of the reciprocal Exchange Visit. The engagement strengthened professional camaraderie, mutual
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understanding and defence cooperation between the two Air Forces," the IAF said on social media platform X. Last week, an Indian Army contingent left for Thailand, where it is participating in the 15th edition of the India-Thailand Joint Military Exercise MAITREEXV, being held from August 18 to 31 at Vibhavadi Rangsit Camp in Surat Thani. The bilateral military exercise is aimed at strengthening defence cooperation between India and Thailand and enhancing the ability of the two armies to conduct joint operations in challenging environments. The Indian Army and Royal Thai Army contingents participating in the exercise will comprise 85 personnel each. The Indian contingent will be
represented primarily by troops from the 9 Gorkha Rifles, while the Royal Thai Army contingent will comprise personnel from the 3rd Battalion of 25th Infantry Brigade's 5th Division. The exercise will focus on company-level joint training for operations in jungle and semiurban terrain. The training is designed to enhance the combined capabilities of the two forces in conducting joint counterinsurgency and counter-terrorist operations in jungle and semiurban environments under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. The exercise will include a range of training activities, including field exercises, combat discussions, lectures and demonstrations.
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people of Colombia. French President Immannuel Macron stated that Colombia can count on France’s friendship and support and expressed solidarity. "In the face of the terrible earthquake that has struck Colombia, I extend, on behalf of France, my most sincere thoughts to the Colombian people. I think of the victims, their families, the injured, and all those who have been affected by this disaster. Our solidarity also goes to the rescue teams and all those who are working, with courage, to assist the affected populations. In this ordeal, Colombia can count on our friendship and our support," Macron wrote on X. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed solidarity and support and called on people around the world to support the affected people. "Terrible news about the earthquake in western Colombia, which also affected neighbouring Ecuador. As of now, at least 25 people have been reported dead, and there are people trapped under the rubble. Our condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and to everyone affected. Any loss of life is tragic. We stand in full support and solidarity with the people of Colombia and everyone who has been affected by this disaster. We call on everyone around the world who can support the affected people and countries right now to step up and help," Zelensky stated on X.
Washington, Aug 25 (IANS) Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat has arrived in the United States to attend a major Hindu gathering in New York City that will promote unity, civic responsibility and global harmony. Bhagwat was received by members of the Universal Oneness Celebration team ahead of the August 29 event, according to the organisers. Photographs released by the group showed the RSS Chief being welcomed with a traditional ceremony. "The world is one family," the Universal Oneness Celebration said while announcing Bhagwat's arrival. The gathering will urge participants to look beyond
divisions, recognise the bonds connecting humanity and embrace mutual respect, harmony and oneness, the organisers said. The Universal Oneness Celebration is being presented by American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue (AHEAD) Forum, in association with hundreds of cultural, spiritual, service, faith and community organisations from across the United States. Organisers described it as one of the largest and most diverse Hindu community gatherings held in the country. It will coincide with celebrations of the Hindu festival of Raksha Bandhan. Bhagwat, who has served as the RSS Sarsanghchalak (Chief) since 2009, will deliver an address expected to draw attention in India and the United States. The organisers said he rarely speaks at large public events in America. The programme will also feature faith-based speakers and cultural presentations linked to the central theme of the gathering.
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Sept 1-15, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 2
IRAN WAR
Iran’s president says peace MoU Iran urges countries not to join US ‘illegal’ sanctions He called on the United States to or recognising the situations or with US in interests of Tehran build trust, speak respectfully, impacts resulting from "these
Tehran, Aug 30 (IANS) Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said that the peace memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between Iran and the United States is in the interests of the country, West Asia and the world. During a ceremony in the Iranian capital Tehran, he stressed that with the MoU's implementation, the United States and Israel will not be able to cause chaos, aggression and insecurity in the region, and regional states will be able to pursue the path of stability and development, according to a statement published on the website of his office. Pezeshkian highlighted the need for foiling the "enemies' sinister plots" through promoting unity and solidarity among Muslim states, reports Xinhua news agency. He said that Iran has never been the party to start a war, adding, "We do not welcome war, but will stand strongly against any
aggressor, and no power can force a nation that is standing with all its might and will into surrender." Also on Saturday, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi warned in a social media post that "major" efforts are underway to manipulate global energy markets for personal gains and prolong the US war against Iran. Separately, Iran's Islamic Revolution Guard Corps announced on the same day that the country's security forces have dealt a "decisive" blow to a "terrorist" team affiliated with the United States and Israel in southeastern Sistan and Baluchestan province, killing one of its members and arresting six others. On February 28, Israel and the United States launched joint attacks on Tehran and other Iranian cities. Iran responded with waves of missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and US bases and assets in the region, and tightened its grip on the Strait of Hormuz. On June 18, the United States and Iran signed the MoU on ending the war in the region on all fronts. Under the MoU, they were scheduled to hold negotiations within a period of 60 days, which ended on August 17, to reach a final agreement, but the talks' fate remains unclear following the escalation between the two countries last month.
Qatar says contacts ongoing to revive US-Iran talks
Doha, Aug 25 (IANS) Qatar said Tuesday that contacts with the United States and Iran are continuing in an effort to bring the two sides back to negotiations. "Our officials are on the phone on a daily basis trying to workshop ideas, workshop ways of getting back to the negotiations," Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed Al Ansari said at a weekly media briefing. On the Strait of Hormuz, Al Ansari urged dialogue and diplomacy, saying the priority is "to go back to the freedom of navigation and to the opening of the Strait of Hormuz the way it was before the war." Regarding the latest US economic sanctions against Iran, Al Ansari called them unilateral and reiterated that Qatar prioritises a diplomatic settlement, Xinhua News Agency reported. Meanwhile, Foreign Ministry
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spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said on Monday that Iran will not let the war end based on conditions set by the "aggressive" parties. "We have definitely not been the party to start the war, but we will not let the war's end be based on the aggressive parties' conditions," Baghaei told a weekly press conference in Tehran. He said that Iran remained determined to defend its territory and would not "compromise with the aggressive parties" or surrender to their "excessive demands." Baghaei dismissed US claims that the Strait of Hormuz was open and that millions of barrels of oil were passing through it each day, describing them as part of "psychological and media warfare". He also slammed Washington's newly announced anti-Iran economic operation, saying Tehran would use all its "multilateral capacities" to counter US sanctions, which he described as a blow to free trade and national sovereignty. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Monday announced a new wave of sanctions to further isolate Iran, warning of what he called "an economic D-Day."
Tehran, Aug 28 (IANS) The Iranian Foreign Ministry on Friday urged countries not to join Washington's unilateral sanctions against Iran. In a statement, the ministry condemned US sanctions policies against Iran, saying they were "in violation of the UN Charter, international humanitarian law and human rights." The ministry accused the United States of using the dollar as a tool to intimidate other countries into following "interventionist" policies against Tehran. It called on all countries to refrain from implementing the sanctions
illegal actions." Earlier in the day, Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said that diplomacy with the United States can get back on track if Washington realises that pressure against Tehran does not work, Xinhua News Agency reported. He made the remarks in a post on X, referring to his meeting on Thursday with Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani in Tehran, during which the two sides held "creative discussions." Araghchi said, "Putting diplomacy back on track isn't impossible. It hinges on US understanding of one simple fact: pressure doesn't work."
acknowledge Iran's rights, and uphold its commitments toward the country. Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump said the United States would launch "the most crushing economic operation ever" against Iran, describing it as an "economic warfare and isolation on an unprecedented scale." US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent later announced a wave of new sanctions aimed at further isolating Iran. On June 18, the United States and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on ending the war in the region. Under the MoU, the two sides were scheduled to hold negotiations within 60 days, ending on Aug.
UN chief calls on US, Iran to resume negotiations
United Nations, Aug 29 (IANS) UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on the United States and Iran to resume negotiations to end their conflict through diplomacy, his spokesman said. Asked about the secretarygeneral's view on the stalled talks between the United States and Iran six months into the war, Stephane Dujarric, the spokesman, said: "This is a sad marker of six months of this ongoing conflict. We again stress that the only solution to this is a diplomatic solution. And we urge
both the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran to engage in meaningful negotiations." The United Nations is very supportive of the mediation efforts of Qatar, Pakistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, Dujarric said, adding that the secretarygeneral has been very much staying in touch with them, Xinhua news agency reported. What is clear and what continues to be concerning for the secretary-general is the devastating humanitarian and economic consequences of this conflict, including the global economic impact on food supplies, humanitarian goods that cannot go in, fertilizers that have been limited, the rise in the price of energy, he said. The secretary-general's personal envoy for this conflict, Jean
Arnault, remains available and in contact to assist the parties and mediators in reaching a durable solution, said the spokesman. The United States and Israel launched military attacks against Iran on Feb. 28. In retaliation, Iran attacked Israel and US military bases in the Gulf. The Strait of Hormuz, a major maritime chokepoint for global energy trade, was largely blocked, severely disrupting the flow of oil and other commodities. On June 18, the United States and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding, under which the two countries were scheduled to hold negotiations within 60 days to reach a final agreement. However, the fate of the talks remains unclear following renewed escalation between the two countries.
Iranian President says Tehran ready to establish joint security arrangements with neighbours
Tehran, Aug 27 (IANS) Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday expressed his country's readiness to establish joint security arrangements with neighbouring states. Pezeshkian said Iran is reaching out to its neighbours to develop such arrangements "not from a position of weakness, but based on its war experience," according to a statement published on the website of his office. "We know what war is, and we know that when missiles and bombs land, they do not differentiate between the dreams of an Iranian mother and an Arab mother," he told the 40th International Conference on
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Islamic Unity in Tehran, Xinhua News Agency reported. He proposed that Muslim states conclude a mutual security and non-aggression treaty among themselves, stressing that Islamic countries must commit to respecting each other's territorial integrity, refraining from using their soil, airspace, and facilities to invade another Muslim state, and avoiding supporting efforts to destabilise or disintegrate one another. Pezeshkian also called on Muslim states to cooperate in managing regional security and form joint working groups to promote cooperation in areas including infrastructure, trade, investment and clean energy. The 40th International Conference on Islamic Unity kicked off on Thursday and will continue until Sunday. Last week, Pezeshkian said that it is better to end the war now as Iran is in a position of "power and
dignity." Pezeshkian made the remarks at the 31st General Assembly of the Islamic Association of the Iranian Medical Society in the capital Tehran, where he stressed that the war with the United States must end at some point, according to a statement published on his office's website. "It is better that we end the war today when we are in a position of power and dignity, and the entire world acknowledges our victory and emphasises that the United States, in violation of all (international) regulations, has attacked our schools, hospitals, and infrastructure, and is hated in the world," he said. Pezeshkian described the peace memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between Iran and the United States in June as "honourable and valuable," stressing that not a single provision of the MoU suggests surrender and that all obligations fall on the other party.
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Sept 1-15, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 2
INDIA NEWS
NATIONAL NEWS
Driver in custody, pedestrian Australia criticises Israel’s decision to clear critical after hit-and-run in Sydney
Sydney, Aug 23 (IANS) A driver was arrested after allegedly running from the scene of a hitand-run in Sydney's northwest Sunday afternoon, police in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW) said. Emergency services were called to Ferndale Avenue, Carlingford, about 22 km northwest of the Sydney central business district at about 12:30 p.m. local time after reports that a pedestrian had been hit by a car, NSW police said in a statement. Officers found that a van had hit a pedestrian before the driver of the van allegedly ran from the scene on foot, NSW police said. The pedestrian, a 34-year-old man, was trapped under the vehicle, and emergency services worked to free him before NSW ambulance paramedics treated him at the scene, reports Xinhua news agency. He was taken to hospital in a critical condition for further treatment, police said. Following a search of nearby bushland, police arrested the alleged driver, a 29-year-old man, before taking him to a police station. Police have established a crime scene and commenced an investigation into the incident.
Earlier on August 19, three people died, and one other was hospitalised in separate traffic collisions within a six-hour span in the Australian state of Queensland. The Queensland Police Service (QPS) said in a statement on Thursday that a 27-year-old man died when his vehicle left the road and struck a tree in the southern suburbs of Brisbane around 7:35 p.m. local time on Wednesday night. Earlier on Wednesday, the QPS said a 63-year-old woman was killed shortly after 2 p.m. in a three-vehicle crash in the small town of Wamuran, 50 km north of Brisbane. Police said that the woman was one of two people standing outside their parked vehicles when she and the vehicles were struck by a third car. She died at the scene. A 22-yearold man was assisting police with inquiries into the incident. Another woman, aged 72, died when the vehicle she was driving collided head-on with a utility in the nearby town of Armstrong Creek around 1:55 p.m, police said. The driver of the utility, a 54-year-old woman, was transported to a Brisbane hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. According to the latest official data, as of Wednesday, 202 people had died in incidents on Queensland roads so far in 2026, up from 187 at the same point in both 2025 and 2024.
South Australia reports 2nd suspected mammal bird flu case in seal
Canberra, Aug 24 (IANS) South Australian authorities on Monday reported a second suspected case of H5N1 bird flu in a seal, one day after the state reported Australia's first case in a mammal. South Australia's Department of Primary Industries and Regions said on Monday that the longnosed fur seal was found at the Pages Conservation Park, a protected area consisting of the North Page and South Page islands located about 18 km off the state's south coast. The department said that samples have been sent to the Australian Center for Disease Preparedness for confirmatory testing. It comes after the federal government on Sunday announced that Australia's first confirmed case of the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza strain in a mammal had been confirmed in a long-nosed fur seal found dead in mainland South Australia on Wednesday,
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reports Xinhua news agency. South Australian Minister for Climate, Environment and Water Emily Bourke said that the two cases were incredibly concerning. The state government on Thursday said that over 1,000 birds had been found dead in suspected H5N1 mass mortality events on three islands, including North Page and South Page. "We've seen devastation in seals around the world when it comes to bird flu," Bourke told Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) radio on Monday. According to the National Parks and Wildlife Service, the Page islands are home to one of three large colonies of endangered Australian sea lions in South Australia. The Invasive Species Council has warned that the H5N1 outbreak could be an extinctionlevel event for the species. Bourke said that the strain circulating in South Australia potentially arrived in the state from Heard Island, a remote subAntarctic Australian territory. The Australian Antarctic Program said in June that around 13,000 of the estimated 17,000 elephant seal pups on Heard Island had died from H5N1 avian influenza.
soldiers over death of aid worker
Canberra, Aug 20 (IANS) Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong said on Thursday that Australia is "outraged" over Israel's decision to clear military personnel of criminal wrongdoing in a 2024 airstrike that killed an Australian aid worker in Gaza.
Australian Zomi Frankcom was one of seven people who were killed when the World Central Kitchen convoy they were travelling in to deliver food in Gaza was targeted by an Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) airstrike on April 1, 2024. The IDF said on Wednesday that it had completed a review of the incident and concluded that there were serious failures that led soldiers to falsely assess that the vehicles contained Hamas operatives, but that the decisions of commanders did not raise reasonable suspicion of criminal misconduct. Responding on Thursday, Wong said in a statement that
the decision fell short of the accountability Australia expects, reports Xinhua news agency. "Australia is outraged the Israeli government has decided not to pursue criminal proceedings against those responsible for killing Zomi Frankcom and her World Central Kitchen colleagues," she said. She said it was "especially insulting" to Frankcom's loved ones, humanitarians and all Australians that the decision was handed down on World Humanitarian Day. "The Australian government will not stop pressing Israel for justice for Zomi and her colleagues," she said.
India, Australia reaffirm maritime partnership, discuss strengthening naval engagement
Canberra, Aug 28 (IANS) India and Australia on Friday reaffirmed their strong maritime partnership and discussed further strengthening cooperation between the navies of the two nations. The discussions were held during a meeting between India's High Commissioner to Australia, Nagesh Singh and Australia's Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Matthew Paul Buckley. It was the first meeting between the two officials after Vice Admiral Buckley assumed the leadership
of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) on July 7, succeeding Vice Admiral Mark Hammond. "High Commissioner of India Nagesh Singh paid a courtesy call on Vice Admiral Matthew Buckley AM CSC RAN, Chief of Navy, Royal Australian Navy, on his assuming the leadership of the RAN," the Indian High Commission in Australia posted on X. "The meeting reaffirmed the strong India-Australia maritime partnership and discussed further strengthening cooperation and engagement between the Indian Navy and Australian Navy," it added. Earlier this month, the Indian and Australian navies held discussions on strengthening operational interoperability and expanding bilateral cooperation in capability building and training, with a focus on further deepening maritime
collaboration between the two countries. The discussions were held during the 17th Navy-to-Navy Staff talks between the Indian Navy and the Royal Australian Navy in Sydney from August 11-12. In a post on X, the Indian Navy spokesperson said: "The 17th Indian Navy–Royal Australian Navy Navy-to-Navy Staff Talks were held in Sydney from 11-12 Aug 26, co-chaired by RAdm Sachin Reuben Sequeira, ACNS (FCI), and RAdm Christopher Smith, Commander Australian Fleet. Building on the strong India-Australia maritime partnership, discussions focused on enhancing operational interoperability, increasing the complexity of bilateral exercises, and advancing cooperation in capability building and training."
Indian envoy Nagesh Singh discusses bilateral ties with ex-Australian PM Scott Morrison
Canberra, Aug 25 (IANS) India's High Commissioner to Australia Nagesh Singh met former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Tuesday and discussed strong bilateral ties. During the meeting, Morrison recalled his warm and close friendship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a post on X, the Indian High Commission in Australia stated, "High Commissioner of India Nagesh Singh met former Australian Prime Minister Hon. Scott Morrison AC. Recalling his
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warm and close friendship with Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, they reflected on the strong India–Australia partnership and the enduring ties between the two countries." During his three-day visit to Australia in July, PM Modi met Scott Morrison in Melbourne and discussed the remarkable progress achieved under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Sharing details of the meeting on X, PM Modi said, "Always good to catch up with Mr Scott Morrison, former Prime Minister of Australia. We had a great conversation on the IndiaAustralia friendship." The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the two leaders reviewed the significant advancement in bilateral relations and fondly recalled the milestones
achieved during Morrison's tenure that continue to deepen cooperation between the two countries. In a post on X, the MEA said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi met former Prime Minister of Australia, Mr Scott Morrison, in Melbourne today. The two leaders discussed the significant progress made in the India–Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. They warmly recalled significant strides made in India-Australia relations during Mr Morrison's tenure that continue to strengthen the bonds between the people of India and Australia." Following the meeting, Morrison also shared his thoughts on social media, expressing confidence that India-Australia relations would continue to reach greater heights in the future.
