News Arena Network

Ansh Mavani

In response to heavy rainfall causing severe waterlogging across Delhi, the city government convened an emergency meeting at the Delhi Secretariat on Friday. Led by several senior officials and chaired by four ministers, the meeting addressed the pressing issue of waterlogging exacerbated by the recent downpour.
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At a subsequent press conference, Delhi Minister Atishi emphasised the gravity of the situation, highlighting that excessive rainfall, surpassing the drainage capacity, led to waterlogging at over 200 identified hotspots in the city.
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She underscored that 40 of these locations are under constant CCTV surveillance by the Public Works Department (PWD), reflecting proactive measures to manage the crisis.
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"We have identified approximately 200 areas prone to waterlogging due to the recent heavy rainfall. The current volume of rain, such as the 228 mm recorded recently, exceeds the drainage capacity, causing prolonged water accumulation," Atishi explained, addressing concerns about the city's preparedness for such weather events.
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Echoing her sentiments, Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj outlined the decisions taken during the emergency meeting to mitigate waterlogging risks. He stressed the collaboration between Traffic Police and local authorities to identify vulnerable areas and streamline inter-departmental responses. Bharadwaj also referenced historical data, noting that the city hadn't witnessed such intense rainfall in June since 1936.
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Simultaneously, Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena convened a meeting of key agencies including the Delhi Jal Board, PWD, Irrigation and Flood Control Department, Delhi Police, Municipal Corporation of Delhi, National Disaster Management Control, and Delhi Development Authority. This assembly aimed to assess the current water logging situation and strategize emergency responses amidst the ongoing pre-monsoon showers.
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During the meeting, concerns were raised about incomplete desilting operations and delayed issuance of Flood Control Orders, underscoring gaps in the city's preparedness for monsoon emergencies.
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In response, Saxena issued 11 directives for immediate action, including the establishment of a 24x7 emergency control room and deployment of mobile pumps to alleviate waterlogging.
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Earlier in the day, scenes of waterlogged streets and symbolic protests underscored the public's frustration with the situation. BJP councillor Ravinder Singh Negi's act of rowing an inflatable boat on NH9 highlighted the civic discontent, aimed at drawing attention to governance issues amid such crises.
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According to the Indian Meteorological Department, the Safdarjung observatory recorded 228 mm of rainfall by 8:30 am on Friday, marking it as the second-highest 24-hour rainfall in June since 1936, just shy of the record set on June 28, 1936, of 235.55 mm.
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The ongoing efforts by the Delhi government and relevant agencies reflect a concerted response to mitigate the immediate impacts of heavy rainfall and address systemic challenges in urban flood management.
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As the monsoon season progresses, continuous vigilance and adaptive strategies remain crucial to safeguarding Delhiites from the effects of extreme weather events.

New Delhi

Heavy rains paralyse Delhi, Govt calls urgent meet

Ayesha Banerjee

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Friday reacted to a racist slur targeted at him, saying it made him &ldquo;hurt and angry&rdquo;.
 Speaking to reporters on the general election campaign trail, Sunak said his two daughters, Krishna and Anoushka, had to see and hear Reform UK activists who campaigned for party leader Nigel Farage &ldquo;calling me a Paki".
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"It hurts, and it makes me angry," the 44-year-old British Indian leader said, adding that Farage has questions to answer.
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Sunak noted: "I don't repeat those words lightly. I do so deliberately because this is too important not to call out clearly for what it is.
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"When you see Reform candidates and campaigners, seemingly using racist and misogynistic language and opinions seemingly without challenge, I think it tells you something about the culture within the Reform Party."&nbsp;
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He was speaking after a campaigner for the far-right Reform UK was filmed using the slur considered racist towards people of South Asian heritage, forcing the party&rsquo;s leader and general election candidate Nigel Farage to condemn the actions as &ldquo;appalling,&rdquo; PTI reported.
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Reform UK is fielding hundreds of candidates in the July 4 election on an anti-immigration stance with the hope of posing a major challenge for the incumbent Conservative Party, which is heavily trailing in the polls.
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However, with the election called earlier than expected, the party has been unable to fully vet all its campaigners and one of them &ndash; Andrew Parker &ndash; was filmed by an undercover reporter from Channel 4.
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&ldquo;The appalling sentiments expressed by some in these exchanges bear no relation to my own views, those of the vast majority of our supporters or Reform UK,&rdquo; Farage said in a statement.
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The same activist was also heard suggesting that army recruits with guns should be posted to &ldquo;just shoot&rdquo; illegal migrants landing on UK beaches.
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Speaking at a campaign event on Thursday, Farage said that &ldquo;one or two people let us down and we let them go&rdquo; but added that &ldquo;in most cases they're just speaking like ordinary folk.&rdquo;
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The 60-year-old divisive politician is making his eighth attempt to be elected to Parliament after seven failed bids. This time, polls suggest a comfortable lead for him in the race to represent the seaside town of Clacton-on-Sea.
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While Reform is likely to win only a handful of seats, at most, in the 650-seat House of Commons, Farage says his goal is to get a foothold and lead the &ldquo;real&rdquo; Opposition to a Labour Party government &ndash; which is widely expected to succeed the Sunak-led Tories after the general election.&nbsp;
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The British Indian leader has, meanwhile, warned voters that a vote for Reform UK was effectively a vote in favour of a tax-raising Labour Party.
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He has also hit back at Farage&rsquo;s own controversial statements claiming that the West had provoked Russian President Vladimir Putin into attacking Ukraine.&nbsp;&ldquo;What he said was wrong, it was completely wrong. It plays into Putin&rsquo;s hand,&rdquo; Sunak told &lsquo;The Telegraph&rsquo;.
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&ldquo;This is the guy [Putin] who used nerve agents on British streets, he&rsquo;s doing deals with North Korea. That is who we&rsquo;re talking about here. This kind of appeasement is very damaging not just for our security, but the security of our allies that depend on us and it emboldens Putin further,&rdquo; he said.
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Senior Tories are worried that disaffected party supporters switching to Reform UK could cost them seats and hand Labour a &ldquo;super-majority&rdquo; in the election.
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Sunak attempted to reach out to this disaffected set of voters in the last week before the election with a plea that a &ldquo;Labour government isn&rsquo;t just something that you buy that if you decide you don&rsquo;t like you can take back to the shop and return it.&rdquo;
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&ldquo;It&rsquo;s going to have profound consequences for you and your family, potentially for decades if they change the system to stay in power that long. So you should think very carefully about the choice at this election because it has consequences,&rdquo; he said.
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It comes as his party continues to battle the betting scandal engulfing the Tories, with his chief of staff said to be assisting with the Gambling Commission&rsquo;s ongoing inquiries into possible cheating behind some candidates betting on a July election date based on insider knowledge.

London

Post

Rishi Sunak ‘hurt, angered’ by racist slur

Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu announced on Friday that an investigation has been launched into the canopy collapse incident at Delhi Airport&rsquo;s Terminal 1. Heavy rain caused a portion of the canopy to collapse early Friday morning, resulting in the death of one person and injuries to several others.
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Minister Kinjarapu stated that experts from the department will be brought in to thoroughly investigate the incident. Based on the findings of the investigation, appropriate action will be taken. He emphasised that the safety of all airport buildings across the country would be reviewed to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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A review meeting was scheduled for today, and the Minister announced a compensation of Rs 20 lakh for the family of the deceased and Rs 3 lakh each for the injured. He assured that the injured individuals, currently receiving treatment at the hospital, are being well cared for. He clarified that the collapsed building was an older structure inaugurated in 2009, not the one recently inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
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Earlier, Minister Kinjarapu issued a statement regarding the canopy collapse, mentioning that Prime Minister Modi is closely monitoring the situation and has assured full support.
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The immediate priority was the safe evacuation of all passengers from the terminal. Consequently, all flights scheduled until 2 PM were cancelled, with passengers receiving full refunds or options to rebook on alternative flights and routes. Flights scheduled to depart after 2 PM were redirected to Terminals 2 and 3.
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The Minister noted that a thorough examination of the terminal's structure is being conducted by experts to ensure safety. Various agencies, including DGCA, BCAS, CISF, Delhi Police, and NDRE, are working in close coordination to manage the situation effectively. He reiterated the commitment to providing compensation to the affected families and those injured.
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Minister Kinjarapu also visited Safdarjung and AIIMS hospitals in Delhi to meet with the injured individuals. When asked about the possibility of additional patients requiring treatment, he mentioned that there was no such information at the moment but that they were prepared to receive more patients if necessary.
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This incident highlights the importance of stringent safety measures and regular inspections to ensure the structural integrity of public buildings, especially those as critical as airport terminals.
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The government&rsquo;s swift response and commitment to investigating the cause of the collapse aim to prevent future occurrences and ensure the safety of travellers.

Experts to investigate Delhi Airport accident

Senior advocate and DMK MP P Wilson met with Law and Justice Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal on Friday at Parliament to seek reconsideration of the need for enacting three new criminal laws.
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These new laws, namely, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam 2023, are set to replace the Indian Penal Code of 1860, the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1973, and the Indian Evidence Act of 1872, and are scheduled to come into effect from July 1.
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In a post on X, Wilson expressed the concerns of stakeholders, including lawyers, advocates associations, and various State Bar Councils, about the unrest caused by these acts.
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He highlighted that these new laws have led to widespread protests and dissatisfaction within the legal community. He informed the Law Minister about the protests seeking to scrap the three enactments. Wilson further mentioned that the Law Minister assured him that the concerns would be looked into.
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Wilson argued that the new enactments do not bring substantial changes and are essentially &ldquo;old wine in a new bottle.&rdquo; He urged the Minister to reconsider the necessity of these acts, emphasising the need for comprehensive discussions and reviews before implementation.
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On June 26, the Bar Council of India (BCI) requested all Bar Associations to refrain from any form of agitation or protest at this juncture. The BCI assured that it would initiate discussions with the Union Government, represented by the Union Home Minister and the Law Minister, to convey the concerns of the legal fraternity.
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The BCI received numerous representations from Bar Associations and State Bar Councils across the nation, expressing strong protests against the newly introduced criminal laws.
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These Bar Associations have signalled their intent to engage in indefinite agitations and protests unless these laws are suspended and subjected to thorough nationwide discussions, including a comprehensive review by Parliament.
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Concerns have been raised that several provisions of these new laws are perceived to be anti-people and more draconian than the colonial-era laws they intend to replace. They pose a serious threat to the fundamental rights of citizens.
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Notable legal luminaries such as Kapil Sibal, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Mukul Rohatgi, Vivek Tankha, P. Wilson, Dushyant Dave, Indira Jaising, and many other Senior Advocates have voiced strong opposition to these laws.
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Several Bar Associations have also called for a fresh examination of the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UA(P)A), asserting that these laws contravene the principles of fundamental rights and natural justice.
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The BCI has requested all Bar Associations to refrain from any form of agitation or protest at this juncture. BCI Chairman and senior advocate Manan Kumar Mishra said that the council will initiate discussions with the Union Government, represented by the Union Home Minister and the Law Minister, to convey the concerns of the legal fraternity.
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The BCI will also seek the intervention of the Union Minister for Environment, Bhupendra Yadav, who is an advocate, to mediate in this matter.
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Additionally, the BCI requests all Bar Associations and senior advocates to submit specific provisions of the new laws they deem unconstitutional or detrimental, to facilitate a productive dialogue with the government.

DMK MP urges Law Minister to review criminal laws

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is set to lead the Indian delegation at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, next week. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced this on Friday. The summit, scheduled from July 3-4, will see participation from member states of the SCO, with Kazakhstan hosting the event this year.
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Kazakhstan has taken over the SCO presidency from India, which hosted the summit virtually in July 2023. Kazakhstan&rsquo;s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is this year&rsquo;s host and has proposed several initiatives, including the establishment of a joint investment fund.
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In a recent telephonic conversation with President Tokayev on June 25, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed full support for the upcoming summit's success in Astana.
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Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral strategic partnerships. Prime Minister Modi expressed confidence that Kazakhstan&rsquo;s leadership would significantly advance regional cooperation.
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During a weekly briefing, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that the External Affairs Minister would lead the Indian delegation at the summit. The conversation between PM Modi and President Tokayev underscored their shared commitment to strategic partnerships and regional cooperation.
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PM Modi, in a post on X, conveyed his confidence in Kazakhstan&rsquo;s leadership and reiterated India's support for the summit.
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The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, established in 2001, is a political, economic, and security organisation. Its current members include China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Iran became a full member in 2023 during India&rsquo;s presidency of the grouping.
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Belarus, currently an observer state, is next in line for full membership. The SCO aims to enhance regional security, counter-terrorism efforts, and economic cooperation among its member states. The organisation encompasses over 60 percent of the Eurasian landmass, 40 percent of the world population, and 30 percent of the global GDP.
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The upcoming summit in Astana is a significant event, reflecting the collaborative efforts of the member states to address regional challenges and strengthen economic ties.
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The leadership transition from India to Kazakhstan marks a new phase in the SCO's ongoing efforts to promote stability and development in the region.
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As the Indian delegation, led by EAM S. Jaishankar, prepares to participate, the focus will be on continuing to build on the progress made during India's presidency and supporting the new initiatives proposed by Kazakhstan.

EAM Jaishankar to attend SCO summit in Kazakhstan

Deepan

Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, soon after being released from jail, stated that attempts are being made to suppress people's voices in a planned manner across the country.
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Soren, who was granted bail by the Jharkhand High Court on Friday, immediately visited his father and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha chief Shibu Soren at his residence.
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Speaking to the media after meeting his parents, Soren said, "I have come out of jail after five months. These five months have been very worrying for our state and the people of Jharkhand. The whole country knows why I went to jail, and finally, the court has delivered its justice, under which I have been released today."
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"I respect and honor the court. But, it is concerning that in present times, there are attempts to suppress the voices of politicians, social workers, writers, and journalists in a very planned manner. This is not hidden from anyone," he said.
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"The time it takes to get justice is more critical than normal times. That period is creating trouble for people in a planned manner. I was kept in jail for five months based on false and fabricated stories," he added.
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Soren further noted that many individuals who raise their voices in different parts of the country are imprisoned.
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He mentioned that the Chief Minister of Delhi is in jail, along with many ministers, and that the justice process is taking so long that it spans years instead of days and months. Dedicated individuals are being obstructed from doing their work.
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The former Jharkhand CM urged people to review the court's order thoroughly and inform the country.

Ranchi

Voices of people being suppressed: Hemant Soren

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday arrested Dr. Ehsanul Haq, Principal of Oasis School in Hazaribagh, and Center Superintendent Imtiaz in connection with the NEET paper leak case.
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A total of 12 individuals, including Dr. Haq, were taken into custody for questioning.
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Dr. Haq served as the district coordinator for the NEET exam in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand. For the past two days, a CBI team has been interrogating Haq and several others at CCL&rsquo;s Charhi Guest House in Hazaribagh.
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The NEET paper leak case spans across Jharkhand, Bihar, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra. During a raid by the Bihar Police on the hideouts of the suspects, photocopies of half-burnt question papers were discovered.
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The Economic Offenses Unit (EOU) of Bihar matched these with the original question paper provided by the National Testing Agency (NTA), finding 68 identical questions.
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Further investigation revealed that these question papers matched booklets from Oasis School in Hazaribagh.
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Initially, when summoned by the CBI, Dr. Ehsanul Haq denied any involvement. However, the EOU indicated that the principal's role appeared suspicious.
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Ehsanul Haq also serves as the city coordinator for CBSE and had responsibilities covering four districts: Hazaribagh, Chatra, Koderma, and Ramgarh.
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During CBI interrogation, Dr. Haq claimed his role was limited to receiving the question papers from the bank and ensuring they were kept securely in the control room.
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He noted that NTA installs CCTV cameras and the room remains locked.

CBI arrests Hazaribag principal in NEET paper leak

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has taken a significant step in the ongoing Excise Policy case by filing a supplementary prosecution complaint (chargesheet) in Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court. This development marks the eighth chargesheet filed in connection with the alleged money laundering linked to Delhi's excise policy.
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The charge sheet specifically names Vinod Chauhan, who stands accused of facilitating illicit transfers of funds purportedly received by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) through hawala channels. Scheduled for hearing on July 1, the case is being pursued vigorously by Special Public Prosecutor Naveen Kumar Matta before the vacation judge at Rouse Avenue Court.
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Vinod Chauhan's involvement revolves around the transfer of funds amounting to Rs 25.5 crores out of a total of Rs 45 crores allegedly utilised during the AAP's electoral campaign in Goa. His arrest in May, conducted by the ED from its Goa Zonal Office, has placed him in judicial custody pending further proceedings.
During previous court appearances, the ED, represented by Advocates Zoheb Hossain and Naveen Kumar Matta, asserted that Chauhan was fully aware of the illicit origins of the transferred funds, which were linked to the Delhi liquor excise policy scandal.
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According to ED allegations, Chauhan played a pivotal role in facilitating hawala transfers and managing cash movements. Moreover, he was purportedly a key intermediary between bureaucrats, politicians, and the funds' recipients.
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In the course of investigations, searches conducted at various locations yielded significant findings, including the seizure of Rs 1.06 crores from Chauhan's residence. The ED contends that this amount, allegedly associated with the South Group, was being held for AAP leaders.
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The Excise Policy case has drawn attention for alleged irregularities during the modification of Delhi's excise policy. Both the ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) have accused individuals of extending undue favours to licence holders, waiving or reducing licence fees, and extending the L-1 licence without proper authorization from competent authorities.
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As legal proceedings continue, the ED's latest chargesheet underscores ongoing efforts to unravel the complexities surrounding financial irregularities linked to Delhi's excise policies. The case remains a focal point in the scrutiny of alleged misconduct and financial impropriety within the political landscape.

ED files 8th chargesheet in excise policy scam

Neha Singh

Ousted from power in Odisha by the Bharatiya Janata Party, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) joined the opposition ranks on Friday and&nbsp;protested, demanding a discussion on NEET in Rajya Sabha.
&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;">As the INDIA bloc parties gave notices demanding a discussion on the NEET issue, the BJD MPs also joined the protest and trooped in the Well of the House.
<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;The Biju Janata Dal and other opposition parties... strongly wanted a discussion on NEET. When it was not done, we went to the Well of the House.
<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;">We protested (and) asked for a discussion. (But) it was not allowed,&rdquo; BJD leader in Rajya Sabha Sasmit Patra said outside Parliament.
<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 BJD also joined the opposition's walkout, which was staged after Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar refused to adjourn the House after Congress MP Phulo Devi Netam fainted in the House.
<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;We had only&nbsp;requested that the House should be adjourned because a member had fainted. Even that was not done. So we all opposition parties have walked out in protest,&rdquo; he 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 BJD, in the first two terms of the BJP-led NDA, had been a reliable source of support for the government in passing of legislations, even though it was not a formal ally.
<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 party could not win any Lok Sabha seats this time, but has nine MPs in Rajya Sabha.
<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 BJP defeated the BJD in the recently held Odisha assembly elections. 
&nbsp;

Bhubaneswar

BJD joins Opposition in protest against NEET row

Shyna Gupta

Scientists at the University of Tokyo have discovered a revolutionary method to attach living human skin to robotic faces without causing damage or tearing.
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This innovation promises to significantly enhance the ability of robots to display realistic human expressions, such as smiling and other facial movements.
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The research team, led by Professor Shoji Takeuchi from the Institute of Industrial Science, drew inspiration from the structure of human skin ligaments. The team created &lsquo;anchors&rsquo; by applying collagen gel to small V-shaped holes on the robot&rsquo;s exterior surface.&nbsp;
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According to Professor Takeuchi, this method offers &ldquo;a more seamless and durable attachment.&rdquo; The combination of human skin's flexibility and the strong adhesion provided by these anchors allows for mechanical movement without damaging the skin.
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Takeuchi&rsquo;s team has also developed a living robot skin using collagen a protein found in human skin and human dermal fibroblasts, the primary cell type in connective tissue. This innovation has enabled a robotic finger to bend without breaking the skin, marking a significant advancement over previous methods that often damaged the skin.
&nbsp;
Notably, this new approach allows robots to heal their own skin, mimicking the self-repair capabilities of human skin. While the technology is still in its developmental stages, it holds immense potential for future applications.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;For quite some time, one of the major issues when trying to attach human skin to mechanical beings was manipulating the soft and wet biological tissue during the development process,&rdquo; Professor Takeuchi explained. &ldquo;With this new method, we believe the research could also have implications for skin ageing, plastic surgery, and cosmetics.&rdquo;

Tokyo

Robots can now smile with real skin

India, recently, witnessed the biggest electoral festival. While the festival is over, its after effects still find resonance with one&rsquo;s day-to-day life.
&nbsp;
People exercise their franchise in favour of the leader whom they assume to fight for their cause. And political leaders, too, channelise their every move in the direction of the votes, which they need to remain in power. &nbsp; West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on Thursday, in keeping with all too familiar forecasts from sections in her party, apparently stepped back in a matter of 68 hours from her newfound toughness as the head of the state government to crack down on encroachments and illegal constructions. &nbsp; CM Banerjee &mdash; seen on live television in the 4pm meeting on Monday at the State Secretariat &mdash; took the backseat in a similar exercise at the same venue from 12pm on Thursday. And &lsquo;Didi&rsquo;&mdash; the mass leader took over. &nbsp; The Trinamool Congress chairperson pressed the pause button on the anti-encroachment exercise for a month and offered to accommodate the concerns of those displaced by the drive. &nbsp; &ldquo;Nobody has given us the right to take away people&rsquo;s food (livelihood). We do not have the right to render anybody unemployed,&rdquo; said Mamata at the second televised meeting. &nbsp; Within a span of a few hours, the tough chief minister, who wanted to teach the state&rsquo;s hawker&rsquo;s a lesson, came up with a renewed sense of concern for their &lsquo;livelihood&rsquo;.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Why this sudden change in stance? &nbsp; It has been learnt that she had convened the meeting after widespread criticism from the party over the visuals of bulldozers pitilessly tearing down structures from where hawkers and vendors made a living for themselves and their families. &nbsp; The chief minister, who has been caustic in her criticism over the years of bulldozer-driven action in Bharatiya Janata Party-ruled states, such as by the Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh, was suddenly being criticised for the same.
 The Left had already started calling her out on the allegedly Adityanath-esque action. &nbsp; Was the surprising change in plan for encroachers based on Opposition&rsquo;s criticism? Or, CM Banerjee is eyeing her voters? &nbsp; For a chief, it is acceptable to not care about the Opposition&rsquo;s remarks. But can a mass leader afford to upset her voters? The latter, not by any chance. &nbsp; On closer analysis, the sudden change in CM Banerjee&rsquo;s decision can be perceived as a balancing act. There is, after all, no point in antagonising those sections of the society that largely stood by her even amid the poor show in 69 of the 125 civic areas of Bengal. &nbsp; &ldquo;The poorer sections of the urban, semi-urban, and peri-urban centres still voted for Trinamool in large numbers. The hawkers and vendors represent those sections. Each hawker or vendor affected by this impacts the voting pattern of five-seven, even 10-odd diligent voters of their family,&rdquo; said a ruling party insider. &nbsp; He has said if one goes micro to the extent of booth-level examination of the results in the 125 civic areas, it is clear that the slum-dwelling populations in civic wards backed Trinamool wholeheartedly. &nbsp; A senior on the Assembly treasury benches pointed out that encroachment by hawkers or vendors in urban spaces has been a perennial problem for decades, having proliferated during the Left regime.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
CM Banerjee made a career of standing by such sections whenever stern measures were taken&mdash; such as during the Kolkata Municipal Corporation&rsquo;s contentious Operation Sunshine in 1996. &nbsp; &ldquo;Now, this sudden U-turn (the Monday decision) goes against her very image. It was also strengthening the hands of the Opposition, which was throwing its weight behind the affected people,&rdquo; he said, referring to the support pledged by the Left and even the BJP on Wednesday. &nbsp; Didi&rsquo;s intervention without much ado gives one a way to believe that not too much damage has been done already by the crack down on encroachers. &nbsp; Moreover, her decision to not completely walk away from the decision and choosing to enforce a time-out in order to be more discreet about it appears like a well-thought plan, where her image both of a mass leader and the state government&rsquo;s chief remains intact. &nbsp; However, how much this pause on the eviction drive might make the encroachment problem critical continues to appear as the bone of contention.

