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India’s global space market share likely to rise fivefold Quad aligned in advancing closer
Washington, Aug 14 (IANS) India’s share of the global space market could rise fivefold within seven years as policy reforms and closer ties with the United States accelerate the growth of
its private space industry, the US Department of Commerce has said. India currently accounts for less than 2 per cent of the global space market. But that share is forecast to reach 10 per cent within the next five to seven years, the department’s International Trade Administration said in its August Aerospace and Defence Exporter Alert. “India’s private sector space ecosystem is developing rapidly, and the Indian government’s
ISI orchestrates Hamas-Lashkar-Jaish axis to replicate Gaza-style tunnel warfare in Kashmir
New Delhi, Aug 13 (IANS) Pakistan’s military establishment and the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) are actively fostering a tactical alliance
between Hamas and Pakistanbased terror outfits Lashkar-eTaiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, intelligence sources and a new security report revealed. Indian security agencies have repeatedly flagged the emerging links between Hamas and Pakistan-based terror groups in recent months. With Lashkare-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-eMohammed ( JeM) already posing Continued on Page 3
steps towards privatisation will create opportunities for international space companies as well,” it said. The alert designated India’s space sector as its “Market of the Month”. It highlighted investment prospects for US companies in satellite systems, advanced spaceflight, connectivity, manufacturing and related technologies. The United States and India have Obituaryon page Page 3
collaboration, delivering results for free and open Indo-Pacific: US envoy Gor
New Delhi, Aug 13 (IANS) US Ambassador to India, Sergio
Gor, said on Thursday that Quad nations are aligned in advancing closer collaboration and delivering results for a free and open Indo-Pacific. Gor made the statement following his meeting with Australia's High Commissioner to India Philip Green and Japan's Ambassador Continued on Page 3
UN humanitarian office reiterates support for Colombia earthquake response
United Nations, Aug 13 (IANS) The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and its partners continue to support
the government-led response to the devastating earthquake in Colombia, said the office. Widespread damage to homes and public infrastructure has also been reported, OCHA said in its daily news update. Humanitarian assessments are ongoing, particularly in the hardest-hit areas, where disruptions to communications, transport and public services continue to hinder relief efforts. Emergency shelter, food
assistance, access to safe drinking water and health care for affected communities are among the top priorities, the office said. The United Nations and its partners are also mobilising resources. The World Food Programme is sending food, while the World Health Organization is dispatching medical supplies from its warehouses in the country, OCHA said. Farhan Haq, deputy spokesperson Continued on Page 3
Prez Trump, PM Modi will settle tariff row: NITI Aayog highlights 4 key White House adviser Peter Navarro sectors to position India as Washington, Aug 11 (IANS) steep US tariffs. global manufacturing hub White House trade adviser Peter "The President and your prime Navarro said on Tuesday that US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi would work directly to resolve differences over India’s purchases of Russian oil and the threat of
Continued on Page 3
minister have a very good working relationship,” Navarro told reporters at the White House. “They are going to work that out amongst themselves, and it’s
Continued on Page 3
New Delhi, Aug 13 (IANS) NITI Aayog on Thursday highlighted four high-potential manufacturing sectors -chemicals, textiles, telecom and network equipment and solar photovoltaic manufacturing -which can fuel India’s ambition to become global manufacturing powerhouse. A NITI Aayog report, titled ‘Key Sectors to Position India as a Global Manufacturing Hub,’ focuses on understanding India’s manufacturing landscape in Continued on Page 3
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Aug 16-31, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 1 We will work to provide AI skill training to 1 crore youth in coming one year: PM Modi
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COVER STORIES
India’s global space market share likely to rise fivefold Quad aligned in advancing closer Continued from page 1
cooperated in space since India’s first rocket launch in 1963. That rocket was an American-made Nike-Apache. The partnership has since expanded through scientific exchanges, joint working groups and collaborative projects. NASA and US companies have also supplied technology and components to the Indian Space Research Organisation, or ISRO. At the same time, emerging Indian space startups are seeking to expand their operations and manufacturing presence in the United States, the department said. In February 2026, the Business Council for
International Understanding led an International Trade Administration-certified US commercial space mission to Bengaluru. The alert described it as successful. “Space is a major area of US-India cooperation, benefiting both countries through commerce, technology, and joint policy efforts,” the department said. The commercial relationship is being developed through the US-India Civil Space Joint Working Group. Cooperation has also been strengthened by the TRUST initiative launched in 2025, according to the alert. A Commercial Space sub-working group is jointly led by the US Department of Commerce and
India’s Department of Space. It seeks to remove barriers facing companies in both countries. Its work covers market access, procurement, foreign direct investment and export controls. The February 2025 joint statement by the leaders of the two countries also called for stronger cooperation in space exploration, safety and professional exchanges. The department urged US companies seeking entry into India to attend the Bengaluru Space Expo from September 7 to 9. The event will bring together industry leaders and policymakers and offer Indian and international companies an opportunity to showcase their capabilities.
UN humanitarian office reiterates support for Colombia earthquake response Continued from page 1
for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, said Wednesday that an allocation from the UN Central Emergency Response Fund is in the works. The United Nations will launch an appeal for quake relief in Colombia once information is available about the extent of damage, said Haq, noting that the needs are expected to be very severe, Xinhua news agency reported. The death toll from Monday's earthquake in Colombia
has risen to 265, with 3,494 people injured and 496 still missing, Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella said Wednesday. The president said more than 53,000 people had been affected by the disaster. He said he would declare a state of economic emergency to speed up assistance to those affected, saying the government's efforts remain focused on searching for the missing. Earlier on Aug 11, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar had extended
condolences to Omar Bula Escobar, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Colombia, on the devastating earthquake in the South American nation. "Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives and the destruction caused by the earthquake in Colombia. Extend heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones. Also pray for the swift recovery to those injured. India stands ready to extend all possible assistance," EAM Jaishankar wrote on X.
Prez Trump, PM Modi will settle tariff row: White House adviser Peter Navarro Continued from page 1
not for me in any gaggle to get between that." Navarro was responding to a question about legislation associated with the late Republican senator Lindsey Graham. The measure could lead to tariffs of up to 100 per cent on countries buying Russian energy. The reporter asked whether the proposed tariff, combined with continuing trade negotiations, could further strain India-US relations. Navarro did not address the possible tariff directly. He instead referred to an opinion article he had written for the Financial Times several months ago about India’s energy trade with Russia.
Navarro said he had argued in the article that India’s Russian oil purchases expanded after Moscow invaded Ukraine. “Prior to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, India was not involved in the oil trade with Russia, but afterwards it got heavily involved,” he said. Navarro also accused India of selling products linked to Russian oil and said the trade had helped finance Moscow’s war effort. He offered no supporting figures during the exchange. He said the issue had since been resolved but did not explain what action had been taken or whether he was referring to India’s oil purchases, the sale of petroleum products or another aspect of the
trade. "And that issue has been resolved," he said. "Maybe I had a little bit to do with that with that op-ed." His remarks came as Washington and New Delhi continued negotiations over trade. Earlier in the gaggle, Navarro defended the Trump administration’s broader tariff policy. He said tariffs were encouraging foreign companies to build factories in the United States and were also stimulating domestic investment. "The signature there are the tariffs, which are bringing onshore both dollar investment from foreigners when they’re building here to avoid the tariffs, but also indigenous investment here," he said.
NITI Aayog highlights 4 key sectors to position India as global manufacturing hub Continued from page 1
relation to global trends, sectoral growth opportunities and global benchmarks. It also examines the factors that influence manufacturing competitiveness, including market potential, infrastructure readiness, policy support, raw material availability, technology readiness, employment potential and India’s current position in the
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value chain. “The project seeks to identify sectors where India has significant growth potential and where targeted interventions can strengthen domestic capabilities, enhance competitiveness and value addition, and accelerate export-oriented manufacturing growth,” according to an official statement.
This edition of the report focuses on four high-potential manufacturing sectors, to be followed by reports on eight more sectors. The domestic chemicals industry is broadly led by three key consumption segments: petrochemicals and organic chemicals, specialty chemicals, and inorganic chemicals.
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collaboration, delivering results for free and open Indo-Pacific: US envoy Gor Continued from page 1
to India Keiichi Ono, where they discussed upcoming Quad initiatives. Quad brings together four countries - India, Australia, Japan, and the United States, with a commitment to work as a force for global good and to support an open, free, and inclusive IndoPacific that is prosperous and resilient. "Productive discussions today with Australia's High Commissioner to India Philip Green and Japan's Ambassador to India Ono Keiichi on upcoming Quad initiatives and meetings. Together with India, our four nations are aligned in advancing closer collaboration and delivering results for a free and
open Indo-Pacific," Gor wrote on X following the meeting. Last month, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio participated in the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila. The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific and underlined their strong support for ASEAN's unity and centrality in the region. In a joint statement, EAM Jaishankar, Wong, Motegi and Rubio underscored the Quad's strong resolve for the IndoPacific region's prosperity and its cooperation with ASEAN and its member states.
ISI orchestrates Hamas-Lashkar-Jaish axis to replicate Gaza-style tunnel warfare in Kashmir Continued from page 1
a major threat to India, the reported involvement of Hamas has raised fresh concerns. Indian security officials say that the move to bring Hamas into the picture is part of a well-planned strategy by the Pakistan Army and its intelligence agency, the ISI. “The growing links between Hamas and outfits such as the Jaish and Lashkar are not aimed solely at carrying out terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir,” the officials warned. If viewed in the larger context, the objective appears to be to bring the LeT and Jaish up to the operational standards of Hamas. Officials say the Pakistani establishment wants these groups to sustain a prolonged confrontation with the Indian armed forces, drawing lessons from the way Hamas has continued its conflict with Israel. Usanas Foundation, an Udaipurbased security and foreign policy think tank, in its latest paper titled ‘Hamas-Pakistan Nexus: A Threat to India and Israel,’ says that the arrival of Hamas in Pakistan is mutually beneficial, providing safe havens to Hamas and finances to its fledgling economy, as it faces major reverses in West Asia. “In return, Pakistani terror groups will leverage the expertise of Hamas in guerrilla warfare and creating infrastructure for tunnel-centric warfare in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK),” the paper states. The research also states that if the vast tunnel networks are created in PoK, then the Indian army would face jihadists waging guerrilla warfare from these tunnels just like what Israel faces in Gaza. Furthermore, if a war breaks out between India and Pakistan, another Hamas expertise, which is propaganda, will be a challenge for India.
It is widely known that Hamas has successfully run its propaganda campaign on American campuses, the paper notes. An Intelligence Bureau official said such a strategy would be highly advantageous for the Pakistan Army. It would allow terror groups to remain engaged in a sustained confrontation with the Indian armed forces, while keeping the Pakistani military largely out of direct involvement. In such a scenario, the Pakistan Army could exert influence and provide support from the background without having to take an active role in the fighting, said the IB official. “The Pakistan establishment will also have a deniability factor in the case of such a war. None can accuse Pakistan of launching a full-fledged war with India using its army,” the official said. Another official said that Hamas would always be welcomed in Pakistan, even by the citizens of the country. Pakistan’s propaganda machinery has sought to draw parallels between Gaza and Kashmir, a narrative that officials say has helped fuel anti-Israel sentiment in the country. This messaging has also contributed to hostility towards the Jewish community. At recent solidarity rallies held in Pakistan over the Gaza conflict, the rhetoric has largely focused on condemning Israel. In recent months, several highprofile meetings and rallies have been held in Pakistan, with leaders and representatives linked to Hamas, Lashkar and Jaish taking part. Officials say the speeches at these gatherings have largely centred on a narrative of Muslim victimhood, with speakers drawing misleading comparisons between the situation in Gaza and Kashmir.
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INDIA NEWS
Aug 16-31, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 1
NEWS FROM INDIA
We will work to provide AI skill training to Policies under PM Modi f 1 crore youth in coming one year: PM Modi ocus on poor, youth, women, farmers: CM Yogi on I-Day
New Delhi, Aug 15 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, while addressing the nation on the 80th Independence Day from the ramparts of the historic Red Fort, said the government will work to provide Artificial Intelligence (AI) skill training to one crore youth over the next year, enabling them to acquire the capabilities required
to lead the world in the field of AI. Highlighting the role of young people in India's journey towards becoming a Viksit Bharat, PM Modi said, "My dear fellow citizens, when I speak of a Viksit Bharat, when I speak of advancing the nation at high speed, who is the greatest beneficiary of this? Who is the greatest driving force behind all these efforts? If there is a driving force, it is the youth of my country. It is the power of my nation's youth. The youth have an immense role to play in the journey towards a Viskit Bharat." He said India has witnessed a significant rise in entrepreneurship, with more than 2.5 lakh startups operating across the country and young
entrepreneurs contributing to employment generation. "There are more than 2.5 lakh startups. Youths are working towards this and also creating jobs. The government has announced a Rs 1 lakh crore fund, I want to say to them, come with the dream, we will not let you feel lack of any resources." Highlighting India's digital growth, PM Modi said, "India has the cheapest internet." He also underlined the expansion of higher education infrastructure in the country. "I want to give you data from 2004 to 2014, there were less than 350 universities. Today, we have 650 new universities. We are almost crossing 1,000," he said.
Assam Rifles organises patriotic rallies, youth activities in remote Manipur villages
Imphal, Aug 14 (IANS) Ahead of the Independence Day, the Assam Rifles organised a series of patriotic rallies, youth engagement programmes, fitness activities, environmental initiatives and cleanliness drives across remote villages in Manipur, officials said. A Defence Spokesman said on Thursday that the initiatives were conducted in three mountainous districts -- Kamjong, Tengnoupal
and Churachandpur districts on August 12 and 13 as part of nationwide celebrations ahead of the 80th Independence Day. The programmes also commemorated 150 years of Vande Mataram and promoted the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign, besides fostering national integration and strengthening the bond between the security forces and local communities. In Kamjong district, the Assam Rifles conducted a Tiranga distribution and flag-dignity awareness drive at Phaikoh village on Thursday, followed by a Tiranga Run in which schoolchildren and local residents carried the National Flag and raised patriotic slogans.
At Good Shepherd School in Kasom Khullen, 240 students and 20 teachers joined Assam Rifles personnel in a Vande Mataram recitation and Tiranga Rally led by a senior official of Hungbei Company Operating Base (COB). A patriotic awareness session was also held at Aishi village to inspire local youth on the values of unity, harmony and responsible citizenship. In Tengnoupal district, which shares the border with Myanmar, the Assam Rifles conducted a Tiranga Run on August 12, drawing around 160 participants. The event concluded with cultural performances by local students and a Vande Mataram presentation by the Assam Rifles Pipe Band.
Over 4,000 young Indians attend Independence Day musical evening at Bharat Mandapam
New Delhi, Aug 14 (IANS) More than 4,000 young Indians, predominantly Gen Z, came together at the Bharat Mandapam here for an inspiring Independence Day Cultural Musical Evening centred on the theme "Nasha Mukt Yuva Bharat", combining patriotism, culture and a collective resolve against drug abuse. Hosted by the Member of Parliament Vikramjit Singh Sahney on Thursday, the evening featured traditional cultural performances, patriotic musical presentations and a special performance by popular singer Mika Singh. The programme also witnessed
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the participation of Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and various Members of Parliament, making it a significant gathering of political, social and youth leadership. A deeply emotional highlight of the evening was the felicitation of the families of brave Indian Army martyrs, acknowledging the supreme sacrifices made by the nation's bravehearts and the families who continue to carry their legacy of courage. Sahney also said that keeping with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the gathering reinforced the message that India's young population must be empowered with skills, opportunities and a healthy, drug-free environment to contribute meaningfully towards 'Viksit Bharat 2047'. The youth also took a collective pledge to stay away from intoxicants and become active
ambassadors of a 'Nasha Mukt Bharat'. Addressing the gathering, Sahney underlined the importance of giving young people not only awareness but also skills, dignity and opportunities, particularly those recovering from addiction. The Sun Foundation has been working on skill development and rehabilitation initiatives across Punjab, integrating vocational training with rehabilitation to help individuals rebuild their lives and return to the mainstream. The evening concluded with a powerful reaffirmation of the collective resolve for a stronger, healthier and empowered Yuva Bharat. Sahney said the event witnessed the presence of MPs Tarun Chugh, Govind Laljibhai Dholakia, Satnam Singh Sandhu, Tiruchi Siva, Ashok Kumar Mittal and other prominent people of the national capital.
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Lucknow, Aug 15 (IANS) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, on Saturday hoisted the National Flag at his official residence on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day and said that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, government policies are being formulated keeping in mind four key sections of society — the poor, youth, women and farmers. Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said, "On the occasion of Independence Day, I extend my heartfelt greetings to the people of the entire state. We all know that on this day in 1947, our country, India, attained independence as a result of a long struggle, sacrifice and martyrdom. The sense of freedom that every Indian experiences today in an atmosphere of liberty is the result of the sacrifices, penance and dedication of the great sons and martyrs of Mother India." He further said, "Everyone had only one belief and one sentiment
in their hearts: That we had to free our country from foreign rule. Freedom does not mean merely political independence. It also means complete freedom from anarchy, backwardness, poverty, illiteracy and inequality that continually weakened the country." Highlighting the collective responsibility of citizens in preserving the country’s freedom, CM Yogi said, "It provides renewed inspiration to every citizen to understand that if we want to preserve this freedom for a long time, it is not the responsibility of any one person, community or caste. Rather, all 140 crore Indians must collectively contribute to this effort in their respective fields. "The disorder, poverty, backwardness, inequality and lack of education that the country faced in 1947, many of these problems have been resolved over the past eight decades, while pathways to resolving many others have been created. The results of these efforts are visible today. Across the country, 25 crore people have been lifted out of multidimensional poverty, the scope of education has expanded, and the benefits of government schemes without discrimination have begun reaching every section of society."
Independence Day 2026: Armed Forces, CAPFs honoured with 78 Gallantry awards
New Delhi, Aug 14 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu has approved 78 gallantry awards to personnel of the Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) on the eve of the 80th Independence Day. The awards include 13 posthumous honours and recognise acts of exceptional courage and valour during operations across Jammu and Kashmir, the Northeast and other challenging operational areas. The list includes nine Kirti Chakras, of which seven have been awarded posthumously, one Bar to Shaurya Chakra, 19 Shaurya Chakras, five Bars to Sena Medals (Gallantry), 36 Sena Medals, three Nao Sena Medals and five Vayu Sena Medals. The President has also approved 89 Mention-in-Despatches,
including 75 Army, 10 Air Force and four Navy personnel. No Ashoka Chakra, the country's highest peacetime gallantry award, has been announced this year. Among the Army recipients, all three Kirti Chakras have gone to personnel of the Parachute Regiment's Special Forces. Lieutenant Colonel Maneo Francis PF of 21 Para (Special Forces), who is already a recipient of the Shaurya Chakra, and Major Jitendra Rathee of 2 Para (Special Forces) have been awarded the Kirti Chakra. Havildar Gajendra Singh of 2 Para (Special Forces) has received the honour posthumously. The remaining six Kirti Chakras have been awarded posthumously to Central Armed Police Forces personnel. The recipients are Head Constables Jagbir Singh and Bashir Ahmad, Special Grade Constables Jaswant Singh, Balvinder Singh and Tariq Hussain, and Special Task Force Inspector Sunil Kumar. The Army's other major gallantry awards include a Bar to the
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Aug 16-31, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 1
INDIA NEWS
‘May this day deepen our resolve to preserve harmony, brotherhood’: PM Modi on Partition Horrors Remembrance Day
New Delhi, Aug 14 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday marked Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, paying tribute to those who suffered during the Partition and recalling the courage of people who rebuilt their lives despite immense loss and displacement.
In a post on X, PM Modi said: “Today we mark Partition Horrors Remembrance Day. We recall the courage of all those who were impacted by Partition. It was a moment in history that tore apart several lives…families were uprooted, loved ones were lost, and immense suffering was endured.” “At the same time, overcoming this, people rebuilt their lives from nothing, turned adversity into achievement and contributed immensely to our nation’s progress. Their life journeys remind us of the strength of the human spirit. May this day deepen our resolve to preserve harmony and brotherhood in our nation and collectively work towards building a Viksit Bharat,” he added.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also remembered the victims of Partition and described August 14, 1947, as one of the most brutal chapters in history. In a post on X, HM Shah said: “The day of 14 August 1947 stands witness to one of the most brutal chapters in history, in which millions of people had to lose their lives enduring inhuman suffering, and tens of millions were forced to abandon their homes, property, and loved ones and become displaced. This scar of the country’s partition, which is a gift from the Congress, will never be forgotten by history. I pay my respectful homage to all those who lost their lives in this catastrophe and to those who struggled against the atrocities.”
Women among thousands join ‘Jail Bharo’ stir across Tripura
Agartala, Aug 10 (IANS) Thousands of people, including women, farmers, agricultural labourers and Anganwadi workers, participated in the ‘Jail Bharo Andolan’ (fill the jails movement) across Tripura on Monday in support of an 11‑point charter of demands, with police detaining more than 12,000 protesters at 21 locations across the state. The agitation, jointly called by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) and central trade unions,
focused on demands opposing the Centre’s economic, labour and agricultural policies. According to CPI (M) leaders in Tripura, more than 30,000 farmers, agricultural labourers, women workers and Anganwadi workers took part in rallies. They marched through the streets in different parts of the state as part of the nationwide programme. A police spokesman at the State Police Headquarters in Agartala said the statewide protests passed off peacefully without any major untoward incident. “More than 12,000 protesters, including women, were detained at 21 locations across all eight districts of Tripura and were later released,” the spokesman said.
CPI (M) politburo member and party state secretary Jitendra Chaudhury, former Chief Minister (1998–2018) Manik Sarkar, and senior Left leaders Pabitra Kar, Manik Dey, Rama Das, Agore Debbarma and Shankar Dutta, among others, led the agitation at different locations. Addressing a gathering in Agartala, Sarkar alleged that after 79 years of Independence, the country had not witnessed a government as “autocratic, dictatorial, anti‑constitutional and anti‑people” as the BJP‑led NDA government. He warned that if the government did not rectify itself, Left parties and organisations would launch much bigger agitations across the country.
Kenyan Speaker visits India, calls on VP Radhakrishnan
New Delhi, Aug 13 (IANS) Speaker of the National Assembly of Kenya, Moses Wetang’ula, is visiting India to strengthen parliamentary exchanges between India and Kenya, including the recently constituted Parliamentary Friendship Groups, the Indian Embassy in Kenya said on Thursday. “Kenya and India share a longstanding cordial friendship with strong legislative exchanges among the two Parliaments. I have arrived in New Delhi, India, for an official visit to the Lok Sabha at the invitation of my counterpart, the Hon. Shri Om Birla, Speaker of the Lok Sabha,” Wetang’ula stated on X. He added that H.E. Amb received him. Mary Mutuku, Deputy Head of Mission of the Republic of Kenya to India, alongside Hon. Umeshbhai Babubhai Patel, Member of the Lok Sabha, looked forward to productive bilateral engagements aimed at deepening friendship, parliamentary ties and
Washington/New Delhi, Aug 11 (IANS) Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, has welcomed the US court’s decision with “humility and deep respect for the judicial process”, as the court dismissed all criminal charges against Gautam Adani, Sagar Adani and their associate Vneet Jaain. Judge Nicholas Garaufis of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York dismissed criminal charges against the Adani Group on Monday related to securities and wire fraud with prejudice.
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that investors suffered no financial losses in the securities at the centre of the case against billionaire industrialist Gautam Adani, arguing that the absence of investor losses further undermined the government's own prosecution and reinforced its decision to seek dismissal of all criminal charges. In a detailed filing before the US District Court for the Eastern District of New York, the Department said one of the central weaknesses in the securities fraud case was that investors had not suffered any financial harm. "Not a single penny has ever been lost on the securities at issue," the filing states. It adds that two of the notes involved in the case "are fully paid back", while "the other two notes are currently paid up, with no indication of any change ahead".