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Sept 1-15, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 2
From the editor’s desk
FairPoint: New political game of likes and views to sway Gen Z for the right EVM click
Celebrating those who serve The real value of the Multicultural Queensland Awards lies not simply in recognising individual achievements, but in shining a light on the thousands of volunteers and community organisations whose quiet work strengthens the social fabric of Queensland. The 2026 awards, presented at the Logan Entertainment Centre as Queensland's Multicultural Month celebrations drew to a close, offer an important reminder that multiculturalism is sustained not only by government policies but by people who give their time, energy and skills to others. From community leadership and entrepreneurship to social cohesion, women's economic empowerment and grassroots initiatives, the breadth of this year's awards demonstrates the many ways in which people contribute to a stronger Queensland. Their work may differ in nature, but it shares a common purpose: helping people connect, participate and feel that they belong. Volunteering is often an invisible force in Australian society. Community festivals do not organise themselves. New migrants do not always find their way through unfamiliar systems without assistance. Vulnerable people cannot always navigate challenges alone. Sporting clubs, cultural associations, charitable organisations and neighbourhood groups depend heavily on people willing to step forward without expecting anything in return. Yet this contribution can easily be overlooked. That is why awards such as the Multicultural Queensland Awards are important. Recognition gives visibility to work that frequently takes place behind the scenes. It tells volunteers that their contribution matters and, equally importantly, shows the wider community what can be achieved when people take responsibility for one another. The significance is particularly strong in a multicultural society. Queensland is home to people with roots in communities across the world. Such diversity is a remarkable strength, but diversity by itself does not guarantee social cohesion. Communities need opportunities to interact, understand one another and work towards common goals. Volunteers are often the people who create those opportunities. Their contribution extends well beyond cultural celebrations. They help newcomers settle, support older Australians, mentor young people,
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promote employment and entrepreneurship, assist people facing hardship and encourage participation in civic life. During times of crisis, community leaders and volunteers can become trusted sources of information and reassurance, particularly for people who may face language or cultural barriers. This work also has an important intergenerational dimension. Young Australians need examples of leadership that are based not merely on achievement or status but on service. When young people see volunteers being recognised for helping others, they learn that leadership can mean making a difference in everyday life. The range of recipients at this year's awards is therefore particularly encouraging. Recognition for community service, entrepreneurship, women's economic empowerment, social cohesion, grassroots organisations and lifetime achievement shows that there is no single definition of community contribution. A person can strengthen Queensland by helping migrants find their feet. Another can create employment opportunities. Someone else can use sport to bring communities together, support the wellbeing of older people or mentor the next generation. Each contribution adds another thread to the social fabric. There is also an important message here about multiculturalism itself. Successful multiculturalism should not be measured only by how many cultures are represented in a community. It should be measured by how effectively people from those cultures participate in the shared life of the nation. That requires belonging as well as diversity. Community organisations are often best placed to build that sense of belonging because they understand the realities experienced by different communities. They can act as bridges between governments and residents, between established Australians and newcomers, and between generations. The Multicultural Queensland Awards recognise that bridgebuilding. They also demonstrate that community leadership is not confined to prominent institutions or people with formal positions. Much of it begins with ordinary decisions: volunteering a few hours, helping a neighbour, mentoring a young person, organising an event or standing beside a community during a difficult period.
Deepika Bhan
I
t is now clear that the opposition parties have started preparations for the 2027-29 election period, which includes elections in about seven states and, ultimately, the Lok Sabha polls. The stakes are very high, and the fight is crucial for both the Opposition and the ruling coalition. For the Opposition, it is about survival and cutting the ruling dispensation to size. For the coalition in power, it is about maintaining continuity and demonstrating that its strategy has been right. The fight has begun, and this time the rules have changed. It is no longer just about rallies, corner meetings, distributing pamphlets, writing slogans on walls or erecting banners. The election game has moved to a different level. It is now more about building narratives and creating a wave on social media. In fact, the election fight has moved from street campaigning to something resembling a gaming level. With social media reach widening by the day, political parties are refocusing their electoral strategies. India has over 50 crore active social media users, while newer generations have grown up with mobile phones with an Internet connection. Gen Z's reach through platforms such as Instagram, Meta and X is huge. It is this generation -- those born roughly between 1997 and 2012 -- that is now under the lens of political parties and their strategists. The entire political spectrum, the ruling side as well as the Opposition, is focusing on Gen Z and Gen Alpha. The competition has begun not just between the Opposition and the ruling side; it has also erupted within the Opposition camp. For some time now, the opposition parties, even while trying to present a united face, have been trying to outwit each other and emerge as the lead face to take on the BJP-led government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
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The fight within has become interesting, with Congress, Aam Aadmi Party, Samajwadi Party and others trying to race ahead with strategies to lure younger generations. A big section of older generations has consistently voted for the Modi-led Centre and the BJP in a majority of states. With a large section of this generation presumed to be leaning towards one side, the focus has shifted to Gen Z and Gen Alpha, who have not directly experienced the UPAera governments or the AAP government in Delhi. Most have only heard stories about the past regimes and have witnessed the BJP in power for the past 12 years. Hence, the centre of attention is the younger generation. The Opposition is especially focused on Gen Z and Gen Alpha in the hope of creating a sphere of influence that might impress youngsters enough to press the EVM button in its favour. It is this EVM button press which has become the fulcrum of the entire exercise that political parties are going through now. Each one has strong media teams and is hiring influencers to generate and spread a particular narrative. The activism of Rahul Gandhi, the sudden emergence of the AAPbacked CJP, and the Congress, SP, BJP and others overhauling their social media departments are indicators of the extent to which parties are prepared to go to create the right image across various platforms. The aim is to generate storms on social media and remain in the public view. This is now fully visible across social media handles, with parties trying everything under the sun to garner maximum views. The recently held CJP protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi is perhaps the finest example of this strategy. Termed a sidekick of Arvind Kejriwal’s AAP, the Cockroach Janata Party activists and supporters did everything -- from speeches to abuses, from dances to obscenity, and even violence against security forces. The aim was to storm the media
EDITORIAL
space and create a sensation, which they did successfully. However, it did not end with the protest. CJP activists are now creating social media reels by forcibly entering schools and trying to influence young minds. Under its ‘School Thik Karo’ campaign, CJP workers have been barging into classrooms in government schools in Maharashtra and Rajasthan to ‘expose’ poor infrastructure and administrative lapses. However, they faced public wrath in a Rajasthan village, where the team was first asked not to bother the villagers. When the CJP team still tried to barge into a school, the villagers threw them out. Questions are now being asked about the lack of CJP activism in non-BJP-ruled states. The party leaders are also being cornered over their lack of interest in the Jharkhand student protest movement. The CJP is increasingly being portrayed as biased and playing lop-sided politics. If the CJP is trying every means to stay in social media views, the Congress party is not staying behind. In what appears to be a direct competition for attention, Rahul Gandhi has been playing on the July 20 student protest violence case. On August 21, Gandhi held a sixhour sit-in protest outside a Delhi police station to register an FIR in the case of a 19-year-old student protester who allegedly suffered pellet-gun injuries during the July 20 march to Parliament. The protest quickly went viral on news television and social media. For much of Friday, Gandhi occupied a substantial share of the viewing space. It is this viewing space for which strategies are being drawn and redrawn by political parties and their supporting outlets. Recent reports said that the social media reach of Union ministers came up for discussion at a Cabinet meeting and ministers were told to step up efforts to ensure their messages reach a wider audience, particularly the youth. With every party reviewing and refocusing its social media activities, the competition is only going to get more interesting. But what needs to be watched is the kind of plot that is set and the narrative that follows. The country is definitely going to witness an intense fight, especially among opposition parties, to build a narrative that can impress Gen Z. The target is the 2027 elections and the big 2029 battle. And today's Gen Z could have a big say in deciding that fight. (Deepika Bhan can be contacted at deepika.b@ians.in)
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Sept 1-15, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 2
China funding, Pahalgam response puts UN special rapporteur under scrutiny: Report
Washington, Aug 29 (IANS) Questions are mounting over the independence of several UN special rapporteurs, with counterterrorism rapporteur Ben Saul facing particular scrutiny, a report has detailed. An independent mandateholder is expected to assess both terrorist acts and state responses with equal rigour. But undisclosed funding, a documented pattern of anti-Western and anti-Israel framing, and Saul’s public statements following the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack have raised serious questions about his impartiality, a report in the online magazine 'American Thinker' mentioned earlier this week. On April 22, 2025, Pakistanbacked terror group Lashkar-eTaiba gunned down 26 people, predominantly Hindu tourists, in a horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Survivors recounted how the attackers allegedly identified victims by religion, asking them about their faith or ordering them to recite the Islamic declaration of faith, with those unable to do so being shot, it noted.
“Seven months later, on November 24, 2025, Saul cosigned a joint OHCHR statement with more than a dozen other UN experts. While the statement opened by condemning the Pahalgam attack, its substance focused almost entirely on India’s response. It cited unverified reports and it characterised demolitions of properties linked to terror suspects as collective punishment, and described the blocking of social media accounts as disproportionate,” the report detailed. “What the statement did not do was engage with why those measures were taken: a massacre in which victims were separated by religion and executed, carried out by a Pakistan-based terror group with a documented record of cross-border attacks. Indian officials have pointed out that the properties demolished belonged to identified, proven militants, not uninvolved residents, and that the security response followed an attack explicitly designed to provoke communal violence,” Moroccan researcher and journalist, Fatima El Hashimi, wrote in 'American Thinker'. The report cited a May 2026 study by Geneva-based UN Watch, titled 'From Watchdogs to Ideologues', which examined 13 UN Special Procedures mandateholders and flagged “politicised
appointments, selective targeting of democracies and troubling funding arrangements.” With regard to Saul, it highlighted “one-sided criticism of Western powers and a documented silence on China’s own record”. Referring to the findings, the report noted that Saul’s office received $150,000 from China in 2024. UN Watch Executive Director Hillel Neuer, the 'American Thinker' report stated, had raised questions over his independence in an interview with Sky News Australia, asking how Saul could claim to be independent while his office accepted money from Beijing. “The funds went to Saul’s office rather than his personal accounts, but the report noted a lack of detailed public accounting. Crucially, Saul’s office has issued no statements condemning China’s mass detention of Uyghur Muslims — the same ‘counterterrorism’ framing that falls squarely within his mandate," Fatima El Hashimi wrote in 'American Thinker'. According to the report, UN Watch’s findings go beyond the China funding question, accusing Saul of whitewashing antisemitism, defending extremists and engaging in one-sided anti-Israel rhetoric that overlooks Israel’s legitimate security concerns.
Nepal President thanks India for ‘generous support’ after deadly flash floods
Kathmandu, Aug 29 (IANS) Nepal President Ramchandra Paudel on Saturday expressed gratitude to his Indian counterpart Droupadi Murmu for her concern and the support extended by the government of India following the devastating flash floods in Nepal that left hundreds dead and caused widespread destruction. “On behalf of the Government and the people of Nepal, I extend our deepest gratitude to Your Excellency Smt Droupadi Murmu for your kind concern and also for the generous support and solidarity extended by your government following the recent calamity in Nepal,” the Office of the President of Nepal posted on X. Paudel also conveyed condolences over the tragic loss of Indian
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lives in the aftermath of the catastrophic flood on Wednesday. “We also offer our heartfelt condolences and profound sympathy to the Government and the people of India for the tragic loss of Indian lives in the disaster of August 26, 2026," he stated. Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday stated that 149 Indian nationals crossed over safely into Nepal from China, while 320 people continue to remain missing or not contactable, in the wake of the deadly floods in Nepal. The death toll from the flash floods reached 616 on Saturday morning, while hundreds remain missing, local media reported, citing officials. The massive flood that struck Nepal's Rasuwa originated in the Tibetan region of China. It swept through the transboundary Bhote Koshi River, leaving a trail of destruction in the country. Following the devastating floods, President Murmu on Wednesday expressed solidarity with Nepal and reaffirmed New Delhi’s readiness to assist the Himalayan nation in its relief and rescue efforts. “I convey my deepest sympathies to Rt Hon President Mr.
Ramchandra Paudel and the people of Nepal on the devastation caused by the flash floods today. We express our solidarity with Nepal at this difficult hour. India stands ready to support the relief and rescue efforts of the Government of Nepal for those affected by this calamity,” President’s Secretariat posted on X. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday spoke with his Nepali counterpart Balendra Shah and offered condolences on the loss of lives due to the flash floods in the Himalayan nation. PM Modi also expressed India's readiness to provide all possible humanitarian assistance to Nepal. "Spoke to Prime Minister Balendra Shah and conveyed condolences on the loss of lives due to the floods in Nepal. The people of India stand in solidarity with their sisters and brothers in Nepal at this difficult time," PM Modi posted on X. "India is ready to provide all possible humanitarian assistance to Nepal. Our teams are coordinating closely on rescue and relief efforts," he added.
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SPOTLIGHT STORIES
PM Modi appreciates enthusiasm of Uzbek kids ahead of his Tashkent visit
Tashkent, Aug 29 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday appreciated the enthusiasm of kids from Uzbekistan who had expressed their excitement in a video ahead of his arrival in Tashkent. “As I am about to begin my Uzbekistan visit, I am very happy to see the enthusiasm of my young friends from Uzbekistan, beautifully expressed in this video. What makes it even more special is the fact that they did it in Hindi and they did it so well!” PM Modi stated on X, sharing the video of Uzbeki kids expressing their excitement. “Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, welcome to Tashkent. My name is Samandhar, and we are students of Tashkent. We are eagerly waiting for your arrival in Tashkent, Shri Narendra
Modi ji. We are waiting for you in Tashkent,” a young student from Uzbekistan said in Hindi. "Namaste Shri Narendra Modi ji, the land of Tashkent is calling you; we are eagerly waiting for the beautiful meeting. Modi ji, we are waiting for you in Tashkent,” a young Uzbek student said in the video message. Expressing her excitement as she got ready to welcome PM Modi, another student mentioned that they learn Hindi and noted that there is a lot of influence from Indian culture in the Central Asian country, Earlier in the day, PM Modi emplaned on a two-nation tour to Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. He expressed confidence that this visit will strengthen India's strategic partnerships in Central Asia. PM Modi is travelling to Tashkent on a two-day bilateral visit at the invitation of Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. In his departure statement, PM Modi said, "In recent years, India-Uzbekistan Strategic Partnership has seen significant advancement. I look forward to my discussions with President Mirziyoyev on further deepening our cooperation in trade and investment, digital connectivity, defence, energy, and on advancing our shared visions of Viksit Bharat and Yangi Uzbekistan."
Telangana, Mauritius explore collaboration in emerging technologies and education
Hyderabad, Aug 30 (IANS) Mauritius Minister for Public Service and Administrative Reforms Luchmanen Pethia met the Telangana Minister for IT and Industries Duddilla Sridhar Babu at the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Telangana Secretariat here. Both Ministers discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between Mauritius and Telangana across multiple sectors, a press statement from the state government said on Saturday. According to the statement, the discussions focused on public administration, tourism, information technology and ITenabled services (ITeS), emerging technologies, skill development and education. Pethia said Mauritius considered Telangana a trusted partner and expressed interest in greater collaboration in capacity building and modern administrative practices. He sought the Telangana government's support in strengthening the capabilities of Mauritius government employees through training programmes,
knowledge-sharing and exposure to best practices. The Mauritius Minister also expressed interest in establishing closer cooperation with the Marri Channa Reddy Human Resource Development Institute (MCRHRD), Young India Skills University and other educational and skill-development institutions in Telangana. Sridhar Babu said Telangana was ready to extend its cooperation to Mauritius across sectors and highlighted the importance the state government attaches to international partnerships and knowledge exchange. He added that Telangana had developed considerable expertise in areas such as information technology, emerging technologies, skills and public administration, which could provide opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation with Mauritius. Sridhar Babu also invited Pethia to participate in the Telangana Rising Global Summit 2026, scheduled to be organised by the state government on December 7 and 8. Industries Department Special Secretary Krishna Aditya and Information Technology, Electronics and Communications Joint Secretary Anudeep Durishetty, among others, were also present.
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INDIA NEWS
‘Made in India’ brand must be built through collective effort of athletes, corporates and youth: NITI Aayog
New Delhi, Aug 25 (IANS) The government has been focusing on sports goods and equipment manufacturing as a strategic growth driver, with a broader aim of strengthening domestic manufacturing and building a globally recognised ‘Made in India’ brand, Sanjeet Singh, Senior Advisor, NITI Aayog, said on Tuesday. “Branding is the essential lifeblood of making things work. But we don't have to wait for branded products to be able to boost our manufacturing in India. Simultaneously, our goal should be the ‘Made in India’ brand,” Singh said.
He stressed that building the ‘Made in India’ brand cannot be the responsibility of a single individual or organisation. It would require a collective effort involving athletes, sportspersons, young people, corporate houses and platforms such as Sportscom. Singh said the government has, for more than a decade, treated sports goods and equipment manufacturing as a strategic area for growth. Under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, NITI Aayog prepared a specific roadmap for the sector, which was subsequently converted into a scheme by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. Highlighting the challenges faced by the industry, Singh said detailed studies and interactions with sports goods and equipment manufacturers showed that most of the issues were non-financial in nature. “Our detailed studies and interactions with the various manufacturing units that are
manufacturing sports goods and equipment, and mind you, 90 per cent of them are MSME units, have shown that most of the challenges are essentially coming from non-financial issues relating to regulations and bottlenecks,” he said. Singh emphasised that addressing these regulatory and procedural bottlenecks would be crucial for strengthening the domestic sports manufacturing ecosystem. With the overwhelming majority of manufacturers being MSMEs, improving the ease of doing business for these units could play a key role in expanding India's manufacturing capabilities. He said the objective should be to simultaneously strengthen manufacturing, develop Indian brands and bring together stakeholders across the sports ecosystem to position India as a competitive global hub for sports goods and equipment.
India’s economy remains resilient amid global headwinds: RBI bulletin
New Delhi, Aug 25 (IANS) India’s economy, driven by buoyant domestic demand and rising manufacturing and services activity, has demonstrated notable resilience to the ongoing global headwinds, according to the RBI’s monthly bulletin released on Tuesday. The global economic outlook continues to be shaped by geopolitical frictions in West Asia and fresh tariffs by the US.