West Bengal

CM Mamata Banerjee steps back & ‘Didi’ takes over

The Odisha government-run Academy of Tribal Languages and Culture (ATLC) has decided to set up an academic centre and language laboratory dedicated to the development of tribal languages and culture.
&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;">Nityananda Gond, Minister of ST and SC Development, Minorities &amp; Backward Classes Welfare Department, has directed the setting up of the new academic centre and language laboratory as part of the department&rsquo;s 100-day plan, an official statement on Friday 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;">According to the minister, the centre and language laboratory will come up at Gothapatna on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar, near the proposed Adivasi Bhawan.
<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;
The centre will serve as a multipurpose venue for meetings, conferences, shows, and exhibitions of tribal art and culture, the statement added.
&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;">ATLC, a premier autonomous institution under the ST, SC Development Department, was previously known as the Academy of Tribal Dialects and Culture (ATDC).
<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;
Established in 1979, it was later rechristened as ATLC during 2007-2008 and currently operates from the Adivasi Exhibition Ground in Bhubaneswar. 
&nbsp;

Odisha makes way to promote Tribal lang & Culture

The equity benchmark Sensex fell for the first time in seven days on Friday, ending its winning streak.
&nbsp;
The Nifty50 index also recorded its first loss in five days. Despite the day's decline, both indices reached new intraday record highs before closing lower.
&nbsp;
After reaching an intraday peak of 79,672, the Sensex closed at 79,033, down 210 points, or 0.3 percent. Similarly, the Nifty closed at 24,011, down 34 points, or 0.14 percent. The decline in banking stocks overshadowed gains in Reliance Industries (RIL), which saw its shares rise by 2.3 percent. Conversely, IndusInd Bank and Axis Bank each fell by over 2 percent.
&nbsp;
Over the week, the Sensex rose by 2.4 percent, while the Nifty gained 2.2 percent. RIL emerged as a standout performer, with its stock surging by 7.6 percent&mdash;its best weekly performance in two years driven by increases in mobile tariffs.
&nbsp;
The Nifty Private Bank index also saw a weekly rise of 1.02 percent.
&nbsp;
Siddhartha Khemka, head of retail research at Motilal Oswal Financial Services, commented on the market's outlook: &ldquo;We expect the positive momentum to continue steadily with stock-specific action. The release of economic data next week would add a little volatility."

Mumbai

Sensex six-day winning run ends, drops by 210 pts

Deputy National Security Adviser Vikram Misri, renowned for his expertise on China, has been appointed as India's next foreign secretary.
&nbsp;
The decision, approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, will see Misri assume office from July 15, succeeding Vinay Kwatra, who is expected to become India's ambassador to the US.
&nbsp;
Misri, a seasoned Indian Foreign Service officer of the 1989 batch, brings a wealth of diplomatic experience, having served as India's ambassador to China during a crucial period from 2019 to 2021.
&nbsp;
His tenure witnessed significant diplomatic engagements amidst strained relations following the Galwan Valley clashes in 2020.
&nbsp;
Throughout his distinguished career, Misri has held pivotal roles, including private secretary to three prime ministers&mdash;Gujral, Singh, and Modi&mdash;reflecting his deep-rooted understanding of national and international strategic dynamics.
&nbsp;
His diplomatic assignments also spanned across key nations such as Spain and Myanmar, alongside postings in Pakistan, the US, Germany, Belgium, and Sri Lanka.
&nbsp;
Misri's diplomatic finesse and strategic acumen are expected to guide India's foreign policy amidst evolving global challenges.
&nbsp;
In related developments, Jawed Ashraf, currently India's ambassador to France, is likely to assume the role of deputy NSA.
&nbsp;
The government is concurrently deliberating on appointments for India's ambassador to the US and the permanent representative to the United Nations, following recent retirements and vacancies.
&nbsp;
Vinay Kwatra, who received a six-month extension in March, is anticipated to take charge as India's ambassador to the US, succeeding Taranjit Sandhu.
&nbsp;
Additionally, the post of India's permanent representative to the UN remains vacant following Ruchira Kamboj's retirement this month.

Dy NSA Vikram Misri steps up as Foreign Secretary

Amid the ongoing NEET controversy gripping the nation, Gauhati University finds itself embroiled in a scandal involving tampering of marksheets for financial gain.
&nbsp;
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed the arrest of the main accused in what has become a widening probe into systemic malpractice at the university.
&nbsp;
During a visit to Barpeta, Chief Minister Sarma expressed deep concern over the extent of irregularities unearthed in the marksheet updating process.
&nbsp;
"Our investigation has uncovered serious discrepancies, indicating illicit manipulation of student marks for monetary gratification," he revealed.
&nbsp;
Initial findings point to the involvement of university personnel and a management firm entrusted with record-keeping duties, suggesting a complex web of complicity.
&nbsp;
The scandal surfaced following the detection of forged marks linked to Azizul Haque, a sixth-year undergraduate student at Ganeshlal Chaudhary College in Barpeta Road.
&nbsp;
Chief Minister Sarma assured rigorous efforts to uncover the full scope of the fraud, citing collaboration with law enforcement agencies.
&nbsp;
"Education Minister Ranoj Pegu has been briefed on developments and necessary action will be taken," CM Sarma added. 
The revelation has sparked widespread concern regarding academic assessments and the oversight mechanisms within Gauhati University. 
Authorities are set to meet with the university's Vice Chancellor to escalate efforts in bringing all perpetrators to account.

Guwahati

Marksheet fraud at Gauhati Uni, CM confirms arrest

Netflix on Friday announced what it called a &lsquo;desi gangster series&rsquo; on the OTT platform, titled Tribhuvan Mishra: CA Topper and starring Manav Kaul and Tillotama Shome in lead roles.
 Set to launch on the streaming platform on July 18, the show is produced by musician Ram Sampath and showrun by Puneet Krishna, a press release said.
&nbsp;
Tribhuvan Mishra: CA Topper will present the tale of an ordinary man&rsquo;s wild ride through chaos and secrets as he stumbles into a world of comedic mishaps and becomes the target of a dangerous gang of &lsquo;halwaais,&rsquo; the official plotline read.
&nbsp;
The series will also feature Shweta Basu Prasad, Sumit Gulati, Naresh Gosain, Naina Sareen, Faisal Malik and Ashok Pathak. It is directed by Amrit Raj with Krishna as co-director.
&nbsp;
"Tribhuvan Mishra's transformation, driven by desperation and the need to survive, gave us a rich canvas to play with themes of ethics, survival, and those tricky unintended consequences.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;Writing this series was all about striking the perfect balance between humour and the serious choices he has to make. I can&rsquo;t wait for everyone to meet Tribhuvan and his crazy world," Krishna said.
&nbsp;
"Our amazing ensemble cast really brought all the characters to life, adding so much depth and authenticity. And with Netflix's audience in 190 countries, it's awesome to think our mix of humor and desi drama will reach so many people worldwide. It's going to be a fun ride for everyone watching," he added.
&nbsp;
Sampath has also composed music for the series with background score by Anurag Saikia. Anuj Samtani is the cinematographer.&nbsp;

Now 'desi' gangsters to take over Netflix

Shweta Sengar

In one of the rainiest periods recorded in June, Delhi received 228.1 mm of rainfall in the past day, leading to waterlogging in various areas of the capital. Between 2.30 am and 5.30 am, Delhi experienced over 150 mm of rain.
&nbsp;
The highest amount of rainfall ever recorded in 24 hours at Safdarjung, Delhi's primary observatory, during the month of June was 235.5 mm on June 28, 1936.
&nbsp;
AAP MLA Somnath Bharti stated that this was the second-highest rainfall in the month of June in 88 years.
&nbsp;
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) officially confirmed that this is the first instance of Delhi experiencing over 228 mm of rain in 24 hours since 1966. According to the Met Department, Delhi typically receives 800 mm of rainfall during the entire monsoon, with 25 per cent of the total monsoon rainfall occurring in a 24-hour period.
&nbsp;
"Experts are saying that in 1936, there was 235 mm of rainfall in the month of June. Today, there was the second-highest rainfall of 228 mm in the month of June after 1936. The infrastructure is not designed to handle such heavy rain," Bharti said.
&nbsp;
The high water flow in the national capital caused drains to overflow.
&nbsp;
Social media posts shared visuals of inundated roads and severe traffic congestion in certain areas of Delhi.
&nbsp;
Due to severe waterlogging on Minto Road in Delhi, vehicles were submerged, and trucks were also engulfed in water at the Azad Market underpass.
&nbsp;
The Delhi Traffic Police reported that the Ring Road in both directions from Naraina to Moti Bagh was affected by waterlogging under the Dhaula Kuan flyover.

Delhi records 228.1 mm rain, highest since 1936

A total of 146 Indian students, including 75 females, have been granted the prestigious Erasmus Mundus scholarship for the academic years 2024-2026, announced the Delegation of the European Union to India on Friday.
&nbsp;
The scholarship, part of the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's programme, offers a two-year study programme jointly delivered by international consortia of higher education institutions.
&nbsp;
This year, 2,603 students from 137 countries have been selected for the programme.
&nbsp;
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's programme highlights its significant impact on students, higher education institutions, and countries worldwide, beyond the EU.
&nbsp;
India has emerged as the largest beneficiary of this programme, with over 2,000 students receiving scholarships since its inception in 2004.
&nbsp;
Over the years, more than 6,000 Erasmus+ scholarships have been awarded to Indian students, providing access to advanced education, research facilities, international exposure, and valuable professional networks.
&nbsp;
Herv&eacute; Delphin, Ambassador of the European Union to India, spotlighted the transformative opportunity this scholarship provides, fostering cultural exchange and enhancing bilateral ties between the EU and India. He expressed confidence that the selected students will excel and become ambassadors of this partnership.
 The selected students will pursue studies and research across a minimum of two universities in different European countries, earning joint or double degrees in fields ranging from sustainability, pharmaceuticals, engineering, quantum sciences, data sciences, to various STEM and social science disciplines.
&nbsp;
The fully funded scholarship covers European Union to India, and living allowances, ensuring a comprehensive support system for the recipients.
&nbsp;

EU's Erasmus Mundus scholarship for 146 Indians

Heavy rains lashed Shimla and surrounding areas on Friday with a landslide burying vehicles and the MeT department issuing an 'orange warning' indicating "very heavy rain", thunderstorms and lightning at isolated places in the state over the weekend.
 Earlier on Friday, debris from drains littered the roads at several places in Shimla and three vehicles parked near a drain in the Malyana area were buried in a landslide. No casualties were reported, officials said.
&nbsp;
The MeT also issued a 'yellow warning' of heavy rain, thunderstorms and lightning at isolated places on July 1 and 2 and predicted a wet spell in the state till July 4. Delayed by five days, the southwest monsoon had hit several parts of Himachal Pradesh on Thursday.
&nbsp;
The orange warning was issued for Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Sirmaur and Solan districts on Saturday and Sunday.
&nbsp;
In another incident, four roads -- two in Kangra and one each in Kinnaur and Kullu districts -- have been blocked for vehicular traffic following rains as per the state emergency operation centre.
&nbsp;
Rain lashed state capital Shimla and surrounding areas . Jubbarhatti in the suburbs recorded 36 mm of rain on Thursday evening while Shimla recorded 84 mm of rain.
&nbsp;
Gohar received 42 mm of rain, Mashobra 38 mm, Slapper 34.6 mm, Kufri and Shilaroo 24.2 mm, Sarahan and Berthin 22 mm each, Ghagas 18.8 mm, Karsog 18.2 mm, Kahu 16 mm and Pandoh 12 mm as per the data released by the MeT.
&nbsp;
The MeT has cautioned of damage to plantation, horticulture and standing crops, partial damage to vulnerable structures, minor damage to kutcha houses and huts due to strong winds and rain, disruption in traffic and waterlogging in low-lying areas.
 Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that reports of damage have also come in from Nerva near Chopal in Shimla district. "I request the people of the state to stay away from Rivers and drains as the level of water rises following cloudbursts which could prove fatal and people should take precautions.
&nbsp;
He said the state government was prepared to deal with any eventuality arising from monsoon. "All the field staff have been told to stay active and I am also taking stock of the situation", he added.
&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the state Public Works minister Vikramaditya Singh, who met the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Thursday, requested him to release Rs 150 Crore already announced by him for repairing PWD roads connecting the National Highways given the ensuing monsoon season.&nbsp;

Shimla

Landslide buries vehicles, orange alert in HP

The Delhi government will establish a 24-hour control centre to oversee the waterlogging situation in the national capital. Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj made this announcement on Friday following heavy rains, which marked the highest single-day rainfall in June in 88 years.
&nbsp;
After the city experienced heavy rainfall that led to waterlogging and significant traffic disruptions in various areas, Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj and his ministerial colleagues Atishi, Gopal Rai, and Imran Hussain held an emergency meeting in the afternoon to assess the situation.
&nbsp;
Due to the rain, a section of the roof of Delhi Airport's Terminal-1 collapsed, resulting in one fatality and six injuries.
&nbsp;
"Delhi recorded 228 mm of rainfall in the past 24 hours which was the highest since 1936. It led to waterlogging," Atishi told a press conference.
&nbsp;
Bharadwaj mentioned the establishment of a 24/7 control centre at the PWD headquarters, where senior officials will oversee the waterlogging situation.
&nbsp;
The Delhi government has initiated a WhatsApp chatbot with the number 8130188222 and a helpline with the number 1800110093 for reporting waterlogging complaints, he added.
&nbsp;
During the day, Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena assessed the situation in Delhi and instructed officials to establish an emergency control room and deploy static pumps to address waterlogging reports. At an emergency meeting, the LG instructed all senior officers on leave to return to duty immediately and prohibited leave for the next two months, as per his office.
&nbsp;
Saxena also acknowledged the lack of readiness and an emergency response system in the national capital, as per the LG office.
&nbsp;
The meeting was attended by high-ranking officials from civic agencies such as the Delhi Jal Board, Public Works Department, Municipal Corporation of Delhi, Delhi Development Authority, Irrigation and Flood Control Department, and the Delhi Police.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Saxena commented that the desilting of drains had not been finished and the Flood Control Order had not been issued yet. He urged the officials to prioritise desilting work over the next week.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The Irrigation and Flood Control department was instructed to stay in contact with their counterparts in Haryana and Himachal Pradesh to gauge rainfall levels and discharges from the Hathnikund barrage.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The LG directed the revenue department to activate the disaster response cell under the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) in case of excessive rainfall and to seek assistance from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) for any emergency measures during the monsoon.

Delhi sets up control room for waterlogging issues

The Western Ghats are bracing for heavy rains as the southwest monsoon intensifies, prompting the Tamil Nadu forest department to issue a tourist advisory for the Mancholai area until further notice. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted prolonged heavy rainfall across the Western Ghats in the coming days.
&nbsp;
Due to these weather conditions, tourists are strongly advised against visiting Mancholai. The forest department has cautioned that the area's roads are submerged under continuous downpour, severely impacting the movement of vehicles meant for tourism.
&nbsp;
In the Ambasamudram region of Nellai district, heavy rains have persisted for several days. The rising water levels in dams like Babanasam Servalalar Manimutthar are a direct result of this relentless rainfall.
&nbsp;
Areas such as Mancholai, Kakachi, Uthu, Nalu Moku, and Khor Vetti within the Western Ghats have reported significant rainfall, leading to localised flooding.
&nbsp;
Recent heavy rains in Pandalur and Gandalur areas of Nilgiri district prompted local authorities to declare a holiday on June 26. IMD has also warned of moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning in Nilgiris, Coimbatore's ghat areas, Tirunelveli, Virudunagar, Tenkasi, and Kanyakumari.
&nbsp;
The forest department remains vigilant as these weather patterns continue to affect the Western Ghats region, emphasising safety measures for both residents and tourists alike during this period of heightened rainfall.

