Sept 16-30, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 3
BRICS has evolved into an ecosystem Russian President Putin concludes India visit after of solutions: PM Modi
New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that the discussions over the past two days have strengthened belief that BRICS is an "ecosystem of solutions".
He also called for translating all outcomes into time-bound actions. "Our discussions over the past two days have further strengthened our belief that BRICS is not merely a grouping of nations, but an ecosystem of solutions. We hope that the New Delhi Declaration adopted at this summit will provide a clear direction for our shared vision and future cooperation. We
must translate all outcomes into time-bound actions and last-mile impact. We will work together to ensure that our framework moves beyond mere documentation and creates an impact in real life," said PM Modi in his concluding remarks at the BRICS Summit's session on 'Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability' at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. PM Modi expressed gratitude to BRICS leaders for their active
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18th BRICS Summit
New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) Russian President Vladimir Putin departed from New Delhi on Sunday after
attending the 18th BRICS Summit hosted by India. Union Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, saw off President Putin. "Honoured to see off H.E. President Vladimir Putin at Delhi airport following his visit to India for the BRICS Summit. India deeply values its Special and Continued on Page 3
Vietnam key partner in India’s Act East,MAHASAGAR, PM Modi held 15 bilateral meetings in three days as BRICS Indo-Pacific visions: EAM Jaishankar MAHASAGAR vision and wider of the India-Vietnam Joint Summit wraps in New Delhi Indo-Pacific vision. Commission Meeting ( JCM) on
New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) The highly successful 18th BRICS
Summit hosted by India at New Delhi's Bharat Mandapam once again showcased Prime Minister Narendra Modi's tireless energy and commitment towards nation as he not only attended and addressed the summit sessions but also held as many as 15 sitdown bilateral meetings with Continued on Page 3
New Delhi, Sep 14 (IANS) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Monday described Vietnam as a significant partner in advancing India's regional engagement, particularly under the Act East policy, the
He also stressed the importance of Vietnam under the framework of India's Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with ASEAN. In his opening remarks at the meeting with his Vietnamese counterpart Le Hoai Trung in New Delhi, EAM Jaishankar warmly welcomed the visiting delegation to the 19th session
Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technological Cooperation. "This 19th JCM, therefore, offers us a very valuable opportunity to review the implementation of the commitments which have been made, and to translate the political momentum at the highest level into concrete,
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Indian Navy Chief accorded the Embassy stated on X, sharing warm Maori welcome at New a glimpse of Pezeshkian’s departure. Prior to his departure, Pezeshkian Zealand naval base in Auckland
Iran President departs India after attending BRICS Summit New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, who travelled to India to attend the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, departed for Tehran, the Iranian Embassy in India said on Sunday. “President Masoud Pezeshkian, who travelled to India to attend the BRICS Summit, has just departed New Delhi for Tehran,”
said that he is looking forward to seeing Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Iran very soon. “Goodbye, my dear friend. I look forward to seeing you in Iran
Continued on Page 3
Auckland, Sep 14 (IANS) Indian Navy Chief Admiral Krishna Swaminathan was accorded a traditional Maori Powhiri welcome on Monday at Te Taua Moana Marae, the spiritual and cultural home of Royal New
Zealand Navy personnel, at the HMNZS Philomel naval base in Auckland. The warm welcome reflected mutual respect, friendship and the strong maritime ties between India and New Zealand. In a post on X, the Indian Navy wrote, "Tradition spoke before words did. Adm Krishna Swaminathan, CNS, was accorded a traditional Maori Powhiri at Te Taua Moana Marae, at HMNZS Philomel, Devonport Naval Base, Continued on Page 3
INDIA NEWS
Sept 16-30, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 3 National Engineers’ Day: PM Modi pays tribute to M. Visvesvaraya, hails engineers as ‘Karmayogis’
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Sept 16-30, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 3
COVER STORIES
BRICS has evolved into an ecosystem Russian President Putin concludes India visit after of solutions: PM Modi Continued from Page 1
participation and valuable contribution to the summit. He said that the ideas and suggestions of BRICS leaders have lent prevalence and depth to the grouping's cooperation. The Prime Minister said that the world leaders' participation at the summit reflects the growing relevance, openness, and inclusiveness of BRICS. "BRICS is poised to enter its third decade. The world now expects not just ideas and commitments but concrete results from us. I am confident that through our collective efforts, we will certainly live up to these expectations. I extend my best wishes once again to China as the next host of BRICS. I especially commend all
of you and your teams for making the New Delhi Summit a success," PM Modi stated. As BRICS chair in 2026, India is hosting the two-day 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, bringing together leaders of BRICS members, partner countries and outreach invitees. BRICS comprises Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates. BRICS partner countries are: Belarus, Cuba, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan and Vietnam. Earlier in the day, PM Modi and leaders of BRICS member and partner countries, outreach invitees and heads of
international organisations posed for a family photo at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. PM Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, World Health Organisation (WHO) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and several other leaders posed for the family picture at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Sunday. The leaders of BRICS member countries unanimously adopted the 'New Delhi Declaration' on the first day of BRICS Summit. The visiting leaders also attended a gala dinner hosted by PM Modi at Bharat Mandapam on Saturday evening.
18th BRICS Summit Continued from Page 1
Privileged Strategic Partnership with Russia and remains committed to further advancing our multifaceted cooperation," Singh posted on X. Putin participated in the twoday BRICS Summit at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, which brought together leaders from BRICS member and partner countries, along with outreach invitees. Addressing the 18th BRICS Summit session on Saturday, Putin said that the partnership within BRICS is invariably built on the principles of equality, good neighbourliness and mutual consideration of interests, while
respecting the cultural and civilisational diversity, history, traditions and values of its members. He said it was therefore quite logical that the authority and influence of BRICS in the world continue to grow steadily. "The Association has rightfully established itself among the key centres of global governance, and the prospects for developments in international politics and security, economics, and humanitarian cooperation largely depend on our collective decisions and actions," said Putin. The Russian President further said that the BRICS session on 'Inclusive Global Governance and Strengthening Multilateralism' is highly relevant in this regard.
Vietnam key partner in India’s Act East,MAHASAGAR, PM Modi held 15 bilateral meetings in three days as BRICS Indo-Pacific visions: EAM Jaishankar Continued from Page 1
tangible outcomes for our people. Vietnam, for us, is a key partner in India's Act East policy, in our vision Mahasagar, in our outlook of the Indo-Pacific. Vietnam is equally an important partner in the framework of our comprehensive strategic partnership with ASEAN," EAM stated. The External Affairs Minister also thanked Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hưng for his productive participation as a partner country in the two-day 18th BRICS Summit, hosted in New Delhi from September 12 to 13, under India's chairship.
EAM Jaishankar said he was "very glad to note" that India-Vietnam bilateral ties had progressed significantly since the previous meeting of the Joint Commission, held three years ago. He noted that the two countries had witnessed two important state-level visits, with Vietnam's President To Lam's May visit being the most recent. "We've had two important state visits from Vietnam in the meantime, most recently, the state visit of General Secretary and President To Lam to India. And during this visit, our leaders elevated the relationship to an enhanced comprehensive strategic partnership. It is noteworthy that Vietnam is the first country in the region with which we have bilateral ties at that level," EAM stated. On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his Vietnamese counterpart Lee Minh
Hung in New Delhi and discussed deepening defence and security cooperation. As the two leaders held a meeting on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, PM Modi said that Vietnam will remain a "key pillar" of India's Act East Policy and MAHASAGAR vision. "Met Prime Minister Lee Minh Hung of Vietnam on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit. We had productive discussions on: Deepening defence and security cooperation, including the proposed 2+2 mechanism. Expanding cooperation in energy, rare earths and space. Working towards USD 25 billion bilateral trade by 2030 and greater two-way investment. Strengthening our deep cultural and civilisational linkages. Vietnam will always remain a key pillar of India's Act East Policy and MAHASAGAR vision," PM Modi posted on X.
Iran President departs India after attending BRICS Summit Continued from Page 1
very soon,” the Iranian Embassy stated on X, sharing a picture of Pezeshkian and PM Modi. Pezeshkian met President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Saturday. President Murmu reiterated
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India's commitment to the pursuit of enduring peace through dialogue and diplomacy during a meeting with her Iranian counterpart, Masoud Pezeshkian, in New Delhi. “President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Dr Masoud Pezeshkian met President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The two leaders discussed the longstanding bonds of friendship between Iran and India, including our strong cultural and peopleto-people ties. The President reiterated India's commitment to the pursuit of enduring peace through dialogue and diplomacy,” the President’s Secretariat stated on X. PM Modi on Friday said India and Iran should move forward with a long-term and win-win strategy. PM Modi made the comment following his meeting with the
Iranian President on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. PM Modi also noted that President Pezeshkian’s visit is ‘more special’ as he is visiting India for the first time. “From Bishkek to Delhi, the productive discussions continue. Happy to have met Dr Masoud Pezeshkian, the President of Iran. This visit is more special because it is his first visit to India,” PM Modi stated on X. “We talked about the India-Iran friendship. We believe that we should move forward with a longterm and win-win strategy. The prevailing situation in the region was also discussed. India remains steadfast in its commitment to the pursuit of enduring peace,” he added.
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Summit wraps in New Delhi Continued from Page 1
the visiting Heads of State and government from Friday till late Sunday afternoon. This is in addition to a number of pull aside meetings with various world leaders and leaders of international institutions who attended the BRICS sessions and the Outreach/BRICS Plus Dialogue segment of the summit. Prime Minister Modi began the diplomatic sprint on Friday afternoon as he held discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Bharat Mandapam. It was followed by bilateral meetings with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Antonio Guterres, the Secretary General of the United Nations (UN), the same
evening. On Saturday, PM Modi began the day by hosting Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali for bilateral discussions at the Hyderabad House. It was followed by meetings with Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vietnam Prime Minister Le Minh Hung. Prime Minister Modi then welcomed the BRICS leaders from member countries as they arrived at Bharat Mandapam to attend the summit. A closed session on 'Inclusive Global Governance and Strengthening Multilateralism' followed next with PM Modi addressing the same.
Indian Navy Chief accorded warm Maori welcome at New Zealand naval base in Auckland Continued from Page 1
Auckland - a powerful expression of manaakitanga, respect and welcome, deeply woven into the identity of the NZ Navy. A uniquely New Zealand beginning to a visit anchored in enduring bonds, mutual respect and shared maritime traditions." During his official visit, the Indian Navy Chief also interacted with the Indian High Commissioner to New Zealand Muanpuii Saiawi and Consul General Madan Mohan Sethi. "CNS' visit comes at a time when India and New Zealand have seen elevation of the bilateral relationship and strengthening of maritime cooperation," the Indian High Commission in New Zealand posted on X.
Admiral Swaminathan arrived in Auckland following his successful engagements in Australia. This visit is aimed at strengthening naval ties between India and New Zealand. The visit to New Zealand builds upon renewed momentum in India–New Zealand relations, following the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Oceanic nation in July this year. During PM Modi's visit, India and New Zealand elevated their bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership and agreed to deepen cooperation across several areas, including defence and maritime security, read a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence ahead of Admiral Swaminathan's visit.
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Sept 16-30, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 3
BRICS SUMMIT 2026
India showed leadership in strongest consensus, not India’s EAM meets counterparts from loudest voice, says Rajnath Singh on BRICS Summit various nations during BRICS Summit
New Delhi, Sep 14 (IANS) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said that the success of the 18th BRICS Summit has indeed left an indelible mark on the international stage, adding that the New Delhi declaration signed was a testament to India's growing global influence. The 18th BRICS Summit 2026 took place on September 12–13
at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi with a theme, 'Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability'. The member states unanimously adopted the New Delhi Declaration. Taking to X, Rajnath Singh said, "The historic BRICS Summit has successfully concluded in New Delhi. Under the visionary leadership of PM Shri Narendra Modi, India underlined Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability as its foremost priorities as BRICS Chair." "Guided by these priorities, India has laid special emphasis on connecting BRICS cooperation directly with the common people. This inclusive and human-centric approach became the hallmark of
BRICS Summit in New Delhi," he said. Speaking about the signing of a landmark BRICS 2026 New Delhi Declaration, Singh called it a "big achievement" and said, "It is not just a document, it is a statement of India's growing global influence under the leadership of PM Modi." "India has put the Global South at the centre, not at the margins, championing a more inclusive, representative and balanced world order. Rooted in our civilisational ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, India has once again shown that leadership is not about having the loudest voice, but the strongest consensus. As India leads, the world listens," he said.
India’s grand strategy delivers major diplomatic win at 18th BRICS Summit: Report
New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) India’s grand strategy has delivered a significant diplomatic win at the 18th BRICS Summit, successfully aligning diverse interests while bringing pragmatism and sense to multilateralism and sending a clear message about the country’s strategic rise, a report has stated. New Delhi's approach at the BRICS summit reflected a clear effort to advance its grand strategic objectives, reinforce its
global message, and enhance its strategic relevance. It ensured that the summit does not turn into a geopolitical confrontation or a contest for influence between major powers, particularly Russia and China, a report in India Narrative detailed. “Three key shifts are essential to ensure its strategic autonomy works on both fronts: national and global interests. First, make multilateralism practical by pushing institutional and structural reforms in global governance rather than echoing bloc politics. Second, India’s BRICS vision, as enshrined in its re-anchored acronym, must be promoted by becoming a strategic enabler to strengthen cooperation and resilience. Third, project India as a global
major player, providing strategic and sustainable alternatives to navigate global crises, by concretising supply chain and economic security through diversification and greater inclusivity,” it mentioned. According to the report, hectic backroom negotiations appeared to underline a seamless blend of strategic de-hyphenation and strategic autonomy. India has pursued strategic de-hyphenation to keep the multilateral forum practical and focused beyond conflicts, tensions and geopolitical contestations, while using strategic autonomy to foster convergence of interests, bring economics to the centre of the narrative and further the BRICS agenda set by New Delhi, it mentioned.
‘Will make India less dependent on the West’: Foreign policy experts on BRICS Summit
New Delhi, Sep 11 (IANS) With several heads of state arriving in New Delhi for the 18th BRICS Summit in the national capital, foreign policy experts on Friday said that cooperation among the member countries will make India less dependent on Western nations. Speaking to IANS, journalist and foreign affairs expert Waiel Awaad said that major India-RussiaChina agreements on trade, defence, energy and technology may not have a direct impact on ties with the US and the Western countries, "but it's going to be very sensitive as this kind of
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cooperation between the three major powers will make India less dependent on the West and the US in particular, which the latter won't be comfortable with". "The Russians are giving technology to India but we haven't seen any transfer of technology to India from America, till now. While India, on its part, is also insisting on the 'Make in India' project, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. So, if America or the West is not willing to share their technical know-how, I think that such kind of a cooperation (between Russia, India and China) will help in building a stronger platform for the three countries." "I believe that the differences, especially between India and China, will reduce a lot if there is sincerity among the three leaders to move," he added. Awaad further said: "Meeting and
cooperation among the BRICS group will help in enhancing, finding a new market for Indian products, and also make it less dependent on the West. I believe India's diplomatic skills will be displayed in the outcome of the communique of this meeting." According to former diplomat Mahesh Sachdev, the BRICS Summit will be an opportunity for major countries of the world to discuss and find a solution regarding the ongoing conflicts between Russia and Ukraine and in West Asia, "which caused significant damage worldwide and since all efforts made to overcome this impact and deal with it have not been successful". "India's presence in the BRICS is a unique opportunity because the Western countries are suspicious of the grouping. They think that China and Russia are the ones who dominate BRICS."
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New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar met his counterparts from various nations during the 18th Summit in New Delhi on Sunday. EAM Jaishankar also shared a group photograph with the visiting ministers, including Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Iran Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, Kazakhstan Foreign Minister Mukhtar Tileuberdi, Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. While sharing the picture on X, EAM Jaishankar wrote, "Met many colleagues formally during BRICS India 2026. And as you can see,
some more informally." Earlier in the day, EAM Jaishankar held a meeting with his Saudi Arabia's counterpart, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, with discussions held on bilateral ties and regional as well as gloabl developments "Pleased to meet FM Saudi Arabia, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud on the sidelines of BRICS India 2026. Exchanged perspectives on regional and global developments, as well as on advancing our bilateral cooperation," EAM Jaishankar posted on X. As BRICS chair in 2026, India hosted the two-day 18th BRICS Summit at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, bringing together leaders of BRICS members, partner countries and outreach invitees. BRICS comprises Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates. BRICS partner countries are: Belarus, Cuba, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan and Vietnam.
BRICS portal to strengthen agricultural trade, technology
New Delhi, Sep 11 (IANS) A dedicated BRICS Agriculture Portal will be launched soon to strengthen agricultural trade, technology, innovation and collaboration among BRICS countries. This was decided during the session on "Promoting Agri Products and Agri-tech Startups in BRICS", chaired by Vikramjit Singh Sahney, BRICS Business Council (India) member. Sahney said that the BRICS Agri Portal will create a common platform connecting farmers, agri-tech startups, researchers, investors and businesses across BRICS countries. It will facilitate greater market access, exchange of technology and best practices, and open new opportunities for agricultural trade and investment. Sahney also emphasised that the BRICS Agri Portal will help facilitate affordable financing for agri-tech machinery and mechanisation for farmers, strengthen the agricultural value chain and promote better postharvest management and value addition. The portal will also support greater intra-BRICS agricultural trade through cooperation on plant protection and quarantine and harmonisation of standards
and protocols. Highlighting BRICS' collective responsibility towards global food security, Sahney said that BRICS accounts for around 42 per cent of global agricultural production and holds about one-third of the world's agricultural land. "We must leverage this strength through technology, climatesmart agriculture and stronger cooperation across agricultural value chains. AI, remote sensing, precision farming and digital marketplaces can help farmers increase productivity while using fewer resources and create a more resilient and sustainable food system across BRICS," he added. Agriculture across BRICS countries faces a range of common challenges, including climate change, water scarcity, declining natural resources, unpredictable weather patterns and the need to increase food production. Digital technologies are increasingly being viewed as a tool to help farmers respond to these challenges while improving productivity and resource efficiency. The BRICS Network on Digital Agriculture provides a framework for member countries to exchange experiences and best practices in areas such as precision farming, artificial intelligence, remote sensing, satellite-based monitoring, agricultural data systems, drones, Internet of Things applications and digital advisory services.
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INDIA NEWS
Sept 16-30, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 3
NEWS FROM INDIA
National Engineers’ Day: PM Modi pays tribute to PM Modi offers prayers at Piyush Goyal’s residence on Ganesh Chaturthi M. Visvesvaraya, hails engineers as ‘Karmayogis’ the birth of Lord Ganesha
New Delhi, Sep 15 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid tribute to legendary Indian engineer and statesman Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya on the occasion of National Engineers' Day and lauded the contributions of engineers in building, innovating and creating solutions for a better tomorrow. National Engineers' Day is observed across India every year on September 15 to commemorate
the birth anniversary of Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, one of the country's foremost civil engineers and a celebrated statesman whose contribution to engineering and nation-building continues to be remembered. Born on September 15, 1861, Visvesvaraya, also known by his initials M.V., is widely regarded as the 'Father of Modern Mysore'. He played a significant role in the development of major public infrastructure projects and became an enduring symbol of engineering excellence in India. Taking to X, PM Modi extended his greetings to engineers across the country and paid tribute to Visvesvaraya.
"Happy Engineers Day to all remarkable engineers, the people who build, innovate and provide solutions for a better tomorrow. Tributes to Sir M. Visvesvaraya, whose engineering genius and nation-building vision continue to inspire," the Prime Minister said. PM Modi also shared a video in which he highlighted the role of engineers in turning ideas and aspirations into tangible achievements and described them as 'Karmayogis' working towards the progress of the country. "Engineers do not merely build machines; they are the Karmayogis who transform dreams into reality. I applaud and commend every engineer of India.
A year after PM Modi inaugurated Bairabi-Sairang railway line, Mizoram celebrates the logistics identity
Guwahati/Aizawl, Sep 13 (IANS) The 51.38-km Bairabi-Sairang railway line, built through challenging hilly terrain and inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi a year ago, has given Mizoram a new logistics identity, officials said on Sunday. According to railway officials, the deeper significance of Sairang, near Mizoram capital Aizawl, lies in what it has made possible. A railway line built through challenging hilly terrain has compressed distances, widened choices and given Mizoram a new
logistics identity, while placing Aizawl on India’s railway map for the first time. It has linked mobility with dignity, infrastructure with enterprise, and connectivity with opportunity. On September 13, 2025, the Prime Minister inaugurated the 51.38 km Bairabi (along southern Assam) -- Sairang (near Aizawl) railway line and the Sairang Railway station, opening a new chapter of progress and development for Mizoram. Officials said that within just one year, the railway line has brought transformative development to this remote hill state, from a line on the railway map into a gateway to improved mobility, greater access to markets, enhanced tourism and new opportunities. For generations, Mizoram’s
difficult terrain made longdistance movement heavily dependent on roads, making travel very time-consuming, uncomfortable and unreliable. The commissioning of the Bairabi-Sairang new railway line has completely changed the scenario. The Bairabi-Sairang railway line is an engineering marvel, traversing steep hills, deep valleys and gorges of Mizoram. The project comprises 153 bridges, including 55 major bridges, 88 minor bridges and 10 Road Over Bridges/Road Under Bridges. As many as six bridges exceed 70 meters in height, with the tallest rising to 114 meters, which is 42 metres taller than Delhi’s Qutub Minar. The alignment also passes through 45 tunnels stretching over almost 16 kilometres.
Uttar Pradesh has moved from ‘one district, many mafia’ to ODOP: Rajnath Singh
New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday praised the Yogi Adityanath government for leading a decisive change in Uttar Pradesh’s administration and turning its ‘character’ from mafia-ruled to development-oriented state. He said that the state whose identity once revolved around mafia raj, riots and lawlessness is now being known around the world as one of peace and prosperity. Addressing a gathering of the Khatik community, the Defence Minister said, “Uttar Pradesh has left behind the identity of
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One District, Many Mafia and is now known for initiatives like One District, One Dish and One District, One Product (ODOP). Products such as Hathras's ‘hing’ (asafoetida), Firozabad's glass sculptures, Mathura's ‘peda’, and Aligarh's locks are gaining global recognition.” He further stated that Uttar Pradesh is advancing rapidly on the path of development with the 'double-engine' government while recalling the times when mafia raj prevailed in Uttar Pradesh, roads were in a dilapidated state, and an atmosphere of insecurity existed. Crediting CM Yogi Adityanath for the change, he said that Uttar Pradesh is gaining recognition the world over for development and its infrastructure of global standing. Lauding the bravery of the Khatik community in safeguarding the citizens from British rulers, he said, “In 1946, when Direct
Action Day was announced and Hindus in Bengal were being targeted, many members of the Khatik community—led by Gopal Patha—stepped up to the front lines and worked to protect Hindus. In 1857, during the First War of Independence fought in Meerut, members of the Khatik community confronted the British with great valour. The British subjected the Khatiks to severe oppression during their rule, yet the Khatiks sacrificed everything for India’s independence.” He also called upon the community to stay united for society’s safety at large while cautioning people against any attempts to divide or create rifts. The Defence Minister also sought to convey the message, “Scatter we shall fall, united we shall shine” and urged everyone to cultivate and foster the spirit of love and co-operation among them.
