News Arena Network

Ayesha Banerjee

BJP national chief and Union minister JP Nadda arrives in J&amp;K tomorrow, July 6.
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In his first visit to Jammu and Kashmir after the BJP&rsquo;s third consecutive victory, Nadda&nbsp;&nbsp;is expected to review the party&rsquo;s operations.
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This visit is important as it will involve discussions with senior leadership regarding the party's strategy for the upcoming assembly elections in J&amp;K.
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"Nadda is arriving in Jammu to assess the party&rsquo;s functioning and discuss strategies for the upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir," said J&amp;K BJP chief Ravinder Raina.
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The Supreme Court had previously directed the Election Commission of India to hold assembly elections in J&amp;K by September 30 this year. The last assembly elections in the region were held in 2014.
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Upon his arrival, Nadda will address the BJP&rsquo;s executive meeting starting on July 5, which will be attended by over 2,000 senior party leaders and officials.
The agenda includes reviewing operations, discussing election strategies, and planning future actions related to the elections.
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Additionally, accompanying Nadda will be J&amp;K election in-charge G. Kishan Reddy, who is expected to announce election-related programmes. "We anticipate the ECI will announce the elections soon," Raina added.
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The BJP aims to form an independent government in Jammu and Kashmir without alliance partners. However, the unique demographics of the UT may hinder these ambitions.
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Kashmiri voters are likely to support any party other than the BJP, but the party's stronghold in the Jammu region increases their chances of forming a coalition government with one of the major parties in J&amp;K.
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Meanwhile, key participants in tomorrow&rsquo;s meeting include J&amp;K BJP in-charge Tarun Chugh, Co-in-charge Ashish Sood, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, MP Jugal Kishore, and several senior BJP and RSS leaders.
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Jammu

Post

JP Nadda in Jammu on July 6 to review poll planning

Shweta Sengar

The 17-year-old minor reportedly involved in the fatal Porsche car crash in Pune, which resulted in the death of two techies, has fulfilled the bail conditions of the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) by submitting a 300-word essay on road safety, as stated by an official on Friday.
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According to the official, the teenager handed in the essay to the JJB on Wednesday.
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Last month, the juvenile was released from an observation home after the Bombay High Court deemed the orders sending him to the facility unlawful.
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Following the tragic accident in Kalyani Nagar on May 19, the JJB had instructed that he be placed under the care and supervision of his parents and grandfather. Additionally, the minor was tasked with writing a 300-word essay on road safety.
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As per the authorities, a juvenile was operating a Porsche vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and collided with a two-wheeler, resulting in the deaths of two software engineers.
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Following a nationwide outcry over the quick and lenient bail granted to the juvenile, the police took the matter to the JJB to request a modification of the bail terms. On May 22, the board ruled that the juvenile should be placed in an observation home.
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The High Court facilitated his release, declaring the previous orders to be unlawful and emphasizing the full implementation of laws pertaining to juveniles.

Pune

Teen in Porsche crash submits 300-word road safety essay

Ansh Mavani

The Labour Party has secured a landslide victory in the UK general election, ending 14 years of Conservative rule. In his victory speech, Labour leader and incoming Prime Minister Keir Starmer exclaimed, &ldquo;We did it! Change begins now.&rdquo; This marks a significant shift in the UK political landscape, as the Labour Party takes the helm from the Conservatives.
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Outgoing Conservative Prime Minister Rishi Sunak conceded defeat, acknowledging it had been a &ldquo;difficult night&rdquo; for his party. The election saw a notable surge in support for the Liberal Democrats, while the populist right-wing Reform UK party, led by Nigel Farage, gained traction among disgruntled Conservative voters, winning several parliamentary seats.
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However, the Scottish National Party faced a disappointing outcome, with party leader John Swinney describing it as a &ldquo;very poor result&rdquo; as they lost numerous seats.
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Key issues driving voters' decisions included the cost of living, the health service, and housing. Following his concession, Sunak is expected to formally tender his resignation to King Charles in the coming hours. Subsequently, Starmer will meet with the monarch, who will request that he form a new government.
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Traditionally, the incoming prime minister then heads to Downing Street to address the British public. Over the next few days, Starmer will begin appointing government ministers, starting with senior positions and then moving to junior roles.
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Despite Labour's victory, it is clear that the country is not as enamoured with Keir Starmer or the Labour Party as it was with Tony Blair in 1997. This election is as much a reflection of the Conservative Party's losses as it is of Labour's win.
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The expected lower voter turnout compared to recent elections indicates widespread anger and apathy toward the main parties, particularly the Conservatives and, to a lesser extent, Labour.
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The surge in support for smaller parties highlights this sentiment. The Liberal Democrats performed particularly well, and Reform UK also made significant gains. Although Reform UK may not secure as many seats as the Liberal Democrats, they could become the third most popular party by vote share.
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The UK&rsquo;s electoral system often does not translate vote share directly into parliamentary seats, which might disadvantage Reform UK. However, in terms of influence on discussions and the agendas in the media and Parliament, Nigel Farage and his populist, anti-immigrant, anti-European party are poised to set many of the talking points and the agenda moving forward.
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As the new government forms and begins its work, the political dynamics in the UK are set for significant changes, with Labour leading the way and smaller parties continuing to influence the broader conversation.

London

Starmer's Labour ends 14 years of Tory rule

Alia Bhatt and Sharvari have been cast as super-agents in the upcoming Spy Universe film "Alpha" by Yash Raj Films, as announced by the makers on Friday.
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The film, titled "Alpha," will be the first female-led YRF Spy Universe movie and will be directed by Shiv Rawail, who previously directed YRF's Netflix series "The Railway Men."&nbsp;
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It&rsquo;s the time of the ALPHA.. Girls! 💥💥💥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sharvari?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sharvari</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/shivrawail?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@shivrawail</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/yrf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@yrf</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YRFSpyUniverse?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YRFSpyUniverse</a> <a href="https://t.co/3EbeeU0GXA">pic.twitter.com/3EbeeU0GXA</a>
&mdash; Alia Bhatt (@aliaa08) <a href="https://twitter.com/aliaa08/status/1809100579706200428?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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In "Alpha," the actresses will enter the spyverse, which already includes successful titles such as "Pathaan" and the "Tiger" and "War" franchises.
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Reports have suggested that Alia and Sharvari would be the leads in the female-led spy movie, which was produced by YRF's Aditya Chopra.
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In the title reveal video, Alia can be heard saying, "Greek alphabet ka sabse pehla akshar. Aur humare programme ka motto.. sabse pehle, sabse tezz, sabs veer. Dhyaan se dekho toh har sheher mein ek jungle hai. Aur jungle mein hamesha Raj karega.. ALPHA!" The YRF Spy Universe was launched back in 2012 with Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif's "Ek Tha Tiger". Its success spawned two sequels "Tiger Zinda Hai" (2017) and "Tiger 3" (2023).
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In 2019, "War" featuring Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff was released, and this was followed by "Pathaan" in 2023, which starred Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone.
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Upcoming projects from the banner include "Alpha," a sequel to "War" with Hrithik and NTR Jr., "Pathaan," a sequel with Shah Rukh, and Tiger vs. Pathaan, featuring Salman and Shah Rukh.

New Delhi

Alia Bhatt, Sharvari as super-agents in YRF's 'Alpha'

Shyna Gupta

The ninth Governing Council meeting of Niti Aayog, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and comprising state chief ministers, is expected to convene in August to deliberate on the &lsquo;Viksit Bharat @2047&rsquo; vision document.
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This initiative aims to transform India into a developed nation by 2047, marking the 100th anniversary of its independence.
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Sources reveal that ahead of the Council meeting, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will provide an initial overview of the &lsquo;Viksit Bharat&rsquo; vision and action plan in the upcoming Budget later this month.
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The ambitious goal includes positioning India as a $30 trillion economy by 2047, driven by significant policy reforms and governance changes by 2030.
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The vision document, which has been in the making for about 30 months since its conception by Prime Minister Modi in December 2021, outlines India's expected advancements in various socio-economic indicators by 2047.
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It highlights the sectors and technologies where India should aim to lead globally, the areas where the country would nurture global champions, and the institutional capabilities required to achieve these goals.
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Central to India's growth strategy is the interdependence between national and state progress, emphasizing an inclusive and sustainable development path for the next quarter-century.
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The vision document was crafted through extensive consultations with ten sectoral groups of secretaries (SGoSs), each focusing on key areas: rural and agriculture, infrastructure, resources, social vision, welfare, finance and economy, commerce and industry, technology, governance, and security and foreign affairs. Niti Aayog integrated these sectoral visions into a unified document, with inputs from industry leaders and thought leaders.
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The Finance Ministry has projected a template for economic development over the next 25 years, anticipating a population of around 1.5 billion and a per capita income ranging between $18,000 to $20,000 by 2047.
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In FY24, India's economy was approximately $3.7 trillion, with a per capita income estimated at around $2,500 in FY23. Nations with a per capita income exceeding $17,000 are generally classified as developed countries.

PM Modi to chair Niti Aayog meet on India 2047 vision

Approximately 50 foreign terrorists are believed to be operating in the Jammu region, with half of them in the border districts of Rajouri and Poonch.
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Police officials working to counter the revived militancy in Jammu, attributed to Pakistan over the last two years, informed reporters that around 25 terrorists are active in the Dudu-Basantgarh belt, covering the mountainous regions of Udhampur, Doda, Kishtwar, and surrounding areas. An equal number of people are reportedly operating in Rajouri and Poonch.
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&ldquo;Almost all of them are believed to be foreign terrorists, mostly Pakistanis,&rdquo; officials said. The estimate of 50 terrorists is on the higher side. The said terrorist groups work closely with each other in 4&ndash;5 groups.
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Police officials pointed out the challenges posed by the porous international border, which includes riverine areas.
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They are working diligently to secure infiltration routes and prevent new intrusions while aiming to eliminate terrorists hiding in the forests. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s a matter of time. We will get them,&rdquo; they assured.
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Officials revealed a new tactic used by terrorists: bodycams to record interactions with OGWs when receiving supplies.
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These videos are sent across the border using secure communication channels and shown to OGWs as a form of coercion.
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&ldquo;The terrorists use this strategy to pressure OGWs into continued cooperation by threatening to expose them,&rdquo; officials explained.
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Foreign terrorists are well-equipped with bodycams and secure communication systems, allowing them to coordinate with each other and their handlers in Pakistan and send videos of their activities.
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Last month alone, four terror incidents occurred in the Jammu region between June 9 and 13. In Teryath, Reasi district, an attack resulted in the deaths of nine civilians, including seven Shiv Khori pilgrims, and injured 43 others.
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In Doda, seven security personnel were injured. In an encounter in Hiranagar, two Pakistani terrorists and a CRPF Jawan were killed, and a civilian was injured. Later, the police and Army eliminated three Pakistani terrorists in Doda.

Terrorists using new tactics to blackmail OGWs in J&K

A new study sheds light on the critical role of patient education in managing cardiovascular diseases. Researchers examined the information needs of over 1,600 heart patients from diverse regions, revealing significant insights into the challenges faced by individuals dealing with heart-related issues.
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Cardiovascular diseases continue to impact millions of people worldwide. Patients who have lived through a cardiac event (such as a heart attack) often find themselves navigating a complex maze of symptoms, medications and lifestyle adjustments. Understanding the pivotal role of patient education in this journey, our international team of researchers sought to identify the specific information needs of heart patients globally.
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Our study used a validated scale, the Information Needs in Cardiac Rehabilitation (INCR-S), to assess cardiac/heart patients&rsquo; top information needs. Administered across various countries spanning all six World Health Organization regions and encompassing different income classes, the scale provided a comprehensive view of patients&rsquo; information requirements.
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Diverse needs of heart patients&nbsp;
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Our findings showed that patients have a strong desire for information on a wide range of health topics. They want to understand cardiac events, adopt heart-healthy diets, manage medications, recognize symptoms, control risk factors and engage in cardiac rehabilitation programs. This highlights the need for comprehensive patient education to meet the diverse needs of heart patients.
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Studies consistently show that education in cardiac rehabilitation is associated with significant benefits. These include patients&rsquo; better understanding of their condition, improved medication adherence, management of risk factors and reduced rates of hospital readmission and mortality.
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By addressing these informational needs comprehensively, patients can make more informed decisions about their health and improve their overall well-being.
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Our study also illuminated significant variations across regions and income levels in information needs and knowledge sufficiency (whether or not they perceive they already know enough about each topic).
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While patients in higher-income countries tended to report greater knowledge sufficiency, those in lower-middle-income countries articulated a pressing need for more information, particularly concerning medication management, symptom response and exercise benefits. These disparities underscore the importance of tailoring educational interventions to diverse populations&rsquo; specific contexts and needs.
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The role of cardiac rehabilitation programmes&nbsp;
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Crucially, the study underscored the vital role of cardiac rehabilitation programmes in addressing patients&rsquo; information needs. These programs provide structured education and support, empowering patients to effectively understand and manage their conditions, leading to improved health outcomes such as enhanced disease knowledge, adoption of heart-healthy behaviours, increased functional capacity and better quality of life.
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However, our research also identified challenges in delivering comprehensive education through these programs, highlighting the ongoing necessity to improve patient education. The availability of evidence-based resources, such as those provided by the Cardiac College, freely available and in multiple languages, plays a crucial role in bridging the gap in patient education.
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These resources ensure that patients have access to accurate information and support in their preferred language, further empowering them to take control of their health and well-being.
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As healthcare providers grapple with the challenges posed by cardiovascular diseases, this study&rsquo;s findings offer valuable insights for informing educational strategies and interventions. Prioritizing patient education and addressing the diverse information needs of heart patients can significantly improve outcomes and enhance the quality of care for individuals living with cardiovascular diseases.&nbsp;
 This article first appeared in The Conversation. 
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Toronto

How can heart patients manage their health better?

When we see an older family member handling a bulky box of medications sorted by day of the week, we might stop and wonder, is it too much? How do all those pills interact?&nbsp;
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The fact is, as we get older we are more likely to develop different chronic illnesses that require us to take several different medications. This is known as polypharmacy. The concept applies to people taking five or more medications, but there are all sorts of definitions with different thresholds (for example, four, 10 or 15 medicines).
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I&rsquo;m a pharmacist and pharmacoepidemiologist interested in polypharmacy and its impact on the population. The research I carry out with my team at the Faculty of Pharmacy at Universit&eacute; Laval focuses on the appropriate use of medication by older family members. We have published this study on the perceptions of older adults, family carers and clinicians on the use of medication among persons over 65.
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Polypharmacy among older adults&nbsp;
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Polypharmacy is very common among older adults. In 2021, a quarter of persons over 65 in Canada were prescribed more than ten different classes of medication. In Qu&eacute;bec, persons over 65 used an average of 8.7 different drugs in 2016, the latest year available for statistics.
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Is it a good idea to take so many drugs? 
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According to our study, the vast majority of seniors and family caregivers would be willing to stop taking one or more medications if the doctor said it was possible, even though most are satisfied with their treatments, have confidence in their doctors and feel that their doctors are taking care of them to the best of their ability.
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In the majority of cases, medicine prescribers are helping the person they are treating. Medications have a positive impact on health and are essential in many cases. But while the treatment of individual illnesses is often adequate, the whole package can sometimes become problematic.
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The risks of polypharmacy: 5 points to consider When we evaluate cases of polypharmacy, we find that the quality of treatment is often compromised when many medications are being taken.
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1. Drug interactions: polypharmacy increases the risk of drugs interacting, which can lead to undesirable effects or reduce the effectiveness of treatments.
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2. A drug that has a positive effect on one illness may have a negative effect on another: what should you do if someone has both illnesses? 3. The greater the number of drugs taken, the greater the risk of undesirable effects: for adults over 65, for example, there is an increased risk of confusion or falls, which have significant consequences.
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4. The more medications a person takes, the more likely they are to take a potentially inappropriate medication. For seniors, these drugs generally carry more risks than benefits. For example, benzodiazepines, medicine for anxiety or sleep, are the most frequently used class of medications. We want to reduce their use as much as possible to avoid negative impacts such as confusion and increased risk of falls and car accidents, not to mention the risk of dependence and death.
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5. Finally, polypharmacy is associated with various adverse health effects, such as an increase in frailty, hospital admissions and emergency room visits. However, studies conducted to date have not always succeeded in isolating the effects specific to polypharmacy. As polypharmacy is more common among people with multiple illnesses, these illnesses may also contribute to the observed risks.
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Polypharmacy is also a combination of medicines. There are almost as many as there are people. The risks of these different combinations can vary. For example, the risks associated with a combination of five potentially inappropriate drugs would certainly be different from those associated with blood pressure medication and vitamin supplements.
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Polypharmacy is therefore complex. Our studies attempt to use artificial intelligence to manage this complexity and identify combinations associated with negative impacts. There is still a lot to learn about polypharmacy and its impact on health.
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3 tips to avoid the risks associated with polypharmacy&nbsp;
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What can we do as a patient, or as a caregiver? Ask questions: when you or someone close to you is prescribed a new treatment, be curious. What are the benefits of the medication? What are the possible side effects? Does this fit in with my treatment goals and values? How long should this treatment last? Are there any circumstances in which discontinuing it should be considered ?
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Keep your medicines up to date: make sure they are all still useful. Are there still any benefits to taking them? Are there any side effects? Are there any drug interactions? Would another treatment be better? Should the dose be reduced? Think about de-prescribing: this is an increasingly common clinical practice that involves stopping or reducing the dose of an inappropriate drug after consulting a health-care professional.&nbsp;
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It is a shared decision-making process that involves the patient, their family and health-care professionals. The Canadian Medication Appropriateness and Deprescribing Network is a world leader in this practice. It has compiled a number of tools for patients and clinicians. You can find them on their website and subscribe to the newsletter.
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Benefits should outweigh the risks&nbsp;
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Medications are very useful for staying healthy. It&rsquo;s not uncommon for us to have to take more medications as we age, but this shouldn&rsquo;t be seen as a foregone conclusion.
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Every medication we take must have direct or future benefits that outweigh the risks associated with them. As with many other issues, when it comes to polypharmacy, the saying, &ldquo;everything in moderation,&rdquo; frequently applies.&nbsp;
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This article first appeared in The Conversation.

Quebec City

Taking too many medicines in risky: How to avoid it

The temperature in Srinagar reached 35.7 degrees Celsius on Thursday, surpassing the July average by six degrees and marking the highest July temperature in 25 years.&nbsp;
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The last time the city experienced such high temperatures in July was in 1999 when it reached 37 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;
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Srinagar was even hotter than Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, which recorded temperatures of 31.7, 31, 32, and 28 degrees Celsius, respectively.&nbsp;
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Other areas in the Valley also experienced intense heat, with Qazigund reaching 32.8 degrees Celsius and Kupwara reaching 35.2 degrees Celsius.
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In recent weeks, the Valley has been experiencing increasing temperatures and intense heat, which has resulted in water scarcity in various areas.
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The health department has released guidelines to cope with the heatwave. In response, the school education department has declared a 10-day summer break for all schools in the Valley starting July 8.
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In response to the intense heat, people are opting to remain indoors.
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Some relief from the heat is expected on Friday as the meteorological department has predicted occasional periods of light to moderate rain or thunderstorms in many areas.
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The weather office also said that intermittent moderate rainfall is possible at many places in Jammu and Kashmir on Friday and Saturday, and heavy spells are possible at a few places.
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Light rainfall is expected on Sunday. It said that hot and humid weather is likely from July 8 to 10.&nbsp;

Srinagar

At 35.7°C, Srinagar warmer than Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata

The IMD has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall in Northwest and East India and heavy rainfall in Northeast India over the next 4-5 days.
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The weather department anticipates light to moderate rain in Northwest and Central India in the next five days. Isolated heavy rainfall is expected in the Jammu-Kashmir-Ladakh-Gilgit-Baltistan-Muzaffarabad region on July 4 and 6.
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Himachal Pradesh is likely to experience rain on July 6 and 7, Uttarakhand on July 8, Punjab on July 4, 6, and 7, Haryana-Chandigarh on July 4 and 7, Uttar Pradesh on July 4-8, West Rajasthan and Vidarbha on July 4, East Rajasthan on July 5 and 6, West Madhya Pradesh on July 5, East Madhya Pradesh on July 4 and 5, and Chhattisgarh on July 4, 7, and 8 are expected to witness light to moderate rain.
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The Jammu division is predicted to experience heavy rainfall on July 5. Himachal Pradesh is expected to experience heavy rainfall on July 4 and 5, Uttarakhand from July 4 to 7, Punjab on July 5, and Uttar Pradesh on July 4 and 5.&nbsp;
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Additionally, Uttarakhand is predicted to witness heavy rainfall from July 4 to 7, Punjab on July 5, Uttar Pradesh on July 5 and 6, East Rajasthan on July 4, and West Madhya Pradesh on July 4 are also predicted to have heavy rainfall.
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Over the next five days, light to moderate rainfall is anticipated in East and Northeast India. On July 4, West Bengal is expected to have isolated heavy rainfall, while the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are predicted to have heavy rainfall on July 4 and 5.&nbsp;
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Jharkhand is expected to have light to moderate rainfall on July 4 and 5, Odisha on July 4, 6, and 8, Bihar from July 6 to 8, and Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura on July 7 and 8. Additionally, Assam and Meghalaya are anticipated to experience light to moderate rainfall on July 8.
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The states of Bihar will experience isolated very heavy rainfall on July 4 and 5. Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim are predicted to witness isolated very heavy rainfall from July 4 to 6.&nbsp;
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From July 6, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura are expected to experience isolated, very heavy rainfall. Furthermore, Assam and Meghalaya are anticipated to have isolated very heavy rainfall on July 6 and 7, and Odisha on July 7.
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On July 4 and 5, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya are expected to endure isolated extremely heavy rainfall.
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IMD said isolated very heavy rainfall is likely over Konkan and Goa from July 4 to 6, Madhya Maharashtra from July 4 to 8, Saurashtra and Kutch from July 4, Coastal Karnataka from July 4 to 7, and South Interior Karnataka from July 4 to 6 and 7.&nbsp;
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Gujarat is expected to witness isolated extremely heavy rainfall today.