Forest dept warns tourists of Western Ghats rains

The promised artificial intelligence revolution requires data. Lots and lots of data. OpenAI and Google have begun using YouTube videos to train their text-based AI models. But what does the YouTube archive actually include?&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Our team of digital media researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst collected and analysed random samples of YouTube videos to learn more about that archive. We published an 85-page paper about that dataset and set up a website called TubeStats for researchers and journalists who need basic information about YouTube.
&nbsp;
Now, we&rsquo;re taking a closer look at some of our more surprising findings to better understand how these obscure videos might become part of powerful AI systems. We&rsquo;ve found that many YouTube videos are meant for personal use or for small groups of people, and a significant proportion were created by children who appear to be under 13.
&nbsp;
Bulk of the YouTube iceberg&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Most people&rsquo;s experience of YouTube is algorithmically curated: Up to 70% of the videos users watch are recommended by the site&rsquo;s algorithms. Recommended videos are typically popular content such as influencer stunts, news clips, explainer videos, travel vlogs and video game reviews, while content that is not recommended languishes in obscurity.
&nbsp;
Some YouTube content emulates popular creators or fits into established genres, but much of it is personal: family celebrations, selfies set to music, homework assignments, video game clips without context and kids dancing. The obscure side of YouTube &ndash; the vast majority of the estimated 14.8 billion videos created and uploaded to the platform &ndash; is poorly understood.
&nbsp;
Illuminating this aspect of YouTube &ndash; and social media generally &ndash; is difficult because big tech companies have become increasingly hostile to researchers.
&nbsp;
We&rsquo;ve found that many videos on YouTube were never meant to be shared widely. We documented thousands of short, personal videos that have few views but high engagement &ndash; likes and comments &ndash; implying a small but highly engaged audience. These were clearly meant for a small audience of friends and family. Such social uses of YouTube contrast with videos that try to maximize their audience, suggesting another way to use YouTube: as a video-centered social network for small groups.
&nbsp;
Other videos seem intended for a different kind of small, fixed audience: recorded classes from pandemic-era virtual instruction, school board meetings and work meetings. While not what most people think of as social uses, they likewise imply that their creators have a different expectation about the audience for the videos than creators of the kind of content people see in their recommendations.
&nbsp;
Fuel for the AI machine&nbsp;
&nbsp;
It was with this broader understanding that we read The New York Times expos&eacute; on how OpenAI and Google turned to YouTube in a race to find new troves of data to train their large language models. An archive of YouTube transcripts makes an extraordinary dataset for text-based models.
&nbsp;
There is also speculation, fueled in part by an evasive answer from OpenAI&rsquo;s chief technology officer Mira Murati, that the videos themselves could be used to train AI text-to-video models such as OpenAI&rsquo;s Sora.
&nbsp;
The New York Times story raised concerns about YouTube&rsquo;s terms of service and, of course, the copyright issues that pervade much of the debate about AI. But there&rsquo;s another problem: How could anyone know what an archive of more than 14 billion videos, uploaded by people all over the world, actually contains? It&rsquo;s not entirely clear that Google knows or even could know if it wanted to.
&nbsp;
Kids as content creators&nbsp;
&nbsp;
We were surprised to find an unsettling number of videos featuring kids or apparently created by them. YouTube requires uploaders to be at least 13 years old, but we frequently saw children who appeared to be much younger than that, typically dancing, singing or playing video games.
&nbsp;
In our preliminary research, our coders determined nearly a fifth of random videos with at least one person&rsquo;s face visible likely included someone under 13. We didn&rsquo;t take into account videos that were clearly shot with the consent of a parent or guardian.
&nbsp;
Our current sample size of 250 is relatively small &ndash; we are working on coding a much larger sample &ndash; but the findings thus far are consistent with what we&rsquo;ve seen in the past. We&rsquo;re not aiming to scold Google. Age validation on the internet is infamously difficult and fraught, and we have no way of determining whether these videos were uploaded with the consent of a parent or guardian. But we want to underscore what is being ingested by these large companies&rsquo; AI models.
&nbsp;
Small reach, big influence&nbsp;
&nbsp;
It&rsquo;s tempting to assume OpenAI is using highly produced influencer videos or TV newscasts posted to the platform to train its models, but previous research on large language model training data shows that the most popular content is not always the most influential in training AI models. A virtually unwatched conversation between three friends could have much more linguistic value in training a chatbot language model than a music video with millions of views.
&nbsp;
Unfortunately, OpenAI and other AI companies are quite opaque about their training materials: They don&rsquo;t specify what goes in and what doesn&rsquo;t. Most of the time, researchers can infer problems with training data through biases in AI systems&rsquo; output. But when we do get a glimpse at training data, there&rsquo;s often cause for concern. For example, Human Rights Watch released a report on June 10, 2024, that showed that a popular training dataset includes many photos of identifiable kids.
&nbsp;
The history of big tech self-regulation is filled with moving goalposts. OpenAI in particular is notorious for asking for forgiveness rather than permission and has faced increasing criticism for putting profit over safety.
&nbsp;
Concerns over the use of user-generated content for training AI models typically center on intellectual property, but there are also privacy issues. YouTube is a vast, unwieldy archive, impossible to fully review.
&nbsp;
Models trained on a subset of professionally produced videos could conceivably be an AI company&rsquo;s first training corpus. But without strong policies in place, any company that ingests more than the popular tip of the iceberg is likely including content that violates the Federal Trade Commission&rsquo;s Children&rsquo;s Online Privacy Protection Rule, which prevents companies from collecting data from children under 13 without notice.
&nbsp;
With last year&rsquo;s executive order on AI and at least one promising proposal on the table for comprehensive privacy legislation, there are signs that legal protections for user data in the US might become more robust.
&nbsp;
Have you unwittingly helped train ChatGPT?&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The intentions of a YouTube uploader simply aren&rsquo;t as consistent or predictable as those of someone publishing a book, writing an article for a magazine or displaying a painting in a gallery. But even if YouTube&rsquo;s algorithm ignores your upload and it never gets more than a couple of views, it may be used to train models like ChatGPT and Gemini.
&nbsp;
As far as AI is concerned, your family reunion video may be just as important as those uploaded by influencer giant Mr. Beast or CNN.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
This article first appeared in The Conversation

Are family videos on YouTube training AI models?

In preparation for the two-month-long Amarnath Yatra that began on Friday, Indian Railways has decided to increase train services to Jammu and introduce new trains starting from July 3 to accommodate the influx of pilgrims.
&nbsp;
Railway sources have confirmed that the frequency of two special festival trains operating between New Delhi and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra will be increased.
&nbsp;
"To facilitate the convenience of pilgrims visiting Jammu from across the country, Indian Railways has announced an increase in the frequency of two festival special trains running from Jammu," said a railway official.
&nbsp;
A total of 18 additional trips for train number 04075-04076 New Delhi-Shri Mata Vaishno Devi-New Delhi reserved festival special train have been scheduled.
&nbsp;
This train will now run from July 3 to August 1, departing from New Delhi Railway Station every Wednesday and Sunday, and from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station every Thursday and Monday.
&nbsp;
Additionally, a new train service will commence from New Delhi on July 3 and from Katra on July 4.
&nbsp;
The train will have stops at Sonipat, Panipat, Karnal, Kurukshetra Junction, Ambala Cantt, Jalandhar Cantt, Pathankot Cantt, Jammu Tawi, and Shaheed Captain Tushar Mahajan Udhampur railway stations on both its routes.
&nbsp;
"The weekly special train running between Safdarjung and Shaheed Captain Tushar Mahajan Udhampur (station) will make five additional trips starting from July 1 until July 30," the official added.
&nbsp;
Train number 04141 will depart from Safdarjung Railway Station every Monday, while train number 04142 will leave Shaheed Captain Tushar Mahajan Udhampur Railway Station every Tuesday.
&nbsp;
By providing additional trips and launching new trains, the Railways aim to ensure that pilgrims have reliable and comfortable transportation options throughout the pilgrimage season.
&nbsp;

Railways to run special trains for Amarnath Yatra

Meghalaya's 76-year-old marathon enthusiast, Kmoin Wahlang, has been selected to represent India at the prestigious 13th Pan Pacific Masters Games 2024 in Gold Coast, Australia.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Her participation has garnered full support from the Meghalaya government, which has pledged to cover all expenses related to her journey and participation in the event.
&nbsp;
Wahlang, known for her resilient spirit and athletic prowess, expressed her determination to bring home a gold medal from the upcoming competition.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&ldquo;I will strive to bring back a gold medal if I get there,&rdquo; she had said.
&nbsp;
Her journey to the international stage began after her impressive performance at a national event in Hyderabad earlier this year, catching the attention of the Pan India Masters Games Federation.
&nbsp;
Accompanied by Meghalaya Sports Minister Shakliar Warjri, Wahlang recently met with Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma to discuss her preparations and upcoming challenges in Australia.
&nbsp;
Taking to social media, state Sports Minister Warjri wrote, "I'm pleased to announce that we assured her the government would extend support for her upcoming race. We hope she brings medals for our state and country."
&nbsp;
Departing for Australia on October 29, Wahlang's participation in the Pan Pacific Masters Games would include events such as the 800m, 1500m, and 3000m races.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Her itinerary for the event, featuring multiple events in the 75-plus age category, will be finalised after the closure of entries on October 18, 2024.
&nbsp;
Her selection for the Indian athletics team is dedicated to her commitment and past achievements in marathons across India, including Mumbai, Kolkata, Guwahati, and her home state of Meghalaya.
&nbsp;
Wahlang's athletic journey began as a response to health challenges following the birth of her 12th child.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Starting with walking due to a lack of running shoes, she soon embraced running and has since completed marathons nationwide.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Supported by the RUNMeghalaya Association (RMA), Wahlang has participated in prestigious events like the Pinkathon and Tata Mumbai Marathon, setting records as the oldest female participant in the 42K run.
&nbsp;
Her achievements resonate deeply within the Khasi community of Meghalaya's Mawkyrwat region, known for their historical prowess in long-distance running akin to Mexico's Tarahumara tribe.&nbsp;

Shillong

Meghalaya's 76-year-old readies for Pacific Games

Vats Ambardar

Owing to heavy rains in the coastal regions of Karnataka, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for fishermen till June 29.
&nbsp;
Stating that squally weather with wind speeds of 35 kmph to 45 kmph, gusting to 55 kmph, is likely to prevail till June 29, the IMD reiterated its warning to fishermen, asking them not to enter the sea.
&nbsp;
It has also issued high wave alerts for the coast of Dakshina Kannada (Mulki to Mangalore) Udupi (Baindur to Kapu) and Uttara Kannada (Majali to Bhatkal).
&nbsp;
With high waves in the range of 2.9 m to 3. 7m till June 29, the Met Centre advised caution while doing marine operations and nearshore recreations.
&nbsp;
Stating that waterlogging and flooding of low-lying areas as well as mudslides and rock falls are possible, it has warned people to avoid areas prone to flash
floods and be prepared for power outages and traffic disruptions.
&nbsp;
According to its report, Bengaluru is likely to receive very light rain, with temperatures varying from 26.4 degrees Celsius to 21.3 degrees Celsius tomorrow.
In Karnataka, Agumbe has received the highest rainfall at 81.5 mm on June 27 and Bengaluru city the lowest at 0.1mm.
&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Bengaluru&rsquo;s water expert and one of the founders of Biome Trust, S Vishwanath, who tracks the reservoir inflow on 'X' has pointed out that there has been a good inflow in Kaveri basin.
&nbsp;
"Kabini roars in," he posted on the social media on June 27 from his handle @zenrainman. He had also observed earlier that Kabini will be the first reservoir to fill up as it&rsquo;s a small reservoir with a large rainy catchment area.
&nbsp;
As per Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre, as on June 28, water inflow to Kabini stands at 20,113 cusecs.
&nbsp;
Another 'X' user, who too tracks weather in the state through his handle Namma Karnataka Weather (@namma_vjy) has pointed out that the water level has started receding in Bhagamandala Triveni Sangama.
&nbsp;
"Intensity of rain has reduced all across Kodagu and repo areas in north Kerala. Big rains are again possible during the next surge in July. So next few days are likely to provide light to moderate showers across Kodagu," he posted on 'X'.&nbsp;

Bengaluru

IMD issues high wave alert for coastal Karnataka

Google has expanded its translation services to include Khasi, one of the primary languages of Meghalaya, as part of a major update to Google Translate.
&nbsp;
This addition, along with 109 other languages, marks a significant step in bridging communication gaps for millions worldwide.
&nbsp;
The inclusion of Khasi is expected to greatly enhance the experience of tourists visiting Meghalaya.
&nbsp;
Visitors will now be able to more easily navigate local areas, communicate with residents, and understand cultural nuances, potentially leading to increased tourism in the region.
&nbsp;
Google's latest update to its translation service incorporates a diverse range of languages, from widely spoken tongues with over 100 million speakers to those used by small Indigenous communities.
&nbsp;
This expansion, powered by artificial intelligence (AI), will enable translations for an additional 614 million speakers globally, representing about 8% of the world's population.
&nbsp;
Among the newly added languages are Cantonese and several African languages.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The company spotlighted that some of the included languages have few native speakers but are part of active revitalisation efforts.
&nbsp;
This update not only facilitates easier communication for travelers but also plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting lesser-known languages.
&nbsp;
For Meghalaya and other regions with newly added languages, this development could lead to improved cultural exchange and economic opportunities through enhanced tourism accessibility.

Meghalaya's Khasi language now on Google translate

VK Saxena, the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, convened an urgent meeting today involving key government agencies such as Delhi Jal Board (DJB), Public Works Department (PWD), Irrigation and Flood Control Department (IFC), Delhi Police, Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), National Disaster Management Control (NDMC), and Delhi Development Authority (DDA).
&nbsp;
The meeting was prompted by the escalating water logging situation, overflowing drains, and clogged sewer lines exacerbated by pre-monsoon rains in the city.
&nbsp;
The focus of the meeting was to assess the city's readiness and response capabilities, especially as the monsoon season has yet to fully set in. The Lieutenant Governor expressed concern over the inadequate emergency response preparedness and highlighted unfinished desilting works and the absence of Flood Control directives.
&nbsp;
During the session, 11 directives were issued for immediate implementation. These included setting up a 24&times;7 emergency control room with a dedicated public reporting hotline for waterlogging incidents, deploying mobile pumps, issuing regular advisories by traffic police during waterlogging episodes, and maintaining close coordination with Haryana and upper Himachal Pradesh for rainfall assessments and Hathnikund barrage discharges.
&nbsp;
Earlier today, residents navigated through waterlogged streets across various parts of the city, while BJP councillor Ravinder Singh Negi made a symbolic protest by rowing an inflatable boat on NH9.
&nbsp;
According to the Indian Meteorological Department, the Safdarjung observatory recorded 228mm of rainfall by 8:30 a.m., marking the second-highest 24-hour June rainfall in Delhi's history. The record for highest June rainfall remains 235.55 mm, set on June 28, 1936.
&nbsp;
The emergency meeting underscored the urgent need for proactive measures and swift actions to mitigate the impact of monsoon rains on Delhi's infrastructure and residents.

Delhi LG calls urgent meet over city's water woes

Technology is a golden thread binding an organisation's work to its future vision, and the power of artificial intelligence (AI) can strengthen this thread, says Tech Mahindra chairman Anand Mahindra.
 Penning his thoughts in the annual report 2023-24 of IT services and consultation company Tech Mahindra, the billionaire businessman said it was impossible to talk about any business today without talking about technology.
&nbsp;
"Technology is the Golden Thread that binds what an organisation is doing today with the future world it is trying to create. Across multi-business organisations, it enables synergy and creates unexpected business connections. Across industries, it creates collaboration and transformation," he wrote.
&nbsp;
Mahindra, 69, said the future belongs to those who can creatively weave this Golden Thread into a value-enhancing business tapestry.
&nbsp;
He said IT services will play a pivotal role in enhancing Golden Thread by integrating AI seamlessly into the core business functions.
&nbsp;
"From extracting data-driven insights to solving industry-specific problems to revolutionising customer engagement, the synergy between IT and AI will enable a new era of technological prowess...
&nbsp;
"...the future undoubtedly belongs to IT services that can increase the value of that Golden Thread from 18 carat to 24 carat with the power of AI," he said.
&nbsp;
He said the winners will be companies that are agile, well-prepared and can "Scale at Speed" (a promise that Tech Mahindra has positioned itself on time and again).
&nbsp;
"Even without a crystal ball, I can venture to predict that Tech Mahindra, under its new leadership, is well-positioned to leap into this new orbit," Mahindra said, basing his optimism on three factors, according to PTI.
&nbsp;
He said tackling changes requires preparation, and both speed and scale.
&nbsp;
"Tech Mahindra has made Scale at Speed their promise and war cry. A holistic 3-year roadmap for achieving profitable growth, covering every aspect of the organisation -- be it structure, strategy, technology, client focus, skill development, talent management, performance enhancement -- has been shared with investors. The future landscape is clearly mapped out, and actions are clearly communicated," he said.
&nbsp;
He expressed confidence in Tech Mahindra's past record, its preparedness, and the "enormous" experience of the new leadership.
&nbsp;
Tech Mahindra MD and CEO Mohit Joshi took charge in December last year, taking the helm from CP Gurnani, who retired after serving the IT major for 19 years.
&nbsp;
"During his 19 years with the Company, over 11 of which were as the MD and CEO, MBT (Mahindra British Telecom) morphed into Tech Mahindra; the business vision expanded from the telecom business to a multi-vertical digitally led IT company whose revenue rose 22 times from USD 280 million in 2006 to USD 6.3 billion in 2024," Mahindra wrote, remembering CP, as he was famously called.
&nbsp;
IT services will evolve to become the interface between the potential of AI and its business application, he added, saying that professionals who can understand, interpret, leverage, and exploit the new powerhouse of AI will be the most in demand.
 "Tech Mahindra has an edge few other companies have. It is the child of a multi-business corporation.
&nbsp;
"The Mahindra Group itself is their real-time playing field and proving ground to sharpen their skills -- if anyone knows how to find the golden thread, how to embroider it across businesses, and how to weave the future with it, it is Tech Mahindra," said Mahindra, who is also the chairman of Mumbai-based conglomerate Mahindra Group.
&nbsp;
Rumours that the advent of AI will be the death of IT services are grossly exaggerated, he said.
&nbsp;
"AI will push these services towards a new frontier, into directions that were hitherto unimaginable -- and Tech Mahindra will be in the vanguard," he said.&nbsp;

AI can secure future of businesses: Anand Mahindra

Amid an impasse over the oath-taking of two newly elected Trinamool Congress MLAs, the office of West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose on Friday criticised Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her remarks suggesting women allegedly felt unsafe going to Raj Bhavan, stating it is expected of public representatives not to create &ldquo;erroneous and slanderous impressions&rdquo;.
&nbsp;
Baranagar MLA Sayantika Bandyopadhyay and Bhagabangola legislator Rayat Hossain Sarkar have refused to take oath at Raj Bhavan as requested by Bose, instead staging a dharna in the assembly complex since Thursday, insisting that the swearing in take place in the Vidhan Sabha.
&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 is expected of public representatives to uphold Constitution and refrain from creating erroneous and slanderous impressions that may cast aspersions on the Governor,&rdquo; the Raj Bhavan said on X.
<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;">Stating that Bose has no right to prevent the oath-taking process, Banerjee had alleged on Thursday that she received complaints from women who felt unsafe going to Raj Bhavan after reports of certain activities there.
<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;">Referring to allegations of molestation of a woman in the Governor House in May, actor-turned-politician Sayantika Bandopadhyay on Thursday said, &ldquo;My family members won&rsquo;t allow me to go to Raj Bhavan alone as they are also aware of reports of a woman being molested there. Who will take the responsibility of my safety and security?&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;
A political storm had erupted in May over a complaint by a Raj Bhavan woman employee who had accused the Governor of &ldquo;molesting&rdquo; her, even as Bose had dubbed the allegations as &ldquo;baseless and absurd drama&rdquo;.
&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 Governor&rsquo;s office clarified that the newly elected MLAs had initially requested a venue shift to the Assembly due to personal preferences but had not raised any specific safety concerns about Raj Bhavan otherwise.
<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;The newly elected MLAs had requested Hon'ble Governor to consider shifting the venue to the Assembly because of their personal preferences and never expressed any apprehensions about coming to Raj Bhavan otherwise,&rdquo; the post 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;">When the MLAs declined the governor&rsquo;s invitation to take the oath at Raj Bhavan on Wednesday, Bose left for Delhi the same evening.
<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;">Stating that Bandyopadhyay and Sarkar were unable to take the oath despite having got elected a month back, the Chief Minister accused the Governor of obstructing them from doing so.
<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 Raj Bhavan post, however, said all issues are addressed by the Governor with promptitude and constitutional propriety as also this one.
<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;Responses unjustifiably critical of the Governor was least expected from an experienced public representative,&rdquo; it said.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Kolkata

Mamata's remarks on women's safety erroneous: Gov

The Sikkim Transport Department has announced the implementation of a cashless digital payment system for bus bookings, in a move aimed at reducing cash transactions and streamlining the booking process for passengers.
&nbsp;
According to a statement by the department, the decision aligns with its objective to modernise the booking experience.
&nbsp;
The department has introduced multiple digital payment options for booking Sikkim Nationalised Transport (SNT) buses. These include:
<ol>
<li>
UPI payment via Paytm Soundbox: All booking counters across Sikkim, including the Siliguri office, are now equipped with Paytm Soundbox devices. Passengers can make payments by scanning the QR codes provided on these devices.
</li>
<li>
UPI payment via Paytm stickers: Paytm stickers with QR codes have been affixed to all SNT buses, enabling passengers to scan and pay directly.
</li>
<li>
Debit/Credit card payment: Point of Sale (PoS) machines are available at the Gangtok and Siliguri booking offices. Passengers can pay by swiping their debit or credit cards or by scanning the QR codes on these devices.
</li>
<li>
Online bus ticket booking: Passengers can book tickets online through platforms such as RedBus, PhonePe, and their affiliated service providers.
</li>
<li>
Online bus ticket booking through SIKKIM CAB mobile app: The SIKKIM CAB Mobile App offers an online booking option for bus tickets, enhancing convenience for passengers.
</li>
</ol>
In a related development, the Sikkim government has announced the launch of the Sikkim Cab mobile app for online taxi booking on a &ldquo;sharing basis&rdquo; between Gangtok and Siliguri.
&nbsp;
This initiative is in response to recent tourist complaints about &ldquo;exploitative&rdquo; cab rates in Sikkim.
&nbsp;
The motor vehicle division of the transport department will soon roll out the Sikkim Cab app, featuring a special category for shared bookings between Gangtok, Siliguri, Bagdogra, and NJP.
&nbsp;
Under this system, different passengers will share the vehicle, with seating limited to five passengers.
&nbsp;
The transport department has invited interested parties to enlist their vehicles for the shared service.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;Interested owners and drivers of luxury and maxi cab vehicles are requested to provide their details to the transport department as soon as possible,&rdquo; a source from the department stated.
&nbsp;
The vehicles must not be older than 10 years. Luxury vehicles can charge ₹1,000 per passenger, while maxi cabs can charge ₹400 per seat.