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New Delhi, Sep 14 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday visited the residence of Union Minister Piyush Goyal in Delhi to offer prayers to Lord Ganesha on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. The Prime Minister performed the traditional puja and sought the blessings of Lord “Shri Ganesh” for the well-being of all. Sharing photographs from the visit on social media platform X, the Prime Minister wrote, “Went for Ganpati Darshan at the residence of Union Minister Piyush Goyal Ji. May Bhagwan Shri Ganesh bless everyone!” The images showed him propitiating the idol of Lord Ganesha during the ritual. Ganesh Chaturthi, which marks
— revered as the remover of obstacles and the deity of new beginnings — is being celebrated across the country with traditional fervour. Devotees install idols in homes and public pandals, offer prayers, perform aarti, and prepare festive delicacies such as modaks. Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister extended heartfelt greetings to the nation. In a separate post, he said, “Heartfelt Ganesh Chaturthi wishes to all my fellow citizens. May this sacred festival of darshan and worship of the remover of obstacles infuse new energy and fresh enthusiasm into everyone’s lives. May all endeavours succeed through His divine blessings, and may the nation continue to advance on the path of constant progress—this is my prayer.” He also shared a devotional verse praising Lord Ganesha, ending with the traditional chant “Ganpati Bappa Morya!” Vice President CP Radhakrishnan also paid obeisance before the idol of Lord Ganesha at Goyal’s residence on the same day.
Storm destroys over 10,000 banana plants in TN’s Erode; farmers suffer losses
Erode, Sep 14 (IANS) More than 10,000 banana plants were uprooted after heavy rain accompanied by strong winds lashed Ammapettai and surrounding areas in Tamil Nadu's Erode district from Sunday evening until midnight, causing huge losses to farmers. The sudden spell of rain and gusty winds caused extensive damage to banana plantations in Boothapadi village near Ammapettai and areas, including Anna Nagar, Poonachi, Kemmiyampatti, Patlur and Muliyanur. Farmers said the intensity of the wind left them with little opportunity to protect their standing crops. Plantations belonging to several farmers, including Senthil Kumar, 43, Veluchamy, 73, Kaveri, 76, Parimala, 56, Moorthy, 62, and Poonachi Eesan, were among those severely affected. Thousands of banana plants were found uprooted or broken across the fields after the storm subsided. Most of the damaged plants were of the Nendran variety and had been cultivated for nearly seven months. They were approaching the stage of producing bunches, raising expectations of a good harvest among the growers. The destruction of the crop at this crucial stage has left the affected farmers deeply
distressed. Farmers said they had invested substantial amounts in preparing the land, purchasing saplings, applying fertilisers and pesticides, maintaining irrigation facilities and paying wages to agricultural workers. With the crop nearing maturity, they had expected to recover their expenses and earn reasonable returns from the harvest. However, the heavy rain and powerful winds completely flattened plantations spread across the affected villages. Preliminary estimates indicate that more than 10,000 banana plants were destroyed, resulting in a combined loss of around Rs 50 lakh. Farmers fear that the final damage assessment could reveal an even higher figure. The growers said they had already been struggling with rising cultivation costs, fluctuating market prices and shortages of farm labour. The latest crop loss has added to their financial burden, particularly for those who had borrowed money to meet cultivation expenses. The affected farmers urged officials from the Revenue and Agriculture departments to immediately inspect the damaged plantations and conduct a comprehensive assessment of the losses. They also appealed to the Tamil Nadu government to provide adequate compensation and other relief measures without delay, saying timely financial assistance was essential for them to overcome the setback and resume cultivation.
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Rohit Pawar alleges Rs 40-crore FDA exam leak US envoy hails PM Modi’s focus on Northeast development, invites racket, demands resignation of MPSC chief
Pune, Sep 10 (IANS) Launching a scathing attack on the state government, NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar on Thursday accused the administration of shielding Vivek Bhimanwar, who was recently appointed as the Chairman of the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) despite facing serious corruption allegations. Addressing a press conference, Pawar alleged a massive Rs 40 crore transaction in the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) paper leak case and released a presentation detailing various irregularities linked to Bhimanwar during his tenure as Transport Commissioner. These included scandals involving High-Security Registration
Plates (HSRP), transfers and promotions, Integrated Traffic Management Systems (ITMS), interceptor vehicles, and GPRS tracking kits. Pawar directly targeted Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis over the appointment, alleging inaction despite the availability of crucial evidence. "The Chief Minister has all the documents regarding Bhimanwar, and I am ready to provide them again if needed. However, if no action is taken, it clearly indicates that the Chief Minister is protecting him," Pawar stated, demanding Bhimanwar's immediate resignation on moral grounds. Referring to the FDA recruitment scandal, Pawar refuted the state secretary’s July 27 statement that denied any leak. "The paper was not confined to a single individual; it reached hundreds of candidates, pointing to a Rs 40 crore racket," he claimed, adding
that even Minister Pratap Sarnaik had previously acknowledged the existence of an active racket within the Regional Transport Office (RTO) on the floor of the legislature. Pawar also raised eyebrows over Bhimanwar’s insistence on conducting MPSC examinations online, noting the irony that he had previously opposed online transfer systems for officers and employees. "If someone pays Rs 40 lakh to become a Talathi, what happens to deserving, underprivileged students?" Pawar questioned, advocating for the appointment of an upright officer like Tukaram Mundhe to head the commission and restore integrity to the system. He further pointed out that Bhimanwar joined government service in 1993, served as a Special Executive Officer to the Chief Minister in 2014, and was promoted to the IAS in 2018—noting that CM Fadnavis had three Special
Sanjay Jha calls Farakka treaty a major Bihar issue, opposes extension without water share
Patna, Sep 11 (IANS) Janata DalUnited ( JD-U) National Working President Sanjay Jha has termed the Farakka Treaty a serious issue concerning Bihar's interests and said it should not be extended unless the state's rightful share of water is determined. Jha said on Thursday that the treaty had resulted in water that should be available to Bihar flowing downstream, and added that the issue was also linked to
the recurring flood situation in the state. He said that the treaty is scheduled to expire on December 12 and said any decision on its extension must take Bihar's interests into account. Referring to former Prime Minister I.K. Gujral, Jha claimed that Gujral had been persuaded to sign the agreement on the assurance that he would receive a Nobel Prize. He alleged that Bihar's water was subsequently flowing into Bangladesh and said the situation needed to be changed. "If the treaty is to be extended, Bihar's share of water must first be determined; otherwise, it
should not be renewed," Jha said. He also criticised the Opposition for remaining silent on the issue, claiming that the Bihar government had public support on the matter. On the ongoing debate over renaming Bakhtiyarpur as 'Nitishpur', Jha said he respected the sentiments associated with former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who was born in Bakhtiyarpur. However, the JD-U National Working President noted that Nitish Kumar himself had never personally favoured renaming places and had generally preferred to let his work speak for him.
Delhi’s young athletes to receive Rs 2,000 monthly incentive at grassroots level: CM Rekha Gupta
New Delhi, Sep 10 (IANS) The Delhi government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, has taken a decision to nurture sporting talent at the grassroots level and help young athletes progress to higher levels of competition by providing them Rs 2,000 monthly incentive. At a Cabinet meeting chaired by the Chief Minister on Thursday, the Delhi government approved the introduction of the 'Grassroot Training Support Assistance' component under the 'Mukhyamantri Khel Protsahan
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Yojana' (MKPY), an official statement said. Under the new initiative, eligible young athletes who regularly train at Delhi government sports centres and stadiums will receive financial assistance of Rs 2,000 per month. The aim is to remove financial barriers that can disrupt training and ensure that young athletes have access to continuous training from the early stages. Chief Minister Gupta said the new assistance scheme expands the reach of the 'Mukhyamantri Khel Protsahan Yojana' to the grassroots level. "In their initial years, athletes often have to meet regular expenses on nutrition, local travel, basic sporting equipment and medical needs."
"The monthly assistance of Rs 2,000 will help them continue their training without interruption. This will reduce the likelihood of talented athletes dropping out of training and help Delhi government sports centres and stadiums develop as strong hubs for grassroots talent development." Under the new arrangement, assistance will be provided to up to 25 per cent of the regularly enrolled trainees at each government sports centre or stadium. Normally, a maximum of 100 athletes at any one stadium or centre will be covered. At larger stadiums with a higher number of trainees, this limit may be increased to 150 athletes, subject to budget availability.
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attention to Manipur tourism
Imphal, Sep 11 (IANS) US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor on Friday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s focus on the development of Northeast India was a positive step for a diverse country like India, during his separate meetings with Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh here. Gor, who is on a visit to Manipur, called on the Governor at Lok Bhavan and later met the Chief Minister at the CM Secretariat in Mantripukhri, officials said. During his meeting with CM Khemchand Singh, the US Ambassador described Manipur as a “stunning place” with remarkable natural beauty and enquired about the number of tourists visiting the state, a senior official of the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) said. Gor said he was happy that Prime Minister Modi was focusing on the development of Northeast India, which, he noted, was particularly important for a diverse country like India. The Ambassador also said there
was a special bond between Prime Minister Modi and US President Donald Trump, beyond the normal relationship between a Prime Minister and a President, adding that Trump personally cherished the relationship. Khemchand Singh invited the US Ambassador to the upcoming Manipur Sangai Festival 2026 and highlighted tourism and other allied sectors as potential areas for development in the state. The Chief Minister said India was a “mini world” and Manipur a “mini India”, noting that the state was home to 36 communities. The ten-day Manipur Sangai Festival will be held from November 21 to 30 with the theme “Destination Manipur”. The festival will showcase and promote the state's art and culture, handloom, handicrafts and fine arts, indigenous sports, cuisine and music, besides ecotourism and adventure sports. Participation of various states, foreign traders and cultural troupes is expected at the festival. Fashion shows and music programmes will also form part of the event. The US Ambassador was accompanied by US Consul General in Kolkata Kathy GilesDiaz, while the Chief Minister was accompanied by state officials led by Chief Secretary Rajeev Singh Thakur.
Gujarat Assembly passes Rent Bill, replacing 1947 law; sets three-tier dispute resolution system
Gandhinagar, Sep 11 (IANS) The Gujarat Assembly has unanimously passed the Gujarat Rent Bill, 2026, paving the way for a new legal framework governing rental agreements across the state and replacing the decadesold system under the Bombay Rents, Hotel and Lodging House Rates Control Act, 1947. The Bill, introduced by Urban Development Minister Kanu Desai, makes written rent agreements mandatory for both residential and commercial properties and proposes a threetier mechanism comprising a Rent Authority, Rent Court and Rent Tribunal for time-bound resolution of disputes between landlords and tenants. Desai said the existing law had to be extended from time to time and its limitations had resulted in legal complications for both landlords and tenants.
"The new legislation has been framed to meet the present-day requirements of Gujarat," he said. Under the new framework, details of every written rental agreement will have to be jointly submitted to the Rent Authority. The authority will also develop a digital platform in Gujarati within three months, with each registered agreement being assigned a unique identification number and uploaded on the website. The ID will serve as an important record for both parties. The Bill also caps the advance security deposit at three months' rent. Once a tenant vacates the property and all accounts are settled, the deposit will have to be returned within one month. The proposed three-tier system is aimed at providing a structured mechanism for dealing with rental disputes. The Bill also prohibits landlords from cutting off essential services such as electricity, water and gas to tenants. In such cases, the Rent Authority will have the power to order immediate restoration of the services.
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Sergio Gor meets Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, Karnataka cuts Cauvery water release says his journey shows US-India space cooperation to Tamil Nadu by 57 pc amid rainfall dip
New Delhi, Sep 7 (IANS) US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, on Sunday met Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut to travel to the International Space Station and said his journey showcases US-India space cooperation. "Enjoyed meeting Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut to travel to the International Space Station. From training at NASA to piloting Axiom Space's Ax-4 mission, his journey
showcases US-India space cooperation at its best," Gor said on social media platform X. Gor also met Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Sunday and noted that US-India ties are gaining momentum in Karnataka across space technology, AI, and trade. "Great to reconnect with Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar in Bengaluru. US-India ties are gaining momentum in Karnataka across space technology, AI, and trade. Through initiatives like Pax Silica and TRUST, we're creating opportunities for American and Indian industry alike," the US envoy said on X. Last week, Gor described the collaboration between Lockheed
Martin, Raytheon and Tata Advanced Systems Limited for the co-production of the Javelin All Up Round (AUR) as "a major step forward" for the US-India defence partnership. He said that the initiative would open new opportunities for US companies while strengthening India's manufacturing capabilities. Taking to his official X account, Gor added, "A major step forward for the US-India defense partnership. This collaboration between Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and Tata Advanced Systems Limited will create new opportunities for US companies, strengthen America's defenceindustrial base, and boost India's manufacturing capabilities."
Adani Electricity organises safety awareness campaign in collaboration with Dahi Handi mandals
Mumbai, Sep 4 (IANS) Adani Electricity Mumbai Limited on Friday extended warm greetings to Mumbaikars on the auspicious occasion of Shri Krishna Janmashtami and Dahi Handi festivals. The company conducted an electrical safety awareness campaign in its licensed area on Friday. The teams met the Dahi Handi organisers and their electrical contractors to provide
information on the safe electrical practices followed in the pandals and shared the essential "Do's" and "Don'ts". "Dahi Handi is an integral part of Mumbai's festive spirit and our aim is to ensure that everyone enjoys the festival safely and responsibly. Our teams have completed advance preparations by inspecting key locations, deploying staff, and coordinating with the organizers and administration,” said an Adani Electricity spokesperson. “We urge everyone to celebrate with enthusiasm, but give top priority to safety. In case of any emergency related to power supply, pandal organisers or customers can contact our 24x7 toll-free helpline 19122. Adani Electricity wishes all Mumbaikars
a happy, safe and auspicious Janmashtami and Dahi Handi,” the spokesperson added. Among the ‘Do’s’ are to keep the handi, platform and human pyramid area at a safe distance from the overhead power lines; get a metered temporary electrical connection for stage lighting, sound system and decoration; get all installation and wiring work done by a licensed electrical contractor; use ISIMark cables, MCB, and RCCB safety devices with appropriate capacity; ensure earthing of all metal structures, trusses, scaffoldings and poles; and keep meter boxes and distribution panels closed, secure, above ground and out of reach of people.
BRICS judicial leaders meet CJI Surya Kant, discuss mediation, arbitration, and AI in judiciary
New Delhi, Sep 4 (IANS) Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice Surya Kant on Friday held bilateral meetings with judicial leaders from BRICS member states and partner countries on the opening day of the BRICS Chief Justices’ Forum here, with discussions focusing on strengthening judicial cooperation, mediation and arbitration, commercial courts and the use of artificial intelligence in justice delivery. The Supreme Court of India is hosting the three-day BRICS Chief Justices’ Forum from September 4 to 6, bringing together Chief Justices, Presidents of Supreme Courts,
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and senior judicial leaders from BRICS member states and partner countries. During the bilateral meetings, CJI Surya Kant discussed the possibility of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) for judicial cooperation, mutual recognition of judicial awards and decrees, and exchange of best legal practices among participating countries. The discussions also focused on the importance of mediation and arbitration in resolving business and corporate disputes and creating a conducive environment for commercial activities between nations. The CJI highlighted the need for efficient commercial courts to enhance the confidence of foreign investors and discussed the possibilities of creating a common platform for arbitration and mediation to deal with commercial disputes. He also emphasised the role of the judiciary in building
coordinated bilateral cooperation and strengthening relations between countries. The meetings further discussed the use of institutions such as the National Judicial Academy, Bhopal, for professional exchange programmes and the possibility of holding bilateral conferences on contemporary legal issues. CJI Surya Kant stressed the importance of expeditious judicial processes in strengthening people-to-people ties and enhancing engagement among participating judiciaries. The judicial leaders who met the CJI included the Russian Supreme Court's Chief Justice Igor Krasnov, China's Chief Justice and the Supreme People's Court's President Zhang Jun, Egypt's Supreme Constitutional Court's Chief Justice Boulos Gahmy Iskander Boulos, Indonesia's Supreme Court's Chief Justice, Prof Dr Sunarto, and Iran's Chief Justice Ayatollah Gholam Hossein Mohseni-Eje’i.
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Chennai, Sep 8 (IANS) The quantity of Cauvery water being released to Tamil Nadu from Karnataka's Krishnaraja Sagar and Kabini reservoirs has been reduced sharply to 5,200 cubic feet per second following a decline in rainfall and inflows across the upper catchment areas. The combined discharge had stood at 11,983 cusecs the previous day. It has now fallen by 6,783 cusecs, representing a reduction of nearly 57 per cent within a day. The decline is significant for Tamil Nadu, which closely monitors releases from Karnataka's Cauvery basin reservoirs. The water flowing downstream contributes to the storage at the Mettur Dam and supports irrigation in the Cauvery delta, where farmers rely on timely supplies for standing crops and seasonal cultivation. Of the total quantity released towards Tamil Nadu, 4,800 cusecs were being discharged from the Krishnaraja Sagar reservoir, commonly known as KRS. The remaining 1,200 cusecs were being released from the Kabini reservoir. KRS is situated at Srirangapatna in Karnataka's Mandya district. Its catchment area includes Kodagu
district and parts of Wayanad in Kerala. Rain has completely stopped in Kodagu, leading to a steady reduction in the volume of water entering the reservoir. By Monday morning, the water level at KRS stood at 106.84 feet against its full reservoir level of 124.80 feet. The inflow was recorded at 2,511 cusecs, while outflow remained higher at 4,800 cusecs. As discharge exceeded the inflow, the reservoir's stored water continued to decline. A similar situation was reported at the Kabini reservoir in Mysuru district. Its water level was recorded at 2,268.50 feet above sea level, compared with the full reservoir level of 2,284 feet. The inflow into Kabini stood at 2,514 cusecs, while 1,200 cusecs were being discharged downstream. The releases from Kabini and KRS together accounted for the 5,200 cusecs flowing towards Tamil Nadu. Reservoir discharges are normally regulated after considering rainfall, inflows, available storage and downstream requirements. With rainfall weakening across the upper Cauvery catchments, the authorities are expected to closely monitor reservoir levels before making further changes. The reduction has renewed attention on water availability for Tamil Nadu's Cauvery delta. Any fresh spell of rain in Kodagu and Wayanad could improve inflows into KRS, Kabini and other reservoirs in the basin.
Gujarat Assembly passes bill to tighten school regulations, introduce special educator provision
Gandhinagar, Sep 10 (IANS) The Gujarat Legislative Assembly on Thursday passed amendments to the Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Act, 1972, increasing penalties for unauthorised school operations, illegal appointments and arbitrary closure of registered schools, while introducing provisions for special educators and clearer legal classifications for aided and private institutions. Under the amended provisions, school managements that illegally appoint principals or teachers in aided secondary and higher secondary schools could face a fine of up to Rs 10 lakh, compared with the earlier penalty of Rs 1,000. "The provision is aimed at ensuring greater transparency in recruitment," the government said. The amendment also tightened the law governing unregistered schools. A school cannot provide education without registration with the Gujarat Secondary and
Higher Secondary Education Board. The earlier penalty of Rs one lakh to Rs two lakh has been replaced with imprisonment of at least one year and up to two years, or a fine of Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh, or both. The penalty for arbitrarily shutting a registered secondary or higher secondary school without informing the Board has also been raised sharply. While the earlier provision carried a fine of Rs 1,000 for closing a school without the required six months’ notice during an academic session, the amended provision provides for a fine of Rs 20 lakh. The government said the measure is intended to prevent decisions by school managements from adversely affecting students’ education. The six-month notice requirement remains part of the framework. The amendments also provide a legal framework for the appointment of special educators. The provision is intended to strengthen inclusive education for Children with Special Needs (CWSN), with students with disabilities to receive appropriate educational opportunities and guidance from specialised teachers.
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Kremlin welcomes Trump’s call for Iranian security official says no talks with US until conditions met Ukraine to halt strikes on refineries
Moscow, Sep 14 (IANS) The Kremlin on Monday welcomed US President Donald Trump's call on Ukraine to halt strikes on Russia's fuel-producing facilities. "Any call on Kyiv to stop attacks on civilian economic infrastructure can only be welcomed," said Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov,
Xinhua News Agency reported. "Any countries can use their influence on Kyiv to encourage it to show greater flexibility, which would be a significant contribution to the settlement process," Peskov said. On Monday, Trump said in a post on Truth Social that Ukraine had agreed not to strike Russian energy targets and "Russia has agreed to do likewise!" The announcement offered no details about the facilities covered or whether either country had attached conditions. It did not say whether the commitments had
taken effect. Trump also blamed the RussiaUkraine war for most of the rise in global diesel prices, rather than Iran. "The World's Diesel price rise is mostly caused by the Russia/ Ukraine War, not Iran," the US President said. In his Truth Social post, Trump gave no figures or timeframe for the price increase and offered no supporting data for his assessment. He did not elaborate on the reference to Iran.
India and Nigeria discuss cooperation in trade, clean energy and defence
New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday met with Vice President Kashim Shettima of Nigeria on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. “Delighted to meet Vice President Kashim Shettima of Nigeria on the sidelines of the Delhi BRICS Summit. We discussed cooperation in areas such as trade, power, clean energy, fertilisers and defence. We also
reviewed cooperation in health, capacity building, technology and more,” PM Modi stated on X. According to a statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), both leaders reviewed the multifaceted India-Nigeria relationship and expressed satisfaction at the steady progress across diverse sectors. “The discussion focussed on key areas including trade and investment, defence and security, energy partnership, agriculture, health, and digital technologies. They reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the India-Nigeria Strategic Partnership,” stated the MEA. PM Modi and Vice President Shettima Mustapha also
exchanged views on regional and global matters of mutual interest, including priorities and concerns of the Global South. “They emphasised the importance of strengthening cooperation in multilateral fora and working together towards a more representative, inclusive and multi-polar international order,” noted the MEA. PM Modi highlighted India's continued commitment to strengthening its partnership with Nigeria and to deepening India's engagement with Africa. Vice President Shettima Mustafa appreciated India's development experience and its contribution to capacity building and economic development in Nigeria.
Yemeni gov’t forces say over 500 soldiers killed during Houthi west coast offensive
Aden (Yemen), Sep 13 (IANS) Yemen's government forces said Sunday that more than 500 soldiers were killed and about 1,500 wounded in month-long battles with the Houthis along the western coast, as the group mounted a sweeping advance toward the strategic Bab alMandab Strait. In a statement carried by Al-Joumhouriya TV, the government's National Resistance Forces said the casualties were recorded between August 9 and September 10, while claiming that more than 1,000 Houthi members were killed and thousands wounded. The figures could not be independently verified. The statement said the fighting
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began with Houthi missile, drone and explosive-boat attacks before expanding from Hays in the southern part of the Red Sea province of Hodeidah to several fronts in neighbouring southwestern Taiz province, Xinhua News Agency reported. The casualties came amid a sweeping Houthi offensive launched on September 3 that rapidly redrew front lines along Yemen's Red Sea coast, with the group capturing several government-held areas in Hodeidah province and neighbouring Taiz province. The Houthis captured the strategic port city of Mocha on Thursday before pushing south on Friday into the Bab al-Mandab area and seizing Mayun Island at the heart of the strait, tightening their grip on the vital shipping chokepoint connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden. Houthi forces subsequently advanced farther south toward neighbouring Lahj province,
where retreating government forces had regrouped, bringing the fighting closer to Aden, the seat of Yemen's internationally recognised government. Houthi group freed 210 of its members held by government forces after seizing a prison during its rapid advance along the country's Red Sea coast, a Houthi military official told Xinhua on Sunday. The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Houthi forces stormed a government-run prison after capturing the strategic Red Sea port city of Mocha in southwestern Taiz province on Thursday. "Before retreating, the mercenary forces gathered all 210 prisoners in a large hall and locked them inside," the Houthi official said, referring to government forces. "Our fighters broke into the facility and freed them."