Despite these risks to global trade and the growth-inflation matrix, India’s robust macroeconomic fundamentals continue to provide a cushion to the domestic economy, the bulletin stated. The momentum of Q1:2026-27 continued in July with domestic demand remaining buoyant, as reflected by several indicators, including vehicle and tractor sales. Petroleum product consumption growth returned to positive territory, after three straight months of contraction. Industrial production strengthened sharply in June, recording its strongest growth in nearly two years, supported by a broad-based acceleration
in manufacturing. The services sector also exhibited resilience, the RBI bulletin observed. The recovery in southwest monsoon in July helped kharif sowing reach closer to normal acreage, partly mitigating some of the risks to the agriculture sector. Backed by a high stock of public foodgrains, the government has also announced an Open Market Sales Scheme for the current financial year to augment supply. While headline CPI inflation edged up above the target, it was primarily on account of supplyside pressures, the bulletin said, noting that stable core inflation reaffirmed the lower passthrough of cost pressures.
UPI: From small steps within India to giant leap in global financial arena
New Delhi, Aug 25 (IANS) When Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched BHIM UPI (Bharat Interface for Money – Unified Payments Interface) App during the inauguration of the “DigiDhanMela” on December 31, 2016, he had urged people to make digital payments a habit to transform the country into a
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cashless economy. On Tuesday, he recalled the transformative journey that has marked a major turning point in India’s digital payment journey. Highlighting the scale and reach it has achieved in a decade, PM Modi posted on X that UPI’s remarkable journey is something every Indian can be proud of and invited citizens to share their experiences of using the platform and how it has impacted their daily lives. Digital payments have indeed emerged as one of the most remarkable innovations in India’s financial ecosystem, reshaping the way citizens transact and positioning the country as a
global leader in digital payments. What was initially a modest platform has become the backbone of India’s financial transactions, which, as observed by the Prime Minister in another post, “registered nearly a 13,000fold rise in transaction value”. In the first month of operations in August 2016, UPI recorded around 90,000 transactions, while in FY 2025-2026 it accounted for 84 per cent of India's digital payments. Meanwhile, the number of banks live on the platform increased to 703 in FY2025-26 from 44 in FY 2016-17, which is said to include public and private sectors, small finance, and cooperative banks.
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BIZ BUZZ
India’s Financial Inclusion Index rises from 53.9 in 2018 to 67 in 2026
New Delhi, Aug 27 (IANS) India’s Financial Inclusion Index has risen from 53.9 in 2018 to 67 in 2026, showcasing deeper access to credit, insurance, savings and digital payments, an official factsheet said on Thursday. The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PM-JDY) accounts have grown four times since 2015 to 59.09 crore and deposits have risen 20-fold to Rs 3,16,514 crore. Nearly 45.95 crore PM-JDY accounts are in rural and semiurban areas, while 13.14 crore are in urban and metropolitan areas. As on August 19, 2026, there are 32.92 crore female beneficiaries of PM-JDY accounts and female enrolment has steadily risen over the years, highlighting the scheme’s role in promoting gender equality in financial access. PM-JDY deposits have surged nearly 20-fold, rising from Rs 15,670 crore in March 2015 to Rs 3,16,514 crore as of August 19, 2026. This rise reflects growing saving habits among low-income
households, increasing trust in formal banking, and deeper participation in the financial system. Nearly 41.29 crore RuPay debit cards have been issued to PM-JDY account holders, reflecting a rise in digital transactions. The scheme initially focused on providing a bank account to “every household” and its focus expanded to ensure that “every unbanked adult” had access to a bank account, thereby widening the reach of financial inclusion. It provides basic banking services, need-based credit, remittances, insurance and pension to underserved and low-income groups. RuPay Debit card is provided to PM-JDY account holder. It is a domestic debit card and is accepted at all ATMs and most PoS machines. PM-JDY accounts are eligible for Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PM-JJBY), Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), Atal Pension Yojana (APY), Micro Units Development & Refinance Agency Bank (MUDRA) scheme. An overdraft facility up to Rs 10,000 is available to one PM-JDY account holder per household which can be availed after 6 months of satisfactory operation of the account.
Piyush Goyal calls for greater investment, stronger industrial partnerships during Japan visit
New Delhi, Aug 27 (IANS) Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal’s Japan visit has reaffirmed the strong momentum in Special Strategic and Global Partnership and provided fresh impetus to efforts to deepen trade, investment, technology and industrial cooperation, the government said on Thursday. The visit also strengthened the foundation for greater Japanese participation in India’s transformation into a globally competitive manufacturing, technology and investment hub, while opening new avenues for mutually beneficial growth and innovation. Goyal concluded his official visit to Japan, following a series of highlevel engagements in Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka aimed at accelerating Japanese investment in India, strengthening industrial
partnerships and expanding bilateral economic cooperation across emerging and strategic sectors. The minister held extensive discussions with senior Japanese government leaders, financial institutions and business executives, including the leadership of more than 30 major Japanese companies and financial institutions with significant or growing interests in India. The engagements focused on expanding investment, strengthening resilient supply chains, advancing technology partnerships and creating new avenues for business-tobusiness collaboration between the two countries, according to an official statement. A key focus of the visit was mobilising long-term Japanese institutional capital for India. Goyal engaged with leading Japanese financial institutions, including MUFG, Mizuho, Nomura, Nippon Life, Development Bank of Japan and Morgan Stanley MUFG Securities, besides other major investment and financial institutions.
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Sept 1-15, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 2
US court blocks new mail-ballot rules
India rebalances economic partnership with US, China
Washington, Aug 29 (IANS) A US federal judge has temporarily blocked new Postal Service requirements for mail-in ballots after a coalition of 25 states warned that the changes could disenfranchise eligible voters weeks before the November midterm elections. The temporary restraining order stops the US Postal Service from implementing requirements involving voter lists, ballotenvelope designs and federal approval of election materials while the legal challenge proceeds. Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes, who joined the multistate lawsuit, announced the order on Friday. “This is a win for every Arizona voter and the rule of law,” Mayes said. “Arizonans have voted safely and
securely by mail for decades. In a system designed by Republicans, at least three-quarters of Arizona voters choose to vote by mail. Today the court agreed that the federal government cannot upend our election system just weeks before ballots go out.” The court found that complying with the rule before the November 3 elections was “practically impossible”, according to the Arizona Attorney General’s Office. States would have to redesign and produce ballot materials, modify election systems, train state and local officials and upload large quantities of voter information to a new federal portal. Some states are legally required to begin mailing ballots as early as next week. Several have already ordered their ballots and envelopes. The judge found that the absence of clear deadlines for Postal Service approval created a significant risk that eligible voters could be denied ballots. President Donald Trump directed the Postal Service to develop the standards in a March 31 executive order intended to strengthen citizenship verification and integrity in federal elections.
Trump orders halt to Iran talks: Report
Washington, Aug 19 (IANS) US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (US local time) instructed his top envoys to halt their conversations with Iran, according to a CNN report, citing US officials. Trump told his negotiating team, including Vice President JD Vance and envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, not to engage with Tehran despite what officials described as some "positive discussions" with Iran, the report said. Signaling his readiness to put the conflict at arm's length, Trump has been unsatisfied with Tehran's unwillingness to bend to his demands, according to the report. He wants to wait until Iran's leaders signal fresh willingness to strike the deal he is seeking before reengaging, reports Xinhua news agency. The White House is shifting strategy to "strangle" Iran over time rather than resort to further strikes, CNN quoted a source familiar with the matter as saying.
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US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Thursday that the United States would impose measures on Iran that have "never been seen," and Washington is stepping up a financial campaign against Tehran. He added that the Treasury Department has targeted Iranian "bank accounts, crypto wallets, assets around the world, cutting off payments into both the leadership in the regime and the government itself." Despite repeated earlier assertions that talks were proceeding well, Trump announced on social media on Tuesday that there were "no talks or conversations going on, or scheduled" with Iran. "The Naval Blockade remains in full force and effect," he added, claiming the Strait of Hormuz "is open and operating" and "all water mines have been removed or detonated," contradicting reports that traffic through the global energy waterway remains sharply reduced. The United States and Iran remain at odds over the Strait of Hormuz and the terms for ending the conflict, with the future of the talks uncertain after a 60-day negotiating period set under a memorandum of understanding ended on Monday.
New Delhi, Aug 30 (IANS) India has succeeded in rebalancing its economic partnership with both the US and China during 2026 with a negotiated settlement of the tariff dispute that escalated in 2025 with Washington and a calibrated easing of restrictions on Chinese capital for the first time since the border clashes in 2020, according to an article. The US relationship settled first. On February 2, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump agreed, over the phone, to bring the reciprocal tariff on Indian goods down to 18 per cent from 25 per cent, while dropping the additional 25 per cent punitive duty tied to Russian oil purchases
altogether. Both governments have publicly reaffirmed that the India arrangement would hold regardless of the US Supreme Court judgment on tariffs. Washington has since layered on separate Section 301 duties of 10 per cent, though roughly 45 per cent of Indian exports remain outside their scope, and quartz surface products have been hit with safeguard tariffs running as high as 55 per cent. The net effect is a tariff regime that is lower and more predictable than it was a year ago, states the article by Alok Kumar Kanojia in Geopolitical Monitor. On March 10, the Union Cabinet amended Press Note 3, the 2020 rule that had routed all investment from land-bordering countries through a mandatory government-approval process. The amendment did not reopen the door to direct Chinese investment, which still requires prior clearance. What it did was create an automatic route for
TRUMP EFFECT
entities with non-controlling Chinese beneficial ownership below 10 per cent, along with a 60-day approval timeline for select manufacturing sectors such as capital goods, electronic components, and solar inputs like polysilicon and ingot-wafer. By late August, the government reported roughly Rs 4,896 crore in FDI across 29 projects had come through under the eased norms, spanning IT, pharmaceuticals, data centres, and manufacturing. It is a narrow opening rather than a wide one, but is accompanied with Beijing lifting export curbs on rare earth magnets, fertilisers, and tunnel boring machines in August last year, and border talks have picked up pace through 2026, culminating this week in National Security Advisor Ajit Doval’s visit to Beijing for the first Special Representatives dialogue on the boundary dispute in five years, ahead of a BRICS summit New Delhi is hosting next month, the article noted.
US senators oppose ICE electric-shock gloves
Washington, Aug 29 (IANS) Sixteen US senators have urged the Trump administration to abandon plans to spend up to $20 million on electric-shock gloves for immigration officers, citing concerns about safety, training, civil rights and possible misuse during arrests. Senator Jack Reed acknowledged that shock gloves could have legitimate law-enforcement applications when used correctly by properly trained officers.The Democratic-led group asked US Immigration and Customs Enforcement to cancel the proposed purchase. If the agency proceeds, the lawmakers want it to answer 31 questions and
produce related documents by September 10. The Department of Homeland Security issued a notice on August 10 concerning ICE’s proposed acquisition of the CTG5 G.L.O.V.E. The device delivers an electric shock through direct contact and is described as a “Conductive Distraction and Deescalation Device”. The planned acquisition is valued at between $10 million and $20 million. The gloves could be used by officers with Homeland Security Investigations and Enforcement and Removal Operations, according to the senators’ letter. “We write to express deep concern about U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) plans to spend up to $20 million on gloves that deliver electric shocks,” the senators wrote. They questioned whether ICE personnel could safely use the
equipment amid public scrutiny of the agency’s enforcement practices. “The proposed acquisition raises serious questions about necessity, proportionality, medical safety, training, accountability, and constitutional rights,” they said. “A device capable of delivering an electrical shock through direct contact with an individual presents substantial risks if deployed during civil arrests – even more so if it is deployed without clear limits, appropriate training, and comprehensive oversight.” The letter was led by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada. It was signed by Senators Ben Ray Luján, Angus King, Dick Durbin, Jacky Rosen, Peter Welch, Patty Murray, Jeanne Shaheen, Chris Van Hollen, Angela Alsobrooks, Andy Kim, Adam Schiff, Jack Reed, Alex Padilla, Tammy Duckworth and Amy Klobuchar.
US lawmakers criticise Trump tariffs after Canada trade talks collapse
Washington, Aug 23 (IANS) A group of US lawmakers has warned that the collapse of trade negotiations with Canada and the imposition of 50 per cent tariffs will raise prices, disrupt crossborder businesses and deepen uncertainty in one of America’s most important economic relationships. The new US tariffs on a range of Canadian products took effect on Saturday after negotiations failed to produce an agreement.
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Canada has announced that it will retaliate with matching duties. Republican Senator Susan Collins said the “on-again, off-again” negotiations were creating higher costs, risk and uncertainty for businesses in her home state of Maine. “If the Administration proceeds with these tariffs, they will increase costs for Maine families, as most businesses will have no choice but to pass on the tariffs to their customers through higher prices,” Collins said. Maine imports approximately $2 billion in non-petroleum products from Canada annually, she said, adding that farmers, lobstermen and other businesses
were concerned about supplychain shortages and possible Canadian retaliation. Collins urged Washington and Ottawa to return to the negotiating table and reach what she described as a fair agreement. Democratic Senator Peter Welch, a member of the Senate Finance Committee, said the tariffs amounted to a “slap in the face” to businesses and farmers in Vermont and other northern border states. Welch said commercial relationships built over several decades were being placed in jeopardy and urged President Donald Trump to find an “off-ramp” from the trade confrontation.
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INDIA NEWS
COMMUNITY CHRONICLE
India, Queensland explore new Indian Consulate engages Queensland avenues for education ties
community through Open House Brisbane, August 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Consulate General of India in Brisbane held an Open House to provide members of the Indian community in Queensland with a direct platform to raise concerns and seek clarification on consular matters.
Brisbane, August 26(Australia Indian News Newsdesk)
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ndia and Queensland have explored new opportunities to strengthen cooperation in higher education, with the Consul General of India in Brisbane Neetu Bhagotia holding discussions with Southern Cross University Executive Director Chris Ashton. The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration in the higher education sector and
identifying new avenues to make partnerships between India and Queensland more productive and impactful. The discussions also highlighted the importance of greater institutional cooperation and closer educational ties between India and Australia. The engagement comes amid growing opportunities for collaboration between Indian and Australian universities in education, research and innovation.
High Commissioner explores education ties with University of Wollongong
Canberra, August 27 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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igh Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh met Prof. Jiantao Xi, Interim Pro Vice-Chancellor, Global Engagement, and his team at the University of Wollongong to discuss opportunities for deeper cooperation between India and Australia in higher education, research and innovation. The discussions included the university’s plans and engagement relating to its campus in GIFT City, India. The meeting also explored opportunities to expand collaboration in areas of higher education, research and innovation. The engagement reflects the growing importance of educational and research
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partnerships in the broader Australia-India relationship. Greater cooperation between universities and research institutions can create opportunities for academic exchange, joint research and innovation, while strengthening institutional links between the two countries. The meeting also highlighted the University of Wollongong’s engagement with India and the potential for its presence in GIFT City to contribute to closer education and research connections between Australian and Indian institutions. Singh’s interaction with the university leadership forms part of continued efforts to promote stronger institutional partnerships and people-topeople links between India and Australia.
The initiative enabled community members to interact with consular officials and discuss a range of issues, including passports, Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI), visas, document attestation and other consular services. The Open House was aimed at facilitating greater accessibility to consular services and addressing community queries through direct engagement with officials. The Consulate said the initiative reflected its commitment to being accessible and responsive
to the needs of the Indian community, while maintaining close and regular engagement
with community members across Queensland.
Raksha Bandhan celebrated at Indian Consulate in Perth Perth, August 18 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Consulate General of India in Perth marked Raksha Bandhan with a celebration highlighting the cherished bond between brothers and sisters and the spirit of togetherness associated with the festival. Sister Neeta Ruparelia, Coordinator from Brahma Kumaris Perth, visited the Consulate and tied rakhis to members of the Consulate team, marking the occasion in keeping with the traditional significance of Raksha Bandhan. The celebration reflected the warmth and spirit of the festival while bringing members of
the Consulate and the Brahma Kumaris Perth community
together for the occasion.
Australia, India explore cooperation in audio-visual sector
SYDNEY, AUGUST 18/INDIAN ABROAD NEWSDESK
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he Consulate General of India in Sydney organised a meeting between Prabhat, Additional Secretary in India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, and a delegation from the
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National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC) with the Director of the Centre for Australia India Relations at the Consulate on August 17. The discussions focused on strengthening cooperation between Australia and India under the Audio Visual Co-
production Agreement and exploring opportunities for greater collaboration in the film and audio-visual sectors. The delegation later visited the head office of the Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) in Sydney, where it met members of the organisation’s leadership team to discuss potential areas of collaboration. The discussions also explored SBS participation in major Indian events, including the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) and WAVES, with a focus on expanding engagement between the two countries’ media and creative industries.
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Sept 1-15, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 2
Dr Ram Mohan - Full Speech
“Wow, Thank you so much Minister “Good evening everyone. “Before I begin, I acknowledge the Traditional owners of the land where we meet up today, and I pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging. “Before I speak about this recognition, I am deeply saddened by the devastating floods and landslides along the Nepal and Tibet border, and by the tragic loss of life and
destruction. As a multicultural community, we stand in solidarity with our Nepalese and Tibetan communities here in Queensland, we share your grief and we stand with you. A community gathering and candlelight vigil was organized at KGS on Sunday. “I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive the Volunteer of the Year Award. This recognition is very meaningful to me, but I accept it on behalf of all the volunteers who generously give their time, energy and compassion to make our community stronger. “Volunteering has never been about receiving recognition. It is about bringing people together, supporting those in need and creating a community where everyone feels welcomed, respected and valued. “I would like to sincerely thank our wonderful community for your trust, encouragement and friendship over the years. Your support has inspired me to continue serving and contributing wherever I can.
“My heartfelt thanks also go to Ethinc community council of qld. ECCQ, Federation sof Indian communities of qld and FICQ and Multicultural communities qld MCCQ for providing me with opportunities to work alongside so many dedicated people and to serve Queensland’s diverse multicultural communities. I am grateful for your leadership, collaboration and ongoing commitment to building a more inclusive society. “Most importantly, I would like to thank my wife, Pallvi Mohan. Her constant encouragement, patience and unwavering support have made my community work possible. “Finally, I dedicate this recognition to every volunteer who works quietly behind the scenes without expecting anything in return. Together, we can continue creating positive and lasting change. “Thank you once again for this incredible honour.”