Gangtok

Sikkim bus bookings now cashless and digital

Amarpreet Kaur

Chandigarh administration has permitted shops and commercial establishments registered with the labour department to open now round-the-clock, a move aimed at promoting ease of business.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"The female employees will not be allowed to work after 8 pm, but in case they are (willing) then their written consent in this regard shall be taken and adequate safety and security arrangements of such employees shall be made during working hours," according to a recent order issued by the administration here.
&nbsp;
According to the order dated June 25, all the shops and commercial establishments which are registered under the Punjab Shops and Commercial Establishment Act, 1958 (as applicable to the Union Territory of Chandigarh), in Chandigarh are permitted to keep open on all 365 days and operate 24 hours.
&nbsp;
According to an official statement, the move is to promote ease of doing business. It is also to simplify labour laws and regulations regarding opening and closing timings and operations on all days of the week. Further, it is for the benefit of traders and shopkeepers in Chandigarh.
&nbsp;
However, liquor vends and bar or pub timings will remain as earlier, as they are regulated by the excise laws.
&nbsp;
Secretary-cum-Labour Commissioner Vinay Pratap Singh said the administration is conscious of the welfare and ease of doing business needs of all shopkeepers and traders of Chandigarh and thus, this benefit of extended hours throughout the year has been granted to the registered shops.
&nbsp;
According to the order, the female employees shall be provided separate lockers, security, and restrooms at the workplace.
&nbsp;
For females who give their consent to work during night hours, the order stated that it shall be ensured that they reach their homes safely after their work is over.
&nbsp;
The management or employer has to ensure certain conditions for the women employees including adequate safety, proper transportation, annual self-defence workshops, and implementation of other guidelines and rules as specified by the labour department from time to time, states the order.
&nbsp;
Adequate safety and security arrangements shall be ensured for all employees and visitors by the management, it said.
&nbsp;
For all the employees working in the shops and commercial establishments, a provision of one day rest in a week and a rest period of at least 30 minutes after five hours of continuous work has to be given. No employee shall be required to work for more than nine hours in a day or 48 hours in a week, as per the order.
CCTV cameras with a minimum of 15 days' recording backup shall be installed on the shop or commercial establishment premises for safety purpose.&nbsp;

Chandigarh

Chandigarh shops to remain open 24/7

Aam Aadmi Party MP Sanjay Singh criticised the central government sharply following widespread infrastructure failures across India after heavy rainfall. Singh pointedly highlighted Ayodhya's predicament, emphasising that even minor rainfall caused water to enter the revered Ram Mandir's Garbhagriha, displeasing the temple's main priest.
&nbsp;
He underscored other instances of infrastructure collapse, including the Atal Setu Bridge, Jabalpur terminal, and the Bundelkhand Expressway, noting that Ayodhya, touted by the Centre for development, was left waterlogged. Singh also condemned the collapse of Delhi Airport's Terminal 1, inaugurated by PM Modi in March, attributing it to alleged corruption within the BJP.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;Our government in Delhi is actively addressing the issue of waterlogging,&rdquo; Singh added, responding to concerns about ongoing challenges in the national capital.
&nbsp;
In Delhi, Mayor Shelly Oberoi remarked that despite initial challenges with the monsoon's arrival, significant improvements had been made in managing waterlogging compared to previous incidents. Municipal departments and officials have been actively addressing affected areas to prevent future occurrences and ensure public safety.
&nbsp;
Meanwhile, heavy rainfall brought relief from a prolonged heat wave in Delhi but also led to significant waterlogging in various parts of the city, disrupting traffic and affecting daily life for residents and commuters.
&nbsp;
Instances of people navigating through inundated streets highlighted the severity of the situation, with BJP Councillor Ravinder Singh Negi resorting to rowing an inflatable boat on NH9 in protest.
&nbsp;
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the Safdarjung observatory recorded 228 mm of rainfall, marking one of the highest 24-hour rainfalls in June. The historical record of 235.5 mm, set on June 28, 1936, remains the highest for the city.
&nbsp;
At Indira Gandhi International Airport, a portion of Terminal 1's roof collapsed early in the morning, resulting in one fatality and injuries to eight others, according to the Delhi Fire Services.
&nbsp;

Ayodhya waterlogged after rain, AAP criticises BJP

At least 60 Indian nationals, part of a group alleged to be engaged in online financial scams, have been arrested by Sri Lanka's Criminal Investigations Department (CID).
 They were arrested on Thursday from the Colombo suburbs of Madiwela and Battaramulla and the western coastal town of Negombo.
&nbsp;
According to Police Spokesman SSP Nihal Thalduwa, the CID conducted simultaneous raids in these areas, leading to the seizure of 135 mobile phones and 57 laptops.
&nbsp;
The crackdown follows a complaint from a victim who was lured into a WhatsApp group in which cash was promised for social media interactions.
&nbsp;
Investigation revealed a scheme in which victims were coerced into making deposits after initial payments. In Peradeniya, a father-son duo admitted to aiding the fraudsters, Daily Mirror Lanka newspaper reported, according to PTI.
&nbsp;
Key evidence uncovered during a luxury house raid in Negombo led to the initial arrest of 13 suspects and the seizure of 57 phones and computers.
&nbsp;
Subsequent operations in Negombo yielded 19 additional arrests, exposing international links in Dubai and Afghanistan. Victims included both locals and foreigners, the report added.
&nbsp;
It is suspected that they were involved in financial fraud, illegal betting and various activities of gambling.&nbsp;

Colombo

60 Indians held in Lanka for cyber scams

Kathua/Jammu, June 28 : Describing the Jammu and Kashmir Police as a sword in the fight against terror, its chief R R Swain on Friday said no war against a terror ecosystem can be won without the police.
&nbsp;
Pointing to a series of recent terror attacks in the Union Territory, the DGP said terrorists can neither defeat the force nor diminish its resolve.
&nbsp;
He made the remarks at an event to regularise nine special police officers to the rank of constables, recognizing their contributions in eliminating two terrorists in the Hiranagar border belt of Kathua district.
&nbsp;
"The Jammu and Kashmir Police is like a sword against the terror ecosystem. If this sword, which belongs to the people, is not properly maintained, victory in this war against terrorism cannot be achieved," Swain said.
&nbsp;
He said the Union government has also realised the importance of the police and is working to support them accordingly.
&nbsp;
Two terrorists and a CRPF jawan were killed while a civilian was injured in an encounter between security forces and militants in Saida Sukhal village in Kathua district's Hiranagar area near the International Border on June 12.
&nbsp;
The DGP said while terrorists may inflict some harm, they cannot defeat the police forces and their resolve. "Rest assured, we will defeat them. It is our resolve," Swain said.
&nbsp;
He also said the police are well-equipped with advanced weaponry, including arms from Israel and Germany. "We have no weaknesses as far as arms are concerned," the DGP said.&nbsp;
 
&nbsp;

Jammu

JK police like a sword against terror: DGP

parvesh_kapoor

The first batch of pilgrims for the annual Amarnath Yatra reached the Kashmir valley on Friday amid stringent security arrangements, officials said. &nbsp;
&nbsp;
After they arrived in Srinagar, senior officials in police and civil administration, and local people welcomed the 4,603 pilgrims at the Navyug tunnel in the Qazigund area of south Kashmir's Kulgam district, they added.
&nbsp;
The 52-day pilgrimage will begin from the twin tracks - the traditional 48-km Nunwan-Pahalgam route in Anantnag and the 14-km Baltal route in Ganderbal - on Saturday and conclude on August 19.
&nbsp;
Amid chants of "Bum Bum Bhole" and "Har Har Mahadev", Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the first batch from the Yatri Niwas base camp at Bhagwati Nagar in Jammu early Friday morning.
&nbsp;
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha wished the pilgrims a safe journey.
 "May the blessings of Baba Amarnath ji bring peace, happiness, and prosperity to everyone's life," he said.
&nbsp;
They reached Srinagar in a cavalcade of 231 light and heavy vehicles, the officials said.
&nbsp;
Kulgam Deputy Commissioner (DC) Athar Aamir Khan told reporters that upon their arrival, the pilgrims who would travel via both the axis, Baltal as well as Pahalgam, were welcomed by the administration, members of civil society, trade fraternity, fruit growers, and market associations.
 "We welcome all of them. There are proper arrangements in place for them," Khan said.
&nbsp;
The officials said the pilgrim convoys left separately for the base camps in Baltal and Pahalgam from where they will go for the 3,880-metre-high holy cave shrine early on Saturday.
&nbsp;
Comprehensive arrangements, including three-tier security, area dominations, elaborate route deployment, and checkpoints, have been made to ensure a smooth yatra, a senior official stated.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"Traffic restrictions will be imposed on various routes from June 28 to August 19, with daily advisories issued to minimise inconvenience," the official said.
&nbsp;
According to reports, more than 3.50 lakh people have registered for this year's yatra. As many as 125 community kitchens (langars) have been set up along the two routes to the cave shrine and are supported by over 6,000 volunteers.

Srinagar

First batch of Amarnath pilgrims arrives in valley

In a bid to modernise agricultural production techniques in the state, Tripura&rsquo;s Agriculture Minister Ratan Lal Nath announced on Friday the state's initiative to integrate drone technology into its agricultural sector. Women's Self-Help Groups (SHGs) will be trained to operate these drones for various farming tasks. 
Minister Nath, addressing the media after inaugurating the Agriculture Development Research and Training Centre at Killa in Gomati district, said that the integration of drone technology aims to tackle specific agricultural challenges. "Within the next few months, we will see the deployment of drones in our agriculture sector. This initiative, known as the 'Drone Didi' scheme, is particularly designed for women," he stated. 
Women's Self-Help Groups (SHGs) will be trained to operate these drones for various farming tasks. Following this launch, Tripura established a state committee to oversee the implementation. Based on the committee&rsquo;s recommendations, drones will be distributed to agricultural sub-divisions. 
"The trainers have already been recruited. We expect drones to be available in each of the 47 agri-subdivisions within two months," Nath informed. The drones will be used for tasks such as spraying fertilizers and pesticides in fruit and flower gardens. 
Additionally, Nath announced a special scheme to appoint "Krishi Sakhis" (Friends of Farmers), who will provide agricultural solutions to farmers in rural areas. "One Sakhi will be appointed for each rural local body, including Gram Panchayats and Village Committees. We have forwarded the proposal to the central government and are awaiting approval. Once approved, the appointment process will commence immediately," he added.

Agartala

Women SHGs to operate 'Agri-Drones' in Tripura

Dashing India opener Shafali Verma smashed the fastest double-century in the history of women's Test cricket, eclipsing Annabel Sutherland of Australia during the one-off Test against South Africa here on Friday.
&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;">Shafali, 20, scored her double tonne off just 194 balls, bettering Sutherland's feat, which came off 248 balls against South Africa earlier this year.
<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;">Shafali also became the second Indian after former skipper Mithali Raj to hit a double century in Test cricket after almost 22 long years.
<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;">Mithali's 214 had come off 407 balls and the former India skipper achieved during the drawn second Test against England at Taunton in August, 2002.
<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;">Shafali struck 23 fours and eight maximums during her attacking knock.
<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;">She brought up her twin ton with consecutive sixes of off-spinner Delmi Tucker, followed by a single.
<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;">Shafali was finally run out at 205 off 197 balls.
<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;">Besides, her opening partner Smriti Mandhana also made an attacking 149 off 161 balls with the help of 27 boundaries and one six to stitch a formidable opening partnership of 292 runs, which came off in just 52 overs.
<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;">India are going great guns against South Africa on the opening day scoring at close to a run-a-ball. 
&nbsp;

Chennai

Shafali smashes fastest double-centurion in Test

<h4 dir="ltr">Nag Ashwin's 3D spectacle "Kalki 2898 AD" registered a record opening at the global box office, earning Rs 191.5 crore gross on day one of its release, the makers said on Friday.</h4>
Touted as a marriage of Hindu epic Mahabharata and science fiction, the big-budget film is produced by Vyjayanthi Movies and was released on Thursday in six languages: Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, Hindi and English.
&nbsp;
It features a star cast led by Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan and Kamal Haasan, along with Disha Patani, Saswata Chatterjee and Shobhana.
&nbsp;
Vyjayanthi Movies shared the opening day figure of the movie on its official X page through a poster which stated that "Kalki 2898 AD" earned Rs 191.5 crore in gross box office collection (GBOC).
&nbsp;
The film's day-one earnings is the third-highest opening day collection for any Indian film. It is behind SS Rajamouli's "RRR" (Rs 223 crores) and "Baahubali 2" (Rs 217 crores), which also featured Prabhas in the lead role.
&nbsp;
On Thursday, trade pundits had predicted that the film might earn around Rs 200 crore globally on its opening day.
&nbsp;
Previously titled "Project K", it is arguably the most expensive feature film in Indian cinema history at a reported Rs 600 crore.
&nbsp;
Large crowds were seen outside theatres in several cities, including Hyderabad and Mumbai. The initial reviews were also favourable.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

‘Kalki 2898 AD’ earns a massive ₹191.5 cr on day 1

As the sun sets over Barbados this Saturday, Indian cricket fans may witness a poignant chapter in the saga of two modern legends.
&nbsp;
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, whose careers have intertwined to form the backbone of Indian cricket, might be playing their final T20I in Indian colours.&nbsp; This potential farewell in the game's shortest format comes at a time when the nation eagerly looks to the future, setting the stage for a poignant and nostalgic farewell. 
No fan wants to see Rohit Sharma, the 'Hitman,' walk off the field with tears brimming in his eyes. Nor do they wish to recall the vacant stare of Virat Kohli, the 'King,' gazing at the ODI World Cup trophy a few months ago. Instead, what every supporter dreams of is a spectacular last dance from these cricketing maestros, a final display of their brilliance in the T20I format.
 Understanding the current dynamics of Indian cricket, it&rsquo;s evident that the BCCI and national selectors are ready to usher in a new era.
&nbsp;
The upcoming series against Zimbabwe is set to mark this transition, with a keen eye on the 2026 T20 World Cup in India.
&nbsp;
By then, a 39-year-old Rohit and a 38-year-old Kohli may no longer fit into the team&rsquo;s plans, necessitating a timely and graceful exit from the format.
&nbsp;
A quiet retirement?
&nbsp;
With the focus firmly on winning the final, discussions around retirement are hushed.
&nbsp;
Yet, insiders believe that a victory over South Africa in Barbados will signify the end of an era for Rohit and Kohli in T20Is.
&nbsp;
There might not be a grand announcement, as both players will continue to shine in the IPL, where their names are synonymous with excellence alongside other luminaries like Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Shah Rukh Khan.
&nbsp;
For Kohli, this potential farewell caps an illustrious career with all three ICC white-ball trophies adorning his cabinet&mdash;2011 ODI World Cup, 2013 Champions Trophy, and now possibly the T20 World Cup.
&nbsp;
This journey mirrors that of Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara, who bid adieu to T20Is immediately after their 2014 World Cup triumph.
&nbsp;
Legacy of two titans
&nbsp;
Kohli and Rohit, with 8334 T20I runs, six centuries, 69 fifties, and 119 catches between them, represent the last link between the old guard and the new generation.
&nbsp;
Their careers have been marked by highs and lows, and they deserve to stand together with the T20 World Cup trophy in hand&mdash;a testament to their enduring legacy.
&nbsp;
Both are World Cup winners, but those triumphs were shared with legends like Dhoni, Tendulkar, and Yuvraj. This time, the glory would belong to them, and them alone.
&nbsp;
Champions harbor egos, whether overt or concealed, and Kohli&rsquo;s visible pain after the England match spoke volumes. Counting him out is always a perilous mistake.
&nbsp;
For Rohit, the narrative of November 19, 2023, could be encapsulated by the title of Sudhir Mishra's 1996 cult classic, "Is Raat Ki Subaah Nahi" (No Morning for this Night).
&nbsp;
Despite his assertions of moving on, the desire for closure remains strong. Winning this T20 World Cup would offer that much-needed resolution.
&nbsp;
An organic popularity
&nbsp;
Rohit&rsquo;s popularity is unique. Dhoni was revered as &ldquo;Mahi bhai,&rdquo; Kohli earned respect through his monumental achievements, but Rohit is loved&mdash;purely and unconditionally.
&nbsp;
His empathy and leadership, as narrated by Ravichandran Ashwin, who recalled how Rohit ensured a physio accompanied him to Chennai during a family health crisis, highlight his humane side.
&nbsp;
Rohit and Kohli have witnessed the evolution of Indian cricket together. They arrived when the Nokia 3310 was the rage and now, in their twilight, they see fandom dominated by 'Viratians' and 'Rohitians.'
&nbsp;
Their exit will leave a significant void, not just in terms of their cricketing prowess, but also in the emotional connection they share with fans.
&nbsp;
If Saturday indeed marks their last dance in T20Is, the gap they leave will be challenging to fill. Their journey has been one of shared triumphs and trials, and their final bow will be a moment of both celebration and sadness for Indian cricket.

Final T20I tango for Rohit and Kohli?

Voting in the snap presidential elections in Iran begins on June 28 to determine the successor to Ebrahim Raisi, who lost his life in a helicopter crash on May 19 this year.
 As per reports, every Iranian aged 18 or older is eligible to participate in the elections in Tehran. Across the nation, 58,640 polling stations have been established in various public locations including mosques and schools.
&nbsp;
To cast their vote, voters must first complete an application and present their national ID card at the polling booth. They use a secret ballot to write down the candidate&rsquo;s name and code, which is then deposited in a ballot box.
&nbsp;
If no candidate secures at least 50 per cent plus one vote from all cast ballots, including blank votes, a run-off round between the top two candidates will take place the following Friday after the announcement of the initial results.
&nbsp;
Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has already cast his vote and encouraged the public to actively participate in this critical electoral process.
&nbsp;
Speaking at a mosque linked to his offices, Khamenei highlighted the importance of a high turnout, describing the election as a significant political test.
&nbsp;
Meanwhile, two candidates withdrew from the presidential race. On Wednesday night, 53-year-old Amir-Hossein Ghazizadeh Hashemi dropped out, urging fellow candidates to follow suit to strengthen the revolution's front, as reported by regional media.
&nbsp;
Alireza Zakani, the mayor of Tehran, also announced on Thursday that he would no longer participate in the presidential race.
&nbsp;
Originally scheduled for 2025, the presidential elections were advanced due to Raisi's untimely death.
&nbsp;
Raisi, aged 63, was a key figure in Iran's succession planning for the 85-year-old supreme leader and was widely expected to secure another term in office.
&nbsp;
His death in the helicopter crash in north-western Iran also claimed the life of Iran&rsquo;s Foreign Minister, Hossein Amirabdollahian, along with other officials.
&nbsp;

Tehran

Iran polls begin to choose Raisi’s successor

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Friday that the Kamakhya Access Corridor project will only commence after receiving clearance from IIT Guwahati.
&nbsp;
Speaking to reporters after offering prayers at the Kamakhya Temple atop Nilachal Hills, Sarma revealed that Larsen and Toubro Group (L&amp;T) have been assigned the project and have submitted the blueprint and plans for IITG's approval.
&nbsp;
IIT Guwahati will evaluate hydrological and geological concerns before granting clearance. "No deadline has been set for IITG's review, which may take three to four months or even longer," Sarma stated.
&nbsp;
The chief minister assured that the construction would not pose any problems as the Public Works Department will focus on improving and widening the road while providing amenities for devotees.
&nbsp;
A writ petition filed by a few temple priests is pending in the Gauhati High Court, expressing concerns that the proposed development might affect the temple's eternal springs, including the holy spring in the 'garbhagriha' (sanctum sanctorum).
&nbsp;
The next hearing is scheduled for July 27.
&nbsp;
Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation for the Rs 498 crore Kamakhya Access Corridor under the Prime Minister's Development Initiative in the North East (PM-DevINE) in February this year.
&nbsp;
The chief minister, accompanied by his wife Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, offered prayers at the temple two days after its reopening following its annual three-day closure during the Ambubachi Mela.
&nbsp;
"Every year, we offer prayers on the day the temple doors open, but this year, due to the unprecedented crowd, I had to defer it by two days. I prayed to the Goddess for the welfare and blessings of all people of the state," Sarma said.
&nbsp;
The temple doors were closed to devotees on June 22 and reopened on June 26 for the Ambubachi Mela, which marks the belief in the annual menstrual cycle of Goddess Kamakhya.
&nbsp;
The project aims to improve access to the revered Kamakhya Temple, ensuring better facilities for the influx of devotees visiting during major events like the Ambubachi Mela.

