Sourav Ganguly backs Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharmas continued ODI careers

Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly has addressed swirling media speculation about the future of Indias white-ball stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

Kerala police plan brain mapping test on tribal woman

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala Police are planning to conduct brain mapping test on a 31-year-old tribal woman to shed light on the disappearance of her three-year-old daughter in Nilambur last year. Sources said the Pookkottumpadam police will soon move the Nilambur Judicial Magistrate Court seeking the nod to conduct brain mapping on the woman, who hails from Cholanaikkan tribe deemed a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group and is a person with intellectual disabilities. They said the cops decided to seek the nod after they could not make any headway in the case as the woman did not reveal what happened to her child. Brain mapping or brain fingerprinting is a technique in criminal investigation where the brain is prompted to talk. A few electrodes are attached to the scalp after which cues connected to the incident under probe are given. They act as stimuli prompting the brain to generate waves as responses which are examined using a software. The technique was used in high-profile cases such as the Aarushi Talwar case and Sr Abhaya case. As per an SC ruling, the test cannot be conducted without the subjects informed consent. In the womans case, the consent of her immediate relatives are required. If the police get the nod, it will be the first instance of a female member of one of Indias most isolated and endangered tribal groups undergoing the test, said a source. Polygraph, narcoanalysis ruled out The child went missing in June 2024 from Achanala settlement. The relatives entrusted the child with her mother and ventured into the forest to collect honey. Sources said the woman herself was suffering from high fever that day. When the relatives returned, the mother and the daughter were missing. While the woman was found wandering in the forest three days later, there was no trace of the child. The police were alerted about the childs disappearance around two weeks later. The polices Special Operation Group, and officials from the local police and forest department held a massive combing operation in the Western Ghat forests, but could not locate the child. The mother too did not reveal what happened to her. As a result, the police failed to make any headway in the case. The police decided to go for brain mapping as she was deemed unfit for polygraph and narcoanalysis tests. Taking into consideration her health, it was decided to go for brain mapping, subject to nod from court, said a police source. The settlement where the woman resides can only be accessed after a three-hour trek through forest. The police officers had a tough time communicating with the community members as they kept moving. The language barrier Cholanaikkans speak a distinct Dravidian language and their isolationist policies also made things tough for the cops. However, they won trust of the community, who then allowed them to relocate the elder sibling of the missing child.

Drainage repair: Alwarpet flyover turns two-lane road

Shanoo Sharma had weird ask: Mary Kom actor echoes Isha Talwar's experience against YRF casting director

After Isha Talwar accused YRF casting director Shanoo Sharma of inappropriate audition experience, Mary Kom actor Bijou Thaangjam has also come out to share his uncomfortable experience with her.

Traffic advisory: Chennai's Alwarpet flyover now two-way for drainage repair; heavy vehicles diverted

Due to ongoing repairs on a damaged rainwater drainage system on TTK Road, the Alwarpet flyover in Chennai is now operating as a two-way lane for light vehicles.

Australia A inflict 114-run defeat on India A in second Womens T20

MACKAY (AUSTRALIA), Aug 9: Australia A bowlers, led by pace-bowling stalwart Kim Garth, ran roughshod as India A suffered a demoralising 114-run defeat in the second unofficial T20I as the hosts took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. For the second consecutive match of the multi-format series, India A won the toss and chose to field, a decision that backfired big time with Australia A batting stalwart and the Southern Stars skipper, Alyssa Healy played a superb 70-run [] The post Australia A inflict 114-run defeat on India A in second Womens T20 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Here's a list of all compatible iPhones that can download the Apple iOS 26 beta update today

Apple's iOS 26 is coming this fall, giving your iPhone's operating system a big upgrade . My favorite is the visual update, called Liquid Glass it's like the better-executed version of Windows Vista . We spent two weeks test-driving it you can check out our detailed hands-on iOS 26 preview , or you can try it out yourself by downloading and installing the public beta . That software is a more stable iteration of the separate developer version, which recently hit the beta 5 waypoint, and offers a few more flashy features not yet available in the public version. (While the public beta is open to everyone and quite stable, always remember there's a degree of risk involved with beta software.) Not ready to upgrade your smartphone this year? No worries, we'll help you find out if your phone will be able to run iOS 26. While Apple didn't nix any iPhones from its eligibility list last year, that's not the case for 2025 a few models are getting cut this time. All iPhone 8 models and the iPhone X were the last to get the boot in 2023, and this year the 2018 models are getting left behind. If you have an ineligible device, you won't be able to download iOS 26 when it becomes available this fall. We'll get to the bottom of which iPhones will support iOS 26 this year. To see what's coming with the latest OS and more, check out everything announced at Apple's WWDC June 9 event . One thing you shouldn't immediately expect is Apple's updated version of Siri , though the company is reportedly working on a 'stripped-down' AI chatbot to compete with ChatGPT. These three iPhones won't be compatible with iOS 26 Unlike last year, several iPhone models won't be eligible to download the newest iOS when it makes its debut this fall. This trio of models first released in 2018 won't be coming to the iOS 26 party: iPhone XR iPhone XS iPhone XS Max iPhones compatible with iOS 26 While we don't yet know the new iPhones Apple will be dropping this fall though there are iPhone 17 rumors we do know, per Apple's site , that the phones listed below will be compatible with iOS 26. Basically, if you have an iPhone that was announced in 2019 or later, you're in the clear: iPhone SE (second generation or later) iPhone 11 iPhone 11 Pro iPhone 11 Pro Max iPhone 12 iPhone 12 mini iPhone 12 Pro iPhone 12 Pro Max iPhone 13 iPhone 13 mini iPhone 13 Pro iPhone 13 Pro Max iPhone 14 iPhone 14 Plus iPhone 14 Pro iPhone 14 Pro Max iPhone 15 iPhone 15 Plus iPhone 15 Pro iPhone 15 Pro Max iPhone 16e iPhone 16 iPhone 16 Plus iPhone 16 Pro iPhone 16 Pro Max What if I don't want to buy a new iPhone? If you want to continue using your older iPhone that isn't supported by iOS 26, that's fine. However, you'll miss out on security updates which could potentially put your phone at risk for malware and other threats. Additionally, some apps may stop working if they require a certain version of iOS or later. And of course, you won't be able to access the latest features iOS 26 offers. When will iOS 26 become available? Apple usually rolls out its latest iOS in mid-September, just a few days before the new iPhones hit store shelves. Last year, it released iOS 18 on Monday, Sept. 16. Expect a confirmation of the release date at the iPhone 17 event, expected in early September. iOS 26 features we're excited about Liquid Glass design : Your home screen is getting revamped with new app icons, including dark mode and all-clear options. You'll also notice buttons with a new floating design. Liquid Glass was designed to make all of Apple's OSes more cohesive. Phone app redesign: You'll finally be able to scroll through contacts, recent calls and voicemail messages all on one screen. It also comes with a new feature called Hold Assist that'll notify you when an agent comes to the phone so you can avoid the elevator music. Live Translate: iOS 26 is bringing the ability to have a conversation via phone call or text message with someone who speaks another language. Live Translate will translate your conversation in real time. Polls feature: Coming to group messages in the Messages app, chat members will be able to create polls. This can help prevent the unwanted 30+ messages when it comes to deciding which restaurant you're meeting at this weekend. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/heres-a-list-of-all-compatible-iphones-that-can-download-the-apple-ios-26-beta-update-today-191854014.html?src=rss

Ask Engadget: What are my options when Windows 10 support ends on October 14?

Q : I'm hearing that Microsoft is pulling the plug on Windows 10 later this year. What does that mean for my current Windows 10 PC, and what are my options? A: Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, a little over 10 years after the operating system was released. While you can continue to use Windows 10 PCs after that date and it's understandable why, I gave it a glowing review at launch you'll no longer receive any customer support, security updates or any other sort of upgrades. Windows 10 will effectively become a zombie operating system, shuffling along until some sort of malware or massive security breach renders it far too insecure. (Think about it this way: Would you actually feel safe running Windows XP, a notoriously malware-prone OS that hasn't received a significant security update since 2019, today? I would hope not!) So what's a Windows 10 user to do? Let's consider your choices. The best option: Upgrade to Windows 11 For most users, the simplest way to move on from Windows 10 is to step up to Microsoft's new OS. Windows 11 is a free upgrade for Windows 10 users running the latest 22HS update and who also meet the minimum hardware specifications . Microsoft isn't asking for much just a 1 GHz dual-core 64-bit processor, 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage - but security requirements may be a problem for very old PCs. Those include the ability to launch in Secure Boot mode , as well as having a TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform 2.0) module. Windows 11 relies on the latter for biometric logins, BitLocker data encryption and other security features. If you don't have TPM 2.0, you'll be stuck with Windows 10 until you get a new PC. ) If that all sounds too complicated, Microsoft's PC Health Check app can also let you know if your system is ready for Windows 11. And if you've been bombarded by Windows 11 upgrade notifications over the past few years, that's also a not-so-subtle nudge that your PC is likely ready for the new OS. (There are various hacks that can let you install Windows 11 without TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, but theyre risky and could make your OS installation vulnerable. If you do choose to upgrade, you can expect a relatively painless process. Gone are the days when a Windows upgrade could easily wipe out your entire system. Assuming you've got enough hard drive space to hold the new OS, now the upgrade process is merely a matter of sitting back and watching your system reboot a few times. I'd still recommend backing up any essential data before upgrading, though, just in case you run into any issues. (Pairing a cloud-based Microsoft OneDrive backup with a local hard disk is a good belt and suspenders solution.) The pricey option: Buy a new PC If your system is too old to support Secure Boot mode and TPM 2.0, its probably just time for an upgrade. (Expert users can find workarounds on YouTube and elsewhere, but you need to be adventurous enough to handle the likes of Github downloads and security overrides.) Luckily, weve got a slew of buying guides to help you out. Be sure to check out our best laptop guide , which includes some tips on the best specs to seek out, as well as some of our favorite systems like the Dell 14 Premium and MacBook Air (because its also a good time to consider switching from Windows to Macs ). Our best Windows laptops guide also highlights systems like the ASUS ZenBook S14 and the Surface Pro Copilot+ tablet . While the sweetspot for new PCs tends to be in the $750 to $1,200 range, with current back-to-school promos, you can find very capable laptops and desktops for as low as $500, and occasionally less. But if you're looking for something higher end ($1,400 and up), our best gaming laptop guide would be helpful. The risky option: Keep on trucking with Windows 10 Windows 10 won't self-destruct when its support ends, so you could conceivably just use your older PC until it dies. But that's a risky option since you won't be getting any security updates. All it takes is for one intrepid hacker to find a new security flaw and you could easily fall victim to any number of issues. That includes getting malware, which could slow down performance and leak your data to hackers, or falling victim to a ransomware data theft scheme. And every day past October 14 just raises the likelihood of OS-level vulnerabilities that third-party antivirus software would be ill-equipped to fight off. Trust me you don't want to do this. At the very least, buy yourself another year to figure things out The procrastinator option: Pay to extend Windows 10's security updates If your hardware can't support the move to Windows 11, you can at least hit the snooze button while you figure things out. For a one-time payment of $30 (or 1,000 Microsoft reward points ), you can subscribe to the Windows 10 extended security update (ESU). As its name implies, the ESU will get you Windows 10 security updates, bug fixes and technical support until October 13, 2026. Sure, it's only a year of additional support, but that can at least buy you enough time to do more research on a new PC, or wait for a holiday sale. For what it's worth, this marks the first time Microsoft has offered any sort of ESU to consumers. Typically, they're just a way for corporate IT admins to get additional support without migrating to a new OS. Have a tech question youd like Engadget to answer? As tech reporters, the Engadget staff is always answering questions from friends and family about electronics, software, gaming, big tech policies and more. So we decided to write down our answers. This question is a composite of ones weve been asked recently. If youve got a tech-related question youd like us to answer for you, please email ask@engadget.com. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/ask-engadget-what-are-my-options-when-windows-10-support-ends-on-october-14-160534495.html?src=rss