IMD forecasts heavy rain across India in next 5 days

Rishi Sunak has conceded defeat, and Keir Starmer is set to become the next Prime Minister. Keir Starmer's Labour Party achieved a massive victory in the UK general elections, indicating a major shift in British politics as Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party suffered a major loss.
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Despite Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's efforts to sway voters at the last minute, his Conservative Party was unsuccessful in the UK general elections. Before the voting, the Conservatives warned that choosing Labour would result in higher taxes.
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Under Keir Starmer's leadership, the Labour Party has surpassed the majority mark of 326 in the 650-member House of Commons. Rishi Sunak's party only secured 60 seats.
&nbsp;
Conceding defeat, Rishi Sunak stated, "Today, power will change hands peacefully and orderly, with goodwill on all sides. That is something that should give us all confidence in our country's stability and future." Addressing his supporters in Richmond and Northern Allerton, he added, "I am sorry. I take responsibility for the loss."
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Keir Starmer is expected to be sworn in as the Prime Minister later today. "Tonight people here and around the country have spoken, and they're ready for change," he said. "The change begins right here."
&nbsp;
The official election exit poll had predicted that Labour would win 410 seats, the highest since Tony Blair's 1997 landslide victory, with a projected majority of 170. Only one exit poll has been incorrect in the last six UK elections.
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In May, Rishi Sunak surprised many in his own party by calling the election earlier than necessary. In opinion polls, the Conservatives trailed Labour by about 20 points.
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Keir Starmer, the son of a toolmaker and a nurse, has promised "a decade of national renewal" after post-financial crash austerity measures, Brexit upheaval, and a cost-of-living crisis.

Rishi Sunak concedes defeat, Keir Starmer to be next UK PM

Amarpreet Kaur

An eight-member team of the Punjab Police would escort jailed 'Waris Punjab De' activist Amritpal Singh to New Delhi for his swearing-in as an MP, an official said.&nbsp;&nbsp;
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Singh, who has won the Lok Sabha polls from the Khadoor Sahib constituency in Punjab, has been granted four-day parole for the swearing-in.&nbsp;
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The police team, led by a Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP)-rank official, arrived here on Thursday afternoon and is scheduled to escort Singh, lodged in Dibrugarh Central Jail, to New Delhi in a special flight amid tight security for the swearing-in on Friday.&nbsp;
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Singh's lawyer Rajdev Singh Khalsa said he would be taken to Delhi aboard a "military aircraft" for the swearing-in.&nbsp;
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Singh's parole orders are stringent, prohibiting him or his relatives from making any public statements during his visit to New Delhi.&nbsp;
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Moreover, any form of media coverage, including videography or circulation of statements, is strictly prohibited.&nbsp;
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In addition, Singh has been instructed not to engage in any activities that might compromise national security.&nbsp;
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The deployment of security personnel during his temporary release and presence in Delhi will be overseen by the SSP, Amritsar (Rural).&nbsp;
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His parents, Tarsem Singh and Balwinder Kaur, and his wife Kirandeep Kaur, met the jailed activist in Dibrugarh Central jail last month after his poll win.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Amritpal won the Khadoor Sahib Lok Sabha seat by 1,97,120 votes as an Independent candidate by defeating Congress's Kulbir Singh Zira, while AAP's Laljit Singh Bhullar came third.&nbsp;
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The jailed activist polled 4,04,430, while Zira got 2,07,310 votes and Bhullar 1,94,836 votes.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Ten members of the outfit, including Amritpal and one of his uncles, have been lodged in jail since last year after they were arrested under the National Security Act from different parts of Punjab following a crackdown on the outfit.

Dibrugarh

Amritpal's oath-taking day: Tight security, media restricted

With 12 IAS officers facing transfers, on Thursday, during the appointment of 1990-batch officer Anurag Rastogi as the new home secretary, Haryana sees a major administrative reshuffle. 
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As cited in the government order, Rastogi has been transferred and posted as additional chief secretary of home, jails, criminal investigation, and administration of justice departments. Rastogi takes over as home secretary from Chief Secretary TVSN Prasad.
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In addition, as additional chief secretary, Rastogi will continue to hold his finance and planning departments. 
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The reshuffle in the top bureaucracy was on the cards for some time after the Lok Sabha polls and comes months before assembly elections, due later this year. 
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More than a week ago, in another major reshuffle, the Haryana government transferred 23 Indian Police Service (IPS) and 27 Haryana Police Service officers. 
&nbsp;
Among other transfers of Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers, Anurag Agarwal - the chief electoral officer and additional chief secretary of the elections department - has been posted as additional chief secretary in the irrigation and water resources department. 
&nbsp;
Phool Chand Meena, the managing director of Dakshin Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam, will be the new Hisar division commissioner in addition to his present duties. 
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Geeta Bharti, the Hisar division commissioner and managing director of the Haryana Scheduled Castes, Finance, and Development Corporation, will also be the commissioner of the Ambala division. 
&nbsp;
Ankur Gupta, additional chief secretary in the agriculture and farmers welfare department, has been transferred and posted as additional chief secretary in the cooperation department and as additional chief secretary in the personnel department (appointments). 
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Anand Mohan Sharan, additional chief secretary in the environment, forests, and wildlife department, has been posted as additional chief secretary in the labour department, in addition to his present duties.
&nbsp;
Raja Sekhar Vundru, the cooperation department's additional chief secretary, will be the new additional chief secretary in the agriculture and farmers welfare department and additional chief secretary in the animal husbandry and dairying department. 
&nbsp;
Vineet Garg, additional chief secretary in the higher education department, has been posted as additional chief secretary in the school education department. 
&nbsp;
Rajiv Rattan, director general of higher education and secretary of the higher education department, will be commissioner of the Karnal division, in addition to his present duties.

Chandigarh

With new home sec's appointment, Haryana transfers 12 IAS

A temporary ban of 6 days on the social media platforms - YouTube, WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok will be put in place by Pakistan's Punjab government in a bid to control "hate material" during Muharram (first month of the Islamic calendar). These six days will begin from July 13, till July 18. 
&nbsp;
The decision has been taken on the recommendations of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz's cabinet committee on law and order. 
&nbsp;
It's been over 4 months since the Islamic nation blocked 'X', formerly Twitter. 
&nbsp;
The committee has recommended banning all social media platforms - YouTube, X, WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, among others - during 6 to 11 Muharram (July 13-18) in Punjab, a province of over 120 million people, to "control hate material, misinformation to avoid sectarian violence", according to a Punjab government notification issued here late Thursday night. 
&nbsp;
The Punjab government of Maryam Nawaz has requested her uncle Shehbaz Sharif's government at the Centre to notify the suspension of all social media platforms on the internet for six days (July 13-18). 
&nbsp;
Pakistan Army Chief Gen Asim Munir has already declared social media a "vicious media" and underscored the need to fight what he called "digital terrorism".
&nbsp;
Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, who also holds the portfolio of foreign minister, recently called for placing a complete ban on social media.
&nbsp;
The Shehbaz government had shut down X last February following allegations of change of general election results by the Election Commission of Pakistan, apparently on the order of the military establishment to stop Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf's jailed founder Imran Khan from coming to power. 
&nbsp;
Both the military and the government have been receiving backlash on social media since the ouster of former prime minister Imran Khan through a no-confidence motion in April 2022. 
&nbsp;
The government has arrested dozens of social media activists of Khan's party since then.&nbsp;

Islamabad

Pakistan's Punjab govt to ban social media during Muharram

Deepan

Mirzapur, the popular Indian crime thriller series, returns after four years with its third season, featuring Ali Fazal and Ali Fazal reprising their roles as Guddu Bhaiya and Kaleen Bhaiya.
&nbsp;
While the show ramps up the bloodshed and gore, it struggles with a weak storyline and an overabundance of characters, despite some exceptional performances and an engaging first half.
&nbsp;
The series, known for introducing violence and gore to the Indian OTT space, takes it up a notch this season. At its core, Mirzapur narrates a tale of violence in the Hindi heartland, intersecting with Indian politics and law enforcement.
&nbsp;
The power games, sex, drugs, death, conflicted relationships, and betrayals form the crux of this gripping series.
&nbsp;
What's exciting this season?
&nbsp;
The third season picks up where the second ended. Guddu Bhaiya (Ali Fazal) and Golu (Shweta Tripathi Sharma) revel in their newfound power after claiming the Mirzapur throne. Kaleen Bhaiya (Pankaj Tripathi) grieves the loss of his son Munna (Divyenndu) after narrowly escaping death himself.
&nbsp;
Directors Gurmmeet Singh and Anand Iyer utilize locations to enhance realism. Symbolic scenes, like the breaking of Kaleen Bhaiya&rsquo;s statue, depict the shackling of his control over Mirzapur.
&nbsp;
Madhuri (Isha Talwar) stepping in to light Munna&rsquo;s pyre adds depth to the narrative.
&nbsp;
The use of elaborate graphics to illustrate the expanding map of the Mirzapur universe, spanning Eastern Uttar Pradesh, Northern Bihar, and Nepal, adds to the series' visual appeal.
&nbsp;
The bloodshed that follows is depicted with stark intensity.
&nbsp;
Performance-wise, Ali Fazal, Shweta Tripathi Sharma, and Anjum Sharma excel as Guddu, Golu, and Sharad. Their tension, conflict, and vengeance resonate with the audience.
&nbsp;
Anjum and Vijay Varma stand out, showcasing layers of dark ambitions and emotional vulnerabilities.
&nbsp;
Harshita Shekhar Gaur, Rajesh Tailang, and Sheeba Chadha provide strong support, elevating the flat screenplay with their emotive performances.
&nbsp;
The third season delivers on gore and variety, with twists and turns that keep viewers engaged.
&nbsp;
Turnoff point?
&nbsp;
The season introduces numerous fresh characters alongside the existing ones, making it challenging to connect all the dots. The slower pace of the plot, however, aids in this complex narrative. 
Isha Talwar impresses as Chief Minister Madhuri, though her acting occasionally falters for an otherwise powerful character.
&nbsp;
Some scenes are reminiscent of Game of Thrones, with shock value that might unsettle viewers.
&nbsp;
Fans eagerly awaited a faceoff between Kaleen Bhaiya and Guddu Bhaiya, but it remains absent.
&nbsp;
Pankaj Tripathi&rsquo;s character seems to take a backseat, allowing younger generations and new rivalries to dominate.
&nbsp;
While Rasika Dugal shines as Beena Tripathi, her character feels underwritten. Priyanshu Painyuli&rsquo;s Robin also seems underutilized despite a promising entry in season two.
&nbsp;
The finale feels underwhelming without the anticipated fireworks, leaving viewers questioning the build-up.
&nbsp;
The relentless rhythm of the series might have wasted the promise of the world it created, leaving some loose ends. Yet, the series offers a fun binge-watching experience, best enjoyed with friends.
&nbsp;
Mixed bag of entertainment 
Mirzapur 3 brings high stakes, high risks, and high drama, but the flair is low. Despite a predictable storyline, the season deserves a watch for its performances, direction, and moments of horror soaked in blood.
&nbsp;
Produced by Excel Media and Entertainment, Mirzapur season 3 is now streaming on Amazon Prime Video from July 5.

Mumbai

Mirzapur 3 review: A gory tale with flaws and flair

BJP leader and former Indian Air Force chief RKS Bhadauria on Thursday slammed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for raising questions on the Agniveer scheme and demanded his apology for accusing Defence Minister Rajnath Singh of lying about giving compensation to the next of kin of Agniveer Ajay Kumar, who lost his life in the line of duty. 
&nbsp;
"It&rsquo;s an emotional issue&hellip;The Army should not be involved (dragged) in such kind of politics," he said. 
&nbsp;
This came a day after the Indian Army rejected claims in social media posts that compensation hasn't been paid to the next of kin of Agniveer Ajay Kumar, who lost his life in the line of duty, and said his family has already been given Rs 98.39 lakh out of the due amount. 
&nbsp;
The total amount will be Rs 1.65 crore approximately, it said in the "clarification" on Wednesday that came after Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi shared on X a video purportedly of Ajay's father, who stated that they had not received any money. 
&nbsp;
Gandhi cited Ajay's case to allege in his post that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has "lied" in Parliament about the issue of compensation to families of martyred Agniveers and demanded an apology for it. 
&nbsp;
"A lot of discussions were held in Parliament on Agniveer. Now, controversy is being created that the defence minister&rsquo;s claim that Rs 1 crore has already been given was a lie. They should apologise for it because the fact is that about Rs 98 lakh has already been given to Ajay Singh&rsquo;s family and Rs 67 lakh more will be given," Bhadauria said without naming Gandhi. 
&nbsp;
Hence, it is "absolutely wrong" to claim that Singh&rsquo;s statement was a lie, he charged.
&nbsp;
The former IAF chief asserted that Agniveer is a "well thought out scheme", implemented after "extensive discussions".
&nbsp;
"Nobody should have any doubt about the (quality of) training provided to those recruited under the scheme. Soldiers raised under the scheme are not less than any regular soldier from any angle. They will work during the battle with the same capacity that the regular soldiers would do. Now, they will be our regular soldiers," he said. 
&nbsp;
Bhadauria appealed to the youth to join the Army under the Agniveer scheme without being &ldquo;misled&rdquo; by any claim against it.&nbsp;

BJP leader, EX-IAF chief slams Rahul over Agniveer claims

The victory parade for India's T20 World Cup-winning cricket team in Mumbai took an unfortunate turn as several fans were injured at Marine Drive on Thursday.
&nbsp;
According to Mumbai police, some fans faced breathing difficulties and required urgent medical attention.
&nbsp;
Eyewitness Ravi Solanki recounted the chaotic scene, "I was coming from the office and heard that the Indian team would arrive between 5 pm-6 pm, but they were delayed. The crowd kept growing, and the police failed to manage the situation. People began shouting, leading to some falling over each other. It was very unorganised, with no proper crowd control. This happened between 8:15-8:45 pm."
&nbsp;
One of the injured, Rishab Mahesh Yadav, described his ordeal, "The crowd was overwhelming. I fell, got choked, and lost consciousness. I was taken to a nearby hospital and received treatment. I feel fine now, but the mismanagement and lack of police alertness were evident."
&nbsp;
The parade, led by Rohit Sharma, started from Marine Drive with fans lining the route to celebrate the team's success.
&nbsp;
Players lifted the T20 World Cup trophy and acknowledged the support of their fans. Some enthusiastic supporters even climbed trees to catch a glimpse of their cricket heroes.
&nbsp;
During the parade, players distributed cricket balls to fans, posed for selfies, and signed autographs. Despite the celebratory atmosphere, the lack of crowd control marred the event.
&nbsp;
After the parade, the team was felicitated at Wankhede Stadium. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) presented the team with a ₹125 crore cheque as a token of appreciation for their victory.
&nbsp;
The entire team stood on stage with BCCI officials, marking the culmination of the day's events.

Several fans injured in Mumbai's T20 victory parade

The Rohit Sharma-led Team India was celebrated at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, following their historic victory over South Africa in Barbados to secure the T20 World Cup for the second time.
&nbsp;
The celebration evoked memories of the 2011 ODI World Cup win at the same venue, where MS Dhoni's men were cheered on by the iconic crowd.
&nbsp;
In a moment reminiscent of the 2011 final, the Wankhede crowd joined Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya in a powerful rendition of AR Rahman's 'Maa Tujhe Salam'.
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
वंदे मातरम 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/j5D4nMMdF9">pic.twitter.com/j5D4nMMdF9</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1808924161747681755?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
Kohli, the only player from both World Cup-winning squads, led the chorus, giving fans an unforgettable experience.
&nbsp;
The video of this emotional moment, shared by the BCCI with the caption 'Vande Mataram,' quickly went viral, garnering nearly two million views.
&nbsp;
The celebratory atmosphere extended beyond the stadium. After being delayed in Barbados due to Hurricane Beryl, Team India arrived in New Delhi on a charter flight early Thursday.
&nbsp;
They met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his residence before heading to Mumbai, where a sea of fans greeted them along Marine Drive.
&nbsp;
In an open bus convoy, Captain Rohit Sharma and his deputy Hardik Pandya proudly displayed the coveted trophy as fans lined the streets, waving the Indian flag and cheering for their cricket heroes.
&nbsp;
The team then participated in an official celebration organised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) at Wankhede Stadium.
&nbsp;
Fans, who had waited for hours to see their cricket idols, danced, waved flags, and illuminated the night with their smartphone lights.
&nbsp;
This victory marks India's first ICC trophy in 11 years, their first world title in 13 years, and their first T20 championship in 17 years.
&nbsp;
To commemorate the achievement, the BCCI announced a cash bonus of INR 125 crore for the winning squad.

Team India's emotional 'Vande Mataram' rendition at Wankhede

As voting concluded in the landmark UK general election, an exit poll has forecast a substantial defeat for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party.
&nbsp;
Labour, under Keir Starmer, is predicted to secure a resounding victory, marking a significant shift in the political landscape of the country.
&nbsp;
Released shortly after polling stations closed on Thursday night, the exit poll suggests that Labour could win as many as 410 seats.
&nbsp;
This would comfortably surpass the 326-seat majority threshold and give the party a 170-seat lead over the Conservatives, who are projected to drop to 131 seats.
&nbsp;
Labour leader Keir Starmer took to social media to express gratitude to voters and campaigners: "To everyone who has campaigned for Labour in this election, to everyone who voted for us and put their trust in our changed Labour Party &mdash; thank you."
&nbsp;
Early results showed Labour's momentum, with Houghton and Sunderland in north-east England being the first constituency to declare in favour of Labour's Bridget Phillipson.
&nbsp;
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also addressed supporters on social media after the release of the exit poll.
&nbsp;
"To the hundreds of Conservative candidates, thousands of volunteers and millions of voters: Thank you for your hard work, thank you for your support, and thank you for your vote."
&nbsp;
However, his future as the leader of the Conservative Party appears uncertain, as the party braces for a potentially historic loss.
&nbsp;
Earlier in the day, Sunak and his wife Akshata Murty were seen casting their votes in Richmond and Northallerton, Yorkshire.
&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Starmer and his wife Victoria, donning Labour red, voted in Camden, north London.
&nbsp;
Both leaders were among the first to vote, joining millions of citizens in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
&nbsp;
Throughout the six-week campaign, Sunak faced the daunting task of overcoming voter dissatisfaction with the Conservatives' 14-year tenure.
&nbsp;
Conversely, Starmer's Labour Party consistently led in the polls, capitalising on widespread calls for change.
&nbsp;
As polling closed, the atmosphere was tense, with candidates from across the political spectrum anxiously awaiting results.
&nbsp;
The election saw 650 constituencies contested, with a majority of 326 seats needed to form a government under the first-past-the-post system.
&nbsp;
Aside from Labour and the Conservatives, the election featured a diverse array of parties including the Liberal Democrats, Green Party, Scottish National Party (SNP), SDLP, Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), Sinn Fein, Plaid Cymru, Workers' Party, the anti-immigration Reform Party, and several independents.
&nbsp;
This broad field added to the complexity and unpredictability of the election.
&nbsp;
Polling stations across the country operated from 7 am to 10 pm local time, serving an estimated 46 million registered voters.
&nbsp;
Despite the extensive campaign efforts, experts had predicted a lower voter turnout compared to the 67 per cent seen in the December 2019 general election, where the Conservatives won 365 seats, securing an 80-seat majority.
&nbsp;
In contrast, Labour had won 202 seats, with the SNP, Liberal Democrats, and other parties sharing the remainder.
&nbsp;
This election, initiated by Sunak who had until January 2025 to call for it, was unexpected.
&nbsp;
Choosing a summer election date on July 4th, he sought to solidify his mandate following his ascent to the prime ministership in October 2022 amidst political upheaval.
&nbsp;
Sunak's leadership was marked by his selection as Tory leader and becoming the first Prime Minister of Indian heritage in the UK.
&nbsp;
For Starmer, this election represented his first significant test at the polls since taking over from Jeremy Corbyn after Labour's 2019 defeat.
&nbsp;
His campaign focused on promises of change and stability, resonating with a populace eager for a shift from the longstanding Conservative governance.

UK exit poll predicts huge loss for Sunak's Tories

Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi left Delhi early Friday morning for Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, to meet the families of the stampede victims.
&nbsp;
The tragedy at a religious gathering claimed 121 lives.
&nbsp;
"Rahul ji left for Hathras at around 5.10 am," said state Congress chief Ajay Rai. Accompanying Gandhi are state Congress in-charge Avinash Pande, party spokesperson Supriya Shrinate, and other officials.
&nbsp;
Rai blamed the Uttar Pradesh government for the incident.
&nbsp;
"The Hathras stampede is a failure of the UP government. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak visited Hathras separately, indicating internal conflicts," he stated at a press conference.
&nbsp;
The Congress has demanded compensation of Rs 1 crore for the families of the deceased and Rs 25 lakh for the injured.
&nbsp;
"We also seek a judicial inquiry by a sitting High Court judge," Rai added.
&nbsp;
The Uttar Pradesh government has formed a three-member judicial commission, led by a retired High Court judge, to investigate the tragedy and examine any potential conspiracy behind the stampede.