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Tehran, Sep 15 (IANS) A top Iranian security official said early on Tuesday that Iran will not negotiate with the United States unless its conditions are met. Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Mohsen Rezaei made the remarks in a post on social media platform X in response to US President Donald Trump's remarks on Monday, in which Trump claimed that Tehran wanted to make a deal "quickly and badly" and that Washington could resume negotiations with it. "The failing Nation of Iran wants to make a deal, quickly and badly. I will determine whether or not the USA will choose to engage -The concept of which we are open to," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "Don't get distracted by the US president's mixed signals -- from 'no negotiations' to 'we're ready to talk.' The stakes around oil and
the straits have changed. Damage control won't stop what's coming," Rezaei said. "No talks until Iran's conditions are met. Period!" he stressed. On June 18, the United States and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on ending the war in the region on all fronts, including Lebanon, reports Xinhua news agency. 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 a series of recent escalations between the two countries. Meanwhile, two fishing boats were targeted in a drone attack off Iran's southern coast on Monday night, leaving a number of fishermen missing, the semi-official Mehr news agency reported. The attack was carried out off the coast of the southern port city of Kargan and near Larak Island, Mehr cited Ahmad Nafisi, Hormozgan province's deputy governor for political and security affairs, as saying.
Over 31,000 evacuated as heavy rain lashes China’s Hainan province
Beijing, Sep 13 (IANS) More than 31,000 people have been evacuated from at-risk areas in China's Hainan Province as persistent heavy rain battered parts of the island. As of 7:50 p.m. on Sunday, 31,564 people had been relocated, though no major disasters were reported, according to the provincial committee for disaster prevention, mitigation and relief, Xinhua news agency reported. From 8 a.m. Friday to 4 p.m. Sunday, rainfall exceeded 300 millimetres in 24 townships across six cities and counties, including Wanning, Lingshui and Qionghai. Changfeng Township in Wanning recorded the highest rainfall of 452.1 millimetres. More rain is forecast from Sunday evening through Monday. Hainan raised its flood-control emergency response to Level II at 11 a.m. on Sunday. By 7 p.m. on Sunday, Wanning had activated a Level I emergency response -- the highest level in China's four-tier emergency response system -- while Qionghai, Qiongzhong, Wuzhishan, Baoting and Lingshui were under Level II responses.
The six cities and counties have also ordered school closures, and eight cities and counties have closed some tourist attractions. Authorities have also imposed traffic controls on affected roads. Fire and rescue teams have been pre-positioned in key areas, with additional personnel and drainage equipment deployed to Wanning, Qionghai and Lingshui. Power and telecommunications authorities have also prepared emergency repair equipment and supplies. On Saturday, the Ministry of Water Resources and the China Meteorological Administration jointly issued a blue alert for flash floods in parts of southeastern Hainan, while authorities issued a yellow alert for geological disaster risks in some areas. Local authorities said they are closely monitoring rainfall and water conditions, managing reservoir operations and working to prevent flooding, urban waterlogging, geological disasters, and road and bridge submersion. On August 22, the Ministry of Water Resources activated a Level-IV emergency response to flooding in Guangdong, Guangxi and Hainan, as Typhoon Narra was forecast to bring torrential rains to southern China. Narra was the 19th typhoon of this year.
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Prince Aga Khan meets HM Shah, discusses strengthening cooperation across various sectors
‘Won’t be tolerated, UN should take note’: Reactions pour in after Arunachal, Aksai Chin shown as separate regions in new map
Earlier in the day, he called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. During their discussions, President Murmu appreciated the work undertaken by the Aga Khan Development Network. “His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The President appreciated the work undertaken by the Aga Khan Development Network and said it demonstrates how non-profit organisations, working in partnership with the government, can improve people's quality of life,” the President’s Secretariat stated on X.
take a note of this." Foreign Affairs Expert K.P. Fabian also said that it's appropriate for India to protest against the issued map. BJP spokesperson Pratul Shah Deo termed incident, "extremely objectionable". "This is not a mistake. There are some kind of insane people who sometimes show Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh as separate regions and also depict Pakistan Occupied Kashmir, which is a part of India, as a part of that (Pakistan's) country...all these three are integral parts of India. Portraying them separately won't be tolerated," he asserted, while adding that the Ministry of External Affairs have flagged the "anomalies" in the new world map. Congress MP Pramod Tiwari told IANS: "China has its eyes on Arunachal Pradesh and a large part of Ladakh, including Aksai Chin. The map released by the UN is erroneous, and it undermines our sovereignty. We do not accept it." Moreover, he appealed to the Indian government to strongly oppose the move, "otherwise it would come across as if the government is scared of China." Echoing similar view, Samajwadi Party Maharashtra President Abu Azmi also opposed the depiction of Arunachal Pradesh as a separate region from India.
New Delhi, Sep 10 (IANS) Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, the 50th hereditary Imam (spiritual leader) of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and Chair of the Aga Khan Development Network, on Thursday met Home Minister Amit Shah and discussed
strengthening cooperation in various sectors. “Pleased to meet His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V in New Delhi. India cherishes its bond with the Aga Khan Development Network, tied by a shared commitment to human development,” HM Shah stated on X. “Our discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in social development, irrigation, cooperatives, natural farming— including millets—and solar energy. Reaffirmed our shared commitment to advancing these partnerships for sustainable development and the greater good of humanity,” he added.
Sarang helicopter display reflects enduring bonds of friendship between India and Egypt: IAF
Cairo, Sep 10 (IANS) The aerial display of the Sarang helicopter display team with the Pyramids of Giza in the backdrop brings together India’s flying prowess and Egypt’s timeless heritage, reflecting the enduring bonds of friendship between the two nations, the Indian Air Force (IAF) said on Thursday. “From the skies above Giza. The majestic Pyramids of Giza provided a spectacular backdrop as the Sarang Helicopter Display Team flew a four-helicopter formation of ALH Dhruv, showcasing precision, discipline and Indian aviation excellence.
The aerial display beautifully brings together India’s flying prowess and Egypt’s timeless heritage, reflecting the enduring bonds of friendship between the two nations,” the IAF stated on X. Air Marshal Yalla Umesh, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Maintenance Command, visited the Sarang Display Team in Egypt and interacted with the contingent. “Strengthening camaraderie, building bonds. Air Marshal Yalla Umesh, AOC-in-C, Maintenance Command, visited the Sarang Display Team at the 2nd Edition of the El Alamein International Airshow, Egypt. An interaction with the contingent and the exchange of mementoes marked the occasion, as Air Warriors
shared their experiences of representing India on the global stage,” the IAF noted on X. The team reached Egypt to participate in the second edition of the EI Alamein International Airshow at EI Alamein International Airport in Egypt from September 8 to 10. "The IAF Sarang team is the world's only five-helicopter display team. The team will showcase precision, professionalism and flying skills through a series of meticulously choreographed displays. This marks another significant milestone in international engagements by the Indian Air Force, reflecting growing defence and diplomatic ties between India and Egypt," the Ministry of Defence said on Sunday.
Europe should not give without getting anything in return in Ukraine peace deal: Kaja Kallas
Vilnius (Lithuania), Sep 8 (IANS) Europe should not give without getting anything in return in any future peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has said, stressing that any peace settlement would also involve commitments from Europe. Kallas made the remarks during a visit to Lithuania on Monday (Local time) after US negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner visited Moscow and Kyiv over the weekend in renewed diplomacy to end the war.
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At a joint press conference with Lithuanian Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevicius, Kallas was asked whether the weekend talks had brought peace closer and what a possible trilateral summit without an EU seat would mean for Europe's ability to shape the outcome. She said Russia and Ukraine ultimately needed to talk directly to each other. "On the European side, it is clear that we cannot be mediators between Russia and Ukraine. They need to talk to each other. We have always been on the side of Ukraine, so we are not neutral in this situation," Kallas said. She said that any eventual peace agreement would also involve "a lot of asks for Europe," adding that these were not things Europe should give "without getting anything in return." Earlier on Monday, Kallas met Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda and discussed Lithuania's priorities for its upcoming presidency of the
Council of the European Union, reports Xinhua news agency. Nauseda said Lithuania would focus on European security and defence, EU enlargement, competitiveness, internal security and social resilience during its presidency. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner at the Kremlin on Saturday, with the meeting lasting more than three hours. Witkoff and Kushner then met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv on Sunday. Additionally, Delegations from Ukraine, the United States and Russia previously held two rounds of talks in Abu Dhabi on January 23-24 and February 4-5, followed by another round in Geneva on February 17-18, in an effort to find a path toward ending the RussiaUkraine conflict. The trilateral negotiations subsequently stalled and have remained suspended.
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New Delhi, Sep 10 (IANS) A veteran police officer, foreign expert and leaders across the political spectrum on Thursday criticised the new map issued by the United Nations after it depicted Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin as separate regions positioned between the respective "claim lines" of India and China, warning that such things "won't be tolerated". While appealing the Centre to lodge a protest at the UN against the incident, they also asked the global organisation "to take note" that China has "illegally occupied" Aksai Chin. Speaking to IANS, former Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) S.P. Vaid said: "India should raise the issue again at the UN and file a protest. These are our territories. The entirety of Jammu and Kashmir belongs to India. Aksai Chin is also part of India and has been illegally occupied by China, UN should
North Korea, Russia open 1st cross-border road bridge amid deepening ties
Seoul, Sep 8 (IANS) North Korea and Russia have opened a new road bridge over the Tumen River, Pyongyang's state media reported on Tuesday, calling it key infrastructure to help "revitalise" multifaceted cooperation. The opening ceremony took place the previous day in Rason in North Korea and Khasan in Russia, virtually attended by North Korean Premier Pak Thaesong and Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, reports Yonhap, quoting the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). The construction began in April last year, following a summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin in June 2024 in Pyongyang. The bridge would "ensure the safe passage of various kinds of vehicles and personnel traffic," the KCNA said, offering "a guarantee for building up and reinforcing an important infrastructure for economic cooperation between the two countries and revitalising
multifaceted cooperation including human exchange, tourism and commodity circulation." Calling the bridge a "new symbol" of friendship between the two countries, Pak said it adds "a new dynamic movement to the overall bilateral cooperation." The relations between the two countries "have been put on an unprecedentedly high level of comprehensive strategic partnership," Mishustin said, according to the report. "Russia would as ever do its utmost for the multifaceted development of the bilateral relations," he added. The bridge was named after Yakov Novichenko, a Soviet Red Army officer credited with saving the life of North Korean founder Kim Il-sung in 1946, according to the KCNA. It reflects the two countries' "steadfast will of the leaderships and peoples of both countries to invariably develop the goodneighbourly relations between the two peoples into genuine comradely relations of trust," the report said. Until now, the only crossing between North Korea and Russia was a rail bridge over the Tumen River.
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INDIA NEWS
Sept 16-30, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 3
India, Saudi Arabia review ‘excellent’ state of bilateral relations bin Sulaiman Alrajhi for the invitation and warm hospitality," MoS Singh said on X.
Riyadh, Sep 6 (IANS) Minister of State (MoS) Kirti Vardhan Singh on Sunday met with Adel al-Jubeir, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Climate Envoy of Saudi Arabia in Riyadh and reviewed the 'excellent' state of bilateral relations. "Had a warm and productive meeting with Adel al-Jubeir, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Climate Envoy of Saudi Arabia. Reviewed the excellent state of India-Saudi bilateral relations and discussed cooperation on climate action," MoS Singh said on social media platform X. Earlier on Sunday, MoS Singh met Saudi Arabia's Human Resources and Social Development Minister Ahmad bin Sulaiman Alrajhi and discussed cooperation in labour and manpower sectors. "Pleased to meet Ahmad bin Sulaiman Alrajhi, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development of Saudi Arabia. Held wide-ranging discussions on further strengthening India– Saudi Arabia cooperation in the labour and manpower sector, reflecting the depth and growing momentum of our Strategic Partnership. Grateful to Ahmad
The MoS arrived in Saudi Arabia, on his first official visit, on Saturday and was received by the country's Deputy Minister for International Affairs under Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, Tariq Al Hamad. "Arrived in Riyadh on a bilateral visit to Saudi Arabia. Warmly received by Ambassador Vipul and Tariq Al Hamad, Deputy Minister for International Affairs under Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. I look forward to fruitful engagements with Saudi counterparts and meaningful interactions with the Indian diaspora and business leaders in the Kingdom," MoS Singh added on X. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), during the visit, which will go on till September 8, MoS Singh will also be meeting the Vice Minister for Environment, Water and Agriculture, as well as other dignitaries. MoS Singh will interact with a large cross-section of the Indian community in Saudi Arabia and Indian business leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals during the visit. "He (MoS Singh) will interact with Indian workers, reflecting the Indian government's unwavering commitment to the welfare of Indian workers overseas," the MEA said in a statement.
US, South Korea, Japan kick off 3-way military exercise
Seoul, Sep 7 (IANS) The United States, South Korea and Japan began a five-day joint military exercise Monday, proceeding on schedule even as key SeoulWashington drills were recently scaled back upon US President Donald Trump's order. The multidomain Freedom Edge exercise kicked off in international waters east and south of South Korea's southern island of Jeju, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff ( JCS) said in a press release. "The three nations will leverage the drills to enhance operational capabilities and joint response capabilities across multiple domains, including maritime, air and cyber, while maintaining a robust and stable cooperative relationship," the JCS said. The drills will involve major maritime and air assets from
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the armed forces of the three countries, with a joint exercise control group overseeing the operations for their systematic and safe execution, the Korean military said. The JCS stressed the exercise is an annual drill of a defensive nature, conducted in accordance with international law and norms, reports Yonhap news agency. "It is aimed at enhancing deterrence and response capabilities against North Korean nuclear and missile threats, while safeguarding regional peace and stability," it added. This year's Freedom Edge, its fourth iteration since the inaugural launch in June 2024, is being held on schedule despite the scaling back last month of the bilateral Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS) exercise between South Korea and the US. The UFS was scaled back by half after Trump ordered the drills to be reduced, in an apparent conciliatory gesture toward North Korea. Pyongyang has long denounced the allies' drills as war rehearsals.
WORLD NEWS
India, Malaysia kick off Exercise Samudra Laksamana at Lumut Naval Base
Kuala Lumpur, Sep 10 (IANS) The Samudra Laksamana bilateral exercise between the Indian Navy and the Royal Malaysian Navy started with an impressive opening ceremony at Lumut Naval Base, the High Commission of India in Malaysia said on Thursday. “INS Mysore in Malaysia. An impressive Opening Ceremony at Lumut Naval Base marked the start of the bilateral Exercise Samudra Laksamana between
the Indian Navy and the Royal Malaysian Navy. First Admiral Ahmad Sapuan Fathi bin Haji Muhammad, Deputy Commander of the Western Fleet, RMN, presided over the ceremony and welcomed INS Mysore to Malaysia,” the High Commission stated on X. “Over 600 personnel from both navies are participating in this crucial exercise, reaffirming their commitment to maritime cooperation. During the familiarisation visit to INS Mysore, the Deputy Fleet Commander and other senior RMN officials were briefed on the Ship’s capabilities and key features,” it added. INS Mysore arrived at Lumut Naval Base on Wednesday. “Indian Navy Ship INS Mysore arrived at Lumut Naval Base, Malaysia, on 09 September 2026 and received a warm welcome from the Royal Malaysian Navy
(RMN) delegation,” the High Commission of India in Malaysia stated on X. “In the coming days, INS Mysore, along with RMN Ships KD Lekir and KD Gagah Samudera, will participate in the bilateral Exercise Samudra Laksamana. In addition, the visit will witness professional interactions, focused briefings and cross-ship visits, thus strengthening maritime cooperation and enhancing interoperability between the two navies,” it added. The High Commission further said that this visit by INS Mysore to Malaysia aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of 2026 as the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation. Last month, the Indian Air Force (IAF) stated that exercise 'Udara Shakti 2026' strengthened interoperability and mutual learning between the IAF and Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF).
UN experts raise alarm over extrajudicial killing of civilian by Pakistani forces in Balochistan
Geneva, Sep 4 (IANS) The United Nations experts on Friday expressed grave concern over the alleged enforced disappearance, torture, and extrajudicial killing of Baloch civilian Imran Ali by Pakistani forces in Balochistan and called on Islamabad to conduct a prompt and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding his detention and death. The experts noted that during
a hearing before Pakistan’s Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances last month, a police officer stated that Ali had been killed in an alleged encounter in May 2026. They highlighted that it took authorities approximately one month to identify his body. Authorities claimed they were unable to preserve Ali’s remains and subsequently buried him in June 2026. According to the experts, on August 27, 2025, Ali was abducted from his residence by approximately 20 agents from Pakistan’s Counter-Terrorism Department and was taken to an undisclosed location.
His family received no official information regarding his fate or whereabouts for one year, while individuals formerly detained with Ali confirmed after their release that he had been held in custody. Ali was reportedly tortured for several days while in detention, the experts mentioned. “Any deprivation of liberty followed by the authorities’ refusal to acknowledge the detention or by the concealment of the fate or whereabouts of that person is an enforced disappearance, and it places victims outside the protection of the law, in violation of a peremptory norm of international law,” they added.
IAF chief in UAE as both countries explore avenues to strengthen defence cooperation
Abu Dhabi, Sep 4 (IANS) Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Air Chief Marshal A P Singh on Friday explored avenues to strengthen India-UAE cooperation in military and defence fields during his meeting with Major General Staff Rashid Mohammed Al Shamsi, Commander of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Air Force and Air Defence. “The UAE Air Force and Air Defence received Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, Chief of the Air Staff of the Indian Air
Force, and his accompanying delegation. During the meeting, the two sides discussed a range of issues of mutual interest and explored avenues for further strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in the military and defence fields, in a manner that supports their joint efforts and contributes to enhancing security and stability in the region,” UAE's Ministry of Defence stated on X. In June, the UAE’s Land Forces' Deputy Commander, Brigadier General Staff Mohamed Khamees Mohamed Al-Hassani, called on Indian Army chief, General Upendra Dwivedi, in New Delhi and held discussions on enhancing bilateral military cooperation. “Brigadier General Staff Mohamed
Khamees Mohamed Al-Hassani, Deputy Commander, United Arab Emirates Land Forces, called on General Upendra Dwivedi, COAS. The interaction underscored the growing depth of IndiaUAE defence relations, with discussions focused on enhancing bilateral military cooperation, expanding professional exchanges and identifying new avenues for collaboration between the two armies," the Indian Army’s Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) wrote on X. According to the ADGPI, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening institutional ties, fostering mutual trust and advancing a shared vision for regional security and stability.
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Sept 16-30, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 3
INDIA NEWS
NATIONAL NEWS
Australia missing early warning system Man hospitalised after for AI threats: Intelligence chief shark attack in Australia
Canberra, Sep 15 (IANS) The head of Australia's cyber intelligence agency has warned that the country needs an early warning system for threats posed by AI. Abigail Bradshaw, directorgeneral of the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD), told a summit in Canberra on Monday that AI attacks could exploit outdated technology being used by governments and businesses. She called for organizations to
embrace AI as a defensive tool and said that intelligence and security agencies must work with AI companies to identify early risks, Xinhua news agency reported. It comes as Australian politicians and AI company executives respond to a growing international chorus of warnings the race to develop AI could outstrip humanity's ability to control it. "What we are missing at the moment, which we have in a cyber context but we don't yet have it formalized in an AI context, is an early warning system," Bradshaw said. The summit in Canberra was held days after Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei on Saturday called for the industry to slow down and for third-party evaluators to
verify models' adherence to safety measures. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and xAI's Elon Musk both said they agreed with Amodei. In response, Australian Assistant Minister for Science, Technology and the Digital Economy Andrew Charlton said on Monday that he does not want technology companies or the United States to be solely responsible for setting AI guardrails. "I don't think we should care very much about what individual chief executives say or what individual executives claim they want to happen," he said. "I am not in favor of leaving it to the companies and I'm not in favor of leaving it to the superpowers."
India batting for Global South interests without turning BRICS anti-West: Report
Canberra, Sep 11 (IANS) India wants BRICS to advocate the interests of the Global South without turning the grouping anti-West, a report has highlighted. “China’s President Xi Jinping is now confirmed to arrive in New Delhi this weekend for the first time in seven years, reportedly accompanied by a delegation of around 400 officials. The will-he/ won’t-he question of whether Xi would ultimately attend the talks
drove local media into a frenzy, but attention will also turn to the presence of Russian President Vladimir Putin at the BRICS summit hosted by India, and to the many bilateral meetings, including with Iran, on the sidelines,” a report in Australiabased ‘The Interpreter' detailed. “Images of Xi, Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi together in the national capital are likely to spark commentary that India is drifting away from the West, amid US President Donald Trump’s tariff pressure and growing uncertainty about US policy,” the report stated. Quoting External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar, it said, India
is “non-Western, not antiWestern”. The report noted that India views itself as a reformist power rather than a revisionist one, pushing for a greater role in global governance, a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, and more influence over financial and technological rulemaking. It seeks to alter parts of the international order while preserving a system that has been central to its own rise. “India’s turn as BRICS chair reflects that approach. This year’s discussions on food security, emerging technologies and trade have focused more on strengthening existing institutions than replacing them.
Indian Navy chief meets Australian counterpart in Canberra, discusses deepening maritime cooperation
Canberra, Sep 11 (IANS) Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Krishna Swaminathan on Friday met Australian Navy Chief Vice Admiral Matthew Buckley at the Russell Office, administrative headquarters of the Australian Defence Force in Canberra. According to the Indian Navy, during the meeting the two sides discussed ways to deepen maritime partnership and expand engagement between the navies of India and Australia through joint exercises in 2027. “The two Chiefs reviewed the progress of bilateral naval cooperation and discussed avenues to further enhance
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interoperability and operational engagement, including through multiple exercise opportunities in 2027. Adm Swaminathan, accompanied by VAdm Buckley, also paid homage at the Australian War Memorial, honouring the memory and sacrifice of those who served,” the Indian Navy posted on X. Later in the day, Admiral Swaminathan also held a meeting with Adm Mark Hammond, Chief of the Australian Defence Force in Canberra. The discussions focused on the growing strategic depth of the India –Australia defence partnership, advancing the implementation of the Maritime Security Collaboration Roadmap and identifying opportunities to deepen interoperability and cooperation across the maritime domain. “The interaction also reflected a
shared commitment to translating strategic convergence into tangible outcomes that contribute to a secure, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific,” the Indian Navy posted on X. Earlier in the day, Admiral Swaminathan was accorded a warm traditional welcome at the Russell Office, featuring a Smoking Ceremony reflecting Australia’s indigenous heritage, followed by a ceremonial Guard of Honour. “The ceremonial welcome marked the commencement of CNS engagements in Canberra during his official visit to Australia,” the Indian Navy stated. On Thursday, the Indian Navy Chief Swaminathan met Rear Admiral Anita William, Commander of Australian Fleet (COMAUSFLT), at the historic and strategic naval facility HMAS Kuttabul in Sydney.
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Sydney, Sep 14 (IANS) A man has been hospitalised after he was attacked by a shark off the coast of Western Australia (WA) on Monday morning. The WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development reported that the shark incident occurred at Glenfield Beach, 380 km north of Perth, around 9:45 a.m. local time on Monday. Two ambulance crews were dispatched to the scene and a man in his 50s was rushed to hospital as a priority emergency, reports Xinhua news agency. Local media reported that the incident occurred about 40 meters offshore and the victim suffered serious leg injuries. The species or size of the shark involved has not been identified.
Members of the public have been advised to take additional caution in the area. Similar incidents have occurred in Australia in the past as well. Last year, a teenager was hospitalised with life-threatening injuries after being bitten by a shark in Australia's far north and remained in a critical condition. Emergency services were called to Thursday Island off the north coast of the Australian state of Queensland following reports that a male aged in his mid-teens had been attacked by a shark while swimming. The teenager was transported to a local hospital with lifethreatening abdominal injuries before being airlifted over 1,000 kilometres to a hospital in the Queensland city of Townsville. A spokesperson for Queensland Health said that the boy remained in a critical condition. The species of shark involved in the attack was not identified. Separately, on September 6, 2025, a surfer died after being attacked by a shark at a beach in northern Sydney.