The best live TV streaming services to cut cable in 2025

We still think getting a live TV streaming service is a better deal than paying for cable but the gulf between the two options is narrowing. Now that many of the major providers go for more than $80 per month, its not the amazing deal it once was. Still, live TV streaming plans have no contract, offer relatively simpler pricing and need no special equipment beyond a smart TV or streaming device and an internet connection. After testing all the major players, we found YouTube TV to be the most well-rounded. But other services have their advantages, too, and there are plenty of free services as well. Here are the best live TV streaming services we tested, along with our advice on how to stream and what to look for. Editors note : Three announcements from the past week will change the streaming landscape. ESPN and Fox will each launch its own standalone streaming service on August 21. The former will go for $30 monthly and include all of ESPNs linear networks as well as ESPN+. A Select plan will go for $12 monthly and content from the streaming service ESPN+. Current subscribers to that service will automatically be rolled into the Select tier. Fox One will go for $20 per month and feature live and on-demand content from Fox News, Fox Business, Fox Sports, Fox Weather and more. The separate services are arriving a few months after the cancellation of a joint streaming venture between Fox, Warner Bros. and Disney (owners of ESPN) called Venu. Speaking of Disney, it has also announced that it will combine the on-demand streaming service Hulu with Disney+ in 2026 . The company confirmed to Variety that Hulu+ Live TV will also be rolled into Disney+ at some point next year. Table of contents Best live TV streaming services for 2025 Best free live TV streaming services for 2025 What to look for in a live TV streaming service How we tested Live TV Streaming FAQs Recent updates Best live TV streaming services for 2025 Back to top Best free live TV streaming services for 2025 There are plenty of ways to get free TV these days. To start, many standard streaming apps have added live components to their lineups. Youre paying for the service, so its not technically free, but you can get a dose of live TV without spending more than necessary. Peacock includes some regional NBC stations, and notably access to the 2024 Summer Olympic Games . Paramount+ subscribers can watch on-air CBS programming. The standard Hulu app has a live ABC news channel and Max now includes a live CNN outlet with its service, along with cable-like linear channels . The smart TV operating system (OS) you use likely provides free live content too: Amazons Fire TV interface has a live tab and Rokus built-in Roku Channel includes hundreds of live channels at no extra cost. The same goes for Samsung TV Plus , which added a trove of K-dramas to its free live and on-demand lineup in 2024. The PBS app offers local live streams of its channels even NASA has a free streaming service with live coverage. But for a full suite of live TV networks, and dont want to sign up for any paid service, there are a number of free ad-supported TV services that have live TV. Even cable company DirecTV has joined the crowd with MyFree , and Fubo Free lets customers with a lapsed subscription keep watching some content. Here's the best of the live TV streaming services we tried: Back to top What to look for in a live TV streaming service How to stream live TV Streaming live TV is a lot like using Netflix. You get access through apps on your phone, tablet, smart TV or streaming device and the signal arrives over the internet. A faster and more stable connection tends to give you a better experience. Most live TV apps require you to sign up and pay via a web browser. After that, you can activate the app on all of your devices. Monthly Price When I started testing these cord-cutting alternatives, I was struck by the price difference between live TV and a standard video streaming app . Where the latter cost between $5 and $20 per month, most live TV services hit the $80 mark and can go higher than $200 with additional perks, channel packages and premium extras. The higher starting price is mostly due to the cost of providing multiple networks particularly sports and local stations. And, in the past year or so, every service except Sling has raised base plan prices. Local channels Only two of the services I tried dont include full local channel coverage for subscribers and one of those makes no effort to carry sports at all. That would be Philo and, as you might guess, its the cheapest. The next most affordable option, Sling, only carries three local stations and only in larger markets but it still manages to include some of the top sports channels. When you sign up with any provider that handles local TV, youll enter your zip code, ensuring you get your areas broadcast affiliates for ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC. Of course, you can also get those stations for free. Nearly all modern television sets support a radio frequency (RF) connection, also known as the coaxial port, which means if you buy an HD antenna , youll receive locally broadcast stations like ABC, CBS, PBS, FOX and NBC. And since the signal is digital, reception is much improved over the staticky rabbit-ears era. But local channel access is another area where traditional streaming services, like Netflix, are bleeding into broadcast territory. For example, you can watch your local NBC station with a Peacock subscription and you can tune into your areas CBS station through your Paramount+ subscription. Netflix is even getting into the mix with a recently announced deal with one of Frances broadcast companies, TF1. The streaming service will now air TF1's live TV channels and on-demand content inside the Netflix app. No word if the concept will expand to other regions, but its an interesting move to anyone interested in the future of streaming. Live sports coverage One reality that spun my head was the sheer number and iterations of sports networks in existence. Trying to figure out which network will carry the match-up you want to see can be tricky. I found that Google makes it a little easier for sports fans by listing out upcoming games (just swap in NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL and so on in the search bar). When you click an event, the TV & streaming button will tell you which network is covering it. That just leaves figuring out if your chosen service carries the RSNs (regional sports networks) you want. Unfortunately, even with add-ons and extra packages, some providers simply dont have certain channels in their lineups. It would take a lawyer to understand the ins and outs of streaming rights negotiations , and networks leave and return to live TV carriers all the time. That said, most major sporting events in the US are covered by ESPN, Fox Sports, TNT, USA and local affiliates. I should also point out that traditional streaming services have started adding live sports to their lineups. Peacock carries live Premier League matches, Sunday Night Football games and aired the 2024 Olympic Games from Paris. Thursday Night Football as well as NBA and WNBA games are on Amazon Prime and Christmas Day Football aired on Netflix. Max ( formerly HBO Max) now airs select, regular season games from the NHL, MLB, NCAA and NBA with a $10-per-month add-on . You can watch MLS games with an add-on through the Apple TV app, and Apple TV+ includes some MLB games . Roku users can watch the just-added free sports channel and those who subscribe to Paramount Plus can see many of the matches aired on CBS Sports, including live NFL games. This year, even the Super Bowl was live-streamed for free on Tubi . While all of these alternatives may not cover as much ground as live TV streamers, they could end up being cheaper avenues to the sports you want. And if sports is all youre after, there are sports-only plans that are a touch cheaper, too. The promised sports streaming service from ESPN, Fox and Warner Bros. called Venu was cancelled early this year. But in May, ESPN confirmed it will launch its own streaming service that will include all ESPN channels , though a start date hasnt been confirmed. DirecTV recently announced a $70-per-month, sports-only streaming package called MySports and Comcast now has a sports and news bundle for the same price (as long as you're an Xfinity customer with auto-pay, otherwise it's more expensive). Traditional cable networks Dozens of linear programming networks were once only available with cable TV, like Bravo, BET, Food Network, HGTV, CNN, Lifetime, SYFY and MTV. If you only subscribe to, say, Netflix or Apple TV+, you wont have access to those. But as with sports, standard streamers are starting to incorporate this content into their offerings. After the Warner Bros. merger, Max incorporated some content from HGTV, Discovery and TLC. Peacock has Bravo and Hallmark shows, and Paramount+ has material from Nickelodeon, MTV and Comedy Central. Other channels like AMC+ have stand-alone apps. The Discovery+ app gives you 15 channels ad-free for $9 per month (or with ads for $5 monthly). And a service called Frndly TV starts at a mere $7 per month and streams A&E, Lifetime, Game Show Network, Outdoor Channel and about 35 others. Of course, most live TV streaming options will deliver more sizable lists of cable networks, but just note that you may already be paying for some of them and if all you need is a certain channel, you could get it cheaper by subscribing directly. On-demand streaming Most live TV subscriptions include access to a selection of video-on-demand (VOD) content, like you would get with a traditional streaming service. Much of this content is made up of the movies and TV series that have recently aired on your subscribed networks. This typically doesnt cover live events and news programming, but I was able to watch specific episodes of ongoing shows like Top Chef or BETs Diarra from Detroit. Just search the on-demand library for the program, pick an episode and hit play. Partnerships, like Hulus relationship with Disney, and add-ons, such as bundling Max with your YouTube TV subscription or Starz with your Sling plan, will let you watch even larger libraries of on-demand content. But again, if VOD is all youre after, paying for those networks directly instead of through a live TV plan will be far cheaper. Digital video recordings (DVR) limits Every option I tried offers some cloud DVR storage without needing a separate physical device. Youll either get unlimited storage for recordings that expires after nine months or a year, or youll get a set number of hours (between 50 and 1,000) that you can keep indefinitely. Typically, all you need to do is designate what ongoing TV series you want to record and the DVR component will do all the hard work of saving subsequent episodes for you to watch later. You can do the same thing with sports events. Aside from being able to watch whenever its most convenient, you can also fast-forward through commercials in recorded content. In contrast, you cant skip them on live TV or VOD. Simultaneous streams and profiles per account Each plan gives you a certain number of simultaneous streams, aka how many screens can play content at the same time. And while most providers will let you travel with your subscription, there are usually location restrictions that require you to sign in from your home IP address periodically. Stream allowances range from one at a time to unlimited screens (or as many as your ISPs bandwidth can handle). Some plans require add-ons to get more screens. Most services also let you set up a few profiles so I was able to give different people in my family the ability to build their own watch histories and libraries, set their favorite channels and get individual recommendations. Picture-in-picture mode and multiview Picture-in-picture (PiP) usually refers to shrinking a video window on a mobile device or computer browser so you can watch it while using other apps. Sling, YouTube TV, FuboTV, Philo, DirecTV Stream and Hulu + Live TV all have PiP modes on computers and mobile devices. Another feature, multiview, lets you view multiple live sports games at once on your TV screen. YouTube TV and FuboTV are the only live TV streamers that let you do this. With YouTube TV, you can select up to four views from a few preset selection of streams. FuboTV offers the same feature, but only if you're using an Apple TV or Roku streaming device. 4K live streams Right now, just FuboTV, YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream offer 4K live streams but with caveats. YouTube TV requires a $20-per-month add-on , after which youll only be able to watch certain live content in 4K. DirecTV Stream has three channels that show live 4K content one with shows and original series, and two with occasional sporting events. You dont have to pay extra for these but you do need to have either DirecTVs Gemini receiver, or a device from Fire TV, Apple TV or Roku. Youll need those same streaming devices to watch the select 4K programming on Sling as well. FuboTV shows certain live events in 4K but access is limited to the Elite and Premier packages, not the base-level Pro plan. Of course, watching any 4K content also requires equipment that can handle it: a 4K smart TV or 4K streaming device paired with a cord and screen that can handle 4K resolution. Tiers, packages and add-ons Comparing price-to-offering ratios is a task for a spreadsheet. I made three. The base plans range from $28 to $85 per month. From there, you can add packages, which are usually groups of live TV channels bundled by themes like news, sports, entertainment or international content. Premium VOD extras like Max, AMC+ and Starz are also available. Add-ons cost an extra $5 to $20 each per month and simply show up in the guide where you find the rest of your live TV. This is where streaming can quickly get expensive, pushing an $80 subscription to $200 monthly, depending on what you choose. How to stream live TV for free I also downloaded and tried out a few apps that offer free ad-supported TV ( FAST ) including Freevee , Tubi , PlutoTV and Sling Freestream . These let you drop in and watch a more limited selection of live networks at zero cost. Most dont even require an email address, let alone a credit card. And if you have a Roku device, an Amazon Fire TV or Stick, a Samsung TV, a Chromecast device or a Google TV, you already have access to hundreds of live channels via the Roku Channel , the live tab in Fire TV, through the Samsung TV Plus app or through Google TV . Back to top How we tested When I begin testing for a guide, I research the most popular and well-reviewed players in the category and narrow down which are worth trying. For the paid plans, just six services dominate so I tried them all. There are considerably more free live TV contenders so I tested the four most popular. After getting accounts set up using my laptop, I downloaded the apps on a Samsung smart TV running the latest version of Tizen OS. I counted the local stations and regional sports coverage, and noted how many of the top cable networks were available. I then weighed the prices, base packages and available add-ons. I then looked at how the programming was organized in each apps UI and judged how easy everything was to navigate, from the top navigation to the settings. To test the search function, I searched for the same few TV shows on BET, Food Network, HGTV and Comedy Central, since all six providers carry those channels. I noted how helpful the searches were and how quickly they got me to season 6, episode 13 of Home Town . I used DVR to record entire series and single movies and watched VOD shows, making sure to test the pause and scan functions. On each service with sports, I searched for the same four upcoming NHL, NBA, MLS and NCAA basketball matches and used the record option to save the games and play them back a day or two later. Finally, I noted any extra perks or irritating quirks. All live TV streaming services weve tested: Philo Sling YouTube TV Hulu + Live TV DirecTV Stream FuboTV Freevee Tubi PlutoTV Sling Freestream Plex Back to top Live TV Streaming FAQs What is live streaming? Streaming simply refers to video content that is delivered to your screen over the internet. Live streaming can be split into two categories: linear programming and simultaneous transmission. That first one is similar to what you get with cable or broadcast TV, with channels that play a constant flow of movies and shows (sort of what TV looked like before Netflix). Simultaneous streaming lets you watch live events (like a basketball game) or a program (like the evening news) as they happen. What is the difference between streaming and live streaming? Standard streaming, the most popular example being Netflix, lets you pick what you want to watch from a menu of choices. Its also referred to as video on demand. Live streaming refers to sports and news events that you can stream as they happen in real time. It also refers to channels that show a continuous, linear flow of programming. What streaming service is best for live TV? FuboTV does the best job of letting you organize live channels to help you find just what you want to watch. The interface is uncluttered and when you search for something, the UI clearly tells you whether something is live now or on-demand. YouTube TV also does a good job making that info clear. Both have just over 100 live channels on offer. What is the most cost effective TV streaming service? Free TV streaming services like PlutoTV, Plex, Tubi and FreeVee show plenty of ad-supported TV shows and movies without charging you anything. Of course, they wont have the same channels or content that more premium subscriptions have. Ultimately it depends on what you want to watch and finding the service that can supply that to you in the most streamlined form so youre not paying for stuff you dont need. Is it cheaper to have cable or streaming? A basic cable package used to be more expensive than the base-level live TV streaming service. But now that nearly all major providers have raised their prices to over $75 per month, thats no longer the case. And with add-ons and other premiums, you can easily pay over $200 a month for either cable or a live TV streaming service. What streaming service has all the TV channels? No service that we tested had every available channel. Hulu + Live TV and DirecTV Stream carry the the highest number of the top rated channels, according to Neilsen . Hulus service also gets you Disney+ fare, which you cant get elsewhere. FuboTV has the most sports channels and YouTube TV gives you the widest selection of add-ons. What is the most popular live TV streaming platform? YouTube TV has the most paying customers. According to 2024's letter from the CEO, the service has over eight million subscribers. Disneys 2024 third quarter earnings put the Hulu + Live TV viewer count at 4.6 million. Slings customer count dipped from two million to about 1.9 million in 2024 and FuboTV grew its subscriber list to 1.6 million . How safe are free streaming services and websites? You may have heard certain sites that provide free content can be dangerous, leading to stolen info and/or exposing you to malware. Thats likely in reference to certain peer-to-peer (P2P) networks and file-sharing sites that let people download free movies and series which can come bundled with malicious code. But if youre talking about the free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) services listed here, from providers like PlutoTV, Tubi and Freevee, they are just as safe as any other streaming service. Since you sometimes dont even have to provide your email address or credit card info, they can even be more anonymous than apps that require login credentials. Back to top Recent updates January 31, 2025 : Added information about which streaming service would live-stream the Super Bowl, including Tubis free option. Updated Fubos pricing. Added details about DirectTV Streams sports-only package and Comcasts sports and news bundle. January 16, 2025 : Included higher prices for Slings Orange and Blue plans. Noted the demise of the never-launched Venu sports streaming service and mentioned the inclusion of DirecTVs new sports package. December 31, 2024 : Noted increased pricing for YouTube TV, Hulu+ Live TV and DirecTV. Updated information for 4K streaming capabilities and requirements for multiple services. Reported on the upcoming shut down of Amazons Freevee service and the addition of DirecTVs free service. August 6, 2024 : Updated with the addition of Plex as a free live TV streaming recommendation and mentioned the additional free channels Philo is now including with the free version of its service. Added pricing information for ESPN's new sports-only streaming service, Venu. June 12, 2024 : Updated with more information about 4K live streaming, picture-in-picture and multiview modes, as well as video on-demand options. We expanded our recommendations around free live TV streaming services and added a FAQ query about the safety of free streaming services and clarified the difference between standard and live streaming. More traditional streaming services have added live and sports components, so we revised that section accordingly. Back to top This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/best-live-tv-streaming-service-133000410.html?src=rss