High Commissioner explores education ties with University of Wollongong
COMMUNITY CHRONICLE
High Commissioner meets Australian Navy chief to strengthen maritime ties
Canberra, August 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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igh Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh paid a courtesy call on Vice Admiral Matthew Buckley AM CSC RAN, Chief of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), following his assumption of leadership of the Australian Navy. The meeting reaffirmed the strong maritime partnership between India and Australia, with the two sides discussing avenues to further strengthen cooperation and engagement between the Indian Navy and the Royal Australian Navy. Singh’s interaction with the Australian Navy chief highlighted the importance attached by both
countries to advancing maritime cooperation and deepening engagement between their naval forces. The meeting forms part of the broader India-Australia strategic partnership, which has continued to expand across defence, security and maritime domains. Closer cooperation between the Indian Navy and the Royal Australian Navy is an important element of the countries’ efforts to enhance mutual engagement in the maritime sphere. Singh’s courtesy call also marked an opportunity to maintain highlevel engagement with Australia’s naval leadership and reinforce the longstanding maritime partnership between the two countries.
High Commissioner visits Port Kembla, explores new areas of cooperation
Canberra, August 27 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Canberra, August 27 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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igh Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh met Prof. Jiantao Xi, Interim Pro Vice-Chancellor, Global Engagement, and his team at the University of Wollongong to discuss opportunities for deeper cooperation between India and Australia in higher education, research and innovation. The discussions included the university’s plans and engagement relating to its campus in GIFT City, India. The meeting also explored opportunities to expand collaboration in areas of higher education, research and innovation. The engagement reflects the growing importance of educational and research
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partnerships in the broader Australia-India relationship. Greater cooperation between universities and research institutions can create opportunities for academic exchange, joint research and innovation, while strengthening institutional links between the two countries. The meeting also highlighted the University of Wollongong’s engagement with India and
the potential for its presence in GIFT City to contribute to closer education and research connections between Australian and Indian institutions. Singh’s interaction with the university leadership forms part of continued efforts to promote stronger institutional partnerships and people-topeople links between India and Australia.
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igh Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh visited Port Kembla with Alison Byrnes MP, Federal Member for Cunningham, Peter Ernst, Head of Regional Ports at the Port Authority of NSW, and Capt. Sharad Bhasin, Harbour Master at Port Kembla. The visit highlighted the strategic importance of Port Kembla and the opportunities to deepen Australia-India cooperation in trade, logistics, infrastructure, investment and clean energy. The engagement also drew attention to the important role of ports in facilitating trade and strengthening supply chains, while exploring potential areas for greater commercial and infrastructure cooperation
between the two countries. Port Kembla is an important part of the Illawarra region’s industrial and logistics network, making its connectivity and infrastructure relevant to wider opportunities in trade and investment. The visit provided an opportunity to discuss how such infrastructure could support stronger economic engagement between Australia and India. The interaction was part of Singh’s ongoing engagement with Australian stakeholders and regional institutions to identify opportunities for expanding bilateral cooperation. It also reflected the growing breadth of the Australia-India partnership, extending beyond traditional trade into infrastructure, investment and clean-energy collaboration.
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UNSW Bengaluru campus to deepen Australia–India education ties
COMMUNITY CHRONICLE
Nagesh Singh discusses vocational education cooperation
Canberra, August 25 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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igh Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh met Prof. Lisa Zamberlan, Pro Vice-Chancellor International at the University of New South Wales (UNSW), and her team in Sydney to discuss opportunities arising from the university’s recently opened Bengaluru campus. The meeting focused on UNSW’s new campus and its potential to further strengthen cooperation between Australia and India in education, research and innovation.
The engagement was described as a significant milestone in the
growing education partnership between the two countries.
Nagesh Singh visits Sydney exhibition on Vishnu
Canberra, August 18 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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igh Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh met Laura Macpherson, CEO of Bendigo TAFE, Sharan Burrow AC, Board Chair of Bendigo Kangan Institute, and Mamta Chauhan, Executive Director of VETASSESS, to discuss Australia– India cooperation in skills and vocational education.
The discussions covered the India Automobile Centre of Excellence in Gandhinagar, trainer capacity building and the mobility of skilled professionals. The meeting highlighted opportunities to strengthen collaboration in skills development and vocational education, while supporting greater mobility of skilled professionals between Australia and India.
High Commissioner, Fernando discuss Australia–India partnership
Canberra, August 25 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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igh Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh, accompanied by his spouse Prajna Singh, visited the Art Gallery of New South Wales in Sydney to view Avatar: Forms of Vishnu,
a major exhibition tracing 15 centuries of art and storytelling from South and Southeast Asia. They were welcomed by AGNSW Director Maud Page, Jane Pochon and Melanie Eastburn, the exhibition’s co-curator and Senior Curator of Asian Art at the
gallery. The visit provided an opportunity to explore the region’s rich artistic heritage and highlighted the deep and enduring cultural connections between Australia and India.
Queensland premier launches FICQ Diwali 2026 poster
Brisbane, August 25 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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ueensland Premier David Crisafulli has launched the official poster for FICQ Diwali 2026, marking the start of the countdown to one of the state’s major celebrations of Indian culture, community and unity. The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) said the launch marked
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a significant moment ahead of the annual Festival of Lights celebrations, which bring together communities across Queensland. FICQ Diwali 2026 will be held on November 6 at King George Square in Brisbane CBD, with the celebrations scheduled from 11 am to 10 pm. The event will feature cultural performances and festivities, offering an opportunity for the
Indian community and the wider public to come together and celebrate Diwali. FICQ said the celebration would showcase culture, community and unity, while adding to Brisbane’s vibrant multicultural character. The organisation has invited the community to save the date and join the celebrations, with the poster launch formally beginning the countdown to this year’s Diwali festival.
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Canberra, August 18 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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igh Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh met Cassandra Fernando MP, Federal Member for Holt, Victoria, for discussions on strengthening the Australia–India bilateral relationship. The meeting covered opportunities to further advance
the multifaceted partnership between the two countries, with parliamentary and community ties forming part of the discussions. The engagement highlighted the importance of stronger parliamentary and people-topeople links in further deepening relations between Australia and India.
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Perth celebrates Teej with vibrant Rajasthani traditions Perth, August 24 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he rich culture and traditions of Rajasthan were showcased at the Teej festivities in Perth, where the Rajasthani Kutumb Perth presented a vibrant cultural display. The celebrations brought the colours and spirit of Rajasthan to the festivities through traditional attire, music and dance. The performances and presentation reflected the state’s distinctive cultural heritage and traditions, adding to the festive atmosphere. The event provided an opportunity for the Rajasthani community in Perth to celebrate
its cultural heritage and share the traditions of Rajasthan with the wider community. The vibrant display made the Teej celebrations a memorable occasion, highlighting the enduring connection of the community with its cultural roots.
Western Australia joins India’s 80th India, Nauru seek to expand bilateral cooperation Independence Day celebrations
Perth, August 27 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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ndia’s 80th Independence Day was celebrated in Western Australia at a reception hosted by Yaz Mubarakai MLA, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Regional
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Development, Ports, Science and Innovation and Medical Research, Kimberley, in collaboration with the Indian Society of Western Australia (ISWA). The Consul General of India in Perth, Kajari Biswas, participated in the reception, which brought
together Western Australian parliamentarians and members of the Indian community to commemorate the national occasion and celebrate the enduring friendship between India and Western Australia. The gathering was attended by Dr Jags MLA, Member for Riverton; Kevin Michel MLA, Member for Pilbara; and Dr Parwinder Kaur MLC, Deputy Chair of Committees and Member for Western Australia. The reception celebrated the shared values, enduring friendship and strong people-topeople connections between India and Western Australia. It also provided an opportunity for the Indian community and Australian representatives to come together in marking the important national occasion. The Consul General conveyed her thanks to Roger Cook MLA, Premier of Western Australia, and the participating parliamentarians for joining the celebrations and for their contribution towards strengthening the warm and longstanding India-Western Australia relationship. The event highlighted the importance of continued engagement between the Indian community, Western Australian parliamentarians and Indian diplomatic representatives in fostering the close ties between India and Western Australia.
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Melbourne, August 24(Australia India News Newsdesk)
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auru President David Adeang met India’s newly appointed High Commissioner to Nauru Nagesh Singh in Melbourne on August 22, with the two sides discussing ways to strengthen bilateral ties. Singh was accompanied by India’s Consul General in Melbourne Anish Rajan. The Nauruan side was represented by Minister Rennier Gadabu, High
Commissioner Camilla Solomon and RonPhos Chairman Newman Rykers. The meeting reaffirmed the longstanding friendship and partnership between Nauru and India, while discussions focused on expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest. Mining, technology, health and education were among the key sectors discussed as the two countries explored opportunities to deepen their bilateral engagement.
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Indian Consul General joins Perth Multicultural Day celebrations Perth, August 21 (Australia India News Newsdesk) The Consul General of India in Perth, Kajari Biswas, attended Multicultural Day celebrations organised by the Institute of Health and Nursing Australia (IHNA) and the Institute of Health and Management (IHM) at the IHM Perth campus, highlighting the diversity and multicultural spirit of the community. During the visit, the Consul General interacted with nursing students and staff and appreciated the opportunity to engage with members of the health and education community.
The Consul General was warmly welcomed by Justin Jacob, Campus Director, along with staff members. She also met other members of the institution, including Prof. Stephen McMurray, Matthew Philip and Mercy Mary Jose. As part of the programme, the Consul General presented a certificate to Christian Vallee and congratulated him on his contribution to the field of health. The celebrations reflected the multicultural character of the Perth community and provided an opportunity to recognise the contribution of students and professionals in the health sector.
Perth Consul General backs wider reach for Indian cinema
Jewellery sectors seek stronger Australia–India business ties Brisbane, August 25 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he growing potential for trade and business cooperation between India’s gems and jewellery industry and Queensland’s jewellery sector was highlighted at a Business-toBusiness (B2B) networking event in Brisbane.
Perth, August 18 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Consul General of India in Perth, Kajari Biswas, met Anupam Sharma, Founder and Festival Director of the National Indian Film Festival of Australia (NIFFA), to discuss opportunities to further promote Indian cinema, culture and creative collaborations across Western Australia. The meeting focused on exploring avenues for greater cultural engagement through Indian cinema and strengthening creative collaborations in the state.
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The Consulate General of India in Perth has collaborated with NIFFA to organise film festivals across Western Australia and the Northern Territory, helping bring Indian cinema and culture to audiences in the region. The Consulate said it looks forward to welcoming NIFFA back to Perth next year and continuing the valued cultural partnership. The collaboration reflects the role of cinema and cultural initiatives in fostering closer people-topeople connections between India and Australia.
Organised by the Consulate General of India in Brisbane on August 24, the event brought together a visiting delegation from the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), India, and representatives of Queensland’s jewellery and gemstone industry. The networking session provided Indian jewellery manufacturers and exporters with an opportunity to engage directly with importers, wholesalers and buyers from Queensland and explore avenues for commercial partnerships and sector-specific cooperation. Addressing the gathering, the Consul General, Neetu Bhagotia,
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highlighted India’s strong position in the global gems and jewellery industry, particularly in diamonds, coloured gemstones, gold jewellery and precision manufacturing. She also underlined the opportunities for Queensland businesses to leverage India’s scale, quality and competitive pricing. The event brought together representatives of key business and industry organisations, including the Queensland Chamber of Commerce, Australia India Business Council and Australian Industry & Trade Association. Several Queenslandbased industry players, including
Michael Hill, Salt Wholesale, Goldsmiths Australia, Pacific Jewellers and Omie Vogue, also participated. The discussions enabled businesses from both sides to understand market opportunities, explore potential partnerships and strengthen commercial links between India’s gems and jewellery industry and Queensland. The initiative highlighted the scope for deeper business-tobusiness engagement and greater trade between the two markets, adding momentum to the broader economic relationship between Australia and India.
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Brisbane celebrates India’s 80th Independence Day Brisbane, August 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Indian community and friends of India in Queensland gathered in Brisbane to celebrate India’s 80th Independence Day, with the programme highlighting patriotism, unity and pride in the country’s journey. Consul General of India in Brisbane Neetu Bhagotia hoisted the Indian tricolour, marking the occasion and setting the tone for the Independence Day celebrations. The event brought together members of the Indian community and friends of India from across Queensland, providing an opportunity to
celebrate India’s achievements, heritage and continuing journey while strengthening bonds within the diaspora. Bhagotia also read excerpts from the President of India’s address to the nation on the eve of Independence Day. The address reflected on India’s journey, its achievements and its aspirations for the future. A quiz organised by the Consulate added an interactive element to the celebrations, with participants testing their knowledge of India’s history, heritage and achievements. Attendees were also encouraged to participate in the Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz, a global initiative aimed at deepening knowledge
and understanding of India among people of Indian origin and friends of India. The celebrations also brought together people from across Queensland and highlighted India’s diverse cultural traditions. The programme provided an opportunity for the community to showcase its cultural heritage while reflecting on the values of unity and diversity. The gathering reinforced the strong cultural connections between the Indian diaspora and India, while offering a platform for the community to come together and celebrate the country’s milestone Independence Day.
Nagesh Singh discusses Indo-Pacific cooperation at Lowy Institute Canberra, August 25 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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igh Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh visited the Lowy Institute in Sydney and met its leadership and experts for discussions on the Australia–India partnership and strategic developments in the Indo-Pacific. The talks also focused on opportunities to further strengthen engagement between Australia and India across areas of shared interest. The meeting underscored the commitment of both countries to working together towards a stable, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
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Australia-India partnership highlighted at Brisbane reception Brisbane, August 18 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he strengthening partnership between Australia and India was in focus at a National Day Reception hosted by the Consulate General of India in Brisbane to mark India’s 80th Independence Day. The reception, held on August 16, brought together Queensland Government ministers, local councillors, members of the Diplomatic Corps and
representatives of the Indian community. Among the dignitaries present were Fiona Simpson MP, Minister for Multiculturalism; Ros Bates MP, Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training; Andrew Powell MP, Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation; Cr Sarah Hutton, representing the Lord Mayor of Brisbane; Cameron Dick MP, Deputy Leader of the Opposition; and Jon Krause MP, representing the Speaker of the Queensland
Parliament. High Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh and Consul General of India in Brisbane Neetu Bhagotia addressed the gathering, with their remarks highlighting India’s economic growth and the expanding relationship between Australia and India. The reception featured cultural performances celebrating India’s rich and diverse heritage. A special fashion presentation, “Alluring India”, curated by designer Vinay Gupta, showcased
Indian textiles, traditional craftsmanship and clothing. A fashion walk involving local councillors was another highlight of the evening, adding a distinctive community element to the cultural programme. The reception brought together political, diplomatic and community representatives to celebrate India’s 80th Independence Day while showcasing the deepening bilateral relationship and strong people-to-people links between Australia and India.
Indian jewellery exporters engage with Australian industry Sydney, August 21(Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Consulate General of India in Sydney organised a business interaction between a visiting delegation of Indian jewellery manufacturers and exporters and Australian gems and jewellery companies on August 21. The delegation, led by the Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council of India (GJEPC), used the session to explore business opportunities and strengthen commercial engagement between Indian and Australian industry players. Acting Consul General of India Nirav Sutariya delivered the
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welcome address, followed by an industry address by Vijay Mangukiya, head of the GJEPC delegation. Sridhar Iyengar, Director, International Events, GJEPC, also made a presentation on the Indian gems and jewellery sector. The programme featured introductions between members of the delegation and Australian companies, followed by oneto-one business meetings and networking. The visiting companies also held meetings with established jewellery businesses in Sydney, including ABC Bullion, ahead of the International Jewellery Fair at the International Convention Centre Sydney. The interaction provided a
platform for Indian jewellery manufacturers and exporters to connect with Australian businesses and explore avenues for expanding bilateral trade in the sector.
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Community leader Dr Ram Mohan named Queensland Volunteer of the Year
Brisbane, August 29 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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ndian-Australian community leader and Editor of Australia India News Dr Ram Mohan has been named Volunteer of the Year at the 2026 Multicultural Queensland Awards, recognising his long-standing contribution to community service, volunteering and multicultural engagement across Queensland. Dr Mohan was among seven Queenslanders and community organisations recognised at a ceremony at the Logan Entertainment Centre marking the close of Queensland’s Multicultural Month celebrations. The annual awards recognise individuals and organisations involved in volunteering, entrepreneurship, community projects and grassroots initiatives supporting culturally diverse communities across the state. Dr Mohan migrated from India to Australia in 1998 and has been involved in community, academic, business, philanthropic and media activities in Queensland. He has also held leadership roles within the Indian community, including through the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ), and has worked with organisations including the Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ) and Multicultural Communities Connect Queensland (MCCQ). As Editor of Australia India News, Dr Mohan has also used his media work to highlight Australia–India relations, multicultural issues and the achievements of diverse communities. Accepting the award, Dr Mohan said he was “deeply honoured and humbled” by the recognition and dedicated it to volunteers who work quietly to strengthen communities. “I accept it on behalf of all the volunteers who generously give their time, energy and compassion to make our community stronger,” he said. He said volunteering had never been about recognition, but about bringing people together, supporting those in need and creating communities where everyone felt welcomed, respected and valued. Dr Mohan said Australia had given him opportunities and Queensland had become his home, creating a responsibility to
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give back to the community. He said multiculturalism should extend beyond celebrating different food, fashion and festivals to creating a genuine sense of belonging and participation, particularly for new migrants and young people. Among the initiatives he highlighted was his work with FICQ, MCCQ and ECCQ, through which he has worked alongside community leaders and organisations from across Queensland. He also established India News and Multicultural News Australia to provide platforms for multicultural communities to share their stories and highlight their achievements. He provided his own office space for a multicultural podcast studio, giving community leaders and organisations another avenue to communicate with wider audiences. Mental health awareness has also been a focus of his community work. Through the Mental Health Foundation Australia’s Multicultural Ambassador Program, more than 50 community leaders were brought together to help take mental health conversations into culturally diverse communities. Reflecting on his involvement during the tragedy involving Manmeet Alisher, Dr Mohan described the period as one of the most difficult experiences of his community service. “It wasn’t a time for titles or organisations. It was a time when people needed to come together,” he said. He said the experience reinforced his belief that community leadership was not only about being present during celebrations but also about standing with communities during difficult circumstances. In his acceptance speech, Dr Mohan also expressed solidarity with Queensland’s Nepalese and Tibetan communities following the loss of life and destruction caused by floods and landslides along the Nepal-Tibet border. He noted that a community gathering and candlelight vigil had been organised at KGS. The Minister’s Award went to Mary Ngarongo BartlettJohnston for her work with Māori and Pasifika communities. Minister for Multiculturalism Fiona Simpson said BartlettJohnston had supported young
people through mentoring and structured programmes while helping bring people from different cultural backgrounds together. Simpson praised BartlettJohnston for her sustained service and leadership in supporting Māori and Pasifika communities across Queensland. Tautua Group received the Entrepreneur of the Year award, while Saba Abraham OAM was recognised with the Women’s Economic Empowerment Award. Belong in Hockey (BIH) and Toowoomba Hockey Association received the Social Cohesion and Community Impact Project of the Year award, while LatinOZ Queensland was named Grassroots Not-for-profit Organisation of the Year. The Lifetime Achiever Award went to Janeth Deen OAM in recognition of more than 50 years of work focused on intercultural understanding, social cohesion and community wellbeing. Deen described the honour as deeply meaningful and said it had reinforced her commitment to community service and to building a more caring, connected and inclusive Queensland. A further 12 nominees received Highly Commended recognition, reflecting the range of nominations from communities across Queensland. The awards formed part of Queensland’s Multicultural Month programme, which brings together community organisations and residents from the state’s diverse cultural backgrounds. For Queensland’s Indian community, Dr Mohan’s recognition highlights the contribution of IndianAustralians to community leadership, volunteering and multicultural engagement across the state. Looking ahead, Dr Mohan said he wanted to focus on empowering the next generation of multicultural leaders, strengthening mental health awareness, creating stronger platforms for multicultural voices and encouraging greater collaboration between communities. “If this award helps encourage even a few more people to volunteer, then that would be one of its greatest rewards,” he said.