Australian PM announces opt-out laws for social media algorithms
Canberra, Sep 8 (IANS) Australians will be able to opt out of content algorithms on social media platforms under proposed laws, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Tuesday. Albanese told reporters at Parliament House that the digital duty of care laws would require social media platforms to give users the choice to opt out of algorithms and only see content from accounts that they follow. Additionally, Albanese and Australia's Communications Minister Anika Wells said the proposed laws would require platforms to protect users younger than 18 from harmful content, including content that promotes eating disorders, misogynistic content and content that glorifies crime, Xinhua News Agency reported. Platforms found to breach the new regulations will face fines worth up to 100 million Australian dollars (about 72.1 million US dollars). "It's about giving people control. It's about putting choice back into
the hands of Australians online," Albanese said. Wells described the new laws as the next step forward in requiring technology companies to take responsibility for the harms caused by their platforms. "For too long, tech companies have been running real-time unregulated product testing on Australians, and their platforms and tools have infiltrated our daily lives in ways we could have never imagined," she said. "There is a global reckoning coming for big tech." Wells said, "When it comes to social media, Australians over the age of 16 will be able to opt in or opt out of the algorithm easily. The duty of care will require platforms to give users over 16 choice on what feed they see when they open the app – and to respect that choice." "The digital duty of care will ensure online service providers – including some of the most powerful companies in the world – step up and do more to keep Australians safe from harm on their platforms," she added. It comes after Albanese's Labor Party government in 2024 legislated a world-first social media ban for children younger than 16, which came into effect in December 2025. Albanese and Wells said in June that the government would double the maximum fine for breaches of the minimum age law to 99 million Australian dollars.
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Sept 16-30, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 3
EDITORIAL
From the editor’s desk
Australia–India’s technology partnership
Partners beyond diplomacy
By Rohit Kumar
T
he meeting between India’s High Commissioner to Australia, Nagesh Singh, and Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann MP, Chair of the Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade, is a reminder that the Australia–India relationship is being shaped not only by governments and diplomats, but by institutional engagement. As cooperation expands across trade, investment, technology and security, parliamentary dialogue has acquired greater importance. AustraliaandIndia have moved well beyond a relationship once associated mainly with education, migration and people-to-people connections. Their strategic interests have broadened over the longer term with the changing Indo-Pacific and the restructuring of the global economy. Both countries have an interest in resilient supply chains, economic diversification, technological capability and a stable regional order. These converging interests offer opportunity, but they also require sustained political attention. Parliamentary engagement is an important part of that process. Foreign policy is generally driven by executive governments, yet durable international partnerships need understanding across political institutions. Parliamentary committees provide a forum for examining foreign affairs, defence and trade closely and can help develop a broader appreciation of relationships whose significance extends beyond electoral cycles. The Singh-Neumann meeting is therefore notable for its institutional character. It brought together India’s senior diplomatic representative in Australia and an Australian parliamentarian involved in foreign affairs, defence and trade. Such exchanges can deepen mutual understanding, identify areas of practical cooperation and ensure that bilateral ties remain connected to the priorities of both countries. The strategic importance of the relationship is increasingly clear. For India, Australia is an important partner in the Indo-Pacific. For Australia, India is becoming a significant economic, technological and strategic partner. Democratic values provide a firm foundation, but values alone cannot sustain a partnership. They must be translated into practical cooperation and dependable institutions. Economic engagement remains central. The Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement has given
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bilateral commerce additional momentum, while businesses on both sides are looking towards deeper investment and more integrated supply chains. The proposed Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement could provide a framework for expanding market access. Continued political engagement will be important to maintaining momentum and addressing differences as negotiations progress. Technology presents another substantial opportunity. Artificial intelligence, critical technologies, digital infrastructure, cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing are increasingly linked to both economic competitiveness and national security. India brings scale, technological talent and a rapidly expanding digital economy; Australia offers strong research institutions, resources and specialised expertise. Greater collaboration could strengthen capabilities in both countries while contributing to resilience amid global uncertainty. Defence and strategic cooperation require the same consistency. The Indo-Pacific is experiencing significant geopolitical change, making communication among partners necessary. Bilateral and multilateral mechanisms have expanded cooperation, but sustained parliamentary understanding can help reinforce support for strategic engagement. The partnership should also extend beyond national capitals. Indian states and Australian states and territories have scope to build links in education, business, research, technology and skills. Universities, companies and community organisations can contribute to relationships that are practical, durable and responsive to local opportunities. The Indian-Australian community is an equally important bridge. Its contribution to business, education, medicine, technology and public life gives the bilateral relationship a strong social foundation. People-to-people connections can reinforce strategic ties by creating familiarity and trust at a level that official diplomacy cannot achieve alone. The meeting between Singh and Neumann should therefore be seen as part of an effort to give the Australia–India partnership greater institutional depth. Strong international relationships are built gradually through diplomatic contact, parliamentary dialogue, commercial cooperation and connections among citizens.
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he Australia–India strategic partnership is entering a phase in which technology is no longer a specialised area of cooperation but an increasingly important part of national security, economic resilience and regional stability. Cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, critical technologies and secure supply chains are becoming closely connected, creating a new dimension to the relationship between the two countries. That shift was evident during the recent visit to Australia by Amit Shukla, Joint Secretary (Cyber Diplomacy) in India's Ministry of External Affairs. Shukla met Jessica Hunter, Australia's Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology, for discussions on strengthening the continuing Australia–India partnership in cyber and critical technologies. The discussions also focused on implementing the Australia–India Partnership on Cyber, Critical Technologies and Supply Chains, or PACTS, giving the framework a practical dimension beyond its formal launch. PACTS was launched on July 9, 2026, during the third Australia–India Annual Summit in Melbourne. It provides a broader platform for cooperation in cybersecurity, critical technologies and resilient supply chains, reflecting how closely these areas are now linked to the strategic interests of both countries. The timing is significant. The Indo-Pacific is becoming more technologically connected while also becoming more exposed to cyber threats and supply-chain disruptions. Governments are increasingly concerned not only about whether they can obtain essential technologies and components, but also about whether the systems on which their economies and critical infrastructure depend can be trusted and protected. For Australia and India, technological resilience is therefore becoming an essential component of strategic resilience. Cybersecurity illustrates the change particularly well. Digital networks now support banking, communications, transport, energy, healthcare, government services and industrial production. A serious cyberattack can consequently have consequences far beyond the computer system that is initially targeted. Cybersecurity cooperation between Australia and India can help address this vulnerability through greater informationsharing, institutional cooperation, technical expertise and the development of trusted practices. But the partnership cannot stop at protecting existing systems. The technologies transforming economies are themselves
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becoming strategic assets. Artificial intelligence, advanced computing, telecommunications, quantum technologies and other emerging fields will increasingly determine economic competitiveness as well as military and national-security capabilities. This makes the question of who develops these technologies important. Equally important is the question of how they are governed, secured and integrated into critical systems. Shukla's participation in a panel on AI adoption across the Indo-Pacific at the TSD Artificial Intelligence Masterclass 2026, organised by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute in Canberra, was therefore more than an accompanying engagement during his visit. It reflected the growing intersection between AI and the wider technology partnership. Artificial intelligence presents enormous opportunities for both countries. It can improve productivity, accelerate research, strengthen public services and create new industries. But greater dependence on AI also creates new vulnerabilities involving data, cybersecurity, autonomous systems and the integrity of digital infrastructure. AI security and cybersecurity will increasingly have to be considered together. The same is true of supply chains. The disruptions experienced across the global economy in recent years have demonstrated the danger of excessive dependence on concentrated sources of critical goods and technologies. Semiconductors, critical minerals, energy technologies and advanced components have acquired a strategic importance that goes well beyond ordinary commercial trade. Australia and India have complementary strengths in this area. Australia possesses substantial natural resources and expertise in critical minerals, while India brings a large technology sector, manufacturing ambitions, scientific capabilities and one of the world's most extensive digital ecosystems. Greater cooperation can help both countries diversify supply chains while creating opportunities for investment, research and industrial development. The importance of this cooperation extends beyond their bilateral relationship. Australia and India are both deeply invested in the stability of the Indo-Pacific. They work together through the Quad with Japan and the United States, while maintaining wider economic and strategic relationships across the region. A stronger bilateral technology partnership can therefore contribute to a broader regional network of trusted technological cooperation. The objective should not be to
create technological blocs that divide the Indo-Pacific. It should be to build greater resilience and choice. That distinction will become increasingly important as competition over critical technologies intensifies. Countries will seek reliable suppliers, trusted digital infrastructure and secure access to strategic technologies. Those that can build diversified partnerships will be better positioned to withstand economic shocks and geopolitical pressure. PACTS can provide Australia and India with a mechanism to pursue that objective together. Its value, however, will ultimately be judged by implementation rather than declarations. The framework needs to produce practical cooperation — stronger cyber capabilities, greater sharing of expertise, technology partnerships, resilient supply chains, skills development and collaboration with other countries across the Indo-Pacific. There is also an important role for the private sector and research institutions. Governments can establish frameworks and standards, but businesses, universities and technology organisations are often at the forefront of developing and deploying new technologies. Bringing these communities into the partnership will be essential if cooperation is to produce lasting results. The broader strategic relationship between Australia and India has already expanded considerably over the past decade. Defence and maritime security remain important, but the foundations of national power are changing. Digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, critical minerals, data and advanced technologies are increasingly becoming part of the security equation. The latest discussions show that both countries recognise this transformation. For India, deeper technology cooperation with Australia can strengthen its ability to participate in secure and diversified technology networks while expanding its role in shaping the rules governing emerging technologies. For Australia, India represents a major technology, investment and manufacturing partner as Canberra seeks to strengthen economic and strategic resilience. For the Indo-Pacific, closer cooperation between the two countries can contribute to a regional environment in which technological advancement is accompanied by greater security and trust. The challenge now is to ensure that the ambition behind PACTS is translated into measurable outcomes. The Australia–India partnership has already demonstrated that strategic cooperation can expand well beyond traditional diplomacy.
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INDIA NEWS
Sept 16-30, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 3
SPOTLIGHT STORIES
ED’s journal ‘Pravartan Sandesh’ How the humble coir is transforming rural lives in India friendly packaging solutions. her own enterprise. She has wins Hindi Diwas-2026 award The Central Coir Research trained nearly 120 women in
New Delhi, Sep 14 (IANS)
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he Enforcement Directorate (ED)'s Hindi Journal 'Pravartan Sandesh' has been conferred the "Rajbhasha Kirti Puraskar 202526" (Second Prize under Region 'A') by the Department of Official Language under the Ministry of Home Affairs, an official said on Monday. The Puraskar was presented by Ministers of State for Home Bandi Sanjay Kumar and Nityanand Rai on Monday on the occasion of the Hindi Diwas-2026 and the Sixth All India Official Language Conference, held in Mumbai, an official statement said. The event was organised under the chairmanship of Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
The conferment of the "Rajbhasha Kirti Puraskar" is a significant national recognition of the ED's commitment to the effective implementation of the Official language Hindi, the statement said. 'Pravartan Sandesh' is the Hindi in-house Journal of the ED. "Through the Hindi journal, an endeavour is made to present complex legal, financial and investigative subjects pertaining to the central probe agency's domain, along with activities relating to the Official language Hindi, in a simple, accessible and effective manner," the statement said. The journal seeks not only to present the various dimensions of the Directorate's work comprehensively in Hindi, but also to promote the progressive use of Hindi as the Official Language in official work, it added. During 2025-26, Issue 9 of 'Pravartan Sandesh' was centred on the theme 'ED's Campaign against Terror Financing'. The issue prominently showcased the Directorate's actions against terror financing, besides covering various dimensions of financial crime and matters concerning national and economic security, the statement said.
PM Modi-Xi meeting sets positive trajectory for India-China ties: CCP mouthpiece
Beijing, Sep 14 (IANS)
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hina and India should translate the understandings reached at the recent meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi into concrete action, the country’s biggest English language newspaper 'China Daily' opined after the conclusion of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi on Sunday. It noted that while addressing their differences through dialogue and negotiation, the two countries should explore fresh avenues of cooperation and generate positive momentum for long-term good-neighbourly coexistence. “The meeting between President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi
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underscored the importance of partnership and development, setting a pragmatic trajectory for Sino-Indian relations. The two leaders emphasized the strategic importance of the relationship and stressed that the hardwon stability of ties illustrates the potential for further collaboration,” an editorial in ‘China Daily’ detailed. “Both countries can draw on each other's strengths to pursue common development, supporting one another and helping each other succeed,” it added. According to the state-owned daily, a mouthpiece for the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), meetings between Xi and PM Modi in recent years have played a key role in stabilising ties and preventing differences from impacting the overall relationship. Citing data from China’s General Administration of Customs, it said bilateral goods trade grew 12.4 per cent year-on-year to a record $155.6 billion in 2025. “China has re-emerged as India's largest trading partner in the 2025-26 Indian fiscal year. Their economies are also intertwined: Chinese industrial supplies underpin India's manufacturing, while India offers a vast market for Chinese goods," the newspaper noted.
New Delhi, Sep 14 (IANS)
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ndia is the world’s largest producer of coir and accounts for more than 80 per cent of global coir fibre production, but the industry is also closely linked with women's livelihoods as they account for nearly 80 per cent of those engaged in fibre extraction and spinning. This makes coir an important rural livelihood sector -connecting coconut farmers, workers, women artisans, cooperatives, entrepreneurs, manufacturers and exporters, according to a factsheet issued by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). What begins as coconut husk is becoming a source of enterprise and livelihood across India’s coconut-growing regions. The potential of coir extends well beyond the production of raw fibre. Through processing, design and innovation, coir can be transformed into a wide range of higher-value products, including mats, ropes, brushes and other household products, decorative items, handicrafts, and eco-
Institute has developed ecofriendly coir rail wheel axle packaging cups as an alternative to HDPE plastic cups. Such innovations show how a traditional natural fibre can find applications in modern industries while supporting environmentally responsible production. With support from the MSME Ministry, particularly through the Coir Board and the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), coir is becoming a pathway to self-employment, women’s empowerment and local economic growth. In Kadiyam, East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, Allam Gowthamy transformed coconut fibre and coir waste into a successful enterprise. She received specialised training at the Coir Board Training Centre, Dhawaleswaram and established Adigo Coir Products in 2024–25 with a project cost of Rs 10 lakh, supported by a Rs 6.50 lakh bank loan and PMEGP assistance. The unit now produces eco-friendly doormats, ropes, decorative dolls, and handicrafts, the factsheet states. The enterprise has achieved an annual turnover of around Rs 35 lakh and a profit of approximately Rs 10 lakh, while generating direct employment for six women. But her impact extends beyond
coir mat weaving, rope making and handicraft production, helping them develop livelihood opportunities. Her success has also inspired around 5 additional coir units in nearby areas with the PMEGP. Another example of turning coir pith into an opportunity for sustainable agriculture is that of P. Surendran, who established Sampoorna Plus Agro Fertiliser Enterprises (SAFE) in Kerala's Kozhikode in November 2024. With training and technical support from the Coir Board, Kannur and Central Coir Research Institute (CCRI), Kalavoor, he began producing eco-friendly coir pith biofertilizer that improves soil fertility and moisture retention.
conduct advanced, applicationoriented research. The proposed institution will collaborate with leading universities, research centres and industries in India and abroad. Anna University will coordinate the initial partnerships and design specialised degree programmes aligned with developments in advanced technologies. The institute will focus on building a pool of highly skilled graduates and researchers capable of contributing to emerging industrial and scientific sectors. Its academic programmes are expected to combine classroom learning with research, product development and industry-based applications. The Higher Education Department is simultaneously working to establish an institute of excellence dedicated to basic sciences. Legislation required for setting up the institution is likely to be introduced during the current academic year. Modelled on the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru, the proposed institute will have degree-awarding powers and concentrate on postgraduate education, doctoral programmes and postdoctoral research. Its principal fields
will include physics, chemistry, mathematics and computational biology. Tamil Nadu also plans to collaborate with internationally recognised research institutions to develop academic programmes and research facilities that meet global standards. Around 30 prominent institutions currently undertake basic science research across India. Tamil Nadu is expected to become the third state, after Kerala and Odisha, to establish a state-level research institute exclusively for basic sciences. Alongside these initiatives, the government has relaxed requirements for establishing private universities. The minimum land requirement has been reduced from 100 acres to 12 acres in Chennai and 18 acres in other municipal corporation areas. The mandatory endowment fund has also been lowered from Rs 50 crore to Rs 25 crore. The changes are intended to attract credible educational institutions, encourage investment and expand access to specialised higher education and research facilities across the state.
In just one year, his enterprise has built a customer base of 500+, sold over 20 tonnes of bio-fertiliser, and generated a turnover of Rs 13 lakh, with a profit of Rs 4 lakh in FY 2024–25. The unit also employs five workers, including two women, creating local livelihood opportunities. From coir waste to a sustainable business, his journey shows how innovation and technical support can create new business opportunities from materials that might otherwise have limited economic value, the factsheet added.
TN govt plans university for AI, quantum computing, other emerging technologies
Chennai, Sep 15 (IANS)
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he Tamil Nadu Higher Education Department is preparing to establish a specialised university focusing on emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, biotechnology, climate technology and space technology. The proposed Periyar Institute of Emerging Technology will initially function as an autonomous institute under Anna University. The university has been entrusted with preparing a detailed project report covering its academic structure, infrastructure, research priorities, funding requirements and international collaborations. The institute is expected to begin its first academic session within five months. The government’s long-term plan is to transform it into an independent university with powers to award degrees and
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INDIA NEWS
BIZ BUZZ
BRICS business bodies push for scaling women-led India to host World Circular enterprises, stronger trade and investment Economy Forum 2026 in
New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) The BRICS business bodies -- BRICS Women's Business Alliance and BRICS Business Council -- on Sunday called for greater opportunities for women entrepreneurs, stronger intraBRICS trade and investment and
deeper business cooperation to drive growth across the grouping. Presenting the 2026 Annual Report under India's chairship, BRICS WBA Chairperson Avarna Jain said women across BRICS are building businesses, creating jobs, driving innovation and contributing to economic growth. "The next step is to enable more women entrepreneurs to move from participation to leadership, from small enterprise to scale and from success in one market to opportunities across BRICS," Jain said. She said women's economic
empowerment and leadership should be viewed as an economic strategy rather than a sectoral issue. The WBA's recommendations focus on creating conditions for women-led enterprises to grow, expanding access to capital and innovation, strengthening resilience through women-led solutions and scaling successful initiatives across BRICS, Jain said. Jain also acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership in placing womenled development at the centre of India's growth story.
India’s semiconductor industry attracts $1.4 billion in equity funding: Report
New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) India's semiconductor sector has attracted a cumulative $1.4 billion in equity funding across 281 funded companies with nearly half of the total capital, around $701 million raised since 2025, according to a report. A report by Tracxn showed that the nation currently hosts 3,557 semiconductor-related companies. Of these, 281 firms have secured funding, while 142 have raised equity investments and the chip
industry has garnered $228 million in funding so far in 2026, it said. The analysis comes ahead of SEMICON India 2026 conference and exhibition which is scheduled to be held from September 17 to 19 here that will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The report highlighted electronic manufacturing services (EMS) as the largest funding segment, attracting $313 million since 2025. In addition, embedded hardware ranked second and secured $51.9 million over the same period with all of it raised within the last 12 months. While Power Management Integrated Circuits and Fabless Semiconductor Manufacturers also featured among the leading categories by funding. According to the report, annual funding in the sector increased
sharply from $49 million in 2021 to $473 million in 2025, a five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of more than 36 per cent. City-wise, Bengaluru remained India's leading semiconductor hub, accounting for 626 companies or around 18 per cent of the sector's total firms. The city also contributed 40.1 per cent of all equity funding raised to date. However, Noida, Gurugram, Kochi and Hyderabad followed in terms of funding share. On exits, acquisitions remained the preferred route with 62 acquisitions recorded compared to 42 initial public offerings (IPOs). The report noted that companies reached acquisition in an average of 11.8 years from their first funding round, while firms that went public took an average of 16.5 years.
India-France cement space ties with focus on human flight, industry cooperation
New Delhi, Sep 4 (IANS) India and France on Friday agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation in space, including in human spaceflight, advanced space technologies, and greater engagement between their space agencies and industries at a virtual meeting held between Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Space Dr Jitendra Singh and his French counterpart Prof Philippe Baptiste. The discussions took place ahead of the International Space Summit, scheduled for September 9-10, in Paris, and the Bengaluru Space Expo, scheduled for September 7-9. Both sides discussed India’s participation in the Paris Summit
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and France’s participation in the Bengaluru Space Expo, along with the forthcoming visit of Prof Baptiste to India later this month, according to an official statement issued after the meeting. Dr Jitendra Singh said India looks forward to participating in the International Space Summit and to further strengthening its longstanding space partnership with France. He said the Summit’s focus on space science, technology and applications, space economy and secure space provides an important platform for international dialogue and cooperation on the future of the space sector. India welcomed the proposed Summit deliverables on the sustainable use of outer space, accessibility, openness and integrity of space-based scientific data, and support for the International Telecommunication Union’s regulatory framework for
frequency management. Dr Singh conveyed India’s readiness to exchange views with the French side during the finalisation of these initiatives. A key focus of the discussions was India’s contribution to the Paris Summit. Chairman, ISRO/ Secretary, Department of Space, has been invited to deliver the opening keynote on India’s future human spaceflight in Low Earth Orbit. Dr Singh also conveyed that, if considered useful by the French side, members of the Indian delegation could make presentations on additional areas, including design and manufacturing technologies in space, connectivity from space and exploration beyond the International Space Station. Prof Baptiste expressed France’s desire to further strengthen and accelerate the existing IndiaFrance cooperation in space.
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Gandhinagar from Sep 15
New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) India will host the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) 2026 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, from September 15 to 18, marking the first time the global forum will be held in South Asia, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change said on Sunday. The forum will be organised under the theme “Circular Economy: Transition for People and Prosperity” and will be jointly inaugurated on September 15 by Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel. The inaugural session will also be attended by Gujarat Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister Arjunbhai Modhwadia, Ambassador of Finland to India Mikko Kivikoski and Marieke Spijkerboer from the Netherlands’ Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate, along with senior officials from the Centre and Gujarat government. The ministry said circularity focuses on reusing, refurbishing
and recycling existing materials and products and returning them to the economy as valuable resources. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India is undertaking a major transformation in environmental governance with a focus on advancing a modern circular economy. WCEF 2026 is being jointly organised by the Central Pollution Control Board, the Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra, Government of Finland, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of Gujarat and Gujarat Pollution Control Board. The forum is expected to bring together more than 2,000 stakeholders from over 65 countries, including business leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, researchers, policymakers, academicians and other changemakers. It will showcase India’s initiatives on circularity and provide a platform for strengthening international cooperation, particularly with the Global South. The event will also focus on mobilising circular finance and private-sector investment, promoting policy dialogue and cross-sector partnerships, and advancing innovation, digitalisation and technology for circularity.
Eliminating non-tariff barriers can solve 75 pc of engineering exporters’ issues: Industry
New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) Engineering exporters' body on Sunday urged BRICS nations to eliminate non-tariff barriers and establish a smooth payment mechanism in national currencies to facilitate trade and address challenges faced by exporters. According to the apex body EEPC India, this decision would reduce the industry’s problems by up to 75 per cent. "Around 75 per cent of the problems faced by exporters can be solved by eliminating non-tariff barriers and having a smooth and efficient payment mechanism in individual national currencies," EEPC India Chairman Pankaj Chadha said. He said a common agreement on non-tariff barriers among BRICS nations is the need of the hour. "We can have a common agreement on non-tariff barriers
between BRICS nations and agree to a set of standards. While we have been discussing this for a while now, it is time to move to its execution," Chadha said. Non-tariff measures are widely considered to impose higher costs on exports than tariffs in many countries, underscoring the need to simplify regulatory procedures among trade partners. With BRICS accounting for nearly one-fourth of global trade, reducing non-tariff barriers could further increase the bloc's share in international commerce, according to the industry. Such trade facilitation measures are expected to particularly benefit India's engineering sector which remains one of the country's largest export segments. According to the latest industry data, engineering goods contribute nearly 27 per cent of India's total merchandise exports. Among BRICS economies, key destinations for Indian engineering exports include Brazil, China, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia and South Africa.