Kamakhya project to begin post IITG nod: CM Sarma

The popularity of his much-loved character from Kota Factory points towards the dearth of mentor figures in people&rsquo;s lives, says actor Jitendra Kuman decoding why his role of Jeetu Bhaiya resonates with viewers so much.
&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;">In the Kota-set series, Jeetu bhaiya is a mentor and teacher at a coaching institute, where students prepare for the highly competitive Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) entrance exams.
<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 Jitendra, the character acts as a support system to the students going through challenges. &ldquo;The only thing that I'm able to decode from the love this show and this character has received is that we have very few mentor-figures. Either there isn&rsquo;t the right kind of mentorship or it is completely unavailable so much so that people feel 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;">&ldquo;As humans, we are social and we have a need to express ourselves and we need support, a lot. At times, we make friends who are in the same competition and that's why we are not able to share certain things with them... that&rsquo;s why people have related with this fictional character of Jeetu bhaiya,&rdquo; Jitendra 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 new season of the black-and-white series, which hails from The Viral Fever (TVF), sees the students preparing for final exams while dealing with other challenges in their life.
<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;">Jitendra, also known for his work on series TVF Pitchers and Panchayat as well as feature film Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan, is an alumnus of IIT Kharagpur who also studied in Kota.
<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;">Recalling his coaching days, the actor said students were taught in huge numbers in big halls and auditoriums.
<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;A teacher used to take the lecture in a big hall or an auditorium for 1.5 hours and there are at least 20-25 classes every week. They don&rsquo;t have the time to personally understand the problems of each and every student.
<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;Students get inspired and impressed by their teachers, whether by their teaching methods or style... My teachers were my stars and when I used to meet them, it was a huge deal. I was starstruck by them.&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;
After Kota Factory came out, the actor said his former professors sent messages and congratulated him.
&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 went back to Kota and met them there. And they told me how this series has changed their perspective towards their work. They never had this thought that they can personally connect with students.
<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;We tend to focus too much on studies and solving the numerical equations that we forget about the students. This series has changed them a lot and they now try to help their students in solving their personal problems as well. And this was a winning feedback for me and this series,&rdquo; he 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;">Kota Factory also features Mayur More, who plays the role of Vaibhav, an IIT aspirant in Kota.
<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;">After playing the character for three seasons, More believes that stress and anxiety about performing well in competitive exams is a very common human feeling but one should just focus on the process and enjoy 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;">&ldquo;You can do a lot of preparation but still feel stress. At times, there is stress because you feel you have over prepared.... At times, we have already decided the result of something in our heads and then we get disappointed. Some people achieve those results and some don&rsquo;t.
<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 believe that that disappointment is very important.... So one should just enjoy the process and try to better what you have in your hand,&rdquo; he 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;">Directed by Pratish Mehta and showrun by Raghav Subbu, Kota Factory also features Ranjan Raj, Alam Khan, Revathi Pillai, Ahsaas Channa, Rajesh Kumar and Tillotama Shome. 
&nbsp;

Kota Factory's Jeetu bhaiya speaks on mentorship

Jammu &amp; Kashmir's Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) has initiated the process for assembly elections in the Union Territory, instructing district election officers (DEOs) to implement the tasks outlined in the Election Commission of India's election planner after a decade.
&nbsp;
According to an official letter obtained by a local news agency, the CEO has directed all 20 deputy commissioners, who also act as district election officials, to take up responsibilities outlined in the ECI's "election planner". The letter from the CEO's office states, "As you are aware, the process of conducting elections to the Legislative Assembly of Jammu &amp; Kashmir has been set in motion by the Election Commission of India by issuing the schedule for the summary revision of the electoral roll vide its letter No: 23/2024-ERS(vol. III) dated 20-06-2024.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;I am thus directing you to begin the activities outlined in the election planner communicated by the Election Commission of India via letter No: 464/INST/2022-EPS dated 27-12-2022 so that the pre-poll activities are carried out appropriately and completed within the time frame specified for the successful conduct of elections to the Legislative Assembly."
&nbsp;
The election commission overlooks plans and activities required for the election. On June 20, Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a visit to Srinagar stated that preparations for the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir had begun.
&nbsp;
"What could be better than the people of Jammu and Kashmir electing representatives and dealing with their issues through them? This is why preparations for the assembly elections have begun.
&nbsp;
You will soon be able to elect the future administration of Jammu and Kashmir with your votes. "The day will come soon when J&amp;K will shape its future as a state once more," he stated.
&nbsp;
In the 2014 Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly elections, the People's Democratic Party (PDP) emerged as the single largest party, winning 28 seats out of 87. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 25 seats, making it the second-largest party.
&nbsp;
After the elections, the PDP and BJP formed a coalition government. Mufti Mohammad Sayeed of the PDP was sworn in as Chief Minister on March 1, 2015.
&nbsp;
Following his death in January 2016, his daughter, Mehbooba Mufti, took over as Chief Minister in April 2016.
&nbsp;
This coalition government continued until June 2018, when the BJP pulled out of the alliance, leading to the imposition of the governor's rule in the state.
&nbsp;
This will be the first assembly election in ten years and the first since J&amp;K's special status was revoked.
&nbsp;
Political parties, especially the National Conference (NC), have begun early preparations for the upcoming polls in the Union Territory.
&nbsp;

J&K gears up for Assembly poll after a decade

Two newly-elected Trinamool Congress MLAs sat on a dharna for the second consecutive day on Friday in front of BR Ambedkar&rsquo;s statue in West Bengal Assembly, as a stalemate over their demand to be administered oath in the House against Governor CV Ananda Bose&rsquo;s invite to do so in the Raj Bhavan continued.
&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;">Baranagar MLA Sayantika Bandyopadhyay and Bhagabangola MLA Rayat Hossain Sarkar, who won in by-polls, refused to take oath in the Raj Bhavan as asked by Governor Bose and sat on a dharna in the assembly complex 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;">&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;">They sat on dharna again on Friday at noon in front of the statue of Ambedkar in the West Bengal Vidhan Sabha complex, demanding that Bose facilitate the oath-taking ceremony in the assembly, enabling them to perform their duties as legislators.
<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 governor had invited the two MLAs to take the oath at the Raj Bhavan on Wednesday.
<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;
They declined the invitation, claiming that convention dictates that in the case of by-poll winners, the governor assigns the speaker or the deputy speaker to administer the oath.
&nbsp;
The controversy took a new turn on Thursday with chief minister Mamata Banerjee claiming that women were scared to go to Raj Bhavan.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;I have received complaints that because of various scandals and misconduct going on at Raj Bhavan, women are afraid to go there,&rdquo; Mamata said, referring to the recent complaint lodged against the governor by a woman employee of Raj Bhavan.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;Even after winning (by-elections), my legislators have been waiting for a month! The governor is not allowing them to take the oath. People have elected them. What right does he have to prevent them from taking the oath? He should give this right (to administer the oath) to the Speaker or the deputy Speaker. If not, then, he should go to the Assembly himself. Why should everyone go to Raj Bhavan?&rdquo; asked Mamata.
&nbsp;
As the two MLAs continued to wait for the oath-taking, Biman Banerjee wrote to President Droupadi Murmu detailing the entire chain of events and asked her to intervene to end the stalemate.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Swearing-in row in WB: MLAs continue dharna

The first presidential debate for the 2024 U.S. election cycle has concluded between President Joe Biden and his Republican challenger, Donald Trump. The event, held at CNN headquarters in Atlanta, featured a heated exchange covering a wide array of topics including international conflicts, economic policies, climate issues, and more.
&nbsp;
Trump criticised Biden's handling of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, accusing him of passivity and indirectly encouraging Russian actions. Biden retaliated by labelling Russian President Vladimir Putin a war criminal and emphasising his commitment to halting Russian aggression.
&nbsp;
The debate also delved into the Israel-Hamas conflict, with Biden advocating against Hamas and emphasising U.S. support for Israel, while Trump countered with claims of his proactive stance if in power. Trump highlighted the financial support extended to Israel during his presidency.
&nbsp;
On economic matters, Biden defended his policies, citing the Paris Peace Accord as a landmark achievement and criticising Trump's economic record. Trump countered by praising his own economic stewardship, claiming to have overseen unprecedented prosperity during his tenure.
&nbsp;
The debate took a personal turn when Biden criticised Trump's character, referencing allegations of moral and legal misconduct. Trump, in turn, lambasted Biden's leadership style and questioned his coherence during the debate.
&nbsp;
The event, notable for its lack of a live audience and muted microphones during exchanges, highlighted the intense polarisation within the electorate and the contentious issues shaping the upcoming election.
&nbsp;
Both candidates clashed over foreign policy, immigration, and domestic social issues, underscoring the high stakes of the 2024 election. Biden faced scrutiny over his handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal and other global engagements, while Trump defended his approach to immigration and the Supreme Court appointments.
&nbsp;
Despite the spirited exchange, opinions on the debate were divided among viewers and analysts. Some expressed concern over Biden's delivery and coherence, while others praised Trump's forceful presentation.
&nbsp;
The debate marks a pivotal moment in the presidential campaign, setting the stage for further discussions on critical issues affecting the nation's future. As the election season progresses, both candidates are expected to intensify their efforts to sway undecided voters and solidify support within their respective bases.

Georgia

Trump, Biden spar in Presidential debate 2024

Palak Chouhan

Bharti Airtel on Friday announced a 10&ndash;21% increase in prepaid and postpaid mobile tariffs, just a day after its larger rival Reliance Jio raised its rates.This marks the first significant tariff hike by the telecom industry in two-and-a-half years.
&nbsp;
Airtel&rsquo;s new tariff rates, effective July 3, will see daily data add-ons (1GB) rise by Rs 3, from Rs 19 to Rs 22. The 365-day validity plan offering 2GB/day will increase by Rs 600, from Rs 2,999 to Rs 3,599. Unlimited voice plans will see a Rs 20 increase, with the 28-day validity plan offering 2GB of data rising from Rs 179 to Rs 199.
&nbsp;
"We have ensured that there is a very modest price increase (less than 70 paise per day) on entry-level plans in order to eliminate any burden on budget-challenged consumers," Airtel said in a statement.
&nbsp;
Bharti Airtel has consistently stated that the mobile average revenue per user (ARPU) needs to be above Rs 300 to sustain a financially healthy business model for telecom companies in India.
&nbsp;
"We believe that this level of ARPU will enable the substantial investments required in network technology and spectrum and offer a modest return on capital," the company added.
&nbsp;
Following Reliance Jio's 12&ndash;27% tariff hike announcement on Thursday, market analysts anticipate a similar move from Vodafone Idea soon.
&nbsp;
Despite the hike, most Airtel mobile plans will still cost more than those of Reliance Jio. Airtel has long advocated for tariff increases in the industry, citing the 'absurdly low' rates in India compared to global standards.
&nbsp;
Airtel&rsquo;s revised rates include an 11% increase in the unlimited voice plan category, with prices changing from Rs 179 to Rs 199, Rs 455 to Rs 509, and Rs 1,799 to Rs 1,999. Daily data plans have also been adjusted, with the Rs 479 plan (56-day validity, 1.5GB/day) increased to Rs 579 and the 1GB/day plan (28-day validity) rising from Rs 265 to Rs 299.
&nbsp;
Longer 84-day validity plans will see a Rs 140 increase, with the 1.5GB/day plan rising from Rs 719 to Rs 859 and the 2GB/day plan rising from Rs 839 to Rs 979.
&nbsp;
Data add-ons have also become more expensive, with 1GB for one day increasing from Rs 19 to Rs 22, and 2GB rising from Rs 29 to Rs 33. The 4GB add-on with 65-day validity will increase from Rs 65 to Rs 77.
&nbsp;
Postpaid rates will see a 10&ndash;20% increase, translating to a Rs 50&ndash;200 hike depending on the number of connections and benefits.
Airtel confirmed that the new prices apply to all circles, including Bharti Hexacom Ltd. circles.

Airtel raises mobile tariffs 10-21% after Jio

The elusive Mainland Serow, a vulnerable mammal species recognised by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), has been documented for the first time in Assam&rsquo;s Raimona National Park.
&nbsp;
This significant discovery was made recently by forest officials and conservationists using digital camera traps.
&nbsp;
The Mainland Serow was captured on camera twice near the Ganda Bajrum anti-poaching camp in the park's western range.
&nbsp;
The photographic evidence was collected by personnel from the forest department and members of the biodiversity group Aaranyak.
&nbsp;
"The discovery of the Mainland Serow in Raimona National Park is a positive development for biodiversity conservation. We are thrilled by this finding," said Bhanu Sinha, Divisional Forest Officer of the Kachugaon Forest Division.
&nbsp;
According to Sinha, the forest department aims to conserve this species along with other wildlife in the national park.
&nbsp;
The Mainland Serow&rsquo;s presence in Raimona is notable as its population is widely distributed in neighbouring regions such as Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary and Royal Manas National Park in Bhutan, potentially aiding population recovery in Assam.
&nbsp;
The discovery has been detailed in a scientific paper published in the Journal of Threatened Taxa. "Raimona National Park harbours a wealth of wildlife, and this finding is encouraging for the conservation community," said M. Firoz Ahmed, a senior scientist at Aaranyak.
&nbsp;
The Mainland Serow (Capricornis sumatraensis thar) is known to inhabit various regions from the Himalayas to southern China, mainland Southeast Asia, and Sumatra.
&nbsp;
However, its populations are fragmented and declining due to poaching, habitat destruction, and loss, according to senior conservationist Dipankar Lahkar.
&nbsp;
Lahkar highlighted the challenges in conserving the Mainland Serow due to the lack of reliable data on its abundance and distribution.
&nbsp;
He stressed the importance of effective conservation actions for the species' long-term survival.
&nbsp;
Raimona National Park faces conservation concerns such as occasional poaching for bushmeat and habitat alteration from logging during ethnopolitical violence.
&nbsp;
"With government protection, future efforts should focus on securing and recovering the species&rsquo; population and restoring degraded habitats," Lahkar added.
&nbsp;
Raimona was designated a national park by the Assam government on June 8, 2021, marking a significant step toward preserving the region's biodiversity.

Assam’s Raimona Park hosts rare Mainland Serow

The Tamil Nadu Assembly on Friday once again passed a unanimous resolution urging the Centre to exempt the state from National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test and allow it to admit students to medical courses based on Plus Two exam marks.
&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 resolution, adopted by the House amid the Bharatiya Janata Party&rsquo;s opposition and walkout, called upon the Centre to amend the National Medical Commission Act and abolish the country-wide screening test taking into account the irregularities and increasing opposition to the test in several states, which toed Tamil Nadu&rsquo;s line.
<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&rsquo;s ally, the PMK, however supported the resolution piloted by Chief Minister and DMK president MK Stalin, who argued that the test was discriminatory and deprived an opportunity for the rural and poor students to access medical education and denied states their rights to admit students with Plus Two marks as the qualifying criteria.
<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 leader Nainar Nagendran argued that the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) was required as it had many benefits.
<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;">On the argument that the poor and rural students found it difficult to pursue medical education because of the test, he said then Union Health Minister JP Nadda and then Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami ensured 7.5 per cent reservation for state government school students who passed the test.
<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;NEET is needed. The Assembly resolution against NEET is unacceptable and we are staging a walkout,&rdquo; Nagendran said and walked out along with the BJP legislators.
<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 principal opposition AIADMK was not present in the House as all the members were suspended for the brief session concluding on June 29 for disrupting the House over the Kallakurichi hooch tragedy incident.
<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;">Moving the resolution, Stalin said apart from making medical education inaccessible to the poor and rural students, NEET will affect the medical services in the rural and backward areas.
<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;The DMK has consistently been opposing NEET since it was made mandatory in 2017 and had even launched a massive signature campaign aiming to abolish the test,&rdquo; the Chief Minister said and recalled the two earlier Assembly resolutions adopted by the House seeking presidential assent to exempt Tamil Nadu from NEET.
<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;">Further, the irregularities in the conduct of NEET, scams that surfaced in many states and grace marks that were awarded and later rescinded, leading to the Centre order an enquiry by the CBI, led to the states opposing the test, he 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;">Stalin referred to the letters written by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav, leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, and Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Tejaswi Yadav to the Centre demanding scrapping of the NEET in the aftermath of irregularities in the conduct of the test.
<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;The voice of Tamil Nadu has now become the voice of the country,&rdquo; he said and appealed to the members to support his resolution against NEET.
<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;NEET should be abolished. Tamil Nadu should be allowed to admit students to medical courses taking the Plus Two marks as the qualifying criteria.
<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;">Taking into account the irregularities in several states and opposition to the test, the Centre should appropriately amend the National Medical Commission Act to totally scrap NEET,&rdquo; the resolution 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;">It was unanimously passed, Speaker M Appavu said. 
&nbsp;

TN passes resolution to exempt state from NEET

Like the popular characters of "Mirzapur", the team behind the hit crime series is also gaining a "level of maturity" as they move forward with the third season, says the show's director Gurmeet Singh.
&nbsp;
The rawness and aggression of the youth have given way to a "certain madness" that comes when characters have to deal with power, the director said, acknowledging that they look forward to feedback and fan theories for the Prime Video show, whose third season will premiere on July 5.
&nbsp;
"When we started off, we knew we were going into an action-crime-drama-thriller, our characters were much younger. The colour of the first season was raw because they were young people with angst and testosterone. They were trying to find a space for themselves in a place like UP. The depiction of whether it was language or violence was also like that, it was in your face, it was aggressive, brutal,&rdquo; Singh told PTI in an interview.
&nbsp;
In the third part, Guddu Pandit, played by Ali Fazal, is getting ready to defend the throne of Mirzapur that he took from Pankaj Tripathi&rsquo;s Kaleen Bhaiya who is also preparing a comeback.
&nbsp;
"Our characters are back and they are in a position where they are dealing with power, so there&rsquo;s a sense of madness to it. But it is for the audience to tell us, and we are open to feedback, whether it is shown validly or not. We are open to criticism. It is done keeping in mind the story and what will drive it forward with a level of maturity that we are gaining through the show as we go along,&rdquo; Singh added.
&nbsp;
The gangster drama series, whose first part premiered on Prime Video in 2018, followed by an equally successful second part in 2020, has fascinated fans all over the world.
"When we came into season two, we matured. We saw and understood things, and made sure that only when the story requires, we get into something like that (violence). The impact of the violence is still there but it was treated as an aspect of the character&rsquo;s journey,&rdquo; the director said.
&nbsp;
In the mix of "Mirzapur" season three are characters old and new fighting for their relevance in the crime-riddled world, which borrows its title and setting from the eponymous city in Uttar Pradesh. 
Other talented actors completing the world of "Mirzapur" include Rasika Dugal, Shweta Tripathi Sharma, Vijay Varma, Harshita Shekhar Gaur, Amit Sial, Anjumm Sharma, Priyanshu Painyuli, Sheeba Chaddha, Manu Rishi Chadha and Rajesh Tailang.
&nbsp;
Asked why it took four years to come up with the third season when there was only a gap of two years between the first two, Singh said the pandemic delayed the series for a year and a half. They also wanted the writing to be watertight for the show, produced by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani's Excel Entertainment.
&nbsp;
"'Mirzapur' is not taken from any existing written material so the writing has to always be from scratch. The characters that we have, the journey that we want to give them is always something that we find from within the character itself. We are not looking for it from the outside, so that takes time to develop.
&nbsp;
"The process is to give each character their journey, their graph and their trappings and then start making them intersect. When they intersect, the drama happens and you finalise the process. All this takes a lot of time." Like any popular show, "Mirzapur" enjoys its own set of fan theories and Singh said sometimes it helps in fleshing out details of a character, like Golu's character in the third season chews 'gutka', which evolved from a discussion he had with a bureaucrat's wife in Varanasi. 
"She was a fan and said, &lsquo;Give me a role to play, but don&rsquo;t give me a teacher kind of a role, give me a 'tabadtod' (strong) role, where a woman is having gutka and spits that&rsquo;. I asked if this fascinates her as a person, and she said, &lsquo;Of course, it does&rsquo;.
&nbsp;
"I told Shweta, &lsquo;Why don&rsquo;t we give this characteristic to Golu, that she is a woman in a man&rsquo;s world, trying to fit in with the boys&rsquo;. If she is a girl who has a gang of boys with her, will she eat pan masala?&rsquo; It came from our interaction with people in real life.&rdquo; Similarly, the character of Imran Alam, popularly known as the dancing uncle, was extended further in season two purely because of the love it received from fans. The role was played by veteran actor Hemant Kapadia.
&nbsp;
In the final episode of the first season, Alam is shown dancing at a wedding, totally unaware that Munna (Divyendu) and his gang members have barged their way in and murdered a lot of people. The climactic scene ended with the killings of Bablu (Vikrant Massey) and Sweety (Shriya Pilgaonkar).
"In season two, we needed a character, a witness who has witnessed the wedding massacre and can testify against Munna. And suddenly the dancing chacha who was very popular came to our mind.
&nbsp;
"We thought if we have that character, then there&rsquo;s fun to add along with the emotion and quirk. So, that came out of fan love. That&rsquo;s the only thing that we borrowed externally.&rdquo; According to Singh, fans feel invested in knowing the journeys of the show's characters, irrespective of where they fall on the moral spectrum.
&nbsp;
"The characters are such that people have related to them, they want to know what&rsquo;s going to happen in their journey further. The writing of the show doesn&rsquo;t judge any of its characters and presents them in a manner that you can love the most devious of characters, and you can hate the most lovable characters.
&nbsp;
"It gives you that range and spectrum to play with. And, people have got attached to the characters that constantly surprise along the way. This beautiful cast that we are blessed with, they bring that magic on to the screen. If you&rsquo;ve this cast then why won't people like to watch it more?&rdquo; The unending love from viewers serves as the motivation for the team to keep pushing boundaries.
&nbsp;
"Please do ask us (about the next season) because that is our fuel. It drives us. We are writing season four," he added.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

A madness to it: 'Mirzapur' director Gurmeet Singh

In a tense moment aboard the International Space Station (ISS), NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore were compelled to seek emergency shelter in Boeing's Starliner spacecraft as space debris posed a threat to the orbiting laboratory.
&nbsp;
The incident unfolded when NASA received reports of a satellite breakup near the station. Following standard safety protocols, Mission Control promptly instructed all crew members to retreat to their respective spacecraft. Williams and Wilmore, who have been aboard the ISS since June 5, took refuge in the Starliner capsule.
&nbsp;
For about an hour, Mission Control closely monitored the trajectory of the debris while the astronauts remained in their protective shelters. Once it was confirmed that the immediate danger had subsided, the crew received clearance to leave their spacecraft and resume normal operations on the station.
&nbsp;
This event underscores the ongoing challenge posed by space debris and highlights the critical importance of safety procedures in orbital activities. It also showcased the Starliner's role as a potential lifeboat during emergencies, a pivotal capability for any crew vehicle docked at the ISS.
&nbsp;
The incident occurred during an extended stay for Williams and Wilmore, whose return to Earth has been delayed due to technical issues with the Starliner spacecraft.
&nbsp;
Initially planned for an 8-day mission, the astronauts have now spent over three weeks in space while NASA and Boeing address helium leaks and thruster problems affecting the capsule.
&nbsp;
Despite these challenges, NASA has reiterated the Starliner's capability to safely bring the astronauts back to Earth if necessary. This recent precautionary measure further emphasises the spacecraft's crucial role in ensuring crew safety during space missions.
&nbsp;
As humanity's activities in space expand, managing orbital debris remains a paramount concern for space agencies worldwide. The incident serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in space exploration and the continuous efforts to safeguard astronauts and space assets.