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cooperation between Kenya and India. Om Birla welcomed Wetang’ula along with the Kenyan parliamentary delegation to the Indian Parliament. “The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss the longstanding friendship between India and Kenya, rooted in shared democratic values and a common historical legacy. The recently constituted Parliamentary Friendship Groups in both countries will provide an important platform for deepening parliamentary engagement, fostering greater understanding between our two Parliaments and strengthening people‑to‑people connections,” Speaker Birla noted on X. He said sharing legislative experiences and best practices can further deepen institutional cooperation. Birla also noted that the discussions covered parliamentary capacity building through the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE), as well as cooperation in technology and AI, education, healthcare, infrastructure, maritime connectivity, the Blue Economy, and digital development.
Over 73.50 lakh voters in Telangana face deletion
Gautam Adani welcomes US court’s decision, Hyderabad, Aug 10 (IANS) Over 73.50 lakh voters face the risk says will continue to build for our nation of deletion from the electoral “Throughout this challenging period, our faith in truth, fairness and the rule of law remained unwavering,” the Adani Group Chairman said in a post on X. “My deepest gratitude to those who never lost faith in us, in the system and in India’s capacity for justice,” said Gautam Adani. Separately, the court finalised a settlement between the Adanis and the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which will see the former pay the US government $18 million and formally settle the civil securities fraud charges against them. “We will continue doing what matters: building for our nation, creating value that outlasts us and serving a purpose larger than ourselves. That is our commitment,” Gautam Adani mentioned in the X post. Last month, the US Department of Justice told a federal court
NEWS FROM INDIA
rolls in Andhra Pradesh during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) as the deadline for submitting enumeration forms ended on Monday. According to the status report released by the Chief Electoral Officer on Monday evening, out of 3.3826,448 voters, 2,64,73,616 submitted their enumeration forms. The remaining 73,52,832 voters were found Absent, Shifted or Dead (ASD). The enumeration forms relating to these electors were reported as uncollectible. While the digitisation of enumeration forms across the state stands at 78.26 per cent, Hyderabad recorded the lowest digitisation at 58.89 per cent. Out of 47,36,669 electors in Hyderabad, digitisation of enumeration forms of only 27,89,214 voters has been completed. As many as 19.47 lakh voters in the state capital face deletion.
Yadadri Bhongiri district has completed 94.31 per cent of the digitisation and stood top among 33 districts in Telangana. The draft rolls will be published on August 17. The period of filing claims and objections will now be from August 17 to September 16. The notice phase (disposal of claims and objections) will be from August 17 to October 15. The final publication of rolls is scheduled for October 19. In neighbouring Andhra Pradesh, nearly 45 lakh voters have been deleted from the roll as the Election Commission on July 31 published the draft voter list following the SIR. According to the Chief Electoral Officer, deleted names include 22.30 lakh who had permanently shifted or were found absent. Names of as many as 15.22 lakh deceased have also been deleted, while 7.37 lakh voters were found enrolled at multiple places. Out of 4,16,27,694 electors, a total of 3,71,38,182 electors submitted their enumeration forms. BLOs did not find the remaining electors (44.89 lakh) or did not get back their enumeration forms because they became electors in other states or were not found in existence, or did not submit the form till July 24, or were not willing to register as an elector for some reason or other.
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NEWS FROM INDIA
India to get 11 new flying training organisations RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat to address New York event on August 29 to boost pilot training ecosystem
New Delhi, Aug 5 (IANS) The government on Wednesday awarded Letters of Intent (LoIs) for the establishment of 11 new Flying Training Organisations (FTOs) across seven Airports Authority of India (AAI) airports. According to the Civil Aviation Ministry, 41 Flying Training
Organisations are currently operating from 63 flying bases across the country. With the addition of these 11 new FTOs across seven AAI airports, India’s annual pilot training capacity is expected to increase by 750 cadets per year, providing a substantial boost to the domestic training ecosystem. “Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has emerged as one of the fastest-growing aviation markets in the world. Guided by the vision of Viksit Bharat and Aatmanirbhar Bharat, we are simultaneously expanding aviation infrastructure and building a future-ready
workforce to support the sector’s long-term growth,” said Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu. India has already witnessed the establishment of six new FTOs over the last two years. During this period, the number of training aircraft available with Indian FTOs has increased from 324 to 385, resulting in a 25 per cent rise in annual flying hours across the pilot training ecosystem. “This is not just expansion in numbers; it is a clear improvement in training capacity and operational utilisation,” said the minister.
Assam flood: Free textbooks, financial assistance to buy study materials, says CM Sarma
Guwahati, Aug 5 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Wednesday that the state government has stepped up relief and rehabilitation measures for flood-affected families, announcing that fresh textbooks have been dispatched to all affected districts and
financial assistance for students to purchase study materials will be launched on Thursday. Sharing updates after visiting flood-hit areas, the Chief Minister said that schools in the affected regions are scheduled to reopen on August 10 and efforts are underway to ensure that students can resume their education without further disruption. In a post on social media platform X, Chief Minister Sarma said, "Fresh textbooks have already been dispatched to all affected districts, while uniforms are on the way. Financial assistance for buying study materials will also be launched tomorrow and schools will reopen on Aug 10
-- these are information I shared with my young friends today." The Chief Minister also appealed to insurance companies to expedite the settlement of claims filed by flood victims, stressing that those who have suffered losses should receive assistance without unnecessary delay. "Insurance companies must expedite the settlement of floodrelated claims with urgency and compassion," Chief Minister Sarma said. He also assured people who do not have insurance coverage that the state government would extend all possible support to help them recover from the disaster.
TN to train 22,500 mechanics in EV servicing under new skill programme
Chennai, Aug 6 (IANS) The Tamil Nadu government will launch a specialised skill development programme to train 22,500 people, including 12,500 roadside two-wheeler and four-wheeler mechanics, in electric vehicle (EV) servicing over the next five years, as the state prepares its traditional automobile workforce for the transition to electric mobility. The initiative, announced in the 2026-27 Revised Budget, has been allocated Rs 3 crore in the current financial year. It aims to enable mechanics currently dependent on servicing petrol and diesel vehicles to acquire the technical skills needed to repair and maintain EVs and their battery systems. Labour Department sources said the proposal took shape
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following representations from conventional automobile mechanics during a pre-Budget meeting with Labour and Skill Development Minister J. Mohamed Farvas. The mechanics had sought specialised training to help them adapt to the rapid changes taking place in the automobile sector as electric two-wheelers and cars become increasingly common. Officials said roadside mechanics generally possess extensive practical experience in repairing internal combustion engine vehicles but often lack formal training in EV technology. Electric vehicles require a different set of skills involving battery packs, electric motors, power electronics, diagnostic systems and high-voltage components. The proposed programme will offer hands-on training in EV servicing, battery maintenance, fault diagnosis, safety procedures and the use of modern diagnostic equipment. Particular emphasis will be placed on safely handling high-voltage electrical systems,
officials said. The Labour Department is in the process of selecting a professional training partner to design and conduct the courses. Detailed guidelines covering eligibility, course duration, training centres and the number of beneficiaries in each batch will be issued before the scheme is formally launched. Officials said the programme forms part of the government’s wider effort to upgrade the skills of workers in accordance with emerging industrial requirements and ensure that traditional mechanics do not lose employment opportunities as the automobile industry moves towards cleaner technologies. The initiative also aligns with the ruling TVK’s Assembly election manifesto, which promised financial assistance of Rs 10,000 to help traditional mechanics undergo training and qualify as EV mechanics.
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Washington, August 11 (IANS) Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat will address a large gathering of Hindu Americans in New York City on August 29, marking a rare public appearance by him in the United States. The Universal Oneness Celebrations will bring together Hindu cultural, spiritual, service and community organisations from across the country, according to a statement issued by the organisers. The gathering will coincide with the festival of Raksha Bandhan. It will focus on unity, civic responsibility, social harmony and interfaith understanding. The event is being organised by the American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue, or AHEAD Forum, in partnership with hundreds of participating organisations. The organisers
described it as one of the largest and most diverse Hindu community gatherings held in the United States. Bhagwat, who has led the RSS since 2009, is expected to deliver the principal address. The organisers said his appearance was likely to attract national and international interest because he rarely speaks at large public events in the United States. The programme will also feature faith-based speakers and cultural performances aligned with the theme of universal unity. Details about other speakers, the venue and the timing of the programme have not yet been announced. Organisers said the event comes as questions of social cohesion, pluralism, civic participation and interfaith understanding are receiving increased attention across the United States. They said the gathering would highlight the growing role of Hindu Americans in public life and their contributions to education, healthcare, business, public service, philanthropy and civic engagement. The programme will present the ancient Indian philosophical principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — “The World Is One Family” — as a framework for dialogue, mutual respect, shared responsibility and service.
Arunachal has made remarkable development strides: Guv Parnaik
Itanagar, Aug 5 (IANS) Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen K.T. Parnaik (Retd.) on Wednesday said the state has made remarkable strides in development over the years and reaffirmed that Lok Bhavan would continue to remain accessible to citizens, students, entrepreneurs, artists, farmers and representatives of civil society, reflecting the institution’s commitment to public outreach and inclusive governance. The Governor inaugurated the new Governor Secretariat Building at Lok Bhavan in Itanagar on Wednesday. State Chief Minister Pema Khandu and senior officers of the state government were present on the occasion. Dedicating the building to the people of the state, Lt Gen Parnaik (Retd.) said that Lok Bhavan truly belongs to the people of Arunachal Pradesh. He emphasised that the institution
serves as a platform for dialogue, cultural exchange, youth engagement and public outreach, bringing governance closer to the people. He called upon the people to regard Lok Bhavan as a house of the people, dedicated to serving the welfare and progress of every citizen of Arunachal Pradesh. He added that every visitor to Lok Bhavan should feel a sense of pride and ownership, as it represents the collective hopes, achievements and rich cultural heritage of the state. Appreciating the excellent quality and architectural grandeur of the building, the Governor said that Arunachal Pradesh is steadily setting new benchmarks in public infrastructure development. He noted that the state has successfully created iconic institutions that combine functionality, aesthetics and modern engineering. Citing the magnificent Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly and the impressive High Court complex, he said these landmark structures have earned widespread appreciation for their design, utility and symbolic significance.
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INS Sudarshini enters Portugal, marking another trans-Atlantic milestone
Lisbon, Aug 14 (IANS) Indian Navy’s sail training ship INS Sudarshini entered Portugal on Friday following a 19-day trans-Atlantic passage from the United States, marking yet another milestone in the Lokayan 26 deployment, the Indian Navy stated on Friday.
“INS Sudarshini entered Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal, on 13 Aug 26, following a 19-day transAtlantic passage from Boston, marking another milestone in the Lokayan 26 deployment and reinforcing the enduring maritime partnership between India and Portugal,” the Indian Navy stated on X. “The Commanding Officer, INS Sudarshini, called on Comodoro Luis Nicholson Lavrador, Commander of the Azores Maritime Zone (COM CZMA). Planned interactions during the ship’s stay are centred
on professional engagements with the Portuguese Navy and cultural exchanges, enhancing professional exchange and camaraderie between the two navies,” it added. According to the Ministry of Defence, the arrival marked the successful completion of a challenging 19-day transoceanic passage across the Atlantic Ocean, originating from Boston, USA. “This is INS Sudarshini’s second Atlantic crossing, highlighting the endurance, grit and seamanship skills of her crew,” the ministry stated.
Balochistan observes ‘muted’ I-Day, BNM criticises Pakistan’s creation
Quetta, Aug 14 (IANS) Most shops in major commercial areas and markets across Balochistan, including Quetta, remained closed on August 14, local media reported. The Balochistan Post noted similar reports from several districts and towns, which saw reduced commercial activity and public movement. Residents in several areas reportedly remained indoors, while security was tightened around Pakistani forces’ camps,
government offices and other sensitive installations. The Balochistan Post said additional personnel were deployed at several locations and movement around key sites was closely monitored. It said government institutions and Pakistani forces held very limited ceremonies in selected locations in Quetta. Several security‑related incidents were also reported in different parts of the region. The Balochistan Post said, citing local sources, that multiple rockets and grenades were fired at an August 14 ceremony in Zarghoon Colony of Quetta, which resulted in approximately eight explosions. Citing reports, it said the ceremony was attended by a large
number of personnel from the Counter‑Terrorism Department (CTD) and Frontier Corps (FC). Meanwhile, the chairman of the Baloch National Movement (BNM), Naseem Baloch, issued a statement criticising the creation of Pakistan and associated the date with what he described as the loss of Balochistan’s independence. According to him, the regions that now constitute Pakistan did not see a major political movement for the country's creation, and he argued that Pakistan resulted from British colonial policy, the politics of religious representation, and political compromises. The BNM chairman claimed the Baloch nation paid the highest price for Partition.
UNSC terrorism monitors declare Red Fort blast work of Al-Qaida in Indian Subcontinent
United Nations, Aug 13 (IANS) A terrorism monitoring team of the Security Council has declared the deadly Red Fort suicide car bombing that killed 11 people the work of Al-Qaida in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS), which it warned is spreading its tentacles across the region. The report by the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team on terrorism to the Security Council said the attack last November “was officially attributed to AQIS”. It warned that AQIS is emerging
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as a decentralised terrorist organisation from a disparate group. AQIS “continued to evolve from a fragmented group into a regional terrorist entity; it established logistics and financial networks, working in decentralised small, scattered cells instead of large units”, the report said. It means that in a country like India where there is no scope for war-like operations, AQIS is adopting a tactic of urban guerrilla-like tactics. The report also expressed concern that AQIS is “trying to exploit Bangladesh to establish cells there”. Against this backdrop, the team warned that terrorist threats “intensified” in South Asia. After the democratically elected Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was forced into exile by an uprising in which Islamist elements played a leading role, fears have mounted over terrorist groups finding a fertile ground there. AQIS was founded in 2014 by Al-
Qaida leader Ayman al-Zawahiri. The team that produced the report helps the Security Council’s sanctions committees for Al-Qaida and the Islamic State (known in short as the 1267 Committee after the resolution setting it up), and for the Taliban. Based in New York, it comprises ten experts who track global terrorism threats from those groups and their affiliates and provide periodic reports and updates to help the committees decide on groups and individuals to be sanctioned for terrorism. The 1267 Committee does not have a chair because Pakistan wants to lead it and some members of the Council have reservations because of Islamabad’s links to some groups sanctioned by the panel, leading to a stand-off. In the absence of a chair, the team’s coordinator, Colin Smith, sent it directly to the Council's president in the last days of Colombia’s tenure in the chair for June.
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WORLD NEWS
Indian community celebrates Independence Day in Hong Kong
Hong Kong, Aug 15 (IANS) The Indian Association in Hong Kong has organised a gala evening reception to celebrate the 80th Independence Day, which was attended by the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) and India's Consul General Rajesh Naik. “An evening of honour, pride and celebration! Marking a historic milestone, Indian Association in Hong Kong organised a gala evening reception to celebrate India's 80th Independence Day in Hong Kong. The event was honoured by the esteemed presence of the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong SAR, John Lee Ka-chiu, alongside Consul General Rajesh Naik, the patron, and Vishal Melwani, the President of India Association," the Consul
General of India in Hong Kong said on Friday on social media platform X. In his address, the Chief Executive lauded the dynamic Indian community for their significant and long-standing contributions to Hong Kong's socio-economic fabric. "He also highlighted the steadily growing bilateral relations between India and Hong Kong, emphasising our shared focus on trade, economic growth, and enduring partnerships," the Consul noted on X. Delivering his remarks, Consul General Rajesh Naik reflected on India's rapid economic strides, technological innovations, and inclusive growth guided by the overarching vision of a 'Viksit Bharat'. He also commended the Indian community in Hong Kong for acting as a living bridge between the two regions and keeping India's rich cultural heritage thriving abroad, as he acknowledged the support extended by the Government of Hong Kong SAR and its top leadership.
Indian NCC delegation visits Presidential Palace in Vietnam, pays respects to Ho Chi Minh
Hanoi, Aug 13 (IANS) A 15-member National Cadet Corps (NCC) delegation, currently on a tour of Vietnam as part of the Annual Youth Exchange Programme, visited the Presidential Palace and the Mausoleum of President Ho Chi Minh in Hanoi on Thursday. “Indian Cadet Corps delegation visits and exchanges in Vietnam: The Indian Cadet Corps delegation, during their visit to Hanoi, Vietnam, paid respects at the Mausoleum of President Ho Chi Minh, laid a wreath, and expressed their reverence for Vietnam's beloved leader. Afterwards, the delegation visited the Presidential Palace, learning more about Vietnam's rich history and heritage,” the Indian Embassy in Vietnam wrote on X. According to the Embassy, the delegation also visited the Hanoi Children's Palace, where they had an exchange session with the Director regarding the Palace's activities, functions, and role in nurturing and educating the younger generation. “At the end of the day, the
delegation stopped by the Vietnam Military History Museum, where the cadets learned about Vietnam's remarkable military journey and history. A day of gratitude, learning, cultural exchange, and experiences — contributing to strengthening the friendship between Indian and Vietnamese youth,” the Embassy noted. On Wednesday, the delegation visited the Indian Embassy in Hanoi and interacted with Ambassador Tshering W Sherpa. “India-Vietnam defence cooperation. A delegation from the National Cadet Corps consisting of 15 members from India is visiting Vietnam as part of the Annual Youth Exchange Programme. During their visit to the Indian Embassy in Hanoi, the delegation had an exchange with Ambassador Tshering W. Sherpa, who provided information on the multifaceted, forwardlooking relationship between India and Vietnam, including the increasingly developing and robust defence cooperation,” the Embassy stated. It noted that the delegation will visit defence, historical, cultural, and educational facilities in Hanoi and Nha Trang, thereby contributing to enhancing understanding and friendship between the youth of the two countries.
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India, Indonesia discuss World leaders express solidarity for Colombia over strengthening defence cooperation, devastating earthquake which left scores dead enhancing expertise exchanges support and expressed solidarity. affected people.
Lucknow, Aug 13 (IANS) India and Indonesia held the 12th Armyto-Army Staff Talks (AAST) here, with the discussions focussed on strengthening defence cooperation, enhancing expertise exchanges, and deepening military-to-military ties, the Indian Army said. "12th India-Indonesia Armyto-Army Staff Talks, AAST, are being held in Lucknow from 11-13 Aug 2026. The Indian Army delegation held discussions with the Indonesian Army (TNI-AD) delegation, led by Brig Gen Ari Prasetya, VACOS Intelligence", the army's Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) said in a post on X. "Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral Defence Cooperation, expanding the scope of joint training, enhancing expertise exchanges and deepening military-to-military ties, while reaffirming the commitment to a strong IndiaIndonesia strategic partnership," it added. Last month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on a threeday visit to Indonesia. During the visit, PM Modi held talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, addressed the Indonesian Parliament and attended an Indian community programme.
During their meeting, PM Modi and President Subianto reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral ties and discussed issues of global and multilateral interests. The two leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. "The leaders reviewed the full spectrum of the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership encompassing trade and investment, defence and security, maritime cooperation, energy, healthcare and pharma, space, critical minerals and rare earths, culture, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. The two sides witnessed the exchange of several bilateral documents, including maritime safety and security, space cooperation, defence, steel supply chain, rare earths, health, agriculture, and science and technology, among others. PM Modi and President Subianto jointly inaugurated the UNESCO World Heritage Prambanan Temple restoration project in Yogyakarta. In May, the military exercise Partnership of Regional Armies for Growth and Transformation in IOR (PRAGATI) 2026 was conducted in Meghalaya, reinforcing collective commitment towards peace, stability, and security in the Indian Ocean Region, the Indian Army said.
US CENTCOM launches first-ever multinational attack drone task force
Tampa (US) Aug 14 (IANS) US Central Command (CENTCOM) on Thursday announced that it's going to establish the first-ever multi-domain, multinational attack drone task force. According to a statement by CENTCOM on X, the unit will be called Task Force Falcon Strike and will employ oneway attack drones consisting of unmanned systems from above, on, and below the sea, operated by military support staff from the United States and regional partners. It said that the Falcon Strike’s launch occurs nine months after CENTCOM established Task Force Scorpion Strike, the US military's first dedicated one-way attack drone squadron in the Middle East. “Scorpion Strike rapidly achieved key operational milestones, including the first-ever launch of an aerial attack drone from a US Navy warship last December. The
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squadron also employed oneway unmanned aerial systems during Operation Epic Fury and during strikes on Iranian port facilities in July using unmanned attack vessels at sea,” noted the statement. “Task Force Falcon Strike will expand on Scorpion Strike’s success given the tremendous innovation happening among our regional allies and partners,” said Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander. “Integrating and deploying our new capabilities together will help us rapidly realise the new possibilities that are on the horizon.” The statement said that CENTCOM has initiated the process of consulting with and officially inviting regional partners. “As regional partners formally join, Task Force Falcon Strike will scale attack drone capabilities across the Middle East into a unified multi-domain, multinational deterrent,” it emphasised.
Paris, Aug 10 (IANS) Leaders across the world express solidarity and support for the people of Colombia as the South American nation was hit with a 7.4 magnitude earthquake, which left several areas devastated, with scores dead as the search and rescue operations go on. French President Immannuel Macron stated that Colombia can count on France’s friendship and
"In the face of the terrible earthquake that has struck Colombia, I extend, on behalf of France, my most sincere thoughts to the Colombian people. I think of the victims, their families, the injured, and all those who have been affected by this disaster. Our solidarity also goes to the rescue teams and all those who are working, with courage, to assist the affected populations. In this ordeal, Colombia can count on our friendship and our support," Macron wrote on X. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed solidarity and support and called on people around the world to support the
"Terrible news about the earthquake in western Colombia, which also affected neighbouring Ecuador. As of now, at least 25 people have been reported dead, and there are people trapped under the rubble. Our condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and to everyone affected. Any loss of life is tragic. We stand in full support and solidarity with the people of Colombia and everyone who has been affected by this disaster. We call on everyone around the world who can support the affected people and countries right now to step up and help," Zelensky stated on X.
Sergio Gor meets FS Vikram Misri in Delhi
New Delhi, Aug 10 (IANS) United States Ambassador to India Sergio Gor on Monday met Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in New Delhi, amid ongoing diplomatic engagement between the two countries over various bilateral matters. “Always good to meet with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri,” Ambassador Gor wrote on X, sharing a glimpse of the meeting. No other details regarding the meeting were immediately available. The meeting happened against the backdrop of continuing engagements between India‑US bilateral ties and ongoing regional and global developments. On Saturday evening, Prime Minister Narendra Modi
received a phone call from US Vice‑President JD Vance, during which both discussed ways to deepen further the India‑US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership across key areas. PM Modi also congratulated JD Vance and his wife, Usha Vance, on the birth of their son and conveyed best wishes to the family. “Received a phone call from US Vice‑President JD Vance. We discussed ways to further deepen India‑US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership across key areas. Warmly congratulated him and the Second Lady on the birth of their son and conveyed best wishes to the entire family,” PM Modi said on X. According to a statement by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), PM Modi and JD Vance noted the sustained momentum in high‑level engagements and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening cooperation in various sectors.
“They noted the sustained momentum in the high‑level engagements and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening cooperation in trade, defence, critical and emerging technologies, energy security and critical minerals. They also exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest,” the PMO said. In July this year, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar agreed to accelerate work on key defence agreements and conclude an interim bilateral trade deal that Washington said is “almost complete”, signalling fresh momentum in the strategic partnership between the two countries. The two leaders met in Manila on the sidelines of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ meetings, where they also reviewed developments in the Middle East and the Indo‑Pacific, according to a US State Department readout.