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Sept 16-30, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 3
TRUMP EFFECT
US lawmakers press Trump US court blocks Trump mail-ballot overhaul have been required to submit the governing emergency relief did over Venezuela oil deal profits designs for federal approval and not favour lifting the injunction.
Washington, Sep 5 (IANS) Indian American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has demanded that President Donald Trump disclose whether he, his family, political allies or major donors stand to financially benefit from his administration’s Venezuela oil agreement before substantial US taxpayer resources are committed. Krishnamoorthi, a Democrat from Illinois and senior member of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee and House Intelligence Committee, raised the questions in a letter to Trump and asked for answers by September 14. Trump announced the agreement on August 28, saying it would give the United States “majority US control of more than 65 billion barrels of proven oil reserves” in Venezuela, according to Krishnamoorthi’s office. The Congressman said the White House had described the agreement as including a 35 per cent US stake in the corporate parent of North American Blue Energy Partners, or NABEP, as well as preferential rights to purchase some of its oil production.
Krishnamoorthi said the limited information made public about the deal raised questions about its beneficiaries and the extent of US government involvement. “Given the limited information your Administration has made public, conflicting statements from Venezuela’s acting President, and questions of the legality of the agreement, I have serious concerns, including whether you, members of your family, your political allies, or major donors stand to financially benefit from this arrangement,” Krishnamoorthi wrote. “Therefore, I urge you to provide greater transparency regarding this deal before the United States commits substantial capital to Venezuela’s energy sector.” The Congressman also raised concerns about Venezuelan businessman Alejandro Betancourt, who leads NABEP. Krishnamoorthi’s office said Betancourt had faced investigations in Switzerland, Spain and the United States involving alleged money laundering and had been identified as a conspirator in a Miami criminal complaint involving funds from Venezuela’s state-owned oil company PDVSA. The release also said Rudy Giuliani, Trump’s personal lawyer at the time, had represented Betancourt in discussions with Justice Department officials.
Trump envoys reach Kyiv after talks with Putin
Washington, Sep 6 (IANS) US President Donald Trump’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner arrived in Kyiv on Sunday for talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky after a three-hour meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow produced no announced breakthrough. It is their first official visit to Ukraine in their roles as Trump’s peace negotiators and comes as Washington tries to revive efforts to end Russia’s more than fouryear-old war against Ukraine. Senior Ukrainian officials received the two envoys in Kyiv. National security representatives from France, Germany and Britain were also expected to participate in the discussions, underscoring Europe’s push for a role in negotiations over any settlement. Witkoff and Kushner travelled
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to the Ukrainian capital after meeting Putin at the Kremlin on Saturday. The Kremlin confirmed the talks but released few details about their substance or outcome. A White House official said the parties discussed the war and possible next steps. No agreement or timetable for further negotiations was announced immediately after the Moscow meeting. Zelensky had confirmed the envoys’ itinerary ahead of their arrival. “Today, it has been clearly established that US envoys will be in Ukraine and Russia in the coming days,” Zelensky said in an address released by his office. “We have the details from the US President’s team.” “We discussed today that Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner will visit Moscow and then Kyiv on Sunday,” he said. Zelensky also spoke with Witkoff and Kushner by telephone on Saturday as they began discussions with the Russian side. His office said Ukraine was prepared to observe a temporary suspension of airstrikes against cities involved in the negotiating process.
Washington, Sep 15 (IANS) The US Supreme Court on Monday (local time) blocked the Trump administration from enforcing sweeping new postal requirements for mail ballots in the November midterm elections. The justices rejected an emergency appeal seeking to suspend a lower court injunction against the US Postal Service rules. “The Government is unlikely to succeed on the merits of its challenge to the District Court’s preliminary injunction,” the court said in an unsigned order. It added that the factors
The decision does not settle whether the Postal Service has the legal authority to impose the requirements in future elections. It effectively prevents their use in the Nov. 3 midterms, when control of the House and Senate will be decided. Nearly one-third of American voters used mail ballots in 2024, according to The Wall Street Journal. The Washington Post put the number at about one-third of voters. The Postal Service adopted the rules in August following an executive order signed by President Donald Trump in March. They would have required states to redesign ballot envelopes with election-mail logos, machine-readable features and specialised barcodes unique to each voter. States would also
upload voter names, addresses and barcode information to a new Postal Service portal. Mailings that failed to comply would not have been accepted and would have been returned to state election authorities. Election officials said they could not implement the changes so close to voting. North Carolina and Wisconsin had already begun mailing ballots. More than a dozen other states were preparing to send ballots by the end of the week, The New York Times reported. About 300,000 absentee ballots had already been sent in North Carolina. “Voting has begun,” North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson said. “You don’t change the rules in the middle of the election.”
Trump unveils sweeping midterm agenda
Washington, Sep 11 (IANS) US President Donald Trump has laid out a sweeping Republican agenda for the November midterm elections, promising changes to healthcare payments, permanent tax cuts, tighter border laws and stricter voting requirements if his party retains control of Congress. Addressing a Republican convention in Dallas, Trump urged his supporters to treat the
congressional contest as if his own name were on the ballot. “You've got to pretend I'm on the ticket,” Trump said. “Because this is going to turn out to be one of the most important elections.” Trump said a Republican victory would allow his administration to end federal payments to major health insurance companies. The money would instead be given directly to individuals. “We will end all payments to big health insurance companies and give you the money directly so that you can buy your own health care and have money left over for yourself,” he said. Trump pledged to make his tax cuts permanent. He accused Democrats of seeking to raise taxes and reverse his administration’s economic
policies. “We're going to take those beautiful tax cuts. We're going to make them permanent because the Democrats want to end all those tax cuts,” Trump said. The President again promoted what he called “most favored nation prescription drug discounts”. He said Republicans would seek to place the policy permanently into US law. Trump claimed his administration had delivered the largest recorded decline in prescription drug prices. He said some reductions had reached between 50 per cent and 90 per cent. The address did not provide supporting figures for those claims. Trump called for passage of the “No Invasion of Our Country Act”, but offered few details about its
Lula says he will defend Brazil’s Pix payment system amid US tariff dispute
Sao Paulo, Sep 6 (IANS) Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said Saturday (local time) he would defend Brazil's Pix payment system in talks with US President Donald Trump, as Washington has cited the platform in its tariff dispute with Brazil. Speaking at a political event in Sao Jose do Rio Preto, in the southeastern state of Sao Paulo, Lula said he would raise the issue during a possible meeting with Trump in September on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, reports
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Xinhua news agency. "I will meet Trump at the UN and tell him to use Pix and see how good it is," Lula said. Pix was launched by Brazil's central bank in November 2020 and allows instant payments and transfers 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It has become one of Brazil's main payment methods. Lula's remarks came amid a trade dispute between Brazil and the United States, including additional tariffs of up to 25 per cent on certain Brazilian products and US criticism of Brazil's digital payment system. Earlier in August, Brazilian President has criticised the US decision to revoke the visa of Brazil's ambassador to Washington, Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti, calling the move "irresponsible and thoughtless."
Speaking in an interview with YouTube channel Meteoro Brasil, Lula said the decision was unwarranted for two countries with over two centuries of diplomatic ties, adding that Brazil will not receive new ambassadors before its general elections scheduled for October. The US Department of State announced the visa revocation on Tuesday in retaliation for Brazil's refusal last month to issue visas to two US officials, as well as its alleged delays in approving US President Donald Trump's nominee for ambassador to Brazil, Daniel Perez. In response, Lula then noted that Washington had shown little urgency regarding its diplomatic presence in Brazil, leaving its embassy without a chief representative for more than a year and a half.
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INDIA NEWS
COMMUNITY CHRONICLE
Hindi Diwas celebrated in Brisbane Brisbane to mark Ayurveda Day 2026 Brisbane, September 12 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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community programme celebrating Hindi and Indian culture was held in Brisbane, highlighting efforts to encourage the language among the younger generation in Australia. The programme was organised by Om Positive Brisbane in association with the Consulate General of India, Brisbane, according to the Consulate General. It featured Hindi poetry, essay writing, poetry recitations and cultural performances, with enthusiastic participation from members of the community, particularly children. Consul General of India in Brisbane Neetu M. Bhagotia congratulated the winners and presented certificates for their participation in essay writing and poetry recitations. The celebration underlined the community’s efforts to nurture Hindi among children and promote awareness of Indian language and cultural traditions in Australia.
Brisbane, September 8 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Australia–India deepen cyber T technology cooperation
bilateral technology partnership.
Canberra, September 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk) ustralia and India have discussed strengthening
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cooperation in cybersecurity, critical technologies and supplychain resilience, with officials exploring ways to advance their
India’s Ministry of External Affairs Joint Secretary (Cyber Diplomacy) Amit Shukla met Jessica Hunter, Australia’s Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology, during his visit to Australia, according to the High Commission of India in Canberra. The High Commission said the meeting covered the continuing Australia–India partnership in cyber and critical technologies, with both sides exchanging ideas on implementing the Australia– India Partnership on Cyber, Critical Technologies and Supply Chains (PACTS). The PACTS framework was launched in July 2026 during the Australia–India Annual Summit in Melbourne and provides a broader framework for cooperation on cybersecurity, critical technologies and resilient supply chains, according to The Australia Today. During his visit, Shukla also participated in a panel on AI adoption across the Indo-Pacific at the TSD Artificial Intelligence Masterclass 2026, organised by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) in Canberra. The discussions highlight the growing importance of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, critical technologies and secure supply chains within the broader Australia–India strategic partnership.
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he Consulate General of India, Brisbane, will organise a special programme to mark Ayurveda Day 2026 on September 23, focusing on the theme “Ayurveda for a Healthier Tomorrow.” The Consulate has invited members of the community to join the celebration and explore the traditional wisdom of Ayurveda and its relevance to healthier living and holistic
wellbeing. The programme will take place from 5 pm to 7 pm at the Consulate General of India, Level 12, 301 Coronation Drive, Milton, Queensland 4064. Participants are required to register by September 18, 2026, using the registration facility provided by the Consulate through a QR code. The event will provide an opportunity for the community to learn more about Ayurveda and its approach to promoting health and wellbeing.
Australia–India partnership discussed in Canberra Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann MP, who is Chair of the Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade, to discuss the further strengthening of the Australia– India partnership.
Canberra,September 15(Australia India News Newsdesk)
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ndia’s High Commissioner to Australia Nagesh Singh met
According to a post by India in Australia, the High Commission of India in Canberra, Singh and Neumann exchanged views on expanding the multifaceted bilateral relationship between the two countries. The meeting brought together India’s senior diplomatic representative in Australia and a senior Australian parliamentarian involved in the country’s foreign affairs, defence and trade deliberations. The engagement comes as Australia and India continue to broaden cooperation across areas including trade, investment, technology and security, with parliamentary and diplomatic exchanges contributing to the wider bilateral relationship.
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COMMUNITY CHRONICLE
Hindi play ‘Dashorang’ Australia–India expand maritime defence cooperation to be staged in Canberra Canberra, September 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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ustraliaandIndia are seeking to further strengthen cooperation in the maritime security and defence sectors, with senior military leaders discussing ways to deepen interoperability and advance bilateral defence initiatives. India’s Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan met Admiral Mark Hammond, Chief of the Defence Force of Australia, in Canberra during Swaminathan’s ongoing visit to Australia, according to the High Commission of India in Canberra. The High Commission said the talks covered the increasing strategic depth of the Australia– India defence partnership and progress in implementing the Maritime Security Cooperation Roadmap. The two military leaders
also examined opportunities to expand cooperation and interoperability across the maritime domain, reflecting the growing operational engagement between the two countries. The High Commission said the meeting highlighted a shared commitment to translating strategic convergence between
AustraliaandIndia into practical outcomes that contribute to a secure, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific. The engagement forms part of broader efforts by the two countries to strengthen maritime cooperation and coordinate more closely on regional security, particularly in the Indo-Pacific.
High Commissioner Singh and Hastie discuss Australia–India partnership Canberra, September 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he High Commission of India in Canberra, in collaboration with Vividha Arts, will present the Hindi play ‘Dashorang’ in the Australian capital on September 19. According to the High Commission’s announcement, the play will be staged at Canberra College, 2 Launceston Street, Phillip, ACT. The doors will open at 2.30 pm, with the performance scheduled from 3 pm to 5 pm. The presentation is being
organised as part of efforts to promote the Hindi language and Hindi theatre in Australia. The announcement carries the hashtags #HindiDiwas2026, #HindiLanguage and #HindiTheatre, linking the event with Hindi language and cultural activities. The Canberra staging is expected to bring Hindi theatre to local audiences while providing an opportunity to celebrate and promote the language and Indian cultural expression in the Australian capital.
Australia–India education links discussed
Canberra, September 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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ndia’s High Commissioner to Australia Nagesh Singh met Professor Bill Shorten at the University of Canberra’s Bruce Campus to discuss opportunities to strengthen cooperation between India and Australia in education, research and institutional partnerships. According to the High Commission of India in Canberra, the meeting focused on identifying avenues for expanding collaboration in the
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education and research sectors and developing stronger links between institutions in the two countries. The discussions also covered the potential for greater institutional cooperation, reflecting the broader Australia–India engagement in higher education and research. The meeting at the University of Canberra formed part of High Commissioner Nagesh Singh’s engagements with Australian institutions as the two countries continue to explore opportunities to expand educational and research ties. The engagement highlighted the role of universities and academic institutions in supporting the wider Australia–India relationship through knowledge exchange, research collaboration and institutional partnerships.
Canberra, September 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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ndia’s High Commissioner to Australia Nagesh Singh met Andrew Hastie MP, Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the House of Representatives and Shadow Minister for Industry and Sovereign Capability, to discuss strengthening the Australia–India partnership. According to the High Commission of India in Canberra, the meeting on September 7 provided an opportunity to exchange views on further developing bilateral relations and identifying areas for greater cooperation. The meeting was part of continuing diplomatic engagement between India and Australia as both countries work to expand their strategic and economic partnership. Hastie is the Federal Member for
Canning and serves as Shadow Minister for Industry and Sovereign Capability. His current parliamentary responsibilities also include serving as Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the House of Representatives, according to the Australian
Government Directory and the Liberal Party of Australia. The engagement followed recent high-level contacts between the two countries and came amid efforts to translate the expanding Australia–India relationship into greater practical cooperation.
Australia India environmental initiative at Cottesloe Beach
Perth, September 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Consulate General of India in Perth partnered with the Cottesloe Coastcare Association
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for an environmental activity at Cottesloe Beach as part of the Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign. The initiative involved cleaning the beachfront by collecting rubbish, removing weeds and
planting new native saplings, according to the Consulate General of India in Perth. The tree-planting component was undertaken under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative, reflecting a commitment to environmental sustainability and highlighting the nurturing spirit of Mother Nature. The activity brought together cleanliness and environmental conservation efforts, with a focus on maintaining the coastal environment and encouraging community participation in sustainability initiatives. The Consulate said the programme was part of its activities under the Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign.
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COMMUNITY CHRONICLE
FICQ invites Queensland community UWA Global Engagement Gala highlights India expansion to business networking event
Brisbane, September 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) is set to host FICQ Business Networking 2026,
bringing together business owners, professionals and community leaders for an evening focused on networking, collaboration and meaningful connections across Queensland’s diverse multicultural community.
The event will be held on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at 6 pm at the Dandiri Room, Level 1, Ipswich Civic Centre, 1 Nicholas Street, Ipswich, Queensland 4305. FICQ said the gathering will provide an opportunity for participants to connect, collaborate, grow and build relationships within the multicultural and business communities. The organisation has also expressed special thanks to Teresa Harding, Mayor of Ipswich, for officially launching the FICQ Business Networking 2026 poster and for her continued support and encouragement of multicultural and business communities.
Perth Consulate stands with Nepal flood victims General of India in Perth joined members of the Nepalese Association of Western Australia at a candlelight vigil held in solidarity with people in Nepal affected by devastating floods.
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he Consul General, Kajari Biswas, and Consul Naresh Kumar from the Consulate
The vigil was an expression of support for those impacted by the floods and a tribute to those who lost their lives. The Indian representatives offered heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and expressed prayers and hope for the safe recovery of those who are still missing.
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he Consul General, Kajari Biswas, attended the UWA Global Engagement Gala at The University of Western Australia (UWA), marking the official launch of Global Engagement Month. The gala brought together the UWA community to celebrate the
Perth Consulate invites community to Ayurveda summit
Perth, September 15(Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Consulate General of India, Perth, is inviting the community to participate in the Ayurveda Awareness Three-Day Online Summit, being organised to celebrate Ayurveda Day 2026. Held under the theme “Take a Pause. Reconnect. Rethink wellbeing,” the online summit is
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university’s global partnerships, connections and achievements. A major highlight of the celebration was the upcoming inauguration of UWA’s campuses in Mumbai and Chennai, involving an investment of A$50 million. The event reflected UWA’s focus on strengthening its global engagement and partnerships.
being organised in collaboration with the Consulate General of India, Perth. It aims to encourage participants to explore health and wellbeing through the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda, yoga and mindful living. The programme will feature sessions focusing on different aspects of holistic wellbeing and approaches to health and wellness.
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COMMUNITY CHRONICLE
Hindi Diwas celebrated with enthusiasm in Perth Perth, September 15(Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Prime Council House in Perth, India, organised Hindi Diwas 2026 in collaboration with the Hindi Samaj of Western Australia (HSWA), with enthusiasm and excitement. The event witnessed a large turnout, with children and adults participating enthusiastically. The celebration highlighted the
deep interest in and love for the Hindi language and Indian culture within the community. The occasion also focused on promoting and using Hindi as much as possible and strengthening the connection of the new generation with the language. The organisers stressed the importance of working together to promote Hindi and preserve its rich linguistic and cultural heritage for future generations.
Consul General undertakes Bunbury visit Perth, September 15(Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Consul General of India in Perth, Kajari Biswas, undertook an official visit to Bunbury from August 28 to 30, 2026, engaging with members of the Indian community, local leaders and key stakeholders. As part of the visit, SWIG Bunbury organised a Sufi Sangeet and Qawwali evening celebrating the rich diversity of Indian culture. Bunbury Deputy Mayor Cheryl Kozisek also attended the celebrations. The Consular team held an Open House and Q&A session for the first time in Bunbury, providing members of the Indian community an opportunity to interact directly with the team
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and raise consular matters. Discussions covered issues relating to Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI), passports and Police Clearance Certificates (PCC), among other matters. The Consul General also met Bunbury Mayor Jayson Miguel, former Multicultural Minister and Mayor John Castrilli, David Myles, Vice President of SIMCOA, and representatives of the Indian community. The Consulate General of India expressed appreciation for the warm hospitality extended by Cr Dr Ramesh Parthasarathy, president of SWIG Bunbury, and acknowledged his leadership and hard work. It also thanked the City of Bunbury, community organisations and members who contributed to the successful visit.
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COMMUNITY CHRONICLE
Nagesh Singh visits Adelaide Oval Australia–India trade links Canberra, September 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
explored in Adelaide
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ndia’s High Commissioner to Australia Nagesh Singh visited Adelaide Oval during his visit to Adelaide, taking the opportunity to recall the venue’s historic association with Indian cricket. According to the High Commission of India in Canberra, Singh toured the historic cricket ground and reflected on memorable moments involving India at Adelaide Oval. The High Commission said Singh also appreciated Adelaide Oval’s efforts to preserve its heritage over the years. The visit highlighted the enduring connection between Indian cricket and one of Australia’s most significant sporting venues, which has hosted important cricket contests involving India.
India–South Australia economic ties discussed Canberra, September 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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ndia and South Australia have explored opportunities to expand economic cooperation during a meeting between Indian High Commissioner Nagesh Singh and South Australian Minister for State Development Chris Picton MP. According to the High Commission of India in Canberra, the two sides discussed ways to build on existing economic ties through greater trade and investment cooperation. The discussions covered a range of areas, including critical minerals, defence, space, education, technology and innovation, reflecting the breadth of potential cooperation between India and South Australia. Singh also participated in a Trade and Investment Roundtable facilitated by the South Australian Department of State
Canberra, September 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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ndia’s High Commissioner to Australia Nagesh Singh took part in a trade and investment Roundtable in Adelaide, where participants examined opportunities to expand commercial ties between India and South Australia. According to the High Commission of India in Canberra, the roundtable was facilitated by the Department of State Development, South Australia, and focused on prospects for increasing trade, investment and business engagement between India and South Australia.
Discussions covered opportunities to develop stronger India–South Australia commercial partnerships and expand business cooperation across sectors, the High Commission said. The meeting brought together stakeholders interested in strengthening economic links and identifying areas where businesses from India and South Australia can pursue greater cooperation and investment. The engagement forms part of continuing efforts to deepen Australia–India economic relations through stronger connections between Indian businesses and Australian states and territories.
India–Australia academic links explored at ANU
Development. The roundtable examined opportunities to further develop India–South Australia trade, investment and business partnerships. The engagements formed part
of the High Commissioner’s meetings in Adelaide aimed at strengthening commercial and institutional links between India and South Australia.
India–Australia IT sector cooperation explored
Sydney, September 1(Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Consulate General of India in Sydney, in partnership with the Australia India Business Council (AIBC) NSW Chapter, organised a business interaction for a visiting delegation of Indian information technology and ITenabled services companies on August 31.
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The delegation, led by NASSCOM, comprised Indian IT and ITES companies and engaged with Australian businesses from a range of sectors, including BFSI, healthcare, cybersecurity, education, retail and government. The session included a welcome address by Acting Consul General of India in Sydney Nirav Satariya, an industry presentation by Nidhi Gupta, Director–Global Trade
Development, NASSCOM, and an address by Ravi Mandalika, president, AIBC NSW. The visiting companies were introduced to participants before holding business-to-business interactions and networking with Sydney-based IT and professional services companies. According to the Consulate General of India, the delegation had held meetings with major IT and professional services companies in Sydney and was travelling to Melbourne to participate in Intersekt 2026. The engagement provided a platform for Indian technology companies and Australian businesses to explore commercial opportunities and strengthen links across the IT and professional services sectors.
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Canberra, September 7(Australia India News Newsdesk)
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igh Commissioner of India Nagesh Singh met Professor Rebekah Brown FASSA, Interim Vice-Chancellor and president of the Australian National University (ANU), and Professor Kiaran Kirk AM of the ANU College of Science and Medicine, to explore opportunities for expanding academic cooperation between AustraliaandIndia. According to the High Commission of India in Canberra, the discussions focused on strengthening collaboration in higher education and research,
including opportunities in STEM disciplines and the humanities. The meeting also examined ways to develop stronger institutional connections, along with greater faculty and student linkages between Indian and Australian universities. Professor Rebekah Brown is an academic and research leader in sustainability and environmental studies, while Professor Kiaran Kirk is associated with the ANU College of Science and Medicine. The engagement highlighted opportunities to further develop India–Australia cooperation in higher education, research and academic exchanges.
