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Netanyahu issues warning against Iran, Hezbollah said that the country would not hesitate to land severe blows which they would have never dreamt of. Addressing media persons on Saturday night, Netanyahu said that the war against Hamas in Gaza would continue for months. Tel Aviv , Dec 31 (IANS) Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a stern warning to Iran and Hezbollah against attack on Jerusalem and
He added that the operational plans for fighting against Hezbollah has been approved and said that if Hezbollah expands its fight against Israel, there would be heavy retaliation.
He said: "On the northern border - we are landing heavy blows against Hezbollah, eliminating many terrorists and destroying the enemy's capabilities." The Israeli Prime Minister said that said that diplomacy was the best option to restore security to that border but added that Israel would not hesitate to act against Hezbollah should those options fail. Continued on Page 3
PM inaugurates revamped Ayodhya Dham railway station, flags off new trains and Governor Anandiben Patel at the airport.
Ayodhya (UP), Dec 30 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the Ayodhya Dham railway station. The Prime Minister arrived in the temple town and was received by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath
The Prime Minister held a roadshow while enroute to the railway station. Thousands of people had lined up along the route, showering rose petals on the convoy and cheering the Prime Minister. Devotional songs dedicated to Lord Ram were being played out on the streets in the town as school children put up dance
Official sources revealed that it was a low-intensity blast involving a crude bomb.
New Delhi, Dec 27 (IANS) In a latest development following the blast outside the Israel Embassy in Delhi on Tuesday, forensic experts have found more than two-dozen pellets from the site,
"Our teams conducted a thorough search of the area on the second day, and discovered multiple pieces of 'chharre' (pellets) scattered around the area," said a senior FSL official. Elaborating further, the official isaid that initial observations
town early on Sunday, officials said.
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Maharashtra), Dec 31 (IANS) In a year-end tragedy, six workers were suffocated to death in their sleep when a major fire engulfed a factory in the MIDC area of the
Continued on Page 3
Meanwhile, Delhi Police said in a statement that on Wednesday morning, teams from central agencies visited the spot and collected some samples of soil, leaves and objects lying around Continued on Page 3
Continued on Page 3
The prosecutor, Michael Morrissey, identified them on Friday as Rakesh Kamal, 57, his wife, Teena, 54, and their 18-yearold daughter, Ariana, and said the incident happened on Thursday evening. New York, Dec 30 (IANS) An Indian-origin couple, who headed a tech company, and their teen daughter have been found dead
He told reporters that at the house "there was no sign of any kind of a break-in," and, therefore, he added, "I am led to
Continued on Page 3
Australian Sikh driver returns AUD8,000 found in cab, says doesn’t want reward post by @bramalea.rd that he took the money to the police as soon as he found it.
suggest a low-intensity blast, likely caused by the use of a crude bomb. "We are meticulously analysing every exhibit collected from the site," the official added.
Following a call, the police and fire brigade teams rushed there
in Massachusetts State and the local prosecutor said it was likely a "domestic issue incident".
The Prime Minister flagged off six trains from the railway stations which included two Amrit Bharat trains and six Vande Bharat trains. Later, the Prime Minister will also inaugurate the newly-built airport and will lay the foundation stones for a slew of development projects in Uttar Pradesh.
The incident was reported around 2.30 p.m. from a factory of the Sunshine Enterprises, engaged in manufacturing hand-gloves at the Waluj MIDC complex, said a police official.
Indian-origin tech company heads, teen daughter found dead in US; prosecutor suspects ‘domestic incident’
performances.
Israel Embassy security scare: Forensic team finds over two-dozen pellets indicating low intensity blast shedding light on the nature of the explosion.
Six workers suffocate to death in sleep as Maha factory burns
New Delhi, Dec 27 (IANS) In a heartwarming incident, a Sikh taxi driver in Australia returned around AUD 8,000 (Rs 4.53 lakh) to a passenger who left the cash in the back seat of his cab. Charanjit Singh Atwal, who has been working as a taxi driver in Melbourne for over three decades, said in an Instagram
The Good Samaritan said that the thought of keeping the cash never crossed his mind, and that he keeps finding things left behind by passengers in his car. When he was asked if he got a reward from the owner, he replied, "No, I don't need a reward". As the story went viral on social media, netizens applauded Atwal, saying "Singh is king." Continued on Page 3
INDIA NEWS
Jan 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 11
EDITORIAL BOARD Amrita Deshpande, Community News Editor Paras Sharma, Assistant Editor Dr Uttam Kumar Sinha, Senior Fellow, Nehru Memorial Museum & Library, India Mr Shaun Star, Director, Centre for Australia India Studies, Jindal Global University, India
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Ms Kriti Bharadwaj
Leader of Australia’s Northern Territory resigns over shares scandal
Israel Embassy security scare: Two suspects zeroed down, Delhi’s Chabad House fortified
EDITORIAL TEAM Dr Ram Mohan, Chairman Dr Ashutosh Misra, Editor-in-Chief Ms Priyadarshini Rana, Bureau Chief, Victoria
INDIA NEWS TV Mr Karthik Pratap Singh, News Director Mr. Agastya Yeturi, Cinematographer Mr Nishit Chandan, Special Correspondent
CONTENTS
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News from India
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Best parks to visit this summer in Brisbane
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Community News
David Crisafulli MP visits local businesses as storms lash the region
Page 19
Routine is important
WEBSITE DESIGN & MANAGEMENT Cosmos Media www.cosmosmedia.info
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Special Features
Page 25
Sports Ajay Devgn reflects on ‘Phool aur Kante’, ‘Lamhe’ opening on same day
5 charming destinations for a funtastic festive getaway
DESIGNER
Community News ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 smashes Broadcast and Digital records
WRITERS Mr Rabindra Mukherji PHOTOGRAPHER Vinoraa Photography facebook.com/vinoraaphotography
News from Australia
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Jan 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 11
PM inaugurates revamped Ayodhya Dham railway station, flags off new trains Continued from Page 1
Meanwhile, the holy city has been decked up with flowers, murals and thematic ornamental columns amid heavy security
deployment. Huge posters with images of Modi have been put up at prominent locations here, while cut-outs of Lord Ram have been installed outside the
redeveloped railway station. This visit by the Prime Minister comes just ahead of the 'pran pratishtha' or consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir on January 22.
We will act in any way until we restore security to the residents of the north."
the axis of evil and aggression against Israel on various fronts. Israel would not shy away in acting again for the security and safety of the people of his country.
COVER STORIES
Australian Sikh driver returns AUD8,000 found in cab, says doesn’t want reward Continued from Page 1
“He is blessed, and his honesty and good deed will be returned to him tenfold,” an Instagram user said. "It’s always the good deeds, social services and sharing food etc that comes to mind when I hear about Punjabis, I hope and wish it remains like that," another user
commented. Earlier this year, an Indian trolley pusher from Brisbane was hailed for his honesty as he returned a lost handbag containing a wallet, mobile phone and cash. Beant Singh was offered a cash reward for his act, but he said, "I can't take any money for just doing the right thing".
Netanyahu issues warning Indian-origin tech company heads, teen against Iran, Hezbollah daughter found dead in US; prosecutor Continued from Page 1
He said: "If Hezbollah expands the war - it will receive blows it never dreamt of, and so will Iran.
Netanyahu said: "Iran was leading
Six workers suffocate to death in sleep as Maha factory burns Continued from Page 1
to find the factory turned into an inferno from all sides. The locals informed that there were at least half a dozen people trapped inside and some others managed to escape from the conflagration, the exact cause of which is not clear. Later, when the fire-fighters could enter the factory premises, they came across the bodies of six workers which have now been
sent for identification and other formalities. Other workers said that the factory was closed at night and the more than a dozen labourers were sleeping inside the premises when the blaze broke out catching them virtually off-guard. While several managed to run away and escape the burning building, six workers were trapped inside and succumbed to the fumes and flames, said the
official. Minister Sandipanrao Bhumre, who rushed to the scene this morning, said that the incident will be thoroughly probed from all angles and nobody would be spared. Meanwhile, the fire-fighters have brought the fire under control after nearly six hours and cooling operations are underway, the official said.
Israel Embassy security scare: Forensic team finds over two-dozen pellets indicating low intensity blast Continued from Page 1
the area for further examination. The central agencies, including the National Investigation Agency (NIA), were present at the site, adding to the significant police presence. Sources told IANS that a letter retrieved from the spot on Tuesday was found to be abusive in nature. The typed words on the letter, such as 'Sir Allah Resistance', strongly suggest that the organisation may be claiming responsibility for the attack. Sources revealed that after scrutinising multiple CCTV footage, the police have narrowed down their focus on two individuals suspected of approaching the area just before the explosion on Tuesday. “While scanning CCTV footage,
two suspects have been zeroed down upon, who were seen roaming in the area on Tuesday evening,” said sources, adding that the police are scanning the CCTV footage of the locality to identify the duo. Security agencies in Delhi were sent into a tizzy after receiving an emergency call reporting an 'explosion' from near the Israel Embassy in Chanakyapuri on Tuesday. “A call reporting an explosion near the Israel Embassy in Delhi at around 5:45 p.m. prompted the immediate dispatch of a fire tender," the Delhi Fire Service (DFS) had said on Tuesday. Earlier, the Delhi Police said in a statement that at 5:53 p.m. on Tuesday, a PCR call conveyed that a "loud sound was heard from the rear side of the Israel Embassy".
"Given the sensitivity of the site and the report of a sound resembling an explosion, a dog squad, crime team, and the bomb disposal squad of Delhi Police were sent to the spot from where the alleged explosion sound was reported,” a Delhi Police spokesperson had said on Tuesday. An eye-witness claimed to have heard a blast sound and noticed smoke outside the Israel Embassy. “At around 5 p.m., while I was on duty, I heard a loud noise resembling a tyre burst. On stepping outside, I saw smoke emanating from the top of a tree near the premises. The police have recorded my statement,” the eyewitness, who works as a guard at a premises near the Embassy, had said.
6 members of Indian-origin family killed in road crash in Texas Georgia. New York, Dec 29 (IANS) Six members of an Indian-origin family have been killed in Texas when their minivan was struck head-on by a pickup truck driven by a teenager that veered to the wrong side of the highway. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) said that in the crash on Wednesday, one person in
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the minivan survived as did the teenager and a companion in the other vehicle that crossed over in a no-overtaking zone, media reported. The driver of the minivan was identified by the DPS as Rushil Barri, 28, from Irving, Texas, while the others travelling with him were visiting from Alpharetta,
According to the DPS, the others killed were Naveena Potabathula, 36, Nageswararao Ponnada, 64, Sitamahalakshmi Ponnada, 60, Krithik Potabathula, 10, Nishidha Potabathula, 9. Barri's causing, Lokesh Potabathula, 43, who survived the crash was hospitalised in critical condition, the DPS said.
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suspects ‘domestic incident’ Continued from Page 1
believe that it is safe to tell you it's probably a domestic issue incident." He said that a gun was found next to Rakesh Kamal, but would not say how they died. But Morrissey added that previously "there's been no police reports, there's been no problems, no domestic issues, no nothing at that house or in the entire neighbourhood that I'm aware of". Teena Kamal, who had graduated from Delhi University and studied at Harvard University, was the CEO of EduNova, according to the American Red Cross, which said that she was on the board of directors of its Massachusetts chapter. The Better Business Bureau, which showed her as the CEO, listed "Rick" Kamal as President of the company. WBZ TV in Boston said that according to investigators a
relative went to the house to check on the family, saw someone dead and called police. There were indications of the family facing financial problems with Boston 25 News TV reporting that Teena Kamal had filed for bankruptcy in a federal court last year. It said that she later sold the house for $3 million even though it was valued at $6.8 million. The palatial house in Dover, about 30 km from Boston has 27 rooms, according to WCVB TV. On TV newscasts, the house appeared to be decorated with lights and Christmas ornaments. Earlier, Morrissey's spokesperson David Traub issued a statement that "the evidence available at this time does not indicate the involvement of any outside party, but suggests that this is a deadly incident of domestic violence". Morrissey said that Ariana Kamal was a student at Middlebury College in neighbouring Vermont State.
Putin wants Trump back as President: Retd US Army General New York, Dec 31 (IANS) Retired US Army General Barry McCaffrey has said that Russian President Vladimir Putin is "actively hoping" that former President Donald Trump wins the 2024 Presidential election as Putin felt "Trump's persecution was politically motivated reflecting the rottenness of the American political system". Trump, the frontrunner in the 2024 GOP presidential primary, has long been praised by Putin (even suspected of trying to interfere in the 2016 campaign to influence voters) and the former President has often quoted the Russian leader on the campaign trail. The Russian President himself faces the electorate in his country facing a crisis of confidence fighting "ill health" besides the army's resistance to prolong the war with Ukraine. Putin is rumoured in the Kremlin to be suffering from cancer and that he is operating incognito from a far-off mansion in the outskirts of Moscow and some say he is in Georgia. At a rally in Durham, New
Hampshire, earlier this month, former President Trump quoted Putin, who reportedly criticised the numerous criminal charges that Trump is currently facing, denied by the former President and pleaded not guilty to. "Even Vladimir Putin... says that Biden's, and this is a quote, politically motivated persecution of his political rival is very good for Russia because it shows the rottenness of the American political system, which cannot pretend to teach others about democracy," Trump quotes Putin. Putin made the comment during an Economic Forum in eastern Russia as late as September this year. Putin did not name Biden in the original quote which was added by Trump, Newsweek reported in its latest issue, putting Trump on the cover with the caption "Trump, the year that was". Meanwhile, the relationship between Trump and Putin has been criticised since the former President's 2016 run when questions of Russia's alleged election interference and possible coordination with the Trump campaign arose, media reports said.
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INDIA NEWS
Jan 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 11
ADVERTORIAL
Bravus Mining and Resources: Highlights of 2023
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excavator in the world. We opened our new offices in Townsville and Rockhampton, exported 10 million tonnes from our operation, introduced worldleading research using AI to help
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Resources that make all of this possible, and we wanted to extend a huge thank you to our supporters, incredible crews and contracting partners.
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Jan 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 11
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Leveraging 2032: Ipswich’s roadmap to the Olympics
Members of the Ipswich 2032 Legacy Working Group Russell Luhrs, Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding, James Sturges and Peter G Tully (front) at the Leveraging 2032 launch on 8 December 2023 at the Brighton Homes Arena
Improved transport links, boosting grassroots sports and investment attraction are on the Ipswich community’s wish list as real legacies from the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said today.
Working Group, said Ipswich was now well positioned to secure 2032 legacies to enhance the quality of life for our community.
Releasing Ipswich City Council’s Leveraging 2032: Our Roadmap to the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Mayor Harding said the roadmap aimed to bring top class sport and entertainment venues and facilities, mass public transport, hotels and tourists to the city.
“Sport is a powerful driver. It brings us together, improves health and well-being, and builds positive and productive communities. However, the 2032 Games is far more than just a sporting event.
The roadmap was launched at Brighton Homes Arena, Ipswich’s 2032 Games venue scheduled to host modern pentathlon. Mayor Harding, Chair of the 12-member Ipswich 2032 Legacy
“The roadmap highlights opportunities that we know will deliver outcomes for this community,” Mayor Harding said.
to achieve this and many other legacy opportunities in lead up to, during, and beyond the 2032 Games. The next decade will represent a golden era for the south-east, and Ipswich is well placed to take full advantage of the opportunities before us.” Twenty legacy outcomes have been articulated through engagement with the community, Legacy Working Group and Advocacy Steering Group with a broader alignment to council’s strategic priorities. They are:
9. Healthy and Engaged City
said.
10. Ipswich Showgrounds and the Ipswich Convention and Exhibition Centre
“This roadmap outlines our priorities to maximise the Games’ opportunity for greater investment in the City of Ipswich.
11. An Environmental Legacy for Ipswich 12. A Sustainable Legacy for Ipswich 13. Boosting Business and Regional Growth Opportunities 14. New Hotels and Accommodation 15. A Local Volunteer Passport 16. Position Ipswich as the Place to Be Before, During and After the Games
“Our community has highlighted transport connectivity as the most important legacy outcome for our city, ensuring we are connected to each other and our neighbouring councils in a safe, efficient and reliable way.
1. Ipswich to Springfield Central Public Transport Corridor – Mass Transit
18. Support and Showcase Multicultural Communities
“Our roadmap sets a foundation
3. Ipswich – Games Workforce and Supply Chain Connectivity 4. North Ipswich Sport and Entertainment Precinct
19. Destination Led Events 20. The Cultural Olympiad
5. Regional Parkland and IndoorOutdoor Sporting Complex
Ipswich City Council Economic Development Committee Chairperson Cr Kate Kunzelmann, said the Games was expected to deliver $8 billion in economic benefits for Queensland.
2. Ipswich Public Transport Connectivity – Local Connections
6. Springfield Central Sport and Entertainment Precinct
Springfield City Group is the master developer of Greater Springfield and has been instrumental to the master planned community’s outstanding success. Our vision for Greater Springfield is driven by innovation. We are also conscious of making a lasting and positive contribution to both Greater Springfield and the broader Southeast Queensland community. Philanthropy and promoting social and environmental sustainability are integral to the way we do business. At Greater Springfield, this commitment is delivered through partnerships with highly respected corporations, the Federal Government, State Government and Ipswich City Council. Springfield City Group has, for 30 years, partnered with the best. We will continue to seek out partnerships to progress this new city in areas of education, health care services, and other employment generating industries. We are open to imagining what is possible. We seek to identify and open up new opportunities. We look to solve challenges innovatively, scientifically, and ethically. We actively seek to learn from the best and to set new benchmarks in all we do. Our story In 1992, Maha Sinnathamby AM and Bob Sharpless acquired almost 3000 hectares of land on the doorstep of Brisbane with a clear vision: to create a master-planned city from scratch. It would be the first city in Australia since the national capital was constructed. The dream was so big it needed an Act of Parliament. In 1997, Queensland’s Parliament voted unanimously for legislation to make Springfield into the state’s newest city. Seven prime ministers and six premiers have played a role in the city’s growth.
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Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding and Holyee-Ann Jackson at the Leveraging 2032 launch on 8 December 2023 at the Brighton Homes Arena.
7. Pre-Games Training Opportunities (Venues and Team Attraction) 8. University of Southern Queensland Sporting Precinct and Tartan Track
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17. Enhance and Leverage our Unique Selling Points and Tourism Assets
“That is even before you start to consider the social and cultural opportunities,” Cr Kunzelmann
“The success of the Games acquisition is the perfect example of what can be achieved when all three levels of government work together. The Federal Government’s commitment of $7 billion to the delivery of the Games is the catalyst to elevate lifestyles and ambitions through improving the health and wellbeing of our communities. “The redevelopment of existing sporting venues and creation of new sporting venues will be both accelerated and amplified due to the success of securing the Games. “The Games will be the largest event that has ever been held in Queensland. It is the only event that brings the entire world together in peaceful competition, bringing hope for a better future. “Our young athletes of today, may be our Olympic and Paralympic heroes in 2032, competing on the global stage, from a place called Ipswich.”