India counters ‘myths’ over FCRA Bill
Washington, Aug 10 (IANS) India has pushed back against what it called “misunderstandings” surrounding its proposed FCRA amendment, saying the legislation would strengthen oversight of foreign funding without shutting down lawful civil society. India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, issued a detailed “Myth vs. Reality check” on Sunday on the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026. “There are many misunderstandings in the media and in civil society about the proposed Foreign Contribution
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(Regulation) Amendment Bill(FCRA), 2026,” Kwatra said in a series of posts on X. Rejecting claims that India was framing a new law to cut off foreign aid to civil society, Kwatra said regulation of foreign financial flows in public and political spaces was a sovereign measure driven by national security concerns. He said such regulation was an accepted feature of modern governance in democracies around the world. “The fact is that the law does not forbid Indians from receiving foreign donations or shut down law abiding civil society,” Kwatra said. “Tens of thousands of associations are registered under FCRA and routinely receive foreign funds for health, education, disaster relief, research and humanitarian work.” India enacted its first FCRA in 1976. It was replaced by a
more modern framework in 2010 and strengthened through amendments in 2016, 2018 and 2020, the ambassador said. “The 2026 Bill and Rules are the next step in the same direction: more transparency, better governance, clearer rules,” he said. Kwatra also rejected claims that the FCRA had adversely affected NGOs and charitable organisations and that the latest amendment would impose further restrictions on their operations. He said foreign contributions received by registered organisations had risen from roughly $1.2 billion in 2010-11 to $2.67 billion in 2024-25. India has more than three million NGOs, but only 14,450 hold FCRA registration, he said. The overwhelming majority of civil society organisations are therefore outside the law’s ambit.
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Global group voices concern over two missing Colombia quake death toll rises Pakistani journalists who reported on PoK unrest to 132, over 570 injured
New York, Aug 5 (IANS) A leading international press freedom group on Wednesday called on Pakistani authorities to immediately release journalists Razi Tahir and Muhammad Saif, who were reportedly taken from their Islamabad office by men in police uniforms, following their reporting on the ongoing unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), where authorities have imposed an internet blackout and severe restrictions on press freedom. The unrest in PoK has claimed
more than 50 lives and left hundreds injured over the last few days, drawing international condemnation over the human rights abuses by Pakistani forces and the deteriorating state of media freedom in the region. Citing a social media post by Razi’s colleague Harmeet Singh, and a local journalist, who spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal, the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) said that Tahir and Saif, both independent Pakistani journalists who publish through Tahir’s popular social media channels, were seized and taken to an undisclosed location on August 1. “Both Singh and the journalist said that the men who seized the pair were wearing police
uniforms. However, police in Islamabad have not acknowledged the journalists’ detention and their whereabouts remain unknown,” the organisation added. Expressing grave concern over the incident, CPJ AfghanistanPakistan Representative Waliullah Rahmani said that the disappearance of Tahir and Saif “appears to be part of an escalating effort to silence independent reporting” on PoK amid severe press freedom violations in the region. “Pakistani authorities must immediately disclose the journalists’ whereabouts, ensure their due-process rights, and release them unconditionally,” he added.
Juvenile, unbecoming of diplomatic communique: Bangladesh Foreign Ministry condemned for remarks against India
New Delhi/Dhaka, Aug 6 (IANS) Several former Ministers from Bangladesh have strongly criticised the Tarique Rahmanled government over its remarks targeting former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and India, describing the administration's political rhetoric as "juvenile" and accusing it of abandoning diplomatic decorum while attempting to suppress dissenting voices. The criticism came after Hasina addressed the media virtually in New Delhi. Hasina, who has been
living in exile in India for the past two years, also said that she would return to her home country by the year-end. The BNP-led Bangladesh government described Hasina as an "absconding convicted genocider", a "mass murderer" and the head of a "mafia enterprise" while referring to the anniversary of the 2024 July Revolution. The government also urged India to extradite the former Prime Minister and termed the scheduled event featuring her an affront to Bangladesh's sovereignty. The former Ministers also criticised the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)-led government for targeting India over the matter, drawing comparisons between Sheikh Hasina's current address from abroad and Tarique Rahman's own political activities while he
was living in exile. They further objected to the language used in the statement issued by Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, describing it as undiplomatic and comparing it to what they termed a child's sulking letter addressed to India. Former Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Mohammad Ali Arafat said the tone adopted by the Foreign Ministry was inappropriate for an official institution of the state. "The statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs carries a tone of juvenile anger that is wholly unbecoming of a diplomatic communique or any state institution. While an individual may speak out of petulance or personal resentment, an institution must uphold composure, professionalism, and dignity," Arafat said.
Bogota, Aug 11 (IANS) The death toll from a magnitude-7.4 earthquake that struck western Colombia on Monday has risen to 132, with more than 570 others injured, the Colombian government said in its latest update. Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella said in Bogota that the quake damaged 1,575 homes and infrastructure at six airports, where commercial flight operations have been suspended, reports Xinhua news agency. The Colombian government earlier Monday declared a state of national disaster to respond to the impact of the earthquake. According to the Colombian Geological Service, the quake struck at 7:34 a.m. local time in western Colombia. Its epicenter was near San Jose del Palmar, in the department of Choco, at a depth of 96 km. The association said it is maintaining close contact with the capitals of affected departments and communicating with local mayors and their teams to follow the latest developments, assess damage and identify the most urgent relief needs. Leaders across the world express solidarity and support for the
US removes sanctions on Iraqi airline, denies easing Iran sanctions
Iran, Oman finalising agreement on new Hormuz Strait shipping arrangements: Iran’s Dy Foreign Minister
Tehran, Aug 6 (IANS) Iran and Oman are close to finalising an agreement on new arrangements for commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, under which the temporary northern and southern routes will be replaced by a new single route passing through Iran's territorial waters for two to four months, said a senior Iranian diplomat. In an interview with the official news agency IRNA published on Wednesday (local time), Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs Kazem Gharibabadi said the two sides
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had reached an in-principle agreement on almost all relevant issues, including the entry and exit route map, following more than three weeks of consultations. He said the potential agreement did not mean that the strait would be reopened completely, reports Xinhua news agency. Gharibabadi rejected US claims of negotiations with Iran, saying Tehran had received messages from Washington expressing readiness to return to commitments under the peace memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the two sides in June. Meanwhile, an informed source close to the Iranian negotiating team told semi-official Fars news agency that the reopening of the strait hinges on tangible US implementation of its
commitments, adding that the US Treasury Department's removal of sanctions on an Iraqi airline on Wednesday was unrelated to the Iran-US MoU. Iran tightened its control over the Strait of Hormuz on February 28, barring safe passage of vessels belonging to or affiliated with Israel and the United States, following their joint strikes on Iranian territory. The US military launched multiple waves of strikes against Iranian targets last month, saying they were in response to Iranian attacks on vessels in the strait and aimed at "degrading Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping." Iran responded with missile and drone attacks targeting US military bases and facilities in the region.
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people of Colombia. French President Immannuel Macron stated that Colombia can count on France’s friendship and support and expressed solidarity. "In the face of the terrible earthquake that has struck Colombia, I extend, on behalf of France, my most sincere thoughts to the Colombian people. I think of the victims, their families, the injured, and all those who have been affected by this disaster. Our solidarity also goes to the rescue teams and all those who are working, with courage, to assist the affected populations. In this ordeal, Colombia can count on our friendship and our support," Macron wrote on X. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed solidarity and support and called on people around the world to support the affected people. "Terrible news about the earthquake in western Colombia, which also affected neighbouring Ecuador. As of now, at least 25 people have been reported dead, and there are people trapped under the rubble. Our condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and to everyone affected. Any loss of life is tragic. We stand in full support and solidarity with the people of Colombia and everyone who has been affected by this disaster. We call on everyone around the world who can support the affected people and countries right now to step up and help," Zelensky stated on X.
Washington, Aug 6 (IANS) The US Department of the Treasury has removed Iraqi commercial airline Fly Baghdad and two of its aircraft from its sanctions list linked to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Fly Baghdad Airlines, also known as Iraq Express, and two of its Boeing 737 aircraft have been deleted from the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List, said a statement from the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the US Department of the Treasury on Wednesday (local time). Fly Baghdad Airlines was originally designated in January 2024, on the allegation that it provided support to the IRGC's Quds Force and its proxy militias in Iraq, Syria and Lebanon. The change was made after going through an internal reconsideration process,
according to an official with the department, reports Xinhua news agency. "This is not indicative of any shift in US policy toward the Government of Iran, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Quds Force, any designated terrorist organisation, or any person who supports or acts on behalf of any of these," multiple media outlets quoted the anonymous official as saying. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Tuesday (local time) that a deal with Iran could be reached within days to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The United States and Iran are now holding talks on reopening the Strait of Hormuz after the two sides paused attacks over the weekend. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei has said that Iran and Oman have made progress in talks on establishing a safe commercial shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz. He also mentioned that Tehran has no plans for senior officials to visit Pakistan or Qatar this weekend.
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Aug 16-31, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 1
Two UAE tankers attacked while transiting Hormuz Strait: Report
US has used ‘almost all’ interceptors, most Tomahawks in Iran war, warns Democratic Senator
Abu Dhabi, Aug 14 (IANS) Two vessels belonging to Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) were attacked while transiting the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday evening, local authorities and media said early Friday. In a statement posted on social media, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the Iranian attacks, stressing the necessity for Iran to cease attacks. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) underscored that this attack constitutes a flagrant violation of UN Security Council resolution 2817, which affirmed the importance of freedom of navigation, and rejected the targeting of commercial vessels or the obstruction of international maritime routes. The Ministry emphasised that targeting commercial shipping
and using the Strait of Hormuz as a tool of economic coercion or blackmail represents acts of piracy by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps, and constitutes a direct threat to the stability of the region, its peoples, and global energy security. "The UAE further stressed the need for Iran to halt these unprovoked attacks, ensure its full commitment to an immediate cessation of all hostilities, and the complete and unconditional reopening of the Strait of Hormuz in order to safeguard regional security..." the Ministry added. The company confirmed that no injuries have been reported, and the situation has been brought under control, Xinhua reported quoting the official Emirates News Agency. In a statement, ADNOC stressed the importance of protecting the safety and well-being of seafarers, while safeguarding freedom of navigation and maritime security. The report did not provide further details on the specific vessels involved or the extent of damage caused by the attacks. The state-owned ADNOC is one of the largest oil and gas producers in the world, serving as the primary driver of the UAE's economy.
Iran to continue path of peace if US builds trust: Iranian President
Tehran, Aug 9 (IANS) Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran will keep pursuing the path of peace under the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed recently with the United States, provided that Washington helps build an atmosphere of trust. Iran is trying to move on the "path of peace" based on the "paragraphs" in the MoU, Pezeshkian said on Saturday at a press conference, adding, "Now is the best time to reach an agreement, as there is solidarity, power and unity in the country." "We are determined to ... use the MoU as the basis provided that the United States lets go of the atmosphere of distrust it has created, and an atmosphere of trust is formed," he said. He highlighted reciprocity in negotiations with the United States, saying Iran will match its commitments to the level of US compliance, Xinhua news agency reported. If the other side seeks to resort to force, Iran will not acquiesce to that, he said, adding that the basis for Iran's action will eventually be Supreme Leader Mojtaba
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Khamenei's decisions. Earlier, Iranian President reaffirmed the country's commitment to pursuing dialogue to safeguard its rights, while emphasising that Tehran will not be forced to surrender. Pezeshkian made the remarks in an interview, published on the website of his office on Friday (local time), defending the Iranian government's decision to enter negotiations with the United States and sign the memorandum of understanding (MoU) on ending the war. Pezeshkian said Iran remains committed to its obligations as long as the United States fulfils its commitments under the MoU, adding, "Wherever they fail to fulfil their commitment, we have no obligation to continue." Earlier this week, Pezeshkian denied that he was stepping down and said he would "continue his work resolutely." The remarks came amid rumoured "divisions" within Iran's leadership over the MoU. In June, Iran and the United States signed the MoU on ending the war on all fronts, including Lebanon. The two sides were scheduled to hold negotiations within a 60-day period to reach a final agreement, but recent escalation in the region has left the talks' fate uncertain.
Washington, Aug 10 (IANS) Democratic Senator Chris Murphy said that the United States had used “almost all” its interceptors and most of its Tomahawk missiles in the Iran war, warning that depleted stockpiles had left the country and its allies in a dangerous position. Murphy, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, made
the assertion as the Pentagon seeks another $67 billion in defence funding, partly to replace weapons expended during nearly five months of fighting. “We have used up almost all of our interceptors, the majority of our tomahawks,” the Connecticut senator told NBC News’ “Meet the Press.” “We have put the United States in a dangerous position. We have allowed Russia and China to imagine things that they couldn’t have imagined early because of our inability to defend ourselves and our allies,” he said. President Donald Trump has acknowledged uneven supplies
IRAN WAR
among different categories of US munitions. “We have certain types of munitions that are very powerful, that we have unlimited virtual unlimited supply. We have others where it’s a little bit tighter,” Trump said in remarks aired by the programme. Murphy said he would oppose more money while the war continued. But he left the door open to financing a replenishment effort once the conflict ended. “If the war comes to an end, if the president ends this war, then, yes, of course, I and my colleagues will be ready to provide the funding to replenish the stores of munitions that have been spent,” he said.
Iranian parliamentary committee approves Hormuz Strait security action plan
Tehran, Aug 10 (IANS) The Iranian parliament's national security and foreign policy committee has approved the general outlines of a strategic action plan to "ensure the security and sustainable progress" of the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf, the official news agency IRNA
reported. The plan was discussed at a committee meeting and approved without opposition, IRNA quoted committee spokesperson Hassan Qashqavi as saying. Qashqavi said lawmakers reviewed submissions from relevant Iranian bodies before endorsing the plan's general framework, Xinhua news agency reported. The legislation was formally introduced to the parliament on July 13, according to IRNA. Iran tightened its grip on the strait on February 28, barring safe passage of vessels belonging to or affiliated with Israel and the United States following their joint strikes on Iranian territory. In June, Iran and the United
States signed a memorandum of understanding on ending the war on all fronts, including Lebanon. The two sides were scheduled to hold negotiations within a 60-day period to reach a final agreement, but recent escalation in the region has left the talks' fate uncertain. In July, the US military launched multiple waves of strikes on Iranian targets, saying they were in response to Iranian attacks on vessels in the strait and aimed at "degrading Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping." Iran responded with missile and drone strikes on US military bases and facilities in the region. Iran and Oman have been negotiating since a few weeks ago to reach an agreement on the designation of a new route in the strait for safe maritime traffic.
US weapons stocks run low amid Iran war
Washington, Aug 9 (IANS) The US is running considerably low on critical missile interceptors and other munitions after months of war with Iran, according to a former US Defence Secretary, as concerns grow over America's ability to replenish weapons stocks quickly and maintain military readiness against other potential threats. Mark Esper, who served as Defence Secretary during President Donald Trump's first term, said shortages of Patriot and Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) interceptors were serious and warned that rebuilding stocks would take time. "It is a serious situation that goes back to the end of the Cold War and decisions we made between them and then with the onset of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars,"
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Esper told ABC News on Sunday. "And frankly, it accelerated during the Biden administration when we were expending munitions or giving munitions to Ukraine. And it's, of course, in the last six, seven months, it's really taken a toll that we've now find ourselves considerably low with regard to interceptors such as Patriot and THAAD, and to some ground attack weapons as well." Esper said his biggest concern was China and the message that depleted American stockpiles could send about US deterrence. "When I look at the world, I'm most concerned about China and the messages it may be sending there and the deterrent effect of our munition stockpiles, and more importantly of our defence industrial base," he added. The Pentagon is seeking an additional $67 billion in defence funding, in part to replenish depleted stockpiles, according to NBC News. Democratic Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut said he would oppose additional funding
while the Iran war continued, but would support replenishing US arsenals once the conflict ended. "We have used up almost all of our interceptors, the majority of our Tomahawks. We have put the United States in a dangerous position," Murphy added. "We have allowed Russia and China to imagine things that they couldn't have imagined early because of our inability to defend ourselves and our allies." Republican Senator Jim Banks of Indiana, meanwhile, defended Trump's handling of the Iran war and said the President's legacy would be tied to preventing Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. "His legacy is going to be largely wrapped up in ensuring that Iran never has a nuclear weapon," Banks told NBC News. He said the US military had wiped out 85 per cent of Iran's ballistic missiles and damaged its defence industrial base. He also credited Trump's naval blockade with crippling Iran's economy.
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Aug 16-31, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 1
World’s largest democracy and fastest growing major economy, India fills us with awe: Australian PM
PM Modi has brought strong national-interest focus to India’s foreign policy: Scott Morrison
Canberra, Aug 15 (IANS) Extending his heartfelt wishes to India on the country's 80th Independence Day, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Saturday lauded the country’s remarkable progress and its global stature as the world’s largest democracy and fastestgrowing major economy. “I send my best wishes to all who are celebrating India’s 80th Independence Day. The path to a free and independent India was anything but easy, but through the sheer power of will, belief and determination, its dawning heralded a bright new beginning filled with hope. In the eight decades since that most extraordinary of days, India has gone from strength to strength”, read a statement issued by the Australian PM. “Today, as the world’s largest democracy and fastest growing major economy, India fills us with awe at the scale of its
achievements and the vastness of its potential,” he added. Albanese reflected on the significance of the occasion for the Indian-Australian community, highlighting the enduring bonds between the two countries and the community’s contribution to strengthening bilateral ties. “I know that the Indian Australian community will be reflecting on the past 80 years with pride, celebrating the land of your long and rich heritage while also looking to a future that abounds with promise. Together we celebrate all that connects our nations. From our strong economic and strategic partnerships to the immense contributions of the vibrant Indian Australian community to our country,” said the Australian PM. Recalling Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Australia last month, Albanese underscored the strong and deepening partnership between the two countries. “As I said to my friend Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his recent visit, our relationship has never been more consequential, a truth that was on full display amid the energetic welcome he received here. The profound significance of the partnership between our nations is wonderfully reflected in the strength of the Indian Australian community,” Albanese stated.
Australian outbreak of H5N1 bird flu surpasses 200 cases
Melbourne, Aug 13 (IANS) The Australian island state of Tasmania on Thursday reported its first confirmed case of H5N1 avian influenza, meaning the deadly strain has now been detected in every state. Gavin Pearce, Tasmania's minister for primary industries and water, told reporters that testing of a migratory brown skua found dead on the state's northwest coast had returned a positive reading for the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza. He said that the bird was found by Parks and Wildlife Service staff who have been conducting active surveillance of coastal areas. It makes Tasmania the sixth and final Australian state to report a case of H5N1, which was first detected on the mainland in Western Australia (WA) in June. Pearce said that authorities in the state have been working
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with industry, wildlife and biosecurity experts to strengthen surveillance, preparedness and response arrangements. "I want to reassure Tasmanians that we are prepared to respond to H5 bird flu, and we will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available," he said. Australia's Agriculture Minister Julie Collins on Tuesday announced that the federal government has acquired an initial 1,500 vials of the H5N1 vaccine that will be administered to high-risk birds in captivity, Xinhua news agency reported. Tasmania's Environment Minister Guy Barnett said on Thursday that the state would begin vaccinating up to 350 critically endangered orange-bellied parrots in captivity once approval was received. Avian influenza A(H5N1) is a subtype of influenza virus that infects birds and mammals, including humans in rare instances. The goose/Guangdonglineage of H5N1 avian influenza viruses first emerged in 1996 and have been causing outbreaks in birds since then.
Canberra, Aug 13 (IANS) Lauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former Australian PM Scott Morrison said that the Indian leader has brought a strong national-interest orientation and a pragmatic approach to India’s foreign policy, with External Affairs Minister (EAM) S
Jaishankar also playing a key role in carrying forward the vision. Morrison reflected on the trajectory of Indian foreign policy during an interview with ItalianIndian entrepreneur and analyst Vas Shenoy as New Delhi prepares to hold the 80th Independence Day celebrations on Saturday. The former Australian PM emphasised that India is now increasingly focused on realising its potential while being guided by its national interests. "India continues to honour its independence and its independent settings, but not
NATIONAL NEWS
slavishly, not for its own sake. Its interests drive it into closer engagement with the United States, Australia, Japan, Korea and many other countries. But that is not done to the exclusion of its other relationships. I’ve found Prime Minister Modi quite unapologetic about the fact that he’ll pick up the phone and talk to whoever he wants to. He’ll go to whichever country he needs to in order to advance India’s national interest. That’s what every leader of every country does: advance the national interest,” said Morrison.
Indian, Australian Navies discuss enhancing operational interoperability, capability-building cooperation
Canberra, Aug 12 (IANS) The Indian and Australian navies held discussions on strengthening operational interoperability and expanding bilateral cooperation in capability building and training, with a focus on further deepening maritime collaboration between the two countries. The discussions were held during the 17th Navy-to-Navy Staff talks between the Indian Navy and the Royal Australian Navy in Australia's Sydney from August 11-12. In a post on X, the Indian Navy Spokesperson stated, "The 17th Indian Navy–Royal Australian Navy Navy-to-Navy Staff Talks were held in Sydney from 11-12 Aug 26, co-chaired by RAdm Sachin Reuben Sequeira, ACNS
(FCI), and RAdm Christopher Smith, Commander Australian Fleet. Building on the strong India-Australia maritime partnership, discussions focused on enhancing operational interoperability, increasing the complexity of bilateral exercises, and advancing cooperation in capability building and training." "The engagement reaffirmed the shared commitment of Indian Navy and Australian Navy towards a stronger and more interoperable maritime partnership," it added. Earlier, Indian Air Force (IAF) participated in the Exercise Pitch Black 26 at the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base Darwin in Australia from July 20 to August 7. The IAF contingent comprised highly skilled Air Warriors, including pilots, engineers, technicians, controllers, and other subject-matter experts. "Mission accomplished. Skies mastered. Partnerships strengthened. Ex Pitch Black 26 concluded with intense
multinational air operations as the Indian Air Force operated side-by-side with partner Air Forces — elevating interoperability, exchanging hard-earned expertise, and refining combat readiness under realistic conditions. Every mission and interaction delivered mutual gains in tactics, procedures, and professional excellence," Indian Air Force - Media Coordination Centre posted on X. Pitch Black is the Royal Australian Air Force's biennial international air combat exercise, and this year more than 2,500 personnel and 100 aircraft from 21 partner nations have showcased their ability to work together for the past three weeks, according to the statement released by the Australian Government Defence Department. This year, Japan Air Self-Defence Force F-35A Lightning II aircraft and Indian Air Force Rafale aircraft participated in the exercise for the first time.
Five dead in fiery head-on collision on Australian highway
Canberra, Aug 6 (IANS) Five people have died after two vehicles collided head-on and burst into flames on a highway in Australia's Northern Territory (NT). NT Police, Fire and Emergency Services said that two vehicles became fully engulfed in flames following a head-on collision on the Stuart Highway around 12:50 p.m. local time on Wednesday. A statement on Wednesday evening said that at least four people had died, but an update issued on Thursday said a fifth body was located during the ongoing examination of the scene, reports Xinhua news agency.
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Police said that initial investigations indicate that a utility was travelling north when it crossed onto the incorrect side of the highway and collided head-on with a van, causing catastrophic damage to both vehicles. Members of the public attempted to render assistance but could not extricate the occupants of either vehicle. The deceased have been identified as a 23-year-old male driver of the utility and his passengers, a 36-year-old man and two women aged 32 and 23, as well as a 69-year-old woman who was the sole occupant of the van. There were no survivors. Detective Senior Sergeant Michael Schumacher said on Thursday that witnesses told investigators that the utility was travelling at excessive speed and overtaking dangerously prior to the collision. "This is an incredibly tragic incident that has claimed five
lives and will have a devastating impact on multiple families and the wider community," he said. The Stuart Highway is one of Australia's longest highways from the NT capital of Darwin on the far north coast to Port Augusta on the south coast. This comes against the backdrop of another similar incident in Australia's Queensland, where a woman died, and four other people have been hospitalised following a collision caused by a stolen car. According to the officials, a utility was stolen around 1:10 p.m. on Wednesday before colliding with two other vehicles in the suburbs of Cairns, 1,400 km north of Brisbane, around 15 minutes later. The 25-year-old female driver of one of the vehicles died at the scene. Four other people were taken to the hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries.