Rahul Gandhi travels to Hathras to support stampede victims

MP-elect Engineer Rashid was granted two hours of custody parole for his oath-taking on July 5 by the Delhi High Court following multiple hearings on Tuesday.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Currently incarcerated in Tihar Jail, Rashid faces charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention)&nbsp;Act (UAPA) for allegedly funding terrorism and promoting separatism in Jammu and Kashmir.
 Despite being behind bars, Rashid contested the recent Lok Sabha elections as an independent&nbsp;candidate, securing a significant victory over his nearest rival, Omar Abdullah of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC).
&nbsp;
According to the 1951 Representation of the People Act, an individual who is jailed but not yet&nbsp;convicted retains the right to contest elections. 
&nbsp;
Similar cases have emerged in Indian politics. For instance, in Punjab, Amritpal Singh won his seat&nbsp;from Khadoor Sahib in Punjab while facing charges of fuelling separatism and the Khalistani movement. Like Rashid, Amritpal is also scheduled to take his oath on July 5.
&nbsp;
The high court granted him parole for four days; he is currently lodged in Assam's Dibrugarh jail. His case is typical since jail authorities have to travel back and forth for days to facilitate his oath-taking.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The two-hour parole granted to Rashid presents unique logistical challenges, including the coordination between jail authorities and Parliament to ensure his timely return.
&nbsp;
How authorities will manage this affair is an interesting question.
&nbsp;
While this case was proceeding with the court, the National Investigation Agency ( NIA) was asked to submit its reservations or objections to granting of parole.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;Although NIA had no objections, its officials urged the high court to set restrictions on the bail plea.
&nbsp;
What does the Indian constitution tell us about such cases?
&nbsp;
Article 99 of the Indian Constitution specifies that every MP must take an oath before taking their seat in Parliament. The oath is administered by the President or a person appointed by the President for this purpose.
&nbsp;
Even after winning elections, judicial intervention is usually important in cases where proceedings or&nbsp;rulings must be decided by courts.
&nbsp;
In special cases, if an MP is in jail, arrangements can be made for him or her to take the oath. This situation requires coordination between Parliamentary authorities and jail authorities.
&nbsp;
MPs in custody are typically escorted by police, and they may be handcuffed depending on the security assessment. The use of handcuffs can be decided by the police based on the threat perception and regulations.
&nbsp;
Transportation logistics depend on the distance and security arrangements. For example, Tihar Jail is approximately 18 kilometres from Parliament House in New Delhi.
&nbsp;
Given the distance between Tihar Jail to Parliament House, with heavy rain forecast, will transporting an MP and facilitating his return within two hours be manageable?

Engineer Rashid: Just two hours of freedom for an MP

An eight-member team of Punjab Police arrived on Thursday to escort jailed 'Waris Punjab De' activist Amritpal Singh to New Delhi for his swearing-in as a Member of Parliament, an official stated.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Singh, who won from the Khadoor Sahib Lok Sabha constituency in Punjab, has been granted four days of parole to attend the swearing-in ceremony.
&nbsp;
The police team, led by a Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP)-rank official, arrived here in the afternoon and is scheduled to escort Singh, lodged in Dibrugarh Central Jail, to New Delhi in a special flight amid tight security for the swearing-in on Friday.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Singh's lawyer Rajdev Singh Khalsa said he will be taken to Delhi aboard a "military aircraft" for the swearing-in.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Singh's parole orders are stringent, prohibiting him or his relatives from making any public statements during his visit to New Delhi.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Moreover, any form of media coverage, including videography or circulation of statements, is strictly prohibited.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
In addition, Singh has been instructed not to engage in any activities that might compromise national security.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The deployment of security personnel during his temporary release and presence in Delhi will be overseen by the SSP, Amritsar (Rural).&nbsp;
&nbsp;
His parents, Tarsem Singh and Balwinder Kaur, and his wife Kirandeep Kaur, met the jailed activist in Dibrugarh Central jail last month after his Lok Sabha win.
&nbsp;
Amritpal won from the Khadoor Sahib Lok Sabha seat by 1,97,120 votes as an Independent candidate by defeating Congress's Kulbir Singh Zira, while AAP's Laljit Singh Bhullar came third.
&nbsp;
The jailed activist polled 4,04,430, while Zira got 2,07,310 votes and Bhullar 1,94,836 votes.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Ten members of the outfit, including Amritpal and one of his uncles, have been lodged in jail since March 19 last year after they were arrested under the National Security Act from different parts of Punjab following a crackdown on the outfit.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Punjab Police in Assam to escort Amritpal to Delhi for oath

Delhi High Court judge Amit Sharma recused himself on Thursday from hearing a batch of bail pleas in a Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) case linked to an alleged larger conspiracy behind the 2020 communal riots in Delhi, including that of student activist Sharjeel Imam.
&nbsp;
The matters were listed before a division bench headed by Justice Prathiba M Singh after a change in the roster of judges dealing with such cases. Justice Singh ordered that these matters be listed before another bench of which Justice Sharma is not a member, subject to the orders of the acting chief justice, on July 24.
&nbsp;
Other accused in the case include Rashtriya Janata Dal's (RJD) youth wing leader and Jamia Millia Islamia student Meeran Haider, and Alumni Association of Jamia Millia Islamia president Shifa-ur-Rehman.
&nbsp;
Imam, United Against Hate founder Khalid Saifi, and several others, including former Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) student Umar Khalid, have been booked under the UAPA and provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for allegedly being the "masterminds" of the February 2020 riots in northeast Delhi that left 53 people dead and more than 700 injured.
&nbsp;
The violence had erupted during protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC).
&nbsp;
On April 11, 2022, the trial court denied bail to Imam, who was arrested in the case on August 25, 2020. The Delhi Police opposed Imam's bail plea before a bench headed by Justice Suresh Kumar Kait in March on the ground that he mobilised members of the minority community and "propagated" "chakka jam" as a mode of disruption, with "no window for a peaceful protest."
&nbsp;
Police have claimed that the protests were part of a conspiracy to trigger violence at the time of the visit of then United States president Donald Trump and that Imam, in his public addresses, had propagated the idea of "chakka jam" as the plan of action to paralyse the government.
&nbsp;
The other accused persons in the case, including Haider and Rehman, are also facing similar charges under the UAPA and IPC. The charges stem from the Delhi Police's investigation into the riots, which they allege were premeditated and orchestrated by the accused to incite violence and disrupt peace.
&nbsp;
The police have cited various pieces of evidence, including speeches, social media posts, and witness testimonies, to support their claims.
&nbsp;
The decision of Justice Sharma to recuse himself from the case adds another layer of complexity to the legal proceedings, which have already seen multiple delays and adjournments.
&nbsp;
The bail pleas of the accused have been a contentious issue, with their supporters arguing that they are being unfairly targeted for their activism and dissent against the government's policies.
&nbsp;
As the case progresses, it will continue to be a focal point of debate and scrutiny, both within the legal community and the broader public.
&nbsp;
The outcome of the bail pleas and the subsequent trial will have significant implications not only for the accused but also for the broader discourse on civil liberties, dissent, and the state's response to protests in India.

Delhi HC Judge steps back from 2020 riots bail hearings

The Dagestan province in Russia has imposed a temporary ban on the wearing of niqabs, following a series of terror attacks on Jewish and Orthodox Christian houses of worship.
&nbsp;
The niqab, a full-face veil with an opening for the eyes, is now forbidden "until the identified threats are eliminated" and the religious authorities arrive at "a new theological conclusion." This decision was announced by the muftiate, the administrative body responsible for issuing religious rules in the republic.
&nbsp;
The ban follows a series of attacks on synagogues and Orthodox churches in Makhachkala and Derbent, resulting in the deaths of 22 people and injuring many others.
&nbsp;
Dagestan's authorities attributed the attacks to "international terrorist organisations" but did not specify which groups were responsible. Reports suggest that one of the five attackers planned to escape wearing a niqab as a disguise, prompting the temporary ban.
&nbsp;
Dagestan&rsquo;s governor, Sergei Melikov, called the niqab a 'security risk'. The region, predominantly Muslim, has a history of Islamic insurgency. The niqab ban has sparked various reactions from prominent figures in Russia.
&nbsp;
Alexander Bastrykin, head of Russia&rsquo;s Investigative Committee, suggested a blanket ban on the niqab after the attacks. However, Ramzan Kadyrov, the leader of Chechnya, cautioned against such measures, stating that one should not confuse religions with the actions of extremists. He emphasised that these "fanatics" have no connection to the holy scriptures.
&nbsp;
In June, Russian law enforcement identified five attackers behind the violence in Derbent and Makhachkala. These attacks led to the deaths of at least 15 police officers and four civilians, including an Orthodox priest.
&nbsp;
Some attackers were from the Sergo Kalinsky district, located between Derbent and Makhachkala, and had connections to the district&rsquo;s head. Notably, former MMA fighter Gadzhimurad Kagirov, a cousin of the district head, Magomed Omarov, was involved in the violence in Derbent. Relatives of Omarov, including his son and nephew, also participated in the attacks.
&nbsp;
These attacks are part of a disturbing trend of rising Islamic extremism in Russia. Earlier this year, a terrorist group stormed a concert hall near Moscow, killing 145 people in an attack claimed by the Islamic State.
&nbsp;
These incidents have highlighted the growing threat of extremism in Russia, posing a significant challenge for President Vladimir Putin, who is also dealing with the ongoing war in Ukraine.
&nbsp;
The temporary ban on niqabs in Dagestan underscores the heightened security measures being implemented in response to these threats. While the move aims to prevent further attacks and enhance public safety, it has also sparked debate about religious freedom and the potential for such measures to alienate the Muslim community. The situation remains tense as authorities continue their efforts to address the security concerns and bring stability to the region.

Moscow

Niqab ban in Dagestan after synagogue and church attacks

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Astana on Thursday.
&nbsp;
The meeting focused on the early resolution of remaining border issues between India and China. Following the meeting, Jaishankar emphasised the need for respecting the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and ensuring peace in the border areas.
&nbsp;
He highlighted that the principles of mutual respect, mutual sensitivity, and mutual interest would guide bilateral relations between the two nations.
&nbsp;
Jaishankar shared details of the discussion on the social media platform X, stating, "Met with CPC Politburo member and FM Wang Yi in Astana this morning. Discussed early resolution of remaining issues in border areas.
&nbsp;
Agreed to redouble efforts through diplomatic and military channels to that end. Respecting the LAC and ensuring peace and tranquillity in the border areas is essential. The three mutuals - mutual respect, mutual sensitivity, and mutual interest - will guide our bilateral ties."
&nbsp;
The relationship between India and China has been strained since the border standoff in eastern Ladakh, where 20 Indian soldiers lost their lives while countering Chinese forces.
&nbsp;
The violent clash also resulted in casualties on the Chinese side. Since then, both countries have engaged in multiple rounds of military and diplomatic talks to resolve the issues along the LAC.
&nbsp;
In March, India and China exchanged views on achieving complete disengagement and resolving issues along the LAC in the Western sector of the border. Despite these efforts, tensions have persisted, highlighting the importance of continued dialogue and negotiation.
&nbsp;
During their meeting in Astana, Jaishankar and Wang Yi shared a warm handshake and engaged in conversation before posing for photographs. This gesture of goodwill underscores the ongoing diplomatic efforts to address and resolve the border issues.
&nbsp;
S. Jaishankar is leading the Indian delegation at the 24th Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of State (SCO Summit) in Kazakhstan. Upon his arrival, he was welcomed by Kazakhstan's Deputy Foreign Minister, Alibek Bakaye.
&nbsp;
Jaishankar also met with Kazakhstan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu. He expressed his gratitude for the hospitality and arrangements for the SCO summit and discussed the expanding strategic partnership between India and Kazakhstan. The conversation also included India's increasing engagement with Central Asia and views on regional and global issues.
&nbsp;
The SCO summit provides a platform for member states to discuss and collaborate on various regional and international issues. India's participation in the summit highlights its commitment to strengthening ties with member countries and addressing common challenges through cooperation and dialogue.
&nbsp;
As India and China continue to navigate their complex relationship, the principles of mutual respect, sensitivity, and interest will play a crucial role in shaping future interactions.
&nbsp;
The emphasis on resolving border issues peacefully and maintaining stability in the region reflects both countries' understanding of the importance of a stable and cooperative relationship for broader regional security.
&nbsp;
The outcome of the recent discussions between Jaishankar and Wang Yi remains to be seen, but the commitment to continued dialogue and cooperation is a positive step towards resolving long standing issues and fostering a more stable and constructive relationship between India and China.

Astana

EAM Jaishankar and Wang Yi discuss border issues at SCO

Former Haryana Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda accused the ruling BJP government of failing to fulfill its election promises and making new announcements to deceive the public. He made the remarks, addressing the 'Meet the Press' program at the Press Club, today, in Chandigarh.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Hooda slammed the BJP for its unfulfilled promises, including implementation of the Swaminathan report, doubling farmers' income, employment for all, and pucca houses for all, which were made in 2014.
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"Who will compensate the loss that the public has suffered in 10 years due to the absurd decisions of the government," he questioned.
&nbsp;
He then criticised the BJP's anti-people policies, including the closure of 5,000 schools, vacancy of 50,000 posts in the education department, and failure to provide an old age pension of Rs 5,100. He also questioned the BJP's decision to take away the right of 100-yard plots from the poor, SC, and OBC, and instead give them 30-yard plots.
&nbsp;
The former Chief Minister highlighted the development works done by the Congress government in Haryana, including the establishment of universities, medical colleges, and industries. He said that the Congress had made Haryana a hub of sports, education, industry, and IT, and had made the state number one in the country in per capita income, investment, and employment generation.
&nbsp;
"This government has committed dozens of scams worth thousands of crores in the state. The government itself has accepted many scams and has talked about investigating them. But to date, no scam has been investigated," Hooda said.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"This makes it clear that the character of the BJP is still the same, which is not going to change. That is why this government has decided to continue the additional surcharge of 47 paise per unit of electricity. During the entire tenure, this government did not establish any new power plant and did not generate even a single unit of electricity. Whereas the Congress government had established 4 power plants and 1 nuclear plant in the state," he added.
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Hooda challenged the BJP to account for its old promises before making new ones. He said that Congress will make Haryana an unemployment and crime-free state if voted to power, and will fill the vacant posts and curb unemployment.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Congress will take forward the development works started by the previous Congress government, Hooda affirmed.&nbsp;

Hooda slams BJP for unfulfilled promises in Haryana

Northern Israel was engulfed in chaos on Thursday morning as sirens blared across the Galilee region, signalling a sudden barrage of rockets and drones launched by Hezbollah.
&nbsp;
Communities in the Upper Galilee, Golan Heights, and coastal cities like Akko and Nahariya hurried to seek shelter, responding to an unprecedented assault that Hezbollah claims included 200 projectiles within just one hour. The severity of the attack was underscored when shrapnel from an intercepted rocket caused damage to a shopping mall in Akko.
&nbsp;
The escalation follows recent developments, including an Israeli airstrike in Tyre, southern Lebanon, which targeted and killed Muhammad Nimah Nasser. Nasser was a prominent figure, commanding Hezbollah's Aziz Unit responsible for launching rockets at Israeli territories and security forces. In response, overnight airstrikes by Israeli fighter jets hit multiple Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanese areas of Chihine and Blat.
&nbsp;
The backdrop of these events is a mounting crisis that began in October, prompting the evacuation of approximately 60,000 Israelis from northern communities due to relentless daily rocket and drone assaults by Hezbollah.
&nbsp;
The group's leadership, backed by Iran, has vowed to continue these attacks, preventing civilians from returning to their homes. Tragically, the ongoing conflict has claimed the lives of 10 civilians and 15 soldiers, underscoring the humanitarian toll and the urgency of the situation.
&nbsp;
Calls from Israeli officials intensify for Hezbollah's disarmament and removal from southern Lebanon, echoing UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which aimed to stabilise the region after the 2006 Second Lebanon War.
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The resolution emphasised the need to uphold peace and security by disbanding armed groups and enforcing Lebanese sovereignty over its entire territory.
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"Fighting for the North," an organisation representing displaced Israeli families, has demanded robust governmental action to quell the Hezbollah threat and facilitate safe returns. They assert that only establishing a security zone within Lebanon can ensure long-term peace and prevent further hostilities.
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The current crisis represents a critical juncture for Israel, facing a profound challenge to its northern borders and civilian safety. As tensions escalate, the Israeli government's response is crucial in determining the trajectory of this conflict and safeguarding the lives of its citizens.
&nbsp;
The international community watches closely as the situation unfolds, hoping for diplomatic resolutions that can de-escalate tensions and restore stability to the region.
&nbsp;
The recent Hezbollah attacks have thrust northern Israel into turmoil, prompting urgent calls for decisive action to safeguard civilian lives and restore peace to the region.
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The coming days will be crucial in determining the course of this conflict and the measures needed to mitigate its impact on both Israeli and Lebanese populations.

Jerusalem

Hezbollah launches 200 rockets and drones at Israel

Neha Singh

With its massive fandom, Mirzapur has given a lot of love and reach to its actors, says Vijay Varma, who remembers watching the first season as a fan and getting instantly intrigued by the show world.
&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">The actor said he was more than happy when he was offered the role of twin brothers in the second season. And now that he is returning for the third one, he said it&rsquo;s a good feeling to be part of the show.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&ldquo;It&rsquo;s unparalleled (the show&rsquo;s popularity). I can&rsquo;t tell you how much this show gives us because jaha par kisine kuch nahi dekha hai usne Mirzapur dekha hai (people who haven&rsquo;t seen anything have seen the show). So, that&rsquo;s the kind of love and reach&hellip;. It&rsquo;s like you&rsquo;re not worried about what the critics will say. It&rsquo;s a good feeling,&rdquo; Varma told the media.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">The crime drama introduced Varma, who has since built an enviable body of work in both movies and on OTT with projects such as Darlings, She and Dahaad, as twin brothers Bharat Tyagi and Shatrughan Tyagi.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&ldquo;I watched the first season of Mirzapur as an audience. I was hooked. The way they ended the first season was so disturbing and gripping. It left you thinking, &lsquo;I want to watch this story, I want to know what happens next&rsquo;.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&ldquo;Then I saw the fandom erupt and I was like, &lsquo;Have we actually become this country that has fandom for shows? It&rsquo;s a one-of-its-kind series, I think Sacred Games, and Mirzapur, are the pioneers&hellip;. So, when I was asked to do the second season, I was more than glad,&rdquo; Varma, 38, said.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">The show, which borrows its name and fictional setting from the Uttar Pradesh city of Mirzapur, is premiering on July 5 on Prime Video.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">He praised Singh for creating a universe that remains unchanged on the surface whether it is the lighting, the set, props or the outfits that his character gets to wear in the show, making it easier to slip into the character.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">The actor is happy that his recent projects gave him the opportunity to expand his horizons.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Produced by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani&rsquo;s Excel Entertainment, Mirzapur 3 will stream on Prime Video from Friday. 
&nbsp;

Huge fandom of Mirzapur intrigues Actor Vijay Varma

Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal has managed to survive the crisis triggered by some rebel senior leaders. That, in fact, was a foregone conclusion even when the rebellion started. None of the rebel leaders has the stature to outdo Sukhbir.&nbsp; 
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Within the existing structure of the party, there can be no serious challenge, leaving aside any threat, to Sukhbir&rsquo;s leadership. Most of those who have rebelled against him, have hardly any popular base and are too much dependent on the party support. 
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But the greater challenge for Sukhbir still exists and that is the revival of his party, the Shiromani Akali Dal. That challenge was there before the rebellion and that challenge will continue even after the rebellion will die down, which eventually it will. 
&nbsp;
Sukhbir has on its side the all-powerful Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and also the Akal Takaht Jathedar, who is appointed by the SGPC.&nbsp; 
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He has a team of senior leaders with him, which includes, Maheshinder Singh Grewal, Balwinder Singh Bhunder, Paramjit Singh Sarna, Daljeet Cheema, his brother-in-law Bikram Singh Majithia, one of the most powerful and promising leaders of the party. 
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Compared to that, those who are opposed to him, have rebelled earlier also like Bibi Jagir Kaur and Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa and his son. The new entrants into the rebels&rsquo; ranks include Surjeet Singh Rakhra, whose rebellion seemed strange given his proximity with the Badal family, Prem Singh Chandumajra, Sikander Singh Maluka, whose son and daughter-in-law are already in the BJP, and Gurpartap Singh Wadala.&nbsp;
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All these leaders do have their respective support pockets. But they can be impactful and influential only along with the Akali Dal and not without it.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;
Manpreet Singh Ayali, the Dakha legislator, who had also demanded implementation of the Iqbal Singh Jhundan committee recommendations, which means replacing Sukhbir Singh Badal, has maintained equal distance from both Sukhbir as well as the rebels. 
&nbsp;
The rebels do not seem to have any concrete alternative programme to revive the party. They assume that the public anger against the Shiromani Akali Dal is exclusively because of Sukhbir Badal. That is not the case. 
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Sukhbir&rsquo;s leadership is only one of the reasons. His removal will certainly not instantly revive the party as long as there is not an influential alternative available. Rather that has the potential of completely imploding the Akali Dal, which will be disastrous for Punjab.
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Former Akal Takhat acting Jathedar, Giani Harpreet Singh has volunteered himself, in a subtle way though, to lead the party. He has started believing himself to fit in the role that the rebels suggested as he considers himself both as a scholar and a political leader. Leading an organisation like the Shiromani Akali Dal will need much more than a PhD degree in religious studies.
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Sukhbir is trapped in a serious dilemma. He realises that his party&rsquo;s revival cannot be possible without external support. He and before him, his father could retain control over the party as they had a friendly ally in BJP with them.&nbsp; 
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Right now, Sukhbir does not have any allies. He is surrounded by certain people, like Sarna, who have always been opposed to the BJP. Sarna is known for his proximity with the Congress leadership.&nbsp; 
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It is also a fact that the Akalis do not have anything against the BJP. Nor does the BJP carry any baggage that should make the Akali Dal defensive. Yes, there has been a narrative built up in Punjab against the BJP during and in the aftermath of the farmers&rsquo; stir. 
&nbsp;
It was partially the failure of the Akali Dal that led the situation to aggravate to such a level. Akali leadership caved into the pressure of those who have always been opposed to the BJP and that too without any apparent reason. Rather, the BJP has done certain things for the Sikh community no other party has done.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;
Had the Akali Dal aligned with the BJP in the 2024 General Elections, they would have together won between six to eight seats. This would have provided much-needed redemption for the party. And of course, there would not have been any rebellion. 
&nbsp;
Sukhbir will need to weigh his options, although he has very limited (options). And rapprochement with the BJP can certainly be one of them. He should stop leaders like his wife Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Sarna from blaming the BJP for the rebellion. He should reassess and rethink who were the people who prevented an alliance with the BJP. Maybe those same people are still trying to create a situation where a rapprochement will be out of the question. 
&nbsp;
The revival and strengthening of the Akali Dal is not only in the interest of Punjab but also in the interest of the country. If the Akali Dal gets weakened, the panthic space will be occupied by radicals and extremists. Khadoor Sahib and Faridkot election results are an indication.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;
The BJP leadership will also need to rethink and reconsider its approach towards its former ally, which has been most trustworthy and least troublesome and has never made any undue or unreasonable demands.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;
It is good that Sukhbir survived the rebellion, which he would have survived anyway. It would be better if he starts and succeeds in reviving the Shiromani Akali Dal. Once the process starts, things will start falling in line immediately.&nbsp;