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COMMUNITY CHRONICLE
India–South Australia engagement spans education, space and defence Canberra, September 7(Australia India News Newsdesk)
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ndia and South Australia are seeking to deepen cooperation across education, critical minerals, space, defence, technology, business and community relations following a series of meetings and engagements by High Commissioner of India Nagesh Singh during his visit to Adelaide. Singh met the team at Study Adelaide and interacted with Indian international students. He was briefed on initiatives to assist international students after their arrival, the contribution of Indian students to South Australia’s education ecosystem and the India–Australia education partnership. Critical minerals cooperation was discussed during Singh’s meeting with Lawrence Ben MP, Assistant Minister for Copper, Steel, Critical Metals and Minerals. According to the High Commission of India, the discussions focused on developing resilient supply chains and strengthening India– South Australia cooperation in critical minerals, copper and steel. Ben also acknowledged the contribution of the Indian diaspora to people-to-people links and the India–South Australia partnership. Singh met Nadia Clancy MP, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, for discussions covering Indian culture, the importance of people-to-people connections and the role of the Indian community as an important cultural bridge between India and South Australia. The High Commissioner toured Lot Fourteen, South Australia’s flagship innovation precinct in Adelaide. He noted
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the potential of its co-location model, which brings together space, artificial intelligence, advanced technologies, research and industry. Singh also visited the Australian Institute for Machine Learning (AIML) at Lot Fourteen and was briefed on South Australia’s capabilities in artificial intelligence and machine learning. Singh also met Frances Adamson AC, Governor of South Australia, with discussions reflecting on the strong and growing India– Australia relationship, its future aspirations and opportunities to expand cooperation across sectors. The significance of India–South Australia relations in education, space, critical minerals and defence was also discussed. At Adelaide University, Singh met Professor Nicola Phillips, Vice Chancellor, to discuss ongoing education cooperation and ways to expand India–South Australia links in higher education, student and teacher exchanges, research and innovation. The High Commissioner separately interacted with academics at Adelaide University on opportunities to develop deeper India–Australia knowledge and entrepreneurial partnerships, including stronger connections among universities, researchers and innovation ecosystems. Space cooperation was another focus of the visit. At Lot Fourteen, Singh met Dr Enrico Palermo, Head of the Australian Space Agency, and exchanged views on the growing India–Australia space partnership, the space ecosystems of both countries and opportunities for further bilateral cooperation. Singh met Peter Malinauskas MP, Premier of South Australia, to discuss opportunities to strengthen the longstanding
and multifaceted India–South Australia partnership and deepen engagement between India and the state. Defence ties were discussed during Singh’s meeting with Lieutenant General Susan Coyle AM CSC DSM, Chief of the Australian Army. Singh congratulated Coyle on assuming leadership of the Australian Army. Their discussions covered the India–Australia defence partnership, Armyto-Army cooperation, training and exchanges, and further collaboration towards a secure and stable Indo-Pacific. Community engagement also featured prominently, with Singh addressing the Indian community in Adelaide at a meet-and-greet organised by the Indian Australian Association of South Australia (IAASA). He acknowledged the community’s contribution to the South Australian economy and its role in strengthening peopleto-people ties between India and Australia, and spent the evening interacting with participants. Singh also met Andrew Kay, CEO of the South Australian Business Chamber, and held an engagement with Chamber members. He encouraged South Australian businesses to explore deeper business partnerships with different states of India. The High Commissioner further interacted with Adelaidebased companies working across technology, space, education, agriculture, health and energy. According to the High Commission, discussions examined opportunities and challenges facing South Australian businesses, possible pathways for greater commercial cooperation, and ways to further strengthen India–South Australia and India– Australia relations.
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COMMUNITY CHRONICLE
Anna Minns Launches IVI National Campaign to Screen 20,000 Schoolchildren New Delhi, 1 September 2026:
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ndia Vision Institute (IVI) today launched a national school eye health campaign that will provide vision screening and access to corrective spectacles for 20,000 children in government and tribal schools in four major cities across India. Mrs Anna Minns, wife of the Premier of New South Wales, the Hon. Chris Minns MP, launched the campaign at Nava Hind Girls Senior Secondary School in New Delhi, where she interacted with students, observed a vision screening session and presented
spectacles to schoolgirls identified with uncorrected refractive errors. The campaign adds to IVI’s continuing commitment to improving access to eye care among underserved communities and supports the goals of the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) as well as align with the World Health Organization’s SPECS 2030 initiative, which supports the global target of increasing effective refractive error coverage by 40 percentage points by 2030. Mrs Minns said, “Every child should have the opportunity to
learn and grow with clear vision. I am delighted to launch this initiative and meet some of the children it will benefit.” IVI CEO Vinod Daniel said, “A child with an uncorrected vision problem can struggle to read the board, follow lessons and participate confidently in the classroom, often without anyone recognising the reason. Timely screening and a pair of corrective spectacles can change all that. Through this campaign, we will reach 20,000 children who may otherwise have limited access to eye care and ensure that poor vision does not become a barrier
Restoring trust: Taiwan’s rightful place in the free world
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he rules-based international order is under growing strain as authoritarian states seek to weaken its safeguards and reshape international rule to serve their own interests. Even the fundamental principles of peaceful settlement of disputes and prohibition against the threat or use of force, which are enshrined in the United Nations Charter, have been openly challenged and flagrantly flaunted. Today, the international community stands at a critical juncture. Either we act together to uphold justice, defend the rule of law, and maintain peace and security, or we watch the world order steadily crumble away, taking freedom, selfdetermination, and democracy with it. There are few places where this choice is more starkly presented than in the first island chain of the Indo-Pacific. The region’s security has come under growing pressure from China, which continues to deploy grayzone tactics—including military intimidation, cyber intrusions, and economic coercion—in an attempt to unilaterally reshape the existing rules and norms. Standing on the front line of defense of freedom and democracy, Taiwan will continue to firmly uphold the status quo. However, preserving peace and stability in the region is not just in Taiwan’s interests. It is a shared concern of the international community. The Taiwan Strait is one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes and a major artery for international supply chains. Its significance to global security and prosperity is reflected in statements from the G7 and other summits and ministerial-
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level meetings between Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and other countries. They make up a growing chorus of voices worldwide that underline the importance of cross-strait peace and stability. The integrity of the rulesbased order is also being undermined by China’s deliberate misrepresentation of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758. Adopted in 1971, the resolution covers the question of China’s representation at the UN. The text does not mention Taiwan, determine its political status, or address its participation in the UN system. Yet China has conspired to conflate UNGA 2758 with the so-called “one China principle” and use the resolution to block Taiwan’s participation in the UN and other international organizations. If left unchecked, this distortion could set a dangerous legal precedent and serve as a pretext for future military action across the Taiwan Strait. Despite its exclusion from the UN, Taiwan is determined to act as a force for good. The strengths that Taiwan possesses in advanced manufacturing, disaster preparedness, and public health could contribute to the international community in many ways. Taiwan has pursued an integrated and value-added foreign policy based on strengthening democratic alliances, promoting collective security, and building economic resilience. Working with like-minded partners, Taiwan advances democracy, human rights, and freedom worldwide. As a leader in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and technology, Taiwan is committed to building supply chains that are secure,
resilient, and free from dependence on authoritarian regimes. Through its Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project, Taiwan fosters coprosperity with its partners. Taiwan contributes its expertise and resources to technology-driven projects in cooperation with its diplomatic allies to address development challenges and enhance local capacities. Concrete examples include collaboration on an integrated healthcare information system with Paraguay, the construction of a strategic oil reserve facility in Eswatini, and collaboration with Palau National Hospital on smart healthcare. These initiatives have strengthened data management and efficiency, bolstered energy security, fostered industrial growth, and advanced sustainable development. Khalilur Rahman, Presidentelect of the upcoming 81st UN General Assembly, has made restoring trust and managing institutional transformation the overarching themes of his presidency. Taiwan shares these objectives and stands ready to help realize them. Restoring confidence in the UN must begin with treating every member of the international community in a fair and just way. Transformation cannot be complete while a constructive and trustworthy member remains unjustly excluded. We are calling on the international community to uphold the principles of inclusiveness, leaving no one behind, settling disputes peacefully, and neither threatening nor using force. These imperatives underpin the rules-based international order and should be applied consistently and without exception. The free world needs Taiwan— and a stronger, more credible United Nations needs Taiwan’s meaningful participation. Working hand in hand with Taiwan will strengthen collective security, enhance economic and technological resilience, and build our shared capacity to withstand
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to their education or future.” “The campaign, covering Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Kolkata, will give practical expression to IVI’s World Sight Day commitment and contribute to the wider effort to increase access to refractive error services and spectacles by 2030,” added Mr
Daniel. Since its inception in 2012, IVI has reached over two million underprivileged people across India, including children in government schools, through its vision screening, spectacle distribution and eye health programs.
India–Australia food and agritrade to get Sydney boost
Sydney, September 15(Australia India News Newsdesk)
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usiness opportunities between India and Australia’s food and agriculture sectors will be explored during a visit to Sydney by a 32-member Indian business delegation in October. According to the Consulate General of India in Sydney, the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) is leading the delegation of Indian companies, which will be in Sydney from October 5 to 7, 2026. A buyer-seller meet (BSM) will be held at Park Royal Darling Harbour, Sydney, on October 6, bringing the Indian companies together with Australian authoritarian pressure. Ensuring Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the United Nations is therefore essential to building a more inclusive, secure, resilient, and
businesses for potential commercial engagements. The visiting companies will also be available to meet and visit Australian companies in Sydney on October 5 and 7, providing additional opportunities for direct business interactions. The initiative is intended to connect Indian food and agrisector exporters with Australian businesses and explore potential trade and commercial partnerships. The Consulate General of India has invited interested Australian companies to register for the buyer-seller meet through the registration facility provided in its event announcement.
rules-based international order. By Dr. Lin Chia-lung, Minister of Foreign Affairs, ROC (Taiwan)
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COMMUNITY CHRONICLE
Riverfire 2026 opens Brisbane Festival with spectacular riverfront display
Brisbane, September 15(Australia India News Newsdesk)
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iverfire by Australian Retirement Trust opened the 2026 Brisbane Festival on September 5, bringing Australian Defence Force flyovers, live entertainment and a large-scale fireworks display to Brisbane's riverfront. The annual celebration began with ADF aircraft flying over the city between 4.45pm and 5.30pm, followed by the main fireworks display at 7pm, according to the Brisbane Festival. The festival listed Riverfire as the opening event of its 2026 programme. The aerial programme included a Royal Australian Air Force C-17A Globemaster III and an F/A-18F Super Hornet. Brisbane Festival said the Globemaster was scheduled to make its appearance at about 4.52pm, with the Super Hornet following at approximately 5.20pm. The programme also included an Australian Army display and performances by the Royal Australian Navy Band. The scale of the evening's fireworks was reflected in the number of firing points used across Brisbane. According to information released about the production, more than 31,000 individual pyrotechnic effects and about 4,300 aerial shells were used. Foti Fireworks, which has managed Riverfire for 21 years, produced the display. The fireworks were launched from six barges on the Brisbane River, the Story Bridge, the Goodwill Bridge and five CBD rooftops, including The Star Brisbane. A new sixth barge was positioned between Victoria
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Bridge and Neville Bonner Bridge, adding another launch point to the central river section. The Brisbane Festival identified a range of locations for spectators, including South Bank Parklands, Kangaroo Point Cliffs, Wilson Outlook Reserve and Victoria Bridge, along with Queen's Wharf Brisbane, the City Botanic Gardens, Captain Burke Park, Howard Smith Wharves and other elevated locations around the city. South Bank was subject to additional crowd-management arrangements. According to Visit South Bank, the precinct hosted Riverfire activities from 5pm and was expected to attract large numbers of visitors before the fireworks. Entry was controlled and security measures were introduced for the event. The event information for South Bank stated that the precinct was an alcohol-free area, while security checks were conducted at entry points. Certain items, including tents, glass and other prohibited materials, were not permitted. Visitors were advised to check the entry requirements before arriving. Safety restrictions also extended to the use of drones. The Brisbane Festival said drone operations were prohibited along the Brisbane River corridor from St Lucia to New Farm during Riverfire. The restriction also applied during scheduled ADF rehearsal flights on September 3 and 4. The festival said the measures were designed to protect aircraft operating at low levels as well as people attending the event. Transport arrangements were another major part of the city's
preparations. According to The Courier-Mail, authorities expected up to 450,000 people to be in Brisbane for Riverfire. The newspaper reported that road and bridge closures, changes to public transport and restrictions around the river were put in place to manage the expected crowds. The Brisbane Festival advised spectators to plan their journeys in advance and use public transport where possible. The festival also published information on viewing locations, transport arrangements and temporary restrictions affecting parts of the city. The Brisbane River itself was subject to temporary restrictions during the fireworks period. According to Brisbane Festival information, recreational river traffic was restricted between Mowbray Park in East Brisbane and the Go-Between Bridge at Milton during the evening. Riverfire has become one of Brisbane's major annual public events and has traditionally combined fireworks with ADF aerial displays. The Brisbane Festival said the 2026 event marked the beginning of a festival programme running through September, featuring music, theatre, dance, visual arts and community events. For spectators, the September 5 programme brought together the city's river, bridges and skyline as the backdrop for the opening of the festival. The fireworks production extended across multiple launch platforms, while the afternoon ADF flyovers provided an earlier focus for crowds gathered around Brisbane. The event also demonstrated the extensive planning required for a large public celebration, with aviation restrictions, security checks, river controls, transport changes and designated viewing areas introduced alongside the entertainment programme. With Riverfire serving as the opening event, Brisbane Festival 2026 began with one of the city's largest annual gatherings, combining military aviation displays and a multi-location fireworks production over the Brisbane River.
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FASHION
Soha Ali Khan reveals why she was When Aishwarya Rai spoke about choosing to live with her not able to complete her 10k steps parents as successful woman
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ctress Soha Ali Khan, who is known to follow a strict fitness routine with regular exercise, revealed why she was not able to complete her 10k steps through her latest post on social
media. On Thursday, Soha uploaded a clip where she was seen stepping out in order to complete her target for the day. While
she leaves the house with full enthusiasm, she encounters a number of unexpected hurdles on the road, such as animal poop on the sidewalk, a broken manhole cover, waiting for someone to fall or get hurt, a man sleeping on the sidewalk, a huge crane at work, along with some other work going on the roadside. At the end, Soha finally gives up on the idea and decides to try the next day again. "I really try to get in my 10k steps every day but after 2,467 obstacles, I give up (sic)," read the caption on the post. This is not the first time Soha has decided to use social media to raise such a civic issue. Back in February, Soha had shed light on the horrible conditions of the Mumbai roads. She revealed that while she was on a relaxing evening walk around her neighbourhood, she encountered a broken sidewalk.
Sameera Reddy makes some ‘core memories’ with her family during her Goa getaway
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ctress Sameera Reddy made some precious core memories with her family as she enjoyed a fun getaway in Goa during the weekend. She shared a glimpse of her family holiday on her IG on Sunday. The clip uploaded by Sameera had her soaking in the natural beauty of the Siolim backwaters with her kids during a boat ride. During their time in the water, they ended up witnessing a crocodile, who was relaxing by the shore. The clip also had the little munchkins making the most of their time in the water, after which they all ended up seeing a beautiful sunset. Sameera admitted that she had to force herself to put down her todo list and live in the moment. The 'De Dana Dan' actress shared on her official handle, "Crocodiles & Rainbows...I have remind myself to be in the present .
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ctress Aishwarya Rai once spoke about her choice of living with her parents despite being an extremely successful woman, a concept which is alien to American culture. An old clip from one of the actress’ old international interactions has resurfaced on the Internet, and it shows her defending her choice while also being curious about the American cultural practice of kids moving out of their parents’ house at a young age. She said, “I wouldn't understand why, but that's probably because that's the way of life there. Would that generally be so? Would that be like everybody has to or does move out? Is there like a social rule?”. When she was told that a 30-yearold woman in America who has her own career and is making good money will not be living at home, she said, “By virtue of my
job, I'm traveling out. You get to spend very little time with your family. We hardly get to meet each other, except in the one odd day we really get to spend time, have dinner together. And that's rare, and we cherish it”. When she was asked, “Do you consider yourself an independent woman?”, she said, “Yes, yes. And I don't see any reason why moving away from your family is a statement of independence”. Aishwarya Rai is one of India’s most celebrated actresses and global beauty icons. She rose to international prominence after winning the Miss World title in 1994. She made her acting debut with the Tamil film Iruvar and went on to establish herself. Her performances earned critical acclaim, while her appearances at the Cannes Film Festival strengthened her international profile.
Anushka Ranjan opens up about her IVF journey: Initially, we were trying naturally
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ctress Anushka Ranjan has spoken about the physical and emotional challenges of IVF. Her husband Aditya Seal also revealed that the couple had even considered adoption. On Neha Dhupia and Angad Bedi’s show Double Date, Anushka spoke about her IVF journey and the challenges she faced while trying to conceive. On Neha Dhupia and Angad Bedi’s show Double Date, in an episode recorded before she welcomed twins, she recalled the initial phase of their journey and revealed that she and her husband, Aditya Seal, had
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initially been trying to conceive naturally. The duo welcomed their twin baby girls, whom they have lovingly named Vira and, on August 23. They were subsequently advised to consider IUI, a less intensive procedure than IVF, but even that involved medication and injections. Anushka said: “Initially we were trying naturally; we reached a point where we thought we were ready. Doctors advised us to try to conceive for six months or one year. Then there is a process which is called IUI, which is the milder version of IVF.”
“It also requires a lot of medication, but injections kam lene padte the, 3 or 4 injections, but dawaiyan bahut leni padti thi. So wo dawaiyan were also making me feel lost.” She went on to explain why they eventually opted for IVF, adding that the chances of conception were higher compared to IUI. But beyond the medical procedures, Anushka said that the experience also took an emotional toll on her. “You start feeling that meri body mein kuch kami hai, kuch toh galat hai. As a girl, I should not have drank or eaten meat,” she said.
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INDIA NEWS
British Band ‘Gorillaz’ to perform in Guwahati during first India tour: Himanta Sarma in Guwahati on January 31, 2027, as part of the group’s first-ever tour of India.
Guwahati, Sep 10 (IANS)
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ssam Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, on Thursday announced that legendary British virtual band Gorillaz will perform
Taking to social media, Sarma said Guwahati has been selected as one of the host cities for the landmark India tour and expressed excitement over welcoming the band as well as music fans from across the country. “Delighted to announce that the legendary Gorillaz will perform in Guwahati on January 31, 2027, as
part of their first ever India tour,” Sarma said. He added that Guwahati was “proud to be among the host cities” for the tour and said the city was looking forward to hosting both the band and fans travelling to Assam for the performance. The announcement marks a major development for Assam’s entertainment and cultural landscape, with an internationally recognised act set to perform in the state.
Iranian President’s daughter visits BRICS Bazaar, explores vibrant cultural display countries.
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ahra Pezeshkian, daughter of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, and her husband Hassan Majidi visited the BRICS Bazaar in New Delhi on Saturday, exploring the vibrant display of art, crafts and cultural heritage from BRICS member and partner
The visit provided a cultural connection between India and Iran at the BRICS Bazaar, where Zahra Pezeshkian and Hassan Majidi were accompanied by Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annapurna Devi. During their visit, they explored various pavilions representing BRICS member and partner countries, including the Indian pavilion, and witnessed a diverse showcase of traditional art, crafts and cultural heritage from across the participating nations. The BRICS Bazaar celebrates the diverse cultures and creative spirit of the BRICS community by bringing together artisans, designers and creative enterprises from member and
partner countries. The Bazaar offers visitors an opportunity to explore authentic crafts, handlooms, textiles, artworks and several other products reflecting the rich cultural traditions of the participating countries. Two stalls representing Iran have also been set up at the BRICS Bazaar, showcasing the country's traditional embroidery and handicraft heritage. One of the Iranian stalls, featuring Balochi embroidery, has been put up by Nadia Karimi. Balochi embroidery, locally known as "doch", meaning sewing or needlework, is an ancient and intricate hand-stitching craft practised by women across the Balochistan region spanning Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan.
BRICS can build durable cultural bridges that complement economic and political partnerships
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ew Delhi: India assumed the BRICS Chairship for the fourth time in 2026. BRICS Agenda is structured around three core pillars: political and security; economy and finance; and culture and People-to-People (P2P) exchanges. In the present conflict-ridden world, culture and P2P exchanges have the potential to foster mutual understanding and strengthen trust among people and countries. People-to-people exchanges have always remained an essential component of BRICS. Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned during last year's BRICS Summit that India will advance this forum with a peoplecentric approach and in the spirit of ‘Humanity First’. Indian chairship's theme, 'Building for Resilience, Innovation,
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Cooperation and Sustainability', reflects this vision. While the leaders’ declaration is still some time away, the focus on culture in the BRICS is encouraging. BRICS countries have rich historical connections. Shared historical experiences can provide a basis for greater cohesion. India, China and Russia, for example, were connected through the ancient Silk Routes, which carried not only goods but also religions, philosophies, knowledge and artistic traditions. Many BRICS countries have experienced colonialism, struggles for independence, economic inequality and the challenges of modernisation. Although their histories are not identical, these experiences have produced important similarities in their aspirations for sovereignty, development and a more representative international order. These historical links across BRICS demonstrate that interaction among these societies is not a new phenomenon. Further, ancient traditions across BRICS countries had family-centered value systems, where there was equality
among all human beings. While Government-to-government relations are often influenced by changing geopolitical and economic circumstances, building P2P relations has the potential to create durable bonds. The rich cultural diversity of BRICS countries offers pathways for resilient societies as indigenous knowledge and traditions in several BRICS countries contain valuable lessons about biodiversity, agriculture, community organisation and sustainable living. Sharing such knowledge and practices can support solutions to contemporary challenges such as climate change, food security and environmental degradation. This year’s BRICS Civil Forum 2026 brought together nearly 80 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) from across BRICS countries, including 26 CSOs from India. In the culture working group, one of the key messages which came out was that the long-term success of BRICS cultural cooperation will ultimately depend on institutional continuity and predictable financing.
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ARTS, CULTURE
Gujarat CM to join Prez Murmu at 72nd National Film Awards on Sep 22
Gandhinagar, Sep 10 (IANS)
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ujarat is set to host the 72nd National Film Awards for the first time as the prestigious ceremony moves out of New Delhi and to Gujarat's Ekta Nagar, home to the Statue of Unity, with President Droupadi Murmu scheduled to present the awards on September 22. The development marks a departure from the long-standing tradition of holding the National Film Awards in the national capital. The awards were instituted in 1954 and have predominantly been presented in New Delhi, although the ceremony has been held outside the national capital on rare occasions, including in Chennai in 1971. President Murmu will visit Gujarat for three days from
September 21 and will preside over the national award ceremony at the Statue of Unity during her visit. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel will also be present at the ceremony, according to state government spokesperson and Minister Jitu Vaghani. Vaghani said the hosting of the National Film Awards at the Statue of Unity is a significant occasion for Gujarat, noting that "it was the first time the prestigious ceremony is being organised outside the national capital in the state's history". The ceremony is expected to bring together leading names from the Indian film industry, including actors, directors, producers, technicians and other artists. The awards recognise achievements in Indian cinema across feature films, non-feature films and writing on cinema, covering films released in 2024. The 72nd edition will honour several prominent names and films. 'Article 370' has been named Best Feature Film, while Yami Gautam has been named Best Actress for the film. Mammootty and Kartik Aaryan will share the Best Actor award for their performances in 'Bramayugam' and 'Chandu Champion', respectively.
PM Modi gifts cultural treasures to Kyrgyz leaders, strengthening India-Kyrgyzstan bonds through shared heritage
New Delhi, Sep 1 (IANS)
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rime Minister Narendra Modi presented carefully chosen Indian artefacts to the President and Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan during his recent engagement in the Central Asian nation, thereby deepening cultural and civilisational ties between India and Kyrgyzstan. The gifts, rich in historical and artistic significance, were offered to President Sadyr Japarov and Prime Minister Adylbek Kasymaliev, highlighting parallels in the two countries' epic traditions, pastoral lifestyles and folk arts. To President Sadyr Japarov, Prime Minister Modi gifted Bibek Debroy's acclaimed 10-volume
English translation of the Mahabharata. This complete and unabridged edition presents the full epic traditionally attributed to Ved Vyasa, encompassing its principal narrative of the Pandavas and Kauravas along with philosophical reflections, genealogies, dialogues and subsidiary stories. As a Holy book of India's literary, philosophical and cultural heritage, the Mahabharata explores enduring themes of dharma, duty, justice, morality, loyalty and statecraft. Its influence continues to shape Indian literature as well as performing and visual arts. The gift carries special resonance because the Mahabharata shares a cultural kinship with Kyrgyzstan's 'Epic of Manas'. Both monumental works preserve stories, values and collective memory across generations, serving as bridges between heritage and national identity and illustrating how epic storytelling transcends borders. Alongside the literary masterpiece, President Japarov also received a traditional Ladakhi Tsug-dul blanket.