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Jan 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 11
NEWS FROM INDIA
Israel Embassy security scare: Two suspects zeroed down, Delhi’s Chabad House fortified
Rahul’s Manipur to Mumbai ‘Bharat Nyay Yatra’ from Jan 14
reported,” said a Delhi Police spokesperson.
unanimous resolution of the Congress Working Committee, the party's highest decision making body, on December 21 that Rahul Gandhi should do the second phase of the Yatra from East to West, it was decided that he (Gandhi) should do the second phase of the yatra from Imphal to Mumbai.
an emergency call reporting an 'explosion' near the Israel Embassy in Chanakyapuri on Tuesday.
New Delhi, Dec 27 (IANS) Delhi Police probe in connection with the alleged explosion near the Israel Embassy on December 26 evening has led to two suspects, who were seen roaming around the scene before the incident, an official said on Wednesday. “While scanning CCTV cameras, two suspects have been zeroed down, who were seen roaming near the incident scene on Tuesday evening,” said the sources, adding that they are scanning the cameras in the area to identify the duo and trace them. Meanwhile, the police have reinforced security measures around the Chabad House in Paharganj where a large number of Israelis reside. Security agencies in Delhi were sent into a tizzy after receiving
After an extensive search operation, sources confirmed to have found potential evidentiary exhibits, including a typed letter addressed to the Israeli Ambassador to India. When questioned about the contents of the letter, officials refrained from providing details. “A call reporting an explosion near the Israel Embassy in Delhi at around 5:45 p.m. prompted the immediate dispatch of a fire tender," according to the Delhi Fire Service (DFS). Delhi Police said in a statement that at 5:53 p.m. on Tuesday, a PCR call conveyed that a "loud sound was heard from the rear side of the Israel Embassy". "Given the sensitivity of the site and the report of a sound resembling an explosion, a dog squad, crime team, and the bomb disposal squad of Delhi Police were sent to the spot from where the alleged explosion sound was
“Subsequently, experts from the forensic science laboratory (FSL) also reached the scene and the area was cordoned off for a meticulous search. The experts conducted an examination of the spot, collecting potential evidentiary exhibits, which are now being sent for forensic analysis,” said the spokesperson. Simultaneously, the Israel Embassy confirmed the incident, asserting that an 'explosion' occurred in close proximity of the Embassy building. It also confirmed the safety of all the workers and diplomats present in the Embassy. Deputy Chief of Mission of Israel to India, Ohad Nakash Kaynar, said in a video statement, "This evening, several minutes after 5 p.m., an explosion occurred in close proximity to the Embassy. All our workers and diplomats are safe. Our security teams are working in full cooperation with the local security forces, and they will investigate the matter."
Govt throws open e-Jagriti portal, video access to NCDRC to give consumers more clout
New Delhi, Dec 25 (IANS) The government has thrown open the e-Jagriti portal and video conferencing (VC) facility for the National Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission and state consumer commissions as part of the focus on leveraging technology for consumer protection and grievance redressal. Launching the facilities as part
of the National Consumer Day celebrations, Consumer Affairs Minister Piyush Goyal said, the e-Jagriti portal, VC facility for NCDRC, drone testing in NTH, National Consumer Helpline 2.0 in 17 languages, exemplify the Indian government’s efforts to build consumer trust.
to 1,32,209 till November this year
The Minister urged the Department of Consumer Affairs to focus on making Jagriti a “jan andolan” by spreading awareness, providing choices, efficient grievance redressal to consumers and getting continuous feedback from them.
However, the minister also cautioned that along with this technological expansion comes an increase in associated risks. “The ongoing conversation regarding subjects such as AI and consumer protection, including the mitigation of dark patterns, highlights the imperative for a comprehensive stakeholder discussion,” he said.
He appreciated the fact that number of calls received at national consumer helpline had shot up from from 10,000 in 2013
The minister urged the Department of Consumer Affairs to collaboratively strategise with consumer commissions in leveraging technology to eliminate old pending cases entirely and address new cases more swiftly and in real-time.
Replying to a question about choosing Manipur as the starting point, he said, the state was an important part of the country and also the party wanted to begin the process of healing the wounds of the people of Manipur.
New Delhi, Dec 27 (IANS) Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will embark on the 6,200 km 'Bharat Nyay Yatra' from Manipur on January 14. It will cover 85 districts in 14 states and conclude in Mumbai on March 20. Addressing a press conference here at the party headquarters, Congress General Secretary (organisation) K.C. Venugopal and general secretary in charge of communications Jairam Ramesh said, the yatra will be flagged off by party President Mallikarjun Kharge from Imphal on January 14. The Nayay Yatra will be for securing economic, social and political justice for the people of the country. Venugopal said, following the
Venugopal said, while in the first phase, Rahul Gandhi covered about 4,000 kms from Kanyakumari to Kashmir covering 12 states, this time he will cover 6,200 kms covering 14 states. "This time the mode of the ‘yatra’ will be a bus with off and on walking stretches," he explained. He said that the Nyay Yatra will cover states of Manipur, Nagaland, Assam, Meghalaya, West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Maharashtra. Ramesh said during the Bharat Jodo Yatra, Rahul Gandhi raised the issues of economic disparities, polarization and dictatorship, the Nyay Yatra will focus on social, economic and political justice for the people of the country.
74 criminals walk into UP police station & surrender
against their accomplices and kin.
sheeters’, walked into the Ataria police station in Uttar Pradesh's Hardoi district holding placards of their pledge to abstain from criminal activities and surrendered. The incident took place on Tuesday. The placards read, “Main ab apradh nahi karunga, jail jaane ko taiyar hoon (I pledge I won’t commit a crime now, and I’m ready to go to jail.)” Hardoi, Dec 27 (IANS) In an unprecedented incident, about 74 criminals, listed as ‘history-
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The police had issued notices to the kin of history-sheeter criminals for stern action, which included bulldozing of their properties and police action
These criminals were named in cases of extortion, theft, burglary not only in the district but also in the adjoining districts like Sitapur, Lucknow, Unnao and Rae Bareli. Hardoi Superintendent of Police K.C. Goswami said that 10 other history-sheeters of the police station were found to be in jail while 38 others were now in their old age, found to have left the world of crime and joined the mainstream. Goswami said that police stations of the district have been directed to prepare a list of top ten accused in cases of crimes and then initiate action against them which also includes slapping of the Gangsters Act against them.
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Jan 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 11
INDIA NEWS
NEWS FROM INDIA
India declares Canada-based Students forced to clean school toilets in K’taka for Education Madhu Bangarappa The parents and activists have gangster Landa terrorist hails from the district. demanded action against the The students studying at Guddada Neralakere village in the limits of Komaranahalli gram panchayat were allegedly engaged in cleaning of toilets.
Intelligence Headquarter at Mohali last year.
New Delhi, Dec 30 (IANS) India has designated one of the most wanted fugitive and Canadabased gangster Lakhbir Singh Landa as a terrorist. Landa (34), a native of Harike, district Tarn Taran, Punjab and presently residing in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada belongs to Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) which is listed as a terrorist organisation at serial number 1 of the First Schedule to the said Act, read the MHA notification. Landa, backed by the cross border agency, was involved in the terror attack through shoulder mounted Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) on the building of Punjab State
“Landa has been involved in supply of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), arms, sophisticated weapons, explosives from across the border to various modules for carrying out terrorist activities in the State of Punjab, India, And whereas, the said Landa has also been involved in various criminal cases related to raising of terror modules, extortion, killings, planting IEDs, smuggling of weapons and narcotics and using funds or proceeds thereof for terrorist acts in the State of Punjab and other parts of the Country,” a notification of Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) reads. The MHA notification also said that Landa and his associates have been conspiring to disrupt the peace, law and order in the State of Punjab by carrying out targeted killings, extortions and other anti-national activities in different parts of India. An open ended warrant has been issued against Landa and he is also a subject of Look Out Circular dated June 9, 2021.
Shivamogga (Karnataka), Dec 28 (IANS) Despite the repeated warning of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of strict action, another incident of students engaged in school toilet cleaning has come to light in Shivamogga district of Karnataka. The incident has proved to be a major embarrassment for the Congress government as Minister
The video of students cleaning the school toilets went viral on social media on Thursday. The Dalit Sangharsha Samithi (DSS) submitted a complaint in this regard with the Assistant Commissioner, Satyanarayana. It is alleged that the head master Shankarappa and other teachers had engaged the school children to clean toilets.
accused teachers.
On December 23, the Karnataka Police arrested the headmistress of a government school for allegedly making the children clean toilets in Bengaluru. The arrest was made following the complaint by the Block Education Officer (BEO) Anjinappa in this regard with the Byadarahalli police station. An incident of school children being asked to clean a septic tank in the premises of the school in Kolar district was also reported recently.
Threat to bomb 7 airports including Delhi and Jaipur bomb the airport and planes.
Jaipur, Dec 28 (IANS) Over half-adozen airport directors, including those in Delhi and Jaipur, have received emails threatening to
Sources said that an email came at around 10:23 pm on Wednesday night in which it was claimed that Delhi, Jaipur, Lucknow, Chandigarh, Mumbai, Chennai and Ahmedabad airports would be bombed. There was a stir at Jaipur Airport after receiving the threatening
email on the official customer care ID. On receiving the information, the CISF officials took charge and with the help of the local police, they started investigating, combing and sanitising the airport and the flights landing there.
“The Central Government believes that Lakhbir Singh Landa is involved in terrorism and the said Lakhbir Singh Landa is to be added as a terrorist in the Fourth Schedule to the said Act.
DMDK founder, popular actor ‘Captain’ Vijayakanth passes away at 71 Vijayakanth founded DMDK in 2005, challenging the supremacy of former CMs J. Jayalalithaa and M. Karunanidhi. He was a successful actor, producer, and director, serving as LoP twice, representing the constituencies of Virudhachalam and Rishivandiyam. He is survived by his wife, Premalatha, and two sons.
Chennai, Dec 28 (IANS) Popular Tamil actor and former leader of the opposition in the Tamil Nadu assembly, Vijayakanth, passed away on Thursday at a private hospital in Chennai. The 71-yearold had founded Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK). Officials at Miot Hospital confirmed his death. The actor, known by fans as the "Captain" for his portrayal of military characters, was admitted for the treatment of pneumonia and was on ventilator support. He tested positive for Covid-19. "Captain Vijayakanth was on ventilator support following his admission for pneumonia. Despite the best efforts of the medical staff, he passed away in the morning on Dec 28," the hospital stated.
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Vijayakanth, a successful action hero, earned the title "Puratchi Kalaignar," meaning revolutionary artist. He made his debut with 'Inikkum Ilamai' in 1979, as a villain and went on to become an action icon in the 1980s and 1990s. His superhit movie 'Sattam Oru Iruttarai' was remade in Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada languages. In 1984, he had 18 releases, becoming the only Tamil cinema actor to release maximum films in a year in the lead role. He appeared in 154 movies and was one of the most adored film personalities in the Tamil film industry. Vijayakanth had declared that he would not accept donations for his political party. PM Modi had given a special reference to him in the NDA leaders' meeting and referred to him as his friend. He was also criticised for making objectionable gestures in public, often towards journalists.
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Australia to provide 235 million USD for Rohingya repatriation: Envoy Myanmar, local media reported Monday.
Dhaka, Dec 25 (IANS) Australia will provide around 235 million U.S. dollars to Bangladesh for dignified return of more than 1 million forcibly displaced Rohingyas to their motherland in
The commitment came when outgoing Australian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Jeremy Bruer made a farewell call on Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka, the national news agency Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) reported, Xinhua News Agency said. On the Rohingya issue, the envoy
Leader of Australia’s Northern Territory resigns over shares scandal
Canberra, Dec 19 (IANS) Leader of Australia's Northern Territory (NT), Natasha Fyles on Tuesday resigned after failing to disclose shareholdings in a mining company. Fyles announced her intention to stand down as Chief Minister of the NT on Thursday following a series of integrity scandals, reports Xinhua news agency. Tuesday's announcement came just a day after it was revealed that Fyles owned undisclosed
shares in South32, a mining and metals company that possesses a manganese mine on Groote Eylandt off the NT's north-east coast.
intentional but it's unacceptable. For this reason, I feel the honorable action is to resign as Chief Minister," Fyles told reporters.
Under the Members' Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards act, members of the NT's Legislative Assembly are required to publicly disclose all their financial interests.
"I can assure Territorians that no decision I've ever made has been influenced by that small shareholding but high standards are expected from people holding high office." A former school teacher, Fyles became the Chief Minister of the NT in May 2022. Her resignation comes eight months before the next election in August 2024 where the centerleft Labor Party will be seeking a third consecutive term in power.
Fyles in November said she had declared all her interests after being referred to the NT's anti-corruption watchdog over potential conflicts of interest relating to shares she owned in gas company Woodside. On Tuesday, she said there was no excuse for failing to disclose the holdings in South32. "It was not deliberate, it was not
Fyles also stood down from her role as the NT's Minister for Health but said she would not quit politics.
Australian road deaths hit 5-year high It marks the highest road toll in Australia in a 12-month span since 1,270 people were killed in the 12 months to the end of March 2018.
Canberra, Dec 18 (IANS) Australian road deaths hit a fiveyear high in 2023, the nation's peak automotive body said on Monday. According to data released by the Australian Automobile Association (AAA), there have been 1,253 deaths on Australian roads in 2023 -- an increase of 6 per cent from 2022, reports Xinhua news agency.
Michael Bradley, managing director of the AAA, used the release of the statistics to call for federal, state and territory governments to improve data transparency on road deaths. "Month after month, road deaths keep rising, and we lack the information needed to identify the reasons for this deadly trend and to develop the most effective measures for reducing crashes," he told Guardian Australia, the online Australian edition of the
British daily The Guardian. "The states and territories have crucial data on the quality of Australian roads, the causes of crashes, and law enforcement patterns - but they are not sharing this information." In South Australia (SA), the road toll increased by 61 per cent from 70 deaths in 2022 to 113 deaths so far in 2023, the AAA said -the biggest rise of any state or territory. New South Wales and Victoria, Australia's two largest states, recorded increases of 23.7 and 14.5 per cent, respectively, while every other state and territory recorded reductions in road deaths.
Australian government defends weather agency from criticism amid floods Canberra, Dec 20 (IANS) Australia's Emergency Management Minister Murray Watt has defended the weather service agency from criticism over its warning system in the lead-up to flooding in the country's north. Watt said at a press conference on Tuesday that the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) had done
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the "absolute best" they could to accurately forecast the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Jasper but that it is not a perfect science, Xinhua news agency reported.The storm, which made landfall in northern Queensland on December 13, brought heavy rainfall and strong winds, causing widespread flooding that has devastated much of the region. The BoM has faced
Five-vehicle crash kills 2, injures dozen in Australia confirmed deceased with approximately a dozen other people being treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics for various injuries," the NSW Police Force confirmed in a statement.
reiterated his country's support to Bangladesh for dignified return of forcibly displaced Rohingyas to Myanmar, saying his country would give some 235 million dollars for them. More than 1 million displaced Rohingyas from Myanmar are living in Cox's Bazar, some 300 km southeast of the Bangladeshi capital Dhaka.
criticism for a video update it published on Saturday suggesting rainfall was easing along Queensland's coast and that those regions were no longer subject to a severe weather warning. Residents of the northern city of Cairns reported only receiving a flood warning from the BoM on Sunday after they had been isolated by rising waters.
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NEWS FROM AUSTRALIA
Sydney, Dec 29 (IANS) Two people were killed and a dozen more got injured on Friday after a five-vehicle crash in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW). At about 12.50 p.m. local time, emergency services responded to reports of a serious five-vehicle crash along the Great Western Highway in Wallerawang, a small town about 156 kilometers northwest of Sydney, Xinhua news agency reported.
According to the statement, a crime scene has been established, and a specialist unit is rushing to the accident site. The Great Western Highway is now closed in both directions and is expected to remain a crime scene for a considerable amount of time. Figures from the NSW government showed that as of Thursday, 349 people had lost their lives this year on the state's roads.
"Two persons have been
Over 120,000 homes without power in severe storms in Australia’s Queensland storms at the Gold Coast, Scenic Rim and Logan, the newspaper said.
Sydney, Dec 26 (IANS) One woman was killed, and more than 120,000 homes were left without power in Australia's Queensland as severe thunderstorms pounded the southeastern part of the state on Christmas night, local media reported on Tuesday. The woman in her 50s died in Helensvale, a suburb of the City of Gold Coast, after a tree fell on her while she walked along the road, according to local newspaper The Courier-Mail. About 127,000 homes were left without power in the peak of the
Power could be out for days, if not longer, as crews of the local electricity company Energex raced to repair 875 downed power lines following deadly thunderstorms that pounded South East Queensland on Christmas night, destroying homes and felling trees. New severe thunderstorm warnings were issued Tuesday afternoon, with some Brisbane suburbs copping golf ball-size hail, as South East Queensland continued to suffer from the latest bouts of violent weather, Xinhua news agency reported. The Australian ABC News broadcaster reported on Saturday that violent thunderstorms would likely hit eastern Australia during this year's Christmas period due to an unusual weather pattern.
8 killed, 1 missing in wild thunderstorms on Australia’s southeast coast Sydney, Dec 27 (IANS) At least eight people have lost their lives in Australia, with one still missing, as wild thunderstorms ripped through the country's southeast coast during Christmas and Boxing Day. In Queensland, the death toll rose to six following the conclusion of a large-scale search and rescue operation on Wednesday in the Moreton Bay area, Xinhua news agency reported. "At 5:30 p.m. yesterday afternoon, Boxing Day, a huge storm came over Moreton Bay near Green Island just off Wellington Point. A 39-foot motorized yacht has capsized during the storm," state police's Acting Chief Superintendent Andrew Pilotto said in an update on a "horrific"
and "tragic" boating event. Eleven adult males were on board for an annual fishing trip, he said. Eight of them were transported to hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries. Over the last 18 hours, three people have been recovered deceased from the waters from the incident. He also noted that the wind blew at over 100 km an hour, which "for Moreton Bay is horrific". In a separate press conference, Queensland Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll released information about another incident in Gympie's river area where three women were swept away in floodwaters. She confirmed that one has survived, while one was found deceased and one is still missing.
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Israel will pay heavy price for killing ‘Rot in Hell’: Trump’s message to opponents on Christmas Brig Gen Mousavi: Iran President is another sign of frustration, helplessness, and incapacity of the usurping Zionist regime in the region,” the Iranian President said, in a press statement. Tel Aviv, Dec 26 (IANS) Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has said that Israel will pay a heavy price for killing Brig Gen Razi Mousavi of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in an airstrike in Syria. “Without a doubt, this action
Brig Gen Mousavi was killed in an airstrike in Sayeda Zeinab area near Damascus, the capital of Syria. Mousavi -- a high ranking officer in IRGC -- was coordinating Iran's military operations in Syria. Israel has alleged that Brig Gen Mousavi was responsible for coordinating the supply of arms
and materials to Hezbollah. However, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari -- during a press conference -- did not comment on the killing of Mousavi. Israelis allege that Iran and its IRGC is supporting Hamas and Hezbollah who work in coordination for attacking Israel. Meanwhile, Iran Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said in a social media post, “Tel Aviv faces a tough countdown.”