Isha Talwar slams Shanoo Sharma for asking her to cry in a busy restaurant

Actor Isha Talwar recalled a decade-old incident where casting director Shanoo Sharma asked her to perform a crying scene in the middle of a busy restaurant in Mumbai, with diners nearby

Isha Talwar slams casting director Shanoo Sharma for shattering her confidence during audition: Never got the role

Isha Talwar revealed an uncomfortable audition experience early in her career. Shanoo Sharma from Yash Raj Films asked her to cry in a public restaurant. Isha refused, prioritizing her self-respect. She did not get the role. Despite this, Isha built a successful career. Shanoo Sharma is known for discovering talents like Ranveer Singh and Anushka Sharma.

Germany suspends military exports to Israel for use in Gaza war

Berlin: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Friday said his country will not authorise any exports of military equipment that could be used in Gaza until further notice. Germany has been a stalwart supporter of Israel for decades. In a statement, Merz emphasised that Israel has the right to defend itself against Hamas terror and said Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Tracing changes on canvases at Tangerine in Chennai

In Tangerine at Alwarpet, the clinks of cutlery, the fizzle of sizzlers, and ever-growing loud laughter from the diners play as the background score for the chefs who are at work. But also breaking away from this rhythm, the customers engage in conversations on moments frozen and framed on the walls. The walls here are far from the white walls of conventional galleries as the restaurant, for over 15 years, has provided a platform for artists to showcase their work. This time, it is Transitions, the latest solo show by artist Isaiarasi Annamalai. The small-format artworks focus on exploring the complex intersection between humanity and materiality. Humanity is rooted in compassion, empathy, spiritual fulfilment, and a sense of community; whereas the pursuit of wealth, possessions, status, and consumerism drives the materialistic world. My intention is to create a dynamic tension between these two worlds where contrasting elements coexist, interact, and challenge each other, offering the viewer a visually compelling experience, says the artist. Subtle but stirring At the centre of the show lies a recurring duality between the sacred and the sterile, the rooted and the removed, the handmade and the high-rise. In one painting, Ive depicted the transition of human living spaces from homes filled with emotional value to lifeless commercial buildings, she says, adding that the painting reflects how the sense of belonging and memory tied to a place is slowly replaced by functionality and profit, turning once-loved homes into stationary structures. In another canvas, Isaiarasi shows how the God-given beauty of nature has been altered by humankind due to evolution and development. In all my works, the golden foil represents divine creation a symbol of what is pure, sacred, and untouched. Through this contrast [in the artwork], I try to highlight what we are slowly losing, adds the artist. Throughout her paintings, Isaiarasi employs a subtle yet deliberate visual language. The subtle horizon lines serve as metaphors for transitional moments a boundary where one state fades into another, representing change, movement, and inner evolution. Isaiarasi adds, The serene, contemplative atmosphere in my works encourage introspection, inviting viewers to reflect on their own journeys of transformation. Thoughts on transitions In an attempt to express these ideas, the artist also aims to evoke themes of growth, transition, and emotional evolution. My art is a space for others to connect with something deeper, something beyond the material surface of life. Ultimately, I hope my work resonates with those who are seeking meaning beyond what can be seen or owned, she states. On the consuming and interpreting end, Isaiarasi shares, Many times, viewers have found unexpected meanings in my work. Its made me reflect on how differently people perceive the same concept. It could also be because her canvases have a particular intimacy heightened by their scale and setting. Large works might feel overwhelming. Hence, the intimate scale of these pieces fits perfectly at Tangerine. I wanted the artwork to complement the ambience, not overpower it. The director of Tangerine, Arun Rao, has provided incredible support to arts. His dedication to promoting creativity and culture is helping the art community. Her own artistic evolution has been shaped by those shifting lenses. In my early stages, I was drawn to works exploring inner connections. Over time, my focus matured towards more socially oriented subjects, she adds. Now, what emerges is a layered approach rooted in her own life, but in conversation with the world around her. Isaiarasi says, This series was shaped by observing the transitions in my own life and others, especially the blessings and changes that feel like theyre guided by something bigger and divine. For now, Transitions invites contemplation of the subtle shifts in our environment, lifestyles, and values that often go unnoticed. Transitions is on display till August 15, beween 12 pm-3.30 pm and 7 pm-10.30 pm

Punjab village's 40-year train delay: The Rs 2,000 crore question. When will the train to Talwara arrive?

Nearly four decades after it was first cleared, the Nangal DamTalwara railway line remains incomplete. The 2,000 crore project has made slow progress, with only 87 percent of the work done. Locals in Punjabs Talwara region have grown old waiting for a train that has yet to arrive. Land disputes, forest clearance delays, and compensation concerns continue to stall final construction. Despite a renewed push from Prime Minister Modi, villagers remain wary of yet another missed deadline.

'Indias longest-pending rail project': Train to this Punjab village delayed by 40 years; Rs 2,000 crore project limps at 87% completion

The nearly four-decade-long Nangal Dam-Talwara railway project, sanctioned in 1981, faces further delays due to land acquisition and environmental clearances in Punjab. Despite 87% completion and Prime Minister Modi's intervention, a critical stretch near Talwara remains a hurdle. Locals express dissatisfaction over compensation, while officials aim for a December 2027 completion.

Khandu mourns death of Soren

ITANAGAR, Aug 4: Condoling the death of former Jharkhand CM Shibu Soren, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu said he was a stalwart of tribal rights. Soren, the founder of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), died on Monday morning at the age of 81 while undergoing treatment for kidney-related ailments at a hospital in Delhi. []

Environmental activists gather at Jantar Mantar to demand cancellation of STR rationalisation plan

NEW DELHI: Eminent environmental activists from across the country gathered at Jantar Mantar to demand the cancellation of the Sariska Tiger Reserve (STR) rationalisation plan, which could potentially reopen more than 50 mines that were previously closed by a Supreme Court order in May 2024. People from Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan appealed to the Chief Justice of India and the Union Minister of Environment to intervene and cancel the rationalisation plan for STR to protect Indias national animal. On June 26 meeting, Indias top wildlife body approved a proposal to redraw the boundaries of the Critical Tiger Habitat (CTH) of the STR in Rajasthan. It involved the exclusion of about 48.5 sq km area, primarily from the southern and south-western parts of the Sariska CTH. In compensation, the state will designate around 91 sq km as quality tiger habitat, mostly in the STRs north. As a result, the CTH area will increase from 881.11 sq km to about 924 sq km, while the buffer zone shrinks from 245.72 sq km to 203.2 sq km. The protesters called for the immediate revocation of the National Board for Wildlife's approval for the boundary changes in the STR. Sariska boundary rationalisation: A recipe for conservation disaster? They also demanded full transparency in all Environmental Impact Assessments and public hearings related to mining in and around protected areas, as well as recognition of local community rights and their involvement in conservation decisions. Akhil Chandra, a former director of the World Wildlife Fund, expressed shock that both the National Board for Wildlife and the National Tiger Conservation Authority approved the plan to redraw the boundaries of Sariska's Critical Tiger Habitat, which would allow previously shut mining operations within a one-kilometre radius of the reserve's boundary. He stated, Allowing mining in an eco-sensitive zone such as Sariska can have serious long-term harmful impacts on its flora and fauna. Sneha Solanki from the Tiger Trails Trust in Alwar highlighted the threat posed to the Aravalli hills and surrounding forests, referencing a 2018 report by the Supreme Court-appointed Central Empowered Committee. This report indicated that 31 hills in the Alwar district had disappeared over time. The Supreme Court-appointed Central Empowered Committee revealed in 2018 that out of the 128 hills sampled in Alwar district, 31 hills have vanished since the Survey of India topographic sheets were prepared in 1967, Solanki stated. She added, This move to redraw the boundaries of Sariska is unacceptable to the citizens of Alwar district, as it will end up rewarding violators of the law and set a dangerous precedent for allowing similar illegalities in other protected areas across India.

Shah Rukh Khan thanks Kamal Haasan, Mohanlal, Juhi Chawla for their wishes after his first-ever National Award win

Shah Rukh Khan, who won the National Film Award for his movie Jawaan, receives heartfelt wishes from industry stalwarts such as Mohanlal, Kamal Haasan and Juhi Chawla

Mukul signals end of road for TMC in Mlaya

SHILLONG, Aug 3: The Trinamool Congress (TMC) which made a grand entry in Meghalaya in November 2021 by roping in twelve sitting MLAs, including the likes of Mukul Sangma and Charles Pyngrope, is now staring at a dead end with no plans of its revival in the state. Leader of Opposition and TMC stalwart Mukul [] The post Mukul signals end of road for TMC in Mlaya appeared first on The Shillong Times .

Mukul slams GHADC over alleged misuse of Rs 100-cr central funds

Fund misuse derailed fiscal future of all councils in state By Our Reporter SHILLONG, Aug 2: Leader of Opposition and TMC stalwart Mukul M Sangma has come down heavily on the NPP-led Executive Committee in the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) over alleged misappropriation of Rs 100.71 crore from the Centres first-ever special assistance [] The post Mukul slams GHADC over alleged misuse of Rs 100-cr central funds appeared first on The Shillong Times .

All about Turla, the elusive Russian spy group hacking diplomats computers

Turla, a sophisticated Russian cyber espionage unit linked to the FSB, is targeting foreign diplomats and embassies through compromised Moscow-based ISPs. This long-standing group, also known as Venomous Bear, employs advanced techniques like spear-phishing, living-off-the-land tactics, and unique malware such as KRYPTON for data theft from air-gapped systems.