Sukhbir survives rebel crisis, tough task to revive SAD

As one writes this piece on monsoon preparedness in north India, a newsflash from Himachal Pradesh (HP) on television catches the eye. It&rsquo;s July 4, parts of the state have been hit by heavy rain, leading to 115 roads being closed.&nbsp;
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Cracks have appeared on a road between the Manali-Pandoh stretch on the Chandigarh-Manali highway and it has started sinking.
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It is to be noted that monsoons have just hit the northern region after a prolonged and intense heatwave.
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Delhi has already had its deluge by the end of June, the heaviest for the month since 1936, with 228m rain recorded just within 24 hours even as the Capital&rsquo;s record for the entire monsoon season is 800 mm. &nbsp;
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Roads were waterlogged, rainwater inundated buildings, including hospitals, with crucial surgeries postponed at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and Lok Nayak Hospital.
&nbsp;
The death toll recorded was 11. A cab driver was killed as the canopy of T1 at Indira Gandhi International Airport collapsed.
&nbsp;
Two children were electrocuted in northwest Delhi, two boys and an elderly man drowned in flooded underpasses and three workers were killed as a wall collapsed at a construction site in Vasant Vihar.
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The state governments have had adequate warning to ensure adequate arrangements are made to tackle the monsoon. They should have hopefully&nbsp; learnt lessons from last year, when&nbsp; Delhi, HP, Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh virtually drowned as a monsoon surge coupled with western disturbance simply dumped water over the region, causing landslides, destroying buildings, washing away cars, damaging roads and infrastructure.
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Hundreds of lives were lost.
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This year&rsquo;s early monsoon rain woes in Delhi prove that emergency measures have to be taken to ensure citizens and infrastructure are protected and life is not thrown out of gear as the monsoon season advances.&nbsp;
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Adequate noise has been made about flood prevention drives, but the coming days will prove how effective these are.
&nbsp;
DELHI
According to a Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) statement, more than 80,000 metric tonnes of silt was removed from 466-km of drains in the city as part of its first phase target of de-silting operations by the end of June.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Around 713 drains with a depth of four feet or more across 12 MC zones were also desilted. Fourteen drains out of 22 being transferred to the irrigation and flood control department were included in the desilting operations. Twelve out of the 14&nbsp; drains, including the Moat drain at Vijay Ghat, ISBT drain, Kailash Nagar drain and Sweeper Colony drain, had been cleaned.
 In its statement, the MCD said it had &ldquo;achieved an average of more than 100 per cent de-silting target set for drains under its jurisdiction, successfully cleaning 713 drains that are four feet and above, spanning a total length of 466 km," the statement said.
&nbsp;
Around 80,690.4 metric tonnes of silt were removed and were being transported to landfill sites under continuous monitoring, the statement added.
&nbsp;
All drains in areas under MCD were being cleaned in coordination with the irrigation and flood control and public works departments and the Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (DSIIDC) to avoid waterlogging.
&nbsp;
About 72 permanent pumping stations and 465 mobile and submersible pumps of various capacities were available in case of waterlogging. Extra portable pumps had been set up at vulnerable spots across all zones, read the statement.
&nbsp;
DCs and other senior officials were on standby to sort out desilting and waterlogging issues, ensuring prompt deployment of manpower and resources as needed, MCD said.
&nbsp;
Citizens could register complaints of waterlogging, fallen trees and damage to buildings at the MCD&rsquo;s control rooms at the MCD headquarters and in all its 12 zones.
&nbsp;
HIMACHAL PRADESH Rain created havoc in the state last year, with three "extreme spells" in July and August, more than 150 identified landslides and 72 flash floods affecting various parts of the state, leading to 404 deaths, with 38 missing till September. &nbsp;
 Losses from the natural disasters had amounted to Rs 10,000 crore Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu had said.
&nbsp;
This year, however, he has expressed confidence that all steps are in place to deal with rain related disasters in the state.
&nbsp;
The Disaster Management Authority was coordinating with all departments concerned to prevent any monsoon-related damage, he said at the end of June while interacting with the media.
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&ldquo;Adequate manpower and machinery has been deployed at identified vulnerable locations,&rdquo; the CM added.
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Regular mock drills and disaster management training were being conducted for field staff and other officials.
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The state government had also held regular meetings on disaster preparedness with district administrations.
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PUNJAB A high alert was sounded in the state in July 2023 after unrelenting rain, with Jalandhar, Patiala and Dera Bassi hit hardest.&nbsp;
 Residents of a society close to Chandigarh had to be evacuated in boats as the Ghaggar river overflowed. Roads were damaged and fields flooded.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
This year, a media outlet has quoted drainage department sources as saying that the state government has allocated Rs 300 crore for flood management.
&nbsp;
Vulnerable points had been identified at various places, including the Sutlej, Beas, Ravi and Ghaggar rivers and the countless streams and rivulets emptying into the water bodies as well as the major nullahs and canal systems.
&nbsp;
Efforts are being made to reinforce the embankments of the main rivers, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had said during a visit to areas near the Ghaggar in the middle of June to &nbsp;check flood-prevention measures.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Speaking to people he said that the Punjab government was working on various measures to combat flooding, including creation of seasonal rivulets to absorb flood discharge and delineating floodplains under the Northern India Canal and Drainage Act.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
From creating a databank of bag suppliers, local volunteers and earth moving equipment operators to developing bamboo plantations on the inner slopes of rivers, the CM said long term planning was being done to combat floods.
&nbsp;
More than 250,000 sandbags would be kept ready at key locations along the Ghaggar river in Sangrur district to prevent breaches.
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Roads damaged by floods would also be promptly repaired, the CM promised, adding that a survey for this purpose was being completed with focus on strengthening the road connecting Moonak to Khanauri via Mandvi.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
At the end of June Punjab water resources minister Chetan Singh Jauramajra also visited various sites and asked &nbsp;officials to fastrack strengthening work of the Tiwana bandh at Ghaggar river.
&nbsp;
The minister also inspected a few villages prone to flooding by the Ghaggar and said water bodies were being cleaned and embankments strengthened.
&nbsp;
Drainage department sources were also quoted by the media outlet as saying that desilting of rivers had begun at some places in the state.
&nbsp;
Repairs were being prioritised at the most vulnerable points first and major drains were being cleared, sources said. These remained blocked and prevented rainwater from draining out, leading to waterlogging in some areas.
&nbsp;
Jouramajra has also said that a fleet of earth-moving machines has been acquired, and these were operating round-the-clock to clear drains, remove silt, and&nbsp; strengthen vulnerable points.
&nbsp;
HARYANA For the first time in its history the Haryana government declared a flood alert last year in July 2023 as incessant rains flooded 1,354 places in 12 districts of the state.
 Ensuring arrangements were in place this year, Minister of State for irrigation and Water Resources, Dr. Abhe Singh Yadav and officials from the Irrigation Department visited several villages in the Ambala and Kurukshetra districts impacted by flooding last year.
&nbsp;
Inspecting the border dam of Tangri river, Yadav also directed officials to get the drains cleaned and widened to ensure drainage of rainwater.
&nbsp;
From identifying the weak points of the border dam near populated areas close to the Tangri River to cleaning of the Markanda River, the minister directed officials to ensure quick completion of all flood control measures.
&nbsp;
The minister also visited Jalbera and Jhansa in Kurukshetra and issued instructions for clean-up of the Markanda River and strengthening of embankments at vulnerable points with sandbags or cement concrete bags.
&nbsp;
Flooding in Kurukshetra District is caused mainly due to the Markanda River, but overflow of water from Tangri River and small nullahs like Rakshi, Chutang, Jodha and Linda in the area also inundates fields and villages.
&nbsp;
Yadav inspected work being done to fortify Damli and Kalsana dams on the Markanda River and directed that all flood prevention work be completed quickly.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
It is to be noted that during the 55th meeting of the Haryana State Drought Relief and Flood Control Board in October 2023, a budget of Rs 1,205.89 crore&nbsp;had been approved. Apart from protection of villages and abadi, the funds will be utilised for procuring of machinery used during flooding and reconstruction of structures to clear drain and ensure uninterrupted flow of drain water.

Ready for rain: Are northern states well prepared?

Television star Hina Khan, who recently revealed her breast cancer diagnosis, has taken a brave step by cutting her hair short after her first chemotherapy session.
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The 36-year-old actress, famous for her role in the TV show &ldquo;Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai,&rdquo; shared an emotional video on Instagram where her mother is seen weeping as the actor chops off her hair.
&nbsp;
Addressing her fans and fellow cancer fighters, Hina wrote, "To all the beautiful people out there, especially women who are fighting the same battle, I know it&rsquo;s hard, I know for most of us, our hair is the crown we never take off. But what if you&rsquo;re facing a battle so tough that you have to lose your hair&mdash;your pride, your crown? If you want to win, you&rsquo;ve got to take some tough decisions. And I choose to win."
&nbsp;
Hina emphasized the importance of making proactive choices in her fight against cancer. "I have decided to give myself every chance possible to win this battle. I choose to let go of my beautiful hair before it starts falling off. I didn&rsquo;t want to endure this mental breakdown for weeks. So, I choose to let go of my crown because I&rsquo;ve realised my real crown is my COURAGE, my STRENGTH, and the love I have for myself."
&nbsp;
Hina hopes her journey will inspire others battling the disease.
&nbsp;
"Hair will grow back, eyebrows will return, scars will fade, but the spirit must remain whole. I am recording my story, my journey, to ensure that my efforts to embrace myself reach everyone out there. If my story can make even one day of this heartwarming yet excruciating experience better for someone, it&rsquo;s worth it."
&nbsp;
She expressed gratitude to her boyfriend, mother, and others who have supported her, referring to them as &lsquo;MY PEOPLE,&rsquo; and asked her fans to pray for her.

Hina Khan cuts hair after chemo, vows to win cancer battle

India's top woman 400m runner, Deepanshi, has been suspended by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) after failing a dope test during the recent National Inter-State Championships, where she secured a silver medal.
&nbsp;
The 21-year-old clocked a personal best of 52.01 seconds, finishing second to Kiran Pahal's 50.92 seconds in the women's 400m final in Panchkula.
&nbsp;
However, an in-competition urine sample taken on June 27, either after the heats or semifinals, revealed the presence of anabolic steroids.
&nbsp;
"Yes, she has failed the dope test conducted during the National Inter-State Championships and has been provisionally suspended," a reliable source told under anonymity.
&nbsp;
This incident marks the first positive dope case from the National Inter-State Championships (June 27-30), the final qualifying event for the Paris Olympics.
Notably, Deepanshi does not train at the national camp.
&nbsp;
The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has a policy to select only campers for the national relay team to maintain close supervision.
&nbsp;
Deepanshi's case appears to validate this policy, as she was the third-fastest woman quarter-miler in the country before her suspension.
&nbsp;
A rising star from Haryana, Deepanshi was the national U20 champion in 2021. Her best senior-level finish was third at the Indian Grand Prix in Thiruvananthapuram in March last year.
&nbsp;
At the National Inter-State, she recorded times of 53.87 in the heats and 52.12 in the semifinals, before further improving to 52.01 in the final.

NADA suspends 400m runner Deepanshi for doping violation

The Calcutta High Court on Thursday said it will hear the defamation suit by West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose against Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on July 10.
&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Bose had filed a defamation case against Banerjee on June 28, a day after she claimed women complained to her that they were afraid to visit the Raj Bhavan.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">His counsel Dhiraj Trivedi mentioned the matter before the court of Justice Krishna Rao, who had adjourned hearing of the suit on Wednesday, for an early hearing date.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">The court said that it will take up the matter for hearing again on July 10.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Noting that the suit was filed on the basis of news reports, Justice Krishna Rao pointed out to Bose&rsquo;s counsel that publications referred to in the suit have not been made party to it.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Justice Rao adjourned the case with the liberty to the petitioner to take appropriate steps in this regard. 
&nbsp;

Kolkata

Cal HC to hear defamation case against Mamata on July 10

Bihar's Bridge Collapse saga

The revival of Exercise MAITREE in Thailand marks a renewed phase of defence cooperation between India and Thailand, aimed at bolstering military interoperability and regional stability through joint training and cultural exchange.
&nbsp;
Commencing in Tak Province, Thailand, the 13th edition of Exercise MAITREE launched with a vibrant opening ceremony, marking its return after a hiatus of four years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The last exercise took place in Umroi, Meghalaya, in 2019.
&nbsp;
The ceremony was graced by Lieutenant General Kittipong Jamsuwan, 3rd Corps Commander of the Thailand Army, and Group Captain Brijesh Paul, Defence Attach&eacute; from the Indian Air Force to Thailand, as chief guests.
&nbsp;
Both leaders highlighted the deep-rooted historical and civilizational ties between their countries, underscoring the exercise's role in strengthening military collaboration.
&nbsp;
Symbolising mutual cooperation, Group Captain Paul handed over the Indian Army contingent's flag to Lieutenant General Jamsuwan, marking the formal commencement of joint training activities.
&nbsp;
The event also featured interactive sessions between the contingents, fostering camaraderie and mutual understanding. A captivating display of Thai martial arts by the Thailand Army troops showcased their cultural heritage and military prowess.
&nbsp;
Exercise MAITREE alternates between India and Thailand, serving as a pivotal platform for sharing experiences, enhancing interoperability, and fortifying bilateral defence relations. This edition aims to build upon past successes, deepening military cooperation and operational synergy.
&nbsp;
The resumption of Exercise MAITREE underscores the commitment of India and Thailand to regional security and stability. Beyond honing tactical skills, the exercise promotes mutual respect and understanding, essential for tackling shared security challenges effectively.
&nbsp;
As the joint exercise progresses, it is poised to significantly strengthen the defence partnership between India and Thailand, paving the way for future collaborative endeavours.

Bangkok

MAITREE exercise returns to boost India-Thailand ties

The Congress today accused Defence Minister Rajnath Singh of telling half-truths in the Lok Sabha after Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi raised the issue of the plight of Agniveers there.
&nbsp;
Addressing a press conference at the party headquarters here today, Chairman of the Ex-Servicemen Department in the AICC Col (Retd) Rohit Chaudhary and Wing Commander (Retd) Anuma Acharya demanded that the government should bring in a white paper about the Agnipath scheme.
&nbsp;
The party reiterated its stand to scrap the Agnipath scheme, as it was against the security interests of the country, besides creating differences and discrimination between the soldiers within the defence services.
&nbsp;
Referring to Rajnath Singh&rsquo;s intervention in the parliament claiming that those Agniveers who die in the line of duty are paid Rs one crore, Col Chaudhary said, he (Singh) did not give the complete picture.
&nbsp;
He said, an Agniveer, if he gets killed in the line of duty, gets Rs 48 lakhs from the insurance, Rs 44 lakhs as ex-gratia, and Rs 8 lakh for battle casualty.
&nbsp;
But, he added, what Singh did not say, was what the regular soldiers get if they get martyred.
&nbsp;
He disclosed that a regular soldier gets about Rs 2.4 crores after 15 years of service and about Rs 2.8 crores after more than 15 years of service.
&nbsp;
Besides, he added, if an Agniveer gets killed on day one of his service, his family, besides Rs one crore, gets salary for four years only and nothing more.
&nbsp;
Compared to that, a regular soldier&rsquo;s family gets about Rs 2.4 crores, full salary for 15 years, and family pension after that. Plus, the family gets all the benefits like healthcare, canteen facility, and much more.
&nbsp;
He said the Agniveers are not granted martyrdom status. He said there are certain benefits a martyr is entitled to, which are denied to Agniveers.
&nbsp;
Col Chaudhary disclosed that there was a decline in recruitment in the defence services after the introduction of the Agnipath scheme, saying during the last four years, there was a shortfall of 3 lakh soldiers.
&nbsp;
He also referred to the operational shortcomings of the Agnipath scheme, saying it does not produce battle-hardened soldiers as they are trained for a short duration of six months only.
&nbsp;
Speaking on the occasion, Wing Commander (Retd) Anuma Acharya condemned the misuse of the social media handles of the defence services for spreading disinformation by the government.
&nbsp;
Referring to the Defence Minister&rsquo;s claim that the Agnipath scheme was introduced after consultations with about 150 organizations, she said, he must come out with details as such schemes are not discussed in public.
&nbsp;
She asked, if the families of the Short Service Commission officers are entitled to various post-retirement benefits, why not the families of the Agniveers.

Defence Min spoke half-truth on Agnipath in LS: Congress

The Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC) on Thursday predicted widespread, moderate to heavy rains with isolated places experiencing very heavy rains till July 12 in the state.
&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">CS Patil, director of India Meteorological Centre in Bengaluru, has said coastal and western ghat regions have received heavy rainfall so far in July, especially Agumbe which registered 34 mm rainfall on July 3 alone.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Meanwhile, Malenadu district, which has been lagging compared to the rainfall it receives this time of the year, finally caught up with its share of rain.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">According to &lsquo;X&rsquo; handle Ghats of Karnataka (@ByTheRiverTunga) which tracks weather from Sringeri to Shimoga, River Tunga is flowing at its highest so far this year. July 3, stated the handle, has been the heaviest day of rain this season for regions in and around Sringeri.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Another 'X' user, @ravikeerthi22, posted at around 5 pm on Thursday that the water level at Mahishi in Shivamogga has raised almost 3m in the last 24 hours, flowing slightly below danger level, but said rainfall has eased around Agumbe-Sringeri area.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Meanwhile, in Udupi district, heavy rains have brought many villages to a standstill, with people from low lying areas being evacuated to higher ground in boats.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Several &lsquo;X&rsquo; users have posted pictures from this region as well. According to Adarsh P Cherugad, who has posted a picture of the overflowing river Suvarna, the flooding water submerged a bridge close to Perdoor.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Uttara Kannada is also receiving heavy rainfall and the Aghanashini river is in full spate, stated many &lsquo;X&rsquo; users.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">According to &lsquo;X&rsquo; user Guruprasad Bhat, vehicular traffic in Kumta Sirsi Road is not possible due to the overflowing Aghanashini River. He has backed his claim with many videos of the region on the social media.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Meanwhile, another &lsquo;X&rsquo; handle, Karnataka Weather, which tracks the state&rsquo;s weather diligently, has posted a 5 pm update for Bengaluru, stating that after a quiet day, clouds are gathering across the north and north west from Gottigere. Some users have reported light rain in Whitefield areas. 
&nbsp;

Bengaluru

Widespread rainfall in K'taka to continue till July 12

Residents of upscale condominiums on&nbsp;M.G.&nbsp;road are up in arms against the Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) for a pavement project,&nbsp;which has turned&nbsp;a busy stretch into a chaotic nightmare.
&nbsp;
The makeover project worth ₹11.3 crore, termed&nbsp;as&nbsp;ill-conceived by the residents, was aimed at beautifying the road but&nbsp;has instead led to a slew of issues, including reduced road width, encroachment, illegal parking, traffic jams, and loss of green cover.
&nbsp;
The plan&nbsp;was initiated&nbsp;to give a 'European look'&nbsp;to the area.
&nbsp;
MG&nbsp;Road, dubbed the city's "mall road",&nbsp;was selected for redevelopment due to its strategic location as a pivotal arterial stretch. The road&nbsp;is flanked&nbsp;by residential societies, metro stations, commercial hubs, and malls, but lacked sufficient infrastructure to support pedestrian movement and cycling, making it an ideal candidate for rejuvenation.
&nbsp;
The newly constructed pavement, double its original size, has become an eyesore, with hawkers, cars, and motorcycles parked haphazardly.&nbsp;The pavement&nbsp;which&nbsp;was&nbsp;constructed&nbsp;for the pedestrian's use,&nbsp;is now&nbsp;being served&nbsp;as an earning platform for the vendors.
&nbsp;
The residents, who met with Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority&nbsp;(GMDA) officials, were&nbsp;left&nbsp;unsatisfied with the response.
&nbsp;
"The CEO and Chief Engineer seemed unconcerned about our concerns," said a resident, adding, "They plan to break the left side of the pavement, forcing pedestrians to cross through&nbsp;traffic,&nbsp;amidst encroachments."
&nbsp;
The residents&nbsp;are calling&nbsp;the project&nbsp;design,&nbsp;full of flaws, claiming it has left them fuming.
&nbsp;
"There's no demarcated area for parking or hawkers. It's a free-for-all, with the walking track likely to be used for parking and vending," said another resident.
&nbsp;
With pictures showing people walking on the road due to the unusable pavement, residents fear the situation will only worsen, specifically in the monsoon.
&nbsp;
"This project is a recipe for disaster, with potential law and order issues. We demand a re-evaluation before it's too late," said a resident.
&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the residents said that plans to alter entry and exit points along MG Road are in place, which they fear will create more chaos and gridlock to already crowded place. With numerous residential complexes, malls, and commercial establishments lining both sides of the road, the narrow service roads are already struggling to accommodate the traffic, a resident said.
&nbsp;
"The proposed changes, critics argue, will only exacerbate the problem, making it difficult for ambulances, school buses, and other essential vehicles to navigate the area. The concerns are particularly pressing for the many senior citizens and children living in residential areas along MG Road, who may be put in harm's way by the anticipated congestion," said another person familiar with the matter.&nbsp;

Gurugram

Gurugram MG road makeover plan turns nightmare for residents

Two officers have been suspended and five others are facing disciplinary action over the renovation of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal&rsquo;s official residence on Flag Staff Road, Civil Lines. The controversy began when the Vigilance Department scrutinised the project's expenditure and procedures last year.
&nbsp;
According to a recent directive from Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena to the CPWD, two Central Public Works Department officers, Executive Engineer Vinay Chaudhary and Assistant Engineer Rajat Kant, have been suspended. Disciplinary measures, ranging from suspension to proceedings, have been recommended against five other officers who are now under CPWD jurisdiction, despite some having retired or transferred out of Delhi.
&nbsp;
This action follows a year-long process that started with show-cause notices issued to all seven officers. The Vigilance Department raised concerns about the expenditure and the procedural steps taken for the renovation, which includes the residence where Kejriwal's family resides alongside his camp office.
&nbsp;
Among those recommended for action are retired officers such as A K Ahuja, former Principal Chief Engineer, and Shibnath Dhara, former Executive Engineer (Central and New Division). They face disciplinary proceedings for alleged 'wasteful expenditure' amounting to approximately Rs 53 crore on the renovation project.
&nbsp;
In response to the allegations, A K Ahuja clarified that he retired before the project began and emphasised that decisions regarding demolition were made by higher authorities, not him.
&nbsp;
The project saw significant expansions and additional expenditures, including ornamental enhancements and the use of expensive materials like Burma teak wood, which raised questions about adherence to established norms and the approval process for structural changes.
&nbsp;
The Vigilance Department's scrutiny revealed that despite categorising the construction as an addition and alteration, a completely new building was erected without proper survey reports or approved building plans. The department has urged the CPWD to promptly submit an 'action taken report' regarding the matter.
&nbsp;
This development underscores ongoing concerns over procedural lapses and overspending in government projects, prompting calls for transparency and accountability in public expenditures.