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Aug 16-31, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 1
From the editor’s desk
India and Africa: Relations beyond rhetorics
A new Indian Australia A
ustralia’s 2026 Census is more than an exercise in counting people, households and homes. For the Indian community, it comes at a particularly important moment. India has emerged as one of Australia’s largest sources of migrants, and the community has grown well beyond the traditional definition of a migrant population. The Census offers an opportunity to understand not simply how large the Indian Australian population has become, but how fundamentally it is changing. The numbers will matter. They will show how many people were born in India, how many identify with Indian ancestry, which languages are spoken at home, where Indian Australians live and how households have evolved since the previous Census. But the real significance of the exercise will lie in what those figures reveal about the community’s place in contemporary Australia. The transformation is already evident. According to the Department of Home Affairs, more than 916,000 India-born people were living in Australia in June 2024, making India the country’s second-largest source of migrants after the United Kingdom. But birthplace is only one measure of a community. An Australian-born child of Indian parents may have a very different experience from someone who arrived from India recently, even though both may identify strongly with their Indian heritage. That distinction is becoming increasingly important. Australia’s Indian community now includes long-established families, skilled migrants, international students who have settled permanently, entrepreneurs, professionals, academics and Australianborn generations. It also encompasses people from virtually every part of India — Punjabis, Bengalis, Tamils, Gujaratis, Malayalis, Telugus, Marathis and many others — as well as people of mixed heritage and Australians whose connection with India is primarily through ancestry. The Census is one of the few national exercises capable of capturing that complexity. It also provides information that can influence practical policy decisions. Knowing where Indian Australians are settling can help governments plan schools, healthcare, public transport and community services. Understanding the languages spoken at home can inform education, communication and broadcasting. Knowing the
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size of younger and secondgeneration populations can help policymakers understand how community priorities are changing. Those priorities are unlikely to remain the same as those of the first generation. For many recent migrants, questions of employment, housing, settlement and recognition of qualifications may be central. For Australianborn generations, the concerns may increasingly involve identity, cultural continuity, education, social mobility and representation. The growth of the community therefore requires a more sophisticated understanding of what it means to be Indian Australian. This is also why the Census should not be reduced to a population contest. A larger community does not automatically mean a more influential or cohesive one. Population growth needs to be considered alongside participation in education, employment, business, public institutions and civic life. It is equally important to understand whether opportunities are reaching different sections of the community and whether the benefits of Australia's multicultural model are being shared broadly. The 2026 Census itself reflects Australia's changing social landscape. For the first time, Australians aged 16 and over have been invited to voluntarily provide information about sexual orientation and gender. The Australian Bureau of Statistics has said the new questions will help improve understanding of the population and support better planning of services. That broader approach to demographic information is important. A diverse country requires data capable of reflecting its diversity. For the Indian community, however, the Census is also an opportunity for introspection. The eventual figures should not simply be used to celebrate population growth. They should prompt questions about what the community contributes, where gaps remain and how its relationship with Australian society is evolving. India’s relationship with Australia has deepened significantly across education, trade, technology, defence and people-to-people ties. The growth of the Indian Australian population has been an important part of that transformation. A generation is now emerging that is comfortable identifying with both countries without seeing those identities as contradictory.
By Ambassador Anil Trigunayat
I
ndia and Africa have a historic and umbilical relationship. It makes a good talking point during speeches but will need an objective assessment of the extent and depth of our engagement to stand scrutiny for devising better policy choices. It is also a fact that India has consistently, even if occasionally in ad hoc manner, engaged with the African countries. It emerged as a strong voice for their emancipation from the colonial yoke and from then on through NonAlignment Movement (NAM) and has stood for and advocated the core concerns of the African countries especially the Least developed Countries (LDCs) in the international fora be it GATT/ WTO, UN/CHOGM or the Climate Change negotiations and now in the reformed UNSC. In her G20 presidency in 2023 India made sure that the African Union (AU) becomes a permanent member of the G20. This has been widely appreciated and earned India an immeasurable affection quotient across Africa. Besides India through its extensive capacity building assistance and “share and care” approach helped the continent a great deal in creating skilled manpower, modern institutions and infrastructure both in the field of education and defence. Indian teachers and professors were widely respected especially by those who studied during the 1960s to 1980s. Unfortunately, this very effective mode of engagement dried out and needs to be revived. Several African leaders fondly recall their Indian teachers even after 40-50 years. Dozens of military officers trained in India rose to become Heads of government and Heads of State in their countries. Thousands of Africans have been trained under the fully funded ITEC programme and have risen to responsible positions. Another important capacity building effort is to train about 80 women every year to work on solar panels who are fondly called as “Solar Mamas” as they, in return, electrify the communities and at least 50 houses each. Now technological competency initiatives in sunrise sectors through Centers of excellence and bilateral, regional and sub regional and trilateral formats with likeminded countries like France, Japan and UAE have been mooted across the economic spectrum. One of the most important connectivity and capacity building programme launched by India pursuant to the vision of former President APJ Abdul Kalam
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was the Pan-Africa e-network initiative that focused on tele -medicine, tele-education and e-governance or connectivity among Heads of State across 48 countries. It entailed five Indian ace universities offering courses and 12 super specialty hospitals providing consultations and medical education and was fully funded by the Indian government under NEPAD. The programme has been further upgraded and expanded under the Modi government under the rubric of e-Vidya Bharti and e-Arogya Bharti. Reportedly over 7000 students completed their studies. Since the 1950s India has been encouraging African students through scholarships for higher education, training and capacity building in Indian Institutions. According to estimates currently there are more than 55,000 students from various African countries in India. India also has a long history of cooperation in the defence capacity building in various African countries and participating in the UN Peace Keeping Operations starting in 1960 in Congo. Their role has been broadly appreciated especially in preventing genocide in South Sudan. Similarly, Indian women police personnel did a remarkable job in Liberia that was rather unique and President Sirleaf was all praise for them. Currently India trains a large number of Africans not only in its defence institutions but also in the peace keeping operations and maneuverability in addition to conducting counter terrorism and insurgency operations. India had set up National Defence colleges in several countries including Nigeria. It would also be useful to align our engagement with the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) devised by the then Organisation of African Unity (OAU) to deal with African problems like genocide and ethnic cleansing. India has also been very active in anti -piracy operations on the East Coast of Africa especially Somalia and Gulf of Aden to Mozambique Channel to ensure free lines of trade and communications. The Indian navy successfully escorted around 2500 vessels. Like the US Africom, New Delhi needs to also strategically look at Gulf of Guinea and other maritime domain awareness initiatives. In the wake of US-Iran and Israel war and closure and blockade of choke points it has become imperative for New Delhi to reorient its energy security efforts in a mutually beneficial manner towards the African continent and to secure Sea lanes of Communications through collaboration and capacity building. The Diaspora helps a great deal in building bridges at peopleto-people level and in turn contributes to the growth of bilateral relations, especially in the economic field as well as through the leadership positions
EDITORIAL
acquired by them as a result of exposure and experience in a particular country. India has 3 million people of Indian origin across the African continent who are highly successful. The Indian community has begun to synthesize the socio-economic needs of the local communities by rendering various services like education, medical treatment, job creation and employment. No wonder the former President of Nigeria stated more than once that “The Indian industrialists are the second biggest employment providers after the federal Government in Nigeria”. Time is ripe to also institutionalize with the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while speaking at the Parliament in Kampala in July 2018 outlined his Africa vision through his ten guiding principles which include : Africa is among top priorities for India and momentum of cooperation will be sustained through regular exchanges ;development partnership as per African priorities; preferential access to Indian markets for African products; assist in harnessing digital revolution in Africa ; improve Africa’s agriculture potential; fight climate change together; work together to keep oceans and maritime lanes free for all; Africa instead of becoming a theatre of competition should become nursery for its youth; and aspire and work together for a just , representative, democratic global order. These are ideal, achievable and collaborative policies that dictate a paradigm shift compared to other big powers who are trying to get into the ‘Gold Rush’ for exploitation by way of neo-colonialist approaches. India–Africa relations have developed into a multifaceted partnership encompassing political engagement, trade and investment, development cooperation, capacity building, healthcare, education, digital connectivity, ICT, AI, defence cooperation, space, critical minerals, food and energy security, renewables and multilateral collaboration. The 4th India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) was postponed due to the Ebola crisis and needs to be held at the earliest to focus on current issues, challenges and solutions. India -Africa engagement will be decisive in the emerging world order as their combined synergies of natural and human resources and capital and human centric approaches can be aligned for the global good through combining the Agenda 2063 and Viksit Bharat 2047. The partnership focuses on innovation, resilience, and inclusive transformation for sustainable development. (The author is a former Ambassador of India to Jordan, Libya and Malta. The views are personal.)
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Aug 16-31, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 1
Citizen-centric diplomacy of India
By Ambassador Jeitendra Kumar Tripathi
D
iplomacy had been traditionally understood as conduct of bilateral relations between the states focussing on the negotiations only in political, economic and security related drivers. However, the advent of the current century, having witnessed a sea change in the ground realities due to the globalisation, rapid scientific and technological development and increased mobility, transformed and expanded the scope of diplomacy focussing on the new dimensions. India also could not remain untouched by this transformation and adopted a foreign policy with citizen-centric diplomacy at its heart. This policy places the welfare, security and interest of the country’s citizens at its core making Indian citizens an important part of its external engagements which has made, in turn, the Ministry of External affairs more responsive to their needs. How did it evolve? Until the turn of the last century, the Indians living abroad (NRIs) and persons of Indian origin had no place in the policies of the government as they were considered to be the persons, migrated out of India for their own individual interest with no contribution towards the development of India. However, at the beginning of the current century, it was realised that these Indians not only contribute to the economy of their homeland by way of remittances and investments but also play a significant role in the governments of their residence. The importance of the Indian diaspora can be understood by the fact that currently the Indian diaspora, with a population of more than 35.4 million (more than the combined population of Australia and New Zealand) has remitted US$ 135.46 billion in
the last financial year! Moreover, many persons of Indian origin have risen to important positions in academic institutions and in their governments which underlines their importance in our foreign policy calculus. However, lately the Indian governments started paying more attention to this vast reservoir of talent and resources. The annual Pravasi Sammelan and Pravasi awards had given momentum to the outreach to the eminent personalities of Indian diaspora. The Ministry of External Affairs has taken many initiatives to ensure the welfare of Indian citizens visiting abroad for employment, business or educational purposes. Key features of the Citizen -centric diplomacy These initiatives cover the period from the application for passport to visa, travel, safe stay and return to India. In view of the growing number of Indians willing to visit abroad, the Government has opened new passport offices, passport application centres in all districts, digitised the procedure and opened more international airports to facilitate international travel. PDOT (Prior to Departure Orientation and Training) programs are in place, a Pravasi Bhartiya Bima Yojna has been started to ensure the health insurance of Indians abroad, Migration and Mobility Partnership pacts have been signed with eight countries and Social Security agreements have been signed with nineteen countries to ensure the proper work environment for Indian workers. An e-migrate application has also been launched to educate such citizens about the rules and regulations. MADAD, a multi-lingual help portal, works round the clock to assist Indian citizens in need. It also examines the employment visas, the employer’s status and the insurance cover provided by him to the prospective worker. The government has opened more embassies and consulates to cater to the needs of Indian citizens abroad. An Indian community wing, separate from the Consular wing, has been established to ensure the well-being of the
Indians living in that jurisdiction. Indian Community Welfare Fund has been established in all our diplomatic missions and posts abroad to assist our citizens in case of emergency through temporary shelters, legal assistance and air tickets to India for the destitutes/ stranded Indians. Besides, open houses are being organised in India embassies at regular intervals to listen to and address the grievances of the Indian community. Moreover, the government conducted a number of successful rescue operations for the Indian citizens stranded in violence -hit areas. Ukraine, South Sudan, Yemen have been some of such recent operations. Challenges The citizen -centric diplomacy also faces its own challenges. The growing number of Indians visiting abroad for various purposes has put a heavy pressure on our missions which already suffer from a shortage of manpower and resourcecrunch. Effectively assisting the Indian community in a war-torn country also becomes a challenge in view of unstable situations. Misinformation by Indian touts and social media, and different local legal systems compound the problems. The way forward Allocation of sufficient staff and funds at the disposal of our missions abroad and their adequate training before posting there can mitigate the challenges. The pre- departure orientation should be made compulsory for every Indian going abroad for employment or education. A curb on touts misleading such Indians is imperative. Conclusion It is heartening that the importance of citizens in our diplomacy has finally been realised and the Government is addressing their issues with an objective and positive attitude. With allocation of more resources and strict action against the touts, our citizen-centric diplomacy will certainly bear more fruits. (The author is a former ambassador. The views are personal.)
MEA reaffirms India-Liberia partnership as new embassy opens in Delhi
New Delhi, Aug 13 (IANS) The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday said it is committed to advancing a mutually beneficial partnership with Liberia as the
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West African nation inaugurated its new Embassy in New Delhi. “Secretary (Economic Relations) Sudhakar Dalela participated in the inauguration of the new Embassy of the Republic of Liberia in New Delhi. The establishment of the Resident Mission is a significant milestone and further strengthens the close ties of friendship and cooperation between India and Liberia. Committed to working together to advance a mutually beneficial India‑Liberia partnership,” the
MEA stated on X. External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Thursday met Liberia’s Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti and discussed issues including safety and security of commercial shipping, mining, health, agriculture, water and training. He said on X that he was “delighted to meet Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti of Liberia” and congratulated her on the inauguration of the new Embassy. facebook.com/indianewsaustralia
SPOTLIGHT STORIES
India’s space sector: A launchpad for global partnerships
By Ambassador Gurjit Singh
G
rowing competition in outer space provides India with a unique opportunity to shape a narrative in which collaboration, rather than confrontation, drives space exploration. Recognised as a trustworthy and cost-effective spacefaring nation, India is now well placed to transform its technological advances into enduring international partnerships that contribute to scientific progress, economic growth, and sustainable development. India's journey into space has been distinctive. Unlike many space programmes that emerged from Cold War rivalries, India's programme was conceived as an instrument of national development. Dr. Vikram Sarabhai anchored India's space vision in practical applications that would improve the lives of ordinary people. Under his leadership, satellites were developed to strengthen communications, weather forecasting, disaster management, healthcare, agriculture and education. This development-oriented philosophy remains central to India's space programme and resonates strongly with the needs of countries in the Global South, which seek practical applications of space technology rather than prestige alone. Today, India's achievements extend beyond developmental applications. The Chandrayaan missions, the Mars Orbiter Mission, the Aditya-L1 solar observatory, and the forthcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme have established India as a nation capable of executing sophisticated and reliable space missions. Chandrayaan-3's successful soft landing near the Moon's south pole placed India among an exclusive group of space powers while demonstrating that worldclass innovation can be achieved at comparatively modest cost. India's growing credibility comes at a time when the global space economy is expanding rapidly. Valued at over US$600 billion today and projected to approach US$1.8 trillion by 2035, the sector is increasingly driven by commercial activity in satellite communications, Earth observation, navigation, climate services, broadband connectivity, and emerging fields such as in-orbit servicing and lunar exploration. Many countries aspire to participate but lack indigenous capabilities. They seek dependable long-term partners
rather than merely launch providers. India possesses the capabilities to meet these requirements. The liberalisation of the space sector in 2020 transformed the ecosystem by opening it to private participation. The establishment of the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), the expanding commercial role of NewSpace India Limited, and the growth of private enterprises have created one of the world's most dynamic emerging space ecosystems. Indian startups are developing launch vehicles, satellite platforms, geospatial applications and propulsion technologies that are attracting global investment and customers. Companies such as Skyroot Aerospace, Pixxel and Agnikul Cosmos have demonstrated that Indian private enterprise can compete internationally in advanced space technologies. The next step is to internationalise this ecosystem. Rather than positioning itself only as a low-cost launch destination, India will offer comprehensive partnerships encompassing satellite design, launch services, mission operations, ground stations, astronaut training, capacity building and downstream applications in agriculture, disaster management and maritime security. Such integrated partnerships would be valuable for countries across the Global South and the Indo-Pacific seeking affordable, customised and reliable technologies to meet their development priorities. India has demonstrated the diplomatic value of such cooperation. Through the South Asia Satellite, it provided communication and developmental benefits to neighbouring countries. Indian launch vehicles have successfully placed hundreds of foreign satellites into orbit for governments, universities and commercial operators around the world. India's decision to join the Artemis Accords reflects its willingness to participate in the peaceful exploration of the Moon through international collaboration. Cooperation with NASA, the European Space Agency and JAXA has strengthened India's scientific and technological capabilities. These partnerships reinforce India's standing as a leading voice of the Global South. India offers development partnerships based on affordability, reliability and mutual respect rather than creating technological dependence. Space cooperation has therefore become an increasingly important instrument of Indian diplomacy, strengthening bilateral relationships while delivering tangible developmental benefits.
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INDIA NEWS
BIZ BUZZ
BRICS economies are major engines Madhya Pradesh secures Rs 8,635 crore investment of global growth: FM Sitharaman
Jaipur, Aug 12 (IANS) Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Wednesday that while BRICS economies represent major growth engines of the global economy, they also face common structural constraints in mobilising private capital at scale. The challenge is not merely the availability of capital, but the creation of confidence, stability, predictability, and credible long-term frameworks which are essential to unlock sustained private participation across member countries, the Finance Minister said in her keynote address at the seminar on "The
Role of the New Development Bank in Mobilising Private Capital in Member Countries". She highlighted the critical role that the multilateral development banks play in de-risking investments, enhancing project bankability, and strengthening investor confidence so that private capital can be mobilised at scale. The seminar was held on the sidelines of the BRICS Finance Ministers’ and Central Bank Governors Meeting, being hosted here under India’s chairship. The Finance Minister emphasised that the future of development finance lies in partnership, multilateral institutions, national governments, and the private sector each bringing distinct strengths. Citing India’s experience, Sitharaman said that the Indian government has strengthened
its infrastructure ecosystem through sustained public capital expenditure and complementary structural reforms. Public investment has expanded significantly compared to a decade ago, reflecting a deliberate strategy to create productive national assets across highways, railways, ports, logistics systems, digital infrastructure, and energy networks. She stated that the government believes that public capital must act as a catalyst — not a substitute for private investment, and in support of this principle, it has carried out multiple reforms. These include viability gap funding (VGF) to support financially constrained but socially desirable projects; hybrid annuity model (HAM) to ensure balanced risk-sharing in road infrastructure, and credit enhancement mechanisms to improve project bankability.
Indian NBFC fintech loan book grows 21.2 pc in June as higher‑ticket lending gains traction: Report
New Delhi, Aug 12 (IANS) Indian non-banking financial company fintechs saw their portfolio outstanding expand 21.2 per cent year‑on‑year as of June 2026, driven by stronger underwriting and a shift toward higher‑ticket credit, a report said on Wednesday. NBFC Fintechs entered a maturing phase marked by calibrated lending and they now account for about 9 per cent of
total NBFC portfolio outstanding, the report from CRIF High Mark and the Unified Fintech Forum (UFF) said. "While personal loans continue to anchor the segment, unsecured business lending is emerging as a significant opportunity, particularly in the Rs 1 lakh– Rs 5 lakh range," the report said. Meanwhile, fintech lenders are expanding their reach beyond the largest urban centres, indicating a broader role in extending formal credit access across emerging markets. Originations in Q1 FY27 reached Rs 79.9 thousand crore, up 53 per cent in value and 21 per cent in volume YoY, driven largely by personal loans above Rs 1 lakh. The share of new-to-credit
borrowers of NBFC Fintech has moderated from 14.2 per cent in June 2024 to 11.4 per cent in June 2026, indicating a more selective and calibrated lending approach. The share of loans above Rs 1 lakh in portfolio outstanding rose from 21.6 per cent in June 2024 to 26.3 per cent in June 2026. Personal loan originations from BT100 cities increased from 32.1 per cent to 34.5 per cent in value between Q1 FY25 and Q1 FY27, and that of unsecured business loans rose from 23.3 per cent to 30 per cent. Borrowers aged 26–35 years account for 43.5 per cent of the NBFC Fintech borrower base as of June 2026, while the 36–50 age group grew 31.7 per cent YoY, signalling a gradual shift towards more mature borrowers.
Karnataka, Israel hold cyber dialogue 2026; join hands to strengthen cybersecurity partnership
Bengaluru, Aug 12 (IANS) The Government of Karnataka and the Consulate General of Israel in Bengaluru on Wednesday held the Karnataka-Israel Cyber Dialogue 2026, bringing together government officials, industry leaders, startups, academia and cybersecurity experts to explore deeper collaboration in cybersecurity innovation, talent development, research and digital resilience.
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Held under the theme 'Stronger Together. Secure Tomorrow,' the dialogue was organised as part of Karnataka’s Global Innovation Alliance (GIA), in collaboration with the Consulate General and Trade Mission of Israel in South India and the Centre for Cybersecurity Karnataka (CySecK). A delegation of 10 Israeli cybersecurity companies participated in the programme, which included technology demonstrations and businessto-business (B2B) meetings with Karnataka-based startups and companies. The engagement aimed to move beyond knowledge exchange and identify practical opportunities for technology
partnerships and collaboration. The discussions focussed on four key areas — innovation and startups, industry partnerships, talent and skills, and policy and trust — with an emphasis on strengthening the resilience of critical digital infrastructure, businesses and public institutions. Speaking at the event, Dr. N. Manjula, Secretary, Department of Electronics, IT and BT, Government of Karnataka, said cybersecurity had become an economic imperative and a governance priority as digital technologies become increasingly embedded in everyday life.
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proposals from Gujarat
Ahmedabad, Aug 12 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh received investment proposals worth Rs 8,635 crore during a mega investment dialogue with Gujarat's industrial sector in Ahmedabad on Wednesday, with the proposed projects expected to generate 5,785 employment opportunities across sectors, including cement, packaging, food processing, pharmaceuticals, textiles, engineering, chemicals, aerospace and defence. The investment commitments came as Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav held discussions with more than 500 industrialists, investors and corporate representatives from Ahmedabad, Surat, Bhavnagar, Rajkot and Vadodara. The Ahmedabad outreach was also aimed at encouraging Gujarat-based businesses to participate in Madhya Pradesh's Global Investors Summit-2027. The meeting had been announced
ahead of the event as part of Madhya Pradesh's effort to attract investment from Gujarat's established industrial base. Chief Minister Yadav said that Madhya Pradesh offered opportunities for setting up new industries, expanding existing units and extending businesses, and assured investors of government support. "For running an industry, what is primarily needed is a sound policy, good intentions and a supportive government. You will find all three in Madhya Pradesh," he added. Inviting Gujarat's industrial sector to the 2027 Global Investors Summit in Bhopal, Chief Minister Yadav said: "You have the experience and we have the opportunities. If your experience comes together with our opportunities, we will create history together." He also urged investors to invest in Madhya Pradesh "without any hesitation and with an open heart" and become part of the state's development journey. The Chief Minister said investors did not need to worry about electricity, water or land in Madhya Pradesh.
Adani Group delegation meets Andhra CM, briefs on proposed titanium plant Amaravati, Aug 12 (IANS) A delegation led by Karan Adani, Managing Director of Adani Ports and SEZ Limited, met Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and briefed him on the proposed titanium plant to be established by the Adani Group in Srikakulam district with an investment of Rs 16,000 crore. During the meeting at the State Secretariat here on Wednesday, the delegation briefed the Chief Minister on beach sand mining, the products that can be manufactured from these minerals, their applications across various sectors and market demand, said an official release. The Adani Group representatives explained that ilmenite available in beach sand can be value-added to produce titanium slag, titanium dioxide (TiO) and titanium sponge. They said TiO has applications in paints, coatings, cosmetics, plastics and polymers, UV-protection products and several other industries. The Adani Group representatives
also informed the Chief Minister that steps would be taken to establish skill development facilities, Adani University, an international school, a 1,000-bed hospital under the name Adani Aarogya Mandir, and a 150-seat medical college in Visakhapatnam. They also presented the master plan details for the proposed Adani Data Centre and IT Park in Visakhapatnam. The Chief Minister called for value addition to beach sand minerals available in Andhra Pradesh. He emphasised the need to prioritise the manufacture of value-added products within the State to reduce dependence on other countries for rare earth minerals and called for adoption of advanced technologies in this sector. Chief Minister Naidu stressed the importance of manufacturing value-added products within the State to maximise the economic benefits from the state's mineral resources. He said beach sand minerals should not be viewed merely as resources to be extracted as raw minerals, but as the foundation for developing an integrated value chain that delivers maximum benefit to both the State and the country.