Prakash Hinduja On The Science Behind Water Revival In Alwar

Their goal is to build a water-literate society where people understand the risks and solutions clearly.

Jodhpur police cremated Muslim youth despite missing report, family learns truth after DNA test

JAIPUR: Jodhpur police are facing backlash for allegedly cremating, instead of burying, the body of a 20-year-old Muslim youth, Ismail, despite a missing persons report being filed days earlier. The body, found in Gulab Sagar, was labelled unclaimed and cremated, a violation of Islamic burial practices. It was only after a DNA test that the body was confirmed to be Ismails, leaving the family devastated and angry. Ismail, who lived in Chimanpura Gali-4, went missing on 17 June. His family reported his disappearance to the Sadar Bazar police station on 20 June. Just a day later, on 21 June, the body of a young man was recovered from Gulab Sagar and placed in the mortuary at Mahatma Gandhi Hospital, falling under the jurisdiction of the nearby Sadar Kotwali police station. Despite the fact that Sadar Bazar and Sadar Kotwali police stations operate from the same premises, they allegedly failed to coordinate. On 25 June, the Sadar Kotwali police treated the body as unidentified and cremated it. It was not until 26 June that Ismails sister-in-law came across visuals and information about the body recovered from the reservoir. Suspicious that it could be her missing relative, she informed the family. They contacted the Sojati Gate police and demanded verification. A DNA test was ordered. The following day, on 27 June, Ismails mother, Malka, provided a blood sample. The results from the Forensic Science Laboratory later confirmed that the cremated body was indeed Ismail's. On receiving the confirmation, Malka broke down, grieving not only her sons death but also the denial of religious burial rites. She accused the police of both carelessness and deep insensitivity. He should have been buried, not cremated, she said, struggling to hold back tears. Assistant Sub-Inspector Nemichand from Sadar Bazar police station acknowledged that the body was badly decomposed when found, making identification difficult. It was considered unclaimed at the time. After we were informed of the missing report, we proceeded with DNA testing, he said. This is not the first time such a mistake has allegedly occurred in Rajasthan. A similar incident was reported in 2019 in Bhiwadi, Alwar, where police cremated the body of a Muslim youth before confirming his identity. That event had triggered protests by the Meo community, with community leader Sher Mohammad accusing the police of serious insensitivity. The latest Jodhpur incident has reignited concerns about police protocol in handling unidentified bodies. It has raised questions about accountability, coordination between departments, and the respect of religious practices, especially when families have already reported someone missing. The case has drawn strong reactions from locals, who are demanding clear procedures and strict action to prevent such incidents from recurring.

Schools shut as heavy rains lash Rajasthan, 30 districts on alert

JAIPUR: Rajasthan continues to reel under intense monsoon activity as heavy rains batter multiple regions, prompting widespread disruption and precautionary measures. Jaipur saw heavy showers since morning, causing waterlogging in several parts of the city. Notably, areas around government residences, including those of Chief Secretary Sudhansh Pant and DGP Rajeev Sharma, were flooded. The Hadoti region was badly hit, with connectivity also severely disrupted. In Kota and surrounding Hadoti region, the spell of rain persisted on Tuesday as well, filling up dams, anicuts, and ponds. Waterfalls have begun flowing from the surrounding hills, and low-lying areas are flooded. Many rural roads are submerged, causing significant traffic disruptions, and standing crops are beginning to rot in waterlogged fields. Kota city recorded 15 mm of rainfall in the past 24 hours, with intermittent rain continuing through the day after a wet night. In Tonk and Sawai Madhopur, several areas are submerged. Rajasthans connectivity with Madhya Pradesh has been severely affected: Parvati river overflowed in Etawah (Kota), flooding a new bridge on the Etawah-Khatoli road. As a result, State Highway-70 (KotaGwaliorSheopur) is closed to traffic. Augaad culvert on NH-552 in Bodal, about 12 km from Sawai Madhopur, was washed away, severing the Sawai MadhopurSheopur (MP) route. In Sawai Madhopur, houses are filled with water up to five feet, and railway tracks are submerged, affecting train services. Morel Dam overflows again The Morel Dam in Lalsot (Dausa), considered Asias largest kachha (earthen) dam, has overflowed with water reaching 1.5 feet above its crest. This is the second consecutive year the dam has reached capacity. The situation is being closely monitored by local authorities. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange and Yellow alert for several districts, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next three days, particularly on Wednesday and Thursday. According to the forecast, 18 districts in Jaipur, Ajmer, and Bharatpur divisions are expected to witness heavy rainfall in the next 48 hours. Some parts of the Bikaner division may also receive moderate to heavy showers. School holidays announced in several districts In light of the continuing downpour and the expected intensity of rain, local administrations have declared school and Anganwadi closures in several districts as a precautionary measure: Jaisalmer: Over 1650 schools closed till 31st July. Baran: Schools closed till August 2 Kota: Till August 1 Ajmer and Udaipur: July 30 and 31 Bhilwara: Closed on Wednesday Authorities have urged residents to remain alert, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow advisories, as life and property could be affected due to waterlogging, flooding, and road damage. Rainfall alerts 30 July Alerts: Orange Alert: Ajmer, Alwar, Dausa, Jaipur, Karauli, Sawai Madhopur, Tonk Yellow Alert: Bharatpur, Bhilwara, Bundi, Chittorgarh, Dholpur, Jhunjhunu, Rajsamand, Sikar, Sirohi, Udaipur, Bikaner, Hanumangarh, Churu, Jodhpur, Nagaur, Pali, Sri Ganganagar 31 July Alerts: Orange Alert: Ajmer, Tonk Yellow Alert: Bhilwara, Bundi, Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Sikar, Bikaner, Churu, Nagaur, Pali, Sri Ganganagar

Boycott or play? India-Pakistan WCL 2025 semi-final under cloud after top sponsor withdraws

This firm stance follows the cancellation of the two teams' group stage encounter earlier in the tournament, where several Indian players, including stalwarts like Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina, had refused to participate.

Kerala Kalamandalam marks 60 years of Kutiyattam legacy with global festival

CHERUTHURUTHY/THRISSUR: Sixty years ago, a quiet cultural revolution unfolded in the heart of Kerala. In 1965, Kerala Kalamandalam etched its name in the annals of art history by becoming the first public institution to introduce Koothu and Kutiyattamthe worlds oldest surviving Sanskrit theatre tradition, as academic disciplines. This landmark decision, under the stewardship of legendary maestro Guru Painkulam Ramachakyar, would go on to rescue an ancient ritual art from the fading shadows of obscurity. Now, in 2025, Kerala Kalamandalam is set to mark this extraordinary legacy with a grand celebration - the International Festival of Kutiyattam (IFK-2025). The five-day global gathering that began on Tuesday (from July 29 to August 2), promises to be both a tribute and a forward-looking exploration of an art form that continues to evolve. Kutiyattam, once performed in temple theatres for select audiences, is a complex blend of classical Sanskrit drama, stylised gestures (mudras), facial expressions (rasas), and musical accompaniment. Passed down through generations of Chakyars and Nangiars, the form teetered on the edge of extinction by the mid-20th century. Enter Guru Painkulam Ramachakyar - an artist and reformer - who, through Kerala Kalamandalam, opened the art to institutional training, public performance, and academic inquiry. His vision democratised Kutiyattam, balancing its sacred depth with contemporary relevance. Today, his legacy lives on not only through his disciples but also through a new wave of practitioners, scholars, and cultural custodians. Themed Kutiyattam: Past, Present & Future, the International Festival of Kutiyattam will feature daily performances by some of the most respected names in the field. Among the star performers are Padma Shri Kalamandalam Sivan Namboodiri, Ammannur Kuttan Chakyar, Kalamandalam Rama Chakyar, Kalamandalam Girija, Kalamandalam Eswaranunni, Usha Nangiar, and Kapila - each a stalwart who has contributed to Kutiyattams artistic refinement and international acclaim. Scholarly sessions will complement the performances, fostering debate, dialogue, and demonstration. More than a heritage performance, Kutiyattam is today a living, breathing tradition that continues to engage new audiences.

IND vs WI, WCL LIVE: Pollard Left To Fight Alone For 8-Down WI; Gayle, Bravo Flop

India Champions vs WI Champions LIVE Score, India Legends vs West Indies, WCL 2025: WI stalwarts Chris Gayle and Dwayne Bravo have disappointed with the bat.

RRBMU UG, PG results 2025: Raj Rishi Bhartrihari Matsya University releases BA 1st year result at rrbmuniv.ac.in

RRBMU result 2025: Raj Rishi Bhartrihari Matsya University (RRBMU), Alwar has announced the BA 1st Year Result 2025. Students can check their results on the official website www.rrbmuniv.ac.in or directly at www.univindia.org/ALWARUNIV/maINpanel.php. The university had earlier declared results for various postgraduate courses on July 28, 2025. The online marksheet is provisionally available for download, and original copies will be issued later. Students are advised to verify all details and report any discrepancies to university authorities.

10-month-old infant orphaned during Himachal flash floods declared 'child of state'

CHANDIGARH: 10-month-old infant Neetika who lost her parents in flash floods in Himachal's Mandi district has been declared a child of the state under the Chief Minister Sukh-Aashray Yojana of the Himachal Pradesh Government. Authorities have pledged to support her education and upbringing. Neetika's mother Radha Devi (24) and grandmother Purnu Devi (59) are still missing while her father Ramesh (31) was found dead after a cloudburst struck Talwara village in Chachyot Tehsilof Mandi district on the intervening night of June 30 and July 1. The infant was found alone in the house by their neighbor Prem Singh, who informed her relative Balwant, a personal security officer for former chief minister and Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur. The infant is currently living with her aunt Kirna Devi, the younger sister of her deceased father, in Shikauri village, about 20 km away from Talwara village. Following 'Shudi' rituals on the 13th day of the familys death, relatives decided that the child will be raised by her aunt. On that fateful night, Ramesh had stepped out of the house to divert the flow of water entering the house, while his wife and mother followed to help but they did not return. Many people had come forward to help the infant and thus two bank accounts were opened in her name in the Himachal Co-operative Bank and Punjab National Bank. Sources said that the money deposited in these accounts will be reserved for her education and she can access it when she turns 18 year old. Additionally, the child has also been offered admission in Sainik School after Class VI. Himachal Pradesh Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi said that the state government has taken full responsibility of the infants education and future as part of a long-term plan. Whatever this girl wants to become in the future, a doctor, an engineer or an officer, the government will bear all expenses, he said. Sources said that benefits are given to the orphans (children of the state) under the Sukh-Ashray scheme launched by the state government in 2023. The scheme provides food, shelter, clothing, higher education and skill development to unmarried orphans between 18 and 27 years of age who are unhoused and are unemployed. The children get clothing and festival allowance, inter or intra-state annual exposure visits, stipend to meet personal expenses while pursuing higher education, vocational training or skill development, funds for startup and grants for building a house. A senior official said that following the directions of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu the children who lost either their parents during the natural disaster are being ensured the benefits of the welfare schemes. Thus under Sukh-Aashray Yojana, Neetika will get Rs 4,000 per month from the government and already Rs 8000 has been sanctioned for July and August and credited to her savings bank account. This financial support from the government will continue until she turns 27 years old, he added. He further said that five children from two families in Sanarli panchayat of Karsog have been enrolled under this scheme. Three children (Kritika Verma (14) and Anshika (10) both daughters and eight-month-old son Raghav Thakur) of Lalit Kumar of Bhutti village under this panchayat who died will get Rs 1000 each per month for their education. Meanwhile, two children of Jeet Ram of Surmu village, Paramjeet (15) and Ranjit (12), will also get this financial support will continue until they turn 18 years old and will be deposited in a joint bank account with their mother, he added.

Tara Murali, architect and activist, passes away at 75

CHENNAI: Architect and activist Tara Murali passed away at her residence in Alwarpet on Saturday night, at the age of 75. Tara was an alumnus of Madras University, where she pursued her bachelors degree in architecture. She then worked for a Chennai-based architecture firm and was also the secretary of the Indian Institute of Architects. Tara was vice president of the Palani Hills Conservation Council, which was formed in 1985 by a group of ecologists, botanists and environmentalists to work towards sustainable development. The group petitioned the High Court of Madras against the state governments 1994 order that granted an exemption to the Pleasant Stay Hotel to construct a seven-floor building. In the legal battle, led by Tara, the PHCC obtained a stay from the Madras High Court, which also quashed the Government Order allowing the construction. In 2000, Jayalalithaa was convicted by a special court in the Pleasant Stay case for her involvement in granting permission for the multi-storeyed construction and was later acquitted by the Madras High Court in 2001. Tara was an advisor for the Citizen consumer and civic Action Group (CAG), a member of the Governing Council of INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art & Cultural Heritage) and also served as a member of the Madras High Court-appointed monitoring committee of CMDA (Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority). The cremation is to be held at the Besant Nagar crematorium on Monday.