Officers face action over Kejriwal's house renovation

While the world stays focused on ongoing wars in Gaza and Ukraine, a lot has been developing in Iran, a political storm to put it mildly, and a shift in nuclear policy, even.
&nbsp;
With the nation on the brink of electing its new president, its nuclear intentions have been the subject of keen scrutiny, controversies, and much speculation.
&nbsp;
For decades, Tehran has insisted that its nuclear program is entirely for peaceful purposes.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
However, Iran&rsquo;s latest missile exchanges with Israel have led many nations to question that claim.
&nbsp;
Last month, Iran once again hit world headlines when it reportedly moved closer than ever to having the ability to produce several nuclear weapons.
&nbsp;
IAEA on Iran&rsquo;s nuclear intentions:
&nbsp;
According to reports by the Institute for Science and International Security (ISIS), the country is set to triple, even quadruple its uranium enrichment capacity at Iran&rsquo;s nuclear facility in Fordow.
&nbsp;
Furthermore, the reports said that the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) confirmed that Iran was continuing with efforts to enrich uranium, add to its stockpile, upgrade facilities, and build a heavy water reactor.
&nbsp;
This is not the first time that the UN nuclear watchdog has openly brought attention to Iran's nuclear motives. Last September, IAEA chief Rafael Grossi condemned Iran for obstructing the inspection of Tehran&rsquo;s atomic activities, calling the move to bar the inspectors assigned to inspect the country disproportionate and unprecedented.
&nbsp;
Iran threatens consequences:
&nbsp;
Many interpret Iran&rsquo;s nuclear efforts and recent statements in conjunction. Earlier last week, Iran&rsquo;s mission to the United Nations threatened that if "Israel embarks on full-scale military aggression in Lebanon against Hezbollah, an obliteration war will ensue."
&nbsp;
The verbal aggression came after the Israel Defence Force attacked several Iran-backed terror group Hezbollah&rsquo;s positions amid escalating tensions on the Lebanese border.
&nbsp;
Although a party to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), Iran has been found in non-compliance with the NPT safeguards. In 2020, the Islamic Republic also threatened to quit the key global treaty if European powers brought its nuclear deal breaches to the UN.
&nbsp;
Israel warns about Iran:
&nbsp;
Recently, UN inspectors also alleged that Iran "sanitised the Parchin military site," making it difficult to conduct any investigation of its nuclear program.
&nbsp;
Israel, understandably, has many reasons to lose sleep over all the reported developments concerning Iran. Last week, PM Benjamin Netanyahu warned visiting former US generals that "Iran hopes to topple Middle Eastern regimes such as Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the first step to achieve that is to defeat Hamas."&nbsp;
&nbsp;
During a meeting at Tel Aviv&rsquo;s Defense Ministry headquarters, Netanyahu told the delegation sent by the Jewish Institute for National Security of America that Iran&rsquo;s goal was to have a combined ground offensive from various fronts, including missile bombardment. "The first requirement is to cut that hand, Hamas," he had said.
&nbsp;
Political developments back in Iran:
&nbsp;
On July 5, the Islamic Republic goes to vote for what is believed to be a tight race between lawmaker Massoud Pezeshkian and Saeed Jalili.
&nbsp;
Before this, the country registered among its lowest turnout for the June 28 ballot for a successor to Ebrahim Raisi following his death in a helicopter crash.
&nbsp;
Critics of the government viewed the low turnout as a vote of no confidence in Iran&rsquo;s incumbent regime.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
How much change will the new president usher in Iran? No major policy shifts are expected, considering the all-powerful stature of its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who is widely known to make all major decisions and call the shots concerning home, defense, and geopolitics, including its disputed nuclear program.

Tehran

Nuke speculation intensifies as Iran set for Prez polls

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Russia and Austria from July 8 to 10. His visit to Russia, scheduled for July 8 and 9, will involve attending the 22nd India-Russia annual summit.
&nbsp;
This summit aims to review the extensive and multifaceted ties between the two countries. Following his Russia trip, Modi will travel to Austria, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in 41 years.
&nbsp;
Modi's visit to Russia will be his first in nearly five years, with his last visit being in 2019 for an economic conclave in Vladivostok. The India-Russia annual summit, which alternates between India and Russia, is the highest institutional dialogue mechanism in the strategic partnership between the two nations.
&nbsp;
The last summit was held on December 6, 2021, in New Delhi, where President Vladimir Putin attended. That summit resulted in 28 MoUs and agreements and a joint statement titled "India-Russia Partnership for Peace, Progress and Prosperity."
&nbsp;
The upcoming summit is expected to address a wide range of topics, reflecting the strong and enduring relationship between the two countries. Modi and Putin last met on the margins of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, on September 16, 2022.
&nbsp;
During that meeting, Modi urged Putin to end the conflict in Ukraine, stating, "today's era is not of war." Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Modi has had several telephonic conversations with both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
&nbsp;
India has not condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine, maintaining a stance that the crisis should be resolved through diplomacy and dialogue. Despite Western disquiet and a G7-imposed price cap, India's import of Russian crude oil has significantly increased.
&nbsp;
In December 2022, the G7 and its allies announced a cap on the price of Russian oil at USD 60 a barrel as part of punitive measures against Moscow.
&nbsp;
Following his Russia visit, Modi will travel to Austria on July 9 and 10. This visit will be significant as it will be the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over four decades. In Austria, Modi will meet President Alexander Van der Bellen and hold talks with Chancellor Karl Nehammer.
&nbsp;
They are expected to address business leaders from both India and Austria, highlighting the importance of strengthening economic ties between the two nations.
&nbsp;
Modi will also engage with the Indian community in Moscow and Vienna, emphasising the importance of the Indian diaspora in fostering international relations.
&nbsp;
The visits are expected to bolster India's diplomatic and economic relations with both Russia and Austria, showcasing India's commitment to maintaining strong international partnerships amidst global challenges.

PM Modi set to visit Russia and Austria from July 8 to 10

Amritpal Singh, a jailed radical preacher and newly elected Lok Sabha member, who is being brought to Delhi on parole to take oath as a Lok Sabha member will be allowed to meet his family. However, his movements will be restricted to the city's territorial jurisdiction, and he will not be allowed to leave Delhi.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Singh will be allowed to meet his family during his stay in the capital, but both he and his relatives have been barred from making any statements to the media. These conditions have been outlined in his parole order, issued by the Amritsar district magistrate, where Singh was arrested on April 23 last year.
&nbsp;
During his stay in the national capital, neither Singh nor his relatives or family members can make a statement in any form of media, according to the conditions laid down in his parole order issued by the district magistrate of Punjab's Amritsar from where he was arrested on April 23 last year.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The Khalistani sympathiser, who won the Khadoor Sahib Lok Sabha seat in Punjab in the recent parliamentary elections while being lodged in a jail in Assam's Dibrugarh district, is scheduled to take oath on Friday.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Singh, 31, will be flown in from Assam to Delhi for taking oath and his parole period of four days starts from July 5, sources said on Wednesday.
&nbsp;
The parole order, which mentions 10 conditions, stated that the period of temporary release will include the time taken for the journey from the central jail in Dibrugarh to New Delhi and back.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
He will "not enter the territorial jurisdiction of any place other than New Delhi during the period of temporary release", it stated.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"Amritpal Singh or any of his relatives shall not be permitted to videograph any statement of Amritpal and/or circulate any such statement in any electronic form," according to the order.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
He will also "refrain from doing any action or making any statement that is prejudicial to national security", it stated .&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"The relatives of Amritpal, as defined under Section 2 (c) of the Punjab Detenue (Condition of Detention) Order, 1981, shall be allowed to meet him during the period he is housed in New Delhi," the order stated.
&nbsp;
On deployment of security personnel for Singh, the order stated he will be accompanied by such a number of police personnel as is deemed appropriate by the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Amritsar (Rural).&nbsp;
&nbsp;
These personnel will be there with him from the date and time of his temporary release from the jail, and till the time he returns to the prison for continuation of his period of detention, it stated.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
For the time period, when Singh is present within the precincts of the Parliament, "he shall be accompanied by such number of police personnel, or other security personnel as permitted by the Secretary General, Lok Sabha," the order stated.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
It added that for the period, when Singh is not required in the precincts of the Parliament, he shall be "housed at such place in New Delhi as is deemed appropriate by the SSP, Amritsar (Rural), after taking into account various security considerations".&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
On Wednesday, Amritsar District Magistrate Ghamshyam Thori stated, "Amritpal Singh has been granted parole for up to four days or less beginning July 5 with certain conditions that have been communicated to jail superintendent, Dibrugarh."&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Singh, who heads the "Waris Punjab De" outfit and styled himself after slain Khalistani militant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, was jailed along with nine of his associates under the National Security Act.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
He was arrested in Moga's Rode village after he and his supporters on February 23 barged into the Ajnala police station breaking barricades, brandishing swords and guns, and clashed with police personnel in an attempt to free one of his aides from custody.&nbsp;

Amritpal allowed to meet family under tight security

Schools and colleges in Hyderabad have announced a holiday tomorrow. This is owing to the Bharat Bandh call given by the Students Federation of India (SFI) on Thursday, July 4.
&nbsp;
Student unions across the country have been pressing for a re-examination of NEET-UG candidates amid a row over its results and an alleged paper leak.
&nbsp;
Several schools and colleges across Hyderabad have notified students of the closure of schools as part of the call for bandh via WhatsApp notifications and circulars, while a few are yet to make the announcement.
&nbsp;
A majority of colleges in the city have chosen to switch to online mode to ensure that academics are not disrupted.
&nbsp;
National leaders of student groups, SFI and Progressive Democratic Students Union (PDSU), in Hyderabad on Tuesday, had called for a bandh of schools and colleges.
&nbsp;
SFI is calling for an educational institution bandh to protest political involvement in premier institutions of higher learning.
&nbsp;
They also seek the withdrawal of illegal cases registered against the students and student leaders.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
They alleged that the results of the NEET exam were manipulated and demanded its cancellation and a re-examination, expressing concern that the future of 24 lakh aspirants was being meddled with.
&nbsp;
The leaders requested parents to participate in their agitation to ensure a successful school and college bandh across Hyderabad and other parts of Telangana and urged parents to persuade schools and colleges to declare a holiday.
&nbsp;

Hyderabad

Schools, colleges in T'gana declare bandh over NEET issue

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday raised the issue of terrorism as a major concern for member states at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit and said terrorism in its all forms should be tackled through joint efforts.
&nbsp;
Shahbaz, who arrived in Kazakhstan&rsquo;s capital of Astana on Wednesday for a two-day official visit, represented Pakistan at the SCO meeting where leaders and diplomats from countries including China, India, Turkiye, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Kyrgyzstan have gathered to discuss economic and security cooperation.
&nbsp;
The prime minister, during his address, emphasised the importance of maintaining peace in the region as a precondition for economic development and called for &ldquo;meaningful&rdquo; engagement with the Afghan Taliban government, Dawn News reported.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;Achieving lasting peace in Afghanistan is a lynchpin to this common objective,&rdquo; he said, adding that the international community "meaningfully engage with the Afghan government to meet their genuine economic and development needs&rdquo;.
&nbsp;
Sharif also said the Afghan Taliban must also &ldquo;take concrete measures&rdquo; to ensure its soil is not used for terrorism against any other state.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;Terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including state terrorism, must be condemned in clear and unambiguous terms,&rdquo; the premier stressed, adding that there was &ldquo;no justification for killing innocent people or using the bogey of terrorism&rdquo; for political point-scoring.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;We must ensure respect for the universally recognised principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and people's fundamental right to self-determination,&rdquo; he said, adding the UNSC resolutions offer a workable framework to resolve long-standing disputes, including those in our region, Sharif said, in a veiled reference to the Kashmir issue.
&nbsp;
Regarding Pakistan&rsquo;s role in regional trade connectivity, the premier said the country&rsquo;s location made it an &ldquo;ideal trade conduit&rdquo; for the region and added that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) supplemented &ldquo;SCO&rsquo;s vision of regional connectivity and economic interaction&rdquo;.
&nbsp;
Shehbaz also advocated for the promotion &ldquo;of national currencies for mutual settlements within the region&rdquo; to avoid &ldquo;global financial shocks&rdquo;.
He said alternative funding mechanisms would &ldquo;give impetus to different development projects in the SCO region&rdquo;.
&nbsp;
The prime minister said Pakistan would do &ldquo;its utmost to provide impetus to collective efforts to raise living standards in the SCO region&rdquo; while talking about the rise in political and military conflicts across the globe and consequent hike in food and fuel prices, which have &ldquo;seriously affected members&rsquo; ability to address poverty&rdquo;.
&nbsp;
The premier also emphasised the need to promote the use of national currencies for mutual settlement within the SCO region and said the move could help avoid international financial shocks.
&nbsp;
He said Pakistan supported the proposal to create an SCO alternative development funding mechanism to give the needed impetus to various stalled development initiatives.
&nbsp;
He also touched on the topic of globalisation and highlighted that leaders had the responsibility to rise above partisan geopolitics and join hands to secure a prosperous future for our people.
&nbsp;
Welcoming the SCO agreement on environment protection, Shehbaz said Pakistan remains committed to working for a sustainable and nature-positive world.
&nbsp;
The Prime Minister also urged the SCO to denounce Israel's actions in Gaza and call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire leading to the implementation of the two-state solution.
&nbsp;
He also welcomed the inclusion of Belarus as a full SCO member state and congratulated President Xi Jinping on assuming the Chair of SCO for the year 2024-25.
&nbsp;
He also said Pakistan was looking forward to hosting the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting in Islamabad in October this year.
&nbsp;
Pakistan and India became a member of SCO in June 2017 at a summit in Kazakhstan.

Pak PM raises Kashmir issue at SCO, calls for UNSC resolve

Champai Soren, the veteran leader of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), made headlines with his dramatic entry and exit as the Chief Minister of Jharkhand, marking a turbulent chapter in the state's political landscape.
&nbsp;
Hailing from a humble background in Jharkhand&rsquo;s Saraikela-Kharsawan district, Champai ascended to the chief ministerial role on February 2, stepping in for his predecessor Hemant Soren, who resigned shortly before his arrest in a money laundering case by the ED.
&nbsp;
His tenure, though brief, saw significant strides in governance, including the implementation of financial assistance schemes for women and enhanced healthcare coverage for millions across the state.
&nbsp;
These initiatives pointed to Champai's commitment to socio-economic welfare during his five-month term.
&nbsp;
Nicknamed "Jharkhand's Tiger" for his pivotal role in the statehood movement of the 1990s, Champai has long been a prominent figure in Jharkhand's political arena.
&nbsp;
His journey began as an independent MLA in 1991, followed by successful electoral battles under the JMM banner over the years.
&nbsp;
Despite electoral ups and downs, Champai&rsquo;s resilience and connection with grassroots issues have cemented his reputation among voters.
&nbsp;
He served as a cabinet minister in the BJP government and later played crucial roles in Hemant Soren&rsquo;s administrations, focusing on food security and transport.
&nbsp;
Personal life-wise, Champai Soren, married early in life, is a father of four sons and three daughters, balancing family responsibilities alongside his political career.

Ranchi

Champai Soren's turbulent stint as Jharkhand CM

Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) executive president Hemant Soren has once again taken the oath as the Chief Minister of Jharkhand. On Thursday, Jharkhand Governor CP Radhakrishnan administered the oath of office and secrecy to Soren, marking his return to the state's highest office.
&nbsp;
This event comes shortly after Soren's release on bail from Birsa Munda Jail on June 28, following nearly five months of incarceration related to a land scam case.
&nbsp;
Hemant Soren&rsquo;s return to power was set in motion when Champai Soren, who had been serving as the Chief Minister for just five months, stepped down from his position.
&nbsp;
Champai Soren's resignation paved the way for Hemant Soren to be invited by the Governor to form the government. Champai Soren had taken office on February 2 but decided to step down, allowing for the reestablishment of Hemant Soren&rsquo;s leadership.
&nbsp;
Hemant Soren&rsquo;s political journey has been marked by significant events, including his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in January. The arrest was linked to charges of a land scam and money laundering, prompting Soren to resign from his position as Chief Minister on January 31. However, the Jharkhand High Court granted him bail on June 28, leading to his release and subsequent return to political leadership.
&nbsp;
In the backdrop of these events, Hemant Soren&rsquo;s initial tenure as Chief Minister began on December 29, 2019. This period was described as &lsquo;Sankalp Diwas,&rsquo; symbolising the start of a new era for Jharkhand.
&nbsp;
The JMM had contested the 2019 Assembly elections in alliance with the Congress party and Lalu Prasad&rsquo;s Rashtriya Janta Dal (RJD), securing a comfortable majority with forty-seven seats in the 81-member assembly. The JMM won 30 seats, while Congress and RJD secured 16 and one seat respectively.
&nbsp;
The political dynamics in Jharkhand have been significantly influenced by Hemant Soren&rsquo;s leadership. His reappointment as Chief Minister underscores the confidence and support he continues to command within his party and among the coalition partners. The state has witnessed a series of political shifts and turns, particularly with the allegations and subsequent legal battles faced by Soren.
&nbsp;
Soren&rsquo;s recent release from jail and immediate return to the Chief Minister&rsquo;s office highlight the volatile nature of Jharkhand&rsquo;s political landscape. The series of events leading up to his reappointment illustrate the complex interplay of legal, political, and personal challenges that have defined his career.
&nbsp;
As Hemant Soren resumes his duties as the Chief Minister, his leadership will likely focus on addressing the issues that have plagued the state, including allegations of corruption and the need for robust governance.
&nbsp;
The political stability brought by his return is expected to have a significant impact on Jharkhand's future, both in terms of administrative policies and the broader socio-political environment.

Hemant Soren takes oath as Jharkhand Chief Minister

The two-week-long India-Mongolia joint military exercise, 'Nomadic Elephant', commenced on Wednesday at Umroi in Meghalaya, focusing on enhancing military capabilities for counter-insurgency operations in semi-urban and mountainous terrains.
&nbsp;
Led by a Sikkim Scouts Battalion and personnel from other Indian services, the 16th edition of the exercise includes a 45-member Indian contingent.
&nbsp;
The Mongolian contingent, comprising personnel from the 150 Quick Reaction Force Battalion, is also participating.
&nbsp;
'Nomadic Elephant' is an annual event alternately hosted in India and Mongolia, with the previous edition held in Mongolia in July 2023.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Exercise&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NomadicElephant_2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NomadicElephant_2024</a> The 16th edition of Joint Military Exercise <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NomadicElephant?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NomadicElephant</a> between <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MongolianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MongolianArmy</a> commenced with the opening ceremony, which was attended by Mr Dambajavyn Ganbold, Ambassador of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mongolia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mongolia</a> to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> and Maj Gen Prasanna Joshi, GOC 51&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/MemoFd2LD8">pic.twitter.com/MemoFd2LD8</a>
&mdash; ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) <a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi/status/1808450357221281987?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
The opening ceremony saw the presence of Mongolian Ambassador to India, Dambajavyn Ganbold, and Major General Prasanna Joshi, General Officer Commanding 51 Sub Area of the Indian Army.
&nbsp;
According to Defence PRO Lt Col Mahendra Rawat, the exercise aims to bolster both nations' abilities to conduct counter-insurgency operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations Mandate.
&nbsp;
Focused on tactical operations in challenging terrains, the joint exercise will conclude on July 16, marking another milestone in the defence cooperation between India and Mongolia.