Regional escalation feared as Israel hints at military ops across Middle East Yemen and Iran". "We have already responded and taken action in six of these theatres,” he told the Knesset, without specifying, The Guardian reported. erusalem, Dec 26 (IANS) Israel is engaged in a “multi-front war”, its Defence Minister Yoav Galant has said, hinting at military operations across the Middle East as the war in Gaza showed new signs of a dangerous regional escalation, a media report said. Speaking in the Parliament on Tuesday, Gallant said Israel was “coming under attack from seven theatres: Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Judea and Samaria [an Israeli term for the West Bank], Iraq,
Iran-allied militias around the Middle East have attacked Israel and US military installations across the region since Hamas launched its devastating attack on southern Israel on October 7, killing 1,140 people and taking up to 250 hostages. Gallant’s comments on Tuesday came as the war in Gaza showed new signs of spreading outside Israel and the Palestinian territories. Earlier in the day, Egypt said a
drone was shot down near the Red Sea resort city of Dahab, the second such occurrence in a month. The drone’s origin was not immediately clear, but Yemen’s Houthi rebels, which are aligned to Iran, have disrupted global trade in the Red Sea with attacks on international vessels and have launched drones and missiles towards Israel, The Guardian reported. Explosions in the Red Sea off the coast of Yemen were also reported on Tuesday. On Saturday, the US defence department had explicitly blamed Iran for the first time for a drone attack targeting a chemical tanker in the Indian Ocean.
Iran retracts claims that Oct 7 Hamas attacks on Israel were revenge for Soleimani January 2, 2020, that killed Gen. Soleimani. Sharif also said the killing of a top Iranian military advisor by Israel this week would draw a military response from Iran "directly or indirectly".
Washington, Dec 28 (IANS) Iran has virtually retracted its earlier comment that the October 7 attacks by Hamas on Israel was an act of revenge for the assassination of an Iranian General Qasem Soleimani four years ago claiming the comments were "misunderstood and incompletely conveyed". An Iranian General on Wednesday walked back his claim that the deadly October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel was "revenge" for the assassination of an Iranian General four years ago, telling AlAraby his comments earlier in the day were "incompletely conveyed" and "misunderstood", media reports said . Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) spokesman Ramazan Sharif had earlier sought to link the Hamas attacks, dubbed Operation Al-Aqsa Storm, to a US drone strike in Iraq on
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USA Today reported that the US Justice Department, in a heavily redacted 2020 memorandum, said Soleimani had commanded the guard's elite Quds Force since the late 1990s and was a "key architect of Iran's campaign of terrorism, assassinations and violence throughout the Middle East". The Iranian government, known to fund Hamas, has repeatedly denied any involvement in the October attack that killed 1,200 Israelis in communities along the Gaza border. Hamas issued a statement Wednesday rejecting Sharif's claim linking the attack to Iran, saying the attack was primarily a response to "dangers that threaten al-Aqsa Mosque" in Jerusalem, which had seen clashes between Israeli settlers and Muslim worshippers, reports said . Sharif, however, was firm in his pledge of an Iranian military response to the killing of Iranian Brig. Gen. Razi Mousavi, targeted Monday in an Israeli airstrike on his Damascus home. Israel
had accused Mousavi of being a key player in Tehran’s efforts to supply weapons to Hamas and Lebanon’s militant Hezbollah. "Iran will take harsh and strong revenge," Sharif said, accusing Israel of killing Mousavi as a way of "escaping from its defeat in Gaza and its failures there, and to divert the world’s attention from a war crime". Meanwhile Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu clashed over 'Hitler' remark. Turkish and Israeli leaders engaged in a war of words on Wednesday over Israeli actions against Hamas militants in Gaza described by Erdogan as "no different" from those of Adolf Hitler. Netanyahu struck back, accusing Erdogan of carrying out genocide against Kurds and holding a "world record number" of opposition journalists in jails. "Erdogan... is the last person who can preach morality to us," Netanyahu said, adding that Israel has "the most moral army in the world." War cabinet minister Benny Gantz, a political foe of Netanyahu, dismissed Erdogan's remarks as blatant distortions of reality and a desecration of the Holocaust’s memory".
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Washington, Dec 26 (IANS) Former US President Donald Trump unleashed a torrent of 'fury and bitterness' on social media focused on his legal woes in his Christmas message to supporters, giving a virtual trailer on his personal obsessions and discords he will inflict on the nation in 2024. Most global political, spiritual and national leaders mark Christmas with a plea for peace, or by stressing the virtues of family and unity. But that’s not Donald Trump’s style. The ex-President unleashed an online torrent of fury and bitterness, largely over his legal plights, spanning Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, previewing the discord and personal obsessions he will inflict on the nation in a pivotal election year in 2024, media reports said. Trump said that he will include ‘thugs’ of United States who are ‘looking to destroy our once great USA’. “Included also are World Leaders, both good and bad, but none of which are as evil and ‘sick’ as the THUGS we have inside our Country who, with their Open Borders, INFLATION, Afghanistan Surrender, Green New Scam, High Taxes, No Energy Independence,
Woke Military, Russia/Ukraine, Israel/Iran, All Electric Car Lunacy, and so much more, are looking to destroy our once great USA. MAY THEY ROT IN HELL. AGAIN, MERRY CHRISTMAS!” the former President posted. Trump raged at President Joe Biden and special counsel Jack Smith making "expansive and false claims" that his attempts to stay in power after losing the 2020 elections represented a vital defence of American democracy and were thus perfectly legal, CNN reported, analysing his social media posts, particularly on his own Truth Social. Trump virtually laced his rhetoric with extreme views on immigration, drawing a parallel with Nazism of the 1940s and presented an outlook of unlimited presidential power which critics feared would unveil his autocracy if he wins the 2024 electiona. True to his statement of being dictator for a day in his presidency. Even as moderate right-wingers in his party have asked him to forget 2020 and focus on 2024, Trump, the front-runner in GOP, continued to underscore his alleged claims about 'stolen' elections three years ago, making it the sheet anchor of his 2024 political campaign. Trump's tirades come at a time when Americans celebrate Christmas with loved ones and seek a moment of peace, that clearly shows his furious state of mind and extreme state of denialism.
S.Korea’s Defence chief calls for vengeance in event of N.Korean provocation at the memorial monument at the headquarters of the Navy's Second Fleet. In 2010, North Korea torpedoed the 1,200-ton-class Cheonan corvette near the western Northern Limit Line, the de-facto inter-Korean sea border, killing 46 South Korean sailors, Yonhap news agency reported. Seoul, Dec 26 (IANS) South Korea's Defence Chief on Tuesday instructed Navy officials to mercilessly bury North Korean sailors at sea in the event of another North Korean provocation. Defence Minister Shin Won-sik made the remark as he inspected the new 2,800-ton ROKS Cheonan frigate, which was deployed for operations to the headquarters of the Navy's Second Fleet in Pyeongtaek, 60 km south of Seoul, on Saturday. Shin told Navy officials and sailors to "mercilessly bury (the enemy) at sea if the enemy stages yet another provocation" after he paid tribute to 46 fallen sailors
A Seoul-led multinational investigation concluded that Pyongyang torpedoed the Cheonan warship, but the North Korea has denied its involvement in the incident. The new Cheonan is the seventh warship produced as part of South Korea's plans to procure eight new frigates designed to replace its aging fleet of 1,500-ton frigates and 1,000-ton corvettes. The 122-metre-long frigate has a helicopter deck, and is equipped with anti-ship and ship-toground missiles, anti-submarine torpedoes, as well as hull mounted and towed array sonar systems to better detect enemy submarines.
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Nijjar’s murder suspects in Canada to Gaza war can spill into a be arrested in coming weeks: Report regional conflict: UN Chief
Toronto, Dec 28 (IANS) Canada's Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is expected to arrest two men, who investigators believe fatally shot Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June this year, and are still in the country, a media report said.
It remains unclear whether the RCMP are expected to arrest any suspected accomplices in the slaying, especially after The Washington Post reported in September, citing video footage and witness accounts, that at least six men and two vehicles were involved in the killing. The RCMP is yet to respond to questions from the daily about the investigation and whether charges were imminent.
The suspects, who have been under police surveillance for months, can be arrested and charged in a matter of weeks, The Globe and Mail newspaper reported, citing sources.
Nijjar, 45, was fatally shot multiple times by unidentified gunmen outside a Sikh temple in British Columbia province on June 18, following which Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian government in September of being involved in the shooting.
The three sources told the daily that police will explain the alleged assassins’ involvement and that of the Indian government when charges are laid against the two men.
India vehemently denied Trudeau's claims, calling them "absurd and motivated" after which bilateral relations went off the course with tit-for-tat expulsion of diplomats, New Delhi
According to the Indian government, Nijjar was “actively involved in operationalising, networking, training and financing” members of the banned militant group Khalistan Tiger Force. Reacting to Trudeau's remarks, India's Ministry of External Affairs said, "as far as Canada is concerned, they have consistently given space to antiIndia extremists and violence. That is at the heart of the issue". In an interview to Canadian Press this month, Trudeau said that his statement linking Indian agents to the killing of Nijjar was meant to deter India from repeating a similar action in the country. He said the message was intended as an extra 'level of deterrence' as "too many Canadians were worried that they were vulnerable".
Indian food firm in Singapore charged after live cockroaches found in premises
Singapore, Dec 27 (IANS) An Indian food supplier firm was charged in Singapore on Wednesday after live cockroaches were allegedly found among chutney packets and at the chapati-making area in the premises. Suvai Foods was handed three
charges under the Sale of Food Act after numerous lapses were found at its premises at Aljunied Avenue, The Straits Times reported.
several areas, including in a grey basket containing packets of Suvai Coconut Chutney, at the chapatimaking area and on the food processing machine.
Founded in Singapore in 2012, the company sells vegetarian and halal products, and boasts of being the only company in South-east Asia that produces preservative-free batter, and that its products have a unique, authentic taste.
Three live cockroaches were allegedly also found at the rear of its registered goods vehicle.
According to the chargesheet, the premises were allegedly stained and dirty with broken floor tiles, and its office space was illegally modified to be used as a packing area. Live cockroaches were found in
The prosecutor from the Singapore Food Agency said they would be seeking a fine for each of the charges when the case is expected to be heard again on January 24, 2024. If convicted of failing to ensure its establishment is properly maintained and kept clean, Suvai Foods can be fined up to SG$5,000.
L’Oreal heiress is first woman to amass a fortune of $100bn her death in 2017. L’Oreal was founded in 1909 by Eugene Schueller, Bettencourt Meyers’s grandfather, to manufacture and market a hair dye he had invented, The Guardian reported. London, Dec 29 (IANS) The L’Oreal heiress and businesswoman, Francoise Bettencourt Meyers, has become the first woman to amass a fortune of $100bn, media reports said. Bettencourt Meyers, who is French, broke through the barrier on Thursday thanks to a rise in the share price of the cosmetics empire she inherited from her mother, who also held the title of the world’s richest woman until
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Based in the north-western Parisian suburb of Clichy, in the region of Hauts-de-Seine, it has grown into a globe-straddling colossus valued at €241bn (£209bn) on the Paris stock exchange. The famously reclusive Bettencourt Meyers, 70, and her family, remain the largest shareholders with a stake of nearly 35 per cent, the value of which has helped her wealth balloon by $28.6bn this year to reach $100bn, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.
wider regional conflagration, the longer the conflict in Gaza continues, given the risk of escalation and miscalculation by multiple actors,” media reports quoting Guterres as saying in a statement.
temporarily suspending visa operations in Canada, and Ottawa calling off trade talks.
Bettencourt Meyers was far from alone in growing richer during a year in which the fortunes of billionaires generally increased significantly, even as the cost of living crisis affected countries across the world. Of the world’s 50 richest people, 12 lost money in 2023 while the remainder watched their piles grow, albeit without adjusting for inflation. In a list dominated by men, mostly from the US, Bettencourt Meyers remains 12th in a ranking topped by Elon Musk, the Tesla and SpaceX founder. Bettencourt Meyers was not the highestplaced French person. Bernard Arnault, the luxury goods tycoon, has a $179bn fortune that has grown by $16.9bn in 2023, thanks to the performance of his LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton) group.
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He said that the burgeoning violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank by Israeli forces and Israeli settlers is extremely alarming. “As is fighting between Hezbollah and Israel across the south Lebanon border, attacks from Iraq and Syria, and the Houthis attacking shipping in the Red Sea,” the UN Chief said. New Delhi, Dec 30 (IANS) UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has reiterated his concerns that the war in Gaza can spill over into a regional conflict, media reports said. “There is a continued risk of
He has again appealed to all members of the international community to do everything in their power to use their influence on the relevant parties to prevent an escalation of the situation in the region.
China calls on int’l community to promote ceasefire in Gaza Palestinians, who have been repeatedly forced to move, have nowhere else to go, said Geng.
United Nations, Dec 30 (IANS) A Chinese envoy on called on the international community to promote a ceasefire in Gaza. More than 80 days have passed since the outbreak of this round of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and more than 2 million innocent people in Gaza have been plunged into an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe, said Geng Shuang, China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, Xinhua news agency reported. This is in spite of the fact that both the UN General Assembly and the Security Council have respectively adopted a number of resolutions, strongly calling for a ceasefire, for an end to the collective punishment of innocent people of Gaza, and for compliance by the occupying power with international law and international humanitarian law, he said. The international community must pull all its efforts to promote a ceasefire, mitigate the catastrophe, and save lives, he told the Security Council. The protraction of the war will only cause more casualties on both sides, exacerbate the obstacles to humanitarian assistance, and undermine the prospects for a political settlement, he warned. There is no safe place in Gaza and hundreds of thousands of
"China urges Israel to immediately cease its indiscriminate military attacks and collective punishment of the people of Gaza and to provide the necessary conditions for humanitarian agencies to carry out their assistance work in Gaza," he said. The current humanitarian situation in Gaza is extremely dire, with life-saving supplies nearly exhausted, the medical system paralyzed, social order on the verge of collapse, tens of thousands of pregnant women facing the threat of extreme starvation and newborns being deprived of feeding because of their mother's malnutrition, he said. China calls on all parties to effectively and fully implement Security Council Resolution 2720, which seeks to boost humanitarian assistance in Gaza. China looks forward to the early establishment of a mechanism to ensure the safe and unimpeded entry of adequate humanitarian supplies into Gaza, he added. The crux of the protracted Palestinian-Israeli issue lies in the failure to implement the two-state solution and the failure to guarantee the fundamental rights of the Palestinian people, he noted. China calls for an international peace conference that is more broad-based and more effective, so as to expedite the formation of a timetable on the roadmap for the implementation of the twostate solution, Geng said, adding that China supports Palestine's full membership in the United Nations and the early resumption of direct negotiations between Palestine and Israel.
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From the editor’s desk It is imperative to rebuild trust between India and Pakistan The recent declaration from Pakistan expressing its earnest desire for peaceful relations with all nations, notably India, marks a crucial juncture for fostering regional stability. The age-old tensions and conflicts between the two nations have often obscured the potential for collaboration. To embark on the path of lasting peace, transparent diplomacy and open dialogue between Pakistan and India are paramount. Establishing regular diplomatic channels, such as high-level dialogues and backchannel negotiations, is crucial to fostering open communication and creating a conducive atmosphere for conflict resolution. Prioritizing frank and honest discussions can pave the way for mutual understanding and the resolution of longstanding issues, laying the foundation for a more stable relationship. India's concerns about crossborder terrorism have been a persistent issue, impacting trust between the two nations. To win India's trust, Pakistan must undertake concrete and verifiable actions to dismantle terrorist networks within its borders. Cooperation on intelligence sharing and joint counter-terrorism initiatives can play a pivotal role in demonstrating a commitment to regional security. Implementing and enforcing strict measures to curb cross-border terrorism, cooperating with international agencies, and extraditing individuals involved in terrorist activities are steps towards rebuilding trust. Economic collaboration stands as a potential catalyst for improved relations between Pakistan and India. Exploring avenues for enhanced trade and economic cooperation can create a positive economic environment that transcends political differences. By removing trade barriers, fostering investment, and promoting joint ventures, both nations can benefit economically while building mutual interdependence that acts as a deterrent to hostilities. Initiating talks to liberalize trade, streamline customs processes, and encourage crossborder investments are crucial steps in this direction. Cultural and societal interactions are pivotal in building trust and fostering understanding between nations. Encouraging people-to-people initiatives, such as cultural exchanges, student programs, and tourism, can break down stereotypes and build bridges between communities on both sides. Facilitating cultural exchange programs, increasing
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educational opportunities for students from both countries, and promoting tourism are integral measures to create a sense of shared heritage and understanding. The longstanding issue of Kashmir has been a perennial source of contention between India and Pakistan. A sincere effort to find a just and equitable resolution that respects the aspirations of the Kashmiri people can significantly contribute to building trust. Engaging in meaningful and result-oriented discussions on the Kashmir issue, considering the perspectives of all stakeholders, is essential for achieving a resolution that respects the rights and aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Understanding why building trust is essential underscores its critical role in regional stability. The South Asian region holds immense potential for economic growth and cooperation, and stable relations between Pakistan and India would contribute significantly to overall stability and prosperity. A peaceful environment opens doors to economic opportunities, allowing both nations to leverage their geographic proximity and complementarity in various sectors for mutual benefit. Addressing cross-border terrorism is vital for the security of both nations. Cooperation in intelligence-sharing and joint counter-terrorism measures can enhance the security landscape in the region, ensuring the safety and well-being of populations on both sides of the border. The international community closely observes relations between India and Pakistan, and a commitment to peaceful coexistence enhances the global standing of both nations. It opens doors for diplomatic cooperation, trade partnerships, and collaborative efforts in addressing global challenges. Resolving longstanding issues, such as the Kashmir dispute, is not merely a matter of political significance but a humanitarian imperative. Seeking peaceful solutions that prioritize the wellbeing and aspirations of those directly affected by protracted conflicts is an obligation both nations owe to their people. Therefore, the recent statement from Pakistan expressing its commitment to peaceful relations with all countries, including India, is a welcome step, and presents a unique opportunity for both nations to chart a new course towards cooperation and stability.