Opposition loses more than government when Parliament is disrupted: Kiren Rijiju

NEW DELHI: Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Saturday said that frequent disruptions in the House hurt the Opposition more, as they lose the crucial opportunity to hold the government accountable. The remarks came after the first week of the ongoing monsoon session was largely washed out due to repeated protests by Opposition MPs. Speaking at the Sansad Ratna Awards event organised by Prime Point Foundation, Rijiju recalled how bureaucrats sometimes express relief when Parliament is adjourned. Let me tell you, officers are relieved when Parliament doesn't function because they escape the grilling. The government can be held accountable in Parliament. When the House runs, ministers face tough questions. When it adjourns within minutes, those questions don't even get raised. Opposition loses more than the government when Parliament is disrupted, he said. Those who stall the House think they are damaging the government, but in truth, they are weakening their own role in a democracy, Rijiju added. Reinforcing the importance of parliamentary accountability, the minister said, In any democracy, the government must answer to the people through Parliament. That is why allowing the House to run is essential for a functioning democracy. Reflecting on his journey in Parliament, Rijiju said he never considered Opposition MPs as adversaries. We are all colleagues. Before 2014, most of my parliamentary career has been on the Opposition benches. Political rivalries may exist, but there is no enmity, he said. Drawing from a quote by Winston Churchill, Rijiju said, A new MP once asked Churchill about the people sitting across the aisle, and he said they were political opponents. But when asked about those sitting on his side, he said they were our political enemies. That is politics, but we are not enemies. Rijiju also said there is undue burden on Indian legislators compared to their counterparts in developed countries. There, one MP represents approximately 66,000 people. Here, it is over 20 lakh. They are not asked to fix drains or get someone out of jail. But our MPs deal with personal grievances, infrastructure and law enforcement issues and are still expected to perform in the House, he said. 32-hr debate on Operation Sindoor kicks off from Monday Despite all this, they are often criticised. Every elected MP deserves respect; it is not an easy job. Recalling his own early experiences, Rijiju shared a humorous but telling anecdote. The first time I met Speaker Somnath Chatterjee, I had gone to request a room for MPs who smoke. He scolded me, saying, 'This is your first meeting with the Speaker and this is what you've come for?' I got a good scolding that day and learned I should approach such offices with more purpose. He also reflected on how senior leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee and L K Advani set examples of decorum. Back then, we would think twice before speaking because stalwarts were listening. Now disruptions begin on day one. Maybe social media has changed the game. Calling for more constructive media reporting, Rijiju said, Earlier, journalists would arrive at 9 am and cover parliamentary debates till night. Good speeches got coverage. Today, headlines go to who created the most ruckus. I remember Sharad Pawar once presented an excellent agriculture policy, but the next day not a single paper mentioned it. So now, MPs chase headlines because good work is neither reported nor recognised. Negative news drives TRPs, not constructive action. It is a vicious cycle -- both the MPs and the media are trapped in it, he said. Rijiju congratulated all the recipients of this year's Sansad Ratna Awards, including Supriya Sule, Bhartruhari Mahtab, N K Premachandran, and Shrirang Appa Barne, who received special jury awards for consistent performance in the 16th, 17th, and the current Lok Sabha. Whenever any parliamentarian is recognised for good work, we should all celebrate together, cutting across party lines, Rijiju said. National Commission for Backward Classes Chairperson Hansraj Gangaram Ahir took a swipe at the Opposition, saying, Those who claim to be followers of Babasaheb Ambedkar bring disrepute to the country by speaking against it abroad. Monsoon Session: Opposition uproar over Bihar SIR stalls Parliament for fifth consecutive day

Of over 27 million Indians facing infertility challenges, 4050 per cent are men, say experts

NEW DELHI: India has approximately 27.5 million people facing infertility challenges, with male infertility accounting for 4050 per cent of the total cases, experts said here on the occasion of World IVF Day on Friday. This growing prevalence of infertility in both women and men is driven by lifestyle changes, environmental exposures, and undiagnosed medical conditions, underscoring the urgent need for awareness, destigmatization, and inclusive treatment approaches, they said. For too long, infertility has been viewed through a lens focused only on women, while male infertility, now contributing to nearly half of all cases remains shrouded in silence, said Dr. Pankaj Talwar, President of the Indian Fertility Society (IFS), at the 6th National IVF Summit & Awards 2025, hosted by the Integrated Health & Wellbeing (IHW) Council in collaboration with the Indian Society for Assisted Reproduction (ISAR) and supported by the IFS. With rising cases linked to factors like stress, obesity, hormonal imbalances, lifestyle habits such as smoking and alcohol use, and even medication side effects, the issue is more complex than ever. Addressing it openly is critical to building a truly equitable and evidence-based approach to reproductive health in India, he said. According to Dr. Ameet Patki, President of the Indian Society of Assisted Reproduction (ISAR), Indias IVF market is set to grow from USD 750 million in 2020 to USD 3.7 billion by 2030, but behind these numbers are real people, real struggles, and often silent pain. Nearly half of all infertility cases involve male factors, yet the focus remains largely on women. Its time we change that, by replacing stigma with support and ensuring every fertility journey is met with empathy, science, and dignity. Kamal Narayan, CEO of the IHW Council, said that male infertility is no longer a silent issue, as it is a shared reality for millions of families across India. With male factors contributing to around 4050% of infertility cases, this is not a marginal concern; its a national health priority. We recognise that fertility care must evolve to reflect this truth. We cant achieve true inclusivity without addressing male reproductive health head-on. Our goal is to build a medically sound, emotionally sensitive, and socially inclusive ecosystem where care is guided by science, not stigma. Clinicians, researchers, embryologists, hospital leaders, legal experts, and patient advocates participated in the summit. At the event, Dr. Gunjan Gupta, Medical Director of Gunjan IVF World, launched a book titled How to Freeze Your Biological Clock . The book serves as a comprehensive guide for women navigating fertility planning, and also contributes to the broader dialogue on empowering individuals, both men and women with timely, evidence-based fertility choices.

ESIC Alwar Recruitment 2025 Walk in for 02 Principal Cum Professor, Professor cum Vice Principal Posts

Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC Alwar) Recruitment 2025 for 02 posts of Principal Cum Professor, Professor cum Vice Principal. Candidates with M.Sc Can attend the walkin.The Walk-in interview on 30-07-2025. For detailed information please visit ESIC Alwar official website, esic.gov.in.

India moves to shield power grid from solar equipment malware

India has introduced new rules for solar power equipment. These rules aim to protect against cyberattacks. The focus is on inverters, which convert direct current into electricity. Suppliers must connect inverters to a national software platform. This platform will be managed by a government agency. The move addresses concerns about China-made parts and grid security.

India Moves To Shield Power Grids From Solar Equipment Malware

As power grids become more automated and digitally connected, they face growing cybersecurity threats, prompting governments worldwide to tighten safeguards.

RRBMU Result 2025 Released at univindia.org Direct Link to Download Result

RRBMU Result 2025: Raj Rishi Bharthari Matsya University Alwar Result 2025 has been released on univindia.org. Here is the direct Link to check your Diploma Results Online.

2 killed, 30 hurt as kanwariya truck hits live wire in Raj

Two people died and 30 others were injured when a truck carrying kanwariyas came into contact with a hanging overhead power line in Alwar district, Rajasthan. The incident occurred during a parikrama, leading to protests and accusations of negligence against the electricity department.

Dubai returned couple held at Surat airport with over 20 kg of gold hidden under clothes

SURAT: A couple arriving from Dubai was apprehended at Surat airport on July 20 for allegedly smuggling over 20 kg of gold concealed in paste form under their clothes, officials said. The incident occurred around 10 pm when a plainclothes officer from the Central Industrial Security Forces (CISF) intelligence unit noticed the duo behaving suspiciously after deboarding an Air India flight. Their unnatural gait and visible bulges around the abdomen raised suspicion, a senior CISF official said. The officer alerted Customs personnel, who subsequently intercepted the coupleboth Gujarat residentsand carried out a thorough physical check. The man was dressed in a shirt and trousers, while the woman wore a salwar suit. Officials discovered 28 kg of gold paste strapped around their midsections and upper torsos16 kg on the woman and 12 kg on the man. Based on concentration levels, officials estimate the net gold content to exceed 20 kg. This is possibly the biggest gold seizure in the history of Surat airport, said an official involved in the investigation. The operation, officials noted, underscored the effectiveness of behavioural profiling and the seamless coordination between CISF and Customs.

V.S. Achuthanandan: Comprehensive coverage on former Kerala CMs life and times

A compilation of stories on the communist stalwart in Kerala who passed away at the age of 101. V.S. Achuthanandan rose above the cut and thrust of provincial politics

VS Achuthanandan, former Kerala CM and left stalwart, passesawayat101

Former Kerala Chief Minister and veteran CPI(M) leader V.S. Achuthanandan passes away at 101, leaving behind a legacy of clean politics and social justice.

Andhra Pradesh to be a Green Hydrogen Valley - Declared Honourable CM Sri Chandrababu Naidu at the Green Hydrogen Summit 2025, SRM AP

The Green Hydrogen Summit 2025, jointly organised by SRM University-AP , Government of Andhra Pradesh, IIT Tirupati, IISER Tirupati, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Govt. of India, New & Renewable Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh Ltd. and the SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Tamil Nadu, explores the research and development, innovation, commercialisation of green hydrogen. Keynote addresses, plenary sessions and conclaves with industry stalwarts, research organisations, and policymakers aim to open new frontiers in the green hydrogen sector.

Transgender Bangladeshi national lived in India for decade, traced in Bhopal

BHOPAL: A transgender Bangladeshi national, Abdul Kalam, had been living in Bhopal for the past ten years under the assumed identity of Neha Kinnar. Surprisingly, during this time, the Bangladeshi national had even managed to get valid identity documents to legitimise herself as an Indian citizen. Acting on specific intelligence inputs from a specialised unit tracking foreign nationals residing illegally in the state, Abdul Kalam alias Neha Kinnar was recently traced to the Mangalwara locality in old Bhopal. The Mangalwara and Budhwara areas of old Bhopal are home to a significant transgender population, and Abdul Kalam, living under the identity of Neha Kinnar, had also taken up residence there. The third gender individual was recently traced and has since then been questioned by a dedicated team of cops. Initial questioning has revealed that Abdul Kalam, who is aged around 30-32 years presently, entered India illegally, while aged 17 years and since then has lived in various parts of the country, including West Bengal, Assam, Maharashtra and MP. Abdul Kalam has been residing under the assumed identity of Neha Kinnar in Bhopal since the last ten years, a senior Bhopal police official told TNIE . Abdul Kalam managed to get the new identity of Neha Kinnar by getting various identity proof documents to give legal sanctity to the false identity. However, it remains unclear whether these documents were procured in Madhya Pradesh or elsewhere to legalsie seld as an Indian citizen. According to sources the individual was also involved in a case of physical assault with another transgender around five years back and the final court hearing in the matter is slated shortly. According to Bhopal Police Commissioner Harinarayanchari Mishra, the dedicated verification campaign is currently underway to trace foreign nationals who are living illegally in the MP capital. As per sources, the process of Abdul Kalam aka Neha Kinnar deportation to Bangladesh is likely to start over the next few days, once the entire probe about the 10 year long illegal stay in Bhopal is over.

RRBMU Result 2025 Released at univindia.org Direct Link to Download PG Course Result

RRBMU Result 2025: Raj Rishi Bharthari Matsya University Alwar Result 2025 has been released on univindia.org. Here is the direct Link to check your M.Com PG Course Results Online.