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TRUMP EFFECT
Trump claims historic fall Trump vows to abolish US sanctuary cities in US violent crime
Washington, Aug 15 (IANS) US President Donald Trump has announced what he described as the largest fall in violent crime in American history, citing a new FBI report that he said showed sharp reductions in murders and other serious offences during 2025. Trump made the announcement during an address to law enforcement officers and supporters in Garden City, New York. He credited federal agencies, local police and his administration’s policies for the reported decline. “Today, I’m thrilled to announce that the FBI has just released a new uniform crime report showing that in 2025, we achieved the single largest reduction in violent crime in American
history,” Trump said. The president claimed there were more than 3,100 fewer murders than in the preceding year. He also cited declines in reported rapes, assaults, robberies, burglaries and thefts. “Think of this, rapes, 10,000 fewer — we had 10,000 fewer rapes than the year before,” Trump said. “One million fewer assaults, robberies, burglaries, thefts.” Trump did not provide a detailed breakdown of the FBI data or explain how the individual crime categories contributed to the overall figure during his remarks. “The numbers — every single number — it’s the first time it’s ever happened. Every single number is the lowest number in recorded history,” he said. Trump said preliminary figures indicated that the decline had continued into 2026. He claimed that robberies had fallen by another 20 per cent and murders by another 23 per cent. “So the numbers you just heard, the preliminary numbers for just now are even lower than the record numbers that you just heard,” he said.
Washington, Aug 15 (IANS) US President Donald Trump has vowed to abolish sanctuary cities across the country as part of a wider immigration crackdown, accusing jurisdictions that limit cooperation with federal authorities of protecting criminals. Trump made the pledge during an address to police officers and supporters in Garden City, New York. He also called for tougher penalties for repeat offenders and an end to cashless bail. “We will impose harsh new penalties for dangerous repeat offenders,” Trump said. “We will crack down on Marxist prosecutors.” “We will never abolish the police
instead. We will abolish the sanctuary cities. We will abolish them; we will destroy them; we will take them out. We’re going to take them out of service, and we will immediately end no cash bail,” he added. Trump described sanctuary jurisdictions as the biggest obstacle facing his administration’s immigration enforcement campaign. “The biggest problem we have, the biggest impediment we have are sanctuary cities, you know, where they protect criminals,” he said. “It’s called a sanctuary for criminal — we ought to change the name a sanctuary for criminals.” The president accused New York Governor Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Mamdani of opposing his border, immigration and crime policies. He also attacked New York’s bail and parole policies. Trump claimed Hochul had turned New York into a sanctuary state and wanted migrant
Washington, Aug 11 (IANS) US President Donald Trump sought to frame the coming US midterm elections as a choice between his policies and what he called the radicalism of Democratic candidates, asserting that “jihadists” and communists were being elected across the country. Asked what recommendations he had for Republicans heading into the elections, Trump said the opposition’s candidates would make it easier for his party to
draw a sharp political contrast. “Well, the one thing is we have jihadists being elected all over the place,” Trump said during an interaction with reporters at the White House. “We have this — whether it’s communism, jihadism,” he said. Trump did not identify any candidate by name or specify which elections he was referring to. He said a friend had encouraged him to use the term “jihadist” to describe what was happening politically. “A friend of mine called up and said, you know, really, you should use the word jihadist because that’s what’s happening,” Trump said. The president argued that voters did not want candidates he characterised as extreme taking control of the government. “People don’t want to have radical
Trump targets ‘jihadists’ in midterm pitch
Trump keeps military escalation against Iran open, claims US has full control of Hormuz
Washington, Aug 11 (IANS) US President Donald Trump kept open the possibility of a major military escalation against Iran, rejected Tehran’s demand for compensation and asserted that the US Navy had complete control of the Strait of Hormuz. Asked what would follow the latest round of talks with Iran, Trump twice told reporters: “You’ll find out.” A reporter asked whether a massive escalation remained on the table. “Well we have that — certainly that ability if we want to do that, yeah. You’ll find out,” Trump said during an interaction with the media at the White House. Trump said Iran had sought money for damage caused by the United States. He responded by arguing that Tehran should compensate the victims of its actions over the past five decades. “They asked for, uh, reparations, you might say, or they asked for money for the damage that we’ve done,” Trump said. “I said, that’s a good idea. Well, we’re going to ask for money for the damage they’ve done over a 50 www.indianews.com.au
year period,” he added. Trump referred to people allegedly killed or wounded by Iran and the families of protesters he said had been killed during unrest in the country. “We think they — their family should get damages for killing their person or their child or mother or father that were protesting,” he said. “If there’s damages to be paid, I think Iran should pay those damages,” Trump added. The president did not provide details about the status of the talks or explain what military steps were under consideration. Trump also said the Strait of Hormuz was open, but claimed the US Navy controlled passage through the strategically important waterway. “The only one that has control of the Strait of Hormuz right now is the United States Navy,” he said. “We have a blockade that’s been infallible. It’s a steel wall and we let people in that we want to let in and those people come in and they’re going out,” Trump said. The president said vessels were being permitted to use the strait but were not allowed to travel to Iran. “So it’s actually open now. We do not let them go into Iran. They’re not admitted into the strait to go to Iran. But it’s open for others,” he said.
offenders released from jails. He did not cite the provisions of the law during the speech. “She’s in favor of the sanctuary city. She thinks the sanctuary cities are wonderful, which are killing our country,” Trump said. Trump praised Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman for cooperating with federal authorities. He said the partnership had led to the removal of more than 2,000 migrant offenders from the county. The president also claimed federal law enforcement agencies had arrested 1.2 million people described as criminals nationwide since he took office. He said federal criminal prosecutions had increased by more than 50 per cent and FBI arrests for violent crime had nearly doubled. “We want to make sure we get the bad ones,” Trump said. Trump linked his immigration campaign to the decline in crime that he announced during the same address.
lunatics involved in running our country, and that’s what we have,” he said. Trump accused unnamed Democratic candidates of wanting to dismantle core American institutions, including the Supreme Court, the presidency and the Senate. “When you look at the radicalism and the craziness of the candidates and the stupidity of what they’re suggesting, let’s get rid of the Supreme Court, let’s get rid of the presidency, let’s get rid of the Senate,” he said. Trump also accused his political opponents of seeking to defund the police and weaken the US military. “They want to defund our police, they want to terminate our military, no military, we don’t want any military in our country,” he said.
Trump defends splitting childhood vaccines
Washington, Aug 11 (IANS) US President Donald Trump defended his recommendation to separate the combined measles, mumps and rubella vaccine despite acknowledging that he had no direct evidence supporting his suggestion that administering the three vaccines together could be dangerous. Trump spoke after signing an executive order establishing new childhood vaccine recommendations. The policy calls for separate measles,
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mumps and rubella shots once the individual products become domestically available. Asked whether there was evidence for his description of the combined MMR vaccine as potentially lethal, Trump replied: “No.” “What I’ve heard is that there are there are some people that say it is that way and I say, well, let’s say there’s a five percent chance of it, let’s split it up, let’s split it up,” he said. Trump said he had heard that individually administered vaccines were safe but that combining them “can be explosive”. The president also recommended giving childhood immunisations over several medical visits instead of administering multiple
vaccines during one appointment. Trump said he had followed that approach with his own children. “I took my children for five different vaccinations,” he said. “I took them through five different visits to the doctor. Essentially, they get 20 percent each and I had no problem.” Trump said the additional visits were inconvenient but predicted that spacing out vaccines would affect autism rates. “It’s inconvenient, it’s five stops, but it’s something that I think will have a huge impact on autism,” he said. Asked whether extra medical visits would result in additional co-payments for families, Trump promised assistance but announced no specific financial programme.
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India-Australia education links discussed in Perth
Mining technology opens new Australia-India opportunities
Perth, August 5 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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igh Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh met Professor Amit Chakma, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Western Australia (UWA), at the university’s Perth campus to discuss ways to strengthen education and research cooperation between India and Australia. According to the High Commission of India, the discussions covered institutional
linkages, student mobility and UWA’s growing engagement with India. The meeting focused on opportunities to expand education and research partnerships and strengthen connections between Indian institutions and the University of Western Australia. The engagement highlighted the potential for closer institutional cooperation and greater student mobility as part of the broader Australia-India education partnership.
COMMUNITY CHRONICLE
Perth, August 5 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
H
igh Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh met senior representatives of Western Australia’s Mining Equipment, Technology and Services (METS) sector at a roundtable facilitated by the Minerals Council of Australia. According to the High Commission of India, the discussions focused on expanding Australia-India collaboration in mining technology, innovation, critical minerals and sustainable resource development. The roundtable provided an opportunity to discuss areas of cooperation between India and Western Australia’s METS sector, particularly in mining-related technology and innovation. The engagement highlighted the potential for greater cooperation between Australia and India in critical minerals and sustainable resource development.
Sport strengthens Australia-India ties
Perth, August 5 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
H
igh Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh met John Stephenson, CEO of the Western Australian Cricket Association (WACA), at the WACA Ground in Perth to discuss opportunities to strengthen sporting ties between Australia and India. According to the High Commission of India, the
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discussions focused on promoting cricketing exchanges and community engagement through the shared passion for cricket. The meeting also explored opportunities to deepen sporting connections between the two countries and encourage greater engagement through cricket. The discussions highlighted the potential of cricket to strengthen people-to-people connections between Australia and India.
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COMMUNITY CHRONICLE
Allianz Partners renews Foodbank partnership to support international students
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llianz Partners has renewed its partnership with Foodbank for a further three years, reinforcing its commitment to helping address the cost-of-living pressures facing international students in Australia. The renewed partnership was highlighted today at Murdoch University in Perth as the Allianz Partners and Foodbank International Student market stall series marked 12 months since its expansion into Western Australia. The series now operates across Queensland, New South Wales, the ACT, Victoria, Western Australia and South Australia, following its expansion into South Australia for the first time this year. Since 2024, the market stall series has delivered 20 on-campus market stalls, providing more than 110 tonnes of fresh produce and pantry staples to more than 12,000 students at 12 institutions. This quantity is the equivalent of three fully loaded road trains or an empty Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. In 2025, the program expanded into Western Australia, supporting nearly 2,000 students in the state and distributing more than 12 tonnes of food and essential products through two market stalls. Allianz Partners Executive Head of Health, Miranda Fennell,
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said the renewal reflected the company's commitment to supporting students beyond traditional insurance cover. “Allianz Partners is proud to renew our partnership with Foodbank for a further three years," Ms Fennell said. “For us, this is about delivering more than insurance. It's about making a genuine difference in the day-to-day lives of the students we support. “Our latest Food Insecurity Impact Report highlights the significant challenges many international students continue to face. The report found that 84% worry about having enough food to eat, while 80%have skipped meals or eaten less due to financial constraints.” The market stall series sits alongside Allianz Care Australia's wider wellbeing support for international students, which includes an on-campus support team at universities across the country as well asthe Sonder mental health, safety and wellbeing app, which is available in more than 240 languages and offers primary OSHC policyholders 24/7 access to nurses, mental health first-aiders and safety responders. Murdoch University Director, Student Wellbeing Simon Walters, welcomed the extension of the partnership.
"International students are a valued part of the Murdoch community, but we also recognise that studying in a new country brings challenges, particularly when students are navigating financial pressures, building new support networks and being far from family and familiar sources of support,” Mr Walters said. "At Murdoch University, we provide a range of wellbeing supports for students, as well as specific supports for international students, including access to an International Mental Health Practitioner, alongside opportunities to build connection and belonging through initiatives such as International Café in The Den - our student wellbeing drop-in space. "Partnerships like this one are welcomed as they help ensure students feel supported and connected to a community that cares while addressing practical challenges such as food insecurity." Foodbank WA Chief Executive, Kate O’Hara, said rising demand for food staples was evident across all sectors of the community, including students. “Food insecurity doesn't discriminate, and university students, particularly those far from home and their usual support networks, are more vulnerable than many people realise," Ms O’Hara said.
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COMMUNITY CHRONICLE
Gond art celebrates India’s heritage in Brisbane Brisbane, August 8 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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ndia’s traditional art and its vision for the future came together in Brisbane at a Gond Art Workshop organised by the Consulate General of India (CGI), Brisbane, in association with MYArCC. According to an update issued by CGI Brisbane, the workshop was organised on the theme of
Viksit Bharat, bringing together traditional Indian art and ideas about India’s development vision. Participants were introduced to the distinctive tradition of Gond art and given an opportunity to explore their creativity through the art form. The Consulate said the workshop also provided a platform for participants to exchange ideas on Viksit Bharat 2047 and the GYAN framework for a developed India.
The initiative connected India's artistic heritage with contemporary discussions about the country's future. CGI Brisbane described the workshop as a confluence of art, culture and ideas for a developed India. The workshop also provided an opportunity for members of the community to engage directly with an Indian traditional art form while participating in discussions around India's development vision.
Brisbane Expo backs migrant inclusion Brisbane, August 5 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he third edition of the Empowering Migrants Expo, organised by Bhartiya Samaj, brought together government representatives and community stakeholders in Brisbane, with a focus on supporting and empowering migrant communities. Consul General of India in Brisbane Neetu Bhagotia addressed the expo, which
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was organised for the third consecutive year. The event brought together representatives from different levels of government and other stakeholders, highlighting the importance of supporting migrant communities while promoting inclusion and collaboration. According to the Consulate General of India, Brisbane, the expo was a celebration of multiculturalism and provided a platform for key stakeholders to come together around issues
affecting migrant communities. The Consulate said the event highlighted the importance of creating stronger avenues of support for migrants and fostering greater cooperation among communities and institutions. The expo's third edition continued an initiative that has been held successfully for three consecutive years, bringing government and community representatives together in a multicultural setting.
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COMMUNITY CHRONICLE
Brisbane community plants up to 500 trees Brisbane, August 1 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Consulate General of India, Brisbane, participated in a community tree plantation drive organised by the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Temple, Kingston, bringing community members together for an environmental sustainability initiative. According to the Consulate
General of India, Brisbane, the drive involved the planting of approximately 300 to 500 trees. The initiative brought members of the community together to promote environmental sustainability through tree planting. The Consulate described the effort as an example of collective community action towards a greener future.
Australia & India education ties gain focus India–Australia partnership in focus ahead of India@80 Melbourne, August 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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ooperation between Australia and India in education, research and skills was discussed during a meeting between High Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh and Professor Adam Shoemaker, Vice-Chancellor and president of Victoria University, Melbourne. According to the High Commission of India in Canberra, the discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in education, research, skills and institutional partnerships. The meeting also considered opportunities arising from Victoria University’s growing engagement with India, the High Commission said. The discussions covered the potential for stronger institutional partnerships between Australia and India, with education, research and skills identified as key areas of cooperation. The meeting highlighted the role of universities and institutional partnerships in strengthening Australia–India engagement in education and related fields.
Canberra, August 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he longstanding partnership between Australia and India was highlighted ahead of India’s 80th Independence Day during a podcast conversation involving High Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh and Lisa Singh, CEO of the Australia India Institute. The meeting took place at the Australia India Institute at the University of Melbourne and focused on the enduring Australia–India partnership and the connections between the two countries.
According to the High Commission of India in Canberra, the podcast explored the shared journey of friendship, cooperation and people-topeople ties between Australia and India. The interaction formed part of activities marking India@80, highlighting the relationship between the two countries and the longstanding connections between their people. The High Commission described the discussion as a special conversation celebrating the spirit of India@80 and the shared journey of friendship, cooperation and people-topeople ties.
Australia–India ties discussed at Canberra meeting Canberra, August 12 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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ustralia–India relations and opportunities to further strengthen the bilateral partnership were discussed during a meeting between High Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh and Australian Member of Parliament Ash Ambihaipahar. According to the High Commission of India in Canberra, the meeting was productive and focused on Australia–India relations and opportunities to further strengthen the countries’ multifaceted partnership. The discussions also covered people-to-people and community ties, highlighting their importance in strengthening connections between Australia and India. The meeting formed part of ongoing engagement between Indian and Australian representatives on bilateral relations and opportunities to deepen cooperation.
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Kho Kho’s popularity grows in Australia
Australia-India ties highlighted at Asialink reception
Canberra, August 7 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he growing popularity of Kho Kho in Australia and opportunities to strengthen sporting ties between Australia and India were discussed during a meeting between High Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh and representatives of Kho Kho Australia. According to the High Commission of India in Canberra,
the discussions focused on the increasing popularity of the traditional Indian sport in Australia and opportunities to deepen sporting ties. The meeting also explored ways to promote Kho Kho among the wider Australian community, the High Commission said. The interaction highlighted the role of sport in strengthening connections between Australia and India and creating greater awareness of India’s traditional sporting heritage in Australia.
he High Commission of India in Canberra hosted delegates of the 2026 Asialink Leaders Program at an evening reception, with discussions focusing on the growing Australia-India partnership and opportunities for deeper engagement. High Commissioner of India Nagesh Singh addressed the
Young leaders drive Australia-India partnership Canberra, August 5 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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igh Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh interacted with delegates of the E-Nyouth Dialogue, with the discussion focusing on the role of young leaders in strengthening the AustraliaIndia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
people ties. The delegates exchanged views on the contribution young leaders can make to closer cooperation between Australia and India.
The engagement highlighted the role of youth participation in building stronger connections and supporting the continuing development of the AustraliaIndia partnership.
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gathering, which was followed by discussions on opportunities to strengthen cooperation across business, government and education, according to an update from the High Commission. The reception also featured a performance of Indian classical music, offering delegates an insight into India's cultural heritage and adding a cultural dimension to the programme. The High Commission said the
evening provided an opportunity to highlight the expanding partnership between Australia and India and explore avenues for greater engagement between the two countries. The Asialink Leaders Program brought together its 2026 delegates for the reception, providing a platform for interaction and discussion around the continuing development of Australia-India relations.
India & Malaysia discuss stronger cooperation
According to the High Commission of India, the interaction covered opportunities for youth-led cooperation in education, innovation, entrepreneurship and people-to-
Canberra, August 5 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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ndia’s High Commissioner to Australia Nagesh Singh met Malaysia’s High Commissioner to Australia, Datin Paduka Sharrina Abdullah, to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation between India and Malaysia. According to the High Commission of India in Canberra, the meeting focused on the growing India-Malaysia
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partnership and opportunities for deeper bilateral cooperation. The discussions covered areas, including trade, education and people-to-people ties, with the two sides exchanging views on opportunities to further strengthen these links. The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss areas of mutual interest and explore avenues for continued engagement between India and Malaysia.
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COMMUNITY CHRONICLE
Regional media role in FICQ Unity Cup to celebrate Australia-India ties discussed
multiculturalism through football Brisbane, August 14 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) will bring multicultural communities together through the FICQ Unity Cup 2026, a soccer tournament focused on sport, teamwork and community connections.
Canberra, August 3 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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igh Commissioner of India to Australia Nagesh Singh interacted with representatives of ABC Goldfields and The Kalgoorlie Miner during an engagement focused on AustraliaIndia relations and bilateral cooperation. According to the High Commission of India, the discussions also covered
the role of regional media in strengthening people-to-people connections between Australia and India. The interaction provided an opportunity to exchange views on the Australia-India relationship and the contribution of regional media to connecting communities. The High Commission said the importance of regional media in strengthening people-topeople ties was among the issues discussed during the engagement.
House of India plans gain momentum in Ipswich
The event will be held on September 13 at J.F. O’Grady Memorial Park in Fairfield, Brisbane, from 7am to 4pm. The tournament will feature four categories — Men’s Open, Women’s Open, Under-14 and Under-9 — allowing players across different age groups to participate. FICQ said the event would provide an opportunity for players, families, supporters and community members from diverse backgrounds to come together through football and celebrate multicultural unity. The Unity Cup is being positioned as a community-focused sporting event, with an emphasis on friendship, participation and stronger connections among Queensland’s multicultural communities. FICQ has invited players, families and community members to attend and be part of the event.
FICQ, Logan Mayor discuss stronger community links Brisbane, August 10 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) has held discussions with Logan City Mayor Jon Raven on strengthening multicultural engagement and building closer links between community groups and the local council.
Brisbane, August 13 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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lans for a proposed House of India in Ipswich are progressing, with the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) discussing the project with Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding. The meeting provided an opportunity for FICQ to share an update on the project’s progress and its vision for creating a dedicated platform for community engagement and cultural activities. Mayor Harding highlighted the community and business
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opportunities available in Ipswich and encouraged FICQ to consider organising more events in the region. The discussions also explored potential collaboration with existing Ipswich programs and initiatives. FICQ said the meeting was an important step towards strengthening its engagement with the Ipswich community and developing opportunities for collaboration. The organisation also acknowledged Mayor Harding’s support for multicultural communities and said it looked forward to building a stronger partnership with the council and creating more opportunities for
FICQ’s executive committee met Mayor Raven to discuss opportunities to support Queensland’s multicultural communities and encourage greater participation in community activities across Logan. The discussions also explored potential areas for collaboration between FICQ and existing local initiatives, with a focus on promoting community engagement and creating stronger connections among people from diverse backgrounds. FICQ thanked Mayor Raven for his time and support for multicultural communities and said it looked forward to working with the council to develop further opportunities for
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community collaboration. The meeting is part of FICQ’s ongoing engagement with local councils and community organisations across Queensland
to strengthen multicultural participation and foster more connected communities.
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Perth Consul General meets FICQ, Queensland government new ISWA committee discuss multicultural cooperation
Brisbane, August 7(Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) has discussed opportunities for closer cooperation with the Queensland Government during
a meeting with Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs and International Student Attraction Hermann Vorster MP. FICQ’s executive committee discussed potential areas of collaboration in supporting volunteering initiatives,
strengthening multicultural engagement and creating positive outcomes for Queensland’s diverse communities. The meeting also provided an opportunity to explore ways FICQ and the Queensland Government could work together to encourage greater participation and build stronger connections among multicultural communities. During the meeting, Vorster formally launched the poster for FICQ’s upcoming Multicultural Unity Dinner, an event aimed at bringing people from different cultural backgrounds together. FICQ thanked Vorster for his continued support and encouragement and said it looked forward to further collaboration with the Queensland Government on initiatives benefiting the state’s multicultural communities.
Australia, India explore stronger sports ties
PERTH, AUGUST 6 (AUSTRALIA INDIA NEWS NEWSDESK)
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ustralia and India have discussed opportunities to deepen cooperation in sport, including sports medicine, healthcare, coaching, training facilities and gender equality in sport. The discussions took place when
Consul General of India in Perth Kajari Biswas met Sally Carbon OAM, dual Olympian and Olympic gold medallist, president and Chair of Hockey WA, and Board Chair of the East Metropolitan Health Service in Western Australia. According to the Consulate General of India in Perth, the meeting focused on identifying opportunities to strengthen cooperation between Australia and India in the sporting sector, with particular attention to sports medicine, healthcare, training facilities and coaching. The Consulate also said the discussion covered advancing gender equality in sport. The engagement brings together India's diplomatic representation in Western Australia and an Australian sporting figure with experience in elite competition, sports administration and healthcare leadership. The discussion comes against a
broader backdrop of AustraliaIndia engagement through sport. The Perth meeting also highlights the potential for cooperation beyond sporting competitions, particularly in areas connecting sport with health, athlete development, training and professional expertise. The discussion was focused on exploring opportunities for greater cooperation across the identified areas. For Australia and India, sport provides another avenue for institutional and professional engagement, while discussions around healthcare, coaching, training infrastructure and women's participation broaden the scope of potential cooperation. The meeting forms part of continuing engagement by the Consulate General of India in Perth with Australian institutions and leaders across different sectors.
Perth, August 13 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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onsul General of India in Perth Kajari Biswas met the newly elected management committee of the Indian Society of Western Australia (ISWA), led by its president, Dr Divya Sharma, with discussions focusing on community engagement and strengthening collaboration with the Indian community in Western Australia. The Consulate General of India in Perth shared details of the meeting through its official social-media channels. According to the Consulate, the interaction provided an opportunity to discuss community engagement and ways to further strengthen collaboration with the Indian community in Western Australia. The meeting brought together Biswas and members of the newly elected ISWA management committee. Dr Sharma is leading the committee as its president. The Consulate's update highlighted the discussions around community engagement and continued collaboration with the Indian community in Western Australia.