EDITORIAL
India needs to balance relations with Russia & the US By Rabindra Mukherjee In an era defined by intricate geopolitical dynamics, India finds itself strategically positioned as a key player on the global stage. Central to its diplomatic finesse is the imperative to balance relations with two major powers—Russia and the United States. There is the critical need for India to maintain equilibrium in its relationships with these nations. India's delicate position As the world witnesses a recalibration of power dynamics, India stands at a crossroads, carefully navigating the intricate geopolitical chessboard. Historically, India has shared a robust partnership with Russia, rooted in defense cooperation and shared strategic interests. Simultaneously, the burgeoning relationship with the United States has opened avenues for technological advancements, economic collaborations, and shared security objectives. Striking a balance between these two relationships is imperative for India's pursuit of strategic autonomy, economic growth, and global influence. Now, the reasons for balancing relations are quite apparent. Looking at the geopolitical situation, it is imperative that these reasons should determine India’s foreign relations, and some of these factors are universal and of general nature. While there are many reasons requiring a balanced outlook, diverse security concerns, beckoning of economic opportunities and strategic autonomy are more significant than others. To begin with diverse security concerns must be taken into consideration in determining the relationships India forges with either of the two countries. India must, therefore, have its priorities clear. This is the need of the hour, and time is of utmost essence in politics, more so in the international political environment. While rhetoric may have a role, the ground reality is what matters and must be taken into consideration. Swift decision-making, rather than a very slow and tentative response may not be in the interest of countries, least of all, in the interest of India. Diverse security concerns India grapples with a myriad of security challenges, ranging from traditional threats to emerging cyber threats. While Russia has been a steadfast ally in providing defense capabilities and strategic support, the United States offers advanced technology, counterterrorism collaboration, and shared maritime security goals. A balanced approach ensures that India can effectively address its multifaceted security concerns by drawing on the strengths of both nations. Economic opportunities The economic landscape
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plays a pivotal role in India's pursuit of balanced relations. The United States, boasting the world's largest economy, offers India access to cuttingedge technologies, substantial investments, and expansive markets. Concurrently, Russia's economic ties extend beyond defense cooperation, encompassing energy, infrastructure, and trade. Maintaining a balance allows India to harness economic opportunities from both partners, contributing to sustainable development. Strategic autonomy In a multipolar world, maintaining strategic autonomy is paramount for India. Aligning too closely with any single power risks compromising India's ability to pursue its national interests objectively. A balanced engagement strategy enables India to interact with each nation based on specific issues, avoiding undue influence from the geopolitical considerations of any single partner. There also arises the need for steps to achieve a balanced relationship. What could be the steps to achieve a balanced relationship? Diversifying defense procurement
India has traditionally been a significant importer of defense equipment from Russia. To achieve balance, India should diversify its sources of defense procurement by deepening engagement with the United States. Joint ventures, technology transfers, and collaborative efforts in research and development can enhance defense capabilities while fostering a balanced relationship. For instance, establishing joint defense projects with Russia, while simultaneously deepening defense ties with the US through agreements like the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement. Economic diplomacy & trade Leveraging economic engagement with both Russia and the United States is crucial for achieving a balanced relationship. While trade with the US opens doors to advanced technologies and a vast consumer market, economic ties with Russia, particularly in the energy sector, contribute to energy security and economic diversification. Expanding trade partnerships with the US in areas like technology, healthcare, and services, while concurrently exploring economic collaboration with Russia in sectors such as energy, pharmaceuticals, and infrastructure. Strategic dialogue & multilateral forums Active participation in multilateral forums provides India with a platform to engage with both Russia and the United States on shared global challenges. The BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa)
and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation offer avenues for collaborative discussions beyond bilateral relationships. Strengthening India's role in international organizations like the United Nations and participating in regional initiatives involving both Russia and the US fosters a cooperative approach to global problemsolving. Energy security collaboration Given the strategic importance of energy security, India should collaborate with both Russia and the United States to diversify its energy sources. While Russia significantly contributes to India's energy needs, cooperation with the US in renewable energy and technology can enhance sustainability. For instance, continuing collaboration with Russia in nuclear energy projects, while simultaneously exploring partnerships with the US in renewable energy projects and technology transfer. Counterterrorism cooperation Both Russia and the United States share concerns about global terrorism. Strengthening counterterrorism cooperation with both nations is essential for India's security. Informationsharing, joint intelligence operations, and collaborative efforts to counter radicalization can be pivotal in this regard. Coordinating intelligencesharing mechanisms with the US through existing agreements like the Information Exchange and Liaison while simultaneously engaging with Russia in joint efforts to combat terrorism, particularly in the context of regional challenges. Cultural & educational exchanges Promoting people-to-people ties through cultural and educational exchanges is integral to building a comprehensive understanding between nations. Facilitating student exchanges, organizing cultural events, and fostering academic collaborations contribute to building goodwill and strengthening ties. Expanding initiatives like the Fulbright Program and fostering cultural events that showcase the rich heritage of both countries encourages mutual understanding and fosters connections beyond the political realm. The bottom line is, India's strategic dance on the global stage requires finesse, with the imperative of balancing relations with both Russia and the United States at its core. As a nation on the rise, India must carefully weigh the benefits of cooperation with these major powers while safeguarding its autonomy and pursuing its
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Jan 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 11
Routine is important New Delhi: The senior who taught me work in my career in Intelligence would often remind me of two things -- one must ‘distinguish essentials from non-essentials’ and one ‘must not neglect the routine’. I later realised that the first was the substratum of a competent Intelligence Analysis while the latter was a cardinal principle of work in a situation that called for a constant updating of information.
an adversary. On the other hand in Intelligence, keeping things pending is highly discouraged for it could result in avoidable failure of action producing serious repercussions.
The boss was perhaps not even aware that from sheer experience he was being original about stating what had become the famous Pareto’s Principle laying down ‘there are a significant few amongst the insignificant many’.
A certain amount of discipline is needed to fulfil personal engagements and this might turn out to be as important and rewarding at the workplace also where it adds to the impression of the person being loyal to the organisation.
As regards ‘routine’ it provides confidence, education and an insight into whatever could be done more efficiently. It is a stress buster. Handling Intelligence matters is a mental engagement and therefore there is no fear of the routine here becoming an unproductive mechanical ‘habit’. Maria Montessori famously said that a successful teacher should be able to say ‘Children are working as if I did not exist’ - doing the routine like a class attended should instil a sense of independence. In Intelligence, routine work by its very nature, is never too repetitive. It combines new elements with whatever was known already and this made it an ongoing learning experience. Past here is relevant only in as much as it might help to foresee the course of a threat because it gave a peep into the modus operandi of
There is a positive side to keeping up the routine, in personal life too. In the area of health, the part of the routine geared to an exercise regimen is clearly valuable and so is the adherence to one’s duty by the children to be performed on a daily basis.
The idea of ‘routine’ suggesting that one should try to do something beyond what was done every day - both at work and outside the work area - is a good thought for keeping you from ‘boredom’ of any kind and enhancing your output and hence your confidence in yourself. What is crucial is that you bring to bear a degree of mental involvement and concentration in whatever you are doing - it ensures enhanced productivity because the greater the concentration the bigger will be the quantum of results achieved in the same period. The routine does not become any less important just because you are working on it every day - provided that the efficiency with which it is handled does not diminish on account of
any discounting thoughts of ‘repetition’. Very often your performance evaluation may get linked to your ability to maintain your efficiency even when the duty was repetitive. Routine is life. Routine is purposefulness. And routine is sanity. One has to be either too rich to need a work routine or sometimes too poor to have any of it. Work-life balance ultimately determines the quality of life. One should be thankful for having a ‘routine of work’ to be attended to. Indian philosophy equates life with Karma or ‘action’ and pitches Dharma or ‘work in the line of duty’ as the highest mandate of life. Routine certainly acquires a special meaning in this thought and becomes a positive attribute in terms of fulfilment, mindful existence and striving for improvement. Routine defines the content of life, puts the stamp of individuality in a situation of collective endeavour and connects with the human ecosystem at large. One is entitled to look at the routine with a sense of pride and regard it as the chain of continuity in one’s story of life. In the era of ‘smart’ living, the routine should evolve but never break down so that there is peace and stability in life. In Intelligence, the routine is ‘dynamic’ for it combines the past and the present to envisage what lies ahead. How to handle routine is a subject matter of special studies, social analysis and business research. The secret of success is said to lie in your daily routine and there is more than one logic behind this stipulation. First, brains
are hardwired for routine and therefore the familiarity of the set pattern makes it less tedious to make a decision. On the other hand, it is also true that ‘you will never change your life until you change something you do daily’. The importance of being out of your comfort zone for a brief while tends to make you more disciplined, bold and innovative. It has been rightly said- ‘if you are not having fun you are doing it wrong’. Further, time management regarded now as a critical skill is one thing that can be improved upon by you on your own initiative and this is an established means of enhancing productivity and getting credit for it. A scientific approach to handling routine can help in this. Prioritisation suggests itself. The thought that it would be more productive to take up several small tasks first is questioned by the scientific logic that the energy levels are the highest to start with and hence more important tasks should be taken up in the beginning. From all of this it can be concluded that routine need not be ‘dull and draining’ and improving its handling by applying the learning from experience, could make it an enjoyable and fulfilling means of building one’s leadership acumen. Coming back to my senior in IB who counselled against any ‘neglect of the routine’, I can clearly see how he was drawing from his experience of the institutional importance that information updates had in Intelligence, the requirement of a quick logical follow up on any
SPECIAL FEATURES report in this profession and the situation where some operational or personnel-related problem might have been brought to the notice of the organisation by people closer to the ground below. Intelligence work goes on 24/7 and it is part of the basic grooming of an entrant that there should be a total awareness of the fact that Intelligence does not permit a gap between ‘information’ and ‘action’. ‘Office hours’ do not have much sanctity for members of an Intelligence agency who may not go home in the midst of work should that become necessary and who would do so without being asked by the ‘boss’. Much before the success of the Information Technology revolution changed the ways of the world, Intelligence organisations knew and practised ways of making ‘instant communication’ that was ‘secure’ at the same time. Further, an Intelligence organisation does not let any notions of ‘vertical hierarchy’ mar the speed of response to a threat. Not clearing matters that sounded ‘routine’ on a day-to-day basis -- apart from things that carried the tag of urgency -- is therefore not upheld by the organisational ethics in the profession of Intelligence. Many years ago, the then chief of IB deprecated the use of the mark ‘Most Immediate’ on documents saying that ‘Immediate was immediate enough’ and thus underscoring the importance of quick movement of files at all times, in an Intelligence setting. (The writer is a former Director of the Intelligence Bureau. Views are personal)
Inspirational narratives of marginalised students making a positive impact in their communities By Kushal Raj Chakravorty December 21, 2023 (IANSlife) In the face of adversity, marginalisaed students are emerging as catalysts for positive change within their communities. Through tireless efforts and a commitment to inclusivity, they are reshaping narratives, bridging divides, and championing causes that uplift the underprivileged. Led by resilient spirit and unwavering determination, these students, hailing from diverse cultural backgrounds, united to create a platform for change. Despite personal struggles and systemic hurdles, these students became beacons of hope, channelling their own experiences into empathy-driven actions. Shilpi Jaiswal Coming from a lower-middleclass family where her father is a driver and her mother a homemaker, Shilpi grew up with 5 siblings in a household run by her father, the sole bread earner. She completed her class 12th and was looking for courses that could give an edge to her career. She joined the Jeevika Skill Development Program when her elder sister’s friend informed her about the www.indianews.com.au
program focused on BFSI which was an ESSAI-certified course and the fact that the program offered a 100% job guarantee intrigued her interest. Currently, Shilpi is excelling in her first job as a Donor Servicing Trainee at the Lotus Petal Foundation, with her ace MS Excel skills, while also pursuing her graduation in B.Com (Hons) from Delhi University. Saloni Raj Saloni’s childhood was not the usual one. Coming from a broken family her mother, a househelp had to run away from the house with her children to save them from her abusive husband. After a life of struggles on the streets, Saloni joined the Lotus Petal Foundation when she was 14 years old in 2013. With low learning levels, her relationship with education even at the age of 14 was similar to a younger child. However, by 2014, with a customized curriculum catering to her fractured learning, Saloni’s journey to quality education started picking up and by 2018, her results significantly improved. In 2019, by the age of 20, Saloni had cleared the National Medical Entrance Examination (NEET) paving her way to kick-start her
medical studies. Currently, she is in the last year of her course and soon she shall become a Doctor. Gudiya Kumari With her father running a small food stall and her mother being a tailor, Gudiya grew up in a difficult household. Growing up with 5 siblings, she knew from an early age that she would have to work harder for her dreams of becoming an air hostess. However, life and its challenges had other plans. Gudiya joined as a 1st-year student of the Pratishthan Learning Center- A unique Fast-Track Education Program through which out-ofschool teenagers with fractured learning can complete their education in a 5-year-based learning program. She also underwent vocational hospitality training, giving her well-rounded training, enabling her to ace job interviews and finally get her first job as Executive- Software Testing at Unify Dots. Hritik Sethi Hailing from a middle-class family, the son of a tailor & a homemaker, he wanted to pursue a course after high school that would give him an edge which is why he enrolled himself in
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the computer hardware and networking course under the Jeevika Skill Development Program. After rigorous training with both practical and theoretical knowledge along with exposure to industrial training, he was able to grasp the concepts fundamentally giving him a confident grasp on his subjects. Today he is successfully working at his new job while pursuing his graduation from IGNOU. Hritik Sethi is an alumnus of the Computer Hardware & Networking course under the program run by the Lotus Petal Foundation and successfully got his first job in Teleperformance as a Technical Support Engineer. Hritik has bagged the highest package per annum from the Jeevika graduates. Rahul Saini Rahul Saini is working as a Technical Engineer with MegaMax. He is an alumnus of the Computer Hardware and Networking course under the same program. He lost his father at an early age and was supported by his mother. Before joining this course, he had already completed his Polytechnic course however, when he got to know about the
Jeevika Program’s industrymapped courses which are ESSAI certified and offer 100% job placement with affordable tuition fees, Rahul became intrigued about the program and enrolled himself in 6 months certification course. Today, he is well-placed in his new job where he is learning the ropes of the professional world while impressing everyone with his computer skills. All of them have chosen different programs of Lotus Petal Foundation. Our alumni are our pride. We have a special bond with all of them and share an encouraging journey that we have travelled together. They are the living example of the organization’s achievements and the values we stand for – ‘Change Lives, One Child At A Time’. The stories of our students reflect the impact of our interventions. Their stories of change inspire us to work tirelessly towards our goals and encourage us to be focused and stay true to our efforts.
(Kushal Raj Chakravorty is the founder and managing trustee of Lotus Petal Foundation)
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Jan 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 11
INDIA NEWS
BUSINESS & TRADE
India’s forex reserves soar to 2023 may have been cryptocurrencies 20-month high of $615.97 billion Two high-profile court cases are expected to greenlight best year ever year. came down in the industry’s applications for the very first spot favour. And a long-awaited approval for a mainstream investment product is expected in January, potentially flooding the scene with new investors, CNN reported.
New York, Dec 25 (IANS) Crypto’s 14th year in existence was one marred by scandal, bankruptcy, fraud and regulatory squabbling. It still may have been the industry’s best year ever, CNN reported. Despite all the bad press, the young industry notched some notable wins. Bitcoin, the crypto’s bellwether asset, is up 160 per cent for the
Like the rest of the financial world, digital assets got a boost from an improving macroeconomic picture in cooling inflation, a growing economy, and a long-awaited end in sight for the Fed’s interest rate hikes. “2023 was a bad year for grifters and a good year for builders,” says Faryar Shirzad, the chief policy officer for Coinbase. “We’re going into 2024 with many of the worst of the grifters out of the market, and that’s a good thing.” The main event for crypto in 2024 could come as soon as next month, when US regulators
Put simply, a spot bitcoin ETF allows investors to track the price of bitcoin without actually owning the digital currency. That’s appealing for mainstream investors for a few reasons. First, it gives everyday investors who are wary of crypto a relatively safe way to dip their toe in the notoriously volatile market, CNN reported. ETFs also trade on traditional stock exchanges, which means investors can access them through their tried-and-true brokerage rather than creating a new account in the crypto-verse. And, of course, the prospect of regulatory oversight adds another layer of protection and transparency.
With rising population and soaring temperature, industry invests in R&D practices in agriculture
New Delhi, Dec 22 (IANS) The Agriculture landscape is evolving at a rapid rate to cater to the diversifying needs of farmers and consumers worldwide. The driving force behind this evolution is Research and Development (R&D). It fosters innovation and is a crucial determinant of agricultural productivity, sustainability and therefore food prices and poverty. But with global population on the constant rise and rising temperatures making the farming sector more resource-hungry, the farming sector is in for a stiff challenge ahead and agriculture companies will have to harness their R&D prowess to make this sector more resilient through constant resource upgrades and production. With India being the most populous country, there’s
growing need for scientific solutions to develop crops that are not only resilient to aberrant weather events but also use less land, fertiliser, water and crop protection chemicals.
are not only effective in delivering high-yielding products but also affordable to smallholder farmers, ultimately enhancing their income and improving farming practices.”
In response, companies like Honda India Power Products, an industry leader in agricultural equipment and power product manufacturing are investing in R&D practices to provide portable and cutting-edge farm mechanization solutions for every stage of farming.
While precision agriculture leverages advanced tech like drones, sensors, and satellites to optimize farming practices, specialized farming techniques like Vertical farming and System of Rice Intensification (SRI) are also used to address specific challenges in agriculture. Such interventions are particularly crucial in regions grappling with water or land scarcity and where there is larger dependency on traditional farming methods due to lack of resources.
Likewise, Crystal Crop Protection Limited, a leading Agrochemical company, are boosting India’s agriculture ecosystem with innovative R&D approaches. Speaking on Crystal Crop’s mission, its Managing Director, Ankur Aggarwal said: “As an organisation, we take a ‘Farmers First’ approach. Our endeavour has always been to ensure that Indian farmers are not hamstrung by a lack of new technology. As such, our R&D efforts are overseen by a team of over 40 scientists specialising in diverse aspects of agriscience and we strive to develop solutions that
Nestled in the Western ghats region, several villages in the Velhe taluka in Maharashtra have been engaged in intensive paddy cultivation for years. However, despite receiving heavy rainfall, the region is particularly susceptible to water scarcity owing to its topography and low ground water retention, the impact of climate change and the lack of non-natural sources of water for irrigation.
Bose invests $10 mn in Noise, takes Indian brand’s valuation past $400 mnw brand Noise, taking its valuation to nearly $426 million. Noise’s first-ever funding was part of the Series A round, where it allowed 2,400 Series A preference shares to Bose, according to its regulatory filings.
New Delhi, Dec 25 (IANS) Bose, a global pioneer in consumer electronics and audio, has invested $10 million in homegrown consumer electronics
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With this strategic investment, Bose will have 2.17 per cent stake in the company, according to reports.Noise’s first-ever funding is a significant milestone for India’s largest profitable D2C business. Amit Khatri, CoFounder, Noise, said last week that the strategic alliance with
In the week ended December 1, the foreign exchange reserves had shot up by $6.1 billion to touch an over four-month high of $604.04 billion.
bitcoin ETF, or exchange traded fund, in the American market.
Bose will be a pivotal juncture in their journey towards revolutionising the future of smart wearables realm. "We are excited to partner with a company like Bose whose technical expertise and global experience will help us augment our capabilities and elevate our offerings," he added. In just less than five years of its inception, Noise has opened doors to myriad opportunities that smart wearables bring, helping unlock the potential of human excellence.
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Mumbai, Dec 22 (IANS) India's foreign exchange reserves increased for the fifth week in a row to scale a 20-month high of $615.97 billion as of December 15, a data released by the RBI on Friday showed. The country's foreign exchange reserves jumped by $9.11 billion for the week ending December 15 after having increased by $2.82 billion to $606.86 billion for the week ending on December 8.
An increase in the foreign exchange reserves props up the marcoeconomic fundamentals of the economy and helps the RBI to stabilise the rupee when it turns volatile. The RBI intervenes in the spot and forward currency markets by releasing more dollars to prevent the rupee from going into a free fall when it comes under pressure. Any sharp decline in the country's forex kitty leaves the RBI less headroom to intervene in the market to stabilise the rupee.
Govt launches scheme to boost Medtech startups be achieved which will take
India miles ahead in becoming Atmanirbhar and achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat,” he said.