Modi to inaugurate major development projects in Bihar and Bengal today

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stones and inaugurate major projects worth over Rs 12,000 crore in West Bengal and poll-bound Bihar on Friday. He will flag off four Amrit Bharat trains from different parts of Bihar. He will visit Motihari in Bihar and Durgapur in West Bengal for this purpose and will also address public meetings at both venues, according to a statement from the PMO. In Bihar, Modi will inaugurate a new Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) facility in Darbhanga, alongside a state-of-the-art Incubation Facility at STPI in Patna. He will flag off four Amrit Bharat trains between Rajendranagar Terminal (Patna) and New Delhi, as well as between BapudhamMotihari and Delhi (Anand Vihar), and between Darbhanga and Lucknow via Bhagalpur. The projects worth Rs 7,200 crore for the state form part of a broader initiative across the oil and gas, power, road, and rail sectors. He will dedicate several railway projects to the nation, including the automatic signalling system between the Samastipur-Bachhwara rail lines to enhance efficiency in train operations. The doubling of the Darbhanga-Thalwara and Samastipur-Rambhadrapur rail linespart of the Darbhanga-Samastipur doubling projects valued at Rs 580 crorewill also be inaugurated. The Mithilanchal region, comprising electorally significant districts such as Darbhanga and Samastipur, will benefit from these developments. Modi will also lay the foundation stone for a Vande Bharat train maintenance facility at Patliputra. The Darbhanga-Narkatiaganj rail line doubling project is estimated at `4,080 crore. In the road sector, the PM will lay the foundation stone for the four-laning of the Ara-Mohania NH-319 and the Patna-Buxar NH-92, to reduce travel time. He will also inaugurate the four-lane Parariya to Mohania section of NH-319, valued at Rs 820 crore, which is a critical link connecting Ara town to the Golden Quadrilateral (NG-02). The Prime Minister will inaugurate a series of fisheries development projects. He will hand over keys to 12,000 beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin scheme. In West Bengals Durgapur, the PM will unveil projects worth Rs 5,000 crore. He will lay the stone for the oil and gas infrastructure to be developed by BPCL and gas distribution project in Bankura and Purulia.

Man held for setting fire to wifes two-wheeler in Alwarthirunagar

'Can Activate Malware, Bugs': Govt To Probe Security Risks From Chinese Medical Devices

China is the second-largest exporter of medical devices to India at around Rs 11,506 crore in 2023-24, less than US, which exported devices worth Rs 12,552 crore the same year

Rajasthan Woman Kidnapped From Outside House,Gang-Raped By 7 Men For 11 Days

A woman in Alwar, Rajasthan, was allegedly gang-raped by seven men for 11 days after being kidnapped on April 24. An FIR was filed on June 2, 2025, after a court order.

Rajasthan Minister raises questions govt's Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya poverty alleviation scheme

JAIPUR: In Rajasthan, strong opposition is emerging against the Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Department's Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Garibi Mukt Gaon Yojana. Besides critics and activists, the special feature of this opposition is that in the cabinet meeting, the minister of the department and one of the senior stalwarts of the BJP in Rajasthan Kirodi Lal Meena, raised questions on this scheme and registered his strong objection. Meena said that government assistance should be given to those families who are needy and who do not have pucca houses. He also reportedly questioned the wisdom of the move to give money as incentive to those people who are well-off and are not included in the BPL. There is no point in wasting money on ineligible people, Meena is said to have asserted according to sources. Under the Deendayal Upadhyaya Garibi Mukt Gaon Yojana, the government has recently made a provision of Rs 300 crore to provide better livelihood to families living below the poverty line. According to the list of BPL Census 2002, the survey was conducted in the first phase from April to June 2025. 122 villages were selected from each district in 41 districts and a total of 30631 families were surveyed in 5002 villages. Shocking figures came out in the survey. 72 percent of the selected families--22076 families--have by now come out of the poverty line. The state government claimed that the families above the poverty line are out of BPL. The question is that the BPL list belongs to the central government and according to this list, the benefits of many schemes like food security schemes are being given. In such a situation, will these families who have come out of the poverty line continue to get the benefits of central schemes or not? According to the first phase survey report, 6524 families are living below the poverty line. Out of these, 122 families do not have electricity-water connection, let alone food to fill their stomach. 758 do not have money for treatment and 726 families do not have gas connection, 1580 families do not have land lease, 1277 have house, 1056 have toilet. At the same time, 728 families are not getting pension. Each family coming out of the poverty line is given an incentive amount of 21 thousand and a self-reliance family card. In this way, the government has to give a total amount of 46.35 crores to 22076 families as incentive. The department has also paid the amount to many families. 77545 families from 5000 villages have been identified for the second phase survey. This phase will be completed by December. It is a different matter that this disagreement of the minister was not recorded in the meeting, but the fresh opposition of Meena, who has been a headache for the Bhajan Lal government for a long time, has again created a stir in the power corridors from Jaipur to Delhi.

TVK general secretary Aadhav Arjuna alleges threat to his life

Mr. Arjuna alleged that a series of suspicious incidents took place on July 10 outside his office on Kasthuri Rangan Road, Alwarpet.

Fervour marks Koil Alwar Thirumanjanam in Tirumala

Move to redraw boundaries of Sariska Tiger Reserve to facilitate mining draws flak from experts

A coalition of environmentalists has made urgent appeals to the Union government, Rajasthan government and Tiger Conservation Authority, voicing their concerns over the proposal to alter the boundaries of the Sariska Tiger Reserve (STR) in order to facilitate mining activities in the Aravalli hills. They emphasized that this decision could set a troubling precedent and have a negative impact on wildlife conservation efforts across the country. In early July, Indias wildlife authority approved changes to the boundaries of the STR as part of a conservation plan that also accommodates mining activities. The adjustment affects both the Critical Tiger Habitat (CTH) and the buffer zone, aiming to enhance wildlife conservation while taking into account the development needs of nearby regions. Experts warn that if the proposed rationalization plan is implemented, it could have disastrous consequences for the ecologically sensitive Aravalli region. The environmental group People for Aravallis submitted representations to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the Chief Minister of Rajasthan, and the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), expressing concerns about the recent proposal to redraw the boundaries of the Sariska Tiger Reserve. According to the group, the decision to redraw the boundaries aims to allow the reopening of at least 50 marble, dolomite, limestone, and masonry mines that were closed following a previous Supreme Court order. Activists argue that this could set a dangerous precedent across the country, legitimizing similar illegal activities. The group submitted three representations on July 14 to Indias Environment Minister, the Additional Director General (Project Tiger), and the Chief Minister of Rajasthan, urging them to abandon the proposal to redraw the boundaries of the STR, as it is flawed from both an ecological and legal standpoint, said Kay Nair, Co-Founder of People for Aravallis. Joy as tigress at Sariska gives birth to four cubs A significant concern in the proposed plan is its potential to reopen around 50 marble, dolomite, limestone, and masonry stone mines near the new boundaries of the reserve, Nair added. As per the guidelines for declaration of eco-sensitive zones around protected areas, an area of up to 10 km radius may be included as a shock absorber. The buffer zone is currently established to be a radius of 1 km around the boundaries of STR. Uma Shanker Singh, retired Principal Chief Conservator of Forest from Uttar Pradesh, who is one of the 37 retired IFS officers who wrote to the Prime Minister in February 2025 highlighting the damage to the Aravalli range as a result of mining and other activities, urged the government at the Centre and in the four Aravalli states to take urgent steps to protect Aravalli. Allowing mining in an eco-sensitive zone such as Sariska can have serious long-term harmful impacts on its flora & fauna. Blasting and mining activities hugely put the wildlife at risk, said Singh. In 2004, poaching resulted in the killing of 28 tigers in Sariska, and their number was reduced to zero. Later, tigers were relocated to Sariska from Ranthambore. After many years of successful conservation efforts, the tiger count in Sariska stands at a historic high of 49. In 1992, the government regulated development activities in the Aravallis spanning across the Gurgaon and Alwar districts of Haryana and Rajasthan through notifications. Later, in 2018, the Centrally Empowered Committee report had revealed that mining had razed 31 Aravalli hills of Alwar district to the ground. The government and the Supreme Court must scrap the ecologically disastrous proposal to redraw boundaries of Sariska which is not in the interest of protecting our national animal and instead benefits the miners, said Dr Rajendra Singh, a water conservationist from Rajasthan.

Watch: Umayalpuram explains how to play for the stalwarts of Carnatic music

Recalling his experience with Ariyakudi Ramanuja Iyengar, he said the veteran often sang in madhyama kalam, and sometimes the mridangam player had to establish the tempo before he began the kriti.

Haryana govt orders suspension of mobile internet, ban on non-veg ahead of Braj Mandal Jalabhishek Yatra

CHANDIGARH: The Haryana Government ordered suspension of mobile internet and the bulk SMS services in Nuh district for 24 hours and a complete ban on the sale of non-vegetarian food ahead of the Braj Mandal Jalabhishek Yatra on Monday, The orders have been issued by the Additional Chief Secretary (Home), Haryana. The internet services will be suspended for twenty hours from 9 pm on July 13 till 9 pm on July 14. The SMS facility related to baking and mobile recharge will continue as before. As per orders issued by the district administration, a complete ban has been imposed on the sale, display, and public handling of meat, fish, or any kind of non-vegetarian food items along the yatra route from Nalhad Mahadev Temple to Jhir Keshwar Mahadev Temple (Ferozepur Jhirka) and up to Singar Temple (Singar). A ban has also been ordered in the areas surrounding these three religious sites. This restriction will be effective only on July 14. All concerned shopkeepers, vendors, and food establishments are directed to strictly comply with this order. Deputy Commissioner Vishram Kumar Meena said the district administration has held meetings with the organising committee, the district-level peace committee, trade associations, and prominent individuals to communicate all arrangements and contingencies for the Brij Mandal Jalabhishek Yatra. He said that, to ensure smooth conduct and law and order during the Brij Mandal Jalabhishek Yatra on July 14, major traffic changes are expected in several parts of the Nuh district. All the schools in the district will be closed as a precautionary measure. In the interest of student safety and convenience, all government and private schools in the Nuh district will remain closed on Monday, July 14. The District Education Officer has been directed to ensure compliance with the orders, he said. Meena informed that 24 Duty Magistrates have been appointed at various locations, with 12 kept in reserve. Along with each DSP, one Duty Magistrate has been deployed. The heavy vehicles coming from Alwar (Rajasthan), Gurugram, Delhi, Tawadu, and Hodal will be rerouted on July 14. One duty magistrate has been appointed at each of the district's 14 police stations, two at each of the three temples, three with the yatra procession, one at every toll plaza and five magistrates have been kept in reserve. A ban has been imposed on the use of drones, microlights, aircraft, gliders, power gliders, hot air balloons, kite flying, Chinese microlights, and fireworks on July 13 and 14. He further said that orders have been issued to prohibit the open sale of petrol and diesel during the yatra throughout the district. Superintendent of Police Rajesh Kumar said that 22 units of police and paramilitary forces have been deployed in the district for the Yatra, which include mounted police, dog squads, and bomb squads. Night-vision drones will be used for nighttime surveillance. Cow vigilante Bittu Bajrangi, who was also accused in the 2023 Nuh violence, has been denied permission and his social media accounts have been suspended. On July 31, 2023, two home guards were killed, and at least 15 others including several policemen, were injured as a mob in Nuh tried to stop a Vishva Hindu Parishad procession, pelting stones and setting cars on fire. The BJP government in the state then led by Manohar Khattar, had drawn sharp criticism from the opposition parties over the violence.

Not interested in direct elections anymore: Union Minister Jual Oram

SAMBALPUR: Veteran BJP leader and Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram on Saturday announced he would no longer contest direct elections. The younger generation, he said, should be given more opportunities in Odisha's political landscape. Interacting with the media following his visit to the Rozgar Mela in Sambalpur, Oram said he may be chosen as Governor or nominated to Rajya Sabha but will not take part in direct elections anymore. I have contested elections 10 times during my career - eight times as MP and twice as MLA. I am not willing to contest direct elections anymore, he said. However, he clarified that he is not considering formal retirement from politics. I may be sent to the Rajya Sabha or appointed as a Governor by the party. In any case, I will continue serving my party, he added. Oram, who currently represents Sundargarh in the Lok Sabha, reiterated that while the decision to step back from electoral contests is personal, it may be revisited if the party insists. I am not retiring but it is my personal choice to not contest as an MLA or MP again. If the party disagrees and forces me to contest, I will have to reconsider my decision, he said. Oram had earlier indicated during the previous election that he would not contest either Lok Sabha or Vidhan Sabha polls. With his latest announcement, he has reasserted his call. The time has come to make way for younger leaders, the 64-year-old BJP stalwart said. Over the course of his political career spanning more than three decades, Oram was first elected to the Odisha Legislative Assembly from Bonai in 1990 and served two terms until 1998. He entered the Lok Sabha from Sundargarh in 1998 and was re-elected in 1999, when he was inducted into the Union Cabinet as the country's first Minister of Tribal Affairs. He subsequently won the parliamentary seat in 2004, 2014, 2019, and again in 2024. He also served as state BJP president in 1997.

Mandi cloudburst: Family dead or missing, 10-month-old baby lone survivor

In a tragic cloudburst in Mandi district's Talwara village, ten-month-old Neetika is likely the sole survivor of her family. Her father's body was recovered, while her mother and grandmother remain missing. A neighbor found the infant, and authorities are opening a bank account for her as people offer assistance.