ISWA has a longstanding role in bringing together Indian community organisations and supporting community engagement in Western Australia. The meeting with the Consul General provides an avenue for the newly elected committee to discuss its engagement with the Consulate and the wider Indian community. The interaction also underlines the continuing engagement between India's diplomatic representatives in Perth and community organisations representing Australians of Indian origin. For the Indian community in Western Australia, such engagement provides an opportunity to discuss community priorities and explore ways of strengthening links between community organisations and the Consulate. The meeting comes as the newly elected ISWA management committee begins its term, with Dr Sharma at the helm. The Consulate's official account said the discussions were aimed at further strengthening collaboration with the Indian community in Western Australia.
India, WA explore new areas of cooperation courtesy call on Hannah Beazley MLA, Western Australia's Minister for Local Government, Disability Services, Veterans, Volunteering and Youth, with the two sides discussing opportunities to further strengthen cooperation between India and Western Australia. According to the Consulate General of India, Perth, the meeting focused on opportunities to deepen India-Western Australia cooperation.
Perth, August 4 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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onsul General of India in Perth Kajari Biswas paid a
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The discussion brought together India's representative in Western Australia and a state minister whose responsibilities include local government, disability services, veterans, volunteering
and youth. The Consulate's update said the meeting was aimed at exploring opportunities to further strengthen cooperation between India and Western Australia. The engagement adds to the continuing interaction between the Consulate and the Western Australian Government on areas of mutual interest. It also provides an avenue for discussing cooperation at the state level alongside the broader AustraliaIndia relationship. The focus remained on discussions between Biswas and Beazley and opportunities to strengthen cooperation between India and Western Australia.
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Perth celebrates India’s 80th Independence Day Perth, August 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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he Indian community and friends of India in Western Australia gathered at the Consulate General of India in Perth to mark India’s 80th Independence Day with a programme featuring patriotic music, flag-hoisting and cultural performances. The celebrations opened with a rendition of Vande Mataram by students from Sanskriti Shiksha
Kendra and OHOM, marking 150 years of the iconic national song and recalling its association with India’s freedom movement. Consul General of India, Perth, Kajari Biswas led the flag-hoisting ceremony in the presence of veterans. Children from the Kannada Sangha of Western Australia performed the Indian National Anthem. The Consul General also read the Independence Day address by the President of India. A cultural programme followed, showcasing India’s diverse
heritage through classical dance and musical performances. The programme included a classical dance presentation, an energetic performance by senior community members and a special rendition of Vande Mataram by students. The celebrations brought together members of the Indian diaspora and friends of India to commemorate eight decades of independence and celebrate India’s cultural heritage and spirit of unity.
Melbourne Indian community celebrates 80th Independence Day Melbourne, August 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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ore than 500 members of the Indian community joined celebrations at the Consulate General of India in Melbourne to mark India’s 80th Independence Day. Consul General of India Anish Rajan unfurled the Tricolour at the Consulate as part of the commemorations. The programme featured the singing of India’s National Song
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and National Anthem, along with cultural performances highlighting the country’s rich heritage and traditions. The celebrations brought together members of the Indian community in Victoria and reflected the spirit of unity in diversity associated with India’s Independence Day. The gathering also provided an opportunity for the Indian diaspora to celebrate the occasion together and showcase India’s cultural traditions in Melbourne.
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Aug 16-31, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 1
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Global health, scientific cooperation and the case for Taiwan’s participation
By Director-General Hou-Lu (William) Fan HA 79 and the growing importance of inclusive global health systems
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From 18 to 23 May 2026, global health leaders, policymakers, researchers and medical experts will gather in Geneva for the 79th World Health Assembly (WHA 79) under the theme: “Together for health. Stand with science.” At a time when the world continues to confront emerging infectious diseases, ageing populations, chronic illnesses and growing pressure on healthcare systems, the theme carries both urgency and significance. The challenges facing global health today cannot be addressed in isolation. Pandemics, health emergencies and disease outbreaks do not recognise borders, political systems or geography. They affect nations collectively and require international cooperation rooted in science, transparency and shared responsibility. In this context, the continued exclusion of Taiwan from meaningful participation in the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Health Assembly remains a subject of growing discussion among supporters of inclusive global health governance. Taiwan’s digital healthcare success and medical innovation Taiwan today possesses one of the most advanced healthcare systems in Asia, combining universal healthcare coverage with digital innovation, technological integration and preventive medicine. Its National Health Insurance system provides near-universal coverage and is supported by a highly digitalised healthcare infrastructure. Through systems such as electronic medical record exchanges and the NHI MediCloud platform, healthcare professionals are able to securely access patient data in real time, improving efficiency, reducing duplication and enhancing patient safety. Over recent years, Taiwan has also accelerated the use of telemedicine and smart healthcare technologies. Nationwide telemedicine services have enabled specialists to provide consultations to remote communities across a wide range of medical fields, including
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cardiology, dermatology and chronic disease management. The introduction of electronic prescription systems has further modernised patient care by enabling secure cloudbased sharing of medication information between hospitals and pharmacies. Such developments not only improve healthcare accessibility but also reduce medical errors and contribute to more sustainable healthcare systems. Taiwan has also emerged as an important player in the application of artificial intelligence in healthcare. By collaborating with technology partners and research institutions, Taiwan has developed AI-assisted systems aimed at predicting disease risk and strengthening preventive care. Such initiatives are increasingly important as countries across the world confront rising rates of diabetes, cardiovascular disease and ageing-related health conditions. Long-term care and healthcare preparedness In long-term care, Taiwan has introduced smart assistive technologies designed to support elderly populations and reduce pressure on caregivers. These technologies assist with mobility monitoring, patient safety and daily living support, reflecting the broader regional challenge of demographic ageing being experienced across the IndoPacific. Importantly, these innovations are not theoretical concepts limited to policy discussions. They represent practical experiences that can contribute meaningfully to international health cooperation. The WHA theme, “Together for health. Stand with science,” emphasises evidencebased collaboration, and Taiwan’s healthcare experience aligns closely with that principle. Taiwan’s community health contributions in Queensland Taiwan’s contribution to healthcare has also extended beyond its own borders. During periods of international health emergencies, Taiwan has supplied medical equipment, healthcare expertise and humanitarian support to various countries and communities. In Queensland, Taiwan-linked organisations and volunteers have played a visible role in supporting healthcare
outreach initiatives. One example is the long-standing work of the Tzu Chi Foundation Brisbane, which for many years has organised medical outreach programs in regional and disadvantaged communities across Queensland. During the recent Easter period, volunteers including doctors, dentists, nurses and allied healthcare workers travelled to Tara in Queensland’s Western Downs region to provide hundreds of treatments and consultations. Services included dental care, physiotherapy, traditional Chinese medicine and general health assessments. Such initiatives reflect a model of community-driven healthcare support that operates beyond politics and focuses directly on human wellbeing. Taiwanese institutions have also strengthened cooperation with Australian healthcare providers. In 2021, Taiwan Adventist Hospital and Brisbane’s Mater Group entered into a Memorandum of Understanding focused on collaboration in medical research, clinical training and hospital management. The agreement marked an important step in expanding institutional healthcare cooperation between Taiwan and Queensland. At the community level, Taiwanese Australians have also contributed to Queensland’s healthcare and charitable sectors through volunteering, fundraising and support for hospital foundations. These activities demonstrate how diaspora communities can help strengthen social and healthcare connections between societies. The debate over Taiwan’s participation in WHO The broader issue, however, concerns Taiwan’s limited participation within the WHO framework. Supporters of Taiwan’s inclusion argue that the exclusion creates avoidable gaps in international health cooperation. Taiwan possesses extensive experience in infectious disease surveillance, digital health systems and pandemic response. During the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak, Taiwan was widely noted for its rapid response measures, border controls, digital monitoring systems and public health management.
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Despite these capabilities, Taiwan’s participation in WHO technical meetings and information-sharing systems has remained restricted and inconsistent. Critics of the current arrangement argue that excluding a highly developed healthcare system from global health mechanisms weakens overall preparedness and reduces opportunities for information exchange. The issue also carries broader implications for global health security. Infectious diseases spread rapidly across borders, and any gaps in international coordination can affect global response efforts. Public health experts frequently emphasise that effective disease prevention depends on transparency, timely information-sharing and inclusive participation. Australia, regional cooperation and shared health goals Australia has consistently supported rules-based international cooperation and evidence-based policymaking in global affairs. As Australia and Taiwan continue to deepen ties in trade, education, technology and people-to-people engagement, healthcare cooperation has also become an increasingly important area of interaction. Within Australia, discussions around Taiwan’s participation in international organisations are often framed in practical terms rather than ideological ones. Advocates point to Taiwan’s healthcare achievements, technological capabilities and contributions to international medical cooperation as reasons for broader engagement. The WHA 79 theme itself reinforces the importance of scientific cooperation at a time when healthcare systems worldwide face mounting pressures. Emerging diseases, antimicrobial resistance, mental
health burdens and ageing populations require collaborative responses that draw on expertise from multiple regions and healthcare models. Global health requires inclusive participation Taiwan’s experience in digital healthcare, telemedicine, preventive medicine and healthcare system integration offers insights that many countries may find valuable. Excluding such experience from international dialogue risks limiting the exchange of knowledge at a time when global cooperation is increasingly essential. As delegates gather in Geneva under the banner “Together for health. Stand with science,” the broader message remains clear: healthcare challenges are global, and effective solutions depend on inclusion, cooperation and scientific engagement. For supporters of Taiwan’s participation, the argument is ultimately rooted in practicality. They believe that global health systems become stronger when capable partners are included rather than isolated. In an interconnected world where health emergencies can spread rapidly across continents, international health security depends on broad participation and shared expertise. The continuing debate surrounding Taiwan’s role within the WHO framework therefore extends beyond diplomacy alone. It reflects larger questions about how the international community defines cooperation, scientific exchange and collective preparedness in an era where health challenges increasingly affect all nations together. (The author is Director-General, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office Brisbane. The views expressed are his own.)
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FASHION
Alluring India: Fashioning 80 years of freedom
By Kanchan Kumar
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ighty years after India won its independence, the country's story is no longer told only through its political achievements or economic rise. It is increasingly expressed through its culture, creativity and confidence on the global stage. From yoga and Ayurveda to cinema, cuisine, literature and fashion, India today projects its identity through the quiet influence of soft power as much as through diplomacy. Against this backdrop, Alluring India – Australia Edition 2026, to be held at The Star Brisbane on August 16, assumes a significance that goes far beyond a fashion show. Organised to commemorate the 80th anniversary of India's Independence, the event is a celebration of a nation that has preserved its civilisational heritage while confidently embracing modernity. It is a reminder that India's journey over the past eight decades has been measured not only by economic progress and technological achievements, but also by the enduring vitality of its culture. Fashion as a celebration of freedom Independence Day is often associated with flag-hoisting ceremonies, patriotic songs and reflections on the sacrifices that secured India's freedom. Yet national anniversaries also provide an opportunity to celebrate the country's artistic achievements and cultural confidence. Fashion is one of the most compelling expressions of that confidence. India's textiles, handlooms and embroidery traditions are among the richest in
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the world. Banarasi silks, Kanjeevaram sarees, Bandhani, Chikankari, Phulkari, mirror work, Kashmiri embroidery and countless regional crafts represent centuries of artistic excellence handed down through generations. Every fabric tells a story of a region, every weave reflects a community, and every design carries the imprint of India's diverse civilisation. Presenting these traditions before an international audience is therefore far more than a display of beautiful garments. It is a celebration of India's cultural freedom, creativity and resilience. More than a runway Across the world, fashion has evolved beyond glamour and luxury. Today's major fashion showcases have become platforms for storytelling, cultural exchange and creative diplomacy. Runways are no longer simply spaces where designers unveil new collections. They have become stages where nations present their identity to the world. Fashion speaks a universal language. Colours, fabrics, craftsmanship and design transcend linguistic barriers and invite curiosity, appreciation and understanding. This is what gives Alluring India its broader significance. For audiences in Brisbane, the event offers an opportunity to experience India's artistic traditions in a contemporary setting. Rather than encountering India only through headlines about trade, technology or geopolitics, visitors will discover a civilisation whose creativity has flourished for centuries and continues to inspire global fashion. Celebrating India's journey
Independent India has travelled an extraordinary path over the past eighty years. From overcoming the challenges of Partition to becoming one of the world's fastest-growing major economies, India has demonstrated remarkable resilience. It has emerged as a leader in information technology, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, digital innovation and space exploration. Yet amid rapid modernisation, India has never lost sight of its cultural roots. Modern Indian fashion beautifully reflects this balance. Designers increasingly combine traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics, creating garments that honour heritage while appealing to global audiences. This fusion of tradition and innovation mirrors India's broader national journey—an India that is proudly rooted in its past while confidently shaping its future. Strengthening Australia–India connections The significance of Alluring India extends beyond the Indian community. Australia's multicultural society thrives because communities are encouraged to share their traditions while contributing to a common national identity. Cultural events play an essential role in building that understanding. For non-Indian Australians, the showcase offers a vibrant introduction to India's artistic heritage. For Indian Australians, it provides an opportunity to celebrate their roots while sharing them proudly with the wider community. Such exchanges strengthen the people-to-people ties that underpin the growing Australia– India relationship. While governments continue to expand cooperation in trade, education, defence and technology, cultural engagement remains equally important in building lasting friendships between societies. The confidence of a growing community The event also reflects the growing confidence of the Indian diaspora in Australia. Over the past two decades, Indian Australians have become one of the country's fastest-growing and most influential communities, contributing across healthcare, education, engineering, business, information technology, academia and public service. Their cultural presence has expanded alongside these achievements. Indian festivals, music, dance, cuisine and cinema now form an integral part of Australia's multicultural calendar. Alluring India represents another milestone in that journey, demonstrating that Indian creativity is increasingly finding a place on mainstream Australian platforms.
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Hosting the event at The Star Brisbane symbolises this growing visibility and recognition. Preserving heritage through fashion Behind every elegant garment lies the work of skilled artisans whose craftsmanship has been refined over generations. Across India, handloom weavers, embroiderers, textile artists and craftspeople continue to preserve traditions that might otherwise disappear in an era of mass production. International fashion showcases help sustain these traditions by introducing them to new audiences and creating fresh opportunities for artisans. In celebrating designers, Alluring India also honours the countless unnamed hands whose artistry has kept India's textile heritage alive for centuries. Soft power in action The event's association with the Consulate General of India in Brisbane underlines another
important reality. Modern diplomacy is no longer confined to political dialogue. Culture has become one of the most effective instruments of international engagement. Cinema, cuisine, yoga, literature, music and fashion all contribute to shaping perceptions of a nation. They foster goodwill and understanding in ways that formal diplomacy alone cannot achieve. Under the creative direction of Vinay Gupta, founder of Gait N Grace Lifestyle Impresario, Alluring India seeks to blend heritage with contemporary presentation, ensuring that the evening becomes not simply a fashion event but an immersive cultural experience. A meaningful tribute to 80 years of Independence Every nation chooses its own way to commemorate milestones in its history.
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Aug 16-31, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 1
TRAVEL
Ahmedabad: Where India’s timeless Ranchi: Where waterfalls, forests and tribal traditions heritage meets modern ambition
By Sushil Sharma
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he first rays of the morning sun gently illuminate the intricate stone lattice windows of the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque. A few kilometres away, traders prepare for another busy day in the bustling markets of the old city, where the aroma of freshly fried fafda and steaming jalebi fills the narrow lanes. Across the Sabarmati River, modern office towers reflect a different Ahmedabad—one driven by innovation, entrepreneurship and global commerce. Few Indian cities present such striking contrasts. In Ahmedabad, centuries-old traditions and contemporary aspirations exist side by side, creating a destination that offers visitors far more than monuments and museums. As India's first UNESCO World Heritage City, Ahmedabad is not merely a place to visit; it is a city to experience. Every street, monument and neighbourhood tells a story of merchants, saints, freedom fighters, architects and visionaries who shaped one of western India's most dynamic urban centres. Whether travellers seek history, spirituality, architecture, cuisine or business opportunities, Ahmedabad offers a journey through India's past while showcasing its future. A city shaped by six centuries of history Ahmedabad's story began in 1411 when Sultan Ahmed Shah established his capital on the banks of the Sabarmati River. Although the region had been inhabited long before, it was under his rule that the city emerged as a thriving centre of commerce, culture and architecture. Over the centuries, merchants from across Asia and beyond brought prosperity through the trade of cotton, silk and finely crafted textiles, earning Ahmedabad the title of the "Manchester of India." Today, traces of its glorious past remain woven into the fabric of everyday life. Exploring the timeless charm of the old city Walking through Ahmedabad's historic walled city is like stepping into a living museum. Its labyrinth of narrow lanes, known as pols, reflects a unique
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style of community living that has endured for generations. Intricately carved wooden houses, hidden courtyards and centuriesold bird feeders showcase remarkable craftsmanship and thoughtful urban planning. The experience is as much about the senses as it is about history. Temple bells blend harmoniously with the call to prayer from historic mosques, while shopkeepers welcome customers in bustling bazaars filled with colourful textiles and handcrafted goods. The aroma of roasted spices, freshly brewed tea and traditional snacks drifts through the air, creating an atmosphere that captures the soul of the city. Every corner reveals another story waiting to be discovered. Architectural masterpieces that tell a story Among Ahmedabad's finest architectural landmarks is the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, renowned for its exquisite stone lattice window known as the Tree of Life. Delicately carved from a single slab of stone, it has become an enduring symbol of the city and a masterpiece of Indo-Islamic craftsmanship. Nearby stands the magnificent Jama Masjid, one of India's finest examples of fifteenthcentury architecture. Its graceful arches, expansive courtyard and beautifully carved pillars reflect a harmonious blend of Hindu and Islamic artistic traditions. Together, these monuments illustrate Ahmedabad's long history as a meeting point of diverse cultures and faiths. Walking in the footsteps of Mahatma Gandhi No journey to Ahmedabad is complete without visiting the Sabarmati Ashram. Nestled on the tranquil banks of the Sabarmati River, the ashram served as Mahatma Gandhi's residence and became one of the principal centres of India's freedom movement. It was from here that Gandhi launched the historic Dandi Salt March in 1930, inspiring millions through his philosophy of truth and nonviolence. Today, visitors walk through modest rooms, view rare photographs and manuscripts, and gain a deeper understanding of the ideals that shaped India's struggle for independence. The
serenity of the ashram offers a powerful contrast to the bustle of the modern city. The Sabarmati Riverfront: A new urban landmark The Sabarmati Riverfront represents Ahmedabad's modern face. Once neglected and prone to flooding, the riverfront has been transformed into one of India's most successful urban renewal projects. Landscaped gardens, cycling tracks, promenades and cultural spaces now attract residents and visitors alike. As dusk settles over the city, families gather along the waterfront to enjoy cool breezes and spectacular views of Ahmedabad's illuminated skyline. A culinary journey through Gujarat's flavours Food is one of Ahmedabad's greatest attractions. The city celebrates vegetarian cuisine with remarkable diversity. Mornings often begin with crispy fafda paired with sweet jalebi, while throughout the day visitors savour dhokla, khaman, thepla, handvo and countless other Gujarati delicacies. As night falls, Manek Chowk transforms from a bustling jewellery market into one of India's most vibrant openair food destinations, serving an endless variety of traditional and contemporary street food. Ahmedabad is equally celebrated for its textile heritage. Colourful Bandhani fabrics, hand-block prints, embroidered garments and handcrafted souvenirs fill markets across the city. A short journey to nearby Patan introduces travellers to the world-famous Patola silk, one of India's finest handwoven textiles, admired for its intricate craftsmanship and vibrant geometric designs. Shopping here is not merely a retail experience but a journey into Gujarat's centuries-old artistic traditions. Where education and design flourish Ahmedabad has long been recognised as a centre of education, design and entrepreneurship. Prestigious institutions such as the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad and the National Institute of Design have earned international acclaim for nurturing business leaders, designers and innovators. Their presence reflects the city's ability to honour its traditions while embracing new ideas and technologies. Art enthusiasts will find equally rewarding experiences at the Calico Museum of Textiles, home to one of the world's finest collections of Indian fabrics, alongside contemporary galleries and cultural centres that celebrate both classical and modern artistic expression.
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shape every journey By Sushil Kumar
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he first rays of sunlight filter through towering sal forests as mist drifts across the Chotanagpur Plateau. In the distance, the thunder of cascading waterfalls echoes through the valleys, while birds welcome another day in the wilderness. A few kilometres away, colourful tribal markets begin to stir, their stalls filled with handcrafted jewellery, bamboo products, forest honey and freshly harvested produce. The aroma of traditional delicacies rises from roadside kitchens as the city slowly awakens. This is Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand—a destination where nature is not merely admired but woven into everyday life. Often called the 'City of Waterfalls', Ranchi offers a refreshing alternative to India's crowded tourist destinations. Here, dense forests, rocky hills, sparkling rivers and Indigenous traditions come together to create experiences that are both authentic and deeply enriching. Visitors soon discover that Ranchi is not defined by towering monuments or luxury resorts but by landscapes that inspire peace and communities that proudly preserve their cultural heritage. The heart of the Chotanagpur Plateau Situated nearly 700 metres above sea level, Ranchi enjoys a pleasant climate for much of the year. Surrounded by forests, rivers and undulating hills, the city owes much of its natural beauty to the Chotanagpur Plateau. During the British period, Ranchi became a favoured summer retreat because of its cool weather, and even today it offers a welcome escape from the intense heat experienced in many parts of eastern India. Modern Ranchi has grown into an important centre for education, administration and industry, yet it has managed to retain its close relationship with nature. Unlike many rapidly expanding cities, forests and open landscapes remain an integral part of its identity, giving visitors the rare opportunity to experience urban life without losing touch with the natural world. The land of roaring waterfalls Nature is Ranchi's greatest storyteller. Across the region, rivers plunge over ancient rocks to create some of eastern India's most spectacular waterfalls. During the monsoon and the months that follow, the sound of rushing water fills the forests as mist rises from deep gorges and rainbows shimmer in the morning light. Hundru Falls, formed by the Subarnarekha River, drops dramatically from a great height, creating one of Jharkhand's most
breathtaking natural spectacles. Dassam Falls captivates visitors with its powerful cascade surrounded by dense greenery, while Jonha Falls—also known as Gautamdhara—combines scenic beauty with spiritual significance. Hirni Falls offers tranquil forest surroundings, and Panch Gagh Falls charms visitors with five streams flowing gracefully over rocky formations. Standing beside these waterfalls, feeling the cool spray carried by the wind and listening to the constant roar of water, visitors quickly understand why Ranchi remains one of India's most rewarding destinations for nature lovers. Where tribal heritage lives on Ranchi's greatest cultural treasure lies in its people. Jharkhand is home to several Indigenous communities, including the Munda, Oraon, Santhal, Ho and Kharia tribes, whose traditions continue to shape the cultural identity of the region. Their relationship with forests, rivers and the land is reflected in every aspect of daily life, from music and dance to agriculture and craftsmanship. Festivals such as Sarhul, which celebrates the arrival of spring, and Karma, dedicated to prosperity and community harmony, fill villages with vibrant dances, rhythmic drumbeats and colourful traditional attire. Visitors are welcomed into celebrations where culture is not performed for tourists but lived with pride by local communities. The region is also known for Sohrai and Khovar paintings, beautiful Indigenous art forms created using natural colours and traditional techniques. These artistic traditions, along with bamboo crafts, woodwork and handcrafted ornaments, reflect centuries of knowledge passed from one generation to the next. The Tribal Research Institute and Museum offers visitors a deeper understanding of Jharkhand's Indigenous heritage, preserving stories that continue to define the soul of the state.