New Delhi, Dec 25 (IANS) The government launched the MedTech Mitra platform on Monday as part of a strategic initiative to empower India’s MedTech innovators and reduce the country’s dependence on imported medical devices. “MedTech Mitra is a platform that will help the young talents of the country by holding their hands to give final shape to their research and help them in getting regulatory approval,” Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said at the inaugural event. Lauding the initiative and efforts of the innovators and youth, Mandaviya said that there is immense power among the innovators, researchers and youth startups in the country who know how to do Research and Logic Development. “If one gets help at the approval stage itself, then wonders can
Noting that India’s MedTech sector is 80 per cent dependent on imports, the minister said that this collaborative initiative will facilitate indigenous development of affordable, quality MedTech devices and diagnostics leading to considerable reduction in the import dependence of this sector. “The medical devices sector is an essential and integral constituent of India’s healthcare sector. Pursuing the vision of Viksit Bharat, India is taking a holistic approach to health with a vision to transform the health landscape in the country by 2047,” he said. He pointed out that the sector has seen phenomenal progress to ensure medical devices are supplied within the country with the implementation of production linked incentive schemes and investments for medical drug parks, MedTech research policy and MedTech research incentive scheme. Underscoring the growth and potential of this sector, Mandaviya said, that “I am confident India will grow to become $50 billion industry by 2030.”
SCOPE launches $45 mn VC fund for fintech, gaming startups exceptional promise and disruptive potential.
New Delhi, Dec 26 (IANS) SCOPE, the invite-only startup networking platform, on Tuesday launched a venture capital fund worth $45 million, focused on fintech and gaming sectors. SCOPE’s VC arm will operate as an independent entity to identifying, nurturing, and accelerating groundbreaking startups that demonstrate
The VC arm will actively scout for startups demonstrating innovative solutions, disruptive technologies, and the potential to redefine industry norms within Fintech and Gaming. “Fintech and Gaming are not just industries; they are dynamic ecosystems driving global change. With SCOPE’s VC, we aspire to be a catalyst for startups with audacious visions, providing the support they need to redefine the future,” said Appalla Saikiran, Founder and CEO of SCOPE.
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Best parks to visit this summer in Brisbane Brisbane, December 26 (Australia India News Newsdesk) Brisbane’s best parks have been revealed for residents seeking free and affordable fun all summer long. Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said Brisbane’s incredible network of 2180 parks played an important role in maintaining the city’s liveability. “Brisbane is renowned for having
the best lifestyle in Australia and our parks are a key part of this,” Cr Schrinner said. “There’s truly something for everyone, from adventure playgrounds like Bradbury Park, Kedron and Warril Parklands, Larapinta to natural green spaces like Hanlon Park, Stones Corner. “We continue to invest in Brisbane’s parks because it’s an investment in making Brisbane’s
suburbs even better places to live. “We know cost-of-living pressures are taking a toll on households across the city, especially during the Christmas and school holiday period. “Families can find hours of free fun at their local park or take a picnic and discover a new one – there’s adventure around every corner.” Cr Schrinner said 64 new parks
had been created in the past five years, including seven completed in 2023. “Brisbane is Australia’s fastest growing city and it’s important we ensure residents have access to great open spaces as we grow,” he said. “When I first became Lord Mayor, I committed to keeping Brisbane clean, green and sustainable for future generations and this
COMMUNITY NEWS included growing our park network. “Some of my favourite childhood memories took place in our local park and I’m sure residents feel the same way. “Parks make our suburbs even better and help residents stay active, healthy and connected to their local community. “Residents looking for other summer activities that are light on the wallet can continue to attend Council pools for just $2 through our Summer Dips program.”
Team Australia gears up for Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024 net-zero linked technologies, advanced manufacturing, and digital health and innovation are encouraged to join the Team Australia delegation to explore synergies and collaborations.
Canberra, December 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk) In a bid to strengthen economic ties between Australia and India, a high-profile Team Australia delegation is set to participate in the esteemed Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, taking place in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, from January 10 to 12, 2024. Renowned as India's largest
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trade show, the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit serves as a dynamic platform for Australian businesses to delve into trade and investment opportunities across west and north India. With Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi officiating the Summit, the event attracts key players from India's corporate landscape, offering a unique avenue for Australian
enterprises to engage with senior Indian leaders and decisionmakers from both the business and political spheres. This year's Summit is themed around Industry 4.0, Technology and Innovation, and Transitioning Towards Sustainability. Australian businesses active in sectors such as education and skills, critical minerals, renewables and
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Much like the Tamil Nadu Global Investor Meet, Australia will hold the distinguished position of being an official partner country for Vibrant Gujarat. This entails the presence of an Australia Pavilion and a dedicated Australian country session, along with specific sectoral sessions. Businesses keen on exhibiting at the Australia Pavilion or securing speaking slots on their sectoral themes are invited to express their interest in advance by using the provided email address for further consideration.
businesses to participate. However, participants are expected to cover their own travel and accommodation costs. This collaborative engagement marks another significant step in fostering economic partnerships between Australia and India, creating avenues for exploration and collaboration in key sectors.
It is noteworthy that there is no entry or registration fee for the event, offering an accessible opportunity for Australian
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COMMUNITY NEWS
David Crisafulli MP visits local businesses as storms lash the region The Christmas Day storms have delivered a swathe of destruction across South East Queensland,
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and tragically have also claimed a life.
David Crisafulli MP talked to the local businesses plying their trade at Paradise Point on the Gold
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Coast. There is no power in the area and, as per reports, there will be no
power till December 30. Homes, cars, schools, businesses and parks have been badly affected.
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Brisbane Multicultural Community and Faith Leader’s Dinner and Forum organized Brisbane, December 16 (Australia India News Newsdesk) The Brisbane Multicultural
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Community and Faith Leader's Dinner and Forum for 2023 was organized recently. The forum shared the achievements
and outlined the goals for the year 2024. The housing and cost of living pressures, mental health and well-being,
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and pathways to education, training, and employment were some important areas emphasized. Multicultural
Australia Queensland Program of Assistance to Survivors of Torture and Trauma organized the forum.
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Brisbane witnesses biggest-ever NYE fireworks display Brisbane, Australia India News Newsdesk Brisbane was all decked up for its biggest-ever New Year’s Eve firework display. Before the grand spectacle, Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner had said spectators could expect to see 80,000 individual fireworks illuminate Brisbane’s skyline. The spectacle that unfolded showed that he was right in his anticipation of the magnitude of the display. “This is one of the best events of the year and it really
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demonstrates why Brisbane is renowned for its fantastic lifestyle. We’re expecting 85,000 people to gather at vantage points across the city to watch the show. We have several new Queenslandfirst fireworks including strobing green waterfalls and fire tree fan cakes. With free 10-minute firework shows at 8.30pm and midnight, we’re making sure no one has to miss out. The team have gone above and beyond with their imaginations to pull this incredible display together. With
20,000 more fireworks than last year, it’s set to be the biggest and best show in Brisbane’s history,” he had said. And the event turned out to be just as magnificent as he had anticipated. Community, Arts and Nighttime Economy Chair Councillor Vicki Howard thanked the highly skilled team from Skylighter Fireworks, who had spent months planning the display. “Local Brisbane business, Skylighter Fireworks does an incredible job each year and we
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know residents love their work. Over the past few days, five tonnes of fireworks have been loaded onto four barges on the Brisbane River. These barges will be positioned between Cultural Forecourt and River Quay creating several vantage points for residents to view the free display,” she had said, prior to the event. To help keep costs down, free travel was available on buses, trains and ferries from 8pm New Year’s Eve until 5.30am New Year’s
Day. For those hoping to avoid traffic, a network of 2180 parks provided a great free option for a family gathering. Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner had earlier said, “We’re committed to keeping costs down for families while ensuring everyone continues to enjoy Brisbane’s renowned lifestyle.” The Lord Mayor also wished everyone a very happy New Year.
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Annadanam, meal for the masses, feeds 3000 on NY day in Brisbane On the New Year Day on January 1, live Darshan was held at Selva Vinayakar Koyil Ganesha temple in Brisbane, with Annadanam (meal for the poor) organised for 3000 people, despite it being a rainy day. For the last 16 years, few friends and families from Northern suburbs of Brisbane, Australia, have been offering Annadanam (Food) to devotees of Sri Selva
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Vinayakar Temple on New Year’s Day, and it has now become a significant event in the temple’s calendar. After the special Puja between 9-10 am, over 3000 meals were cooked in the temple’s premises and served to devotees, who joined the lunch in the temple at 4915-4923, Mt Lindesay Highway, South Maclean, Queensland-4280. Selva Vinayakar temple is built
according to traditional Indian style in conformity with ancient Sitpa Sastra and Agamas. Similar to the Hindu temples in India, Selva Vinayakar temple is also situated in the midst of areas of natural scenic beauty, in proximity to the Logan River at South Maclean, an area of prevailing peace and inspiration to the devotees visiting this temple.
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COMMUNITY NEWS
MCCQ Christmas Dinner organized Brisbane, December 16 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Multicultural Community Connect Queensland (MCCQ) Christmas Dinner was organized
at the Lil Viet De Lites restaurant, recently. It marked a great end of year celebration of all
the achievements of MCCQ so far. Many leaders of various
organisations attended the Christmas Dinner.
Australia to feature as key partner in Tamil Nadu’s Global Investors Meet 2024 for living, working, studying, and visiting. The GIM 2024 will host a dedicated Team Australia Pavilion, providing open exhibition space for collaborative showcasing with other Australian businesses. Additionally, a parallel conference session with 22 different themes will offer delegates the opportunity to secure speaking slots on sectoral themes, subject to Austrade's prior consideration.
Canberra, December 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk) Australia is set to play a pivotal role as the country partner for the eagerly anticipated Tamil Nadu Global Investor Meet (GIM) in 2024. This strategic alliance, orchestrated by the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) in collaboration with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Centre for Australia India Relations, and Australian States & Territories, aims to fortify economic collaboration between the two nations. Marked for January 7-8, 2024,
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at the Chennai Trade Centre in Nandambakkam, GIM 2024 extends an invitation to investors to join the esteemed "Team Australia Pavilion." Here, they can engage with potential joint venture partners, collaborators, and customers, with a specific focus on expanding their footprint in Tamil Nadu. The event provides an exclusive avenue for Australian businesses to tap into the burgeoning opportunities within India's second-largest state economy, poised to reach US$1 trillion by 2030. Tamil Nadu has witnessed a commendable growth rate
of over 8% in recent years, surpassing the national average. The state's strengths lie in advanced manufacturing, a skilled workforce, and notable women's participation. Australia's High Commissioner to India, Philip Green, emphasized the strategic significance of Tamil Nadu during his inaugural visit in October 2023. He underscored that, given the state's robust human capital and industrial profile, Tamil Nadu is an ideal landscape for elevating Australian innovation and fostering meaningful collaborations with Indian businesses. Commissioner
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Green is anticipated to grace the GIM, eagerly anticipating interactions with participating Australian businesses. Participating enterprises from Australia will have the opportunity to network with key officials from both the Australian and Tamil Nadu State Governments, alongside engaging with influential industrialists and potential customers and partners. GIM 2024 serves as a conduit for Australian businesses to contribute to Tamil Nadu's supply chains, offering resources and skills, while also spotlighting Australia's appeal as a destination
Participation in the GIM event unfolds a myriad of benefits, including networking opportunities with Australian peers, forging new connections in India, showcasing Australian capabilities to potential Indian buyers and partners, exploring trade diversification through AI-ECTA, and potential speaking slots at thematic sessions, subject to organizer approval. Practical assistance on the ground and profile support for major announcements, MoUs, agreements, and new product launches will be readily available. This collaboration signifies a step towards nurturing robust economic ties between Australia and Tamil Nadu, creating a platform for mutually beneficial partnerships and investments.
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COMMUNITY NEWS
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ADVERTORIAL
Title: How long do I need to save to raise a home deposit? Have you been saving up to buy a home in Queensland, only to find out property prices have gone up and the savings is insufficient? Exclusive analysis PEXA’s new Buyer Deposits Report reveals the time taken to save for a deposit inQueensland now takes more than 5 years compared to less than 4 years in early 2021 (up 36.9%). This is mainly because house prices are shooting up, interest rates on loans are going higher, and banks are making it harder to get loans. The FY23 median home deposit
amount is now • $119,969 in NSW ($145,000 in Sydney), • $84,723 in Victoria ($94,000 in Melbourne) and • $78,143 in Queensland ($85,163 in Brisbane). PEXA's Head of Research, Mike Gill, pointed out that the struggle to save for a deposit has become much tougher, especially for first-home buyers. He mentioned that younger people trying to buy their first home are facing more difficulties getting into the housing market due to the increased time needed to save up.
The reasons behind the rising house prices in Queensland are things like more people wanting to buy homes, not enough houses available, and changes in the economy caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. While the Queensland government has tried to help first-time buyers by offering grants and discounts, the gap between how much money people need for a deposit and how much
they can save remains a big problem. For many people in Queensland, saving enough money for a house seems harder than ever. The big question where do I even start? I am not a financial advisor or planner, but we at Lyra Homes can guide you to the right people to start the home ownership journey. Remember this is a long term game, and we need a long term mind set as well.
Reach out to Anna Khandharon 0424 164 980 for a chat. By Anna Khandhar Principal & Business Owner About Lyra Homes Creating unity and harmony in the home-buying process The name “Lyra” is connected with thoughts of oneness and harmony. Lyra Homes is a boutique real estate company that values unity, harmony, customer service, and community participation. Lyra Homes is focused on creating lasting relationships with customers and cultivating a welcoming environment to provide customers with a unique experience. Lyra Homes’ approach to real estate is generally focused on giving our clients a great experience and forging a strong sense of community.
The median deposit amount in QLD increased, overtaking VIC in the most recent quarter. QLD recorded a median deposit amount of $88,460 in the Sep-23 Qtr,
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Source: PEXA 1 Median family income used in the calculation. For more information on this dataset visit ABS website
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Our experienced Brisbane real estate agents are here to help you make the right decisions when purchasing or selling your home. Our team of real estate agents can provide you with the necessary insights and advice to ensure that you make the most of your real estate journey
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INDIA NEWS
COMMUNITY NEWS
IABCA unveils ambitious plans for 2024 to boost bilateral ties a decade of dedicated efforts in 2023, IABCA expanded its international footprint with the inaugural IABCA India Showcase, aligning with the G20, fostering an immersive cultural dialogue that garnered acclaim from both governments.
Sydney, December 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk) The India-Australia Business and Community Alliance (IABCA) has been a stalwart in fostering
cultural diplomacy and bilateral growth through sustained engagement with people, organizations, and businesses. In a landmark celebration of
Building on this success, IABCA is set to propel the momentum further in 2024 by unlocking the potential for enhanced bi-lateral trade between India and Australia. A comprehensive 12-month campaign and a series of initiatives, including the launch of the inaugural India Week in Australia from August 12th to 16th, 2024, across Queensland, New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory, and Victoria, are on the agenda. IABCA remains
committed to providing a robust platform for reinforcing businessto-business ties and honoring the strong people-to-people links. The Australia-India relationship stands at an unprecedented high, bolstered by the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) that came into effect in December 2022. India's remarkable economic growth, reaching 6.9 percent in FY2022-23 according to the World Bank, underscores its emergence as one of the world's fastest-growing economies. With a young, educated, and dynamic workforce, over half of India's 1.6 billion inhabitants are under the age of 30. Australia and India, as the sixth-
largest two-way trading partners, witnessed total two-way trade valued at $46.5 billion in 2022. The ECTA marks a significant milestone, providing Australian exporters with expanded market access across various sectors, encompassing goods such as wool, seafood, fruit, and vegetables, as well as services including higher education, business services, and research and development. As IABCA navigates the evolving landscape of international collaboration, its strategic initiatives in 2024 aim to further solidify the bonds between India and Australia, capitalizing on the shared strengths of both nations for mutual prosperity.
AIBC reflects on a year of collaborations and milestones Sydney, December 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk) In a year-end message to its members, Jodi McKay, the National Chair of the Australia India Business Council (AIBC), emphasizes that 2023 has been a remarkable year of partnerships. This sentiment is conveyed in the December edition of the AIBC Newsletter, summarizing the key highlights and achievements.
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Among the noteworthy events covered in the final edition of the year is the Australia India Address in Sydney, where Senator Don Farrell, Minister for Trade and Tourism, served as the keynote speaker. Additionally, the newsletter highlights the launch of AIBC's groundbreaking "First Nations Roadmap 2023-26," a historic initiative as the first-ever roadmap by a bilateral business
chamber. December also marks a poignant farewell to Manpreet Vohra, the Indian High Commissioner to Australia. Reflecting on his tenure down under, Mr. Vohra described himself as "a lucky chap in a lucky country." The newsletter puts a spotlight on AIBC's recent engagements with visiting dignitaries from India, including Raosaheb Patil Danve,
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Minister of State for Mines, Coal, and Railways; Dr. Anju Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary, Government of Gujarat; and Ashish Chauhan, MD & CEO of NSE India. Adding vibrancy to the yearend wrap-up, the newsletter showcases the fabulous Diwali celebrations hosted by AIBC across various cities in Australia. The festivities provided a
backdrop for discussions spanning cricket, classic cars, and a myriad of other significant topics. As the year draws to a close, the AIBC's final newsletter for 2023 serves as a testament to the organization's commitment to fostering partnerships, celebrating achievements, and engaging with key stakeholders to further enhance the AustraliaIndia business relationship.
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ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 smashes Broadcast and Digital records broadcast in India, about five
I always love playing in Australia and it’s been great to start the year in Brisbane for me, says Andy Murray
times more hours of coverage compared to 2011, thanks to the 22 channels that showcased the tournament across nine different languages (English, Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada & Malayalam).
Dubai, Dec 27 (IANS) The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 hosted in India smashed broadcast and digital records across the world, making it the biggest World Cup ever. The event, which saw Australia crowned champions for the sixth time, registered a record 1 trillion global live viewing minutes of broadcast, which included new technological innovations such as the vertical video feed, providing fans with an easier and more intuitive viewing experience on their mobile devices. The global live viewing hours were an increase of 38% from the last edition of the tournament held in the Indian sub-continent, in 2011, and by 17% compared to 2019 when it was held in the United Kingdom. The final between India and Australia at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the biggest cricket stadium in the world, became the most watched ICC match ever. There were 87.6 billion live viewing minutes globally, representing a 46% growth compared with the 2011 final that featured co-hosts India and Sri Lanka. The event was carried by a total of 20 broadcast partners across 209 territories. For the first time, Hindi coverage was made available outside India by ESPN+, Fox Sports, Sky Sports and Willow TV. ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice said: “We are delighted to announce the record-breaking viewership and engagement numbers for the Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, making it the biggest World Cup ever. The incredible numbers continue to show the increased appetite for ICC events across the world and the consumption of innovative and engaging content that fans can enjoy.” The viewership numbers are staggering across territories, most notably in host country India, where it became the most watched Cricket World Cup ever, with 422 billion viewing minutes on the Disney Star Network alone, resulting in a whopping 54% increase from 2011 and a significant 9% rise from 2019. The tournament was the most
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The female viewership share rose from 32% for the 2011 edition of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup to 34% this year, reflecting the universal excitement surrounding the country’s home tournament. The final between the hosts and Australia became the most watched Men’s Cricket World Cup match ever with a peak TV audience of 130 million, with a total of 300 million people watching it on the Disney Star network on linear alone in India. The 2023 edition was also the most broadcast tournament in the United Kingdom and Australia that saw huge jumps in viewership compared to 2011 when it was played in the same time zone. The UK saw 800 hours of live coverage and 5.86 billion minutes (of live viewing compared to 4.74 billion minutes) in 2011, a 24% increase. In Australia, there were 602 hours of live coverage with 3.79 billion minutes of live viewing, 92% more than the 1.98 billion minutes recorded in 2011.