Raksha Bandhan marks message of harmony in Sydney
Sydney, August 18(Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Consulate General of India in Sydney, in collaboration with Brahma Kumaris Australia, organised a Raksha Bandhan programme that highlighted the festival’s enduring values of protection, unity and harmony. The programme opened
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with reflective remarks by representatives of the Brahma Kumaris, followed by the traditional tying of rakhis to staff members of the Consulate. The celebration emphasised the values of mutual respect, universal harmony and togetherness, while reinforcing the importance of nurturing positive values and stronger community connections.
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Perth Consulate marks Independence Day with blood donation drive Perth, August 18 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Consulate General of India in Perth, in collaboration with the Tamil Association of Western Australia Inc., organised a blood donation drive to commemorate India’s Independence Day. The initiative brought together the Consulate and the Tamil community in Western Australia for a meaningful community
activity to mark the national occasion. The blood donation drive added a community-service dimension to the Independence Day celebrations, reflecting the spirit of participation and social responsibility. The collaboration between the Consulate and the Tamil Association also highlighted the contribution of community organisations in supporting initiatives that benefit the wider community.
Perth celebrates India’s journey through 80 years of Independence Perth, August 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Indian community and friends of India in Western Australia gathered at the Consulate General of India in Perth to celebrate India’s 80th Independence Day, with the programme featuring patriotic fervour, national pride and cultural performances. The celebrations began with a special rendition of Vande Mataram by students from the Perth Indian Cultural Centre and a choir performance of India’s national song, setting a festive tone for the occasion.
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The gathering also featured the hoisting of the Indian tricolour. Consul General of India in Perth Kajari Biswas led the flag-hoisting ceremony in the presence of members of the Indian community and friends of India in Western Australia. The Consul General also read the Independence Day address by the President of India, highlighting the country’s journey, achievements and aspirations. The programme showcased India’s rich cultural heritage through a series of performances, including traditional and contemporary presentations by members of the community. The
performances reflected India’s diverse cultural traditions while bringing the community together in celebration. The event also provided an opportunity for members of the Indian diaspora and friends of India to celebrate the country’s 80-year journey of independence and reflect on its achievements and continuing progress. The celebrations highlighted the enduring connection between the Indian community in Western Australia and India, while reinforcing the values of unity, cultural pride and shared heritage.
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Sydney marks National Science Week with focus on India’s scientific heritage Sydney, August 21(Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Consulate General of India in Sydney, the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre and Bandana Cultural School came together to celebrate National Science Week 2026, highlighting the links between science, culture, creativity and environmental awareness. The programme, held on August 20, was addressed by Acting
Consul General of India Nirav Sutariya, who highlighted the significance of science and its contributions in ancient and modern India. He also spoke about the country’s rich scientific heritage and its continuing pursuit of innovation and discovery. The celebrations featured a range of activities aimed at encouraging children to explore science through creative expression. These included a dance performance on environmental
issues, a science-based drama, a tour of a science exhibition and a Science Art and Craft display. The programme provided participants with an opportunity to explore scientific themes while expressing their creativity and imagination. The organisers said the initiative encouraged young minds to approach science with curiosity, creativity and a spirit of exploration, while demonstrating the connection between scientific learning, culture and the
Sydney celebrates Independence Day with culture and community spirit Sydney, August 26 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Indian community in Sydney came together to celebrate India’s 80th Independence Day, with the Consulate General of India organising a programme featuring the national flag ceremony, cultural performances and community activities. Consul General Dr S. Janakiraman unfurled the Tricolour at the Consulate on August 15 in the presence of community members. The ceremony included the singing of the National Song and National Anthem, a reading of the
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President of India’s Independence Day address and an address by the Consul General. The celebrations showcased India’s rich cultural diversity through a series of performances. A classical Odissi dance presentation by ICCR Pratibha Sangam Award winner Ms Deblina Roy and a Bihu dance performance by Gargi Gogoi and Jatanupa Sarma Upadhyay were among the highlights. The performers were felicitated by the Consul General. The Consulate also organised creative competitions under the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign in association with SVCC. These
included the “India Through My Lens” photography competition, the “Visit Bharat 2047” painting competition and the “My Indian Story” reel competition. Entries featuring artwork, photographs and paintings were displayed at the Consulate during the celebrations, providing participants with an opportunity to showcase their creativity. The winners and participants were felicitated by the Consul General. The celebrations brought together members of the Indian community to mark the 80th Independence Day while providing a platform for cultural expression, creativity and community participation.
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trade ties discussed High Commissioner honours Rani Australia–India at Canberra meeting Mukerji at Melbourne film festival
Melbourne, August 20 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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igh Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh presented a special citation for excellence in acting to acclaimed actor Rani Mukerji at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2026, recognising her threedecade contribution to Indian cinema and its reach among audiences worldwide.
Mukerji has established a distinctive place in Hindi cinema through performances spanning mainstream commercial films as well as challenging and socially relevant roles. Across a career of more than three decades, she has been recognised for her versatility and ability to bring depth and emotional intensity to a wide range of characters. Her filmography includes popular titles such as Kuch Kuch Hota
Hai, Saathiya and Black, as well as more recent performances in Hichki and Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway. Her varied roles have helped her connect with audiences across generations. The citation honoured Mukerji's enduring contribution to Indian cinema and acknowledged the influence of her work on audiences beyond India. The presentation also underscored the growing cultural ties between Australia and India, with cinema serving as an important platform for cultural exchange and bringing audiences in the two countries closer. The honour at IFFM 2026 celebrated Mukerji's contribution to Indian cinema while highlighting the festival's role in showcasing Indian talent, films and storytelling to audiences in Australia.
Canberra, August 19 (Australia India News Newsdesk) Strengthening trade and investment ties between Australia and India was the focus of a meeting between High Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh and Australia’s Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator Don Farrell, at Parliament House. The meeting also covered ways to advance the shared economic agenda of Australia and India, as bilateral trade, investment and business engagement continue to expand. Australia and India have significantly deepened their economic relationship in recent years. India is currently Australia’s fifth-largest trading partner, with two-way trade in goods and services valued at A$54.4 billion in 2024-25, according to the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). The Australia–India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA), which entered into force in December 2022, has strengthened commercial ties and created new opportunities for businesses in both countries. The two sides are also continuing negotiations towards
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a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA). The economic partnership spans sectors including resources, critical minerals, education, agriculture, technology, healthcare, tourism and infrastructure. Clean energy, education and skills, agribusiness and tourism have also been identified as areas offering significant potential for future economic cooperation. The meeting followed the third Australia–India Annual Summit, held in Melbourne in July, where Prime Ministers Anthony Albanese and Narendra Modi reaffirmed their commitment to expanding the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, including cooperation in trade and investment. During the meeting, Singh also expressed his appreciation to Farrell for presenting him with a cabernet from the minister’s own Clare Valley vineyard, adding a personal touch to the diplomatic engagement. The discussions highlighted the continuing efforts by Australia and India to expand economic cooperation and create new opportunities for businesses and investors in both countries.
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Global health, scientific cooperation and the case for Taiwan’s participation
By Director-General Hou-Lu (William) Fan HA 79 and the growing importance of inclusive global health systems
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From 18 to 23 May 2026, global health leaders, policymakers, researchers and medical experts will gather in Geneva for the 79th World Health Assembly (WHA 79) under the theme: “Together for health. Stand with science.” At a time when the world continues to confront emerging infectious diseases, ageing populations, chronic illnesses and growing pressure on healthcare systems, the theme carries both urgency and significance. The challenges facing global health today cannot be addressed in isolation. Pandemics, health emergencies and disease outbreaks do not recognise borders, political systems or geography. They affect nations collectively and require international cooperation rooted in science, transparency and shared responsibility. In this context, the continued exclusion of Taiwan from meaningful participation in the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Health Assembly remains a subject of growing discussion among supporters of inclusive global health governance. Taiwan’s digital healthcare success and medical innovation Taiwan today possesses one of the most advanced healthcare systems in Asia, combining universal healthcare coverage with digital innovation, technological integration and preventive medicine. Its National Health Insurance system provides near-universal coverage and is supported by a highly digitalised healthcare infrastructure. Through systems such as electronic medical record exchanges and the NHI MediCloud platform, healthcare professionals are able to securely access patient data in real time, improving efficiency, reducing duplication and enhancing patient safety. Over recent years, Taiwan has also accelerated the use of telemedicine and smart healthcare technologies. Nationwide telemedicine services have enabled specialists to provide consultations to remote communities across a wide range of medical fields, including
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cardiology, dermatology and chronic disease management. The introduction of electronic prescription systems has further modernised patient care by enabling secure cloudbased sharing of medication information between hospitals and pharmacies. Such developments not only improve healthcare accessibility but also reduce medical errors and contribute to more sustainable healthcare systems. Taiwan has also emerged as an important player in the application of artificial intelligence in healthcare. By collaborating with technology partners and research institutions, Taiwan has developed AI-assisted systems aimed at predicting disease risk and strengthening preventive care. Such initiatives are increasingly important as countries across the world confront rising rates of diabetes, cardiovascular disease and ageing-related health conditions. Long-term care and healthcare preparedness In long-term care, Taiwan has introduced smart assistive technologies designed to support elderly populations and reduce pressure on caregivers. These technologies assist with mobility monitoring, patient safety and daily living support, reflecting the broader regional challenge of demographic ageing being experienced across the IndoPacific. Importantly, these innovations are not theoretical concepts limited to policy discussions. They represent practical experiences that can contribute meaningfully to international health cooperation. The WHA theme, “Together for health. Stand with science,” emphasises evidencebased collaboration, and Taiwan’s healthcare experience aligns closely with that principle. Taiwan’s community health contributions in Queensland Taiwan’s contribution to healthcare has also extended beyond its own borders. During periods of international health emergencies, Taiwan has supplied medical equipment, healthcare expertise and humanitarian support to various countries and communities. In Queensland, Taiwan-linked organisations and volunteers have played a visible role in supporting healthcare
outreach initiatives. One example is the long-standing work of the Tzu Chi Foundation Brisbane, which for many years has organised medical outreach programs in regional and disadvantaged communities across Queensland. During the recent Easter period, volunteers including doctors, dentists, nurses and allied healthcare workers travelled to Tara in Queensland’s Western Downs region to provide hundreds of treatments and consultations. Services included dental care, physiotherapy, traditional Chinese medicine and general health assessments. Such initiatives reflect a model of community-driven healthcare support that operates beyond politics and focuses directly on human wellbeing. Taiwanese institutions have also strengthened cooperation with Australian healthcare providers. In 2021, Taiwan Adventist Hospital and Brisbane’s Mater Group entered into a Memorandum of Understanding focused on collaboration in medical research, clinical training and hospital management. The agreement marked an important step in expanding institutional healthcare cooperation between Taiwan and Queensland. At the community level, Taiwanese Australians have also contributed to Queensland’s healthcare and charitable sectors through volunteering, fundraising and support for hospital foundations. These activities demonstrate how diaspora communities can help strengthen social and healthcare connections between societies. The debate over Taiwan’s participation in WHO The broader issue, however, concerns Taiwan’s limited participation within the WHO framework. Supporters of Taiwan’s inclusion argue that the exclusion creates avoidable gaps in international health cooperation. Taiwan possesses extensive experience in infectious disease surveillance, digital health systems and pandemic response. During the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak, Taiwan was widely noted for its rapid response measures, border controls, digital monitoring systems and public health management.
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Despite these capabilities, Taiwan’s participation in WHO technical meetings and information-sharing systems has remained restricted and inconsistent. Critics of the current arrangement argue that excluding a highly developed healthcare system from global health mechanisms weakens overall preparedness and reduces opportunities for information exchange. The issue also carries broader implications for global health security. Infectious diseases spread rapidly across borders, and any gaps in international coordination can affect global response efforts. Public health experts frequently emphasise that effective disease prevention depends on transparency, timely information-sharing and inclusive participation. Australia, regional cooperation and shared health goals Australia has consistently supported rules-based international cooperation and evidence-based policymaking in global affairs. As Australia and Taiwan continue to deepen ties in trade, education, technology and people-to-people engagement, healthcare cooperation has also become an increasingly important area of interaction. Within Australia, discussions around Taiwan’s participation in international organisations are often framed in practical terms rather than ideological ones. Advocates point to Taiwan’s healthcare achievements, technological capabilities and contributions to international medical cooperation as reasons for broader engagement. The WHA 79 theme itself reinforces the importance of scientific cooperation at a time when healthcare systems worldwide face mounting pressures. Emerging diseases, antimicrobial resistance, mental
health burdens and ageing populations require collaborative responses that draw on expertise from multiple regions and healthcare models. Global health requires inclusive participation Taiwan’s experience in digital healthcare, telemedicine, preventive medicine and healthcare system integration offers insights that many countries may find valuable. Excluding such experience from international dialogue risks limiting the exchange of knowledge at a time when global cooperation is increasingly essential. As delegates gather in Geneva under the banner “Together for health. Stand with science,” the broader message remains clear: healthcare challenges are global, and effective solutions depend on inclusion, cooperation and scientific engagement. For supporters of Taiwan’s participation, the argument is ultimately rooted in practicality. They believe that global health systems become stronger when capable partners are included rather than isolated. In an interconnected world where health emergencies can spread rapidly across continents, international health security depends on broad participation and shared expertise. The continuing debate surrounding Taiwan’s role within the WHO framework therefore extends beyond diplomacy alone. It reflects larger questions about how the international community defines cooperation, scientific exchange and collective preparedness in an era where health challenges increasingly affect all nations together. (The author is Director-General, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office Brisbane. The views expressed are his own.)
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FASHION
Tiger Shroff hits the gym for Nargis Fakhri’s mantra on self-love: iron therapy: No better feeling Remembering to take care of yourself is key ctress Nargis Fakhri shared than moving big dumbells
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a message on self-love and the importance of prioritising oneself, urging women to invest in their own well-being and embrace their personal journey.
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ction hero Tiger Shroff has shared a glimpse of himself working out with some “big dumbbells” in the gym. Tiger took to Instagram, where he shared a shirtless video of himself doing a chest workout. In the video, the actor flaunted his muscular body. The action hero was seen doing a cable fly workout and chest press with heavy weights. “No better feeling than moving some big ass dumbells
#irontherapy,” Tiger wrote as the caption. Tiger was last seen in “Baaghi 4”, an action thriller film directed by A. Harsha in his Hindi film debut, and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala under Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment. The film stars Tiger, Sanjay Dutt, Harnaaz Sandhu and Sonam Bajwa. It is the fourth installment in the Baaghi film series. It is an unofficial remake of the 2013 Tamil film Ainthu Ainthu Ainthu.
Nargis shared a picture of herself looking chic in a black suit. In the image, the actress is seen looking right into the camera lens as she posed for the picture. “Sometimes, remembering to take care of yourself is the key to becoming the woman you’re meant to be. Pour into yourself— you’re worth the investment. #selflove #nyc #homeisyou #journeytoself,” Nargis wrote as the caption. Recently, the actress had shared that she tried her hand at flying and said that her smooth experience may have something to do with being a pilot in a past life. Captioning the post, Nargis wrote: “First time flying. Apparently I was a pilot in my past life cuz I did so well.” On the acting front, Nargis was last seen in seen in Mastiii 4 directed by Milap Zaveri. It is the fourth installment in the Masti film series. The film stars Riteish Deshmukh, Vivek Oberoi and Aftab Shivdasani. The film follows three unhappy husbands who plan to leave their boring marriages. Their bold scheme offers liberation and thrill, but the aftermath takes surprising turns. She was also seen in Housefull 5, a comedy thriller, directed by Tarun Mansukhani this year. It marks the fifth instalment of the Housefull franchise.
Kareena Kapoor shares a glimpse of her intense workout plan
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ollywood star Kareena Kapoor on Wednesday gave fans a glimpse into her intense workout routine. The actress shared a picture of her training plan that included squats, kettlebell exercises, sled pushes and inverted ring rows. Taking to her social media account, Kareena shared a
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photograph of a whiteboard detailing her “KKK Flow Dayz” workout. “Chalo ji,” she captioned the post. The workout was seen divided into two parts, with three rounds of each. The first section included 12 landmine hack squats, 20 gladiator lifts and 20 kettlebell exercises. The second part featured four laps of sled push/ pull, 20 low-to-high rotations and 12 inverted ring rows. The glimpse comes as Kareena continues to maintain her fitness routine, which over the years has been a mix of yoga and traditional strength training. Talking about Kareena’s fitness journey, it has long been associated with her muchdiscussed transformation for Tashan which released in 2008, when she became widely known for her “size zero” figure. In many of her interviews, Kareena recalled that even during her Tashan phase, she
ate parathas and white butter for breakfast. She said she was never on the much-discussed “orange juice, size zero diet” and stressed the importance of having a proper breakfast. Kareena has always maintained her love for home-style Indian food. From Parathas, dal-chawal and khichdi, they all have featured prominently in discussions around her diet. The actor’s fitness routine has also continued through motherhood. Kareena, who is a mother of two sons, has remained consistent with exercise, with yoga, strength training, On the work front, Kareena is gearing up for Meghna Gulzar’s Daayra, in which she stars alongside Prithviraj Sukumaran. The film, which explores crime and thriller genre, is scheduled to release in theatres on September 18.