Shillong

India, Mongolia begin 'Nomadic Elephant' military exercise

The Air India special chartered flight 'AIC24WC', transporting India's triumphant T20 World Cup team, has garnered global acclaim as the most-tracked flight on Flightradar24.
 Flightradar24 is an Internet-based service that shows real-time aircraft flight tracking information on a map.
&nbsp;
It includes flight tracking information, origins and destinations, flight numbers, aircraft types, positions, altitudes, headings and speeds.&nbsp;
Departing from Barbados, the flight has become a symbol of excitement for fans eagerly anticipating the return of their cricketing heroes.
&nbsp;
On X (formerly Twitter), Flightradar24 announced, "Our most tracked flight right now - T20 World Cup champions India on their way home."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Our most tracked flight right now &mdash; 🏏 T20 World Cup champions India on their way home. <a href="https://t.co/CxoSyk3jU8">https://t.co/CxoSyk3jU8</a> <a href="https://t.co/1e93hdwv4a">pic.twitter.com/1e93hdwv4a</a>
&mdash; Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) <a href="https://twitter.com/flightradar24/status/1808490942690709846?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
YouTube personality Mufaddal Vohra also shared updates, noting that 4,032 users were actively monitoring the flight, highlighting the immense public interest in the team's journey.
&nbsp;
The call sign 'AIC24WC' of the flight goes beyond a routine journey; it signifies India's historic World Cup victory ('24WC' for T20 World Cup 2024), reflecting the nation's pride in its cricketing achievement.
&nbsp;
After landing in New Delhi early Thursday morning, the team first meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and are presently heading to Mumbai on another chartered flight.
&nbsp;
<div class="flex flex-grow flex-col max-w-full">
<div class="min-h-[20px] text-message flex flex-col items-start whitespace-pre-wrap break-words [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5 juice:w-full juice:items-end overflow-x-auto gap-2" dir="auto" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="b521261c-1f41-46ee-8e0f-95c7868c36f8">
<div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 juice:empty:hidden juice:first:pt-[3px]">
<div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light">
"In another update on 'X', the flight-tracking portal announced: 'India's cricket team is airborne once more, reclaiming the top spot on Flightradar24.'"
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
India's cricket team are once again in the air and at #1 on Flightradar24. Follow <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VTI1845?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VTI1845</a> here. <a href="https://t.co/zfD7XXkspg">https://t.co/zfD7XXkspg</a> <a href="https://t.co/5JktSxMNGA">pic.twitter.com/5JktSxMNGA</a>
&mdash; Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) <a href="https://twitter.com/flightradar24/status/1808809126694166717?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
In Delhi, the players were honored by the Prime Minister and they shared a breakfast with him as part of the celebrations.
&nbsp;
The festivities will culminate with an open-top bus parade from NCPA, Nariman Point, to Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, where BCCI Secretary Jay Shah will present the team with the prestigious Rs 125 crore prize money for their outstanding performance.

AI flight carrying T20 champs 'most' tracked flight globally

The Odisha government has announced a plan to plant nearly 19 lakh palm trees this fiscal year to protect its citizens from lightning strikes.
&nbsp;
Authorities have asked people to obtain permission before cutting down a palm tree.
&nbsp;
Principal chief conservator of forest, Debidutta Biswal, underscored the life-saving role of palm trees, stating: &ldquo;As the tallest trees in their localities, palm trees act as excellent lightning arrestors, effectively arresting lightning and saving lives. The decision to plant these trees is a crucial step in reducing the number of lightning-related deaths.&rdquo;
&nbsp;
In the last 11 years, 3,790 people have been killed by lightning strikes in Odisha. Ninety per cent of the victims are from the rural pockets of the state.
&nbsp;
Biswal said previously there was no barrier to cutting palm trees. &ldquo;However, we have found that because of the lack of restrictions, there was a massive cutting of palm trees, leading to deforestation. Now, we want to regulate it. One should obtain permission from the forest department to cut a palm tree, even if they own it. The legal provision for cutting sal and teak trees will apply to palm trees. It will attract fines also.&rdquo;
&nbsp;
He said: &ldquo;According to the plan, we will go for a massive palm tree plantation, and around 19 lakh trees will be planted. Around&nbsp;Rs 7.5 crore will be spent on this account. The Special Relief Commission (SRC) has given its nod to the proposal. Four palm trees will be planted on the premises of each forest block in the state.&rdquo;
&nbsp;
The state government has collaborated with the Indian Institute of Tropical Management (IITM), Pune, to obtain information about lightning strikes. &ldquo;Based on the IITM Pune&rsquo;s report, we released the data about the lightning strike in Odisha. The entire Odisha has been covered with the earth network system. Besides, IITM Pune has its own network.&rdquo;
&nbsp;
Odisha has also collaborated with the US-based Earth Networks to get early warnings for lightning. 
&nbsp;

Bhubaneswar

Lightning deaths in Odisha coax govt to plant Palm trees

The Government Railway Police (GRP), deployed across six police stations in Tripura, has detained 434 illegal immigrants, including Bangladeshi nationals and Rohingya, over the past 1.5 years for illegally crossing the international border.
&nbsp;
An official speaking on condition of anonymity disclosed that 294 immigrants were arrested in 2023, with 76 identified as Rohingyas and the remainder as Bangladeshi nationals.
&nbsp;
Since January 2024, an additional 140 immigrants have been apprehended, with only three Rohingyas among them.
&nbsp;
Tripura shares an 856 km long international border with Bangladesh, facilitating the influx of illegal immigrants who often rely on middlemen, known as touts, for assistance in crossing.
&nbsp;
"In addition to immigrants, we arrested 51 Indian touts last year and 26 this year so far," the official stated, noting their role in facilitating illegal crossings.
&nbsp;
The number of cases related to these detentions totaled 75 last year and has reached 28 this year, making a cumulative 103 cases.
&nbsp;
Illegal immigrants typically use Agartala Railway Station to board express trains bound for major cities across India, where they seek employment in various sectors such as rag picking, masonry, and construction.
&nbsp;
"Many receive initial support from relatives already residing in urban areas," the official added.
&nbsp;
Alongside efforts to curb illegal immigration, the Tripura GRP has also intensified efforts against drug trafficking. In 2023, they apprehended 239 drug peddlers and seized significant quantities of narcotics including over 2,300 kg of ganja, 8,000 bottles of banned cough syrup, and 314 grams of heroin.
&nbsp;
In 2024, 150 drug peddlers have been arrested so far, with seizures continuing.
&nbsp;
"Recently, arrests were made under the Arms Act when three individuals were found carrying a pistol on a train," the official concluded, highlighting ongoing efforts to maintain law and order amidst multiple challenges.

Agartala

Tripura GRP detains 434 B'deshi infiltrators in 18 months

Jony Ive, the renowned former chief design officer at Apple, recently shared his experiences of working under the leadership of Steve Jobs, calling it the most extraordinary time of his life.
&nbsp;
"Management is about persuading people to do things they do not want to do, while leadership is about inspiring people to do things they never thought they could," Jobs once said a quote that evoked his influential role at Apple.
&nbsp;
Ive, who joined Apple at the young age of 25, played a pivotal role in designing iconic products like the MacBook, iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and AirPods. Alongside Jobs, he transformed Apple from a struggling company into a global leader in innovation and design. Ive left Apple in 2019 to start his own design firm, LoveFrom, based in San Francisco.
&nbsp;
In a recent podcast interview on "Life in Seven Songs," Ive reflected on his career at Apple, highlighting the fulfillment he found in working with Jobs. Despite starting at Apple during Jobs' absence, their meeting five years later sparked a powerful creative synergy.
&nbsp;
Ive described their collaboration from 1997 to 2011 as "the most joyful and extraordinary 15 years of his life." He noted that Jobs' return brought a new focus and transparency to Apple's creative process.
&nbsp;
Ive praised Jobs' remarkable ability to articulate complex ideas and feelings effortlessly, which significantly shaped Apple's design philosophy. "Steve had an uncanny ability to describe complex feelings and ideas effortlessly," Ive recalled.

California

Jony Ive reflects on joyful years with Steve Jobs

In a positive session for the Indian stock market, both the Sensex and Nifty indices ended the day in green territory.
&nbsp;
The Sensex closed above the 80,000-mark, finishing at 80,049.67 points, up by 0.08%. Similarly, the Nifty closed at 24,302.15 points, marking an increase of 0.06%.
&nbsp;
Among broad market indices, all ended in green except for India VIX and Smallcap 50, which closed in red.
&nbsp;
In corporate news, the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) announced to the NSE that it has acquired a 2.68% stake in IDFC First Bank through a private placement, thereby increasing its stake in the private bank. LIC's stock closed at ₹1,010.34, up by 2.24%.
&nbsp;
Top gainers of the day included Tata Motors, HCL Tech, ICICI Bank, Sun Pharma and TCS. On the flip side, the day's laggards were HDFC Bank, Bajaj Finance, Adani Entertainment, Wipro, and Tech Mahindra.
&nbsp;
Sectoral indices showed a mixed performance. Financial services, FMCG, media, and metal ended the day in red.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Conversely, the pharma sector gained 1.39%, healthcare increased by 1.28%, and mid-small healthcare rose by 1.25%, ending the day in green.
&nbsp;

LIC acquires IDFC first stake, Sensex hits 80,000

The heavy rains did not waver the trust of devotees, as a contingent of over 5,600 pilgrims set off from Jammu towards the twin basecamps, Baltal and Palagam, of the Amarnath cave shrine on Thursday, the officials said.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
More than 30,000 devotees offered prayers to the naturally formed ice lingam on Wednesday alone, bringing the total number of pilgrims to over one lakh, they said.
&nbsp;
The seventh batch of pilgrims included 4,487 men, 1,011 women, 10 children, and 188 &lsquo;sadhus&rsquo; and &lsquo;sadhvis&rsquo; who departed at 3.13 am in 219 vehicles, under the escort of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), from the Bhagwati Nagar base camp, the officials said.
&nbsp;
Of these, 3,668 pilgrims opted for the traditional 48 km Pahalgam route, while 2,028 chose the shorter but steeper 14 km Baltal route, they said.
&nbsp;
Since June 28, when Lt Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the first batch, a total of 37, 522 pilgrims have left the Jammu base camp for the yatra.
&nbsp;
The 52-day yatra officially commenced on June 29 from the twin basecamps in Kashmir and will conclude on August 19. Last year, more than 4.5 lakh pilgrims offered prayers at the cave shrine, located at an elevation of 3,880 metres.&nbsp;

Unfazed by rains, 5,600 more pilgrims begin Amarnath yatra

At least six 'sevadars', which includes two women, have been arrested by the Uttar Pradesh police on Thursday, in connection with the Hathras stampede that killed 121 people. 
&nbsp;
The only accused named in the FIR is at large while preacher Surajpal alias Narayan Sakar Hari alias Bhole Baba will be questioned if required during the investigation, a senior officer said. 
&nbsp;
"All six persons who have been arrested worked as sevadars (volunteers) at the 'Satsang'," Inspector General of Police (Aligarh Range) Shalabh Mathur told reporters here.
&nbsp;
"A reward of Rs 1 lakh will be announced soon and a non-bailable warrant (NBW) will also be issued against key accused Devprakash Madhukar," Mathura said. 
&nbsp;
The preacher Surajpal was not mentioned as accused in the FIR lodged at the local Sikandra Rau police station on Tuesday after the stampede at Phulrai village that left 121 people dead in its wake.

Hathras

Six arrested over Hathras stampede that killed 121

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a powerful address at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, underscored the urgent need for the international community to isolate and expose countries that harbour terrorists.
&nbsp;
Speaking on behalf of PM Modi, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar conveyed the Indian Prime Minister's firm stance against terrorism and the necessity for global cooperation to combat this menace.
&nbsp;
The remarks were made during the SCO Summit held under Kazakhstan&rsquo;s Presidency in Astana. PM Modi highlighted that terrorism in any form is inexcusable and called for collective action to address the threats posed by cross-border terrorism.
&nbsp;
Emphasising the original goals of the SCO, Modi stressed the importance of mutual respect for sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. He asserted that terrorism, if left unchecked, could become a significant threat to regional and global peace.
&nbsp;
PM Modi articulated that countries providing safe havens and support to terrorists must be exposed and isolated. He called for decisive actions to counter terrorism financing and recruitment and highlighted the importance of preventing radicalization among youth.
&nbsp;
Modi referenced a Joint Statement issued during India&rsquo;s previous SCO Presidency, which underlined the shared commitment of member states to combat terrorism.
&nbsp;
Climate change was another key issue addressed by PM Modi. He noted that the SCO member states are working towards reducing emissions, transitioning to alternative fuels, adopting electric vehicles, and building climate-resilient infrastructure.
&nbsp;
He mentioned the approval of a Joint Statement on emerging fuels and a Concept Paper on decarbonization in the transportation sector during India&rsquo;s SCO presidency.
&nbsp;
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, ongoing conflicts, rising tensions, and increasing global hotspots. He pointed out that these events have strained international relations and global economic growth, exacerbating issues stemming from globalisation. Modi emphasised the need for the SCO to find common ground and mitigate the consequences of these developments.
&nbsp;
Recalling India's membership in the SCO since 2017 under Kazakhstan&rsquo;s Presidency, PM Modi expressed appreciation for the role the organisation plays in India&rsquo;s foreign policy.
&nbsp;
He noted that India has hosted significant SCO meetings, including the Council of Heads of Government Meeting in 2020 and the Council of Heads of State Meeting in 2023.
&nbsp;
PM Modi congratulated Iran for participating in the SCO Summit as a member and extended condolences over the demise of former Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and others in a helicopter crash. He also congratulated Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and welcomed Belarus as the new member of the SCO.
&nbsp;
The SCO Summit, attended by leaders from member states including India, China, Russia, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, aims to enhance economic and security cooperation among its members. Founded in 2001, the SCO continues to play a crucial role in addressing regional security and economic challenges.
&nbsp;
The summit highlighted the importance of collective efforts in addressing terrorism, climate change, and global tensions, reaffirming the SCO&rsquo;s commitment to fostering peace, security, and economic stability in the region.
&nbsp;
PM Modi's call for action against terrorism and his emphasis on climate change underscore India's proactive approach in addressing global challenges through multilateral cooperation.

PM Modi urges global action against terror at SCO

The flood situation in Assam has deteriorated further, impacting over 16.70 lakh people across 29 districts as major rivers continue to overflow above the danger level.
&nbsp;
An official bulletin on Thursday reported widespread inundation and issued an alert in Kamrup (Metro) district with the Brahmaputra, Digaru, and Kollong rivers surpassing the red mark.
&nbsp;
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is scheduled to visit flood-affected areas in Maligaon, Pandu Port, and Temple Ghat in Guwahati Metropolitan area on Thursday to assess the situation.
&nbsp;
Sarma chaired a meeting with all District Commissioners late on Wednesday night, directing them to be generous in granting relief, complete rehabilitation claims before August 15, and provide accurate information to headquarters to ensure adequate relief.
&nbsp;
Cabinet ministers will camp in flood-affected districts for the next three days from Thursday, coordinating relief efforts and support.
&nbsp;
The death toll from this year's flood, landslides, and storms has risen to 56, with three others reported missing. Severely affected districts include Barpeta, Biswanath, Cachar, Charaideo, Chirang, Darrang, Dhemaji, Dhubri, Dibrugarh, Goalpara, Golaghat, Hailakandi, Hojai, Jorhat, Kamrup, Kamrup Metropolitan, East Karbi Anglong, West Karbi Anglong, Karimganj, Lakhimpur, Majuli, Morigaon, Nagaon, Nalbari, Sivasagar, Sonitpur, and Tinsukia.
&nbsp;
Dhubri is the worst-hit district with over 2.23 lakh people affected, followed by Darrang with nearly 1.84 lakh and Lakhimpur with over 1.66 lakh residents suffering due to floodwaters.
&nbsp;
The Brahmaputra river is flowing above danger levels at Nimatighat, Tezpur, Guwahati, Goalpara, and Dhubri.
&nbsp;
Meanwhile, in Manipur, at least two people have died after drowning in the Senapati River.
&nbsp;
The state government has announced the closure of schools until July 4 due to the flood situation.
&nbsp;
The River Imphal breached its embankment at Singjamei Oinam Thingel in Imphal West, and the River Kongba overflowed at Kongba Irong and parts of Keirao in Imphal East.
&nbsp;
The breaching of these embankments has necessitated the evacuation of over 2,000 residents.

Guwahati

Death toll in Assam floods rise to 56, 17 lakhs affected

In a significant move, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has announced the continuation of the Free Sand Scheme that he had implemented five years ago during the last Telugu Desam Party government.
&nbsp;
A decision has been made to resume the free sand distribution, and the process will be set in motion in the next 10 to 15 days.
&nbsp;
The Chief Minister directed state mines minister Kollu Ravindra to ensure smooth implementation of the scheme.
&nbsp;
Minister for Mines and Geology Kollu Ravindra has said that the government will soon come up with a free sand policy in three months to help revive the construction sector thereby providing livelihood to lakhs of workers.
&nbsp;
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu was personally looking into the matter as taking sand within the reach of the common people was crucial for the economy.
&nbsp;
He instructed the officials concerned to frame fool proof guidelines for implementing the policy effectively.
&nbsp;
Stock points which have permissions and also the illegal ones would be identified in the next fortnight for distributing sand free of cost to the public, the Minister said.
&nbsp;
Addressing media persons at the Secretariat on Wednesday, Ravindra said the previous government&rsquo;s sand policy rendered a huge number of workers dependent on 40 trades in the construction sector jobless.
&nbsp;
Sand was sold by private agencies without any control in the last five years. The proposed free sand policy would be helpful to workers and would make construction affordable for the people, he asserted.
&nbsp;
Ravindra said sand mining could not be done before September due to the monsoon and it had been estimated that one crore tonnes of sand would be required in the next three months.
&nbsp;
The sand transportation charges would be regulated so that they would not be burdensome, and steps would be taken to curb black marketing, Ravindra added.
&nbsp;

Amaravati

AP govt contemplates on reviving free sand scheme

As the Monsoon Session of the Parliament gears up to begin on July 22, the nation eagerly awaits the presentation of the Union Budget 2024 by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
&nbsp;
This event is more than just a routine fiscal exercise, it marks a historic occasion as Sitharaman becomes the first finance minister to present seven consecutive Union Budgets.
&nbsp;
Sitharaman's interim budget earlier this year, presented on February 1, was a precursor to the more comprehensive plans expected in the full budget to be announced this July.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Focused on women, the poor, youth, and farmers, it provided a snapshot of the government's priorities. However, the real test lies ahead, as the nation looks for substantive policies that will drive growth, create jobs, and ensure sustainable development.
&nbsp;
Taxation Reforms
&nbsp;
The interim budget's emphasis on streamlining taxation is commendable. By scrapping certain categories of outstanding direct tax demands, relief was provided to nearly one crore taxpayers.
&nbsp;
This move was aimed to simplify the tax system and promote economic activity. However, the salaried class, which often bears the brunt of tax policies, still awaits significant relief.
&nbsp;
The upcoming budget must address this imbalance for a more equitable tax regime.
&nbsp;
Agriculture
&nbsp;
Sitharaman's focus on agriculture, particularly through investments in post-harvest activities and modern supply chains, is crucial. The term "Annadata" featured prominently in her speech highlighted the importance of farmers in the nation's economy. I
&nbsp;
Initiatives aimed at dairy farmers and fisheries are steps in the right direction, but the sector needs more than just increased spending.
&nbsp;
Women Empowerment
&nbsp;
The interim budget's emphasis on women's empowerment, through schemes like "Lakhpati Didi" and healthcare coverage for Asha and Anganwadi workers, signals a commitment to enhancing the socio-economic status of women.
&nbsp;
The government needs to ensure that these schemes are effectively implemented and reach the intended beneficiaries.
&nbsp;
Employment and Skill Development
&nbsp;
Job creation remains one of the most critical challenges. The allocation of significant funds for research, innovation, and infrastructure is a positive step, but the real impact will depend on effective implementation and monitoring.
&nbsp;
Industry leaders like Jasvinder Bedi and Ramesh Alluri Reddy have rightly pointed out the need for a focus on skill development and formal job creation.
&nbsp;
The staffing industry plays a vital role in this regard and deserves official recognition and support.
&nbsp;
The upcoming budget must prioritize initiatives that bridge the skill gap and create a workforce ready for the demands of the modern economy.
&nbsp;
Sitharaman's interim budget speech was replete with references to "development" and "Viksit Bharat 2047," reflecting the government's ambitious vision for a developed India by 2047.
&nbsp;
This vision requires more than just rhetoric, it demands concrete policies, robust implementation, and a relentless focus on inclusive growth.
&nbsp;
The full budget presents an opportunity to lay down a detailed roadmap that addresses the immediate economic challenges while setting the stage for long-term prosperity.
&nbsp;