Brisbane, Dec 30 (IANS) Former Brisbane International champions Andy Murray and Karolina Pliskova were on hand for the official tournament draw on Saturday at the Queensland Tennis Centre. Murray, a two-time champion in
SPORTS
Brisbane, and three-time winner Pliskova were joined by rising Australian star, and Gold Coast local, Kimberly Birrell. Murray is thrilled to be back at the Brisbane International, where he scooped the 2012 and 2013 titles.
‘Not worried about them’, says Usain Bolt on which of his world records fall first The fastest man in the whole world set the 100m world record of 9.58 and the 200m world record of 19.19 at the 2009 World Championships in Berlin, Germany. Despite having been retired from athletics since 2017, the Jamaican still holds the title of "the world's fastest man". New Delhi, Dec 28 (IANS) Double (100m and 200m) world record holder and eight-time Olympic champion Usain Bolt remains unfazed about anyone breaking his world records saying "he is not worried about them".
In an interview with World Athletics, Bolt was asked about which of his records will get smashed first. He replied: "Not worried about none of them." Triple world champion Noah Lyles, Africa's fastest man
Ferdinand Omanyala, and former world champion Fred Kerley are among the athletes aiming for world records. However, none of them has achieved this feat so far. Lyles, the current world champion in both the 100m and 200m events, targeted Bolt's 200m 19.19 in 2023 but did not achieve his goal. The American's 19.31 national record remains the third-fastest time ever Nevertheless, the sprint star believes that today's athletes will find it more challenging to chase the 100m record.
Coupled with Australia’s success, this led to significant increase in overall audience with 9.1 million people watching India 2023 compared to the 2019 edition in England and Wales which saw 6.1 million tune in. Pakistan saw record viewership with 237.10 billion viewing minutes of live viewing. The corresponding figures were 230.49 billion minutes in 2019 and 220.63 billion minutes in 2011. The 2023 edition was the most shown World Cup in South Africa and saw a 32% increase in viewership from 2019 with 5.01 billion minutes of live coverage watched. Similar was the case in the United States, where 395 hours of live coverage made it the most broadcast Cricket World Cup, the coverage hours rising 14% from 2019. The final was the most watched match with 48 million live viewing minutes, 47% more than the second most watched (India vs Pakistan). Nine of the 10 most watched games in the US featured India. The decision to make coverage freely available for mobile users via Disney+ Hotstar in India led to a whopping 295 million LIVE Tournament viewers tuning in. Across the event, there were five world records broken on Disney+ Hotstar for digital peak concurrency, with the final attracting cricket’s highest concurrent audience ever, having already made history at four other 2023 World Cup matches.
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SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Over 4.25 lakh tech employees lose jobs AI could help in early in 2023, layoffs continue during holidays diagnosis of autism: Study Tech companies, including startups, around the world have fired more than 425,000 employees in the last two years (till December 26, 2023), with more than 36,000 employees being sacked in India in the same time period.
New Delhi, Dec 26 (IANS) As generative AI threatens millions of jobs, tech companies globally are now sacking employees even in the holiday season (they had spared workers in 2021 and 2022 festive seasons amid the global meltdown and started layoffs only in the first month of the New Year).
Citing the global macroeconomic conditions, Big Tech firms and startups across the spectrum have sacked employees, and layoffs continue to happen. According to the latest data from layoff.fyi, a website that tracks tech sector job cuts, 1,178 tech companies have laid off 260,771 lakh employees this year globally (as of December 26).
On average, about 582 employees lost their jobs every day in the last two years – or more than 24 workers every hour. In terms of sector, retail-tech, consumer-tech and fintech were the ones which laid off the most employees in this year. Paytm has just laid off over 1,000 employees in an effort to reduce costs and realign its businesses. Social media platform ShareChat asked 200 employees, or about 15 per cent of its workforce, to go as part of strategic restructuring.
Zomato denies any offer to acquire logistics platform Shiprocket for $2 bn market".
New Delhi, Dec 21 (IANS) Online food platform Zomato on Thursday said it has not made any offer to acquire homegrown logistics solution provider Shiprocket for nearly $2 billion (more than Rs 16,600 crore). Reacting to a Bloomberg report which claimed, citing sources, that Zomato has made an offer to buy Shiprocket but no final decision has been taken on the deal yet, Zomato vehemently denied making any such offer. The company said it "would like to caution investors against such incorrect news floating in the
"We remain focused on our existing businesses with no plans for any acquisition at this moment. Kindly note that the company does not comment on media speculation but is clarifying this information out of abundant caution, given the large size of the deal mentioned in the news article and the uncertainty that it may create in the market," the company noted. In August last year, Zomatobacked Shiprocket, also backed by Info Edge, Temasek and Lightrock, raised $33.5 million that took its valuation to around $1.2 billion. Zomato, in the same month, completed the acquisition of quick commerce company Blinkit (formerly Grofers) and
its warehousing and ancillary services business. Zomato’s board approved the Rs 4,447 crore transaction to acquire Blinkit. The ancillary business was bought for Rs 61 crore. Meanwhile, Shiprocket is reportedly in talks with top VC firms for a fund-raise upto $75-100 million, led by US-based investment firm Tribe Capital. According to a TechCrunch report last week, citing sources, "the funding talks are ongoing and the terms may change". Both Tribe Capital and Shiprocket did not comment on the report. Bengaluru-headquartered Shiprocket aims to become IPOready in the next 12 to 18 months. It aims to disburse around Rs 100 crore to SMBs in the next 12 months.
Digital payments see huge surge in Ayodhya as city prepares for Ram Temple one of the 100-odd boatmen at the bank of Sarayu river, told IANS.
Ayodhya, Dec 22 (IANS) As the city prepares to welcome thousands of guests for the consecration ceremony of Ram Temple next month, real-time unified payments interface (UPI)based digital payments have made life super easy for local vendors from all walks of lives here. From boatmen on the banks of the Sarayu river to flower/ prasad sellers at Hanuman Garhi, QR-code based payments have witnessed a meteoric rise in recent months. “Digital payments have made my life easy as there is no running around for cash change. The money goes directly into my son’s bank account via UPI, which is such a relief for us,” Annu Manjhi,
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The government has launched the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra to help people understand the benefits of central government schemes at their doorsteps, and the rise in digital payments is a key message for millions. The Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra is to raise awareness about and track the implementation of flagship central schemes, such as Ayushman Bharat, Ujjwala Yojana, PM Surkasha Bima, PM SVANidhi, etc. According to Mohd Rashid Khan, 40, who lives in Sadar Bazar area in Ayodhya Cantt, UPI has instilled in him a new confidence. “Cash handling was a headache as finding chutta (small change) was always a problem while buying daily stuff that needed small currency. Now with digital
and sensory deficits in addition to the social deficits that are the hallmark of the disorder.
In 2022, 1,061 tech companies laid off 164,769 employees.
payments, that headache is gone and money reaches instantly and safely in my bank account,” said Khan, one of the beneficiaries of the government schemes. Addressing a Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra event in Varanasi last week, PM Modi said: “With the Vikas Bharat Sankalp Yatra, I want to gauge if everything that I said has happened in the way I wanted to? Has it happened for those it was intended for?” According to Ranjita Chauhan, 35, a resident of Sadar Bazar in Ayodhya Cantt, PM Modi has launched several good schemes and UPI is one of those. “I can now buy things with just a few steps via my phone and do not carry any cash while going out. Digital payments is one of the best initiatives by the government which is helping people living at the margin earn and spend better,” she said.
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New York, Dec 21 (IANS) Artificial intelligence (AI), coupled with data from an iPad colouring game, could assist in early diagnosis of autism, a new study shows. Researchers from the University of Southern California (USC) said the results indicate the potential for an easy and novel method for early detection of autism and developmental coordination disorder. "This is especially important as motor signatures appear early in autism -- usually before social symptoms. And this methodology does not involve potential biasing by the assessor," said Lisa Aziz-Zadeh, a professor at USC. Previous studies have shown it is possible to use technology to categorise autism from typically developing individuals, but it can be difficult to distinguish autism from other similar developmental disorders. For example, developmental coordination disorder -primarily a motor skills disorder -- has features that overlap with autism. Children with autism spectrum disorder often have both motor
For the study, published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 54 children between the ages of 8 and 17 took part in a fiveminute colouring game on iPads. Eighteen had autism, 16 had developmental coordination disorder, and 20 were developing typically. The iPads collected touchscreen kinematic data -- for example, how hard kids are pressing and the jerkiness or velocity of movements. The researchers used machine learning analytics, a form of artificial intelligence, to process the information. "We were able to correctly distinguish between a typically developing child and one with autism spectrum disorder with 76 per cent accuracy," said Aziz-Zadeh. Researchers also were able to correctly distinguish between typical development and developmental coordination disorder with 78 per cent accuracy, and autism and developmental coordination disorder with 71 per cent accuracy. The study was conducted in high-functioning children and adolescents with autism and needs to be replicated in larger, younger, and more diverse groups, researchers said.
Over 4.25 lakh tech employees lose jobs in last 2 yrs, 24 workers per hour (as of December 26). In 2022, 1,061 tech companies laid off 164,769 employees. On average, about 582 employees lost their jobs every day in the last two years – or more than 24 workers every hour. New Delhi, Dec 26 (IANS) As generative AI threatens millions of jobs, tech companies globally are now sacking employees even in the holiday season (they had spared workers in 2021 and 2022 festive seasons amid the global meltdown and started layoffs only in the first month of the New Year). Tech companies, including startups, around the world have fired more than 425,000 employees in the last two years (till December 26, 2023), with more than 36,000 employees being sacked in India in the same time period. Citing the global macroeconomic conditions, Big Tech firms and startups across the spectrum have sacked employees, and layoffs continue to happen. According to the latest data from layoff.fyi, a website that tracks tech sector job cuts, 1,178 tech companies have laid off 260,771 lakh employees this year globally
In terms of sector, retail-tech, consumer-tech and fintech were the ones which laid off the most employees in this year. Paytm has just laid off over 1,000 employees in an effort to reduce costs and realign its businesses. Social media platform ShareChat asked 200 employees, or about 15 per cent of its workforce, to go as part of strategic restructuring. Game streaming platform Loco has laid off about 36 per cent of its workforce, or 40 employees, from its total staff strength of 110. Google-backed edtech platform Adda247 laid off around 250300 employees across verticals. Edtech major Byju's laid off 4,000–5,000 employees in a “business restructuring exercise”. The startup has eliminated more than 10,000 positions in the past two years. Homegrown quickgrocery delivery provider Dunzo reportedly laid off at least “150200” more employees amid severe cash crunch in September.
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HEALTH
Major breakthrough in BP diagnosis Brain cell discovery sparks hope for fertility treatments could save billions in healthcare
Sydney, Dec 24 (IANS) A team of researchers has discovered a way to predict who will respond to blood pressure treatments to lower sodium in the body. The team from The Hunter Medical Research Institute and University of Newcastle in Australia figured out how to use each person’s individual genetics to inform treatment. Their findings were published in Circulation, a prestigious international cardiology journal. "High blood pressure -- or hypertension related disease -- kills up to 20 per cent of
people. At least 30 per cent of the adult population has it -- that’s one in three Australian adults -- and only 30 per cent of those people get it under control,” said Professor Murray Cairns in a paper published in the journal Circulation. “The way people respond to drugs is different. We can measure an individual’s genetic risk of developing high blood pressure with respect to the physiological systems responsible -- including kidneys, heart or smooth muscle - and then target medications accurately,” Cairns explained. Some hypertension medications work to lower sodium -- and subsequently blood volume -- in the body. Cairns says that while many people have a genetic predisposition to high blood
pressure that is triggered or exacerbated by a high salt modern diet, they will respond well to treatment that reduces sodium. For some people, salt is not a significant factor in their hypertension so they may benefit more from treatments that target other biological aspects of their genetic risk. With 80 per cent of people ending up with some form of chronic disease, and 20 per cent with two or more, genetic insights driving precision medicine could have a massive impact on global health. The team used real world data from the UK biobank in order to measure the interaction between sodium-associated genetic scores, sodium levels and blood pressure. health/medicinehuman interestscience/tech
Sniffing women’s tears lowers aggression in men: Study
London, Dec 24 (IANS) Sniffing women’s tears lowers brain activity related to aggression in men, reducing aggressive behaviour, researchers have discovered. The Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel conducted the study, which discovered that human tears include a chemical signal that decreases activity in two aggression-related brain regions.
In the study, published in the journal PLOS Biology. In the study, researchers, led by PhD student Shani Agron from the institute's Brain Science Lab, set out to determine whether tears have the same aggressionblocking effect in people as they do in rodents. In a series of experiments, men were exposed to either women’s emotional tears or saline, without knowing what they were sniffing or being able to distinguish between the two. Following that, they played a two-player game designed to generate hostile behaviour in one player towards the other, who was portrayed as cheating.
When given the opportunity, the men could get revenge on the perceived cheaters by causing them to lose money, though they themselves gained nothing.
(LH).
This process is important for reproduction, as pituitary hormones stimulate the ovaries to perform their reproductive functions. Tokyo, Dec 23 (IANS) Japanese researchers have demonstrated how a specific type of neuron in the brain affects the release of hormones that control ovarian function, such as follicular development and ovulation in females. These findings, published in Scientific Reports, could help researchers understand and treat reproductive disorders in animals and humans. Kisspeptin neurons in the brain regulate the release of hypothalamic gonadotropinreleasing hormone (GnRH) and pituitary follicle-stimulating hormone/luteinizing hormone
affecting individuals who perform repetitive hand movements, such as office staff who work with keyboards, assembly line workers, and sportspersons. Doctors currently use ultrasound to visualise the median nerve, and assess its size, shape, and any potential abnormalities. New Delhi, Dec 23 (IANS) Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), in collaboration with Aster-CMI Hospital, have developed an AI tool that can identify the median nerve in ultrasound videos and detect carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) -- a common condition that causes numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and forearm.
High BP, cholesterol before age 55 may up risk of heart disease later in life: Study CTS arises when the median of duration of exposure to the risk factors on risk of CHD. The researchers discovered that when high LDL-C and SBP levels could be predicted using genetics, there was an increased risk of coronary heart disease, regardless of age at diagnosis.
San Francisco, Dec 24 (IANS) Having high blood pressure or high cholesterol before age 55 can have a lasting impact on your risk of heart disease in later life -- even if you subsequently lower your levels, a new study has said. In the study published in the journal PLoS ONE, the researchers conducted a threesample Mendelian randomisation analysis using data from the UK Biobank including 136,648 participants for LDL-C (lowdensity lipoprotein cholesterol), 135,431 participants for SBP (systolic blood pressure), and 24,052 cases for CHD (coronary heart disease) to assess the effect
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They also stated that those with elevated SBP and LDL-C levels in their early to midlife years were at a greater risk of coronary heart disease, regardless of their SBP and LDL-C levels later in life. In addition, they mentioned that coronary heart disease is often caused by a person's cumulative exposure to risk factors such as SBD and LDL-C, which can have long-term consequences on a person's risk. "These findings support the importance of lifelong risk factor control in young individuals, whose risk of CHD accumulates throughout life," said the researchers. Moreover, the researchers
proposed that treating young people with increased SBP and/ or LDL-C is critical in order to reduce accumulated exposure over their lives.
There are two main areas of the brain involved in the process -- the arcuate nucleus (ARC), in which kisspeptin neurons maintain the regular rhythmic (pulsatile) secretion of GnRH/LH that maintains normal follicular development and sex steroid production, and the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV), in which kisspeptin neurons trigger a surge of GnRH/LH that leads to ovulation. The researchers focused on the fact that kisspeptin neurons in the ARC produce and respond to dynorphin, an inhibitory substance.
Indian scientists develop AI tool for nerve disorders in hand, forearm
After sniffing women's emotional tears, the men's revenge seeking aggressive behaviour throughout the game decreased by 44 per cent, or roughly in half, the researchers noted. The researchers mentioned that this result seemed equivalent to the effect observed in rodents, but rodents have a structure in their noses called the vomeronasal organ that picks up social chemical signals.
Examples include follicular development and ovulation in all mammals, including humans.
nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, is compressed at the carpal tunnel part of the wrist, resulting in numbness, tingling or pain. It is one of the most common nerverelated disorders, specifically
"But unlike X-rays and MRI scans, it's hard to detect what's going on in ultrasound images and videos," said Karan R Gujarati, first author and former MTech student at the Department of Computational and Data Sciences (CDS), IISc. "At the wrist, the nerve is quite visible, its boundaries are clear, but if you go down to the elbow region, there are many other structures, and the boundaries of the nerve are not clear." Tracking the median nerve is also important for treatments that require doctors to administer local anaesthesia to the forearm or block the median nerve to provide pain relief.
JN.1 driving death rates in China: Report the clock due to a surge in Covid deaths. This comes after China recently saw a pneumonia outbreak, particularly among the children.
Beijing, Dec 25 (IANS) Amid the global rise in fresh Covid-19 cases, China is reportedly experiencing increasing death rates due to infection caused by the JN.1 variant, claimed a media report. In a report, The Epoch Times claimed that the country’s crematoriums are working round
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Locals in Henan province in China reportedly revealed that government-run crematoriums are operating all day, and even during the night. The report claimed that many locals are suffering from fevers and colds, and the local hospitals are all full. Many children have been infected, and more elderly people have died from pneumonia.
city of Henan Province, the people are not allowed to call their illness Covid. "Now, they are not allowed to say that it is related to Covid-19," Zhou was quoted as saying. "They attribute the elderly patients’ infections to their underlying diseases, because the medical system does not allow them to say that there is Covid-19 virus. Patients’ requests to take Covid-19 test are all denied, and when they ask the doctors (if it’s Covid-19), the doctors don’t tell them. Actually, ordinary people all know that it’s still Covid-19."
According to Zhou Xiang (name changed), a resident in Nanyang
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INDIA NEWS
Jan 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 11
A remarkable show of Indian contemporary art AstaGuru’s upcoming ‘Beyond Bold’ auction
Benaras is beyond history: Artist Paresh Maity A part of him is answering questions, and another one is constantly working on the painting. On the banks of the Ganga, a canvas is coming alive with ancient temples, a soothing river, and the many boats navigating newer courses. He is using only black, the absence of colour is stalk, but then that is how artist Paresh Maity thinks of the world's oldest city.