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The film features an ensemble cast including Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, Riteish Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt, Fardeen Khan, Shreyas Talpade, Nana Patekar, Jackie Shroff, Dino Morea, Jacqueline Fernandez, Nargis Fakhri, Chitrangada Singh, Sonam Bajwa, Soundarya Sharma, Chunky Pandey, Nikitin Dheer and Johnny Lever. A murder-mystery comedy, the film follows multiple impostors who claim to be the son of a
recently deceased billionaire as they compete for his fortune aboard a luxury cruise ship. Nargis came to prominence in India with the 2011 romantic drama film Rockstar. She subsequently played a war correspondent in the political thriller Madras Cafe, and starred in the commercially successful comedies Main Tera Hero and Housefull 3. She has also appeared in the Hollywood action-comedy Spy.
Kriti Sanon’s Raksha Bandhan campaign pulled down by brand day after actress backed ensemble traditions and festivals.
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day after Kriti Sanon clapped back at trolls criticizing her outfit in a recent Raksha Bandhan advertisement, the brand itself now has pulled down the campaign, stating that they have the highest regard and deep respect for Indian culture,
Kriti on August 25 shared a note on her Instagram handle, where she pointed out that the essence of any festival lies in the emotions, and not in the clothes we wear. She was seen donning an off-white ensemble featuring a bralette-style blouse, a cape, and a draped skirt for an advertisement for a jewellery brand for Raksha Bandhan. The brand on Wednesday shared a statement on Instagram, where they said that they have the highest regard and deep respect for Indian culture. Kriti wrote: “We have the highest regard and deep respect for Indian culture, traditions and festivals. As a brand, we have always believed in celebrating these joyous moments with the entire family and this time we wanted to extend the love and celebration to our pets.”
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Sept 1-15, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 2
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway to introduce 6 special joyride services for festival season
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he Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), a UNESCO World Heritage Site under Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), is set to introduce special additional joyride services from October 1 to make the upcoming Durga Puja festival season more memorable for tourists and visitors, officials said on Wednesday. NFR’s Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) Kapinjal Kishore Sharma said that the initiative will offer enhanced opportunities to experience the historic railway, breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Darjeeling hills. As part of the festival-season initiative, DHR will operate four single-trip joyrides between Darjeeling and Ghum. Services from Darjeeling to Ghum will depart at 9.20 a.m. and 11.25 a.m., while services from Ghum to Darjeeling will depart at 10.25 a.m. and 12.30 a.m. Sharma said that these services will be operated
by diesel-hauled trains with a proposed fare of Rs 800 per single journey. In addition, DHR will introduce two special round-trip joyrides between Kurseong and Mahanadi, providing passengers with an opportunity to enjoy one of the most scenic and heritagerich sections of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The first service, “Red Panda”, will be steam-hauled and will depart from Kurseong at 9 a.m., with the return journey from Mahanadi at 10 a.m. The proposed fare for the round trip is Rs 1,530, the official said. The second round-trip service, “Mukta Dhara”, will be dieselhauled and will depart from Kurseong at 3.15 p.m. with the return journey from Mahanadi at 4 p.m. The proposed round-trip fare is Rs 1,030. The service has been named “Mukta Dhara” as a tribute to Nobel laureate poet Rabindranath Tagore, one of India’s most celebrated poets and
Bijapur: The Deccan in stone
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journey through the monuments, memories and cultural richness of Vijayapura In northern Karnataka, where the landscape opens into the broad, dry expanse of the Deccan, stands a city whose past remains remarkably visible. Bijapur, officially known as Vijayapura, is a place where monumental domes, weathered fortifications, elegant mausoleums and historic mosques preserve the memory of a powerful medieval kingdom.
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For many travellers, Bijapur begins and ends with Gol Gumbaz. Yet the city offers much more than its celebrated dome. Its real attraction lies in the story told collectively by its monuments. They speak of the Adil Shahi dynasty, of a Deccan court that encouraged architecture, music and literature, and of a region where artistic traditions from different cultural worlds met and evolved. A journey through Bijapur is therefore not simply a visit
literary figures. Tagore’s celebrated poem Mukta Dhara is associated with the natural beauty of Paglajhora, adding a distinctive literary and cultural dimension to the new service. The introduction of these special joyrides further strengthens NFR’s efforts to preserve and promote the rich legacy of DHR while offering an enhanced travel experience, the CPRO noted. The services will provide tourists and local visitors an opportunity to enjoy the unique combination of heritage rail travel, steam technology, breathtaking mountain landscapes and the cultural richness of the Darjeeling hills. Ahead of the regular commencement, a special run of “Mukta Dhara” will be organised at Mahanadi Railway Station towards the end of September, on the eve of the station Mahotsav. The festival-season initiative is expected to add a distinctive dimension to tourism in the Darjeeling hills, giving travellers more opportunities to discover the region’s historic railway, scenic splendour and cultural heritage. Through these special services, DHR seeks to offer an enriching and memorable journey that brings together history, nature and the timeless charm of the hills. The NFR, headquartered at Maligaon near Guwahati, operates across the Northeastern states as well as in seven districts of West Bengal and five districts of north Bihar.
to historic buildings. It is an encounter with a distinctive chapter of India's past. The monument that defines the city No visit to Bijapur can begin anywhere other than Gol Gumbaz. The enormous mausoleum of Sultan Muhammad Adil Shah rises with an imposing simplicity. Its vast dome dominates the surrounding landscape, while the four corner towers give the structure its unmistakable profile. The scale is the first thing visitors notice. Inside, however, the building becomes an experience of sound and space. The famous Whispering Gallery allows even faint sounds to travel across the interior, creating an acoustic phenomenon that has fascinated visitors for generations. But the architectural achievement goes beyond the gallery. Gol Gumbaz reflects the confidence of a ruler who wanted his final resting place to embody the power and grandeur of his reign. The enormous dome, constructed without the conventional forest of supporting pillars beneath it, remains one of the most
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TRAVEL
US warns against travel to West Bank
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he United States on Wednesday urged its citizens to reconsider travel to the West Bank, citing increased terrorist attacks, violence and Israeli military operations over the past year. The State Department placed the territory at Level 3 under its four-tier travel advisory system. It also imposed restrictions on the movement of US government employees working in Israel and their families. US government employees must obtain special authorisation before travelling to the West Bank for official duties because of security risks, the advisory said. Employees and their family members are barred from personal travel across most of the territory. Limited exceptions apply to travel on Routes 1, 90 and 443. Route 90 may be used to reach the Allenby Bridge crossing, which connects the West Bank
striking achievements of Deccan architecture. Standing beneath it, the visitor is confronted not only by a monument but by the ambition of an entire age. The elegance of Ibrahim Rauza If Gol Gumbaz represents grandeur, Ibrahim Rauza offers a more intimate expression of architectural beauty. The complex, associated with Sultan Ibrahim Adil Shah II, is admired for its symmetry, ornamentation, slender minarets and carefully balanced proportions. Its architecture demonstrates how the Adil Shahi court could combine monumental construction with remarkable delicacy. The monument is often compared with the Taj Mahal because of its balanced composition and refined aesthetic, although such comparisons should be understood as architectural parallels rather than a simple story of imitation. Ibrahim Adil Shah II is also remembered for his deep interest in music and the arts. His reign is associated with an unusually rich cultural atmosphere in Bijapur,
with Jordan. Personal travel to Jericho and Bethlehem, including Beit Jala and Beit Sahour, is permitted between dawn and midnight. Checkpoint 300 near Rachel’s Tomb is the only route that US government employees and their families may use to enter Bethlehem, according to the advisory. The department attributed that restriction to the continued closure of checkpoints across the West Bank. “Reconsider Travel to West Bank due to terrorism and unrest,” the State Department advisory said. It warned that additional movement restrictions could be imposed on US personnel with little or no notice if security threats increase. The department said terrorist attacks in the West Bank had increased during the previous year. It warned of the risk of attacks and other terrorist activity across the territory. making the Rauza more than a royal tomb. It represents a period when artistic expression was an important part of courtly life. A city behind walls Bijapur's historic landscape also reveals its strategic importance. The old city was protected by extensive fortifications and gateways, reflecting a time when the Deccan was a region of competing kingdoms and shifting political alliances. The surviving walls and gates provide a different perspective on Bijapur. The city was not simply a centre of royal ceremony and artistic patronage. It was also a fortified political capital whose rulers needed to protect their territory and maintain control over an important part of the Deccan. Exploring the older parts of the city can therefore feel like moving through different layers of history. Grand monuments stand alongside less imposing structures, while fragments of the old defensive system remain woven into the modern urban landscape.
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Sept 1-15, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 2
INDIA NEWS
ARTS, CULTURE
From Kovalam’s skate streets to Russia, Rahul Rafi takes India to BRICS Skate Cup SiSP skate school in Kovalam in 2014, representing India at an international competition in Russia was probably the last thing he imagined.
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 26 (IANS)
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hen Rahul Rafi first stepped on a skateboard at the
Twelve years later, the 25-yearold skateboarder is preparing to take that journey, carrying with him a story that reflects the rise of India's grassroots skateboarding movement. Rahul, trained at the Sebastian India School Project (SiSP) in Kovalam, will represent India at the BRICS Skate Cup 2026, an international festival of street culture and action sports being held in Ryazan, Russia, starting on Thursday till Sunday. More than 500 athletes from around 30 countries are expected
to participate in the festival, which features skateboarding, roller sports and scootering, along with exhibitions, discussions and cultural programmes. For Rahul, however, the trip is about more than competition. Skateboarding has become his profession and way of life. "I never imagined I'd one day represent India at an international festival like the BRICS Skate Cup," Rahul said. "Representing my country is a huge responsibility and a chance to inspire others." His journey is particularly distinctive because Rahul is not a conventional full-time athlete. He is also a professional
skatepark builder, and says he has been involved in around 75 per cent of the projects undertaken by 100 Ramps Skate Park Construction in India. Much of his working life is spent with concrete rather than conventional training equipment building skateparks and then skating the streets and facilities he helps create. "I don't train like a typical athlete. For me, skateboarding is a lifestyle. I'm a skateboarder for life, more than just an athlete," he said. The BRICS Skate Cup will bring together some of the biggest names in the sport, including Argentina's Matias Dell Olio, a 2024 Olympic finalist and world
street skateboarding silver medallist, along with Russian champion Egor Kaldikov. But Rahul's presence carries its own significance. His journey from a skateboarder discovering the sport in Kovalam to an Indian representative on an international stage reflects how far India's skateboarding culture has travelled. For Rahul, the message is simple, passion can create opportunities far beyond the streets where the journey begins. "This is more than a competition," he said. "It is proof that passion and hard work can open global doors and take you anywhere."
From Theyyam to Tholpavakoothu, Kerala’s 3,000 dhotis bloom into an traditions take centre stage during Onam Week Onam Pookkalam in Kochi
Thiruvananthapuram Aug 29 (IANS)
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erala’s traditional art forms are getting a wider audience during the ongoing Onam Tourism Week celebrations, with the state Tourism Department giving special focus to folk and indigenous art forms at venues across the state. At the main venue in the state capital, Nishagandhi, a different traditional art form is being presented every day during the weeklong celebrations from August 24 to 30. Tholpavakoothu, Padayani, Arjuna Nirtham, Poothanum Thirayum, Theyyam, Ottamthullal, Sarppappattu, Duffmutt, Mudiyettu and Oppana are among the art forms being showcased. Kerala Tourism Minister P C Vishnunadh said traditional art forms were an important part of Kerala’s cultural tourism. Each district has at least two or three indigenous art forms,
carrying stories connected with the state’s history, mythology and culture. “These art forms bring together music, costumes, performance and traditions,” he said, adding that the Tourism and Cultural departments were keen to take these art forms to a wider audience. Padma Shri awardee and Tholpavakoothu exponent Ramachandra Pulavar welcomed the initiative, saying traditional artists needed larger platforms to reach new audiences. Pulavar, who led the Maveli Charitham Tholpavakoothu performance at Nishagandhi, said practitioners should also adapt their performances to contemporary audiences and explore new themes. He said language need not be a major barrier as digital translation tools could help explain traditional stories and performance techniques to people from different regions and countries. Pulavar has experimented with different narratives, including stories of Mahabali, Jesus Christ and the origin of Kerala. He also recalled filmmaker G Aravindan’s visit to his home and how a puppet of Goddess
Gangalekshmi inspired the logo of the International Film Festival of Kerala. For 72-year-old Poothanu Thira practitioner K M Unni Krishnan, such platforms are important for preserving the art form and supporting the communities that practise it. He began learning the art at the age of eight and now runs the Raman Smaraka Thira Poothana Sangam. Padayani veteran B Suresh Kumar said a performance could provide an income to around 20 artists. Government supported programmes such as the Onam festival, he said, give traditional artists an opportunity to sustain their art and livelihood. He suggested organising a separate festival dedicated to Kerala’s traditional art forms and bringing practitioners together to explore ways to develop and preserve them. Arjuna Nirtham exponent Kurichi Nadeshan called for increased financial support to the Kerala Folklore Academy to protect the state’s traditional arts. The Onam Tourism Week celebrations will end on Sunday, bringing Kerala’s classical, folk and ethnic traditions before a wider audience, including tourists.
Kochi, Aug 23 (IANS)
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n Kerala, the humble white dhoti known locally as the 'mundu' is usually worn, not arranged in a flower carpet. This Onam, however, nearly 3,000 of them have been made to bloom. At Kochi's Forum Mall, Ramraj Cotton has created a spectacular 30-foot-diameter 'Mundukalam', transforming the traditional Kerala garment into an enormous pookkalam, the floral carpet that is synonymous with Onam celebrations. The unusual creation has earned a place in the Asia Book of Records as Asia's largest pookkalam made using mundus. Mundus in a variety of colours have been meticulously arranged into an elaborate design, creating a striking visual spectacle that has drawn crowds of visitors to the mall. The installation brings together two powerful symbols of Malayali
culture, the traditional garment worn by generations of Keralites and the colourful floral carpets laid outside homes during Onam. The idea also gives a contemporary twist to one of Kerala's oldest festive traditions. Every year, as Onam approaches, homes across Kerala begin preparing pookkalams with flowers gathered from gardens, markets and surrounding countryside. The floral designs grow larger and more elaborate as the festival progresses, symbolising prosperity, togetherness and the joyous welcome extended to Mahabali, the legendary king whose annual return is celebrated during Onam. The Mundukalam takes that familiar tradition and replaces petals with fabric, turning thousands of pieces of clothing into a giant canvas of colour and pattern. For Ramraj Cotton, the initiative is also a celebration of the dhoti itself, a garment that, despite the changing fashions of modern India, remains deeply woven into Kerala's cultural identity. Known as the mundu in Kerala, the simple, elegant garment continues to be an essential part of festive and ceremonial wear.
Ziro Festival must remain rooted in Arunachal’s tribal heritage: Guv communities.
Itanagar, Aug 22 (IANS)
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runachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen K.T. Parnaik (Retd) on Saturday emphasised that the Ziro Festival and its outreach programmes should remain firmly rooted in the rich cultural traditions and indigenous heritage of the state's tribal
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The Team Ziro Festival, including co‑founders Bobby Hano and Anup Kutty, called on the Governor at Lok Bhavan, Itanagar. During the discussion, the Governor said that while contemporary music and international participation enhance the festival’s appeal, traditional music, folk arts, local cuisine, handicrafts, and indigenous knowledge systems must be given equal importance. He observed that cultural tourism flourishes when visitors experience the authentic spirit,
traditions and way of life of a place. The Governor appreciated Team Ziro Festival for successfully organising the festival regularly and said it was more than a celebration of music. Advising the organisers to preserve authenticity, protect the environment and empower local youth, he said the Ziro Festival must continue to inspire visitors while bringing pride and prosperity to the state. Team Ziro Festival briefed the Governor about the festival, one of India’s most celebrated
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independent music and cultural events, and its outreach initiative, Ziro On Tour – Valley Vibe, City Tribe, which aims to take the music, culture, artists and creative communities of Arunachal Pradesh and the wider Northeast to audiences across India and abroad. They expressed their desire to take the festival to other parts of the country, including Hyderabad, Puducherry and Chandigarh. The Governor was informed that taking the festival to these cities would require sponsorship as well as acceptance and coordination
at the respective destinations. Lt Gen Parnaik (Retd) advised the organisers to take up the proposal with the state government so they could coordinate with the concerned state governments and mobilise funds through sponsorship. He assured them of all possible assistance at his level for the venture. He also encouraged the organisers to use the festival as a catalyst for youth empowerment and rural economic growth.
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SPORTS
Women’s Asia Cup: Shafali, Deepti star as India thrash the Under-19 World Cup and the Men's T20 World Cup in February Thailand by 94 runs 2026.
Women’s Asia Cup: Will speak about it when we play that game, says Muzumdar on handshake with Pakistan
Dubai, Aug 29 (IANS) India head coach Amol Muzumdar on Saturday brushed aside queries regarding the handshake protocol for their scheduled clash against Pakistan on September 5, asserting that the team's entire focus is locked on doing well in their Women's Asia Cup opener against Thailand on Sunday. “Look, we try to play the best cricket on the ground and off the field stuff, we don't focus on it. We try to play the best cricket that we know on that particular day and we will speak about this when we play that game. But at the moment, we are focusing on tomorrow's game. One game at a time,” Muzumdar said in the prematch press conference. The strict no-handshake policy
observed by Indian cricket teams against Pakistani opposition traces back to September 2025 during the Men's Asia Cup, following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025. In that tournament, the Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian side avoided any kind of handshakes with Salman Ali Agha's team across all three of their encounters, including the title clash. Since then, the protocol has been consistently upheld across senior, age-group, and women's cricket tournaments. The Indian women's team maintained the policy during their Women's ODI World Cup fixture against Pakistan in Colombo in October 2025, while Indian players stuck to the protocol at the Men's Rising Stars Asia Cup in November 2025. The stance continued into agegroup and world events over the subsequent months. The policy remained intact through both India-Pakistan matches at the Under-19 Asia Cup in December 2025, and no handshakes were exchanged during encounters at
Most recently, in June 2026, Harmanpreet Kaur's team maintained the ongoing stance, opting not to shake hands with the Pakistani captain and players during the Women's T20 World Cup clash in Birmingham. In the pre-tournament press conference in Dubai, Harmanpreet didn’t give a clear answer when asked if handshakes would happen when the India-Pakistan clash takes place at the Dubai International Stadium. Meanwhile, India enter the continental tournament as the most successful team in the history of the event, having lifted the trophy seven times previously. Asked whether the team is eyeing an eighth Asia Cup title in the UAE, Muzumdar refused to look too far down the road. “I don't want to go too far ahead. One game at a time. We will focus on tomorrow's game,” he stated bluntly.