A budget for all: What to expect from Sitharaman's address

If you&rsquo;re looking to escape the Australian winter for your next holiday, don&rsquo;t forget to carry your shield against the mosquitoes, since where there&rsquo;s warmth, there will also be mosquitoes.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
In turn, tropical destinations can be hot spots for mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue. In fact, Australian health authorities have warned travellers to Bali to be aware of the risk of dengue, with cases surging in the region. 
&nbsp;
How to protect yourself and your family on holidays? 
&nbsp;
What is dengue? 
&nbsp;
Dengue virus infection (commonly known as dengue fever, or just dengue) is caused by viruses spread by the bite of a mosquito. The mosquito species that typically transmit dengue are Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. 
&nbsp;
There are four strains of dengue virus. Each has the potential to cause illness that can range from mild to severe and potentially life threatening.
Symptoms typically include rash, fever, chills, headache, muscle and joint pain, and fatigue. People also often report abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. 
&nbsp;
While infection with just one of these viruses can make you sick, subsequent exposure to other strains can have more serious health implications. In these cases, symptoms can also include the presence of blood in vomit, bleeding gums and breathing difficulties. 
&nbsp;
Dengue infection must be confirmed via a blood test, but there are no specific treatments. Most people will recover on their own however staying hydrated is crucial and pain relief can help with symptoms. If more severe illness occurs, seek urgent medical care. 
&nbsp;
Are travellers at risk? The disease is now endemic in around 100 countries and an estimated 4 billion people are considered at risk. Asian countries represent around 70 per cent of the global disease burden. Even Europe is at risk. 
&nbsp;
One of the worst years on record was 2023, but the burden of dengue continues to grow. In the first four months of 2024, Indonesia reported three times as many cases of dengue compared to the same period in 2023. 
&nbsp;
Dengue is not a new risk to Australian travellers. Before COVID disrupted international travel, the number of Australians returning from tropical destinations with dengue was steadily increasing. 
&nbsp;
For example, between 2010 and 2016, there was an average annual increase of 22 per cent of travellers returning to Victoria with dengue. Almost half of these people contracted the illness in Indonesia. Bali is well documented as posing a risk of dengue to travellers. 
&nbsp;
International travel restrictions due to COVID abruptly stopped this trend. But now Australians are again embracing international travel, cases are rising once more. 
&nbsp;
Bali isn&rsquo;t the only destination with a surge in dengue, but we know it&rsquo;s a popular holiday destination for Australian travellers. There&rsquo;s little doubt plenty of families will be heading to Bali these school holidays. 
&nbsp;
How about the risk in Australia? Not all mosquitoes can spread dengue viruses. This is why the risk is different in Bali and other tropical regions compared to Australia. 
&nbsp;
Although there are more than 40 Australian mosquito species known or suspected to be transmitting local pathogens, such as Ross River virus, Australia is generally free of local dengue risk due to the limited spread of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. 
&nbsp;
While Aedes aegypti is found in parts of Queensland, thanks to interventions by the World Mosquito Programme and local authorities dengue risk is low. These interventions include the release of laboratory-bred mosquitoes that prevent mosquitoes in the environment spreading viruses, as well as community education. But local cases occasionally occur. 
&nbsp;
Aedes albopictus is not currently found on the Australian mainland but is present in the islands of the Torres Strait. A dengue outbreak has occurred there this year. 
&nbsp;
Keep mozzies away during the day, not just at night While there is a vaccine available, it&rsquo;s not recommended for short-term travellers. There are strict eligibility criteria for its use, so speak to a health professional for advice. 
&nbsp;
For the majority of travellers, preventing mosquito bites is the only way to prevent disease.
&nbsp;
But there are differences in the behaviour of dengue mosquitoes that mean the normal measures to avoid mosquito bites may not be as effective.
&nbsp;
During the Australian summer, mosquitoes found in local wetlands can be incredibly abundant. We tend to need to reach for the repellent and cover up to stop bites as soon as the sun starts going down.
&nbsp;
Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus can aggressively bite people but they&rsquo;re not as abundant as the swarms of summer mosquitoes back home.
&nbsp;
They also bite during the day, not just at night. So for those travelling to Bali or other areas at risk of dengue, putting insect repellent on throughout the day is recommended.
&nbsp;
What to pack for protection If you&rsquo;re staying in a major resort, there&rsquo;s likely to be a mosquito control programme in place. This may include minimising available water for mosquito breeding in combination with insecticide use. Mosquitoes are also less likely to be an issue in air-conditioned accommodation.
&nbsp;
But if you&rsquo;re planning to spend time out and about visiting local villages, markets, or in nature, it&rsquo;s best to protect against bites.
&nbsp;
Light coloured and loose fitting clothing will help stop mosquito bites (and help keep you cool). Covered shoes can help too &ndash; dengue mosquitoes love smelly feet.
&nbsp;
Finally, it&rsquo;s best to take some insect repellent with you. There may not be any available at your destination, and formulations on sale might not have been through the same thorough testing as products approved in Australia.

Sydney

Hidden risk of dengue fever in tropical paradises

In a remarkable feat of literary prowess, Rajdeep Kashyap, a BSc Botany student at Nalbari College, has etched his name in the Guinness Book of World Records by authoring a book in just nine hours.
&nbsp;
This exceptional accomplishment highlights the burgeoning talent emerging from Assam.
&nbsp;
Rajdeep's philosophical book, titled Jonmo Prem Mrityu &ndash; Kisu Byogyanik Kisu Aaloukik (Birth Love Death &ndash; Some Scientific Some Supernatural), spans 63 pages.
&nbsp;
Initially, Rajdeep faced the challenge of providing video evidence of his writing process, a prerequisite for Guinness World Records.
&nbsp;
However, with the support and endorsement of his college principal, he successfully substantiated and submitted his achievement.
&nbsp;
Inspired by a news report about a Rajasthan student who wrote a book in three days, Rajdeep began his writing journey on May 24 at 3:55 PM and completed it by 1:02 AM the next day, despite taking a brief 30-minute dinner break.
&nbsp;
In a local tabloid interview, Rajdeep stated that writing is a hobby rather than a career aspiration. His remarkable achievement adds to the growing list of records set by individuals from Assam.
&nbsp;
On June 6, another talented artist from Assam, Nayanmoni Hazarika from Lakhimpur, gained recognition in the India Book of Records for creating a large-sized portrait of Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika. This portrait was uniquely executed upside down using ash derived from burning wood.
&nbsp;

Assam's Rajdeep writes book in 9 hours, sets Guinness record

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on July 4, hosted the Indian T20 World Cup champions at his residence in New Delhi, marking a joyous reunion following their recent triumph.
&nbsp;
The mood was starkly different from their last encounter on November 19, 2023, when Team India faced a heartbreaking loss in the ODI World Cup final.
&nbsp;
During that somber November meeting, PM Modi had offered solace and encouragement to a despondent team.
&nbsp;
Captain Rohit Sharma and star batsman Virat Kohli received personal support from the Prime Minister, who sought to lift their spirits after their defeat to Australia in Ahmedabad.
&nbsp;
Fast forward to July 2024, the atmosphere was one of celebration.
&nbsp;
The Indian cricketers, proudly donning jerseys emblazoned with 'champions,' were welcomed warmly by PM Modi at a private ceremony held at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg.
&nbsp;
The joy and pride were palpable, with the players' smiles reflecting their historic win.
&nbsp;
India secured the T20 World Cup for the second time, narrowly defeating South Africa by seven runs in Barbados on June 29. This victory brought immense joy and relief to the team and their supporters.
&nbsp;
During the event, the cricketers sat in a circle around PM Modi.
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
An excellent meeting with our Champions! Hosted the World Cup winning team at 7, LKM and had a memorable conversation on their experiences through the tournament. <a href="https://t.co/roqhyQRTnn">pic.twitter.com/roqhyQRTnn</a>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1808788228335391013?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
Rohit Sharma was on the Prime Minister's right, while head coach Rahul Dravid was on his left. Vice-captain Hardik Pandya sat next to Rohit, with Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah flanking Dravid.
&nbsp;
The PM engaged in light-hearted conversations and shared hearty laughter with the players, creating a relaxed and happy atmosphere.
&nbsp;
A memorable moment from the ceremony was when PM Modi posed for a photograph with the entire team and the T20 World Cup trophy, symbolising the nation's pride in their achievement.
&nbsp;
The victorious team had a busy schedule following their return to India.
&nbsp;
They arrived in Delhi to a hero's welcome on Thursday, with fans eagerly awaiting their arrival. After a brief rest at ITC Maurya, the team proceeded to meet PM Modi. 
Only the cricketers, coaches, and top BCCI officials attended the meeting with the Prime Minister. Family members stayed back at the hotel.
&nbsp;
After the meeting, the players were set to return to the hotel before heading to Mumbai for an open bus parade scheduled for 5 PM. 
The journey back to India was not without its challenges. The team, support staff, and media were stranded in Barbados due to Hurricane Beryl, which caused the closure of Grantley Adams International Airport for three days. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah organised a flight that departed on July 2, arriving in Delhi early Thursday morning. The flight also carried board officials and members of the media contingent from the tournament.

PM Modi poses with T20 trophy, shares laughter with champs

A political crisis involving the ruling AINRC-BJP coalition is brewing in the union territory with a section of saffron party MLAs expressing displeasure against the government over issues including corruption, and have knocked on the doors of the national leadership with a plea to set things right before they &lsquo;become worse&rsquo;. Among others, they want a reshuffle of the cabinet.
&nbsp;
A delegation of seven legislators belonging to the BJP and also a couple of nominated legislators and independents has sought the intervention of the BJP high command &ldquo;to set right the shortcomings in the working of the coalition ministry in Puducherry&rdquo;, a BJP source said on Thursday.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Fissures within the local Bharatiya Janata Party unit also seem to have come to the fore with calls being made for replacing the incumbent UT head over the party nominee&rsquo;s loss in the just concluded Lok Sabha elections.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">BJP candidate, Puducherry Home Minister A Namassivayam lost to Congress&rsquo;s Ve Vaithilingam by a margin of over 1.36 lakh votes in the April 19 polls and murmurs are being heard in the saffron camp that the three-year old N Rangasamy-led government&rsquo;s &lsquo;deficient performance&rsquo; also contributed to his defeat.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">BJP MLAs PML Kalyanasundaram, A John Kumar and his son Richard, nominated legislator KVenkatesan and Independents M Shivashankaran, P Angalane and Gollapalli Srinivas Ashok, all supporting the government, held a meeting with BJP national president JP Nadda in Delhi on Wednesday and sought his intervention to &ldquo;set right the party and the administration&rdquo;, the source added.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">The delegation has also met Lt Governor CP Radhakrishan and raised certain issues, including the government not meeting the needs and requirements of the constituencies held by the BJP and legislators supporting it. The MLAs also complained about &ldquo;rampant corruption&rdquo;.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
At the national capital, the MLAs also met Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, who was the party observer here in the recent past and explained to him the apparent reasons for the failure of the BJP in the parliamentary polls, the source said.
&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Chief Minister Rangasamy remains tight-lipped even as legislators have come out against his government.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">The AINRC (All India NR Congress) has ten legislators on its side in the territorial Assembly while its ally, the BJP has six members. The are six Independents and three nominated legislators in the 30-member House. Besides, there are three nominated members.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">The opposition comprising Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and Congress together have a strength of eight members.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">The current development is also seen as having exposed the internal differences in the BJP. There was also a demand from a section of the BJP that the high command should replace the president of the State unit of the party S Selvaganapathy for poor electoral show.
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">&nbsp;
<p style="background: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px;">Former Puducherry BJP president V Saminathan has openly demanded for removing Selvaganapathy. 
&nbsp;

Puducherry

Puducherry MLAs knock at Delhi’s door against AINRC-BJP govt

At just 14 years old, Bengaluru's Dhinidhi Desinghu is set to become the youngest member of the Indian contingent at the Paris Olympics.
&nbsp;
The ninth-grader&rsquo;s dedication to swimming has required significant sacrifices, but she believes every bit of it has been worthwhile.
&nbsp;
"Sometimes I miss out on the fun activities kids my age enjoy, and I do feel lonely," Dhinidhi shared in an exclusive interview with PTI Bhasha at her home. "But I chose this path for myself. It comes with sacrifices, but I feel different, extraordinary, and proud. At 14, I'm going to the Olympics, so all the sacrifices are worth it."
&nbsp;
Dhinidhi&rsquo;s achievements this season have been impressive, clinching medals at the National Games and senior National championships, earning her the top rank among Indian female swimmers.
&nbsp;
Her consistent performances secured her one of the two Universality places offered by the Swimming Federation of India, granting her the chance to compete at the Olympics.
&nbsp;
"I knew there was a chance because I've been working very hard, but getting this opportunity so early in my career was a surprise. Being the youngest in the Indian contingent is a huge honour," Dhinidhi said. "I'm super excited to be part of the Indian Olympic team and meet the greatest athletes."
&nbsp;
Dhinidhi will compete in the women's 200m freestyle event. She is eager to gain experience and learn from the world's best athletes. "This is just the beginning. I have a long way to go, and I'm excited to see what more I can achieve in 2028 and 2032," she added.
&nbsp;
Meeting her idol, seven-time Olympic gold medallist swimmer Katie Ledecky, is a dream come true for Dhinidhi. "I made a greeting card for her last year, hoping to give it to her someday. If I get to see her in Paris, I'll be over the moon," she exclaimed.
&nbsp;
For Dhinidhi, this Olympic experience is about learning and growth. "I'm not focused on performance right now. I want to absorb everything, and I believe this will make me a better athlete," she concluded.

14-year-old Dhinidhi to swim for India in Paris Olympics

parvesh_kapoor

Ace Indian cueist Pankaj Advani scored a fine come-from-behind 4-2 win over Siddharth Parikh to keep himself in line for a hat-trick of Asian Billiards titles at Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
&nbsp;
The match started with Parikh taking an early lead. Showing precision, he scored 101 points, leaving Advani trailing with 38.
&nbsp;
The second frame was a nail-biter. Parikh managed to edge out Advani at 100-99. Parikh&rsquo;s highest break was 65, but the latter almost turned the frame in his favour with an impressive break of 92.
&nbsp;
Trailing 0-2, Advani bounced back strongly in the third frame with a commanding 101-0 win.
&nbsp;
His break of 60 was a testament to his strategic prowess and execution.
&nbsp;
The fourth frame was an intense battle. Parikh scored 95, including a break of 95, but it wasn&rsquo;t enough to surpass his opponent&rsquo;s101.
&nbsp;
Advani, with a break of 93, demonstrated his resilience and ability to perform under pressure, narrowly winning the frame.
&nbsp;
Advani was dominant in the fifth frame winning it 104-2, including a remarkable break of 87.
&nbsp;
In the final frame, Parikh put up a valiant effort, scoring 95 with a break of 95.
&nbsp;
However, Advani&rsquo;s total of 102, including a break of 77, secured him victory.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;It is good to keep the momentum going. Siddharth is a formidable opponent. Given the unpredictable nature of sport, it was a thrilling match.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;As the tournament progresses, it is important to keep focus,&rdquo; said Advani after the match.&nbsp;

Riyadh

Gritty Pankaj Advani wards off Siddharth Parikh

The Narendra Modi government has formed eight crucial Cabinet committees to address key policy issues across various sectors, including security, economy, and senior appointments.
&nbsp;
Union Ministers from the Bharatiya Janata Party and its National Democratic Alliance partners such as Janata Dal (United), Telugu Desam Party, Janata Dal (Secular), Shiv Sena and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) are among the members of these committees.
&nbsp;
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is part of six committees, Home Minister Amit Shah is on all eight, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is on six, and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is on seven.
&nbsp;
The new committees are: Cabinet Committee on Security, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs, Cabinet Committee on Accommodation, Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs, Cabinet Committee on Investment and Growth, and Cabinet Committee on Employment and Skill Development.
&nbsp;
List Of The Cabinet Committees are as follows:
&nbsp;
1. Appointments Committee Of Cabinet
<ul>
<li dir="ltr">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</li>
<li dir="ltr">Amit Shah, Minister of Home Affairs; and Minister of Cooperation</li>
</ul>
2.&nbsp; Cabinet Committee On Accommodation
<ul>
<li dir="ltr">Amit Shah, Minister of Home Affairs; and Minister of Cooperation</li>
<li dir="ltr">Nitin Jairam Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways</li>
<li dir="ltr">Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of Finance; and Minister of Corporate Affairs</li>
<li dir="ltr">Manohar Lal, Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs; and Minister of Power</li>
<li dir="ltr">Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and lndustry</li>
</ul>
Special Invitee
&nbsp;
<ul>
<li dir="ltr">Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (lndependent Charge) of the Ministry of Science and Technology; Minister of State (lndependent Charge) of the Ministry of Earth Sciences; Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office; Minister of State in the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions; Minister of State in the Department of Atomic Energy; and Minister of State in the Department of Space.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
3. Cabinet Committee On Economic Affairs
<ul>
<li dir="ltr">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</li>
<li dir="ltr">Rajnath Singh, Minister of Defence</li>
<li dir="ltr">Amit Shah, Minister of Home Affairs; and Minister of Cooperation</li>
<li dir="ltr">Nitin Jairam Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways</li>
<li dir="ltr">Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare; and Minister of Rural Development</li>
<li dir="ltr">Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of Finance; and Minister of Corporate Affairs</li>
<li dir="ltr">Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs</li>
<li dir="ltr">HD Kumaraswamy, Minister of Heavy lndustries; and Minister of Steel</li>
<li dir="ltr">Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and lndustry</li>
<li dir="ltr">Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of Education</li>
<li dir="ltr">Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, Minister of Panchayati Raj; and Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying</li>
</ul>
4. Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs
<ul>
<li dir="ltr">Rajnath Singh, Minister of Defence</li>
<li dir="ltr">Amit Shah, Minister of Home Affairs; and Minister of Cooperation</li>
<li dir="ltr">Jagat Prakash Nadda, Minister of Health and Family Welfare; and Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers</li>
<li dir="ltr">Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of Finance; and Minister of Corporate Affairs</li>
<li dir="ltr">Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, Minister of Panchayati Raj; and Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying</li>
<li dir="ltr">Virendra Kumar, Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment</li>
<li dir="ltr">Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, Minister of Civil Aviation</li>
<li dir="ltr">Jual Oram, Minister of Tribal Affairs</li>
<li dir="ltr">Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs; and Minister of Minority Affairs</li>
<li dir="ltr">CR Patil, Minister of Jal Shakti</li>
</ul>
Special lnvitees
<ul>
<li dir="ltr">Arjun Ram Meghwal, Minister of State (lndependent Charge) of the Ministry of Law and Justice; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs.</li>
<li dir="ltr">L Murugan, Minister of State in the Ministry of lnformation and Broadcasting; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs</li>
</ul>
5. Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs
<ul>
<li dir="ltr">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</li>
<li dir="ltr">Rajnath Singh, Minister of Defence</li>
<li dir="ltr">Amit Shah, Minister of Home Affairs; and Minister of Cooperation</li>
<li dir="ltr">Nitin Jairam Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways</li>
<li dir="ltr">Jagat Prakash Nadda, Minister of Health and Family Welfare; and Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers</li>
<li dir="ltr">Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of Finance; and Minister of Corporate Affairs</li>
<li dir="ltr">Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and lndustry</li>
<li dir="ltr">Jitan Ram Manjhi, Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises</li>
<li dir="ltr">Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways</li>
<li dir="ltr">Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, Minister of Civil Aviation</li>
<li dir="ltr">Bhupender Yadav, Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change</li>
<li dir="ltr">Annapurna Devi, Minister of Women and Child Development</li>
<li dir="ltr">Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs; and Minister of Minority Affairs</li>
<li dir="ltr">G Kishan Reddy, Minister of Coal; and Minister of Mines</li>
<li dir="ltr">6. Cabinet Committee on Security</li>
<li dir="ltr">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</li>
<li dir="ltr">Rajnath Singh, Minister of Defence</li>
<li dir="ltr">Amit Shah, Minister of Home Affairs; and Minister of Cooperation</li>
<li dir="ltr">Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of Finance; and Minister of Corporate Affairs</li>
<li dir="ltr">Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
7. Cabinet Committee on lnvestment and Growth&nbsp;
<ul>
<li dir="ltr">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</li>
<li dir="ltr">Rajnath Singh, Minister of Defence.</li>
<li dir="ltr">Amit Shah, Minister of Home Affairs; and Minister of Cooperation.</li>
<li dir="ltr">Nitin Jairam Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways.</li>
<li dir="ltr">Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of Finance; and Minister of Corporate Affairs.</li>
<li dir="ltr">Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and lndustry</li>
<li dir="ltr">Pralhad Joshi, Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution; and Minister of New and Renewable Energy</li>
<li dir="ltr">Giriraj Singh, Minister of Textiles</li>
<li dir="ltr">AshwiniVaishnaw, Minister of Railways; Minister of lnformation and Broadcasting; and Minister of Electronics and lnformation Technology.</li>
<li dir="ltr">Jyotiraditya M Scindia, Minister of Communications; and Minister of Development of North Eastern Region.</li>
<li dir="ltr">Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas</li>
<li dir="ltr">Chirag Paswan, Minister of Food Processing lndustries</li>
</ul>
Special lnvitees
<ul>
<li>Rao lnderjit Singh, Minister of State (lndependent Charge) of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme implementation; Minister of State (lndependent Charge) of the Ministry of Planning; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Culture</li>
<li dir="ltr">Prataprao Jadhav, Minister of State (lndependent Charge) of the Ministry of Ayush and Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare</li>
</ul>
8. Cabinet Committee on Skill, Employment and Livelihood
<ul>
<li dir="ltr">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</li>
<li dir="ltr">Rajnath Singh, Minister of Defence</li>
<li dir="ltr">Amit Shah, Minister of Home Affairs; and Minister of Cooperation</li>
<li dir="ltr">Nitin Jairam Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways</li>
<li dir="ltr">Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of Finance; and Minister of Corporate Affairs</li>
<li dir="ltr">Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and lndustry</li>
<li dir="ltr">Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of Education</li>
<li dir="ltr">Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Railways; Minister of lnformation and Broadcasting; and Minister of Electronics and Information Technology</li>
<li dir="ltr">Bhupender Yadav, Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change</li>
<li dir="ltr">Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Culture; and Minister of Tourism</li>
<li dir="ltr">Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas</li>
<li dir="ltr">Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister of Labour and Employment; and Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports &nbsp;</li>
</ul>
Special lnvitee
<ul>
<li dir="ltr">Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (lndependent Charge) of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Education.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;

Cabinet Committees under Modi 3.0 announced

Himachal Pradesh has been hit by heavy rains, resulting in the closure of 115 roads across the state. The Shimla meteorological office has issued an orange alert, warning of heavy to very heavy rains, thunderstorms, and lightning until Friday.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The rains have caused widespread disruption, with 107 roads in Mandi, four in Chamba, three in Solan, and one in Kangra district closed to vehicular traffic. Additionally, 212 transformers have been disrupted, leaving many areas without power.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
A stretch of the Chandigarh-Manali four-lane road has developed cracks and begun sinking, forcing officials to restrict traffic to one way. Locals have raised questions about the quality of construction, as a retaining wall built at a cost of lakhs of rupees has already started sinking.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The Met department has also issued a yellow warning for heavy rains on Saturday and Sunday, cautioning of potential damage to crops, structures, and disruption in traffic and waterlogging in low-lying areas.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Several trees were uprooted in Shimla, which received 84 mm of rain, and debris from drains littered the roads. Other areas that received heavy rainfall include Sundernagar, Palampur, Gohar, Solan, Mashobra, Jogindernagar, Baijnath, Mandi, Narkanda, and Kangra.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Narkanda recorded the lowest temperature at 13.4&deg;C, while Bhuntar in Kullu was the hottest at 35.6&deg;C.