Unidentified girl found dead in Thane; police suspect murder

THANE: The body of an unidentified minor girl has been found near a construction site in Maharashtra's Thane city, police said on Sunday. A case of murder has been registered and a probe is on into it, they said. Some persons spotted the body, with a hood tightly wrapped around the girl's neck, near a road in front of a construction site in Kasarvadavali area on Saturday afternoon and alerted local authorities, an official from the police control room said. The deceased, about four feet tall and believed to be in the age group of 15 to 17 years, was dressed in a green salwar-kurta and had bangles on her wrists, the official said. The body has been sent for postmortem and photographs of the deceased have been circulated among the law enforcement agencies to aid in her identification. The Kasarvadavali police have registered a case under sections 103(1) (murder) and 238 (destruction of evidence) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the official said. Thane crime branch sub-inspector Tushar Mane is leading the investigation and can be reached on the number - 9082150306 - for any information pertaining to the deceased, the police said.

Avoid littering, abstain from alcohol and caffeine, wear trekking gear: Amarnath shrine board advises pilgrims

SRINAGAR: Ahead of the 38-day-long annual Amarnath Yatra starting from Thursday, the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) has issued an advisory to yatris, asking them to respect the environment, abstain from alcoholic and caffeinated drinks, and cautioned women pilgrims to avoid wearing sarees during trekking. The 38-day-yatra will start from both routes --- traditional Pahalgam route in south Kashmir and shortest Baltal route in central Kashmir --- on July 3 and conclude on August 9. The first batch of pilgrims was flagged off from base camp in Jammu by Lt Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday morning. The pilgrims will reach base camps in Baltal and Pahalgam today, and will begin their journey to the Amarnath cave tomorrow. The SASB issued Dos and Donts for the pilgrims. In its advisory, the SASB has advised the pilgrims undertaking the yatra to respect the environment. Please respect the environment and do nothing whatsoever to pollute the Yatra area. Please do not throw used plastic bottles and other garbage in the open, the advisory stated. In the first 20 days of Amarnath pilgrimage last year, about 200 tonnes of waste was collected from both the yatra routes. Do not do anything during your entire forward/return journey which could cause pollution or disturb the environment of the Yatra area. Use of plastics is strictly banned in the State and is punishable under law, the SASB advised the pilgrims. The pilgrims were also asked not to drink alcohol, caffeinated drinks or smoke during the yatra. The pilgrims have also been advised not to commence yatra on an empty stomach. Please do not overexert during the Yatra beyond your normal capacity. Free food facility is available in the entire Yatra area at the langars. Please consume plenty of carbohydrates and follow the prescribed food menu during the yatra, the SASB told the pilgrims. The women pilgrims have been advised to avoid wearing Saree during trekking. Women should wear Salwar Kameez, Pant-Shirt, Track suit or any recommended clothing suited for trekking on high altitude during the yatra, the SASB advisory read. The pilgrims were requested to wear appropriate trekking garments because there are steep rises and falls on the route to the Amarnath Cave and asked pilgrims to wear trekking shoes only. Do carry an umbrella, wind cheater, raincoat, and waterproof shoes as the weather in the Yatra area is unpredictable, the pilgrims have been advised. The yatris have also been asked to not attempt any shortcuts and walk only on the track and never stop at places which are marked by warning notice. Travel in groups with porters, horses, ponies and ensure they remain in your sight. Please help your fellow Yatris on the tracks. The Amarnath cave is located at around 12,800 feet, please take precautions in view of high-altitude sickness and avoid overnight stay at the Cave. Do not ignore the symptoms of high-altitude sickness. Walk slowly while ascending, relax at regular intervals and descend immediately to lower elevation in case of any symptom of sickness, discomfort during the Yatra and seek nearby Medical help, the pilgrims have been advised. The yatris have been asked to wear a Unique RFID tag on their neck at all times during the yatra for safety and security.

Anderson Peters pulls out of Neeraj Chopra Classic

The 27-year-old Grenada stalwart, who had taken the bronze medal behind Neeraj at the Paris Olympics last year, has been replaced by Poland's Cyprian Mrzygd in the event schedule for Saturday

Indian Navy commissions latest frigate INS Tamal

NEW DELHI: The Indian Navy on Tuesday commissioned INS Tamal(F71), a multi-role stealth guided missile frigate at the Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad, Russia. INS Tamal is the eighth multi-role stealth frigate in the series of Project 1135.6 and the second of the additional follow-on Tushil class of ships. The first ship of Tushil class (INS Tushil) was commissioned on 09 Dec 24 in the presence of the Defence Minister. The Indian Navy in a statement said, All seven ships inducted thus far are part of the Western Fleet - 'The Sword Arm' of the Indian Navy under the Western Naval Command. This ceremony marks the formal induction of INS Tamal into the Indian Navy. The ship is commanded by Capt Sridhar Tata, a gunnery and missile warfare specialist. Vice Admiral (VAdm) Sanjay Jasjit Singh, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command was the Chief Guest at the commissioning ceremony. In his address, the Chief Guest, V Adm Sanjay Jasjit Singh noted that the commissioning of Tamal into the Indian Navy marked a significant milestone in the country's maritime defense capabilities and Indo-Russian Cooperation. Vice Admiral Singh commented that INS Tamal joins the illustrious list of Talwar, Teg, and Tushil class of ships, renowned for their dependability and prowess. Though being built in Russia, the ship has 26% indigenous components , including the BrahMos long-range cruise missile and Humsa-Next Generation (NG) Sonar system, Singh added. Tamal is the 51st ship being produced under India, Russia collaborative effort in the past 65 years. The construction of the next two ships of the class in India further enhances the scope, potential and wide horizon in harnessing and synergising mutual strengths and joint capabilities. He concluded his address by emphasising that the Indian Navy stands as a credible, capable, cohesive, and future-ready force ready to meet any challenges anytime, anywhere. As per Navy, INS Tamal is a formidable moving fortress at sea and is designed for blue water operations across the spectrum of naval warfare in all four dimensions ie. air, surface, underwater and electromagnetic. The construction of the warship began with its launch on 24 February 2022. She sailed for her maiden sea trials Nov 2024, and completed an exhaustive schedule of Factory Trials State Committee Trials and the Delivery Acceptance Trials, both in harbour and at sea, by Jun 2025. The ship has successfully carried out trial firing of all her Russian weapon systems including the vertical launched surface to air missile Shtil-1, artillery weapons and torpedoes. Elaborating on the weapons systems, Indian Navy said, Tamal punches well above her weight with Dual role BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, vertically launched surface to air missile with extended ranges, the standard 30 MM Close in Weapon System, the 100 MM Main gun and very potent Anti Submarine Warfare (ASW) rockets and heavyweight torpedoes. Tamal is an amalgamation of Indian and Russian technologies with a host of state of the art communication and network centric operational capabilities. The complement of advanced electronic warfare suite and advanced EO/IR systems adds ears and eyes to this potent platform. The highly versatile combat management system fuses all weapons and sensors into an effective fighting machine. The ship is also capable of embarking the upgraded Anti-submarine and Airborne Early Warning helicopters, the Kamov 28 and Kamov 31, which are formidable force multipliers, the Navy added. The ship has been equipped with complex automated systems for nuclear, biological and chemical defence, including damage control and fire-fighting that can be operated centrally from sheltered posts. These complex systems aid in minimising casualties, achieve rapid restoration of combat effectiveness, enhancing combat capability and survivability. INS Tamal is manned by a crew of about 250 sailors and 26 officers. The officers and sailors of this ship embody the ships motto - Sarvatra Sarvada Vijaya (Victory always everywhere) , signifying Tamal's undying commitment to operational excellence in every mission, complementing Indian Navy's motto 'Combat Ready, Credible, Cohesive and Future Ready Force Safeguarding National Maritime Interests - Anytime, Anywhere'. The ship will soon embark on her maiden passage back to her homeport of Karwar in Karnataka. Tamal will touch various ports enroute and showcase her combat prowess. It would reach India in combat-ready conditions set to dominate maritime space.

Congress leader Kunal Patil joins BJP

MUMBAI: In a blow to the Congress in north Maharashtra, former MLA Kunal Patil, a third-generation leader who hails from a family of staunch Congress loyalists and son of ex-minister the late Rohidas Patil, on Tuesday joined the BJP. Patil, who hails from Dhule, asserted that his decision was voluntary and backed by the people. There is no pressure on me to join the BJP. I come from a tradition of public service. My supporters and voters have supported my decision. I am joining the BJP to serve the people more effectively, he told reporters after senior BJP leaders Chandrashekhar Bawankule, Ravindra Chavan, and Girish Mahajan welcomed him into the party fold. Patil lost the assembly election in November 2024 on a Congress ticket. He had previously served two terms as an MLA. His defection is seen as a significant loss for the Congress, given his family's deep-rooted association with the party for over three generations. He is the son of the late Rohidas Patil, a Congress stalwart and former state minister who held key portfolios, across successive Congress governments. In a sign of the family's importance within the party, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had visited Rohidas Patil at his residence when he was unwell in March last year and even arranged a phone conversation between him and former Congress president Sonia Gandhi. Kunal Patil's grandfather, Chudaman Patil, also served as a three-time MP from the Dhule Lok Sabha constituency between 1962 and 1971. Maharashtra Congress president Harshavardhan Sapkal criticised the move, calling it self-sabotaging. Patil's decision is self-harming. The BJP cannot nurture its own cadre into leadership roles, which is why it is stealing leaders from other parties. Kunal Patil comes from a proud Congress legacy. His father and grandfather were both prominent Congress figures who held key posts. They would be deeply hurt by this decision, he said. Leader of the Congress Legislature Party, Vijay Wadettiwar, said whoever wants to leave the Congress is free to do so. We will continue to work hard and strengthen the party in Maharashtra. Patil's exit follows that of former Pune MLA Sangram Thopte, another Congress loyalist, who switched to the BJP in April, further reflecting the growing attrition within the Congress's traditional base.

More than 100 illegal waste sites flagged in Haryana Aravallis, citizens demand No-Go-Area designation

CHANDIGARH: Demanding the declaration of No-Go-Area zones for waste dumping, burning and landfills, over 100 geo-tagged locations across five districts of Haryana, Gurugram, Faridabad, Nuh, Rewari and Charkhi Dadri, have been highlighted in the second part of the State of the Haryana Aravallis: Citizens Report . The Aravalli mountain range, estimated to be over two billion years old, is under serious threat due to rampant violations, according to the report submitted by the People for Aravallis group to Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini. Neelam Ahluwalia, Founder Member of People for Aravallis, said the report underscores how illegal industrial waste burning continues in several villages despite a blanket ban imposed by the Nuh Deputy Commissioner in early May this year on open waste burning within the ecologically fragile Aravalli region. The report highlights how, in direct violation of the blanket ban imposed by Nuh Deputy Commissioner in early May this year on open waste burning within the ecologically fragile Aravalli region, alleged illegal industrial waste burning continues in Khori Khurd, Khori Kalan, Sonari, Gurnawat, Rangala, Naharpur, Sewka and other villages in Tauru, which is resulting in severe air, soil and groundwater pollution, she said. It also throws light on the pollution being caused in the eco-sensitive Aravalli region as a result of the infamous Bandhwari landfill and a landfill site near ITI Colony on the old Sohna-Alwar road, where mixed waste is being dumped daily. Regular fires at both landfill sites in the Gurugram Aravallis emit dangerous toxins, as organic waste, e-waste, plastic, chemicals and hazardous waste are all burnt together, adding to Delhi-NCRs and Haryanas air pollution, heat index and climate sensitivity, she claimed. She further said, The report also highlights how, over the last few years, hazardous solid waste from the Bandhwari landfill and other kinds of waste have been dumped in mining quarries and forest areas across many locations in the Gurugram and Faridabad Aravallis, contaminating the soil, surface and groundwater in NCRs lifeline for clean air, water recharge and wildlife habitat. The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) had tested samples of the solid waste from the Bandhwari landfill dumped in one of the Aravalli forest areas near the landfill and found a high concentration of pathogens and toxic metals. Dumped waste lying in 100-plus locations across five districts of the state where the Aravalli range runs, as mentioned in the report, must be removed from these eco-sensitive areas immediately and disposed of in a responsible manner. It is critical to establish a mechanism for strict monitoring and accountability, which is completely lacking at this point, in order to bring any positive change to the current extremely dismal health of the Aravallis, she said. Neelam added, We urge the government to constitute Aravalli Protection Task Force Committees in all the Aravalli districts, headed by the DC of each district under the supervision of the Chief Secretary. Strict accountability with severe consequences is a must to ensure that government officials do their job without neglect and in a proactive manner to safeguard the Aravallis, so that our cattle, wildlife and people in the Aravalli districts in Haryana can live with dignity, without gasping for breath, drinking toxic water and being sick. Dr Rajendra Singh, the globally renowned water conservationist, said, Aquifers lying beneath the Aravallis are interconnected and any disturbance or alterations in the pattern due to toxic landfills and waste dumping can significantly alter the purity of the groundwater table. Aravallis need to be declared as a No-Go area for waste dumping, burning, landfills and waste plants, as we cannot afford to pollute our green lungs, critical water recharge zones and wildlife habitats any further. Dr Shyamala Mani, Senior Waste Management Expert who works as Senior Advisor at the Centre for Chronic Disease Control and is a former professor at the National Institute of Urban Affairs, said, Sustainable waste management is the need of the hour. No fresh, mixed waste should go to the existing landfill sites in the Aravallis. Focus must be on decentralised waste management, source segregation and maximum resource recovery from waste, so that minimal waste goes to the landfills, which must be set up outside the eco-sensitive Aravalli region. The use of single-use plastic items must be banned in all the Aravalli districts. Earlier, a month ago, Part 1 of the Citizens Report, which focused on the worrying state of the Aravallis due to rampant mining, deforestation and illegal encroachments, was submitted.