Priya Punia’s record-breaking ton powers South Delhi Superstarz to 71-run win against East Delhi Riders
New Delhi, Aug 30 (IANS) South Delhi Superstarz produced a dominant all-round performance to register a 71-run victory over East Delhi Riders in the Women’s Delhi Premier League (DPL) fixture at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The Superstarz were powered by a spectacular century from opener Priya Punia, who delivered one of the standout batting performances of the tournament. The right-handed
batter smashed 117 off 66 balls, with her innings featuring 13 fours and six sixes. Her sensational knock was the second century in Women’s DPL history and also the highest individual score in the competition. Punia took charge from the beginning and attacked the East Delhi bowling attack with confidence. She found the boundaries regularly and kept the scoring rate high, ensuring that South Delhi maintained control of the innings. Her aggressive approach also allowed the batters at the other end to play their shots freely. The Superstarz built a strong total on the back of Punia’s brilliant knock and put East Delhi under pressure even before the chase began. The bowlers then completed the job with a disciplined performance, making sure that the Riders never settled into a comfortable rhythm.
Chasing a challenging target, East Delhi Riders struggled to find momentum in the early stages. South Delhi’s bowlers kept the pressure on by picking up wickets at regular intervals, reducing the Riders to 61/5 in the 14th over and leaving them with a mountain to climb. With wickets already down, they could not find the big partnerships or boundaries needed to put pressure back on the Superstarz. East Delhi eventually finished on 110/6 in their 20 overs, falling well short of the target. The win highlighted South Delhi Superstarz’s strength in all departments, with their batting setting up the game before the bowling unit ensured there was no way back for East Delhi. For Punia, meanwhile, the recordbreaking 117 will remain the biggest highlight of a memorable performance.
Dubai, Aug 30 (IANS) India opened their Women’s Asia Cup 2026 campaign in emphatic fashion, registering a thumping 94-run victory over Thailand at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, with Shafali Verma's 19th T20I half-century setting up the win before the bowlers dismantled the Thai batting lineup. In pursuit of 160 to win the match, Thailand were all out for only 65 in 16.1 over, with wicket-keeper batter Nannapat Koncharoenkai, being the only player to offer any real resistance by scoring 41 off 48 balls. India's innings began very well after they chose to bat first. Smriti Mandhana was playing well, scoring 19 runs off 10 balls, but was then run out. Pratika Rawal, making her T20I debut, was off to a promising start by scoring 22 runs off 18 balls before Shafali took over in the innings. The brilliant Shafali's overwhelmed the Thai reply by scoring 64 runs off 36 balls,
Gobena, Jepchirchir win 2026 Sydney Marathon
Ankit, Anmol power South Delhi Superstarz to Adani DPL 2026 title with seven-wicket win
New Delhi, Aug 31 (IANS) South Delhi Superstarz produced a commanding batting performance to clinch the Adani Delhi Premier
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League T20 2026 title, defeating Central Delhi Kings by seven wickets in the final. Chasing 183 for victory, South Delhi Superstarz reached 186/3 in 18.2 overs, completing a comfortable run chase and sealing the championship in style. The foundation of the chase was laid by Ankit, who remained unbeaten on a brisk 62 off 34 balls, while Anmol also struck an unbeaten 62 off 41 balls. The pair put South Delhi firmly in control and ensured there was little
pressure on the chasing side in the latter stages. Earlier, Central Delhi Kings posted 182/8 in their allotted 20 overs. Samarth top-scored with a quick 51 off 27 balls, while Jonty contributed 36 off 19 and Yugal made 32 off 29. Money added a late 18 off just seven deliveries. For South Delhi, Divansh was the pick of the bowlers with 3/17, while Vision claimed 2/17. Pranshu and Anshuman picked up one wicket each.
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consisting of eight powerful fours and three sixes, thus marking her 19th T20I half-century and securing India a firm lead. India were at 91/1 after 8.5 overs and seemed on the verge of making a large total, but a sudden collapse altered the course of the innings. India fell from 91/1 after 8.5 overs to 137/9 by the end of 17.2 overs as a result of a number of mild dismissals, Deepti Sharma, the all-rounder, also being run out during the collapse. Suleeporn Laomi from Thailand was the most prominent bowler, taking 3 wickets for 26 runs from her four overs; she also contributed to Deepti's wicket by delivering a direct hit that got her run out. India were in real danger of falling far short of a competitive score, but it was Kranti Gaud who gave them the necessary push at the end. Scoring 15 runs off eight balls, she helped India to 159 all out, which gave their bowlers a target they could defend.
Sydney, Aug 30 (IANS) Ethiopian athlete Addisu Gobena and Kenyan athlete Peres Jepchirchir won the 2026 Sydney Marathon on Sunday, with a record 40,000 runners taking part.
Gobena won the men's race on Sunday morning in a time of two hours, four minutes and 42 seconds, setting a new course record and shaving off more than one minute from 2025 winner Hailemaryam Kiros's time of 2:06:06, reports Xinhua. Ethiopian Chimdessa Debele Gudeta finished second in a time of 2:04:46, while Lesotho's Tebello Ramakongoana rounded out the podium in a time of 2:04:57. Olympic gold medalist Jepchirchir won the women's race in a time of 2:18:31, ahead of compatriot Irene Cheptai in second in 2:22:11 and Ethiopia's Shure Demise Ware in third in 2:22:33. The Sydney Marathon was named the seventh Abbott World Marathon Major in November 2024 and officially joined the series in 2025.
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SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
86 pc Indian organisations say AI or Agentic 57 pc Indian office occupiers say AI not affecting leasing decisions AI transforming recruitment processes
New Delhi, Aug 27 (IANS) About 86 per cent of Indian organisations report that AI or Agentic AI is transforming their recruitment processes, with resume screening, assessments and candidate engagement emerging as key use cases, a report showed on Thursday. India’s campus hiring landscape is becoming more strategic, AI-driven and skills-focused, as
organisations increase investment in early-career talent and strengthen internship-to-hire programmes. Deloitte India’s ‘Campus Workforce Trends 2026’ finds that recruitment budgets rose 19 per cent, while 80 per cent of organisations now have dedicated campus hiring teams. Resume screening (72 per cent) remains the leading use case, while 35 per cent say AI is creating new entry-level roles or skill requirements, up from 21 per cent in FY25. AI and data skills command 20–25 per cent hiring premiums, while analytical thinking and problem-solving
attract 10–15 per cent. “Internships are becoming a stronger pathway to fulltime employment, with PPO conversions improving across degree categories. Behavioural competencies (75 per cent) and learning agility (72 per cent) are the strongest predictors of conversion. Improved talent matching has also reduced infant attrition among Top 10 and Tier 1 hires from 18 per cent to 15 per cent,” the findings showed. Moreover, compensation grew moderately at 2-4 per cent CAGR from FY22–FY26, while institute tier, specialisation and critical skills increasingly determine pay.
Govt okays transfer of DRDO’s missile tech to defence industry in Aatmanirbharta push
New Delhi, Aug 25 (IANS) In a significant step towards achieving the vision of 'Aatmanirbharta', Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the transfer of DRDO-developed technologies of all conventional missile systems to the Indian defence industry for production within the country, according to an official statement issued on Tuesday. This transfer of technology marks an important milestone in promoting greater participation of domestic industries in the
defence ecosystem by enabling them to undertake indigenous production, in accordance with the applicable qualifications, certifications and regulatory requirements. The provision will enable successful transition of missile system development to industrial production, reflecting the continued efforts of DRDO to leverage the capabilities of the Indian industry for the development and manufacture of advanced defence systems. The objective is to enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities, strengthen the defence industrial base and create opportunities for the participation of Indian MSMEs and other technology partners in the supply chain, the statement from the Ministry of Defence said. The initiative aims to enhance
operational capability, reduce import dependence and increase domestic value addition, while supporting the growth of India's defence manufacturing sector. "DRDO remains committed to working closely with Indian industry to facilitate the transfer and absorption of advanced defence technologies and to further strengthen the country's indigenous defence capabilities," the statement added. The decision comes close on the heels of the Department of Defence Production notifying, last week, the sixth positive indigenisation list comprising 405 strategically important items with an estimated business potential of Rs 3,070 crore aimed at strengthening local manufacturing and reducing dependence on imports.
Spectacled cobras in India genetically same despite visible differences
Kolkata, Aug 25 (IANS) The Evolutionary Venomics Lab (EVL) has carried out vital research on the spectacled cobra (Naja naja), one of the most venomous snakes found in nearly all parts of the country. This snake contributes to nearly 58,000 snakebite deaths in India annually. Hence, the research is crucial in developing more efficient anti-venoms to save lives. The research has also all but dispelled the theory that spectacled cobras migrated from Asia to Africa. In fact, it is the other way around. N. naja moved
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to Asia from Africa during the Miocene (23 to 5.3 million years ago). It moved through the Middle East. These reptiles then moved from India to Sri Lanka millions of years ago. "The spectacled cobra is among the most iconic and clinically significant species, recognised as one of India’s ‘big four’ snakes responsible for a large number of snakebite-related fatalities. As a generalist with a nearcountrywide distribution, N. naja exhibits considerable geographic variation in morphology, behaviour, and venom composition. Yet, its evolutionary history, phylogenetic diversity, and biogeographical origins remain poorly understood," a research paper published by the lab says. Researchers sequenced nuclear and mitochondrial markers from nearly 100 snakes across the
major biogeographical regions of the Indian subcontinent to fill this knowledge gap. "Our results support an African origin for the genus Naja and support a Miocene dispersal of N. naja into South Asia. Unlike many widely distributed snakes, N. naja does not exhibit any evidence of phylogeographic subdivision within India, indicating that it is a largely panmictic mainland species," the researchers have said. Kartik Sunagar, an associate professor at EVL who has been involved in this research, explains what this means. "This is not just a matter of naming snakes. When a species is spread across a vast area, rivers, mountains, deserts, climate, or sea-level changes can separate populations. Over thousands or millions of years,
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New Delhi, Aug 27 (IANS) Despite the growing weight of artificial intelligence (AI) in corporate strategy, 57 per cent of office occupiers in India said it has no material impact on their leasing decisions, a report said on Thursday. The report from CBRE South Asia said about 93 per cent of over 200 occupiers surveyed are at some stage of AI implementation, but roughly 59 per cent remain in early or exploratory phases testing proofs‑of‑concept and mapping systemic changes before committing capital or restructuring physical assets. AI is at an advanced or scaled adoption stage for a third of the cohort, driving immediate changes in how talent is deployed and physical workspaces are utilised, the report said. While a majority do not expect immediate changes to leasing strategies, occupiers are likely to prioritise high‑quality workplaces
that support talent attraction, innovation and advanced technology needs, the report added. A large proportion of organisations are likely to plan their real estate decisions based on their workforce dynamics and business impact of their AI strategies. Meanwhile, a section of occupiers anticipated AI creating new opportunities for workforce growth as organisations scale emerging capabilities and technology-led functions. “While AI adoption is becoming increasingly widespread, business maturity and the pace of deployment will ultimately determine its impact on workforce requirements and, consequently, future leasing decisions,” said Anshuman Magazine, Chairman and CEOIndia, South-East Asia, Middle East and Africa, CBRE. “As organisations continue to transition from experimentation to scaled implementation, the implications for headcount, workplace strategies, and space demand are likely to evolve over time,” he added,
India’s private space sector reaches orbit as European industry still struggles: Report
New Delhi, Aug 25 (IANS) India’s private space sector marked a milestone in July, which Europe is yet to achieve, when Skyroot Aerospace became the first Indian private company to reach orbit with a domestically developed launcher, according to a new report. "The achievement is significant despite the vehicle’s relatively modest size compared with launch systems operated by competitors in China, Russia, or the United States," the report from The European Conservative said. Skyroot Aerospace successfully placed multiple payloads into low Earth orbit with its Vikram‑1 rocket. The report argued that India can offer competition, additional capacity and “a new reference point for the European space industry.” The United States and China no longer remain the only contenders in the commercial space race as “India has now entered it with its own hardware, and Europe has every reason to pay attention,” it added. The report suggested European operators collaborate with India for certain commercial, university
or scientific payloads, diversifying an international launch market that remains heavily dependent on the United States. Despite increased launches in 2025 following the introduction of Ariane 6 and Vega‑C, it remains only a small fraction of a global market overwhelmingly dominated by the United States and China. Further, the European Space Agency faces a potential capacity crunch for strategic programmes such as Galileo and Copernicus between 2029 and 2031 as new requirements could exceed the launch capacity available. Several state‑backed private launcher projects in Europe have yet to deliver an operational orbital service. India’s space programme was almost entirely dominated by the state for over half a century. ISRO took the country from its first experiments in the 1960s to developing indigenous launch vehicles, reaching Mars in 2014 and landing near the Moon’s south pole with Chandrayaan-3 in 2023. In 2020, the government opened the sector to private companies and created IN-SPACe to facilitate their access to public facilities, testing infrastructure and launch sites. The 2023 space policy completed the reform by separating ISRO’s research role, public commercial activity and the emerging private ecosystem.
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HEALTH
MP govt to use digital systems to bridge healthcare Medical feat in West Bengal: gap in remote areas: Dy CM Shukla Doctors successfully perform
Bhopal, Aug 25 (IANS) The Madhya Pradesh government will use digital health systems to bridge the healthcare gap in remote areas and ensure that advanced medical services are accessible to people at the last mile, Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla said on Tuesday. Addressing a state-level
workshop on the Model District and Model Health Institution initiative under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) at the Kushabhau Thakre International Convention Centre in Bhopal, Shukla added that digital healthcare would make medical services more accessible, transparent and citizen-centric. "Digital health services can ensure that people living in the remotest parts of the state get easy access to quality and advanced healthcare. This should be our collective goal," the Deputy Chief Minister said. Shukla, who is leading the state's health department, said that he
has directed officials to ensure effective implementation of digital health systems in selected model districts and health institutions and replicate their successful practices across other facilities. He said the Model District and Model Health Institution initiative should not be treated merely as a technology project but as a broader effort to transform the delivery of healthcare services. Deputy CM Shukla also called for more effective use of telemedicine in rural areas, saying it could help people access medical consultation without having to travel long distances.
Safdarjung doctors script new milestone, perform first robot-assisted total knee replacement
New Delhi, Aug 23 (IANS) The Central Institute of Orthopaedics (CIO) at VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital achieved a major milestone in advanced orthopaedic care, with the successful completion of its first robot-assisted Total Knee Replacement (TKR), thereby expanding the availability of technology-enabled surgical treatment within the public healthcare system. The procedure was successfully performed on August 22 on a 75-year-old economically disadvantaged male patient and
was carried out completely free of cost under the Ayushman Bharat scheme at the Central Government hospital. The introduction of robotassisted orthopaedic surgery at the Central Institute of Orthopaedics has been undertaken with the leadership, support and encouragement of Dr Kavita Sharma, Director, VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital. The initiative is aimed at strengthening the hospital’s capacity to provide advanced orthopaedic treatment using modern surgical technology. The landmark procedure was performed under the clinical guidance of Prof. Dr Sumit Sural, Director of the Central Institute of Orthopaedics. The surgical team was led by Dr Bhagwati Prasad Sharma, Consultant
Professor and Head of Unit. The orthopaedic team included Dr Bhagwati Prasad Sharma, Dr Dhruve Maini and Dr Kartik Yadav. The anaesthesia team was led by Dr Sushil Guria, while operating theatre nursing staff Sister Rekha and Ritika and technical staff led by Vijender provided essential support during the procedure. The hospital said the successful surgery demonstrates its commitment to making advanced surgical technology accessible to patients from economically weaker sections. Performing the procedure free of cost under the Ayushman Bharat framework also highlights the potential for sophisticated robotic-assisted treatment to be integrated into public healthcare.
Mental health must receive attention amid modern lifestyle pressures: Gujarat Health Minister
Gandhinagar, Aug 22 (IANS) Greater awareness of depression and mental stress is needed alongside efforts to protect people from infectious diseases, Gujarat Health Minister Praful Pansheriya said on Saturday as he inaugurated the 16th annual conference of the Clinical Infectious Diseases Society (CIDS) at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar. Speaking at CIDSCON 2026, being held on the theme “Addressing AMR: From Awareness to Action”, Pansheriya said mental well-being and physical health must receive equal attention, particularly amid the pressures of modern lifestyles and the impact of global infectious diseases such as COVID-19. He stressed the need to create
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greater awareness about serious issues such as depression and mental stress and to address them appropriately. Maintaining mental resilience, he said, had become increasingly important in the present circumstances. The minister also raised concern over the indiscriminate use of antibiotics, particularly the prescription of high-dose or stronger antibiotics for minor and common illnesses at small clinics. "Such practices could become a major public health threat in the future. The state government would soon organise a statewide awareness programme involving doctors from different systems of medicine, including allopathic, Ayurvedic and homoeopathic practitioners, to address inappropriate antibiotic use," he said. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme, he said self-medication without medical advice is reducing the
effectiveness of antibiotics even in common infections such as pneumonia and urinary tract infections. He urged doctors to educate patients about the importance of completing the prescribed course of antibiotics rather than stopping treatment midway. "The fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR) could not be left to the Health Department alone and required the collective responsibility of doctors, hospitals, pharmacists and citizens," he said. He stressed the need to strengthen antimicrobial stewardship programmes and infection-control systems in hospitals. He also said Gujarat is strengthening early-warning surveillance and laboratorybased monitoring through digital platforms such as the Gujarat State AMR Surveillance Network and the AMR Dashboard to help identify and control diseases in time.