Shimla

115 roads closed as heavy rains lash Himachal

Microsoft Corp has agreed to pay $14 million to settle allegations from a California agency that the company unlawfully penalized employees who took medical or family-care leave, as announced by the California Civil Rights Department on Wednesday.
&nbsp;
The Civil Rights Department's filings in state court accused the tech giant of retaliating against its California-based employees who utilized parental, disability, pregnancy, and family-care leave since 2017.
&nbsp;
The department claimed that these workers, who were predominantly women and people with disabilities, were denied raises, promotions, and stock awards.
&nbsp;
Additionally, they received lower performance-review scores, which negatively impacted their pay, career advancement opportunities, and overall career trajectory.
&nbsp;
The settlement, which is pending approval by a state judge, aims to resolve a multiyear investigation by the Civil Rights Department. Despite agreeing to the settlement, Microsoft denied any wrongdoing.
&nbsp;
A company spokesperson stated, "Microsoft is committed to an environment that empowers our employees to take leave when needed and provides the flexibility and support necessary for them to thrive professionally and personally." The spokesperson emphasized that the company disagreed with the agency's allegations.
&nbsp;

Microsoft to pay $14M in leave penalty settlement

The Central Bureau of Investigation has arrested one Ravindra alias Aman Singh in the NEET UG paper leak case from Dhanbad in Jharkhand. Aman Singh is said to be the main conspirator in the paper leak.
&nbsp;
Sources said that the CBI team has arrested the accused Aman Singh from Bindu Apartment in Bapu Nagar under Saraidhela police station area of Dhanbad.
&nbsp;
Aman Singh is very close to Rocky, who is absconding in the paper leak case.
&nbsp;
Rocky is the nephew of Sanjeev Mukhiya, who is involved in the hotel business in Ranchi.
&nbsp;
It is learnt that Rocky had arranged for solvers to prepare the answers to the NEET paper after the leak. Rocky is a special agent of the Sanjeev Mukhiya gang in Jharkhand.
&nbsp;
MBBS students from Ranchi and Patna were used as solvers.
&nbsp;
According to the information, the arrest of Aman Singh can provide important information about Rocky and the solvers.
&nbsp;
A team of CBI officials had reached Dhanbad based on the interrogation of the people arrested so far in the paper leak case and the information received from their digital devices.
&nbsp;
Two inspectors of the CBI team have been conducting raids in Saraidhela and Govindpur police station areas since Wednesday morning.
&nbsp;
Aman Singh was arrested from Bapu Nagar in the Saraidhela police station area, while his associate Bunty, a resident of Govindpur, escaped.
&nbsp;
However, the CBI team seized Bunty's SUV and handed it over to the Dhanbad CBI office.
&nbsp;
The CBI team has arrested Aman Singh and taken him to Patna.
&nbsp;
After presenting him in the court of CBI's special judge, he will be taken on remand and questioned.
&nbsp;
CBI sources have said that Aman has business relations with the paper leak gang.
&nbsp;
Earlier, Bihar police had raided locations in Deoghar and recovered some question papers, which were found to be identical to the one found in Oasis School Center in Hazaribagh.
&nbsp;
Later, the CBI team interrogated the principal of Oasis School in Hazaribagh and arrested him along with two others.
&nbsp;
So far, a total of four people have been arrested by the CBI in this case. And four others were arrested by the Economic Offences Unit of Bihar police from Deoghar.

CBI arrests another NEET leak conspirator from Jharkhand

The annual Amarnath Yatra has exceeded expectations, surpassing the one lakh mark in five days since it began on June 29.
&nbsp;
Officials stated that 30,586 Yatris paid obeisance at the Amarnath cave shrine in south Kashmir on Wednesday, bringing the total number of devotees performing &lsquo;darshan&rsquo; of the naturally formed ice lingam to 1,05,282.
&nbsp;
A batch of 9,800 yatris departed from the Baltal base camp on Wednesday. "A fresh batch of over 5,700 Yatris left for the Amarnath shrine from Jammu," officials confirmed.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
They added that many yatris took advantage of on-spot registration at the base camp counters established by the administration.
&nbsp;
The sixth batch of 5,725 pilgrims left in 256 vehicles for the twin base camps of Baltal and Pahalgam, escorted by security vehicles.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"While 3,211 yatris took the 48-km traditional Pahalgam route&hellip; 2,514 yatris chose the shorter but steep 14-km Baltal route," officials said.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The number of yatris participating in the Amarnath Yatra is expected to surpass all previous records, as the administration is meticulously overseeing all travel arrangements.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"Fool-proof security arrangements are in place for the ongoing Yatra, and civil societies, local district administrations, and residents are warmly welcoming the Yatris throughout the valley," officials remarked.
&nbsp;
In their ongoing efforts to assist the Amarnath Yatris, the J&amp;K Police, SDRF, and Forest Protection Force personnel have been actively helping elderly pilgrims and providing first aid when necessary.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Additionally, employees of the Forest Protection Force Department have also been seen extending a helping hand to those in need.

Amarnath yatra draws over 1 lakh pilgrims in 5 days

Border Security Force (BSF) troops, on Wednesday, nabbed a Pakistani teenage boy, near the International Border (IB) here, the officials stated.&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
According to the BSF, the troops observed the movement of a person in the morning hours near the border fence. The boy tried to escape, after which the BSF troops chased and apprehended him. He is being questioned by the BSF and other agencies to know about his motive for crossing the IB, officials said.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Sources said the boy was aged around 15.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The BSF troops had shot dead another Pakistani intruder near border outpost Sadqi in Abohar sector, officials had said on Tuesday.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
On observing suspicious movement during the intervening night on July 1-2, the BSF guard on duty warned the intruder.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
However, the intruder continued to move forward towards the border fence, after which the troops fired three rounds, they had said.

BSF nabs escaping Pakistani teen in Punjab's Ferozepur

The Awami Ittehad Party (AIP), which came up with a surprise win after its jailed leader Sheikh Abdul &lsquo;Engineer&rsquo; Rashid, contesting as an independent, won the Baramulla Lok Sabha seat in J&amp;K defeating political heavyweight Omar Abdullah, has announced it will contest in the upcoming state elections held later in 2024.
&nbsp;
Ishtiyaq Qadri, chairman of AIP&rsquo;s political affairs committee, said on Thursday that the party is now seeking candidates with clean records.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;People in the Valley are tired of traditional political parties and are looking for a change,&rdquo; he told reporters.
&nbsp;
The AIP plans to contest all seats in the Kashmir Valley and also in the Pir Panjal and Chenab regions of Jammu.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;Qadri mentioned that the party had set its sights on several seats in Jammu as well.
&nbsp;
While having a conversation with the reporter here, he said the party would field candidates for all seats in the Valley.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;Apart from that, we are also planning to field candidates in parts of the Jammu region like Rajouri, Poonch, and Kathua,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;We will again surprise the big players in politics in the upcoming polls.&rdquo;
&nbsp;
The party rests its hopes on the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections where Rashid secured 15 out of 18 Assembly segments in the Baramulla constituency.
&nbsp;
Rashid contested as an independent candidate and defeated the grand old party&rsquo;s seasoned politician Omar Abdullah with over two lakh votes, also handing a crushing defeat to separatist turned politician Sajad Gani Lone in his Baramulla constituency.
&nbsp;
The last Assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir was held in 2014. Since the abrogation of Article 370, the upcoming elections will be the first.
&nbsp;
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has indicated that the elections&nbsp;&nbsp;will be held soon, promising statehood for J&amp;K.
&nbsp;
Rashid, who has been in jail since 2019 on charges related to terror funding, is set to be the chief ministerial candidate for the AIP.
&nbsp;
During the Lok Sabha campaign, AIP focused on Rashid&rsquo;s release, and for the upcoming Assembly elections, the main issues will be the release of detainees, developmental work, and unemployment.
&nbsp;
While praising the constitution, Qadri said the party believes in the &ldquo;Indian Constitution and democracy,&rdquo; adding, &ldquo;It is the greatness of the Indian judiciary and democracy that allowed Rashid to contest the Lok Sabha elections despite being in jail.&rdquo;
&nbsp;

Engineer Rashid’s party AIP to contest J&K Assembly polls

Singer Justin Bieber is set to perform at the wedding celebrations of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in Mumbai. He was seen arriving in the city on Thursday, July 4.
&nbsp;
Paparazzi shared pictures on social media showing a convoy of cars accompanying him. Radhika Merchant will marry Anant Ambani on July 12.
&nbsp;
Bieber is one of the many international celebrities performing at the Ambani wedding. Earlier reports from India Today suggested that talks are ongoing for Adele, Drake, and Lana Del Rey to also take the stage at Radhika and Anant's wedding events.
&nbsp;
The popular Canadian vocalist is expected to take the stage at Anant and Radhika's pre-wedding musical evening. He is renowned for hit tracks such as 'Baby', 'Sorry', and 'Never Say Never', among others.
&nbsp;
Previously, the renowned pop sensation Rihanna performed at the pre-wedding celebration of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in Jamnagar.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Following the festivities in Jamnagar, the summer boat party in June included live performances by The Backstreet Boys, Pitbull, and Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, who delighted the audience on the charming Italian island of Portofino.

Justin Bieber arrives in Mumbai for Ambani wedding

Another bridge collapse occurred in Bihar on Thursday, making it the 10th such incident reported from the state in just over a fortnight.
&nbsp;
District Magistrate Aman Samir said the latest incident was reported from Saran, which witnessed two more bridge collapses in the last 24 hours.
&nbsp;
He said no casualty was reported after the structure, built 15 years ago by local authorities, collapsed this morning.
&nbsp;
The small bridge over the Gandaki river was in the Baneyapur block and connected several villages in Saran with the neighbouring Siwan district.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;The small bridge was constructed 15 years ago. I am going to the spot. Several other officials of the district administration have already reached there. The exact cause of the bridge collapse is yet to be ascertained, but desilting work has been recently undertaken," the district magistrate stated.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
On Wednesday, the Saran district witnessed the collapse of two small bridges&mdash;one in the Janta Bazar area and another in the Lahladpur area.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;A high-level probe has been ordered to find out the reason for the collapse of these small bridges in the district," the DM said.
&nbsp;
According to locals, heavy rainfall for the last few days in the district might have contributed to the collapse of these small bridges.
&nbsp;
In the past 15 days, 10 bridges have collapsed in the Siwan, Saran, Madhubani, Araria, East Champaran, and Kishanganj districts.
&nbsp;
After Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's directives, the state's road construction and rural works departments were asked to assess all old bridges and determine which ones needed urgent repairs.
&nbsp;
The CM convened a meeting on Wednesday to assess the maintenance strategies. He mentioned that the road construction department has already formulated its policy for bridge maintenance and urged the rural works department to devise its plan as well promptly.

Patna

Another bridge collapses in Bihar, 10th in 15 days

Equity benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty reached their lifetime peaks in early trade on Thursday, driven by firm global market trends, significant buying in blue-chip stocks, and robust Foreign Institutional Investors (FII) inflows.
&nbsp;
The 30-share BSE Sensex surged 388.84 points to hit a record high of 80,375.64 in early trade. Similarly, the Nifty climbed 114.45 points to reach a lifetime peak of 24,400.95.
&nbsp;
Among the top performers in the Sensex pack were Tata Motors, ICICI Bank, Mahindra &amp; Mahindra, Infosys, HCL Technologies, and Tata Consultancy Services. Conversely, HDFC Bank, IndusInd Bank, Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone, and Bharti Airtel were among the laggards.
&nbsp;
FIIs purchased equities worth Rs 5,483.63 crore on Wednesday, according to exchange data. This substantial buying activity is largely attributed to massive delivery-based buying in banking stocks, particularly HDFC Bank.
&nbsp;
"The big FII buying of Rs 5,484 crore on Wednesday is largely due to the massive delivery-based buying in banking stocks led by HDFC Bank. This delivery-based buying may sustain for a few more days imparting resilience to the market," said V K Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.
&nbsp;
He added, "The FIIs with 3.78 lakh long contracts have taken a 'U' turn in their market approach from the big short contracts in early June. A decline in the US 10-year bond yield to 4.35 percent and the dollar index declining to 105.29 are positives for fund inflows."
&nbsp;
Vijayakumar also noted that the market would soon start responding to Q1 results, which are expected to begin flowing in next week.
&nbsp;
In Asian markets, Tokyo and Seoul traded positively on Thursday, while Shanghai and Hong Kong quoted lower.
&nbsp;
US markets ended higher on Wednesday during the shortened trading session, though they remain closed on July 4, Thursday due to Independence day.

Sensex, Nifty hit lifetime peaks on FII inflows

Sri Lanka has successfully reached a debt restructuring agreement with its international sovereign bondholders, marking a significant step in the nation's efforts to restore debt sustainability.
&nbsp;
The announcement was made by State Finance Minister Shehan Semasinghe on Thursday, who hailed the deal as a "crucial step" for the cash-strapped country.
&nbsp;
In a statement, Minister Shehan confirmed that the agreement on restructuring terms was finalised on Wednesday, completing the long-awaited debt restructuring process for Sri Lanka.
&nbsp;
"ISBs (International Sovereign Bonds) account for USD 12.5 billion out of the total external debt of USD 37 billion. This agreement is a crucial step in our efforts to restore debt sustainability," Semasinghe said.
&nbsp;
The minister added that the deal with private bondholders is pending approval from the official creditor committee of nations, which includes India.
"This marks another key milestone in our journey towards economic revival and strengthening," he said.
&nbsp;
Officials disclosed that the agreed-upon restructuring includes a 28 percent haircut and an upfront payment to ISB holders starting in September of this year.
&nbsp;
This agreement finalises Sri Lanka&rsquo;s comprehensive debt restructuring process, a prerequisite for debt sustainability under the ongoing International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout of USD 2.9 billion, which was extended in March 2023 over four years.
&nbsp;
The announcement follows the finalisation of debt restructuring agreements with bilateral lenders, including India and China, in Paris on June 26.
&nbsp;
President Ranil Wickremesinghe described this earlier agreement as a &ldquo;significant milestone&rdquo; in bolstering international trust in Sri Lanka's debt-ridden economy.

Colombo

Sri Lanka finalises debt restructuring agreement

Nepal&rsquo;s government, led by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal &ldquo;Prachanda,&rdquo; has collapsed following a dramatic two-day political standoff.
&nbsp;
The turning point came as coalition ministers from the Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML) resigned en-masse, retracting their support.
&nbsp;
On Tuesday, the CPN-UML, a crucial ally in Dahal&rsquo;s coalition, issued a 24-hour ultimatum demanding his resignation, calling it &ldquo;a respectful exit.&rdquo;
&nbsp;
As the deadline expired, the party made its move.
&nbsp;
Early Wednesday, eight CPN-UML ministers in Dahal&rsquo;s cabinet, which was formed on March 4 this year, submitted their resignations at the Prime Minister&rsquo;s residence in Baluwatar.
&nbsp;
They had previously gathered at the home of UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli before proceeding to Baluwatar.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;We have resigned and submitted the letter to the Prime Minister a while ago. All eight ministers from the CPN-UML have resigned, informing the Prime Minister that we are no longer part of this government and are withdrawing our support,&rdquo; said Jwalakumari Sah, the former minister for Agriculture from the PM&rsquo;s residence.
&nbsp;
The political landscape in Nepal is set for further upheaval. On Monday night, the UML and the Nepali Congress reached an agreement to form a new government.
&nbsp;
According to the deal, KP Sharma Oli will lead a new national consensus government for a year and a half, after which former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba will take over for the remaining term.
&nbsp;
Despite the mounting pressure, Dahal has shown reluctance to step down immediately.
&nbsp;
The office-bearers&rsquo; meeting of the CPN (Maoist Centre), held in Baluwatar on Tuesday, decided that Dahal would not resign but would instead face a trust vote in Parliament within 30 days following the withdrawal of support.
&nbsp;
By Wednesday, the Nepali Congress formally endorsed the new coalition agreement with the CPN-UML. A central work execution committee meeting, held at party President Sher Bahadur Deuba&rsquo;s residence in Budhanilkantha, ratified the deal.
&nbsp;
The agreement stipulates that the two largest parties will lead the government on a rotational basis for the remaining three-and-a-half years of the current parliament&rsquo;s tenure.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;The meeting concludes that it would be appropriate for the Prime Minister to pave the way for the formation of a new national consensus government, as following the agreement between Nepali Congress and the CPN-UML, a clear majority in the House of Representatives is in favour of forming the government under the leadership of KP Sharma Oli,&rdquo; read a statement issued after the meeting.
&nbsp;
The Nepali Congress meeting also committed to implementing the agreement, emphasizing goals such as protecting national interests, controlling corruption, ensuring good governance, and development, maintaining political stability, amending the constitution to strengthen the federal democratic republican system and inclusiveness, and fortifying the economy.
&nbsp;
As part of the overnight agreement between Deuba and Oli, a committee has been established to propose amendments to the election procedures and the constitution. This committee will be chaired by former Chief Justice Kalyan Shrestha.
&nbsp;
The constitutional amendment drafted in the agreement includes a provision that the Vice President will become the chairman of the National Assembly.
&nbsp;
Leaders from both the Congress and the UML informed President Ram Chandra Paudel about the new coalition and the planned constitutional changes.
&nbsp;
During their meeting with the President, the leaders invoked Section 76 (2) of the constitution to form a new government if the incumbent Prime Minister fails to win the vote of confidence following the UML&rsquo;s withdrawal of support.
&nbsp;
Prime Minister Dahal, who ascended to power after the 2022 General Elections, now faces another vote of confidence in Parliament.
&nbsp;
This will be the fifth floor test for Dahal, who has already navigated four such votes during his current tenure.

Kathmandu

Nepal govt collapses as coalition ministers resign en-masse

The destiny of Rishi Sunak as the Prime Minister of Britain and the leader of the Conservative Party is uncertain as the UK heads to the polls on Thursday.
&nbsp;
Roughly 46.5 million British citizens are eligible to vote in the election. The voters will choose members of Parliament from 650 constituencies, with 326 seats needed for a majority under the first-past-the-post system.
&nbsp;
At 44, Sunak is facing voter dissatisfaction with the ruling Tories, who have been in power for 14 years. He has been struggling to catch up with the 61-year-old Keir Starmer-led Labour Party throughout the six-week campaign.
&nbsp;
Both leaders concluded their campaign messages with different tones &mdash; Sunak advised voters against giving a "supermajority" to &ldquo;tax-raising&rdquo; Labour, while Starmer downplayed the possibility of a landslide victory, expressing concern about a low turnout affecting the final result.
&nbsp;
On Thursday, about 40,000 polling stations will open nationwide at 7 am local time as voters arrive to mark their chosen candidate on a paper ballot. Identification documents are now required for voting, and the elections are open to all registered adult voters living in the UK, including Indians as Commonwealth citizens.
&nbsp;
Once the votes are cast and the polling stations officially close at 10 pm local time, attention turns to the definitive exit poll, which provides a reliable snapshot of the UK-wide expectations. Counting begins in various locations across the country immediately, and the first results are anticipated just before midnight local time.
&nbsp;
Stop Labour&rsquo;s supermajority is the central message British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was trying to drive home on Wednesday's final day of campaigning, as most of the incumbent Conservatives all but conceded defeat in the general election.
&nbsp;
According to polling experts, there is a prediction of a low turnout, which was at 67 per cent in the last general election in December 2019 when Johnson secured a solid majority with his "get Brexit done" campaign.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
If opinion polls are accurate, the current Tories are expected to win anywhere from 53 to 150 seats, while Labour is forecasted to win by a large margin. The vote, called by Sunak, is taking place earlier than necessary and has caught much of his party off guard.
&nbsp;
The 2019 General Election resulted in a Conservative victory. The party won 365 seats, while the Labour Party won 202 seats.&nbsp;

UK votes today: PM Sunak's future on the line

The Thiruvalla Municipality secretary in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala has issued a show-cause notice to eight employees following the viral circulation of a social media reel.
&nbsp;
The reel features the employees singing and dancing within the office premises.
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
A group of government employees at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thiruvalla?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thiruvalla</a> Municipality in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a> have landed in trouble after a reel they shared on social media went viral. The employees, who work in the revenue section, were found to have shot the reel during office hours, using office&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/EzbUNNqDlE">pic.twitter.com/EzbUNNqDlE</a>
&mdash; South First (@TheSouthfirst) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheSouthfirst/status/1808386864044441835?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The employees choreographed the reel and performed the scripted song and dance within the office space.
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Subsequently, the reel gained significant attention and was brought to the municipality secretary's attention. The secretary swiftly issued a show-cause notice to the eight employees, requesting they provide an explanation within three days.
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When the media asked the secretary about the action, he said that he had done his duty after learning of the act.
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The employees anticipated that they wouldn't face any repercussions since it was harmless.
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However, following the receipt of the notice on Wednesday, the employees claimed that the film was recorded when the office was not operational and had not interfered with work or inconvenienced anyone seeking assistance.

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