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INDIA NEWS
ARTS, CULTURE
Delhi: NDMC VC inaugurates ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ art exhibition
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nspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of “Har Ghar Tiranga” and “Developed India 2047”, New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) Vice Chairman (VC) Kuljeet Singh Chahal inaugurated an art exhibition at Janpath Subway Art Gallery, Connaught Place, an official said on Tuesday. “Har Ghar Tiranga 2026 – Art Exhibition & Live Painting Workshop” at the subway art gallery was organised by the NDMC in association with Nav Siddharth Art Group. After lighting the lamp and
inaugurating the exhibition, Chahal said that this 10-day art exhibition, organised on the occasion of India's 80th Independence Day, is inspired by PM Modi's Har Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan. "The tricolour is not only our national flag, but a symbol of our collective pride, aspirations and unity. Prime Minister Modi's Har Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan has strengthened the emotional attachment to the tricolour in the minds of every citizen. Through this exhibition, NDMC is giving artists a platform to express their feelings through colours and creativity and reaching out to the people in a unique way,” he said. He said that developed India is not only about economic progress, but also about cultural awareness, national pride and public participation.
Chahal said that more than 50 works by 10 prominent artists have been displayed in this exhibition, themed around the colours of the tricolour, India's cultural heritage, the freedom movement, and unity, diversity, and a sense of patriotism. Based on the theme “Art Expression Patriotism”, the exhibition offers visitors a unique artistic experience through the tricolour. Chahal said that through their paintings and creative expressions, artists have conveyed the sentiments associated with the national flag and the feeling of a confident, vibrant and united India. This initiative is part of NDMC's continuous efforts to promote art and culture in public spaces and make cultural activities accessible to common people, he said.
State-of-the-art studio will make Mumbai global hub of creative economy: CM Fadnavis
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ealising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision to transform India into a global hub for the creative economy requires state-of-the-art technology and world-class infrastructure. The launch of Prime Focus's new cutting-edge studio at Film City in Goregaon marks a major milestone in this direction, significantly empowering Mumbai to become a global centre for creative industries, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said here on Thursday. He was speaking after inauguration of the first phase of Prime Focus's world-class studio facility situated in the Film City complex. Chief Minister Fadnavis remarked that Prime Focus's objective to
serve the global entertainment and creative sectors by establishing a world-class facility in Mumbai has materialised today. Assuring that the state government provided all necessary assistance to complete the project on schedule, the Chief Minister highlighted that the first phase was delivered in just one year following the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed during the 'WAVES 2025' summit. He added that Indian culture, heritage, and history store countless inspiring narratives, and cutting-edge technology paired with a robust creative ecosystem is vital to bringing these stories to the global stage. Making a special mention of the film 'Ramayana'—one of the
world's largest cinematic coproduction projects currently being produced at the studio -- CM Fadnavis congratulated the entire production team, expressing confidence that the film would serve as a benchmark for Indian creativity worldwide. Reaffirming the state government's commitment to nurturing youth creativity, generating new employment opportunities, and fostering an ecosystem for the entertainment industry, the Chief Minister announced that a comprehensive redevelopment plan to convert Film City into a world-class creative and entertainment hub would be finalised soon. Praising the initiative by Prime Focus, Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar noted that the project represents a seamless integration of culture and advanced technology. He said that overseeing both Cultural Affairs as well as the IT, AI, and Electronics portfolios allowed him to witness an ideal model of culture and technology uniting to create value for society.
He said that a special highlight of the programme is the “Live Painting Workshop”, where artists will create patriotic paintings using only the colours of the tricolour — saffron, white, green and blue of the Ashok Chakra. This performance will be a powerful artistic expression of unity, independence and the collective spirit of India. Chahal said that this initiative has transformed an important public space in Connaught Place into a vibrant cultural centre, and it inspires youth, families, art lovers and tourists to participate in tricolour celebrations at every home through creativity. While interacting with the young artists, Chahal said that they are the creative ambassadors of a developed and culturally rich India. He called upon the students,
young artists and art lovers to actively participate in such initiatives and make art a medium to express their thoughts, feelings and patriotism. He said that such forums connect the youth with India's heritage, values and national spirit along with identifying new talents. He also said that encouraging young artists is an important step towards promoting creativity, innovation and cultural confidence in line with the vision of Developed India 2047. Art and Culture Adviser Harsh Vardhan Sharma said that NDMC had organised art exhibitions in the subway in 2023 as well, which were later closed for some reason. Now, through the Department of Arts and Culture, this tradition is being reintroduced to give opportunities to artists and make public spaces more vibrant and culturally attractive.
MP: Artists from 6 BRICS nations showcase culture in Bhopal
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rtists from six BRICS member and participating countries showcased their rich cultural traditions through music, dance and folk performances at the BRICS Cultural Festival in Bhopal on Thursday, highlighting the role of culture in strengthening people-to-people ties. Organised by the Ministry of Culture under India’s BRICS Presidency 2026, the festival was held at Ravindra Bhavan on the second day of the four-day meeting of the BRICS Cultural Working Group. Cultural delegations from Belarus, Brazil, Indonesia, Russia, the United Arab Emirates and India presented performances reflecting their artistic traditions before a packed audience. The festival began with a parade of participating countries, with
artists dressed in traditional attire introducing audiences to the cultural diversity of their nations. Belarus presented folk songs and traditional dances rooted in its heritage, while Brazil performed Capoeira, the Afro-Brazilian art form combining martial arts, music, dance and acrobatics. Indonesia showcased the Balinese welcome dance Pushpanjali and later staged the Javanese dance-drama The Legend of Roro Jonggrang, based on one of the country’s well-known folk legends. Russia’s National Academic Folk Instruments Orchestra performed compositions using traditional instruments, including the balalaika, bayan, alto domra and contrabass balalaika. The United Arab Emirates was represented by musician Saif AlAli, whose performance blended traditional Emirati and Arab musical forms with contemporary elements. India concluded the individual performances with Maru Rang – Heritage of Rajasthan, featuring folk dances such as Ghoomar, Chari, Kalbelia and Bhavai.
Piyush Goyal showcases Jaipur’s Sanganeri heritage at BRICS meet dignitaries attending the BRICS Trade and Industry Ministers’ Meeting in Jaipur.
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nion Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted India’s rich handloom heritage on National Handloom Day by presenting hand-printed Jaipur Sanganeri shawls to visiting www.indianews.com.au
Sharing the gesture on social media platform X, Goyal wrote, “Proudly Indian, Proudly Sanganeri.” He said the handcrafted shawls were gifted to the visiting ministers and delegates as a tribute to Rajasthan’s centuries-old textile tradition and the craftsmanship of local artisans. “On the occasion of National Handloom Day, I gifted beautiful hand-printed Jaipur Sanganeri shawls to the visiting dignitaries
at the BRICS India 2026 Trade and Industry Ministers’ Meeting. Our skilled artisans carry forward a legacy of unmatched, timeless craftsmanship,” Goyal posted. The symbolic presentation of Sanganeri shawls coincided with the successful conclusion of the 16th BRICS Trade Ministers’ Meeting, hosted by India under its BRICS Chairship 2026. The meeting brought together trade ministers and senior officials from all BRICS member countries to discuss strengthening economic cooperation, resilient supply
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chains and reforms in the multilateral trading system. The Sanganeri shawls, known for their intricate hand-block printing, natural dyes and elegant floral motifs, represent one of Rajasthan’s most celebrated traditional crafts. Originating from Sanganer, near Jaipur, the textile art has earned national and international recognition for its distinctive craftsmanship and continues to support thousands of artisan families. The presentation also reflected the Government of India’s
emphasis on promoting indigenous crafts and handloom products under the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative. Celebrated every year on August 7, National Handloom Day honours India’s centuries-old weaving traditions and recognises the contribution of handloom weavers and artisans to the country’s cultural and economic heritage. By choosing locally crafted Sanganeri shawls as official gifts for international delegates, India showcased not only Rajasthan’s artistic excellence but also
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SPORTS
Golf: Pranavi Urs climbs leaderboard Hockey WC 2026: India will take motivation from 1975 triumph, says as Swiss Ladies Open takes shape coach Fulton ahead of opener
Holzhausern (Switzerland), Aug 14 (IANS) Pranavi Urs made a steady move up the leaderboard in the second round of the Swiss Ladies Open, reaching 2-under for the tournament through 27 holes and moving to around T-24 midway through her second round. The Indian, who opened with
a 1-under 70, made birdies on the third and fifth holes before dropping a shot on the ninth to turn in 1-under 34. Tvesa Malik, runner-up at this event in 2024, was level par through three holes of her second round and remained around T-68, leaving her with work to do to make the cut. Diksha Dagar, the highestranked Indian in the field, was facing a tougher challenge. After opening with a 1-over 71, she was 4-over through six holes of her second round and 4-over for the tournament, putting her in danger of missing the cut. Sweden's Kajsa Arwefjäll continued her impressive run at Golfpark Holzhäusern, following her opening 7-under 64 with a 6-under 66 to reach 13-under and take a three-shot lead.
Arwefjäll produced eight birdies against just one bogey across her second round and maintained the momentum that carried her to a T-10 finish at last week's PIF London Championship. The 12th-ranked player on the Ladies European Tour Order of Merit is familiar with the course, having finished runner-up here last year behind Alice Hewson. She has also enjoyed a strong season, including another runner-up finish at the Ladies Classic in Mauritius. Australia's Whitney Hillier was her closest challenger at 10-under after rounds of 66 and 67, while Spain's Luna Sobron Galmes was also making a strong move. After opening with a 65, she was 3-under through six holes of her second round and 9-under overall.
Afghanistan seal 2027 ODI World Cup spot after Rashid Khan-inspired thriller against Ireland
Belfast, Aug 11 (IANS) Afghanistan booked their place at the 2027 ODI World Cup in Southern Africa after a thrilling three-wicket victory over Ireland in the second match of their five-game series, with captain Rashid Khan once again proving decisive with both bat and ball. This victory secures Afghanistan's place in the 2027 ODI World Cup in Southern Africa. They will make
their fourth straight appearance at the tournament and take a strong 2-0 lead in the five-match series against Ireland. Rashid took three wickets, helping Afghanistan limit Ireland to 206. He then scored an unbeaten 37 as Afghanistan chased down the target with more than five overs to spare. This win gave Afghanistan a 2-0 lead in the series and guaranteed their spot in a fourth consecutive World Cup. Rashid had previously claimed six wickets in the second match of the series, showcasing his impressive form ahead of next year’s ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. After trailing 1-0 in the series, Ireland put up a strong fight after Afghanistan seemed to be in control. From 97 for 2, Ireland’s innings looked shaky until young
Gavin Hoey stepped up with an excellent spell of legspin. Hoey’s flight, dip, and sharp turn caused difficulties for Afghanistan. His figures of 4 for 34 in the middle overs brought Ireland back into the game. This included the important wicket of Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who scored 71. Hoey received good support from seamer Mark Adair, who continued to find small deviations from the pitch. However, after Hoey finished his spell by the 33rd over, Ireland ran out of effective bowlers as Afghanistan kept their composure. Ireland’s innings was saved by a record ninth-wicket partnership between Hoey and Jai Moondra. With Ireland struggling at 128 for 8 against Afghanistan’s spinners, the duo added 76 runs for the ninth wicket.
‘I’m good enough at this level’: Beau Webster confident of cementing Australia Test spot against Bangladesh
Darwin, Aug 11 (IANS) Australia all-rounder Beau Webster believes he has already proved that he belongs at international level and is determined to use the upcoming two-Test series against Bangladesh to strengthen his claim for a permanent place in the side. Webster made his Test debut at the start of last year and has had a mix of highs and lows in his first eight matches. Now 32 years old, he aims to build on those
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experiences as Australia enters a challenging stretch of Test cricket, starting with Bangladesh this month, followed by tough matches against South Africa, New Zealand, and India. “The biggest thing I’ve learned since making my debut is that I’m good enough at this level,” Webster said on Tuesday. “You never really know. In the lead-up to that first Test, the question was, ‘do you feel ready?’ I was telling myself ‘absolutely,’ but you don’t really know until you face bowlers from other countries and find yourself in high-pressure situations with big crowds where you’re expected to perform. That was the most important takeaway from the last 12 months.”
Webster’s confidence has grown from a strong start to his international career. He was the top scorer for Australia in the first innings of their loss to South Africa in last year’s World Test Championship Final at Lord’s and helped Australia sweep the West Indies in the Caribbean. However, he later found himself left out of Australia’s preferred XI during the Ashes at the end of 2025, with Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, and Usman Khawaja being favored. Webster returned for the final Ashes Test in Sydney and seized his chance, scoring an unbeaten 71 and taking three wickets. This performance has boosted his belief that he can maintain his spot in Australia’s strong Test team.
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Amsterdam, Aug 14 (IANS) Ahead of India's opening Pool D match in the FIH Men's Hockey World Cup 2026, being played in Belgium and the Netherlands, head coach Craig Fulton said his team will take "real motivation" from the country's triumph in the World Cup in 1975. Eight-time Olympic gold medallists India are celebrating the golden jubilee of their 1975 World Cup triumph, and coach Fulton said that triumph will be a big inspiration for the 2026 campaign, which they will start against Wales at the Wagener Hockey Stadium in Amstelveen, Netherlands, on Saturday. On the eve of the opening match, India coach Fulton and Wales head coach Danny Newcombe shared their thoughts on their upcoming match, their overall
campaign and their preparations for the tournament. England and Pakistan are the other two teams in the four-team group. The Indian coach said his team's preparations have been "centred on consistency, sharper decisionmaking under pressure" and embedding their "press-counteroutcome philosophy". "This is a special year for us — 50 years since India's World Cup triumph — and that history gives real motivation to this campaign. Our preparation has centred on consistency, sharper decisionmaking under pressure and embedding our press-counteroutcome philosophy. Fulton said the team will be taking it one match at a time so as to put themselves in the best position to compete for the title. "The players' commitment has been excellent — they're driving standards and pushing each other daily. We know how tough the competition will be, but we trust our process. Our approach is simple: one game at a time, all in, honour that legacy, and put ourselves in the best position to compete for the title," he said.
Football: Coach Terzic targets European return with Athletic Club
Madrid, Aug 14 (IANS) Edin Terzic, the New coach of Athletic Bilbao, has backed his side to challenge for European qualification in the upcoming La Liga season. The former Borussia Dortmund coach took charge of the Basque club this summer after Ernesto Valverde stepped down following the fourth season of his third spell in charge. Athletic Club struggled for consistency in 2025-26 and finished 12th in La Liga, but Terzic has been encouraged by a preseason campaign in which his side suffered only one defeat. "The team, based on quality, is ready to play in Europe," the German said, a week before Athletic opens its league campaign at home to Sevilla. "If we deserve it, it will be because we work harder and better, and that will prepare us. Europe is one of our objectives." Terzic also said he had been struck by the bond between Athletic and its supporters since arriving in Bilbao. "I see the connection people have with the club, and you feel the pride. It doesn't matter how old you are, whether you're a man, woman, boy or girl, everyone feels a connection to the club, and that
makes me very proud to coach this team." The 43-year-old played down the pressure surrounding his new role, saying his own expectations were greater than any imposed by supporters. "In football, everyone talks about pressure, but there's pressure in everything in life. I don't feel that external pressure; the pressure is internal. Nobody can put more pressure on me than I put on myself," he said. Earlier, Athletic Club announced that central defender Yeray Alvarez has signed a new contract through June 2028. The deal ends uncertainty over the future of the 31-year-old, who has spent his entire career at the club and made 259 first-team appearances. That total would have been higher but for two spells of cancer treatment. Yeray was also sidelined until April this season after serving a 10-month UEFA suspension for testing positive for a banned substance, which was contained in medication he was taking to prevent hair loss following his treatment. "Yeray is always a reliable performer. He's a centre-back who wins his duels, has great concentration and a winning mentality. He has shown tremendous resilience in overcoming adversity throughout his career," sporting director Mikel Gonzalez said on the club's website.
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COMMONWEALTH GAMES 2026
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SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Indian govt asks meta to align India ranks 1st in ship recycling content policies with Indian laws globally, aims to double its capacity
New Delhi, Aug 11 (IANS) India ranked first globally in ship recycling in 2025, as the country’s share of global ship recycling increased from 30.1 per cent in 2024 to 35.4 per cent in 2025, marking a significant milestone in the country’s maritime and industrial development, an official factsheet said on Tuesday. Ship recycling volume in India also increased from 1.86 million
Gross Tonnes (GT) in 2024 to 2.99 million GT in 2025. This represents nearly 60 per cent growth in recycling volume. The statement said that the Alang-Sosiya ship recycling cluster in Gujarat forms the backbone of India’s recycling capacity. It is recognised as the world’s largest ship recycling hub. The cluster accounts for approximately 98 per cent of India’s ship recycling activity. It has an annual recycling capacity of around 6 million GT. “Around 3.50 million metric
tonnes (MMT) of steel is produced per annum at Alang without exploiting natural resources. It is supported by authorised ship recycling yards, downstream steel re-rolling mills, and waste management infrastructure,” the factsheet informed. Over the years, the cluster has undergone extensive modernisation and represents India’s primary interface with the global ship recycling market. India aims to nearly double its ship recycling capacity to about 9 million light displacement tonnes (LDT).
Adani Group selects 1st cohort for ‘Vande Bharatam’ innovation initiative
Ahmedabad, Aug 11 (IANS) The Adani Group has selected the first cohort of innovators under its flagship entrepreneurship initiative, 'Vande Bharatam', after receiving more than 26,000 applications from across India. The programme, launched by Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani, aims to identify and nurture grassroots innovators and entrepreneurs with the potential to solve real-world challenges and build impactful businesses. According to the group, applications were received from every state and Union Territory, covering a wide range of sectors
including mobility, sustainability, technology, agriculture, defence, healthcare, manufacturing, and education. The selected participants represent diverse regions, backgrounds, and disciplines, united by a common goal of creating solutions that can contribute to India's development and generate large-scale impact. The initiative is designed to provide promising innovators with access to mentorship, industry expertise, networking opportunities and visibility, helping them transform their ideas into viable enterprises. The programme reflects the Adani Group's vision of creating opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs and supporting innovation beyond traditional startup hubs. Speaking on the launch of the first cohort, Gautam Adani said
the selected innovators represent the immense potential of India's future. The Adani Group Chairman noted that talent is not confined to major cities and that opportunities should be equally accessible to innovators from all parts of the country. Gautam Adani expressed confidence that members of the inaugural cohort could go on to build companies capable of making a significant contribution to India's growth story. The innovators were chosen through a multi-stage evaluation process and will now participate in the ‘Vande Bharatam Immersive Week’, a programme featuring mentorship sessions, interactions with business leaders, entrepreneurs and domain experts, along with further assessments and development opportunities.
Bridging innovation and commercial scale key to clean energy transition: Industry leaders
New Delhi, Aug 5 (IANS) Industry leaders on Wednesday stressed the need to accelerate the transition of new energy technologies from evaluation to large-scale commercial adoption, saying the biggest challenge is not innovation but bridging the gap between proven technologies and widespread deployment. Speaking at the Think Change Forum on "New Energy: Taking It from Evaluation to Adoption", Dr. Ajay Mathur, former Director General of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), said new technologies must be rigorously evaluated during
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their development, but once they have matured and proven to be cost-effective, the focus should shift towards scaling up their deployment. He said technologies continue to evolve throughout the innovation journey, making evaluation essential. However, he noted that once a technology has demonstrated its maturity and economic viability, extending the evaluation phase unnecessarily can delay its wider adoption. According to him, largescale deployment of proven technologies is now the key priority. "It is equally important to continue assessing emerging technologies while ensuring that mature solutions reach the market as early as possible," Mathur added. He said discussions at forums such as these can provide valuable
insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders and technology developers. Echoing similar views, AK Saxena, Senior Director at TERI, said many promising technologies fail to reach the adoption stage despite showing potential during trials. He said this often happens because of inadequate investment, policy bottlenecks, lack of commercial confidence or technologies not yet being fully proven. Saxena said the primary challenge is to create a bridge between emerging technologies and commercial-scale deployment. He added that discussions at the forum largely focused on identifying ways to overcome these barriers and accelerate the transition from innovation to widespread market adoption, enabling new energy technologies to contribute more effectively to the clean energy ecosystem.
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New Delhi, Aug 11 (IANS) The government has asked Meta to align its content policies and enforcement mechanisms with Indian laws and the country's cultural context, while making it clear that it has not sought any overhaul of the social media giant's algorithms. The discussions between the government and Meta are expected to continue, with a strong focus on strengthening safeguards against harmful content, improving regulatory compliance and enhancing transparency around the platform's content moderation and recommendation systems, according to NDTV Profit report. A key area of concern for the government is the growing threat posed by deepfake content. Reports said authorities have urged Meta to introduce a "human-in-the-loop" review mechanism for suspected deepfakes, ensuring that decisions on takedowns are not based solely on automated systems. The government believes human oversight is necessary to prevent
erroneous moderation actions and improve accountability. The government has also conveyed that content shared by prominent verified accounts should not be automatically classified as deepfakes. Instead, such content should undergo appropriate human review before any enforcement action is taken, reports said. In addition, Meta has been asked to put in place specific measures to ensure that deepfake content identified and removed from its platforms does not reappear or continue to circulate through repeat uploads. Authorities have reiterated their zero-tolerance stance on child sexual abuse material (CSAM), stressing that there can be no compromise when it comes to detecting, removing and acting against such content. The issue remains a top priority in the government's engagement with the company, according to report. The government has also sought greater clarity on how Meta's algorithms function, particularly the way content is surfaced, ranked and recommended to users. Officials are understood to be seeking increased transparency around the systems that influence content visibility and user engagement across the platform.
India spearheads Global South’s big push for renewable energy
New Delhi, Aug 11 (IANS) India is leading the Global South in promoting cooperation for the sustainable use of renewable resources which are gaining further importance in the backdrop of the Middle East crisis that has led to disruptions in energy supplies, according to an article in The Manila Times. The article, which describes India as a “technology and knowledgesharing hub,” highlights that along with France, India cofounded the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in 2015 and hosts ISA’s world headquarters in Greater Delhi (NCR). The treaty-based intergovernmental organisation is now composed of 124 signatory member countries, and it aims to mobilise $1 trillion in solar investments by 2030, primarily through its Global Solar Facility, a payment guarantee fund created by ISA to stimulate solar power projects. India’s efforts have been lauded at a time when the Manila-based ADB and Asian countries are working for a major thrust to
renewable energy resources. In November 2026, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy will launch the Bharat Renewable Energy Summit & Expo in New Delhi. More than 50,000 delegates are expected to attend this event, which will take place alongside the 9th session of the ISA Assembly and the 4th International Conference on Green Hydrogen, the article states. The article underscores that India and the Philippines have forged a substantive relationship in the field of clean energy as operationalised through the Joint Working Group on Renewable Energy. Major bilateral partnerships have also been established by India with the European Union, Australia, Germany and the Netherlands. These include the new energy accord signed recently with Australia covering renewables and critical minerals, the article by By J. Albert Gamboa further states. Domestic momentum backs India’s ambition of achieving netzero greenhouse gas emissions by 2070. Originally part of the subcontinent’s climate action plan, this long-term vision requires a massive structural overhaul of the country’s energy, transport and industrial sectors.
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HEALTH
Ayush aims to become integral part of Kerala govt takes first step to set up AYUSH University broader digital health ecosystems
New Delhi, July 14 (IANS) Incorporating standardised health terminologies will ensure Ayush interventions become an integral part of broader digital health ecosystems, matching modern health informatics standards, according to Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush. The Ayush Ministry has launched
a five-day workshop on WHOICHI Framework for Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani systems, which marks an important step towards positioning India's traditional medicine systems within the global digital health ecosystem and universal health coverage frameworks. Kotecha said that this initiative is much more than a coding exercise. “It represents a transformational step towards positioning India's traditional medical systems within the global scientific, digital, and policy ecosystem,” he said at the inaugural session.
Dr Kavita Jain, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, detailed the long-term policy impacts of incorporating traditional practices into digital documentation and global health systems. Global operational context was shared by Dr. Geeta Krishnan, Unit Head, GTMC Jamnagar, alongside key addresses from WHO representatives Dr. Robert Jakob, Data Standards and Informatics Team Leader, and Dr Stephane Espinosa, Consultant, WHO, who focused on global interoperability and alignment with digital informatics.