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n its upcoming 'Beyond Bold' Contemporary Art Auction, AstaGuru is set to present a diverse collection of artworks by renowned contemporary artists such as Subodh Gupta, Nalini Malani, Jitish Kallat, Nataraj Sharma, Valay Shende, Suryakant
Lokhande, Ranbir Singh Kaleka, Raqib Shaw, Ravinder Reddy, Surendran Nair, Bose Krishnamachari, N.S. Harsha, Jagannath Panda, T.V. Santhosh, Sudhir Patwardhan, and others. The meticulously curated catalogue features over 100
pieces across various mediums, including paintings, drawings, sculptures, and mixed media art, providing a comprehensive snapshot of current art trends and offering insights into the future of contemporary art. The auction is slated to take place on December 16-17, 2023.
Reimagining the physical Benaras and asserting a newer dimension to a city that can open new chasms inside, the artist tells IANS, "You cannot trap Benaras in history, it is beyond that. It has layers that refuse to end. There will always be hidden aspects that lend magic to this place." In Varanasi during the recently concluded Mahindra Kabira Festival produced by Teamwork Arts, Maity, recipient of the Padma Shri honour, whose long brush strokes are bringing alive the city which is called the womb of civilisation amid an eclectic mix of music and discussions, says that currently, he is a frame of mind that is pushing him to produce large works. "It is all about large paintings, installations, and sculptures. It is tough to pinpoint the 'reason' for doing that but there are times that an artist wants a change," says the artist, who has painted the longest painting in India, which stretches up to more than 850 feet.
Talking about the upcoming auction, Simone Mody, Curatorial Specialist, AstaGuru Auction House says: “We take great pleasure in presenting this extraordinary collection of works by prominent artists who are redefining the narrative of Indian art in the modern era. Rooted in their unique histories and cultural backgrounds, these experiential creations embody a distinctive fusion of personal and universal elements. They reflect the abundant diversity of contemporary Indian art, not only in terms of subject matter but
The auction also presents a range of works by other women contemporary artists, including Nalini Malani, Rekha Rodwittiya, Mithu Sen, Shilpa Gupta, Schandra Singh, Meetali Singh, Nidhi Agarwal, Vasundhara Tewari Broota, Kalpana Shah, Zimbri, Yashika Sugnadh, Jayashree Chakravarty.
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also through a wide spectrum of styles and techniques. Moreover, these artists' unconventional use of materials introduces an innovative aesthetic dimension to the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art in India. These experimental practices have consistently piqued the interest of collectors seeking to diversify their art collections. We eagerly anticipate lively bidding on the day of the auction." Leading the auction highlight is lot no. 58, a vibrant creation by internationally renowned artist Subodh Gupta. Titled ‘Pink,’ the presented lot is
Two important creations by artist Surendran Nair are also among the significant offerings in the auction. Often revolving around distinct protagonists, his vibrant and visually charged canvases are rich with metaphors. Lot no. 1, executed with oil on canvas in 2005 is a part of his Cuckoonebulopolis series. It is
a work from 2008 executed with scores of steel tongs. While at first glance, the installation’s attractive colour and form may resemble a cheerleader’s pompom or party decoration but is actually made of thousands of pincers or chimtas used in one’s kitchen. Staying true to his philosophy of transforming everyday objects into works of art, in this largescale installation he astonishes the viewer by completely altering the preconceived attributes of the base object. It is estimated to be acquired at INR 60,00,000 – 80,00,000.
estimated to sell at INR 20,00,000 – 30,00,000. Lot no. 90 showcases Nair’s unique synthesis of classical and contemporary through a blend of modern imagery with iconography from Indian and Greek art and mythology.
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ARTS & CULTURE
For someone who has worked
extensively in Benaras and making regular trips here since 1984, there was no question of refusing the invitation by the organisers to come as it is always effortless for an artist to get inspired by what this city offers. "There is nothing superficial about this space. Wherever one looks, a certain rootedness astonishes you. Every time I come here, I see art and it sees me. A volley of ideas hit me," says the artist, who has held more than 80 solo exhibitions in 40 years of his career. Known for working with multiple mediums, Maity, who gradually moved from atmospheric scenery to representations of the human form, is known for working with multiple mediums. He says he is not the one to decide which one to work with. "Mediums and subjects haunt me -- what they say is what I do. They invite me to paint. Also, I must experiment to ensure that I do not get stuck in one medium." Stressing that his art has always derived from what he observes socially and that is where his subjects emerge from, Maity is all for collaborations between different art forms.
Kerala Literature Festival announces speakers for the 7th edition
By Sukant Deepak December 29, 2023 (IANSlife) The Kerala Literature Festival (KLF 2024) has announced its line-up of speakers for the seventh edition scheduled to be held from January 11 to 14, 2024 on the beaches of Kozhikode. Notable attendees include Raghuram Rajan (economist), William Dalrymple (historian), Piyush Pandey (advertising professional and the Chief Creative Officer Worldwide and Executive Chairman India of Ogilvy), Palanivel Thiagarajan (Minister for Information Technology & Digital Services in the Tamil Nadu Government), T. H. Vinayakram (Indian percussionist), Resul Pookutty ( film sound designer, sound editor, audio mixer and Academy Award winner), Gurcharan Das (author), Devika Rege (Novelist), Saras Manickam (Malaysian author), Shobha Tharoor Srinivasan (author and translator), Mallika Sarabhai (dancer), Parakala
Prabhakar (political economist and social commentator), Mani Shankar Aiyar (politician), Barkha Dutt (journalist), Prakash Raj (actor and politician), Kanan Gill (stand-up comedian and actor), Bachi Karkaria (journalist and columnist), Preeti Shenoy (author and Blogger), Sundar Sarukkai (philosopher), Alka Pande (academic, author and museum curator), Monika Halan (personal finance writer, speaker, and author), P Sainath columnist and author), Mugdha Sinha ( Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Culture, Government of India), Prahlad Kakkar (advertisement professional), Durjoy Datta (novelist and screenwriter), Perumal Murugan (author and scholar), Shashi Tharoor (politician), Anita Nair (author), Gopi Kalalyil (Chief Evangelist, Brand Promotion at Google Head Quarters), Abraham Verghese (American physician and author), Francesc Miralles (author) and Krish Ashok (author). The list also includes Kailash Sathyarthi (Nobel Peace Laureate), Charu Nivedita (author), TM Krishna (vocalist, activist, and author), Suraj Yengde (columnist and author), and K.K. Shailaja (Member of the Kerala Legislative Assembly).
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INDIA NEWS
Jan 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 11
5 charming destinations for a fun-tastic festive getaway Gifted with diverse terrain, Thailand is brimmed with hidden gems
TRAVEL
Canberra’s summertime extravaganza awaits with adventures, festivals, and more Explore the many cafes, restaurants and bars along the Kingston Foreshore
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his festive season, escape the commonplace winter retreats and welcome fresh adventures.
With a blend of diverse activities and attractions, these destinations will brighten up your
vacation, making it a memorable adventure:
ustralia's summer starts in December and ends in February, which makes it a popular destination if you wish to escape the winter. The capital city, Canberra, is full of outdoor retreats that everyone would enjoy. Whether one is into exploring wildlife in their natural habitats, enjoying arts and culture, hiking scenic trails or exploring cool breweries, you can never fall short of fun things to experience in Canberra. Planning a vacation? Here are the 10 best spots you must add to the list. Explore Lake Burley Griffin
Hungary
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ungary offers a magical holiday experience with its snowy landscapes and festive activities. The country boasts Europe's largest outdoor skating rink, the City Park Ice Rink in Budapest, as well as charming options near Vajdahunyad Castle and Lake Velence. Lake Balaton's frozen beauty is a must-see. Hungary is renowned for its opera and classical theatres, with the Budapest Nutcracker Ballet being a Christmas season highlight. Throughout December, the country sparkles with Christmas lights, especially along Budapest's Andrássy út, adorned with the most spectacular displays and St. Stephen’s Basilica hosts a lively Christmas market with a laser show in its square during this time. This festive charm extends to country towns and villages, each adorned with delightful decorations and opportunities to indulge in fine wine and warm seasonal cuisines. The bobsleigh track in Visegrád, located near Budapest, is open all year round, while the snowy tracks of the Mátra Mountains, the highest point of the country, are favourite sledging spots.
Japan Japan receives some of the highest amounts of snow in the world crafting ideal terrains for skiing and snowboarding. The country has a variety of ski resorts ranging from the largest and most developed ski resort, Niseko in Hokkaido, to Tohoku’s familyfriendly resorts with beginner and intermediate terrain and a few others scattered in Niigata, Nagano and Gunma of central Honshu region. A day trip to see the snow monkeys in Yudanaka Onsenmakes a great rest day after skiing and snowboarding in the Japan Alps also known as the roof of Japan Theski resorts of Hakuba in the Northern Alps at Nagano are popular for hosting the 1998 Winter Olympics and have 10 resorts combined, providing a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. For those looking for a more relaxed snow vacation head to the family-friendly Furano resort, east of Sapporo, where visitors also enjoy snowmobiling, ice fishing and several other activities with children.
St. Moritz Thailand The cold season is the best time to visit Thailand due to the onset of soothing temperature that creates a pleasant atmosphere to explore the country and indulge in a wide array of activities Venture into the enchanting realms of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai in the northern regions, where historical wonders intertwine with the tranquillity of the Thai countryside. As daylight fades, immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of night markets and savour a delectable feast.
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Switzerland’s luxury alpine resort town, St. Moritz is a paradise for snow sports enthusiasts and those seeking a luxurious staycation. In addition to unskippable skiing adventures, bobsleighing, ice hockey, snow polo and horse racing are popular activities to experience here. The bobsleigh track located in the Engadin Valley—the St. MoritzCelerina Olympia bob run is the world's oldest and the only natural ice bob run still in operation. It offers a 75-second thrilling adventure ride as you experience the adrenaline rush of a lifetime, zooming along at speeds up to 130kmph.
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Experience the beauty of Lake Burley Griffin with a range of exciting options. Start your adventure by renting bikes or e-scooters from the convenient Canberra and Region Visitors Centre or jump on a Beam or Neuron e-scooter using a mobile app. For a serene outing, navigate the lake on an electric-powered GoBoat, which can be rented from either the Kingston Foreshore or the lake’s central basin. Alternatively, savour a leisurely meal aboard the MV Southern Cross or embark on a sightseeing cruise with Lake Burley Griffin Cruises. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Lake Burley Griffin has it all. Street Machine Summernats 36 (04–07 Jan 2024) Get ready for the most thrilling horsepower celebration down under! Held at Exhibition Park in Canberra over four action-packed days, Summernats is not just an event – it's an extraordinary homage to the modified car community. Soak up the lively automotive atmosphere with the show 'n' shine, tyre burnouts and favourites like the city cruise and supercruise and live entertainment. Try some of the best lakeside dining spots Explore the many cafes, restaurants and bars along the Kingston Foreshore. Watch the sunset with a side of fish and chips at casual outdoor eatery, Snapper & Co., or both Water's Edge and The Boat House restaurants offer upscale dining and stunning sunset views across Lake Burley Griffin. It's the perfect spot to watch the sunset. Canberrans are lucky to combine their love of good food and good
views together on a regular basis, with more outdoor dining spots for lunch and dinner than you can shake a stick at. After you’ve finished having a picnic alongside Lake Burley Griffin, why not head to an outdoor bar for sunset drinks? Try Margot Bar, The Jetty, or House of Bubbles for a waterside tipple with beautiful sunset views. Visit Australia's first carbonneutral brewery Capital Brewing Co is known for its strong commitment to sustainability and community engagement and its delectable craft beer. Experience their brews with a tasting paddle and savour a mouthwatering Brodburger. Situated in the Dairy Road Precinct, you can further immerse yourself in the area's diverse offerings, including a neighbouring gin distillery, chocolaterie, indoor ski center, and bouldering gym. Seek respite from the heat Head to the Australian National Botanic Gardens' Rainforest Gully and immerse yourself in the captivating world of lush plants from the diverse rainforests of Australia's eastern coast, spanning from Tasmania to Queensland. With over 4,300 plant species meticulously displayed across 35 hectares, the Botanic Gardens stand as the exclusive destination where you can witness the extraordinary richness of Australian native plants all in one place. Sip your way around the Canberra District With over 140 vineyards and more than 40 wineries all within a 35-minute drive of Canberra’s city centre, there’s no denying there’s plenty to see, do and taste in Canberra’s wine region. Explore one of Canberra’s many places to swim that aren’t swimming pools You don't have to venture to the NSW South Coast to relish the beach experience. In fact, you might be pleasantly surprised to find numerous stunning swimming spots right at the city's doorstep. These are ideal for escaping the summer heat and enjoying refreshing moments around Canberra.
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Jan 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 11
BEAUTY
Mastering skincare in your 40s The nourishing powers of Pitfalls and proven remedies glycerin and honey for dry skin Moisturizing glycerin and soothing honey complement each other perfectly, providing the perfect solution to dry skin problems
The Power of the Duo: Glycerin and Honey When combined with honey, glycerin is a powerful combination that can do wonders for dry skin. Moisturizing glycerin and soothing honey complement each other perfectly, providing the perfect solution to dry skin problems.
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hile dry skin is common, especially during winter, it can be effectively managed, resulting in comfort and a pleasant complexion. Some natural remedies can help alleviate these problems and restore moisture to your skin. Two such ingredients are glycerin and honey, which have incredible nourishing power to combat dry skin. Glycerin: The Humectant Hero Glycerin, also known as glycerol, has been used in skincare for centuries due to its incredible moisturizing properties. It is a hygroscopic ingredient, which can absorb and retain moisture from the environment, making it a popular ingredient in many skincare products. One of the main benefits of glycerin is that it acts as a protector for the skin. When used
on dry skin, glycerin works by absorbing small droplets from the surroundings, and the skin feels nourished and smooth. Honey: Nature’s Liquid Gold Honey is a natural sweetener and culinary delight but has amazing skin care properties. Honey contains natural sugars that help retain moisture, preventing dry skin from becoming overhydrated. It is an excellent emollient, softening and soothes the skin. Honey is packed with antioxidants and has antibacterial properties, making it an ideal product for the skin’s health. The antioxidants in honey can protect the skin from environmental damage, which can lead to dry skin. Additionally, its antibacterial properties can help reduce inflammation and soothe skin irritation, a common occurrence during dry seasons.
Ekta Makhijani, a Lifestyle Influencer, said, “My skin used to get chapped and it used to look dull, especially during winters but ever since I have started including glycerin and honey in my skincare routine, my skin has been softer than ever. I would recommend adding these two ingredients to your daily skincare routine.” Glycerin and honey are two natural ingredients that have amazing nutritional value for sensitive skin. Glycerin’s moisturizing properties help lock in pores, while honey’s soothing, hydrating properties help keep skin soft and healthy. By incorporating these two ingredients into your skincare routine, you can harness their full potential to help your skin stay supple and smooth. So, the next time you’re looking for a solution to your chapped skin, reach for glycerin and honey to experience their natural skin-nourishing magic.
Christmas inspired nail gloss options
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his is the season to sleigh your nail game! Whether you're aiming for a bold and glittery look or prefer something more subtle and sophisticated, this Christmas nail art trend has got you covered. It's time to transform your fingertips into festive masterpieces and let your unique style shine.
Classic Red Nails
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ince the ‘Red Nail Theory’ went viral on social media, the colour has been showing up on the timelines of many nail enthusiasts. Rediscovering this timeless allure with the classic red nails trend is a nod to the enduring elegance of a bold and iconic hue.
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ntering your 40s is a significant milestone, and with it comes a shift in your skincare needs. While wisdom and experience are earned over the years, so are fine lines, changes in skin texture, and other signs of ageing. It's a pivotal moment to reassess your skincare routine and adopt a more thoughtful approach to skincare. By steering clear of prevalent pitfalls and addressing skin concerns appropriately, you can effortlessly maintain a healthy complexion.
known as the Profhilo procedure, is a commendable option. Distinguished by its exceptionally high concentration of ultrapure hyaluronic acid, this procedure deeply nourishes the skin's layers, promoting heightened hydration, elasticity, and suppleness across various areas of the body, including the face, neck, décolletage, and hands. As a result, it not only stimulates the production of collagen and elastin but also rejuvenates it effectively.
Neglecting sun protection
Over-exfoliation can exacerbate skin sensitivity and lead to irritation. While exfoliation is important, limit it to 2-3 times a week and choose gentle exfoliants like glycolic acid. Avoid harsh physical scrubs that can be too abrasive for mature skin.
One of the most crucial skincare mistakes in your 40s is neglecting sun protection. Sun exposure can lead to premature ageing, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and even skin cancer. To counteract this, make sure to use a broadspectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, regardless of the weather. Consider using products with added antioxidants for added protection against UV damage. Overlooking retinol and vitamin C Retinol and Vitamin C are powerhouse ingredients for maintaining youthful skin. They help stimulate collagen production, reduce fine lines, and combat pigmentation issues. Incorporate a retinol serum at night and a Vitamin C serum in the morning for a powerful antiageing regimen. Start with lower concentrations and gradually increase as your skin builds tolerance. Ignoring hydration
Glazed Chocolate Nails
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nspired by the glazed nail trend popularized by Hailey Bieber, the Glazed Chocolate Nail Trend introduces the opulent, chocolatey hues of your beloved cocoa delights to your manicure. Picture a velvety blend of deep chocolate browns and glossy, molten finishes that mimic the sheen of a perfectly glazed dessert. This nail trend is a delectable choice for those who crave sophistication with a touch of sweetness. Whether you opt for a classic solid colour, a mesmerizing gradient, or even add some metallic accents for extra flair, glazed chocolate nails exude elegance and warmth. While at a nail bar, opt for a dark brown nail polish like the GLAM Gel Polish in GLP51 A with a white chrome powder finish over top for a mirrored effect.
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Cherry Cola Nails
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aking a cue from the cherry cola lipstick trend that had everyone lining their lips brown followed by a red lipstick in the center for a dark ombre effect, this trend too leans towards the edgy side. The cherry cola nail trend, as the name suggests, is all about capturing the irresistible allure of everyone's favourite soda in a chic way. Imagine the deep, sultry tones of cherry red and cola brown coming together to create a mesmerizing and vampy nail look. These hues embody the warmth of autumn with a touch of sophistication, making it the perfect choice for those who want to add a dash of mystery and boldness to their manicure.
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In the 40s, your skin's natural moisture barrier weakens, leading to dryness and loss of elasticity. Opt for a hydrating moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin to lock in moisture and maintain plump, supple skin. For individuals in search of a substantial and longlasting enhancement, the bioremodeling treatment, commonly
Over-exfoliating
Not tailoring your skincare routine Sticking to the same products and routines from your 20s or 30s can be a typical oversight. Your skin's requirements have changed, and a generic approach may no longer suffice. Reevaluate your skincare products and consider incorporating antiageing ingredients like peptides, antioxidants, and growth factors to support collagen production and skin repair. Consult with a dermatologist or skincare specialist. They can provide personalized advice, identify skin concerns, and recommend appropriate treatments or procedures to address them. Failing to prioritize sleep and nutrition A healthy lifestyle is integral to maintaining youthful skin. Ensure you get adequate sleep and follow a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins. These nutrients play a crucial role in supporting skin health from the inside out. It's never too late to start taking care of your skin, and the benefits will be well worth the effort.
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Jan 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 11
Dazzling outfit ideas for your Christmas Party
FASHION
Manish Malhotra designs ombré sarees and bandhgalas for Air India crew
The collection mirrors a rare, harmonious blend of rich Indian heritage and aesthetics with 21st-century style, elegance, and comfort
As the holiday season approaches, it's time to start planning your show-stopping looks for the upcoming Christmas party.