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Sept 16-30, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 3
Gandhinagar: A capital shaped by planning and greenery
By Shashi Kumar
G
andhinagar was created to be different. When Gujarat became a separate state on May 1, 1960, Ahmedabad initially continued as its capital. A new capital was subsequently planned north of Ahmedabad on the banks of the Sabarmati, and Gandhinagar was established on August 2, 1965. It was named in memory of Mahatma Gandhi. Unlike Gujarat's older cities, whose streets and neighbourhoods evolved over centuries, Gandhinagar was conceived as a planned capital. Architect H.K. Mewada and his assistant Prakash M. Apte were responsible for its planning; both had worked as trainees under Le Corbusier during the Chandigarh project. The city's design was organised around a grid of numbered roads and cross streets named after letters of the Gujarati alphabet. The plan divided the city into 30 sectors, each designed around everyday community needs, including schools, shopping areas, housing and open spaces. Government buildings occupy the central part of the city, while the sectors spread around them. The result is a capital whose physical form remains closely connected to the planning principles on which it was founded. Greenery is an equally important part of that design. Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation describes the city as being characterised by broad roads, open green spaces and extensive planting, with recreational areas along the Sabarmati. The city has consequently developed a reputation for its tree cover and relatively spacious urban environment. But Gandhinagar's story does not begin with the creation of the modern capital. Some of the region's most important heritage survives just beyond its planned sectors, providing a striking connection between the new city and Gujarat's much older architectural traditions. The Adalaj Stepwell, about 18 kilometres south of Gandhinagar, is perhaps the clearest example. The Gandhinagar district administration records that the stepwell was built in 1499 by Queen Rudabai. Known locally as a vav, it descends several levels below ground and is decorated with carvings of plants, animals and other ornamental motifs. Its architecture reflects the
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interaction of Hindu and Islamic traditions in medieval Gujarat. The stepwell was also an example of practical water architecture. Its underground design provided access to water while creating a cooler environment below the surface. An opening above the central well allowed light and air into the structure, while three stairways led down into the monument. The contrast with Gandhinagar could hardly be clearer. Adalaj represents a period when water management, architecture and community life were closely connected in Gujarat. Gandhinagar, built centuries later, represents a different idea of urban organisation — one based on sectors, roads, government institutions and planned neighbourhoods. Within the modern city, the Swaminarayan Akshardham complex provides another important architectural landmark. Inaugurated in 1992, the complex combines a large pink-sandstone monument with gardens, exhibitions and other facilities. Gujarat Tourism records the principal monument as 108 feet high, 240 feet long and 131 feet wide, and notes that 6,000 tonnes of pink sandstone were used in its construction without steel. Another site connects Gandhinagar directly with India's freedom movement. Dandi Kutir, a museum devoted to Mahatma Gandhi's life and teachings, takes the form of a large salt mound, recalling the symbolism of the Dandi March. The Gandhinagar district administration describes it as a museum centred on Gandhi's life, philosophy and the historical context of his work. The city's connection with history extends much further back than the freedom movement. Indroda Dinosaur and Fossil Park occupies about 400 hectares on both banks of the Sabarmati. According to the Gandhinagar district administration, the park contains fossilised dinosaur eggs and skeletal remains, along with a zoo, botanical garden, interpretation centre and other facilities. The fossils from the region's Upper Cretaceous formations date back about 65 million years. Indroda gives Gandhinagar an unusual dimension. A city established in the second half of the 20th century contains, within its wider landscape, evidence of life that existed millions of years before the modern subcontinent took its present form.
Gandhinagar's evolution has also moved well beyond its original role as a government centre. The district administration identifies the city as an educational hub, with institutions including IIT Gandhinagar, the Gandhinagar campus of the National Institute of Design, Dhirubhai Ambani Institute of Information and Communication Technology, the National Institute of Fashion Technology and Gujarat National Law University. The development of GIFT City has added another layer to the capital's modern identity. Gujarat International Finance Tec-City represents the state's effort to establish a major financial and business district within the Gandhinagar area. Its emergence has reinforced the city's position beyond government administration, bringing finance, business and modern infrastructure into its economic landscape. Gandhinagar's position next to Ahmedabad further strengthens its importance as a destination. The two cities offer markedly different urban histories. Ahmedabad grew over centuries as a centre of commerce, crafts, architecture and culture, while Gandhinagar was deliberately designed as a modern state capital. Their proximity allows visitors to experience these contrasting forms of urban development within a relatively compact part of Gujarat. For travellers, Gandhinagar is therefore best understood through the relationship between its planned present and its older surroundings. The numbered roads and sector system tell the story of a capital deliberately designed rather than gradually accumulated. The Adalaj Stepwell connects the area to medieval Gujarat. Akshardham represents a major modern religious complex. Dandi Kutir links the city to Gandhi and the independence movement, while Indroda reaches into the geological and prehistoric past. The city itself remains the centre of Gujarat's government, but its identity has expanded through education, business, technology and finance. The same planned landscape that was created for a new state capital has accommodated new institutions and economic activities without losing the defining features of its original design. That is what makes Gandhinagar distinctive as a travel destination. It is not a city whose appeal rests primarily on a dense concentration of old monuments. Its interest lies in seeing how a modern Indian capital was deliberately planned, how greenery was incorporated into that plan, and how an older cultural landscape continues to surround it. Gandhinagar ultimately brings together several different chapters of Gujarat's story.
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TRAVEL
Jabalpur: Where the Narmada meets history
By Shashi Kumar
J
abalpur is best understood through the Narmada. The river gives the city its most dramatic landscape, links it to some of its oldest places of worship and continues beyond the urban centre towards a wider region of forests, dams and historic settlements. Around this river has grown a city shaped by Gond and Kalachuri history, later Mughal and Maratha influence, British rule and its present role as an important administrative and railway centre. The most striking expression of the Narmada comes at Bhedaghat, where the river passes through the Marble Rocks before narrowing and plunging at Dhuandhar Falls. The district administration identifies Bhedaghat as one of Jabalpur's principal natural attractions, while Madhya Pradesh Tourism describes the marble gorge and the river journey through it as among the area's defining experiences. The Marble Rocks give Bhedaghat its distinctive geological character. Tall marble cliffs rise on either side of the Narmada as it moves through the gorge. The Ministry of Tourism has described the cliffs as rising to more than 100 feet in places and identifies boating on the river and the nearby Chausath Yogini Temple among the principal attractions of the area. The river's character changes dramatically downstream. At Dhuandhar, the Narmada narrows and drops through the rocky landscape, creating a dense spray that gives the waterfall its name. The Jabalpur district administration records the fall at about 10 metres, while Incredible India describes the plunge differently; because official sources give different measurements, the height is less important than the physical setting — the Narmada emerging from the marble landscape and falling with enough force to create the characteristic mist. Bhedaghat is not only a natural attraction. Above the river stands the Chausath Yogini Temple, associated with the 10th-century Kalchuri period and dedicated to Goddess Durga and the 64 Yoginis. Its position on a hill gives
the temple a direct relationship with the river landscape below. The Ministry of Tourism and Madhya Pradesh Tourism both identify the temple as an important part of Bhedaghat's heritage. That meeting of landscape and history continues in Jabalpur itself. The district administration describes the city as historically associated with the Kalachuri and Gond dynasties, with later influences from Mughal and Maratha rule. During the early nineteenth century, the area came under British India and Jabalpur developed as a cantonment town. The Gond legacy is particularly visible at Madan Mahal Fort. Built on elevated ground, the fort is associated with the Gond rulers and remains one of the city's principal historic landmarks. Its position also reflects the defensive importance of the surrounding terrain and provides a different perspective on Jabalpur from the river landscapes of Bhedaghat. The district administration and Madhya Pradesh Tourism both list Madan Mahal among the city's major attractions. Jabalpur's history, however, is not confined to forts and temples. The city developed into an important administrative and institutional centre. It is the headquarters of Jabalpur district and division, while the Madhya Pradesh High Court, the headquarters of West Central Railway and major military establishments are located here. The city's industrial history also includes the Gun Carriage Factory. This institutional character gives modern Jabalpur a distinct identity. It is not simply a gateway to Bhedaghat. It is a city with its own administrative, judicial, railway, military and industrial importance, set within a landscape that has long made it significant in central India. The Narmada remains central even when the marble cliffs disappear. Bargi Dam, built on the river, is another major attraction in the wider Jabalpur area. The district administration lists it among the city's natural and scenic destinations. The city's attractions also extend into its cultural institutions.
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Spanish GP: Antonelli clinches eighth season win in Madrid to extend F1 title gap
‘Give me the rifle, I’ll see the degree later’: How Niraj chose shooting to chase Asiad dream
Madrid, Sep 14 (IANS) F1 title leader Kimi Antonelli further extended his gap in the drivers' standings after winning the first-ever Madring race here on Sunday. The Mercedes driver took the chequered flag first as he outclassed Red Bull's Max Verstappen and pole-sitter Lando Norris in a race that was decided by strategy. Antonelli, who started second on the grid, cut two corners in the opening exchanges of the 57-lap race in Madrid in his attempt to go past Norris, who held a narrow lead. However, Antonelli received a shot in the arm when he got the perfect window to stop during a Virtual Safety Car after Aston Martin’s Stroll retired his car due to brake issues. Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton was also forced to retire his car in the opening exchanges due to brake issues. While Antonelli, teammate George Russell, and Max
Verstappen pitted during the VSC, Norris could not enter the pits during the window. To make matters worse, the Briton had a lengthy pit stop for the change of tyres and rejoined the grid at P5, with Charles Leclerc leading after delaying his pit stop from Antonelli, Verstappen and Russell. Leclerc led for the majority of the race but did not make a mandatory tyre-switch stop, waiting for a red flag or a Safety car to box, which ultimately did not happen, and he went to the pits at the end of lap 48. Antonelli then made a gap to Verstappen and Norris, who tried to pass the Dutchman and had a chance in the final few laps when Verstappen cut Turn 5. He drew alongside Verstappen but could not make a move, settling for third behind Antonelli and Verstappen. Leclerc settled for fourth, while Russell came home fifth as Antonelli has taken the drivers' gap to 81 points now. Behind Russell, Liam Lawson impressed with a sixth-placed finish in his third outing with Red Bull in the injury-forced absence of Isack Hadjar. Franco Colapinto took seventh, ahead of second McLaren's Oscar Piastri, while Racing Bulls' Arvid Lindblad was ninth ahead of Audi's Nico Hulkenberg to wrap up the top 10 and the point-scorers.
New Delhi, Sep 14 (IANS) When Niraj Kumar finished Class 12, his parents were preparing for the next conventional step in his education — college. Niraj, however, had a different plan. He wanted the money his family had saved for his college education to be spent on a rifle, convinced that shooting could become his career. “I told them, buy me the rifle. I will see the college degree later. First, I have to shoot,” Niraj recalled. The rifle, costing around ₹3-3.5 lakh, was a sizeable investment for a family with no sporting background. But for Niraj, it was
Saltillo (Mexico), Sep 14 (IANS) Sixteen years after Jayanta Talukdar put India on the podium, Dhiraj Bommadevara finally gave the country another landmark moment in the men’s recurve division, holding his nerve in a shoot-off to become the first Indian male archer to win the Archery World Cup Final. The 25-year-old Army archer, ranked world No. 10, prevailed over Japan’s Nakanishi Junya 6-5 in a final that went down to the wire in Saltillo. With the contest locked at 5-5 after five sets, Dhiraj produced a 10 in the shoot-off before Nakanishi managed a nine to seal the gold. It was a breakthrough that had eluded Dhiraj in his two previous World Cup Final appearances. He had returned from the 2023 and 2024 editions without a medal, but this time navigated the knockout rounds with authority before finding himself in a tense title battle against world No. 20 Nakanishi.
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an Olympic medal becoming his long-term target. Getting his parents to share that belief, however, was another matter. With no sportsperson in the family, his parents were understandably wary of the uncertainty surrounding a sporting career. Shooting also required expensive equipment, making the decision even more difficult. Niraj knew that he first had to demonstrate that his ambition was more than youthful enthusiasm. NCC provided him with a rifle until his first national competition, but he would need his own equipment thereafter. At one point, Niraj started teaching younger NCC cadets, using the final 15-20 minutes of their training sessions to practise himself. He also competed with rented rifles, but soon discovered the limitations of trying to progress without his own equipment.
Miller, de Kock named in full-strength South Africa squad for Australia ODIs
Dhiraj Bommadevara becomes first Indian man to win Archery World Cup Final
Neither archer was willing to give ground in the final. The scores read 28-28, 28-29, 29-28, 28-30, and 28-27 across the five sets, leaving the gold to be decided by the smallest of margins. Dhiraj’s victory also rewrote India’s record at the prestigious season-ending event. Talukdar had previously won bronze in Edinburgh in 2010, but no Indian man had gone all the way to gold since the tournament’s inception. India’s only other individual World Cup Final champion remains Dola Banerjee, who captured the women’s title in Dubai in 2007. Dhiraj’s triumph, therefore, marks India’s first World Cup Final gold since Banerjee’s success 19 years ago. The achievement comes in a tournament where Deepika Kumari remains India’s most decorated archer. She has collected six World Cup Final medals — five silver and one bronze — across eight appearances. For Dhiraj, however, Saltillo was about creating a record of his own. After two previous attempts ended without a medal, the Army archer finally converted his third World Cup Final appearance into the biggest title of his career, while opening a new chapter for Indian men’s recurve archery.
an investment in a dream that had taken shape after he was introduced to shooting through the National Cadet Corps (NCC). Niraj first picked up a rifle at the age of 14 in 2014. His father, a retired Army officer, had enrolled him in NCC at school with the hope that it would eventually help his son pursue a career in the armed forces. Sport was not new to Niraj. He had played kabaddi, table tennis and basketball during his school years, but shooting soon emerged as the discipline that fascinated him most. Through NCC, he was introduced to the 50m Rifle Prone event and began participating in Inter-Battalion and Inter-Group competitions. As medals followed, an early interest gradually turned into a serious ambition. By the time he reached the prenational level, Niraj had begun to see shooting as more than just a sport. He started dreaming of building a career around it, with
SPORTS
New Delhi, Sep 7 (IANS) South Africa have named their squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia that kicks off their home season. Regular captain Temba Bavuma is back, while senior batters David Miller and Quinton de Kock are also part of the ODI series, which
starts on September 24 in Durban, as it seems they are pretty much in the scheme of things for the ODI World Cup 2027. The Proteas have named a 16-member squad, which was as close to their available full strength as possible. Both Miller and de Kock are not currently centrally contracted but played in the T20 World Cup earlier this year. The squad sees the return of Gerald Coetzee, who last played an ODI in the 2023 World Cup, as he fills in the void left by Kagiso Rabada, who is out of the ODIs and racing to be fit for the Tests due to his hamstring injury. Coetzee has been hampered by injuries in the last few years, but his return gives a shot in the arm to the Proteas side. "It's great to see Gerald back in the fold and,
by all accounts, he's been bowling nice and quickly," South Africa's head coach Shukri Conrad said in a statement. The Proteas are keeping an eye on Rabada's recovery, while Conrad added that Anrich Nortje was not considered for the series. "KG is out of the ODIs, and we are constantly monitoring his rehabilitation. When we sit down to select a Test squad, we will make an informed decision. He is tracking nicely, going on reports from physios," Conrad said during a press conference on Monday. "Anrich Nortje was not considered for the ODIs. I don't think he has done enough for now, but don't be surprised if he played the Bangladesh series," he added on Nortje.
Rinku’s Meerut Mavericks beat Bhuvneshwer’s Lucknow Falcons to lift UPT20 trophy
Lucknow, Sep 7 (IANS) Rinku Singh’s Meerut Mavericks delivered a flawless performance to defeat Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s Lucknow Falcons by a massive 94 runs in the Grand Finale of the UP T20 League 2026. Appearing in their fourth consecutive final across all four seasons of the league, the Mavericks completely
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outclassed the first-time finalists to be crowned the undisputed champions of Season 4. Mavericks skipper Rinku won the toss and confidently opted to bat first. The decision paid immediate dividends as openers Swastik Chikara and Divyansh Joshi, who was specially brought into the playing XI for the final, stitched together a rapid 53-run opening stand. Following Chikara's dismissal, the innings transformed into the Divyansh Joshi show. The aggressive batter launched an astonishing counter-attack, systematically taking apart the Lucknow bowling lineup,
including veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Joshi went on to smash one of the greatest knocks in the league's history, bringing up a breathtaking 105 off just 40 deliveries, laced with 12 boundaries and seven massive sixes. His spectacular century propelled the Mavericks to a daunting total of 203/7 in their allotted 20 overs, setting a towering benchmark for the Falcons. Faced with the pressure of a massive 204-run target in their maiden final, the Falcons were never allowed to settle into the game.
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India’s semiconductor sector attracts $1.4 billion funding: Report
New Delhi, Sep 15 (IANS) India's semiconductor sector has raised a total of $1.4 billion in equity funding with nearly half of the capital secured since 2025, according to a report released on Tuesday. A report by Tracxn Technologies said the country's semiconductor ecosystem comprises 3,557 companies, of which 281 have raised funding and 142 have secured equity investments. According to the report, funding activity has gained momentum in recent years, with capital increasingly flowing into a smaller number of larger transactions. The two biggest funding rounds were IL JIN Electronics' $198 million private equity raise in September 2025 and Tessolve Semiconductor's $150 million private equity round in the same month. Moreover, Electronic Manufacturing Services (EMS) emerged as the most-funded
business segment and attracted $313 million since 2025, including $89 million in the trailing 12 months. Embedded Hardware followed with $51.9 million raised since 2025, all of it secured over the past 12 months. Other prominent segments attracting investor interest include Power Management Integrated Circuits and Fabless Semiconductor Manufacturing, the report said. Bengaluru remained the leading hub for semiconductor companies, hosting 626 firms or around 18 per cent of the total ecosystem. The city accounted for about 40 per cent of all equity funding raised by the sector to date. Noida, Gurugram, Kochi and Hyderabad also featured among key semiconductor clusters. The report further noted that the sector has recorded 62 acquisitions and 42 initial public offerings (IPOs) as of 2026 yearto-date. The report said the data reflects growing investor interest in India's semiconductor ecosystem as the country seeks to strengthen domestic capabilities across chip design, manufacturing and electronics value chains.
IISc Bengaluru develops more effective method to extract uranium from seawater
Kolkata/Bengaluru, Sep 7 (IANS) Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, have found a more effective way of extracting uranium from seawater. The method will also help in the removal of uranium from groundwater in a more effective manner. "Developing efficient technologies to extract uranium from seawater could offer a promising longterm pathway toward securing a sustainable supply of nuclear fuel. At the same time, uranium contamination of groundwater is an important environmental and public health concern," the institute has said. With land-based uranium deposits depleting fast, the focus is now on extracting uranium from seawater. As compared to about 7.5 million tonnes of uranium on land, seawater has about 4.5 billion tonnes of the vital material needed for nuclear power plants. "Over the years, researchers have developed a wide range of
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materials for capturing uranium from aqueous environments and seawater, including porous organic polymers and functional nanomaterials. Many of these materials rely on strong chemical interactions between functional groups and uranyl ions to selectively capture uranium. However, achieving highly selective uranium separation in the chemically complex environment of seawater remains a major challenge due to the high concentrations of competing ions," the IISc has said. "A recent study from the Department of Physics, IISc, presents a new approach to addressing this challenge. The team has shown that specially designed slipped covalent organic framework (COF) membranes can completely reject uranyl ions while allowing common seawater ions to pass through," it said. The researchers investigated the molecular-level mechanisms responsible for this selective separation. Their analysis of ion hydration structures, freeenergy barriers, and membraneinduced friction revealed how the structural arrangement of the COF layers controls the movement of different ions through the membrane.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
BRICS, SEMICON India 2026 can propel India’s semiconductor ambitions: IESA
New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) The recent BRICS Summit and the upcoming SEMICON India 2026 can together provide a significant opportunity for India to strengthen its position in the global semiconductor and electronics ecosystem, India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA) said on Sunday. Ashok Chandak, President of IESA, said the timing of the two platforms was particularly significant, as BRICS has underscored the need for resilient technology supply chains, semiconductors, critical minerals and frontier technologies, while SEMICON India 2026 can help translate these strategic priorities into industry partnerships,
investments and concrete opportunities. “For India, this is a unique opportunity to position itself as a trusted technology bridge and design engine for the Global South,” Chandak said. "With its semiconductor design strengths, engineering talent and growing manufacturing ecosystem, India can drive BRICS collaboration across chip design, manufacturing, advanced packaging, standards and resilient supply chains," he added. He noted that India’s strengths in semiconductor design, engineering talent and its expanding manufacturing ecosystem could enable the country to play a larger role in BRICS-led cooperation across chip design, semiconductor manufacturing, advanced packaging, technology standards and resilient supply chains. Chandak said the two platforms could complement each other by combining strategic direction
with industrial execution. “BRICS sets the strategic direction; SEMICON India showcases India’s ability to deliver,” he said. According to the IESA president, greater collaboration among BRICS economies in the semiconductor and electronics sectors can contribute to building more resilient and diversified technology supply chains while creating new avenues for investment and industrial partnerships. He added that the convergence of the BRICS agenda with SEMICON India 2026 could reinforce India’s role in developing a globally connected semiconductor and electronics ecosystem, particularly by strengthening cooperation with countries across the Global South. "Together, they can reinforce India’s role in building a resilient, diversified and globally connected semiconductor and electronics ecosystem," he noted.
ISRO says remains at centre of India’s space programme, refutes media reports as ‘baseless’
New Delhi, Sep 6 (IANS) The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Sunday issued a clarification regarding media reports on its role amid space sector reforms, saying it remains at the centre of India’s space programme, leading national efforts in advanced research, strategic capabilities, human space-flight, nextgeneration launch technologies, the Bharatiya Antariksh Station and lunar and planetary exploration, while a wider Indian ecosystem provides the scale needed to realise India’s 'Space Vision 2047'.
In a detailed post on X, the space agency said there has been considerable reporting in parts of the media around the future role of ISRO including speculations and misinformation that there is an attempt to privatise ISRO or reduce its role. “These assertions are completely baseless and incorrect. We wish to categorically state that ISRO will neither be privatised nor will its importance be diminished. ISRO will continue to remain India’s principal institution for advanced space research and technology development, national and strategic missions, space science and exploration, and critical and frontier space capabilities,” said the space agency. The participation of private sector in space is not about reducing ISRO’s role. “It is about enabling ISRO to
focus even more strongly on the next generation of India’s space programme, while industry scales mature technologies and capabilities. What is changing is not the importance of ISRO, but the scale and structure of India’s space ecosystem,” it noted. The space-sector reforms initiated since 2020 and institutionalised through the Indian Space Policy 2023, along with progressive liberalisation of FDI policy, aim to create a larger, stronger and globally competitive Indian space ecosystem. ISRO said that industry, start-ups and academia are being enabled to participate across the space value chain, complementing and multiplying ISRO’s capabilities. The reforms should therefore be seen as ecosystem expansion and capability multiplication, not privatisation.