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C-section on CMT patient
Midnapore, Aug 25 (IANS) Doctors at Midnapore Medical College and Hospital in West Bengal have successfully performed a Caesarean section on a 25-year-old woman suffering from the rare neurological disorder Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease. Both the mother and newborn are reported to be healthy. According to hospital sources, the surgery is believed to be the first such procedure performed on a CMT patient in the district. The successful operation has been described by doctors as a significant medical achievement, particularly because of the challenges involved in administering anaesthesia to the patient. The woman, identified as Sonamoni Giri, a resident of Mohanpur in East Midnapore's Egra area, was admitted to Midnapore Medical College for the second time during her
pregnancy. Medical tests revealed that she was suffering from CMT disease, a hereditary neurological disorder that affects the peripheral nerves and can cause weakness in the hands and feet, difficulty in walking and problems with movement. Doctors said administering anaesthesia to a patient with CMT requires particular caution. The risk can increase if the respiratory muscles are affected, making close monitoring essential during and after surgery. Although the Caesarean procedure itself took around one-and-a-half hours, doctors spent nearly four to five hours on preparation and anaesthesiarelated monitoring to minimise potential complications. Suman Chatterjee, head of the hospital's anaesthesia department, and Professor Bijoy Kumar Bandopadhyay said the procedure involved considerable risk but was carried out with utmost caution. “The risk was considerable, but we succeeded,” the doctors said. Both the woman and kid are healthy after the procedure, they added.
WHO, Africa CDC declare end of Ebola outbreak in Uganda
Kampala, Aug 27 (IANS) The World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) on Thursday declared the end of the Ebola outbreak in Uganda after 42 consecutive days without a new confirmed case since the country's last patient was discharged. The WHO Regional Office for Africa said in a press release that the completion of the 42-day period, equivalent to twice the upper limit of Ebola's incubation period, is a critical step in ensuring that no chains of transmission associated with the last imported case have been missed. "Uganda has demonstrated that with decisive action, Ebola outbreaks can be brought under control quickly," WHO DirectorGeneral Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus was quoted as saying, Xinhua News Agency reported. "With a focus on preparedness, increased surveillance to find potential cases in health facilities and communities, and careful management of points of entry,
countries can keep people and goods moving while ensuring people stay safe, or receive care if they are sick," he added. The WHO said Uganda, with support from national and international partners, rapidly interrupted local transmission and prevented wider spread through strong government leadership and early, comprehensive measures, including case detection and confirmation, contact tracing, isolation and clinical care. "Uganda has shown that Ebola can be stopped when leadership acts decisively, communities are trusted and public health systems reach people quickly," said Africa CDC Director-General Jean Kaseya. "This is a victory for Uganda and an important lesson for our continent. We must now protect this achievement while accelerating the response in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). We will only be secure when transmission is stopped everywhere," Kaseya said. Uganda reported 20 confirmed Ebola cases during the outbreak, including two deaths, following the declaration of the outbreak on May 15. Fifteen cases were imported from the neighboring DRC, while five were locally acquired among contacts and health workers linked to the imported cases.
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WHAT’S ON
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WHAT’S ON
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PRAHAAR - THE UJJWAL NIKAM STORY
LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles) PRODUCER: Dinesh Vijan DIRECTOR: Avinash Arun CAST: Raj Kumar Rao, Wamiqa Gabbi, Tarun Sharma, Ashish Vidyarti, Sikandar Kher
KING
Subtitles)
RELEASE DATE: 16 October 2026
RELEASE DATE: 24 December 2026 LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English
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PRODUCER: Red Chillies Entertainment & Marflix Pictures DIRECTOR: Siddharth Anand CAST: Shah Rukh Khan
DAAYRA RELEASE DATE: 18 September 2026 LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles) PRODUCER: Vineet Jain and Jayantilal Gada
VVAN - FORCE OF THE FOREST
RELEASE DATE: 25 September 2026 LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles) PRODUCER: Ekta R Kapoor, Shobha Kapoor,
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NEW RELEASES
DIRECTOR: Meghna Gulzar CAST: Kareena Kapoor Khan, Prithviraj Sukumaran, and others
Deepak Kumar Mishra, Arunabh Kumar DIRECTOR: Arunabh Kumar and Deepak Kumar Mishra CAST: Sidharth Malhotra, Tamannaah Bhatia, and others
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Visakhapatnam: Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh Bishkek: Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets members of unveils the statue of former Chief Minister and Governor the Indian contingent during the opening ceremony of the 6th Konijeti Rosaiah at Siripuram Junction in Visakhapatnam World Nomad Games at Bishkek Arena in Bishkek, Kyrgyz on Monday, August 31, 2026. Republic, on Monday, August 31, 2026.
El Alamein: The Sarang Helicopter Display Team of the Indian Air Force arrives in Egypt to participate in the 2nd edition of the El Alamein International Airshow, scheduled from September 8 to 10, 2026, in El Alamein.
Osaka: Union Minister for Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal meets Naofumi Takenaka, President and COO of Daikin Industries Ltd., in Osaka, Japan, on Thursday, August 27, 2026.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Union Minister for Steel and Heavy Industries H. D. Kumaraswamy and JD(S) leader Nikhil Kumaraswamy during a meeting in New Delhi, Delhi, on Thursday, August 27, 2026.
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Bishkek: Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on Monday, August 31, 2026.
Bishkek: Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with a group of people who have a close association with India, including members of the Indian diaspora, environment enthusiasts, Yoga practitioners, academics, ITEC alumni and researchers, in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on Monday, August 31, 2026.
Varanasi: School students holding Tricolour flags take part in a Tiranga Yatra from Ausanganj ahead of Independence Day, in Varanasi, on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.
Ghaziabad: Indian Air Force and NDRF personnel near an Indian Air Force C-17 Globemaster aircraft carrying humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) material, medicines and food packets before it departs for flash flood-hit Nepal at Hindon Airbase in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, on Thursday, August 27, 2026.
PHOTO FEATURE
Bishkek: Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping hold a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, on Monday, August 31, 2026.
Dhading: Houses damaged by floodwaters following flooding in the Beni Ghat area of Dhading district, Nepal, on Wednesday, August 26, 2026.
Samba: School girls tie rakhis on the wrists of BSF personnel during Amritsar: Punjab government employees and pensioners raise slogans during a statewide strike outside the closed OPD Raksha Bandhan celebrations in the Samba sector of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday, August 27, 2026. of Guru Nanak Hospital in Amritsar, Punjab, on Thursday, August 27, 2026.
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BOLLYWOOD COVERAGE
Mumbai: Indian actress and dancer Malaika Arora, author Shalini Passi and Indian fashion designer and actress Anaita Shroff Adajania pose for photographs on the set of Pitch to Get Rich in Mumbai on Saturday,
Mumbai: Actor Pankaj Tripathi with wife Mridula Tripathi attends AKK Mahotsav 2026 at The Club in Andheri, Mumbai, on Sunday, August 30, 2026.
Mumbai: Actress Mouni Roy poses for photographs during India’s Best Wedding Makers (IBWM) Conclave 2026 in Mumbai on Saturday, August 29, 2026.
Mumbai: Filmmaker and film producer Karan Johar spotted on the set of ‘Pitch to Get Rich’ in Mumbai on Sunday, August 30, 2026.
New Delhi: Actor Bhuvan Bam during the trailer launch of ‘The Revolutionaries’ at Sunder Nursery, in New Delhi, on Wednesday, August 26, 2026.
Mumbai: Actors Emraan Hashmi and Disha Patani during the success party of the film ‘Awarapan 2’ in Mumbai on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.
Patna: Actors Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal and Divyenndu address a press conference for their upcoming ‘Mirzapur’ film in Patna on Saturday, August 22, 2026.
Mumbai: Actor Sonam Kapoor at an exclusive evening hosted by Birdhichand Ghanshyamdas in Mumbai on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.
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Mumbai: Internet personality Nivedita during the launch of Goodhairr Professional in association with ELLE India in Mumbai, Maharashtra, on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.
Mumbai: Actor Malaika Arora spotted on the set of ‘Pitch to Get Rich’ in Mumbai on Sunday, August 30, 2026.
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Mumbai: Bollywood actress Tara Sutaria poses for photos at the Mahalaxmi Race Course in Mumbai on Monday, August 24,
New Delhi: Actor Rohit Saraf during the trailer launch of ‘The Revolutionaries’ at Sunder Nursery, in New Delhi, on Wednesday, August 26, 2026.
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INDIA NEWS
ENTERTAINMENT
Raiza Wilson’s horror Susan Sarandon mourns Tim Curry’s death: What a funny, sexy, original he was science-fiction fantasy thriller
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ctress Susan Sarandon paid a tribute to Tim Curry, remembering him as a “funny, sexy, original” talent and praising his kind heart, especially towards his fans even after he became wheelchair-bound. Tim Curry, who gained popularity for playing the outlandish FrankN-Furter in the film musical The Rocky Horror Picture Show, passed away aged 80. The star died peacefully at his home in Los
Angeles on August 25. Susan took to Instagram, where she shared a string of throwback pictures of herself and Curry from their younger days. She wrote in the caption: “What a funny, sexy, original he was. But what I loved about him most was his heart. Even wheelchair bound he continued to be so sweet and generous with his fans. Thank you Tim for meaning so much to so many people. Love you, S.” Curry also starred as the
fearsome clown Pennywise in the 1990 TV version of Stephen King's It. His other credits included Annie, The Hunt for Red October, Home Alone 2, Scary Movie 2 and he was nominated for three Tony Awards on Broadway. Talking about Sarandon, she has a career spanning over five decades. The actress has been feted with numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, an Actor Award, and a British Academy Film Award, in addition to nominations for seven Emmy Awards, ten Golden Globes, and a Grammy Award. Sarandon made her film debut in Joe and appeared on the soap operas A World Apart and Search for Tomorrow. She gained prominence for her role in the musical horror film The Rocky Horror Picture Show. After receiving four Oscar nominations for Atlantic City, Thelma & Louise, Lorenzo's Oil, and The Client, Sarandon won the Academy Award for Best Actress for playing Helen Prejean in Dead Man Walking. Her other notable films include Pretty Baby, The Hunger, The Witches of Eastwick, Bull Durham, Little Women, Stepmom, Enchanted, The Lovely Bones, Cloud Atlas, Tammy, and The Meddler.
‘Nova’ to hit screens in September
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he makers of director Milo's eagerly awaited horror science-fiction supernatural fantasy thriller 'Nova', featuring actress Raiza Wilson in the lead, on Wednesday announced that their film would not hit screens in September this year. Taking to his Instagram page, director Milo wrote, "She didn’t come looking for this world… This world was never ready for her arrival. Sivagami — The Arrival.” He also shared a poster that read,
"In theatres from September." It may be recalled that Raiza Wilson had disclosed that she had braved blood-sucking leeches, constant mist and rain among other things to shoot for this film. Raiza, who is best known for her performance in 'Pyaar Prema Kaadhal', while sharing her experience of working on the eagerly awaited film, had said, “The film is structured like a story within a story. I play an important character that appears in the flashback portions."
Kriti Sanon responds to criticism over wearing
Haryanvi singer, YouTuber bralette style blouse for Raksha Bandhan ad Ankit Baliyan shot dead outside Kriti Sanon has Actress responded to trolls who gym in Uttar Pradesh
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aryanvi singer and YouTuber Ankit Baliyan was gunned down by unidentified assailants outside a gym in Shamli, Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday. The attackers opened fire on Baliyan as he stepped out of the gym. He was critically injured, and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead on arrival. As per media reports, the 4 unidentified assailants fired 20 rounds for about two minutes. In the firing, five bullets hit Ankit's car and around 8 bullets hit Ankit. Enraged over the incident, the villagers blocked the road near
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Verma Market in the city. Police launched an investigation, including examination of CCTV footage, while his family sought the arrest of the accused. The singer was a popular face in the Haryanvi entertainment industry, and his digital presence centred heavily on hyper-local Haryanvi pop music videos, swagger-driven portrayals, and podcasts. He became particularly known for songs associated with the contemporary Haryanvi music scene, including Ek Khtola Jail Ke Bhitar, Savidhan, 112 NE and Haridwar Haryane Ka. His music and videos helped him develop a sizable online following, with his YouTube channel reportedly accumulating hundreds of millions of views. His career was relatively recent, with his professional music journey gaining momentum around 2023. His work reflected the increasingly popular Haryanvi sound that blends regional identity, energetic performances and contemporary production. His music content prominently featured themes of regional pride, "Desi" attitude, rural grit, and high-energy law-and-order tropes, evident in hit titles revolving around gun culture and local politics.
have been criticizing her for her choice of attire in a recent Raksha Bandhan advertisement.
Kriti shared a note on her Instagram handle on Tuesday, where she pointed out that the essence of any festival lies in the emotions, and not in the clothes we wear. The 'Mimi' actress was recently seen wearing an off-white ensemble featuring a bralettestyle blouse, a cape, and a draped skirt for an advertisement for a jewellery brand named GIVA on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan. The ad led to a massive online debate, with a large number of netizens saying that Kriti's outfit was not appropriate for a campaign around a traditional Indian festival. Now reacting to the trolls, Kriti wrote on the photo-sharing app, “The essence of festivals is not in the clothes you wear, it is in the emotions and meaning you hold for the traditions. Rakshabandhan is a bond of protection. My sister and I tie rakhi to each other. We know we can protect each other no less than a brother would have. We pray for each other’s health, happiness & long life. And for us, this prayer and promise extends to our dogs too! Afterall, they are family! (sic)."
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The 'Cocktail 2' actress further stressed that a woman's respect for her culture should not be judged by the clothes she wears. "Also, when will we stop telling women what to wear?? Ethnic fashion has evolved over the
years, but still a woman’s respect for her culture is measured with just her clothes!! Culture & Traditions are in her heart, not in her neckline!," the note concluded.
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Blake Lively awarded $400,000 in attorneys’ fees in during ongoing Justin Baldoni case
Chiranjeevi Backs Women-Led Telugu Films
ENTERTAINMENT
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ongratulating actress Samantha and the unit of her successful film 'Maa Inti Bangaram', Megastar Chiranjeevi on Tuesday observed that films like 'Maa Inti Bangaram', with diversity and women in the lead, were needed for the Telugu film industry. Taking to his X timeline to pen a congratulatory post to Samantha, who not only played the lead but also produced the film, Chiranjeevi in Telugu said 'Maa Inti Bangaram' felt very interesting.
Samay Raina quips ‘Maharashtra cyber and I go way He pointed that the film had back’ as he gets felicitated by Maharashtra CM
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fter being questioned by the Maharashtra Cyber Cell over his show India’s Got Latent, comedian Samay Raina sprinkled laughter to his past run-ins with them as he has been felicitated by the cyber cell for promoting awareness.
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ollywood actress Blake Lively received roughly $400,000 in attorneys’ fees after a judge awarded the amount in her dispute with her ‘It Ends With Us’ co-star Justin Baldoni. However, it is half of what she had sought during the filings. Lively and Baldoni settled their 18-month legal war in May, avoiding a federal trial that was scheduled for later that month, reports ‘Variety’. At the time, the only loose end was Lively’s motion for attorneys’ fees for having to defend against Baldoni’s failed defamation suit.
As per ‘Variety’, Judge Lewis Liman awarded her $363,000 in attorneys’ fees and another $44,000 in court costs. In his ruling, the judge found that Lively was entitled only to the “reasonable” fees related to defending against the defamation suit. Liman ruled that while the attorneys’ billing rates were “not unreasonable”, given the high stakes of the case and the complexity of the issues, “(t) he number of hours for which Lively seeks reimbursement is unreasonable”.
Rakshan’s next film titled ‘Mary Gold’; veteran actors Prabhu, Sukanya to reunite on screen after 31 years!
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he makers of director Priyan Rajendran's upcoming action entertainer, featuring actor Rakshan in the lead, have now announced the title of the film as 'Mary Gold'. The film, which is being produced by well known production house Trident Arts, is being produced by R. Ravindran and co-produced by Sudharsan. The film is Trident Arts's 21st production.
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Sources close to the unit of the film say that actress Namritha plays the female lead in this film, which will be set against the backdrop of Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi. One other highlight about this upcoming project is that it will mark the reunion of the popular on-screen pair, Prabhu and Sukanya, after 31 years. The duo had previously starred together in films such as 'Senthamizh Paattu', 'Chinna Mappillai' and 'Mr. Madras'. Sources hint at 'Mary Gold' being an engaging and fast-paced story. Set in southern Tamil Nadu, the film, sources have revealed, will revolve around the intriguing rivalry between characters from Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi, while exploring their distinctive lifestyles. At its heart, 'Mary Gold' will be an emotional family drama with an engaging narrative, they add and point out that the unit plans to shoot the film swiftly.
Samay was being felicitated for participating in an awareness film about cybercrimes by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at an event, where Maharashtra Cyber unveiled its cyber-awareness short film Digital Arrest and the 1930 Maharashtra Cyber Anthem. Raina, who contributed to both projects, went on to speak about the time when the cyber cell unit had registered complaints related to controversial comments made on his YouTube show India’s Got Latent. “Maharashtra cyber and I go way back,” Raina said leaving Fadnavis and other entertainment personalities in splits. He then quipped about how the Cyber Cell is very active. “The Maharashtra Cyber Cell is very active. I can tell you this for sure Today, for the first time
a cyber cell officer picked up a comedian from his home only to felicitate him,” said Samay. This comment left Fadnavis bursting out in laughter. Samay also joked about how he already had Maharashtra Cyber’s number saved because he often got calls from them during his India’s Got Latent controversy. "Thank you for the felicitation, sir. My association with Maha Cyber has been going on for a very long time. 1930 is really a great
number. I have actually saved it because I often get calls from there," he said. Samay first performed at multiple open mics since 2017. He began opening for well-known comedians like Anirban Dasgupta and Abhishek Upmanyu in Pune. In 2019, he participated in Comicstaan 2 due to a suggestion from comedian Aakash Gupta. Later, he became the joint winner of Comicstaan 2.
‘Mandaadi’ teaser: Soori plays a sailor with grit!
T
he makers of director Mathimaran Pugazhendi's much-anticipated upcoming sports action drama 'Mandaadi', featuring actor Soori and Mahima Nambiar in the lead, have now
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released a gripping, action packed teaser of the film, much to the delight of fans and film buffs. Taking to its X timeline, R S Infotainment, the production house producing the film,
wrote, "A never seen before sports action drama from the heart of the ocean. The Spectacular #MANDAADI teaser out now. In worldwide theatres from September 10th. #MandaadiOnSept10th Starring @sooriofficial & #Suhas." The teaser released begins with sailors preparing their boats for a race. Sathyaraj's voice is heard in the background saying, "We are not keeping the competition alive and kicking. It's the competition that is keeping us alive and kicking." He is further heard saying, " If the players are true to the game, the wind and sea will never forsake them." The teaser gives viewers an impression that the film will be a grim sports drama in which Soori plays a sailor with grit and determination.
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