Maha Health Dept explores Kerala’s best practices to strengthen public healthcare
Mumbai, Aug 10 (IANS) In a move towards making Maharashtra’s public healthcare system more accessible, efficient, technology‑driven and citizen‑centric, a delegation from the Public Health Department undertook a study visit to Kerala from August 6 to 8. The visit aimed to understand best practices, systems, and implementation mechanisms adopted in Kerala in primary healthcare, digital health,
diagnostics, disease control, and public health management, and to explore how suitable practices can be adapted to Maharashtra’s needs. The delegation was led by E. Ravindran, Secretary‑II, Public Health Department, and Sanjay Shripatrao Katkar, Commissioner, Health Services and Mission Director, National Health Mission, Maharashtra. Senior officials and technical experts from the Health Services Commissionerate were also part of the team. A key area of study was Kerala’s Family Health Centre (FHC) model, under which primary health facilities provide preventive, promotive, diagnostic, curative and follow‑up services.
The delegation studied how these centres integrate services such as screening and management of non‑communicable diseases, counselling, maternal and child healthcare and regular follow‑up under one platform. The functioning of Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and their role in delivering comprehensive primary healthcare at the community level was also examined, said the health department release. The delegation also studied eHealth Kerala, an integrated digital health platform that connects health facilities and enables better management of digital health records, referrals and patient information.
Hyderabad, Aug 3 (IANS) Setting a new benchmark for public healthcare institutions across India, Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS) in Hyderabad has achieved a milestone of 1,000 robotic-assisted surgeries in less than three years, the Telangana government said on Monday. The landmark reflects its commitment to making advanced healthcare accessible to all and represents a revolutionary advancement in public healthcare, making world-class robotic surgery accessible to patients who previously could not afford such cutting-edge treatment, the government said. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, who is the President of Governing Council of NIMS, commended NIMS Director and the Senior Professor of Urology & Renal Transplantation, and Robotic Surgery Coordinator, Dr Rahul Devraj, along with the Departments of Urology, Surgical Gastroenterology, Surgical
Kerala govt takes first step to set up AYUSH University
Processed foods, sedentary lifestyles fueling India’s metabolic crisis: Health expert
Hyderabad, Aug 4 (IANS) A paradigm shift in dietary habits, increasing consumption of processed foods, and widespread sedentary lifestyles are severely impacting India's metabolic health, a health expert said on Tuesday. In an interview with IANS, Dr. Kalapala, Consultant Gastroenterologist and Director Center for Obesity and Metabolic Therapy at the Asian Institute of Gastroenterology (AIG Hospitals), warned that obesity should no longer be viewed in isolation, but as a complex metabolic disease affecting organs from head to toe. Highlighting the dangers of modern dietary patterns, Dr. Kalapala noted that heavily processed foods laden with high carbohydrates, bad fats, and
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refined sugars dominate markets across both urban and rural areas. "The processed food itself will increase cravings because of delayed satiety," said Dr. Kalapala, who is the Vice Chair of American Bariatric Endoscopy and Fellow of American, European and Japanese Endoscopy Societies . "Once you consume these foods, which have high carbs, high fats, and that too bad fats with no proteins, this will take a toll on the metabolic health of the body, leading to weight gain, fatty liver, diabetes, and other systemic involvement." Dr. Kalapala emphasised that even individuals identifying as pure vegetarians or teetotalers who neither smoke nor consume alcohol are falling prey to metabolic disorders. "Because of this food change, sedentary lifestyle, and widespread stress, it leads to metabolic changes, mainly fatty liver," he explained. "The liver, when it contains fat, remains silent until detected through ultrasound or liver function tests.
By the time a person knows, the liver is already damaged." He added that modern stress significantly exacerbates the crisis through the gut-brain axis, noting that "stress is something which will precipitate and make people crave more and eat more," while discouraging physical activity. Further addressing the younger demographic, Dr. Kalapala pointed to alarming statistics from ICMR and National Family Health Survey studies, showing childhood obesity rates touching 15 to 18 percent in India. Crucially, he noted that the roots of childhood obesity often begin in the womb. "If the mother is overweight during pregnancy, the same thing transmits to the fetus, and then the child who is born—from then itself childhood obesity starts," he said, adding that coupled with academic pressures and a lack of school playgrounds, children enter their teenage years already facing severe metabolic shifts.
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Oncology, Anaesthesiology, Nursing Services, Operation Theatre staff, and all supporting departments for their exceptional dedication, teamwork, and commitment in accomplishing this historic feat. The Chief Minister described this achievement as a transformative moment in public healthcare, bringing world-class robotic surgery within the reach of patients who could never have otherwise afforded such advanced treatment. According to the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), he noted that the milestone is a testament to NIMS' unwavering pursuit of excellence, innovation, and equitable healthcare delivery. By integrating cutting-edge robotic technology into routine clinical practice, NIMS has enhanced surgical precision, reduced postoperative pain and blood loss, shortened hospital stays, and enabled faster recovery. Of the 1,000 robotic-assisted surgeries, 590 were performed by the Department of Urology, 248 by Surgical Gastroenterology, and 162 by Surgical Oncology, covering a wide spectrum of complex urological, gastrointestinal, hepatobiliary, pancreatic, colorectal, gynaecological, and oncological procedures.
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 4 (IANS) Kerala has taken the first formal step towards establishing an independent AYUSH University, a move expected to give a major boost to education, research and innovation in the country’s traditional systems of medicine. Health and Devaswom Minister K. Muraleedharan on Tuesday announced the constitution of a four‑member committee to draft legislation for the proposed university. The panel has been asked to submit the draft Kerala AYUSH University Bill within two months. The proposed university will bring under one umbrella all AYUSH educational institutions in the state currently affiliated to the Kerala University of Health Sciences (KUHS). It is envisaged as a specialised institution to coordinate academic programmes, clinical training, research, drug development and policy initiatives
in Ayurveda, Homoeopathy, Siddha, Unani and other recognised AYUSH streams. Calling it a historic step in strengthening Kerala’s traditional healthcare systems, the minister said the university would create an integrated academic ecosystem capable of meeting international standards in teaching and research. The university is proposed to be headquartered at the School of Fundamental Research in Ayurveda at Tripunithura. Besides framing the legislation, the committee will examine governance structure, academic framework, research priorities and administrative systems before submitting its recommendations. The committee will be chaired by the Principal Secretary, AYUSH Department, with the State Mission Director of the National AYUSH Mission serving as convener. The Director of Ayurvedic Medical Education and the Principal and Controlling Officer of the Government Homoeopathic Medical College are the other members. The university is expected to strengthen interdisciplinary research, improve the quality of AYUSH education and expand opportunities for clinical studies and pharmaceutical innovation.
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INDIA NEWS
AWARAPAN 2 RELEASE DATE: 14 August 2026 LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)
KING
RELEASE DATE: 24 December 2026 LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English
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PRODUCER: Mukesh Bhatt, Vishesh Bhatt DIRECTOR: Nitin Kakkar CAST: Emraan Hashmi, Disha Patani, Shabana Azmi
Subtitles) PRODUCER: Red Chillies Entertainment & Marflix Pictures DIRECTOR: Siddharth Anand CAST: Shah Rukh Khan
DAAYRA RELEASE DATE: 18 September 2026 LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles) PRODUCER: Vineet Jain and Jayantilal Gada
VVAN - FORCE OF THE FOREST
RELEASE DATE: 25 September 2026 LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles) PRODUCER: Ekta R Kapoor, Shobha Kapoor,
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DIRECTOR: Meghna Gulzar CAST: Kareena Kapoor Khan, Prithviraj Sukumaran, and others
Deepak Kumar Mishra, Arunabh Kumar DIRECTOR: Arunabh Kumar and Deepak Kumar Mishra CAST: Sidharth Malhotra, Tamannaah Bhatia, and others
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Patna: Police personnel celebrate after participating in the 80th Independence Day celebrations at Gandhi Maidan in Patna on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
Aug 16-31, 2026 - Vol-7, Issue 1
New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu during the ‘At Home’ reception on the occasion of India’s 80th Independence Day, at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre (RBCC), in New Delhi, on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu poses for a photograph with students during her visit to the Air Force Bal Bharati School in New Delhi on Wednesday, July 29, 2026.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former President Ram Nath Kovind during the release of the latter’s autobiography,
Puducherry: Union Home Minister Amit Shah during the ceremony for the presentation of the President’s Colour to Puducherry Police, in Puducherry, on Sunday, August 9, 2026.
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Guwahati: Security personnel take part in the Independence Day parade at Veterinary College field in Guwahati, Assam, on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi assresses the 80th Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort in New Delhi on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
Varanasi: School students holding Tricolour flags take part in a Tiranga Yatra from Ausanganj ahead of Independence Day, in Varanasi, on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.
Hanoi: Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh meets Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army and Deputy Minister of National Defence General Nguyễn Tân Cương during his official visit to Vietnam, in Hanoi, on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.
PHOTO FEATURE
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with 2026 Commonwealth Games gold medallist para shot putter Soman Rana and silver medallist para shot putter Shubham Juyal during a high tea at his residence in New Delhi on Sunday, August 9, 2026.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with medal winners of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games at his official residence in New Delhi, on Sunday, August 9, 2026.
Deoghar: Devotees, also known as ‘Kanwariyas’, gather to offer Ganga River water at a temple on the second Somwar of the holy month of Shravan in Deoghar, Jharkhand, on Monday, August 10, 2026.
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Jammu: A devotee offers prayers at Shambu Temple on the second ‘Somwar’ of the holy month of Shravan in Jammu on Monday, August 10, 2026.
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BOLLYWOOD COVERAGE
Mumbai: Actors Ali Fazal & Samira Khan Mahi at the special screening of Batwara 1947 in Mumbai, on Friday, August 14, 2026.
Mumbai: Actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol & Rajveer Deol at the special screening of Batwara 1947 in Mumbai, on Friday, August 14, 2026.
Mumbai: Actress Ahsaas Channa at her birthday bash in Mumbai, Maharashtra, on Tuesday, August 4, 2026.
Mumbai: Actor Sadia Khateeb at the Grace Bright OTT & Style Awards 2026 in Mumbai on Monday, August 10, 2026.
Mumbai: Actor and filmmaker Farhan Akhtar along with other cast and crew members during the trailer launch of Mirzapur: The Movie in Mumbai on Tuesday, August 11, 2026.
New Delhi: Actor Siddharth and her wife and actress Aditi Rao Hydari during the promotional event for the upcoming Netflix series ‘Operation Safed Sagar’ at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Thursday, August 6, 2026.
Jalandhar: Bollywood actors Sunny Deol, Preity Zinta interact with students during Freshers’ Induction 2026 at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Jalandhar on Saturday, August 8, 2026. The actors also promoted their upcoming film Batwara 1947.
Mumbai: Actor Shilpa Shetty attends the screening of the film The Great Punjab Robbery in Mumbai on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.
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Mumbai: Actress Daisy Shah poses on the red carpet during the 12th International Iconic Awards 2026 in Mumbai, Maharashtra, on Tuesday, August 4, 2026.
Mumbai: Actress and dancer Nora Fatehi arrives at the airport in Mumbai on Tuesday, August 4, 2026.
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Mumbai: Actor Kanika Mann at one8 Commune in Juhu, Mumbai, on Sunday, August 09, 2026.
Patna: Actor Sunny Deol and his son, actor Karan Deol, during the promotion of their upcoming film Batwara 1947 in Patna on Sunday, August 2, 2026.
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INDIA NEWS
Siddharth calls being a part of Operation Safed Sagar an ‘Unbelievable Privilege’
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s Siddharth's latest web series, 'Operation Safed Sagar,' is receiving a lot of love from the audience, he used social media to express his gratitude. Siddharth took to his official Instagram handle on Monday and
uploaded a string of photographs with the cast of the show. He also dropped a photo with Alka Ahuja, the wife of Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja (Played by Siddharth in the show). Siddharth's post also included
a sincere thank you note for the audience that went, "Operation Safed Sagar - Truly grateful. This honour will stay with me forever. Thank you to each and every person who gave me the strength and understanding to be able to live up to this unbelievable privilege... The makers of OSS and my incredible co-actors and technicians. You have all my love (sic)." He also thanked Alka Ahuja, saying, "Thank you ALKA Ma'am for letting me be a part of your family. Thank you Kamal ma'am and Tony Sir for your blessings and belief. I am completely overwhelmed. Sqdn Leader Ajay Ahuja Amar Rahe. Jai Hind." Along with Siddharth, 'Operation Safed Sagar' also features Jimmy Shergill, Abhay Verma, Dia Mirza, Prajakta Koli, Adil Hussain, Mihir Ahuja, Taaruk Raina, Arnav Bhasin, and Amrita Bagchi in key roles, along with others. Made under the direction of Oni Sen, the series has been jointly created by Abhijeet Singh Parmar and Kushal Srivastava. Backed by Sanjay Routray and Sarita Patil of Matchbox Shots LLP in collaboration with Mehboob Pal Singh Brar of Feel Good Films, 'Operation Safed Sagar' premiered on Netflix on August 7.
ENTERTAINMENT
Vijay Varma goes solo in Europe, shares ‘Ramu angles’ from his adventurous getaway
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ctor Vijay Varma is currently enjoying some time away from his busy schedule as he explores Europe solo. The actor gave a glimpse into his adventurous getaway by sharing a series of pictures and videos from his trip, including moments from Mt Jungfrau and Zurich. Sharing glimpses of his journey on Instagram, Vijay captioned the post, “Soloing Europe vol 2 At mt jungfrau Paint me like one of your.. Portrait in paradise Will be dipping my feet in this later But first.. head to Highest place in Europe Mt Jungfrau Glacier tunnels Who remembers this one from ice age series? My fav character Happy manFirst ever paragliding! Got some Ramu angles too Zugrich baby Street art across Europe is.” From breathtaking mountain views to exploring glacier tunnels, the actor appeared to be making the most of his time in the picturesque European destination. A few days ago, the ‘Darlings’ actor posted a couple of his photos and captioned them as, “Soloing Europe vol 1 Lucerne graffiti in eve Pretty view Town squared well Crossiant X juice Look I’m a postcard Selfie bhi banti hai Happy feet at titlis Good view for lunch Coming down Mt titlis Engelberg More Posing Old
friends Old bridge in Lucerne Sunset to die for.” Vijay Varma appears to be making the most of his break as he explores scenic European destinations and enjoys some downtime away from the hectic schedule of film promotions and shoots. On the work front, the actor has several interesting projects lined up, including “Family Business,” “Lust Stories 3” and the upcoming season of “Matka King.” Meanwhile, his latest travel glimpses offer a peek into his adventurous side as he enjoys some time away from the screen. On the work front, the actor has several interesting projects lined up, including “Family Business,” “Lust Stories 3” and the upcoming season of “Matka King.”
Arslan Goni talks about Salman Nayanthara on how Geethu Mohandas floored her with her narration of ‘Toxic’: This film is going to blow your minds! Khan’s impact on ‘Alliance’
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ctor Arslan Goni, who recently wrapped up the streaming reality show ‘Alliance’, has spoken about the impact of Bollywood superstar Salman Khan’s entry into the show. Arslan spoke with IANS after the culmination of the show’s 1st season, and said that popularity for the show followed Salman Khan given his massive fanfollowing. He told IANS, “It was a great moment. Wherever he goes, the experience gets uplifted. His entry proved to be great for the show, it got a lot of popularity. The way he came to the show, and sat all of us down for talks, it made our day. It was a great experience”. He also opened up on the impact of the words of his girlfriend, Sussanne Khan, as he shared,
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“She said, ‘I miss you’. It felt really good. It impacted me a lot because I was missing her too, and then we hugged. So, it felt really good. When she said that, I wasn’t expecting that she would miss me so much”. Arslan and Sussanne Khan met through mutual friends, and have been going strong for over 5 years. They initially kept their equation private, and became more open about their relationship eventually, sharing affectionate posts and appearing together at social gatherings. Sussanne confirmed their relationship publicly in 2022, while Arslan has often spoken warmly about her and their connection. Their relationship has also drawn attention because Sussanne was previously married to Bollywood superstar Hrithik Roshan. Interestingly, Arslan and Hrithik maintain a cordial relationship, and the two couples have been seen together socially. Meanwhile, the 1st season of ‘Alliance’ concluded with Mini Mathur being crowned the winner, taking home the trophy and INR 50 lakh. Aly Goni finished as the first runner-up, while Ruhee Dosani was the second runner-up, completing the final three.
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ctress Nayanthara, who plays a pivotal role in director Geethu Mohandas's eagerly awaited action thriller 'Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown Ups', recently disclosed how she wasn't initially sure if she should be a part of the film but how she was blown away by Geethu Mohandas's narration and accepted to be a part of it. .Participating in the trailer launch event of the film which was held recently, Nayanthara, while talking about her bond with director Geethu Mohandas, said, "Geetu and me, we've had a very, very long journey and a beautiful one. We have worked together in a film. Must be 20 years back. That was a different Geetu." Nayanthara then went on to say that when Geethu Mohandas called her for the film, she wasn't so sure because the film had a lot of actors. "I'm usually a little careful or maybe a little apprehensive about choosing a film where there are a lot of actors. So, when she called me for this film, I wasn't sure," Nayanthara disclosed. "I said, 'No, I don't think I want to do the film'. So, she asked me some 10 million questions and I said, 'okay, it's fine. You can just come and narrate it to me'," Nayanthara recalled with a smile. "And from the time, from the moment she narrated it to me, I was like, 'Who is this woman?
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Who is this director that we have not seen?'. You are going to witness something incredible. You guys (referring to the audiences) are just not ready for it. I'm telling you. You've seen the trailer. I know it's amazing. But you still haven't seen the film. It's going to blow your minds. It's really going to be incredible." For the unaware, 'Toxic' features Yash, Nayanthara, Kiara Advani, Tara Sutaria, Rukmini Vasanth, and Huma Qureshi in a
powerhouse ensemble cast. Written by Yash and Geetu Mohandas, and directed by Geetu Mohandas, the film has been shot in Kannada and English and has been dubbed in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and other languages. Produced by KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations, 'Toxic' is scheduled to hit theatres on August 26 this year.
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Shreya Kalra lifts the trophy for ‘Lock Upp 2’, Shivangi Joshi becomes the 1st runner up
Chiranjeevi Backs Women-Led Telugu Films
ENTERTAINMENT
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ongratulating actress Samantha and the unit of her successful film 'Maa Inti Bangaram', Megastar Chiranjeevi on Tuesday observed that films like 'Maa Inti Bangaram', with diversity and women in the lead, were needed for the Telugu film industry. Taking to his X timeline to pen a congratulatory post to Samantha, who not only played the lead but also produced the film, Chiranjeevi in Telugu said 'Maa Inti Bangaram' felt very interesting.
Suriya’s & Sons’ director Venky Atluri He pointed that ‘Vishwanath the film had pens note of gratitude as film gears up to hit screens
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fter going through 6 weeks of an emotional rollercoaster, social media influencer Shreya Kalra finally lifted the trophy of 'Lock Upp 2: Sach Ya Sazaa'. Shreya's journey on the show has been a blast, garnering praises from both the viewers and cocontestants. Television actress Shivangi Joshi emerged as the first runnerup of the reality show, while Yogesh Rawat became the second runner-up. Ram Kapoor and Shilpa Shinde, two strong contenders of the show, got evicted extremely close to the finish line. All the top 5 contenders – Shreya, Shivangi, Yogesh, Ram, and Shilpa were asked to make a puzzle.
The contestant with the most incorrect pieces would be evicted. Ram Kapoor lost the task, leaving Shilpa, Shreya, Shivangi, and Yogesh to fight for the trophy. Next, Yogesh was asked to convince Shilpa, Shreya, and Shivangi to pick the box that said 'terminated'. Shilpa made the wrong choice and lost the challenge. The top 3 finalists - Shreya, Shivangi, and Yogesh were asked some difficult questions from the media as well as the jury comprising of actors. Awez Darbar accused Shreya of influencing her ex-flame to make certain claims about him while he was a contestant on 'Bigg Boss 19', affecting his image on social media.
Rakshan’s next film titled ‘Mary Gold’; veteran actors Prabhu, Sukanya to reunite on screen after 31 years!
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he makers of director Priyan Rajendran's upcoming action entertainer, featuring actor Rakshan in the lead, have now announced the title of the film as 'Mary Gold'. The film, which is being produced by well known production house Trident Arts, is being produced by R. Ravindran and co-produced by Sudharsan. The film is Trident Arts's 21st production.
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Sources close to the unit of the film say that actress Namritha plays the female lead in this film, which will be set against the backdrop of Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi. One other highlight about this upcoming project is that it will mark the reunion of the popular on-screen pair, Prabhu and Sukanya, after 31 years. The duo had previously starred together in films such as 'Senthamizh Paattu', 'Chinna Mappillai' and 'Mr. Madras'. Sources hint at 'Mary Gold' being an engaging and fast-paced story. Set in southern Tamil Nadu, the film, sources have revealed, will revolve around the intriguing rivalry between characters from Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi, while exploring their distinctive lifestyles. At its heart, 'Mary Gold' will be an emotional family drama with an engaging narrative, they add and point out that the unit plans to shoot the film swiftly.
ven as his film 'Vishwanath and Sons' geared up to hit screens the world over, ace director Venky Atluri has now penned a note of gratitude to his entire unit, thanking them for what they had brought to the film. Taking to his Instagram page to share a statement, Venky Atluri wrote, "Gratitude. Indebted. For all the love and support we’ve received… truly grateful. This is for all of Suriya sir’s Anbaana fans and every movie lover out there. We’ve poured our hearts into #VishwanathAndSons and I sincerely hope you love what we’ve created." He went on to add, "As I’ve been saying, the film has more than 90% entertainment… filled with laughter, emotions, warmth and moments you can enjoy with your families and loved ones. Can’t wait for you all to experience it." In his statement, the director, who has directed the film featuring Suriya and Mamitha Baiju in the lead, wrote, "As #VishwanathAndSons reaches the audience in a few more hours, my heart is filled with gratitude. This has been an incredibly special journey, and I feel blessed to have had such wonderful people stand
by me and this story." Thanking Suriya and Mamitha Baiju, the lead actors of the film, the director wrote, "Suriya sir... Thank you for trusting me with Sanjay Vishwanath and bringing him to life with so much warmth, charm and soul. Working with you is an experience I'll cherish
forever. Mamitha... You brought such freshness, energy and emotion to the film and made your character truly special." He also went on to thank other artistes in the film like Radhikaa Sarathkumar, Raveena Tandon, Nassar, Sudha, Sarvadaman, Raghubabu, Sunil Reddy, Hyper Aadhi and Charvik."
Riteish Deshmukh loses his cool at Yogesh Rawat over TRP claims: Are you counting? Rawat on the reality show after the latter claimed that his eviction had affected the show's TRPs.
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ollywood actor Riteish Deshmukh, who is currently seen as a jailor in Lock Upp: Sach Ya Sazaa, has strongly reprimanded contestant Yogesh
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An angry Riteish even asked Yogesh to leave if he thinks he is bigger than the show. Riteish: “Yogesh, I was listening from outside. You said, ‘No, Yogesh, no Lock Upp?’ What do you think? This show is here because of you? ‘They threw me out. This news got leaked. My fans shredded them to pieces. That’s why I was brought back.” “Understand one thing, we are getting whatever you are saying. In what attitude are you talking and what you trying to convey? The TRP fell because of you? Are you counting the TRP?”
Calling out Yogesh's remarks and attitude, Riteish reminded him that the reality show is bigger than any one contestant and stressed that eliminations are decided through the game's tasks, not by personal choices of the host, mentor or the streaming platform “Did I take you out? Did Farah take you out? Did Netflix take you out? Dheeraj took him out. A task took place for it. Did the task happen or not? Was the task fair or not? When you say they come, Farah comes, Netflix comes, and this show comes.” He also cited co-contestant Ram Kapoor's humility, saying even an established star does not consider himself bigger than the platform.
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