Whether you're celebrating with family, friends, or colleagues, dressing up in festive attire adds an extra layer of joy to
the festivities. To help you shine bright this Christmas, we've curated five outfit ideas that strike the perfect balance between comfort and style.
Classic Elegance classic elegance
Glamorous Red dark red look Embrace the festive spirit with a glamorous red cord set. Keep accessories minimal to let the dress take center stage, opting for classic stilettos and a sleek clutch. This dazzling outfit is sure to make you the star of the Christmas party.
For a timeless and sophisticated look, opt for a classic red saree of Navyasa by Liva. This luxurious fabric exudes elegance and warmth, making it a perfect choice for the holiday season. To add a modern twist, consider a blouse with subtle embellishments like sequins or lace detailing. Pair it with black or gold accessories, such as a statement clutch and heels, to complete the ensemble.
Desi Glam Look
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ir India, India’s leading global airline, unveils its much anticipated, brand-new collection of uniforms for cabin and cockpit crew, marking the arrival of a new age of inflight couture. Crafted by Indian celebrity couturier, Manish Malhotra, in his Mumbai atelier, the new uniforms feature an array of colours and timeless designs. The collection mirrors a rare, harmonious blend of rich Indian heritage and aesthetics with 21st-century style, elegance, and comfort. The new uniforms will be introduced in a phased manner over the next few months, starting with the entry of service of Air India’s first Airbus A350.
Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, of Air India, said, “Air India's crew uniforms are amongst the world’s most storied in aviation history, and we firmly believe that Manish Malhotra's innovative ensemble will script an exciting new chapter for Air India's future narrative. It perfectly captures the essence of our new identity, service principles, and our pursuit of setting new benchmarks in global aviation.” Malhotra’s take on modern Indian style complements Air India’s recently unveiled new global brand identity as the flag-bearer of a more confident, progressive, and resurgent new India.
desi glam look If you aim to enhance your office attire with a touch of glamour without going overboard, consider opting for a red ethnic kurta set crafted from comfortable fabric. Pair it gracefully with sophisticated accessories that strike a balance between beauty and elegance.
Designer Rohit Bal in critical condition he underwent an emergency angioplasty. Earlier this year a close confidant of the designer disclosed to a leading daily that Bal had been admitted to hospital last November to flush out alcohol from his system. The designers illustrious career spans over three decades. Bal being ahead of his time was one of the first designers to create couture collections and also introduce a range of pret with his Fashion line Balance.
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ce fashion designer Rohit Bal is reportedly in critical condition and on ventilator support for a pre-existing cardiac condition. Bal has been admitted
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to Medanta Hospital in the NCR region. In 2010, when the designer was at the peak of his career, he suffered from a heart attack for which
The St. Stephens College alumnus, who studied fashion at the National Institute of Fashion Technology in Delhi has been honoured with numerous awards and is recognised as one of the leading names in the fashion industry. Bal is recognised among peers for his creativity and has a loyal list of clientele from the Business world.
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The female cabin crew attire features a ready-to-wear ombré saree with intricate patterns reminiscent of Indian heritage architecture (jharokha) and the Vista (new Air India logo icon), paired with a comfortable blouse and blazer. The ready-to-wear sarees can be optionally worn with comfortable pants, which provides greater flexibility to the female cabin crew to choose the style they most identify with and brings a unique East-meets-West
look. The ombré sarees for the senior female cabin crew will be aubergine-to-burgundy, combined with aubergine blazers, exuding a balance of authority and sophistication. Conversely, the junior female cabin crew will wear vibrant red-to-purple ombré sarees combined with red blazers, embodying youthfulness and energy.
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Jan 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 11
INDIA NEWS
LAAPATAA LADIES RELEASE DATE: 1 March 2024 LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles) DIRECTOR: Kiran Rao
MERRY CHRISTMAS RELEASE DATE: 8 December 2023 LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles) PRODUCER: Ramesh Taurani,
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CAST: Atishay Jain Akhil, Shivam Ghawariya, Nitanshi Goel SYNOPSIS: It’s a jolly mess when two young brides get lost from a train. Set in 2001, somewhere in rural India.
Sanjay Routray, Kewal Garg
DUNKI
RELEASE DATE: 22 December 2023 LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles) DIRECTOR: Rajkumar Hirani CAST: Shah Rukh Khan, Taapsee Pannu
MAIN ATAL HOON
DIRECTOR: Sriram Raghavan CAST: Vijay Sethupathi, Katrina Kaif, Radhika Apte
NEW RELEASES
RELEASE DATE: 19 January 2024 LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)
Legend Studios DIRECTOR: Ravi Jadhav CAST: Pankaj Tripathi
PRODUCER: Bhanushali Studios Limited and
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Jan 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 11
New Delhi: A woman poses for a photo during the ‘Viksit Srinagar: Tourists take a ride in Shikara boats at Dal Lake Bharat Sankalp Yatra’ in Bapa Nagar, New Delhi on Monday, on Monday, December 18, 2023. December 18, 2023
North Korean Leader Kim Jong-Un Joins A Photo Session With Members Of The Korean Children’s Union, Who Carried Out A Mission As A Congratulatory Group At The 5th National Conference Of Mothers
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi After The BJP Parliamentary Party Meeting
New Delhi: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge with party leader Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi and other opposition leaders during a protest over the suspension of MPs amid the Winter session of Parliament, in New Delhi, Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023. www.indianews.com.au
Lucknow: A Rescue Operation Is Underway At Sanjay Gandhi PGI Hospital After A Fire Broke Out In The OT Complex
A mountain cabin on Mount Jiri is covered in snow on Dec. 16, 2023, in this photo provided by a local office of the Mount Jiri National Park. Access to the mountain has been banned due to a heavy snow advisory.
New Delhi: Delhi CM And AAP National Convener Arvind Kejriwal Meets West Bengal CM And TMC Leader Mamata Banerjee
New Delhi: Congress MPs Mallikarjun Kharge And Rahul Gandhi With Suspended Opposition MPs During A Protest At Mahatma Gandhi Statue
PHOTO FEATURE
Varanasi: PM Narendra Modi With Beneficiaries At Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra
Varanasi : PM Narendra Modi At Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra
Kolkata: Australia’s Mitchell Starc along with captain Pat Cummins leave the ground after winning the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup second semifinal match against South Africa at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Thursday, November 16, 2023. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) bought Pat Cummins for Rs 20.5 crore, and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) bought Mitchell Starc for Rs 24.75 crore during the second round of the IPL 2024 mini-auction facebook.com/indianewsaustralia
New Delhi: Homeless people sleep near the road on a cold winter night in New Delhi on Tuesday, December 19, 2023.
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Jan 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 11
INDIA NEWS
ENTERTAINMENT
Out of 220, just 4 hit Malayalam films in Ayushmann Khurrana: Success of Hindi films across genres is healthy 2023; estimated loss of Rs 300 crore sign, industry in thriving space of them. “The remunerations are high, then unfavorable policies of the state government as there is a double tax being levied for the film industry which is not there in other states. The rates for shooting being charged by the state government also has been hiked hugely,” Rakesh added.
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hiruvananthapuram, Dec 21 (IANS) If Covid took a heavy toll on Malayalam film industry in 2022, 2023 appears to be worse with just four films released in theatres that turned hit, while another 12 films managed to break even, thanks to the OTT release.
The four films that turned out to be a hit in the theatres are '2018', 'Kannur Squad', 'RDX' and 'Romancham'.
As 2023 comes to a close, there will be around 220 Malayalam films released and with just 16 films bringing in the money for the producers, the Producers Association has estimated the total loss will be around Rs 300 crores.
“Just four Malayalam films turned hit when running in the theatres, while 12 others managed to break even, thanks to OTT release,” said Rakesh.
B. Rakesh, Secretary of the Association said things doesn’t augur well for Malayalam film industry according to the collections.
Rakesh points out several reasons for the poor performance, the high cost of production being one
He further pointed out that 90 per cent of those who ventured into films this time are new people. “We know of films that have not even collected a single rupee. This time there have been more films and the cost of production ranges from as low as Rs 10 lakh to as high as Rs 10 crore,” he said. The biggest grosser this year turned out to be '2018', a film made on the premise of the worst ever floods seen in the state in 2018. Superstar Mammootty also had an excellent run which saw his film ‘Kannur Squad’ bringing in huge revenues also did ‘Kaathal’, while ‘Nanpakal Nerathu Mayyakam’ won him rare reviews.
Pankaj Tripathi: I can write a B book on Atal Bihari Vajpayee said, "We have tried to showcase those moments of his life in the film which are not known to the public and which are not available on any public platform. I have read so much about him that I can write a book on him and it will be bigger than this film. I have seen all his interviews, read so much about him that I have understood his persona."
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ankaj Tripathi, who's all set to be seen playing the role of Atal Bihari Vajpayee in the biopic 'Main Atal Hoon', says that he has read so much about the former prime minister that he can now
write a book on him. He was speaking to the media in Mumbai at the trailer launch of the film, which is scheduled for release on January 19, 2024. Talking about his role, Tripathi
On the use of prosthetics to get his look right, Tripathi said, "It used to take two hours daily. We shot this film in May and June when it was scorching hot. And it was really difficult to shoot after donning that look. I have literally shed my blood and sweat for this film." Directed by Ravi Jadhav, 'Main Atal Hoon' captures the multifaceted personality of the country's 10th prime minister, who was widely hailed as a poet, a gentleman and a statesman.
ollywood star Ayushmann Khurrana, who is known for films like ‘Vicky Donor’, ‘Bareilly Ki Barfi’ and ‘Shubh Mangal Saavdhan’, feels that the success of Hindi films across genres is a healthy sign of the industry being in a thriving space.
having no takers, our industry has cracked the content game in 2023 to possibly register its biggest theatrical year. We have seen incredible support and response from the audience for our cinema which is why we have already had 3 all time blockbusters in 2023.”
The year 2023 has been good for theatrical films as the year saw cash registering ringing with films like ‘Pathaan’, ‘Gadar 2’, ‘Jawan’, ‘Animal’, ‘Fukrey 3’, ‘Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar’, ‘OMG 2’ and ‘Dream Girl 2’.
He further mentioned: “I feel extremely happy that Hindi cinema has dented the negative narrative and due credit to all the writers, directors and producers for putting their head down and working very hard to prove that Hindi cinema will always find love provided we make the best cinema for audiences to enjoy, experience and engage with. I’m delighted to have contributed in my own way towards the theatrical business with ‘Dream Girl 2’.”
The actor said: “I’m really happy that we have tasted success across many genres this year. It is a healthy sign that our industry is thriving and is so aspirational. It feels amazing to have the support of the audience for our work because we truly pour our hearts and souls into the cinema that we create.” Thrilled with the response to ‘Dream Girl 2’, he said: “It has been an incredible year for Hindi cinema. From a narrative that Hindi cinema is boycotted, to it
He added: “As an actor, who loves watching films in cinemas for the experience that it provides, I couldn’t be happier to have delivered a theatrical experience for the audience with a hit franchise.
Taraji P. Henson is ‘tired’ of being underpaid in Hollywood A
ctress Taraji P. Henson got emotional while talking about being underpaid in Hollywood. When discussing the same during a SiriusXM interview with Gayle King, the 'Empire' alum broke down in tears and said she's "tired" of getting unfair payment in the industry. "I'm just tired of working so hard, being gracious at what I do (and) getting paid a fraction of the cost," the 53-year-old said, reports aceshowbiz.com.
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She added: "I'm tired of hearing my sisters say the same thing over and over. You get tired. I hear people go, 'You work a lot.' Well, I have to.” "The math ain't math-ing. When you start working a lot, you have a team. Big bills come with what we do," she said. "We don't do this alone. It's a whole team behind us. They have to get paid." Henson, who stopped by the interview to promote her new movie 'The Color Purple', went
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on to elaborate: "When you hear someone go, 'Such and such made $10 million,' that didn't make it to their account." She continued: "Off the top, Uncle Sam is getting 50 per cent. Now have $5 million. Your team is getting 30 per cent of what you gross, not after what Uncle Sam took. Now do the math.""I'm only human. Every time I do something and break another glass ceiling, when it's time to renegotiate I'm at the bottom again like I never did what I just did, and I'm tired," she said. "I'm tired. It wears on you. What
does that mean? What is that telling me? If I can't fight for them coming up behind me then what the f**k am I doing?" Henson claimed she's been told that there's not a lot of money on the table because Black actors and stories "don't translate overseas," among other excuses."I'm tired hearing of that my entire career," she argued."Twenty-plus years in the game and I hear the same thing and I see what you do for another production but when it's time to go to bat for us they don't have enough money."
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Jan 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 11
Ajay Devgn reflects on ‘Phool aur Kante’, ‘Lamhe’ opening on same day ‘Chandni’ and there was a lot of hype on the fact that it was a film coming and then there was a new actor coming in a film called ‘Phool aur Kante’. The music had done exceptionally well, today, we are generally more aware about box office, but at that time what was your feeling coming with a juggernaut film?”
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ollywood star Ajay Devgn, who appeared in the latest episode of the ‘Koffee With Karan’ along with director Rohit Shetty, opened up on the clash between his film ‘Phool aur Kante’ and ‘Lamhe’ starring Anil Kapoor and Sridevi. ‘Lamhe’ is one of the iconic films of Hindi cinema and is often considered to be ahead of its times. The stakes were high because 'Lamhe' was Yash Chopra’s next film after ‘Chandni’. The film, however, didn’t do well as it featured an intergenerational love story. Yash
Chopra once told Karan Johar that the audience was with the film for 16,000 feet of its reel. But it could not digest the last 500 feet because of the love story. The audience after getting repulsed by the love story drifted towards ‘Phool aur Kante’ which has more masala and a new star on the block. Talking about the same, Karan Johar said: “Ajay, I’ve always wanted to ask you, as a film fan, I remember your film ‘Phool aur Kaante’ was releasing with the very celebrated film ‘Lamhe’, It was Yash Chora’s film after
ENTERTAINMENT
Rashmika Mandanna pens birthday note for ‘Animal’ director Sandeep Reddy Vanga
Responding to the same, Ajay said: “When you are young, you don't think about all these things and as a newcomer I had no choice in deciding the date of the film, and my attitude at that point of time also when I started work: You know, you are carefree at that age, you are like hua toh hua, nahi hua toh kuch aur karenge kind of an attitude.” He further mentioned: “I remember, Anil ji met me and he said, very sweetly and honestly, what are you’ll doing yaar, tell your producer not to come, ‘Lamhe’ is such a big film, obviously such a big starcast, Yash ji. I said it's not in my hands. He was very sweet. But you never know what happens, what works, what does not work.” Karan Johar said: “That's the irony of so many things in the industry.” ‘Koffee With Karan’ season 8 streams on Disney+ Hotstar.
‘Lifetime of love & togetherness’: Arbaaz Khan ties knot with Sshura
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an-India actress Rashmika Mandanna wished a 'happiest birthday' to the ‘Animal’ director Sandeep Reddy Vanga as he turned 42. Filmmaker Sandeep, who hails from Warangal, had made his screenwriting and directing debut with the 2017 Telugu film ‘Arjun Reddy’, starring Vijay Deverakonda.
picture of the director. The ‘Mission Majnu’ actress is also seen making her signature heart sign with her hands. She wrote: “HAPPIEST BIRTHDAY VANGA SIRRERRR... @SANDEEPREDDY.VANGA”, followed by a smiley.
He is currently riding high on the success of his action drama flick ‘Animal’, which stars Ranbir Kapoor, Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol, Rashmika, and Tripti Dimri in the lead.
‘Animal’ features Ranbir in a dual role as Ranvijay Singh and Aziz Haque. Senior star Anil Kapoor also plays dual characters of Balbir Singh and Kailash Petkar. Bobby portrays the role of Abrar Haque, while Rashmika plays Geetanjali Iyengar, who is the wife of Ranbir’s character.
Now, on the occasion of his birthday, the lead actress of ‘Animal’ -Rashmika has penned a sweet note and shared a smiling
Meanwhile, on the work front, Rashmika next has ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule’, ‘Rainbow’ and ‘The Girlfriend’.
Ankita couldn’t handle Sushant Taking to the social media, Arbaaz Singh Rajput’s intimate scene in has shared the wedding pictures, ‘Shuddh Desi Romance’, ‘PK’ which shows him wearing a beige Rasha, and model Lulia Vantur, amongst others.
coloured floral bandhgala coat, and matching pants.
Abhishek Kumar and Ayesha Khan in the house, Ankita spoke about the kiss scene with Anushka in the film: “(When I watched PK), mujhe chakkar aa gaye the.”
While, his bride Sshura is wearing a pastel pink coloured lehenga. She has kept her hair open and sported a matching neckpiece.
She also shared that she was upset and broke down when she saw him having multiple intimate scenes in Shuddh Desi Romance.
He captioned the post as: “In the presence of our loved ones, me and mine begin a lifetime of love and togetherness from this day on! Need all your blessings and good wishes on our special day!” The celebrities have showered love and blessings to the newlywed couple in the comment section. A video that went viral on the social media shows Arbaaz’s son Arhaan singing a song for his dad, while the ‘Hello Brother’ actor was seen recording his son.
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ollywood actor Arbaaz Khan has tied the knot for the second time with makeup artist Sshura Khan, and has dropped first pictures as husband and wife. According to the reports, Arbaaz and Sshura had met on the sets of the upcoming movie ‘Patna Shukla’.
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The intimate wedding ceremony which was held at Arbaaz’s sister Arpita Khan’s residence saw the presence of his family members, including Salman Khan, Sohail Khan and his kids, Arbaaz’s son Arhaan, his parents Salim and Salma Khan, Helen, actress Raveena Tandon and her daughter
Previously, Arbaaz was married to model Malaika Arora, and they have a son Arhaan. The couple got divorced in May 2017. The other celebrities who have attended the wedding included filmmaker and choreographer Farah Khan, Riteish Deshmukh and wife Genelia, Sajid Khan, Sanjay Kapoor and his wife.
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ctress Ankita Lokhande in the latest episode of “Bigg Boss 17” was seen talking about how she could not handle her former boyfriend and late star Sushant Singh Rajput’s intimate scenes in films such as ‘Shuddh Desi Romance’ and ‘PK’. Ankita said that she was dating Sushant when he featured in Bollywood films like 'Shuddh Desi Romance' and 'PK', where the late actor got intimate with Parineeti Chopra and Vaani Kapoor and also had a kiss with Anushka Sharma in the latter. While talking to co-contestants
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"We went to watch the film. He booked the entire theatre hall in Yash Raj Studios. There was nobody except me and Sushant. Because he couldn’t watch it with anyone because he knew I would lose it.” She mentioned that she scratched his hand and added: “He ran away and didn’t come. I watched the full film and after watching all the scenes I cried so much after reaching home. Even Sushant cried. He said, ‘I am sorry bubu. Abb nahi karunga.” When Abhishek asked Ankita till which film they were together as a couple, she said ‘M S Dhoni'- The Untold Story’. Ankita is now married to Vicky Jain. She shared that her husband cannot watch intimate scenes on the screen.
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INDIA NEWS
Jan 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 11
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