Cape Canaveral

Astronauts sheltered as space debris threaten ISS

The Indian micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) sector, employing approximately 12 million people, is set to generate over 200,000 new jobs by 2025, according to a report released on Thursday by NLB Services, a global technology and digital talent solutions provider.
&nbsp;
The report indicates that these new job opportunities will span both the services and manufacturing sectors, impacting urban and rural areas across India.
&nbsp;
Emerging industries within the MSME sector, such as e-commerce, logistics, and supply-chain management, are expected to contribute significantly to this job growth.
&nbsp;
"Home to 63.39 million enterprises, India has the fastest-growing cohort of MSMEs, creating large-scale employment across the country, particularly in Tier 2 and 3 regions," said Sachin Alug, CEO of NLB Services.
&nbsp;
Small businesses, comprising 96% of industrial units, are the second-largest employment generator in India.&nbsp;The MSME ecosystem currently contributes over 33% to India's GDP and accounts for 62% of domestic employment.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;However, Alug noted that the average contribution of MSMEs to employment in other emerging economies stands at 77%, highlighting untapped potential in India.
&nbsp;
The report anticipates an increased demand for roles in construction, manufacturing, transportation, and supply-chain management, driven by digitization and the post-pandemic workforce shift.
&nbsp;
The majority of these new roles are expected to emerge in Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana.
&nbsp;
Women-led enterprises make up 20.44% of micro-businesses, 5.26% of small businesses, and 2.77% of medium businesses in India. The report noted that women-led MSMEs have shown better income growth compared to their male counterparts.
&nbsp;
"Over the next five years, we anticipate a 20&ndash;25% surge in women-led MSMEs, which will further bolster job creation," the report concluded.

Indian MSME sector to generate 2 lakh jobs by 2025

The Kerala Health Department cautioned the public against various infectious diseases like colds, viral fevers, dengue, and H1N1 in view of continued rains in the state.
&nbsp;
Amid rising cases of epidemics, the Health Department has made wearing masks mandatory for people visiting hospitals. The department also cautioned against bird flu and amoebic meningoencephalitis.
&nbsp;
After chairing the meeting of the State Level Rapid Response Team (RRT), State Health Minister Veena George said that fever in children should be taken seriously.
&nbsp;
She advised parents not to send sick children to school and to provide them with proper treatment and rest.
&nbsp;
The minister said that the Health Department will formulate a special action plan for July as part of epidemic prevention.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;An action plan is formulated to prevent epidemics and ensure better treatment,&rdquo; she said in an official release.
&nbsp;
The minister urged people to seek expert treatment if they experience prolonged fever or other symptoms such as shortness of breath with fever, excessive palpitation, chest pain, slurred speech, loss of consciousness, blood in sputum, or excessive fatigue.
&nbsp;
The meeting of the Rapid Response Team also cautioned against bird flu. &ldquo;Those who keep pets and birds should be especially careful.
&nbsp;
Anyone who has handled dead birds or animals should report any signs of illness to health workers immediately,&rdquo; the release said.
&nbsp;
Noting that influenza, colds, and coughs can be prevented through personal safety measures such as masks, social distancing, and hand hygiene, the Health Department stressed the importance of following these measures as H1N1 cases are increasing.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;Masks must be worn by hospital visitors,&rdquo; it said. Caution should be exercised against amoebic meningoencephalitis.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;Bathing in stagnant water and diving in water should be avoided as much as possible as this disease has been reported in Kerala. Water in theme parks and swimming pools should be properly chlorinated to ensure that it is clean,&rdquo; it added.
&nbsp;

Thiruvananthapuram

Kerala makes masks mandatory for hospital visits

A firm grip on emotions will be crucial when the formidable Indian team, desperate to end its lengthy title drought, makes another attempt at getting the monkey off its back against a South African side, which is unfamiliar with the winning feeling, in the T20 World Cup final here on Saturday.
&nbsp;
India's campaign in the tournament has been remarkably similar to the one in the ODI World Cup at home last year where they breezed into the final only to be bettered by Australia on the big stage.
&nbsp;
They are unbeaten here too and have been the best of the tournament by far. More importantly, they don't have the battle-hardened Australia in their way of an elusive trophy this time around.
&nbsp;
South Africa, whose only triumph in ICC events came way back in the Champions Trophy (then named ICC Knock-Out Trophy) in 1998, head into the final with hopes and dreams of their own.
&nbsp;
Labelled chokers for the better of their international cricket journey, the Proteas will be determined to shed that dubious tag for good at the Kensington Oval.
&nbsp;
For some of their players, who list IPL titles as their biggest achievement, a World Cup trophy in their hands will be the ultimate prize.
&nbsp;
If one goes by the mood seen among fans and experts after India's rout of England in the semifinal in Guyana, Rohit Sharma and his men are the overwhelming favourites.
&nbsp;
It is a fair observation considering the make-up of India's squad and the conditions in the Caribbean. They would be expected to wipe off the heartbreak of November 19, 2023, when over a lakh fans in Ahmedabad were silenced by Pat Cummins' Australia in the all-important final.
&nbsp;
"I know India have had their issues in the ICC finals for a long time but I just don't see South Africa posing a challenge. India have been the best team of the tournament so far and man to man South Africa are a weaker side," a World Cup winning former captain told reporters on the flight from Guyana to Barbados.
&nbsp;
It would also be a perfect send-off for outgoing coach Rahul Dravid, who was crestfallen man in the Caribbean back in the 2007 ODI World Cup as India captain after the team's early exit but is on the cusp of a remarkable farewell as coach.
&nbsp;
The way India, who are in their first T20 World Cup final in 10 years, have adapted to conditions in the competition has gone a long way in securing the final berth. The team management has been crystal clear about its plans for the event.
&nbsp;
They utilised three specialist pacers on the untested pitches in New York before bringing trump card Kuldeep Yadav into play on the spin friendly surfaces in the Caribbean.
&nbsp;
India are certain to stick to the same playing eleven but would be hoping two of its key players to deliver in the winner-takes-all contest.
Superstar Virat Kohli has had a quiet tournament, something that was not not expected after his prolific season in the preceding IPL.
&nbsp;
However, on pitches where hitting through the line has been a challenge, the former Indian captain has not been able dominate the bowlers despite clear attempts to do so.
&nbsp;
"He is it saving it for the final," said his opening partner and skipper Rohit Sharma, backing an undisputed great of the game who could be playing his last innings in the T20 showpiece.
&nbsp;
Rohit, on the contrary, has shown the way to other batters in the side and his innings will hold massive importance in the final.
&nbsp;
The captain would also like to see Shivam Dube excel in the high pressure game, having given middling returns in the tournament so far. His battles against spinners Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi could make a big impact.
&nbsp;
On the bowling front, India have nothing to worry about with both pacers and spinners performing their roles to perfection.
&nbsp;
Arriving here right after the semi-final against England leaves them with only a day to recover, which has been the case since the start of Super 8s campaign at this very ground.
&nbsp;
South Africa, on the other hand, got an extra day between the final and will be training on Friday.
&nbsp;
Unlike India, they have nothing to lose as they have never been part of a World Cup final before but after a resounding win over Afghanistan in Trinidad, the Proteas are smelling the taste of victory.
&nbsp;
They would be expecting runs from the opening pair of Quinton de Kock and Reeza Hendricks, especially the wicket-keeper who can put serious pressure on the opposition when on song. Skipper Aiden Markram could not fire against the bigger teams in the Super 8s and is due for a big one.
&nbsp;
Heinrich Klaasen, one of the most destructive hitters in the game, too needs runs and for that, he will have to negotiate the spin threat in the middle overs.
South Africa's pace department has been on fire but it remains to be seen what kind of impact it can have in a day game here. Shamsi and Maharaj are effective but Indian batters will not be wary of them.
&nbsp;
There is a high chance of rain on Saturday but the ICC has kept a reserve day for the all-important fixture.
Squads: India: Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal, Sanju Samson, Mohammed Siraj, Yashasvi Jaiswal. 
South Africa: Quinton de Kock (wk), Reeza Hendricks, Aiden Markram (c), Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Tabraiz Shamsi, Ottneil Baartman, Gerald Coetzee, Bjorn Fortuin, Ryan Rickelton.

Barbados

T20WC final: Title-Hungry India vs ‘Choker’ SA

China's space officials have invited global scientists to study lunar rock samples from the Chang&rsquo;e 6 mission while noting that US collaboration remains restricted due to the Wolf Amendment.
 At a televised news conference in Beijing, Bian Zhigang, vice chair of the China National Space Administration (CNSA), stated, &ldquo;The source of the obstacle to US-China aerospace cooperation is still the Wolf Amendment.
&nbsp;
If the US truly wants to hope to begin regular aerospace cooperation, I think they should take the appropriate measures to remove the obstacle.&rdquo;
&nbsp;
The 2011Wolf Amendment prohibits direct bilateral cooperation with NASA unless the FBI certifies there is no national security risk.
&nbsp;
Despite this, China remains open to collaborating with scientists from other countries. Liu Yunfeng, director of the International Cooperation Office of CNSA, said, &ldquo;China welcomes scientists from all countries to apply according to the processes and share in the benefits.&rdquo;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;The Chang&rsquo;e-6 mission already saw cooperation with the European Space Agency, France, Italy, and Pakistan.
&nbsp;
While the precise amount of lunar samples gathered and preliminary findings were not disclosed, Chinese officials indicated that more information would be available soon.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;&ldquo;I&rsquo;m afraid this matter will not be revealed until tomorrow, so I hope everyone can wait patiently for another day,&rdquo; said Hu Hao, chief designer of Chang&rsquo;e-6.
&nbsp;
The Chang&rsquo;e-6 mission, which returned samples thought to include 2.5 million-year-old volcanic rock, aimed to collect two kilograms (more than four pounds) of material from the moon&rsquo;s far side.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;This historic mission marked the first time a probe successfully brought back samples directly from the far side of the moon, specifically from the South Pole-Aitken Basin, an ancient impact crater.
&nbsp;
The far side of the moon, characterised by mountains and impact craters, poses significant challenges for exploration.
&nbsp;
Previous samples believed to be from this region were meteorites found on Earth. The returned samples are expected to provide insights into the geological differences between the moon&rsquo;s near and far sides and the events that shaped them over billions of years.
&nbsp;
China&rsquo;s space ambitions are not only ambitious but also driven by steadfast determination, aiming to pioneer future space exploration endeavours.
&nbsp;
Upcoming missions include the Chang&rsquo;e-7 probe, set to explore the moon&rsquo;s South Pole. Following this, the Tianwen-3 mission, scheduled for around 2030, aims to retrieve samples from Mars, while the Tianwen-4 mission will concentrate on exploring Jupiter.

Beijing

China asks world's scientists to study lunar rocks

Driven by steep data usage and digital adoption, India is expected to witness a fivefold increase in data centre capacity in the coming years, according to a new report released Thursday.
&nbsp;
The country requires an additional 1.7 to 3.6 gigawatts (GW) of data centre capacity on top of the planned development of 2.32 GW of colocation capacity, the report by Cushman and Wakefield said.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
India is projected to add 464 megawatts (MW) of new colocation data centre capacity annually until 2028. As of the second half of 2023, the nation's colocation data centre capacity stood at 977 MW across the top seven cities.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
In 2023 alone, India added 258 MW of colocation capacity, a significant increase from the 126 MW added in 2022, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 105 percent.
&nbsp;
"This exponential growth is driven by several factors, including increased data consumption due to widespread digital adoption and the use of data-intensive technologies," the report stated.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The average Indian cell phone user consumes over 19 GB of data per month, the highest in the world. This surge in data consumption is coupled with a rapid increase in the adoption of internet services, smartphones, social media, and over-the-top (OTT) channels.
&nbsp;
The rising demand for data centres is crucial to transforming India&rsquo;s digital infrastructure.&nbsp;"Both colocation data centres and cloud firm-owned data centres are being built at growing speeds over the last few years," the report noted.
&nbsp;
Despite the average addition of 464 MW of colocation capacity each year until 2028, the report emphasised that India must continue to expand its data centre infrastructure to support its digital transformation. Over the next five years, India is likely to see the fastest growth in the penetration of smartphones, internet services, OTT subscriptions, and social media usage.

India's data center capacity to grow fivefold

Maldives environment minister Fathima Shamnaz Ali Saleem and three others were arrested on Thursday for allegedly performing black magic on President Mohamed Muizzu.
&nbsp;
Shamnaz, along with her ex-husband Adam Rameez, who served as a minister at the President&rsquo;s Office, and two other individuals, faces charges of using witchcraft purportedly to gain favour with President Muizzu.
&nbsp;
The arrests were made following an investigation that began on June 23, leading to their remand for seven days.
&nbsp;
The Ministry of Environment has since suspended Shamnaz from her position.
&nbsp;
Local media outlet Sun reported the removal of her name from the current political appointees list, and that now it appears among former appointees.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Assistant Commissioner of Police Ahmed Shifan confirmed that investigations are ongoing.
&nbsp;
Shamnaz&rsquo;s connection to Muizzu dates back to their time together on the Male City Council, where she served alongside him during his tenure as mayor.
&nbsp;
Following Muizzu's election as President last year, Shamnaz resigned from the council to assume her role at Muliaage, the presidential residence, before her transfer to the Environment Ministry.
&nbsp;
Adam Rameez, Shamnaz&rsquo;s ex-husband, was also closely linked to President Muizzu but had been absent from the public eye for the past five months, raising speculations.
&nbsp;
His involvement in the case further complicates the narrative.
&nbsp;
As of now, neither the Maldives government nor the President's office has issued an official statement regarding the arrests or the allegations.&nbsp;

Malé

Maldives minister arrested for hex on Prez Muizzu

India, driven by ambitious government initiatives such as the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, robust local manufacturing towards becoming a supply chain hub, and strong GDP growth, is on a trajectory to emerge as a leading global economic superpower in the coming decade.
&nbsp;
Over the past decade, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, India has launched various schemes leading to tremendous growth in local manufacturing, semiconductor plants, AI, 5G, startups, and innovation. These initiatives, including PLI schemes for various sectors, have also focused on workforce skill development and creating lakhs of new jobs.
&nbsp;
Driven by the PLI initiatives, India's manufacturing sector is forecast to expand threefold, projecting a market size of $1.66 trillion by FY34, up from $459 billion in FY24.
&nbsp;
This growth trajectory, surpassing previous decade averages, is expected to elevate the manufacturing sector's contribution to GDP from 14% in FY24 to 21% by FY34, supported by reduced logistics costs and enhanced infrastructure investments, which are slated to rise from 33% to 36% of GDP by fiscal year 2029.
&nbsp;
The electronics manufacturing sector alone has seen the creation of over 1.2 million new jobs, surpassing $100 billion, and is poised to reach $250 billion in the next five years.
&nbsp;
PLI schemes targeting 14 sectors are anticipated to attract investments ranging from Rs 3 lakh crore to Rs 4 lakh crore in the coming years.
&nbsp;
Addressing the Parliament on Thursday, President Droupadi Murmu said that the pace of reforms will be further accelerated in tune with the aspirations of the people of India for rapid development. In the last 10 years, India has risen to become the fifth-largest economy from the 11th-ranked one, she said.
&nbsp;
From 2021 to 2024, India has grown at an average rate of 8 percent annually. Today, India alone is contributing 15 percent of global growth, the president said. The last five years focused on key reforms by the government and policy changes, and the next five years are going to be about execution in making India a global powerhouse.

India to be global economic superpower by 2034

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has expelled two former defence ministers, Li Shangfu and Wei Fenghe, in a significant anti-corruption move. The official news agency Xinhua reported the expulsions on Thursday, underscoring the party&rsquo;s ongoing efforts to crack down on corruption within its ranks.
&nbsp;
This development comes at a time of escalating tensions between China and the United States, particularly regarding the situation in Taiwan.
&nbsp;
Li Shangfu, who was removed from his position in October 2023 after mysteriously disappearing from public view for nearly two months, has been accused of serious violations of party discipline and the law.
&nbsp;
His case has been referred to military prosecutors, potentially leading to a trial that could result in a life sentence. The CCP's Politburo, a senior leadership body, reviewed Li&rsquo;s status and concluded that he had "betrayed his original mission and lost his party spirit and principles," according to state broadcaster CCTV.
&nbsp;
The accusations against Li are severe. He is alleged to have "seriously polluted the political environment and industrial ethos in the field of military equipment," causing significant damage to national defence and military construction.
&nbsp;
Additionally, Li is accused of bribery, specifically of using his position to seek benefits for others in exchange for substantial sums of money and giving money to others to secure inappropriate benefits.
&nbsp;
Wei Fenghe, who retired as defence minister in 2023 after a five-year tenure, faces similar accusations. He is alleged to have accepted money and gifts in violation of the rules, using his position to benefit others and receiving money and valuables in return. Wei&rsquo;s case has also been referred to military prosecutors.
&nbsp;
Chinese President Xi Jinping, who leads the CCP and the armed forces as chairman of the Central Military Commission, has prioritised the fight against corruption since coming to power over a decade ago.
&nbsp;
However, some insiders suggest that the ongoing purges target officers suspected of disloyalty or connections with external forces. High-ranking military officers in China enjoy significant privileges and hold influential positions within the political landscape.
&nbsp;
This anti-corruption campaign reflects Xi&rsquo;s broader strategy to consolidate power and ensure loyalty within the CCP and the military. The timing of these expulsions, amid rising geopolitical tensions and upcoming significant CCP meetings, highlights the party&rsquo;s resolve to maintain strict internal discipline.
&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the CCP is preparing for a crucial meeting on July 15-18 to discuss future strategies amid increasing geopolitical challenges, including tariff hikes by the US and the European Union. This meeting is expected to shape the party's approach to addressing both internal and external pressures in the coming years.
&nbsp;
The expulsion of Li and Wei marks a notable chapter in Xi&rsquo;s anti-corruption campaign, demonstrating the CCP's commitment to rooting out corruption and reinforcing party discipline, even at the highest levels of government and the military.
&nbsp;
As China navigates complex international relations and internal challenges, the outcomes of these actions and forthcoming discussions will be pivotal in shaping the country's political and strategic direction.

Chinese Communist Party expels two ex-defence min

TV actor Hina Khan has been diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. The 36-year-old actor issued an official statement on Instagram. She requested for privacy and assured fans that she would overcome this challenge with her family by her side.
&nbsp;
Hina Khan&rsquo;s Instagram statement on her breast cancer diagnosis read: &ldquo;Hello Everyone, To address the recent rumour, I want to share some important news with all the Hinaholics and everyone who loves and cares for me. I have been diagnosed with Stage Three Breast Cancer. Despite this challenging diagnosis, I want to reassure everyone that I am doing well. I am strong, determined, and fully committed to overcoming this disease. My treatment has already begun, and I am ready to do everything necessary to emerge from this even stronger (sic).&rdquo;
&nbsp;
Further adding, &ldquo;I kindly ask for your respect and privacy during this time. I deeply appreciate your love, strength, and blessings. Your personal experiences, anecdotes, and supportive suggestions would mean the world to me as I navigate this journey. I, along with my family and loved ones, remain focused, determined, and positive. With the grace of the Almighty, we believe I will overcome this challenge and be completely healthy. Please send your prayers, blessings. and love. Love, Hina (sic).&rdquo;
&nbsp;
Hina Khan has been one of the most popular actors in the television industry. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Akshara in the popular TV serial, Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai. In addition to her television success, Hina has participated in reality shows like Bigg Boss and Khatron Ke Khiladi, showcasing her versatility and winning a considerable fan base. She then made a transition to films and digital platforms with projects like Hacked and Damaged 2.
&nbsp;

Actor Hina Khan diagnosed with breast cancer

Javelin thrower DP Manu, an Olympic hopeful, has been instructed to withdraw from competitions by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) following directions from the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), due to suspicions of doping.
&nbsp;
The 24-year-old, who clinched a silver medal at the 2023 Asian Championships, was poised to qualify for the Olympics through the world ranking quota.
&nbsp;
However, this latest development has jeopardized his chances of competing in Paris.
&nbsp;
Initially listed for the National Inter-State Championships that began on Thursday, Manu's name was conspicuously absent from the updated roster.
&nbsp;
AFI president Adille Sumariwalla confirmed that NADA had directed the federation to prevent Manu from participating in competitions, though he did not confirm whether a doping offence had been committed.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;There could be something like that, but we still don't know what is the actual thing. There was a phone call to the AFI office (from NADA) yesterday that he (Manu) be stopped from competitions,&rdquo; Sumariwalla said.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;Otherwise there are no details on what kind of possible violation. I think the athlete himself (DP Manu) is finding out from NADA what is the exact thing,&rdquo; he added.
&nbsp;
Manu showcased remarkable performances recently, finishing second behind Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra with a throw of 82.06m in the Federation Cup in May and winning gold in the Taiwan Athletics Open in June with a throw of 81.58m.
&nbsp;
Manu was ranked 15th in the World Athletics Road to Paris list and was on track to qualify for the Paris Olympics, where 32 athletes will compete in the men&rsquo;s javelin throw event. The qualification deadline is June 30.
&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Neeraj Chopra and Kishore Jena have already secured their spots for the Olympics by surpassing the entry standard of 85.50m.
&nbsp;
A country can have a maximum of three athletes in an Olympics track and field event.