Tesla to unveil long-delayed next-generation Roadster on October 1: Elon Musk
New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) Tesla CEO Elon Musk has announced that the electric vehicle maker will unveil its long-delayed next-
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generation Roadster on October 1, nearly a decade after the company first showcased plans for a successor to its original sports car. Tesla's official account on social media platform X posted “Go for launch” along with a graphic displaying October 1 as the date for the event. Musk, who also owns X, subsequently responded to the post, writing, “New Tesla Roadster Unveil 10.01.” The announcement comes after years of delays surrounding the Roadster programme. Tesla first unveiled the next-generation model in 2017 and had initially
said that deliveries would begin in 2020. However, the vehicle's development has repeatedly been pushed back. The Information reported in August that Tesla was planning to unveil the redesigned Roadster as early as that month. The report also said the event could feature a demonstration of a limitededition version equipped with cold-gas thrusters developed in collaboration with SpaceX. The reported demonstration is expected to take place at SpaceX's test facility in McGregor, Texas, according to the report.
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HEALTH
Army chief flags in Signals New Delhi Declaration gives push to traditional medicine cooperation among BRICS team which scaled three is envisaged as a platform for global cooperation in traditional dialogue, collaboration and medicine. The proposed expert difficult Ladakh peaks exchange among member states working group would provide
New Delhi/Leh, Sep 10 (IANS) Army chief, General Dhiraj Seth, has flagged in and interacted with the Corps of Signals mountaineering team, which successfully scaled three difficult peaks in the Ladakh region, the army announced on Thursday. "Dream of Valour – Three Peaks, One Mission, Infinite Resolve. #GeneralDhirajSeth, #COAS flagged in and interacted with the Corps of Signals Mountaineering Team following their successful summit of three challenging peaks in Ladakh," the army's Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADG-PI) said on its X handle.
The team successfully summited Mt Kiagar Ri (6,100 m) on August 13, Mt Mentok Kangri (6,250 m) on August 24, and Mt Chamser Kangri (6,622 m) on August 29, completing the remarkable feat in just sixteen days, it said, adding that the "expedition reflects an unwavering pursuit of excellence and the spirit of adventure in the Indian Army”. The team recently scaled three high-altitude peaks in a single expedition across Ladakh's Nun-Kun mountain range. This included Mount Nun (August 31), standing at a majestic 7,135 metres; Mount Kun (August 15), standing at 7,077 metres; and Mount Delta-41 (August 26), standing at 5,908 metres, even as they faced severe high-altitude hardships, including hostile weather, glaciers, and steep snow-covered slopes during the climb.
New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) The New Delhi Declaration adopted at the 18th BRICS Summit has given a push to international cooperation in Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine (TCIM), with member countries welcoming the proposed establishment of a BRICS Expert Working Group on the subject, an official statement on Sunday. The proposed working group under the BRICS Health Track
on traditional medicine, the Ministry of AYUSH said. The Declaration also calls for greater cooperation in research on medicinal plants and herbal preparations used for therapeutic and preventive purposes. It recognises the shared traditional pharmacopoeias of BRICS countries as a potential foundation for developing safe, effective and affordable therapeutic products, according to the ministry. Union Minister Prataprao Jadhav said the recognition of TCIM in the declaration was an important step towards strengthening
a platform for member states to share knowledge, strengthen research and advance evidencebased approaches, he said. "India remains committed to taking forward Ayurveda and other traditional systems of medicine through scientific research, quality assurance and international collaboration," Jadhav said. Meanwhile, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha said the declaration marked an important step towards advancing structured cooperation on TCIM among BRICS countries.
Kolkata, Sep 13 (IANS) The number of dengue-affected people in West Bengal during the current calendar year has crossed the 5,000 mark, according to the latest statistics provided by the
state Health Department. As per the most recent bulletin issued by the Health Department on Sunday, the number of dengue-affected people in the state, as of September 11, is 5,002. "However, the alarming factor is that the total number of dengueaffected people till the same date in August was less than 2,500. This means that over the last month, over 2,500 additional individuals have been freshly affected by dengue," a senior Health Department official said. As per the latest statistics provided by the department, the
maximum number of affected people so far has been from the Murshidabad district at 1,072, followed by Kolkata at 500 and North 24 Parganas at 450. "This is as per the trend every year, since in almost all the last few years these three districts have witnessed the maximum number of dengue-affected people," the official said. However, even amid the massive rise in the number of newly affected persons over the last month, the Health Department officials are finding a silver lining.
Number of dengue affected in West Bengal this year crosses 5,000
India administers over 80 lakh HPV vaccine doses under national campaign since Feb
New Delhi, Sep 11 (IANS) India has crossed a significant milestone in its efforts to prevent cervical cancer, with over 80 lakh doses of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine administered under the National HPV Vaccination Campaign since its launch in February 2026, an official statement said on Friday. Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram have achieved 100 per cent coverage of their respective identified target populations, the statement from Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said. Bihar, Andhra Pradesh and Assam have crossed 90 per cent coverage, while Karnataka has achieved more than 85 per cent coverage. Chhattisgarh, Sikkim, Kerala, Telangana and Odisha have crossed 60 per cent coverage. The nationwide drive, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February 2026, offers voluntary, single‑dose HPV vaccination free of cost to 14‑year‑old girls at government health facilities with parental consent. As per Registrar General of India (RGI) 2021 estimates, approximately 1.2 crore girls constitute the annual cohort of 14-year-olds who are expected to benefit from the initiative each year.
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The progress in Assam and other Northeastern States also demonstrated the role of integrated community health networks and coordinated fieldlevel action in expanding access across geographically diverse areas. Healthcare providers, including paediatricians, gynaecologists and experts from institutions such as AIIMS, along with teachers and frontline health workers including ASHAs and ANMs, have supported awareness and mobilisation efforts across states and districts. The campaign has also leveraged India’s digital health infrastructure through the U-WIN platform, enabling programme managers to monitor vaccination coverage at the district level, identify coverage gaps and missed beneficiaries, and support more effective programme planning and resource allocation. Currently, 87 per cent of uppermiddle-income countries, 78 per cent of lower-middle-income countries and 54 per cent of lowincome countries have adopted HPV vaccines in their National Immunization Programmes. All vaccination sessions under the campaign are conducted under the supervision of trained medical officers at government health facilities. Government health facilities are also linked with 24×7 healthcare facilities for appropriate management of rare Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI). This mechanism ensures timely assessment, monitoring and management of any vaccination-related adverse event.
India, Germany collaborate on energy-efficient ‘Green AI’ models for healthcare
New Delhi, Sep 4 (IANS) A two‑day Indo‑German Bilateral Workshop on Green AI for Healthcare and Mental Wellness was held at IIT Delhi that focused on sustainable, energy‑efficient AI models for real‑world healthcare deployment and cross‑border collaboration, a statement said on Friday. The workshop linked environmental sustainability with healthcare equity and laid groundwork for future joint initiatives in human‑centred, sustainable AI. The workshop focused on Green AI for Healthcare, addressing the environmental and societal impacts of generative AI with particular emphasis on sustainable, efficient models for real-world healthcare deployment, the statement from IIT Delhi.
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The workshop -- sponsored by the Indo‑German Science and Technology Centre -- a flagship joint initiative established by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), saw 30 experts and early‑career researchers delivering keynotes, technical sessions, panels and poster presentations. The event aimed to advance energy‑efficient AI solutions for healthcare and mental wellness and facilitate Indo‑German knowledge exchange on efficient AI models and responsible deployment of AI in healthcare. Further, it explored applications in medical imaging, clinical decision support, mental health and multilingual healthcare. “Through this workshop, IGSTC seeks to catalyse deeper IndoGerman collaboration, bringing
together complementary strengths to address shared challenges in Green AI, healthcare and mental wellness,” said Dr. Kusumita Arora, Director, IGSTC. Arora expressed hope that the partnerships forged at the workshop will translate into sustainable innovations with realworld impact. Other objectives of the workshop included identifying technical, infrastructural, regulatory, and ethical challenges in deploying AI across diverse healthcare settings. It also aimed to foster academic, clinical, and industry collaboration between India and Germany, the ministry said. The workshop also targeted a roadmap for future joint research, innovation, and capacity-building initiatives. “The next frontier of AI is not simply about building larger models, but about building intelligent systems that are efficient, sustainable, trustworthy, and accessible. Healthcare and mental wellness provide an important opportunity to turn this vision into real societal impact,” said Prof. Tanmoy Chakraborty, IIT Delhi.
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INDIA NEWS
KING
RELEASE DATE: 24 December 2026 LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)
DAAYRA
RELEASE DATE: 18 September 2026 LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)
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Sept 16-30, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 3
PRODUCER: Red Chillies Entertainment & Marflix Pictures DIRECTOR: Siddharth Anand CAST: Shah Rukh Khan
PRODUCER: Vineet Jain and Jayantilal Gada DIRECTOR: Meghna Gulzar CAST: Kareena Kapoor, Prithviraj Sukumaran & Prammod Sanghi
PRAHAAR - THE UJJWAL NIKAM STORY
NEW RELEASES
PRODUCER: Dinesh Vijan DIRECTOR: Avinash Arun CAST: Raj Kumar Rao, Wamiqa
RELEASE DATE: 16 October 2026
Gabbi, Tarun Sharma, Ashish
LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)
Vidyarti, Sikandar Kher
VVAN - FORCE OF THE FOREST
PRODUCER: Ekta R Kapoor, Shobha Kapoor, Deepak Kumar Mishra, Arunabh Kumar DIRECTOR: Deepak Kumar Mishra
RELEASE DATE: 25 September 2026 LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)
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New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the BRICS Summit 2026 as media personnel watch the proceedings on a display screen at the Media Centre at Bharat Mandapam, in New Delhi on Sunday, September 13,
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New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivers welcome remarks during a session at the 18th BRICS Summit at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Sunday, September 13, 2026.
London: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay during the signing of MoUs for establishing and expanding Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in Tamil Nadu at an event in London, UK, on Monday, September 14, 2026.
Ajmer: Hindu devotees gather to offer prayers at a pandal during Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in Ajmer on Tuesday, September 15, 2026.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Masoud Pezeshkian during their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on Friday, September 11, 2026.
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New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and other world leaders during a group photograph at the 18th BRICS Summit at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Sunday, September 13, 2026.
Auli: Indian and US Army personnel participate in the 22nd edition of the India-US Joint Military Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2026 on Tuesday, September 15, 2026.
New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar cochairs the 19th India-Vietnam Joint Commission Meeting with Vietnamese Foreign Minister Le Hoai Trung in New Delhi on Monday, September 14, 2026.
Umroi: Indian and Myanmar Army personnel participate in the fifth edition of the IndiaMyanmar Bilateral Army Exercise IMBAX 2026 at the Joint Training Node in Umroi, Meghalaya, on Tuesday, September 15, 2026
PHOTO FEATURE
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping during the 18th BRICS Summit at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Sunday, September 13, 2026.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi poses for a group photograph with President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Masoud Pezeshkian, Russian President Vladimir Putin, President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa, Brazil’s Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, BRICS leaders, Chairs of the BRICS Business Council and the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance during the BRICS Business Forum 2026 in New Delhi on Friday, September 11, 2026.
New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar meets Uruguay’s Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin in New Delhi on Friday, September 11, 2026.
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Bengaluru: Vehicles stuck in a traffic jam on Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Flyover in Yeshwanthpur in Bengaluru on Friday, September 11, 2026.
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BOLLYWOOD COVERAGE
Venice: German director Werner Herzog (C), American actress Kate Mara (R) and American actress Rooney Mara pose at the red carpet before the premiere of the film “Bucking Fastard” during the 83rd Venice International Film Festival in Venice, Italy, Sept. 3, 2026.
Mumbai: Actress Diana Penty at the Indian Fashion Glamour League (IFGL) red carpet in Mumbai on Friday, September 11, 2026.
Venice: British actor Orlando Bloom poses at the red carpet before the premiere of the film “Bucking Fastard” during the 83rd Venice International Film Festival in Venice, Italy, Sept. 3, 2026.
Mumbai: Actress Diana Penty at the Indian Fashion Glamour League (IFGL) red carpet in Mumbai on Friday, September 11,
Venice: Danish director May el-Toukhy (L) of the film Woman Unknown, also the winner of the Golden Lion for Best Film,
Madrid: A model presents creations by Simorra during the Madrid Fashion Week in Madrid, Spain, on Monday, September 14, 2026.
Madrid: Models present creations by Simorra during the Madrid Fashion Week in Madrid, Spain, on Monday, September 14, 2026.
Mumbai: Actress Anusha Dandekar at the Indian Fashion Glamour League (IFGL) red carpet in Mumbai on Friday, September 11, 2026.
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Madrid: A model presents creations by Simorra during the Madrid Fashion Week in Madrid, Spain, on Monday, September 14,
Mumbai: Actor Emraan Hashmi spotted at the Mumbai airport in Mumbai on Monday, December 22,
Mumbai: Actor and dancer Malaika Arora on the set of Pitch To Get Rich season 2 in Mumbai on Monday, September 07, 2026.
Madrid: Models present creations by Pedro del Hierro during the Madrid Fashion Week in Madrid, Spain, on Monday, September 14, 2026.
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ENTERTAINMENT
Neeti Mohan says her ‘The Revolutionaries’ song captures Rajinikanth’s ‘Dharman’ unit wraps up second schedule of shoot! blossoming love, celebrates the woman in love
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layback singer Neeti Mohan has shared that her song ‘Maahiya’ from the upcoming streaming series ‘The Revolutionaries’ celebrates the love and warmth between the lead romantic interests in the show. ‘Maahiya’ is a love song that captures the budding romance between Sachindra Nath Sanyal (played by Rohit Saraf) and Pratibha Lahiri (played by Pratibha Ranta).
The song speaks about the joy of having someone who means everything. The track is composed by Akashdeep Sengupta, and is crooned by Neeti Mohan and Tushar Joshi with lyrics furnished by Tolia Lavraj Singh and Gaurab Chakraborty. Talking about the song, Neeti Mohan shared, “‘Maahiya’ is such a beautiful and soothing song, and I really loved the warmth that comes through in its melody and lyrics. What I particularly love
is the way the song celebrates the woman he loves, making her the centre of every emotion and finding a beautiful way to tell her that she means everything to him. There is something very pure and effortless about that feeling, and Tushar and I had a lovely time bringing it to life. I hope listeners enjoy its soft, romantic energy and find their own beautiful moments of love in it”. The song is an ode to the woman at the centre of its story, with its lyrics constantly returning to the idea that she is everything to the person who loves her. ‘Maahiya’ creates an intimate and uplifting listening experience, allowing its romantic essence to take centre stage. Inspired by true events, ‘The Revolutionaries’ builds an outan-out entertaining cinematic experience about the untold story of India’s fight for freedom. The series is based on Sanjeev Sanyal's bestseller ‘Revolutionaries: The Other Story Of How India Won Its Freedom’. Written by Sanyuktha Chawla Shaikh, Akshita Wadhwana, Shobhit Narang, and Rutvi Mehta, The Revolutionaries also stars Bhuvan Bam, and Gurfateh Pirzada leading the cast, and Jason Shah, Paoli Dam, and Tota Roy Chowdhury in key roles.
Kartik Aaryan shares photo dump enroute he makers of director Ashwath kabilanchelliah." T Marimuthu's eagerly awaited Earlier, Raaj Kamal Films London ahead of ‘Captain India’ shoot action entertainer 'Dharman', International, the production
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ollywood actor Kartik Aaryan has shared a glimpse of his life as he gears up for the shooting of his upcoming film ‘Captain India’. On Friday, the actor took to his Instagram, and shared a series of pictures and videos from his trip to London. The post includes pictures of airports, him listening
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to music, reading the shooting draft of the script on his tablet, and his luggage. The actor flew from Mumbai to London. He wrote in the caption, “VABB to EGLL”. ‘Captain India’ reportedly draws on India’s real-life evacuation of citizens from a war-torn country. As seen in one of the pictures,
the film is directed by Shimit Amin, who is known for ‘Chak De! India’. It is produced by T-Series‘ Bhushan Kumar and Baweja Studios, alongside Dopamine Studios, with S.B. Films handling production. Earlier, in July, the actor was invited by President Droupadi Murmu to attend the prestigious ‘At Home Reception’ on 15th August at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. The 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3' actor was a part of the highprofile gathering hosted by the President during the 80th Independence Day. Kartik was the only actor from Bollywood to attend the prestigious gathering, joining the distinguished invitees. For the uninitiated, the ‘At Home Reception’ is a formal gathering hosted by the President of India where prominent names from various walks of life, including national leaders, armed forces personnel, sportspersons, artists and notable achievers, come together under a single roof. This invitation for Kartik followed his recent honour of being awarded with the 'Best Actor' title at the 72nd National Film Awards for his performance in Kabir Khan’s much-appreciated sports drama 'Chandu Champion'. In July, Kartik shared a special family moment on social media when his name was announced as the winner of a National Award.
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featuring Tamil superstar Rajinikanth in the lead, on Friday announced that the unit of the film had now wrapped up its second schedule of shooting.
Raaj Kamal Films International, the production house of veteran actor and parliamentarian Kamal Haasan, took to its social media timelines to drop the update with a video clip. It wrote, "Dharman 2nd Schedule Wrapped. Swag Mode: ON." One of the scenes in the video clip released showed Rajinikanth as a senior medical faculty lecturing junior doctors. For the unaware, the unit had begun the second schedule of the film on August 13 this year. The makers, at the time of announcing the commencement of the second schedule, had said, "The deadly doctor. #Dharman Schedule 2 Begins, and this one's legendary. #KettaPaiyanSir. #SuperstarRajinikanth #KamalHaasan." The film has triggered huge excitement among fans ever since the makers announced the project. In June this year, the makers had dropped a making video that showed how the team had arrived at Superstar Rajinikanth's look in the film. Taking to his X timeline, director Ashwath Marimuthu shared a brand new poster of Rajinikanth from the film and wrote, "We heard you !! Ithan hair styleu (This is the hair style)!! Ithan looku (This is the look)! Sexy work @
house of actor Kamal Haasan which is producing this film, shared a glimpse video and wrote, "THE OG SWAG. #Dharman. The Making of the First Look." The video featured a shot of the accessories that were kept for Rajini to choose from. It also showed director Aswath showing the exact pose in which he wanted the Superstar to stand. The video also showed Kamal Haasan accompanying Rajinikanth and the two legends of Tamil cinema exchanging pleasantries. For the unaware, Rajinikanth plays a doctor who takes on criminals in Dharman. Actor, producer and parliamentarian Kamal Haasan, while announcing the title of the film, had said, "Dharmame vellum! (Only Dharma will win) #Dharman #Thalaivar173 #SuperstarRajinikanth @ rajinikanth #Mahendran @Dir_Ashwath @ anirudhofficial @anbariv @ RKFI @turmericmediaTM @ magizhmandram." The title poster of the film that was released on the occasion showed Rajinikanth in an operation theatre in a hospital holding a scalpel, even as he seemed to have one leg placed over the body of a slain rowdy sheeter. The film is to have music by Anirudh. Cinematography for the film is by Niketh Bommi and editing will be by Pradeep E Raghav.
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ENTERTAINMENT
Divyenndu and Bhuvan Arora face Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Vicky Kaushal off as a clever hack spirals out of wraps up filming of SLB’s ‘Love & War’ control in ‘Waiting Hai’ trailer ndian auteur Sanjay Leela
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Bhansali has wrapped up the shooting of her upcoming film ‘Love & War’ which stars Ranbir Kapoor, his wife Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal. SLB, who is known for his opulent visuals, and emotionally charged narratives, is expected to present a cinematic spectacle that combines scale with intense human drama for audiences worldwide. The film is now set to enter postproduction. ‘Love & War’ is one of the most awaited releases of 2027, and this update has further added to the anticipation. The film has also secured a long Republic Day weekend, with its release scheduled for January 21, 2027. The film was officially announced in January 2024. It marks SLB’s 1st collaboration with Vicky Kaushal and a reunion with Ranbir Kapoor after ‘Saawariya’ and Alia after ‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’. The project has drawn attention primarily due to its high-profile
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he makers of “Waiting Hai” have unveiled the trailer of the upcoming film on social media. It offers a glimpse into a high-stakes face-off between Divyenndu and Bhuvan Arora. The trailer shows how a clever hack sets off a chain of events that threatens to spiral into something much bigger than anyone could have anticipated. Set in Patna, “Waiting Hai” brings Divyenndu and Bhuvan Arora together in a high-stakes face-off sparked by a clever hack that soon grows into something far bigger. Divyenndu plays Sugam Mishra, a railway constable struggling to settle into a demanding new job while dealing with a difficult boss and the chaos of his personal life. Bhuvan Arora essays Afroz Hamsa, a tech whiz who discovers a way to beat the system.
Speaking about the series, Amogh Dusad, Director and Head of AVOD Content, Prime Video India, said, “At Prime Video, we are always looking to bring audiences stories that take familiar worlds and present them in fresh and entertaining ways. Waiting Hai does exactly that by taking the everyday struggle of securing a railway ticket and building an entire scam dramedy around it. I think what makes the series particularly special is how rooted it feels. It has humor, heart, and characters you can recognize, even as the situations around them become increasingly unpredictable. With Sameer Vidwans’ distinctive storytelling and a phenomenal ensemble led by Divyenndu and Bhuvan Arora, we believe Waiting Hai will strike a strong chord with audiences.”
casting and reported large-scale budget. The film is reportedly set against a war backdrop, though plot details remain undisclosed.
Controversy emerged around its release date clash with other bigbudget films, leading to industry speculation about box-office competition.
Orry on his ‘finale outfit’ on Khatron Ke Khiladi 15: ‘I am so glad I wore it too early’
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rry has opened up about his journey on the stunt-based reality show “Khatron Ke Khiladi season 15.” He shared a heartfelt reflection on self-doubt, resilience, and the importance of believing in oneself. In a social media post addressed to Rohit Shetty, Orry revealed that he had been convinced his journey on the show was nearing its end and had even prepared a special “finale outfit” for the occasion. Reflecting on the experience, he said that contestants often spend too much time anticipating failure instead of believing in their ability to keep going.
Rajinikanth’s publicist trashes report that claims actor urged ‘Jailer 2’ makers to get ‘U/A’ certificate for film
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uperstar Rajinikanth's team has now trashed a report that claimed that Rajinikanth had urged the makers of his eagerly awaited action entertainer 'Jailer 2' to get a U/A certificate for the
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film that has been directed by Nelson Dilipkumar. Quoting the media report on his X timeline, Rajinikanth's publicist Riaz K Ahmed wrote, "This is untrue. Jailer 2 updates will be
given by the production house as per their schedule..." The report that Rajinikanth's publicist quoted claimed that censor board officials were mulling the possibility of giving 'Jailer 2', which is one of the most eagerly awaited films of the year, an 'A' certificate because of the violence in the film. The report further claimed that superstar Rajinikanth had however urged the film's makers to get a U/A certificate as an 'A' certificate would deny those under 18 years of age the opportunity to watch the film. Rajinikanth's team has clarified that there is no truth in this report. For the unaware, Jailer 2 is slated to hit screens worldwide on
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October 15 this year. At the time of announcing the release date, the film's makers released a teaser in which actor Vinayakan was seen issuing a threat with a laugh. "You can't be at peace after killing me. There's a big world behind me, Jailer! This is a huge network. You won't know who is coming (for you), when and how. Your life will turn into hell." The teaser then showed Rajini's arrival in style, even as viewers got to catch a glimpse of the other characters in the film. The film has triggered huge expectations among fans and the general public ever since the project was first announced. In April this year, the makers had announced that the unit had wrapped up the film's
shooting. The makers had then shared pictures of a cake cutting ceremony that had taken place to mark the completion of filming. One of the prime reasons for the excitement over the upcoming film is that 'Jailer 2' promises to have loads of action and entertainment just like the first part which went on to emerge a blockbuster, raking in a whopping 650 crores worldwide. 'Jailer 1', which opened to positive reviews, took a strong opening. In fact, the film's overseas distributor Ayngaran International had confirmed that the film had made a whopping 33 crores on its very first day, the highest in Superstar Rajinikanth’s career!
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