DP Manu's Olympic bid hit by doping charges

In a significant relief for former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, the Jharkhand High Court on Friday granted him regular bail in a land scam case. After hearing arguments from both sides on June 13, Justice Rongon Mukhopadhyay reserved the order, which was announced on Friday.
&nbsp;
Soren has been in judicial custody since his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on January 31 in connection with an alleged money laundering case related to the alleged land scam.
&nbsp;
Following the rejection of his interim bail plea and withdrawal of his petition from the Supreme Court, Soren had approached the Jharkhand High Court for regular bail.
&nbsp;
Additional Solicitor General SV Raju, representing the ED, had argued against granting him bail, claiming that Soren was the primary beneficiary of the scam. Raju had alleged that Soren illegally occupied 8.86 acres of land in the Bargain area in Ranchi, constituting money laundering under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) 2002.
&nbsp;
He contended that Soren, being influential, could misuse state machinery to obstruct the investigation if released on bail.
&nbsp;
Raju had further alleged that there were plans to build a banquet hall on the disputed land, and a map had been sent to Soren's phone by Architect Vinod Singh. He also mentioned that Singh conducted a survey of the land at the behest of Soren&rsquo;s media advisor, Abhishek Prasad &lsquo;Pintu&rsquo;.
&nbsp;
Additionally, Revenue Sub-Inspector Bhanu Pratap Prasad admitted in his statement that he provided a detailed report on the land following instructions
from the Chief Minister's Office, and Hillarius Kacchap assisted Soren in illegally occupying the land.
&nbsp;
On the other hand, Advocate Meenakshi Arora, representing Soren, had argued that the case was not about money laundering but rather a political vendetta and malicious prosecution by the central government misusing the ED.
&nbsp;
She had contended that the allegations about planning a banquet hall did not pertain to the 8.86 acres of land for which Soren was being prosecuted. Arora had emphasised that the investigation was still ongoing and urged the court to grant bail without delving into the merits of the case at this stage.
&nbsp;
The ED is investigating alleged large-scale proceeds of crime generated through manipulation of official records, involving dummy sellers and purchasers using forged documents to acquire valuable land.
&nbsp;
So far, the ED has provisionally attached land parcels worth Rs 266 crore and arrested 22 individuals, including IAS officer Chhavi Ranjan, Revenue Sub-Inspector Bhanu Pratap Prasad, Amit Kumar Agarwal, and Prem Prakash, in connection with the money laundering case linked to the land scam.

Jharkhand HC grants bail to former CM Hemant Soren

The Lok Sabha witnessed a heated session as opposition members, led by Rahul Gandhi, demanded a thorough discussion on the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) controversy. The uproar stemmed from allegations of a paper leak and irregularities surrounding the NEET and UGC-NET examinations.
&nbsp;
Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition, called for a respectful and comprehensive discussion on the issue, emphasising the importance of addressing the concerns of the youth.
&nbsp;
He expressed the collective stance of the opposition, stating that all opposition leaders had unanimously agreed on the need for a dedicated discussion on NEET in the Parliament.
&nbsp;
Before entering the Parliament, Rahul Gandhi said, &ldquo;Yesterday, all the leaders of the opposition parties had a meeting and it was unanimous that today, we want a discussion on the NEET issue. There should be a discussion on NEET here in the House. I request the Prime Minister that this is an issue of the youth and it should be discussed properly and it should be a respectful discussion. We will do it respectfully. You should also join the discussion, you should also participate because this is a matter for the youth. A message should go from the Parliament that the Indian government and the opposition are talking about the students together.&rdquo;
&nbsp;
Despite the opposition&rsquo;s demands, Speaker Om Birla insisted that the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President&rsquo;s Address be prioritised. This decision led to the adjournment of the Lok Sabha till 12 noon amidst loud protests from opposition MPs.
&nbsp;
Rahul Gandhi reiterated the opposition&rsquo;s intent to send a unified message to the students of India, highlighting the significance of the NEET issue and the need for a respectful dialogue.
&nbsp;
He said, &ldquo;We wanted to give a joint message to the students of India, on behalf of the Opposition and the Government &ndash; that we consider this an important issue. So, we thought that to respect students we will have a discussion on NEET today, a dedicated discussion&hellip;&rdquo;
&nbsp;
Adding to the opposition's voice, Aam Aadmi Party MP Sandeep Pathak described the situation as unfortunate, pointing out two major concerns: the paper leak and irregularities in marking, which he termed as institutional fraud.
&nbsp;
He held the National Testing Agency (NTA), the Union Education Minister, and the Prime Minister responsible for the fiasco.
&nbsp;
Pathak asserted, &ldquo;What happened in NEET is very unfortunate. It has two sides to it &ndash; first, the paper leak, and second, the irregularities in marking and institutional fraud. Nabbing one individual will not be enough. NTA, Union Education Minister, and the PM are responsible for this.&rdquo;
&nbsp;
The Rajya Sabha also faced disruptions and was adjourned till noon after some members attempted to move to the well of the house.
&nbsp;
The controversy surrounding NEET-UG and UGC-NET exams took a serious turn when the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) registered a criminal case on June 23 over alleged irregularities in the conduct of the examination by the NTA.
&nbsp;
The CBI has formed special teams to probe the matter, following reports of isolated incidents in a few states during the NEET (UG) 2024 examination held on May 5, 2024.
&nbsp;
The NEET (UG) 2024 examination saw an unprecedented number of candidates achieving perfect scores, leading to widespread protests. With over 23 lakh candidates appearing for the exam across 4,750 centres in 571 cities, including 14 cities abroad, the allegations of a paper leak and irregularities have raised significant concerns.
&nbsp;
In response, the Ministry of Education has constituted a high-level committee of experts to recommend reforms in the examination process, improvements in data security protocols, and the overall functioning of the NTA. This move aims to restore the integrity of the examination system and address the concerns raised by the opposition and the public.

Lok Sabha adjourned amid NEET controversy protests

Punjab Police successfully busted one of the biggest interstate opium smuggling syndicates operating from Jharkhand with the arrest of two smugglers and seized 66 kg of drugs.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The information of the same was shared by Director General of Police, Gaurav Yadav via post on X.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The post says, "Fazilka police busts one of the biggest interstate opium smuggling syndicate operating from #Jharkhand with the arrest of #BigFish and effective seizure of 66 kg opium and meticulously followed up the financial trail which led to the freezing of Rs 1.86 crore in 42 bank accounts after arresting 2 smugglers."&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The DGP said further investigations are going on to establish linkages in this case.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Meanwhile, CP Amritsar Police, in two different cases has recovered 9.2 Kg of Heroin and arrested three individuals.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Yadav stated, "In the first case, PS Chheharta has apprehended two drug smugglers from the area of Shiva Enclave, Rajasansi, Amritsar Rural In the second case, PS Ranjit Avenue has arrested a drug smuggler and recovered 1 Kg Heroin In both the cases, FIRs under NDPS Act have been registered and Investigations on-going to establish backward &amp; forward linkages."&nbsp; 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Acting swiftly on intelligence inputs, CP Amritsar Police, in two different cases has recovered 9.2 Kg Heroin and arrested three persons In the first case, PS Chheharta has apprehended two drug smugglers from the area of Shiva Enclave, Rajasansi, Amritsar Rural In the second&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/tv951aWYK3">pic.twitter.com/tv951aWYK3</a>
&mdash; DGP Punjab Police (@DGPPunjabPolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/DGPPunjabPolice/status/1806568281295499418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
𝐁𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐮𝐦 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐝𝐞 Fazilka police busts one of the biggest Interstate Opium smuggling syndicate operating from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jharkhand?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jharkhand</a> with the arrest of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BigFish?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BigFish</a> and effective seizure of 66 Kg Opium and meticulously followed up financial&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/KFlE4UHvzv">pic.twitter.com/KFlE4UHvzv</a>
&mdash; DGP Punjab Police (@DGPPunjabPolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/DGPPunjabPolice/status/1806511250349986159?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2024</a></blockquote>

Punjab police busts biggest interstate opium ring

Global investment bank Morgan Stanley has praised India's PM Gati Shakti scheme for significantly advancing the country's infrastructure development and multi-modal connectivity, notably in highways, railways, and ports. This progress is seen as a catalyst for economic growth.
&nbsp;
The bank's report highlights that India has substantially upgraded its infrastructure over the past decade, with increased and better-targeted investments, promising greater productivity.
&nbsp;
"We expect India&rsquo;s infrastructure investment to steadily increase from 5.3 per cent of GDP in FY24 to 6.5 per cent of GDP by FY29," the report states. "This implies that infrastructure investments are expected to register a strong 15.3 per cent CAGR, resulting in cumulative spending of USD 1.45 trillion over the next five years. This will help lift the investment rate, leading to a sustained period of high productive growth."
&nbsp;
Contrary to popular perception, the report notes that India's physical infrastructure already compares favourably to China&rsquo;s when considering the GDP differential.
&nbsp;
Citing the World Bank&rsquo;s Logistics Index Report 2023, Morgan Stanley highlights that the average container dwell time in Indian ports was three days, compared to four days in the UAE and South Africa, seven days in the USA, and 10 days in Germany.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;Additionally, Indian ports' turnaround time has reached 0.9 days, outperforming the USA (1.5 days), Australia (1.7 days), and Singapore (1.0 days). In FY24, the overall cargo growth at ports was 7 per cent, with major ports (government-owned) handling 53 per cent of the cargo.
&nbsp;
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan for infrastructure development in October 2021. The plan integrates 16 ministries, including Railways and Highways, on a digital platform to ensure coordinated implementation of multi-modal connectivity projects.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;It aims to drive economic growth and sustainable development through seven key sectors: roads, railways, airports, ports, mass transport, waterways, and logistics infrastructure.
&nbsp;
According to the Morgan Stanley report, initiatives under PM Gati Shakti are producing results. So far, 101 projects worth Rs 60,900 crore have been identified for implementation in the ports and shipping sectors. As of April 2023, 26 projects worth Rs 8,900 crore have been completed, 42 projects worth Rs 15,340 crore are under development, and 33 projects worth Rs 36,640 crore are under implementation.
&nbsp;
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) is also executing a comprehensive port connectivity plan in coordination with the highways and railways ministries.
&nbsp;
Under the Sagarmala programme, 220 projects worth Rs 1.12 lakh crore have been completed, 231 projects worth Rs 2.21 lakh crore are under implementation, and 351 projects worth Rs 2.07 lakh crore are at the evaluation stage. National waterways are also being developed as an efficient and eco-friendly mode of transport for cargo and passengers.

PM Gati Shakti scheme spurs India's infra, growth

Fishermen&nbsp; of Chitkul village have demanded that the government to divert industrial effluents flowing into the Pedda Cheruvu located in the village.
&nbsp;
The demand comes in the wake of a large number of fish being found dead in the Chitkul lake on Wednesday, leaving about 100 fishermen&rsquo;s families in shock.
&nbsp;
Local fishermen had claimed on Wednesday that nearly 10 tonnes of fish died.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
While the Fisheries department had released 1.2 lakh fishlings into the water body last year, the fishermen had also released fishlings worth Rs.12 lakh by spending from their pocket during the last rainy season.
&nbsp;
However, officials of the Pollution Control Board (PCB) could not find out yet what led to the lower Dissolved Oxygen (DO) levels in the water.
&nbsp;
The fishermen alleged that the dead fish started floating on Monday, a day after the area witnessed a good amount of rain.
&nbsp;
Speaking to the media, Fishermen&rsquo;s Society president Gyarala Srinivas alleged that some industries might have dumped industrial waste or effluents into the water body.
&nbsp;
A stream is seen flowing into the Chitkul Pedda Cheruvu from Pashamylaram and Isnapur industrial areas. Showing evidence, the fishermen said there were many industries alongside the stream. However, PCB officials said they had found no evidence of industrial pollution in the water after initial examinations.
&nbsp;
Another fisherman, Manne Simhadri, demanded that the government divert the stream straight into Nakkavagu located downstream of Pedda Cheruvu, so that the water could be kept clean.
&nbsp;
Kattameedhi Mallesh, a 60-year-old member of society, said he had never witnessed such an incident in his lifetime. Asking the officials to find out the exact reason, Mallesh urged the government to extend compensation to the Society. Saying that they were preparing to carry out fishing in a week, the society members said the incident had dashed their hopes of getting good profits this year.

Telangana

T'gana: Over 10 tonnes fishes found dead in lake

A portion of the canopy at Delhi Airport&rsquo;s Terminal 1 collapsed early Friday morning amid heavy rainfall, resulting in the tragic death of one individual and injuries to four others. In response to this unfortunate event, Union Minister of Civil Aviation K Ram Mohan Naidu announced a compensation of Rs 20 lakh for the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 3 lakh each for the injured.
&nbsp;
Minister Naidu emphasised that the incident is being taken very seriously by the authorities. He clarified that the collapsed building is an old structure, opened in 2009, and is separate from the newly inaugurated terminal by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which is on the other side of the airport.
&nbsp;
He extended his condolences to the affected families, stating, "We express our condolences to the life that has been lost in this tragic incident. Four people have also been injured, and we are taking care of them right now." The minister assured that all necessary measures are being taken to address the situation and prevent any further incidents.
&nbsp;
Immediately following the collapse, emergency response teams, including the fire safety team, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), were dispatched to the site. "We immediately sent the emergency response team, the fire safety team, and also the CISF and NDRF teams. Everyone was available at the site, and they have conducted a thorough inspection to ensure no other casualties," said Naidu.
&nbsp;
In light of the incident, all flight operations from Terminal 1 have been suspended until further notice. The Ministry of Civil Aviation released a statement confirming the suspension and detailing the ongoing efforts to manage the situation. "Heavy rain in the early morning today has resulted in the collapse of the canopy of Delhi Airport Terminal 1. As a result, flights to and from Terminal 1 have been closed until further notice. Alternate arrangements are being made for the smooth operation of flights," read the statement.
&nbsp;
The minister further assured that the rest of the terminal building is being thoroughly inspected to ensure safety and prevent any further untoward incidents. "The situation is under control. The rest of the terminal building has been closed and everything is being thoroughly inspected so that there is no further untoward incident here," Naidu added.
&nbsp;
This incident highlights the impact of severe weather conditions on infrastructure and the importance of maintaining and regularly inspecting older structures to prevent such tragedies.
&nbsp;
The swift response from emergency services and the proactive measures taken by the authorities demonstrate their commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of passengers and staff at the airport.
&nbsp;
As investigations continue and repairs are made, passengers are advised to stay updated on flight operations and follow any new guidelines issued by the airport authorities.

Naidu addresses tragic incident at Delhi Airport

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi today raised the issue of NEET paper leak in the parliament seeking a discussion on it.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
He said a message was needed to be conveyed to the youth that both the government as well as the opposition was concerned about them as they were worried and anxious about their future.
&nbsp;
Speaking in the Lok Sabha today, Gandhi said, &ldquo;We want to give a joint message to the students of India, on behalf of the opposition and the government that we consider this an important issue&rdquo;.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Later talking to reporters, he said, that yesterday, all the leaders of the opposition parties had a meeting and it was unanimously decided that today they will seek a discussion on the NEET issue.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;There should be a discussion on NEET here in the house&rdquo;, he asserted, while urging the Prime Minister that this was an issue of the youth and it should be discussed properly and it should be a &ldquo;respectful&rdquo; discussion.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&ldquo;A message should go from the Parliament that the Indian government and the opposition are talking about the students together&rdquo;, Gandhi observed, while emphasizing the need for discussion in the parliament since the matter concerned the youth of the country, who were feeling anxious about their future.
&nbsp;
He said it was important that the anxious youth get the message that both the opposition as well as the government was concerned about them.

Must convey govt, oppn concerned about NEET: Rahul

Following the heavy rains in Delhi, several parts of the city, today, faced, power cuts, the officials stated. Power disruption was caused due to technical faults and precautionary shutdown in the city's waterlogged areas, the officials of power distribution companies (discoms) operating in Delhi said. &nbsp;
Residents of Dwarka, Jangpura and Laxmi Nagar said the power supply was cut as soon as it started raining in their areas.&nbsp;
 A discom official said the rain caused damages to power lines, poles and other installations in different parts of the national capital causing the outages. However, repair works to restore the supply were undertaken immediately, he added.&nbsp;
 In many areas, the electricity supply was temporarily discontinued to prevent incidents of electrocution, the official said.
 Heavy rains lashed Delhi early Friday, waterlogging roads across the city and causing a portion of the roof of the Delhi airport's Terminal 1 to collapse.
 The Safdarjung weather station recorded 153.7 mm of rainfall, which began around 3 am. The India Meteorological Department defines very heavy rain, amounting to 124.5 to 244.4 mm of rain in a day.

Delhi faces power cuts amid heavy rains

The government is set to retain its focus on rapid infrastructure development this fiscal, with plans to potentially increase capital expenditure allocations for the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) in the upcoming budget for FY25, according to a report.
&nbsp;
The report indicates that the increase in allocations is expected to be moderate, likely ranging between 5 percent and 10 percent above the FY24 revised estimates.
&nbsp;
This adjustment comes as the government anticipates a significant rise in private sector investments in road construction projects, particularly under the build-operate-transfer (BOT) toll model.
&nbsp;
Private investments in FY24 reached Rs 34,805 crore and are projected to nearly double in FY25, up from Rs 20,000 crore in FY23.
&nbsp;
The BOT toll projects allow private sector participants to assume construction risks and invest in road development, thereby reducing the burden on government spending.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Approximately 20-25 percent of highway projects this year are expected to be awarded under the BOT toll model, easing the government's financial outlay for infrastructure development.
&nbsp;
This strategy aligns with the government's broader objective of accelerating infrastructure growth while managing fiscal prudence.
&nbsp;
With this focused approach, the government aims to sustain the momentum of infrastructure development, crucial for economic growth and connectivity improvements across the country.
&nbsp;
The anticipated budget allocations are expected to bolster ongoing and new road projects, ensuring enhanced connectivity and supporting economic activities.

Budget FY 25 to focus more on infra growth: Report

Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha wished all pilgrims travelling on the Amarnath Yatra a safe, joyful, and spiritually rewarding trek on Friday. &nbsp;"May the blessings of Baba Amarnath Ji bring peace, happiness, and prosperity to everyone's life," he said.
&nbsp;
The first group of 4,603 pilgrims set off from Jammu's Bhagwati Nagar base camp, reciting Vedic mantras. 
&nbsp;
The convoy consisted of 231 light and heavy trucks.
&nbsp;
In his media statement following the flag-off, LG Sinha remarked, "The first batch of Amarnath Yatra +pilgrims has departed from Jammu."
The Yatra has been meticulously planned for three to four years, and this year is no exception. The J&amp;K administration has made the required precautions, and security has been tightened." Thousands of pilgrims have already arrived in Jammu, with the first batch scheduled to travel under tight security to the Pahalgam and Baltal base 
camps, where they will begin their Yatra.
&nbsp;
The flag-off was attended by famous spiritual leaders, heads of religious organisations, public representatives, senior civil administration authorities, police, security forces, the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board, influential citizens, and a great number of devotees.
&nbsp;
BJP leader Devender Singh Rana also extended his greetings to the pilgrims, stating, "We hope that, with the grace of Bhole Shankar, this year's Yatra will bring happiness and be a nice experience for everyone, as it has been in previous years."
&nbsp;
People will experience the warmth, affection, and caring of Jammu &amp; Kashmir locals. Pilgrims from all around the country will seek Lord Shiva's blessings.
The Yatra will help to improve both India and Jammu and Kashmir. All the necessary arrangements have been made, he added.
&nbsp;
CCTV cameras have been installed along national highways to improve security and alleviate traffic congestion.
&nbsp;
Saloni Rai, Deputy Commissioner of Udhampur, remarked, "To improve security further, CCTV cameras have been mounted on the national route.&rdquo;
&nbsp;
Around ten CCTV sites have been installed from Udhampur to Banihal for constant surveillance. "If any traffic concerns emerge, we can handle them right away.&nbsp;Our goal is to provide all required amenities for Amarnath Yatra pilgrims, such as food, drink, and electricity,&rdquo; she said.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

J&K LG flags off first batch of Amarnath yatris

The group stages of Euro 2024 concluded dramatically on Wednesday. Rank outsiders Georgia shocked Cristiano Ronaldo&rsquo;s Portugal, securing a place in the knockout stages of the tournament. All four teams in Group E started the day with three points, and after two draws, all finished with four points. Ukraine was eliminated on goal difference.
&nbsp;
Georgia's Historic Victory
&nbsp;
In Gelsenkirchen, Georgia defied the odds by defeating the 2016 champions Portugal 2-0. This victory, their first in a major tournament, was achieved with goals from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Georges Mikautadze. This remarkable win has set up a last-16 tie against Spain. 
<figure class="image"><img src="https://api.newsarenaindia.com//uploads/georgianaijpg_1719557302063.jpg" width="1500" height="800">
<figcaption>The Georgian team celebrates scoring a goal against Portugal.</figcaption>
</figure>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
A Lopsided Draw
&nbsp;
The knockout stage draw is notably unbalanced. Powerhouses Spain, Germany, France, and Portugal find themselves on the same half of the draw, ensuring only one of them can reach the final. This imbalance partly results from Didier Deschamps&rsquo; France finishing second in their group.
&nbsp;
Easier path for some
&nbsp;
On the other side of the draw, one of Romania, Netherlands, Austria, and Turkey is guaranteed a semi-final spot. England faces a potentially less challenging path, with Slovakia, Switzerland, and Romania as possible opponents on their way to a first tournament final on foreign soil.
&nbsp;
Belgium through, but struggling 
&nbsp;
Belgium managed to progress but finished second in their group and now face tournament favourites France. Despite their talent, Belgium's lack of finishing ability was evident, with Romelu Lukaku missing a crucial chance. This deficiency could prove costly against stronger opponents.
&nbsp;
Romania and Slovakia; Silencing the skeptics
&nbsp;
Romania and Slovakia both knew a draw would see them through from Group E. Despite fears of a repeat of the infamous 1982 "Disgrace of Gijon," both teams played to win. Slovakia, guided by Francesco Calzona, showcased a blend of tactical acumen and set-piece intelligence.
&nbsp;
Ukraine's brave exit:&nbsp;A nation's pride
&nbsp;
Ukraine's journey at Euro 2024 ended despite a goalless draw. The team's qualification itself was a significant achievement given the turmoil caused by the Russian invasion. Serhiy Rebrov&rsquo;s side displayed commendable resilience and pride throughout the tournament. 
<figure class="image"><img src="https://api.newsarenaindia.com//uploads/ukrainenaijpg_1719557196055.jpg" width="1500" height="800">
<figcaption>Ukrainian squad expresses their gratitude to the fans.</figcaption>
</figure>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The dirtiest game in Euros history?
&nbsp;
Turkey vs. Czech Republic
&nbsp;
The high-stakes Group F match between Turkey and the Czech Republic descended into chaos, earning the dubious distinction of the dirtiest game in Euros history. With 16 yellow cards and two reds, the game saw multiple players, including those not on the pitch, being booked. The match culminated in a dramatic 94th-minute winner for Turkey and a post-match altercation resulting in further disciplinary action. 
<figure class="image"><img src="https://api.newsarenaindia.com//uploads/futbolturkeynaijpg_1719557249975.jpg" width="1500" height="800">
<figcaption>The Turkish team celebrate their victory against Czechia.</figcaption>
</figure>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Berlin

EURO 24: Georgia stun Portugal; into the knockouts

The Uttar Pradesh cabinet has given the green light to a plan proposed by Tata Sons to construct a 'temple museum' in Ayodhya, with an estimated budget of Rs 650 crore.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Tourism Minister Jaivir Singh disclosed that the tourism department will offer the company a 90-year lease on the land for a nominal fee of Re 1, to develop the museum to international standards.
&nbsp;
"Tata Sons had proposed the project through the Central government, offering to build the museum at a cost of Rs 650 crore under its corporate social responsibility fund," Singh said at a press meet here after the cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
&nbsp;
Last year, there were discussions about establishing a "museum of temples" in Ayodhya. In September, Chief Minister Adityanath and senior officials gave a presentation about it to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
&nbsp;
At that time, the plan was to display the history and architecture of well-known temples in the country. There was also talk about creating a light-and-sound show at the proposed museum.
&nbsp;
Singh mentioned that the state cabinet also approved another proposal from Tata Sons to execute development works in the temple town at an extra cost of Rs 100 crore.
&nbsp;
Tata Sons is the primary investment holding company and promoter of Tata Companies.

Ayodhya

Tata Sons secures Ayodhya museum land for Re 1

Four individuals were arrested by the Economic Offences Unit (EOU) of Bihar Police on Thursday, in link with the constable recruitment examination question paper leak on October 1, 2023. Three were arrested from West Bengal.&nbsp;
 The arrested persons are Kaushik Kumar Kar and Sanjay Das, both residents of North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, and Suman Biswas from Kolkata. Another arrested person, Saurabh Bandhopadhay, hails from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;
 The leak leads to exam cancellation by the Central Selection Board of Constables (CSBC) on October 3. &nbsp;
 Earlier, on June 5, the EOU had arrested Ashwani Ranjan, Vikki Kumar, and Aniket, all residents of Bihar and alleged members of the interstate Sanjeev Mukhiya gang, currently in judicial custody.&nbsp;
 Several members of the Mukhiya gang have already been arrested by Bihar Police in connection with the NEET (UG) and Bihar Public Service Commission's (BPSC) Teachers Recruitment Exam (TRE) - 3 paper leak cases.&nbsp;
 The EOU has so far registered a total of 74 FIRs across various districts and arrested over 150 people in various question paper leak cases.&nbsp;
 According to a statement by the EOU, Kaushik Kumar Kar's Kolkata-based firm, Caltex Multiventure Pvt Ltd, had been awarded the contract to print and supply the question papers for the Bihar constable recruitment examination. However, it was discovered that Caltex Multiventure Pvt Ltd was a one-room shell firm with no employees, and printing and supply of question papers were outsourced to Blessing Secured Press Pvt Ltd, where Kar's wife was a director.&nbsp;
 Further investigations revealed that Kar had allegedly been previously involved in question paper leak cases for recruitment exams conducted by the Uttar Pradesh Public Services Commission (UPPSC) in 2019 and the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) in 2022, prompting him to establish Blessing Secured Press Pvt Ltd.
 The EOU's statement also highlighted serious deviations from standard operating procedures regarding the transportation, storage, and handover of question papers by Kar and his associates. Instead of sending the question papers to the state treasury as agreed, Kar's affiliated firms sent them to a warehouse owned by DP World Express Logistic Pvt Ltd in Patna, where they remained for six days without notifying the authorities.
 "During this period, members of the Sanjeev Mukhiya gang were contacted by Kar, and the question papers were opened and circulated among gang members for further distribution to aspirants, who paid substantial sums for the advance knowledge," the statement said.
 The statement further noted that during the examination on October 1, several candidates were caught cheating using electronic devices and other fraudulent methods, leading to the exam's postponement.
 Subsequent complaints of irregularities prompted the cancellation of the exam and the postponement of tests scheduled for October 7 and October 15.
 The Bihar Police Constable 2023 recruitment aimed to fill 21,391 vacancies across various wings of the state police. The examination was conducted at 529 centres across 37 districts of Bihar on October 1, attracting over 18 lakh aspirants.&nbsp;

Patna

Four held in Bihar constable exam paper leak

With opinion polls showing a very tight race for the November 5 US elections, the first presidential debate between President Joe Biden from the Democratic Party and his Republican challenger Donald Trump could turn the tide for either candidate. This highly anticipated debate is seen as a crucial moment in the election, potentially influencing undecided voters and solidifying support for one of the contenders.&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
President Joe Biden, aged 81, aims to convince voters of his capability to lead the United States through its current challenges and secure a second term. His performance will be critical in addressing concerns about his age and demonstrating his competence.&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
On the other hand, Donald Trump, aged 78, will seek to use this platform to shift public focus away from his criminal conviction and highlight his plans for the country's future, particularly regarding economic policies. Trump's ability to persuade voters to overlook his legal issues and rally behind his vision for America will be a key aspect of his debate strategy.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Both the leaders arrived here in the afternoon on Thursday. This debate is going to be "extraordinary" and different as the whole attention will be on the "character of the two presidents", Nadia Bilbassy-Charters Bureau Chief at the Al Arabiya News Channel, who has covered presidential debates since the George Bush era, stated.&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"This is "completely different (from the previous ones). It is happening the first time and before the conventions of both the DNC (Democratic National Convention in August) and the RNC (Republican National Convention in July). It is happening without an audience, and there is a microphone that will cut them off when they try to interrupt," she said.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"This is extraordinary by every means. We have two candidates that 70 per cent of the American people don't want. There are two candidates who repeat in a scenario of 2020, so this is an extraordinary time for America as well," Bilbassy-Charters said.&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The choice is between two candidates, and for a country that has 350 million people, it is very narrowed, she said and added that it is also very different because the whole attention will be on the "character of the two presidents" as not really on the issues as it happened in the previous debates.&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
There is a huge focus on the debate tonight because it is seen as a way to "frame not just the issues but the candidates", Bilbassy-Charters said.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"The whole world is really anticipating what's going to happen. The expectation is very low for President Biden. Everybody's waiting to see if he's going to stand for 90 minutes, if he's going to make mistakes, if he's going to lose concentration, if he's going to make up names of leaders, if Trump is going to be intimidating as he did before," she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Richard Latendresse, the White House correspondent for TVA-Canada, said the debate is extremely important for both the camps.&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"There's this feeling that there's stagnation in this campaign, that nothing seems to stick to Donald Trump, but he cannot bring down more than what has happened until now with Joe Biden, with his government and his administration. So, this is an important moment in this campaign, and each side hopes that from there things are going to get better and better," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Lakeyta Bonnette-Bailey, Professor of Africana Studies at the Georgia State University, said she expects from the people to tune in to watch how the candidates are going to behave and to watch the policy issues that the candidates are going to present at the debate.&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"I expect the candidates to talk about and discuss policy issues that are relevant to their base," she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Cristina Olea, TVE's chief correspondent in Washington DC, said, "I would say this debate is very important because the country is so divided, the candidates are so different, their policies, their styles."&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The race is so close, and tonight, Biden has a lot of pressure to show that he is not too old for office and Trump needs to show that he is not so aggressive, he said Running for the State Senate in the 48th District of Georgia, Ashwin Ramaswami, 24, said this debate is a great opportunity for Biden and Trump to actually show the American people what they really believe in.&nbsp;&nbsp;
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"I believe it's an opportunity for President Biden to show why Democrats up and down the ballot are the right choice for our country," he stated.&nbsp;&nbsp;
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Ramaswami said one of the most important things they need is a leader who is able to create that transition, being able to make sure that the next generation of leaders are able to serve the country in the future.&nbsp;&nbsp;
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"What that means is we need someone who understands the issues we face, whether it's issues on affordable housing, access to healthcare, preparing us for the technology of the future, and also leading with integrity and balance," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;
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Ajay Jain Bhaturia, a major fund raiser for the Biden campaign, said, "The debate between President Biden and Trump, is the debate between the light and the darkness, the debate between progress and regression. What we saw, the four years of Trump, where he basically incited the mob to go to the Capitol and to turn around the election, or what we saw was the highest number of jobs being lost, manufacturing jobs being lost under Trump administration," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;
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"What we have seen under the Biden administration is stability, bringing all the different communities together and the highest number of employment, or the lowest unemployment rate, the largest investment in infrastructure since Roosevelt," Bhaturia added.&nbsp;&nbsp;
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"There's been growth, and we have seen leadership restored on the world stage. That's what President Biden will be talking about is progress. With the Democrats we are looking at the best days of America ahead while the Republicans talk about the best days which are gone behind," he said.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
According to Subhash Razdan, an eminent Indian American community leader, Americans are not happy with the quality of the candidates.&nbsp;
 "In Biden, they see the age factor. And, in Trump they see a credibility factor. Now, it all depends on what lines the voters will choose to vote. If they go by party lines, then Trump would have an edge," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;
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"I feel Trump will attack him on his age factor, not being alert and the immigration issues, saying that Democrats have been very weak on the immigration issues. Biden will try to attack him on the credibility factor," Razdan cited.&nbsp;&nbsp;
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Meanwhile, the White House Correspondents Association slammed event host CNN for providing no access to its pool reporters inside the room wherein President Joe Biden and his predecessor Donald Trump would be engaging in the first of the three presidential debates.&nbsp;

Biden-Trump in pivotal first presidential debate

Junaid Khan describes "Maharaj" as a captivating script and an &ldquo;inherently dramatic&rdquo; story, marking his debut in the Hindi film industry with this social drama.
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Originally planned for a direct-to-digital release on Netflix, the Yash Raj Films project was quietly released on the streaming platform on Friday night without much fanfare or pre-release promotion.
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Directed by Siddharth P Malhotra and produced by Aditya Chopra, "Maharaj" stars Junaid, the son of Aamir Khan and Reena Dutta, in the role of the real-life 19th-century social reformer Karsandas Mulji. This marks his debut almost four decades after his father, Aamir Khan, entered the industry as a romantic hero in 1988's "Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak".
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"I don't know about it being an unconventional (debut) because YRF is a big banner, and Sid sir wanted me (in the film). The story is inherently very dramatic. I have been doing theatre in Mumbai since 2017. Sid sir asked me to come and test for this film. I didn't think of it as conventional or unconventional," Junaid told PTI in an interview when asked if the film was an unconventional choice as a newcomer.
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"Maharaj," based on an 1862 libel case involving Mulji and a Vaishnavite religious leader, briefly ran into legal trouble. The sect members filed a petition in the Gujarat High Court against the film.&nbsp;
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The release of the premiere was postponed by a week, but the high court approved its release after a short delay, stating that it did not single out any religious group. Junaid, who is working on two more films, one of which is with Aamir Khan Productions, is glad that the issue was resolved quickly.
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The movie, which is based on Saurabh Shah's Gujarati novel of the same name and also stars Jaideep Ahlawat, Sharvari, and Shalini Pandey, was previously scheduled to be released on Netflix on June 14.

'Maharaj' story inherently dramatic: Junaid Khan

The Indian film industry is anticipating the return of good times with the release of the 3D movie Kalki 2898 AD.&nbsp;
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Based on early trends, the movie is expected to earn over Rs 200 crore worldwide on its opening day, Thursday, according to industry experts.
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This science fiction and mythology spectacle features a star-studded cast including Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kamal Haasan, representing the leading talents from both the southern and Hindi film industries.&nbsp;
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The movie is also on track to achieve a premiere day earning of USD 4 million in the US, Canada, and other regions, according to the trade website Sacnilk.
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This is more than SS Rajamouli's "RRR", which had scored USD 3.3 million gross on its North America premiere in 2022. "Kalki 2898 AD" is now the film with "the biggest premiere for an Indian movie in North America", Sacnilk reported.
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Produced by Vyjayanthi Movies, "Kalki 2898 AD" has released in six languages: Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, Hindi and English. Previously titled "Project K", it is arguably the most expensive feature film in Indian cinema history at a reported Rs 600 crore.
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The film will breach the Rs 100 crore mark on the first day of its release, said trade analyst Girish Wankhede.
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"This film will be a big life saver. Apart from 'Shaitaan', no big (Hindi) film has been a superhit in the last six months. 'Kalki' will be like a breath of fresh air. It will earn Rs 100-110 crore in opening day collections across India and will cross the Rs 200 crore mark globally," Wankhede added.
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The big-budget multilingual film, which opened in theatres worldwide on Thursday, is directed by Nag Ashwin of "Mahanati" fame and is hailed as a fusion of the Hindu epic Mahabharata and science fiction.
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While it's too early, "Kalki 2898 AD" has all the makings of a "blockbuster hit", with its Hindi version pegged to be "the biggest opener of this year so far", said trade expert Taran Adarsh.

Kalki 2898 AD Hindi version biggest opener of 2024

India flaunted their superabundance of talent in a display of absolute dominance to storm into the final of the T20 World Cup with a 68-run shellacking of England in their semi-final here on Thursday.&nbsp;
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Leading the charge once again was their inspirational skipper Rohit Sharma, who laid the foundation with an aggressive 57 off 39 balls, and the captain was well-supported by Suryakumar Yadav (47 off 36), as India posted 171 for seven after being asked to bat first in the rain-hit match.&nbsp;
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In reply, England were bowled out for 103 in 16.4 overs as India set up a title clash with first-timers South Africa in Barbados on Saturday. This is India's third entry into the final of the tournament. Hardik Pandya chipped in with a 13-ball 23, striking two sixes at a crucial juncture to prop up India.&nbsp;
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On a slow, holding pitch with low bounce, left-arm Axar Patel (3/23) helped India tightened their grip on the match with his brilliant bowling, while his slow-bowling colleague Kuldeep Yadav (3/19) caused the damage in the middle overs.&nbsp;
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The Indian team thus exacted revenge for the crushing 10-wicket loss it endured against the defending champions in the 2022 semifinal of the mega-event at the Adelaide Oval.&nbsp;
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In the process, Rohit became the first Indian captain to lead the country in three ICC global finals in a space of 12 months - 2023 World Test Championship, 2023 ODI World Cup and now the T20 World Cup.&nbsp;
 Considering India's all-round bowling attack and nature of the surface, Rohit's men were expected to defend the total and they did that rather comfortably.&nbsp;
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His decision to use Axar in the powerplay proved to be a masterstroke as the left-arm spinner struck twice in quick succession, from which England could not recover.&nbsp;
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Wrist spinner Kuldeep also played his part to perfection on a pitch that suited the spinners all through the competition.&nbsp;
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Jos Buttler (23 off 15), Harry Brook (25 off 19) and Jofra Archer (21 off 15) were the only England batters to reach double figures, summing up India's dominance in the game. Both Buttler and Brook fell while attempting the reverse sweep against Axar and Kuldeep respectively.&nbsp;
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"We adapted to the conditions really well. It was a challenge and we adapted. We played the conditions really well," Rohit said after the match.
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India, who are yet to lose a game in the tournament, will be hoping that their star batter Virat Kohli finds run in the all-important title clash. Kohli (9 off 9) perished early once again on Thursday, trying to force the pace. &nbsp; The keenly awaited fixture was impacted by intermittent rain with the start of play being delayed by one hour and 15 minutes. Another long halt came when India were 65 for two in eight overs.&nbsp;
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As many as 250 additional minutes were allotted to the game but there was no reserve day. Soon after Kohli and Rohit came out to bat after England put the opposition in, it became clear the surface was on the slower side and low bounce made the task trickier for the batters.&nbsp;
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While Kohli fell early, Rohit adapted to the conditions much better and decided to play the ball late and behind the stumps. One example of that was the guide over backward point off Archer in the second over when the ball went through Phil Salt's hands to reach the boundary. Setting the benchmark for other batters, Rohit then collected back-to-back fours in Topley's third over before applying pressure on England's premier spinner Adil Rashid after India reached 46 for two in the powerplay.&nbsp;
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Rishabh Pant (4) was the second batter to be dismissed as he mistimed a flick to be caught at midwicket off Sam Curran.&nbsp;
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Then came the engrossing match-up between Rohit and Rashid where the Indian captain employed the reverse and conventional sweep to collect two fours from the leg-spinner's opening over.&nbsp;
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Suryakumar was batting on 13 alongside Rohit when rain returned at the Providence Stadium, forcing the game to be paused for more than an hour. The weather played spoilsport two balls after Suryakumar got inside the line to pick Jordan over fine leg for a maximum.&nbsp;
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England used the leg-spin of Rashid and Liam Livingstone from both ends after the forced break but they could not stifle Rohit and Suryakumar.&nbsp;A full toss from Rashid was duly dispatched over short fine leg for four, the first of many boundaries that India accumulated in the middle overs.&nbsp;
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The 13th over from Curran yielded 19 runs for India with Suryakumar smashing a couple of sixes and Rohit played a pick-up shot for a maximum that also brought up his second successive fifty.&nbsp;
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The entertaining 73-run ended when Rohit was beaten by a googly from Rashid while attempting a slog.&nbsp;
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Following Curran's bumper 13th over, the next fours were quiet for India before Hardik Pandya (23 off 13) hit two flat sixes on either side of the pitch to push the innings forward.&nbsp;
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Ravindra Jadeja (17 not out off 9), sent ahead of Shivam Dube, got two crucial fours off Archer in the penultimate over while the latter's stay lasted only one ball.&nbsp;
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Axar's six off Jordan in the final over took India past 170. The team scored 53 runs in the last five overs.

Georgetown

India storms into T20 WC finals

Some vendors on Flipkart have reported difficulties in adjusting the prices of their products since May 18, following the introduction of a new commission rate card by the e-commerce company.
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The Walmart group company has rejected any involvement in price manipulation on the platform and stated that they are collaborating with vendors to assist them in comprehending the new rate card policy.
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"Around hundreds of our members are facing issues in changing their product price. In India, no one can sell above maximum retail price (MRP) and sellers can decide on charging below MRP. Sellers have complained that they are unable to change the price after Flipkart issued the new rate card on May 18. Not all are facing this issue. Only select sellers are facing this problem," Vinod Kumar, Trustee, Forum for Internet Sellers, Traders and Resellers ( First India) said.
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He mentioned that Flipkart has communicated with sellers, assuring them that the problem will be fixed shortly.
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The FDI regulations prohibit any e-commerce company from getting involved in the pricing decisions made by sellers on their platform.
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Upon reaching out for comment, a Flipkart representative stated that the company abides by all FDI rules and does not exert any influence on pricing.
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"We closely engage with millions of sellers, sharing valuable insights and gathering their feedback on how to drive growth and efficiency for sellers on our marketplace platform. This continuous collaboration ensures that our initiatives, including the revamped rate card, align with the evolving needs of our seller community, fostering a thriving and dynamic marketplace.
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The all-new, simplified rate card policy is aimed at optimising growth avenues for sellers while enhancing settlement transparency," the spokesperson said.

Flipkart sellers report price change difficulties

Early Friday, a tragic accident occurred in Byadagi Taluk of Karnataka's Haveri district when a mini-bus carrying passengers from Shivamogga crashed into a stationary truck, resulting in the loss of at least 13 lives and leaving four others critically injured.&nbsp;
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According to a PTI report, the passengers were returning from a pilgrimage to Savadatti in Belagavi district after paying homage to Goddess Yallamma.
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The injured individuals are currently receiving medical attention in a hospital, and their condition is reported as serious.&nbsp;
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Authorities suspect the accident occurred because the bus driver fell asleep at the wheel.
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A total of 17 people were travelling in the minibus. Of them, eleven people died on the spot, while two others were declared dead at a hospital, a senior police official said.
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Among the four injured, two are admitted to the ICU of the hospital, he said.
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"The victims were coming from Chincholi Mayamma Devasthana and heading to their native Yemehatti village in Shivamogga district. The lorry was standing on the side of the highway. The tempo traveller hit the lorry from behind," Anshu Kumar Srivastava, Superintendent of Police (Haveri) told PTI.
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He said the bodies had been shifted to the mortuary, and the injured had been admitted to Haveri Government Hospital.
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