Sh. Amarnath Vaishnavi The Voice and Shield of Kashmiri Pandits Through Turbulent Times

ByRohini Vaishnavi Sh. Amarnath Vaishnavi, a stalwart in Kashmiri history, dedicated over seven decades to selfless service and advocacy, beginning with Indias independence in 1947. During the Pakistani aggression in Kashmir, after Maharaja Hari Singh signed the Treaty of Accession, Vaishnavi, an RSS Karyakarta, and his team played a pivotal role in preparing a makeshift airport for Indian troops to land in Srinagar. His tireless efforts during the Praja Parishad movement culminated in 2019 with the abrogation of Article [] The post Sh. Amarnath Vaishnavi The Voice and Shield of Kashmiri Pandits Through Turbulent Times appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Government strengthens cybercrime crackdown as cases surge nationwide

NEW DELHI: With internet usage and online financial transactions rising sharply over the past two years, cybercrime cases involving phishing emails, financial fraud, and ransomware attacks have seen a corresponding surge. Cybercriminals are deploying increasingly sophisticated and evolving techniques to defraud unsuspecting individuals across the globe. These crimes often have cross-border implications, prompting international cooperation among law enforcement agencies, a senior CBI official said. Identifying human error as the primary enabler of cyber fraud, the official noted, Criminals use social engineering tactics to manipulate people into revealing sensitive information. Many individuals are unaware of common scam methods, making them easy targets. Fraudsters exploit emotions such as fear (threats of legal action), excitement (fake lottery wins), or urgency (bogus emergency fund requests). They frequently impersonate trusted sources, including banks, government agencies, and even close friends. Cybercriminals are also exploiting online payment systems through fraudulent UPI requests and QR codes, card skimming, SIM swaps, and scams involving cryptocurrency and fake investment schemes. The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has regularly issued advisories about ransomware threats. It noted that the dark web has become a marketplace for stolen data, hacking tools, and illegal services. Organised cybercriminal groups now engage in activities such as identity theft, data sales, and Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS). In response to this growing threat, the government has significantly strengthened its cybercrime defence infrastructure. The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, has been established and integrated with law enforcement agencies nationwide. Over 50,000 Cyber Commandos have been deployed across police stations, and a dedicated portal has been launched for reporting cybercrime especially cases involving women and children ensuring rapid response by authorities. To further this effort, the CBI has launched Operation Chakra-V, a comprehensive initiative encompassing intelligence gathering, case registration, raids, arrests, and prosecutions targeting cybercriminals. Since the operation's launch earlier this year, the CBI has conducted searches in multiple states including Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh focusing on perpetrators of digital arrest scams. The agency is also cracking down on so-called kingpins and individuals involved in the SIM card supply chain, which fuels these crimes. Officials have mapped key cybercrime hotspots beyond traditional centres like Jamtara (Jharkhand) and Nuh (Haryana), identifying new hubs in Kolkata and Purulia (West Bengal), Mumbai (Maharashtra), Mathura (Uttar Pradesh), and Bharatpur and Alwar (Rajasthan). In a major recent crackdown, the CBI arrested nine individuals linked to the operation of approximately 8.5 lakh mule accounts across over 700 bank branches nationwide. These accounts were allegedly used in digital arrest scams and to launder proceeds of cyber fraud. Based on intelligence inputs, coordinated searches were carried out at 42 locations across Rajasthan, Delhi, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. A CBI spokesperson said, The mule accounts were being operated by organised cybercriminal networks involved in impersonation, fraudulent advertising, investment frauds, and UPI-based scams. He further noted that these fraudsters often receive assistance from rogue bank officials, agents, intermediaries, and e-Mitras, who help facilitate the opening and use of mule accounts by bypassing Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations and due diligence protocols. Earlier this month, the CBI searched 10 locations across Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra, arresting a man in Mumbai accused of supplying pre-activated SIM cards and mule accounts to criminal networks. Last month, in two separate cases, the agency arrested 11 cybercriminals. In the first, six individuals were taken into custody for defrauding Japanese citizens, following raids at 19 sites across Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. In the second case, raids were conducted at 42 locations across Assam, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, resulting in the arrest of five individuals for selling unauthorised SIM cards used in cyber fraud. Since the launch of the financial fraud reporting portal in 2021, over 10 lakh complaints have been registered, helping authorities recover nearly 4,000 crore. Officials at I4C credit this success to the portal's ability to enable immediate reporting and rapid intervention in cases of financial fraud.

Congress takes dig at BJP's 'Alwar double engine' over plan to 'redraw' Sariska reserve's boundary

The Congress party has criticized both the central and Rajasthan governments over a proposed redrawing of the Sariska Tiger Reserve's boundaries. This move, allegedly aimed at reactivating over 50 previously shut mining operations, is seen as ecologically devastating. Jairam Ramesh highlighted the successful tiger revival efforts in Sariska and warned against the fragmentation of critical tiger habitat for mining benefits.

Congress takes dig at BJPs Alwar double engine over plan to redraw Sariska reserves boundary

The Opposition party also said that with the Rajasthan and Union Environment Ministers both being from Alwar, this double engine cannot be supporting such a move.

Pushkar Singh Dhami becomes longest-serving BJP CM in Uttarakhands 25-year history

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday cemented his position as the longest-serving BJP Chief Minister in the state's 25-year existence. This achievement places him as the second longest-serving Chief Minister overall since the state's formation, a record still held by the late Congress stalwart, Pandit Narain Dutt Tiwari, who completed a full five-year term. Dhami's remarkable tenure surpasses that of all his BJP predecessors, including Bhuvan Chand Khanduri (who served twice), Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, and most notably, Trivendra Singh Rawat (TSR). The path to this milestone began following the abrupt ouster of TSR, who was asked by the party high command to resign just a week shy of completing his four-year term on March 10, 2021. Former Uttarakhand CM Trivendra Singh Rawat The sudden demand for his resignation came while the budget session was in full swing in the summer capital, Gairsain - a decision that reportedly continues to sting Rawat, who occasionally vocalises his dissent with sharp, uncomfortable statements against the current state government. The BJP's unexpected decision to remove TSR left political analysts in the state bewildered. The party swiftly replaced him, not deeming it fit for Rawat to remain in office even for an hour. In another surprising move, the BJP handed over the reins to Tirath Singh Rawat, then a Member of Parliament from Pauri Garhwal. He became the state's 12th Chief Minister and the fifth from the BJP. Although Tirath had earlier served as Education Minister in the Uttarakhand cabinet in 2007, his tenure as Chief Minister was short-lived, lasting just 116 days from March 10, 2021, to July 4, 2021, prompting the party high command to swiftly rethink its strategy. Subsequently, Pushkar Singh Dhami, a three-time MLA and a known protg of former Chief Minister Bhagat Singh Koshyari, was entrusted with the state's leadership. The very genesis of Uttarakhand, carved out of Uttar Pradesh, was to ensure holistic development in its challenging mountainous regions. Senior political analyst and historian Jai Singh Rawat highlighted the state's precarious political landscape since its inception. Nityanand Swami of the BJP took oath as the first Chief Minister of the interim government on November 9, 2000, Rawat told TNIE . Nityanand Swami, the first CM of Uttarakhand. Unfortunately, political instability has plagued Uttarakhand since its formation. Swami was replaced in just 354 days due to opposition from within his own party rivals. Following him, Bhagat Singh Koshyari, deeply associated with the RSS, took charge on October 30, 2001, but he too lasted only 122 days. The first elected government was formed in 2002, with the Congress securing a majority, and the state's leadership fell to party veteran Pandit Narain Dutt Tiwari. Despite traditional factionalism and internal discord within the Congress, Pandit Tiwari successfully completed a five-year term, an unprecedented feat that remains his record to this day, Jai Singh Rawat told TNIE . Chief Minister Dhami completed three years and 358 days in office on Friday, surpassing Trivendra Singh Rawat's tenure of 3 years and 357 days. BJP's State Media In-charge, Manveer Chauhan, attributed Dhami's achievement to the culmination of dozens of public-welfare decisions taken under his leadership, including the stringent anti-copying law, land law, anti-conversion law, and the Uniform Civil Code.

Lord Murugan conference: AIADMK remained silent on video clip criticising Annadurai fearing BJP, says Chidambaram

Mr. Chidambaram said the AIADMK dignitaries who attended the conference should have walked out of the venue when a video clip criticising the Dravidian stalwarts was played at the event held in Madurai on June 22.

Resignations pile up in Punjab Congress as party rift deepens after Ludhiana West loss

CHANDIGARH: All is not well within the faction-ridden Punjab Congress following the partys defeat in the Ludhiana (West) by-election, as senior leaders Pargat Singh and Kushaldeep Dhillon have resigned from their posts as state unit vice-presidents. This comes close on the heels of former cabinet minister and party candidate Bharat Bhushan Ashu quitting his post. The knives are now being unsheathed within the grand old party, albeit carefully and in a calibrated manner. Both leaders have sent their resignations to All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary (organisation) KC Venugopal and general secretary in-charge for Punjab Bhupesh Baghel. Party sources said both Pargat and Dhillon, who had actively campaigned for Ashu, felt the election result called for honest introspection and that it would be wrong to interpret it as an individuals defeat. Punjab Congress president and Member of Parliament from Ludhiana, Amrinder Singh Raja Warring, and Leader of the Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa had largely stayed away from canvassing, appearing only in the final days of the partys campaign. Ludhiana district Congress chief Sanjay Talwar and former MLAs Surinder Dawar, Kuldeep Singh Vaid and Rakesh Pandey also stayed away from Ashus campaign. Sources further revealed that Ashu had categorically told the party high command that Warring and Bajwa should not campaign for him due to his differences with both top leaders. The resignations reflect the deepening fault lines within the party. The campaign for the Ludhiana (West) by-election was spearheaded by a group of senior leaders, including former Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi, MLAs Rana Gurjeet Singh and Pargat Singh. Rana is the same leader who had earlier described Warring as a selfish leader and had shown a strong interest in becoming the state Congress president. The developments come a day after Bharat Bhushan Ashu, who was appointed working president of the Punjab Congress on April 11, 2022, resigned from his post. He stated, I take full moral responsibility for this defeat. The state Congress president and the Leader of Opposition were nowhere in the campaign. He added that he had sent his resignation to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Punjab Congress in-charge Bhupesh Baghel. Punjab Congress president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring said he was not aware of the development as the resignations had not been sent to him. It is for the party high command to see, he said. Meanwhile, the tussle between Simarjeet Singh Bains and Bharat Bhushan Ashu has also come out into the open, with Bains calling Ashu arrogant, while Ashu responded by saying he did not consider Bains a Congressman.

SMVDSB directs BRO to complete Shiv Khori helipad by Oct this year

LG reviews, inaugurates various projects Excelsior Correspondent KATRA, June 24: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired the historic 75th meeting of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), at Spiritual Growth Centre, here today. The meeting was attended by the newly constituted Board, comprising members including Mahamandleshwar Swami Vishveshvaranand Giriji Maharaj, Baleshwar Rai, Dr Ashok Bhan, Sudha Murty, Gunjan Rana, Dr K.K. Talwar, Kulbhushan Ahuja, Lalit Bhasin and Suresh Kumar Sharma. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Dr Mandeep K. [] The post SMVDSB directs BRO to complete Shiv Khori helipad by Oct this year appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Mathews bows out as a stalwart who gave it his all for Sri Lanka

The all-rounder, fourth in the list of the island nations most capped Test players with 119 appearances over a 16-year span, will no longer don the white flannels; just as Sangakkara, Jayawardene and Muralitharan were irreplaceable following their retirements, the 38-year-olds absence will leave a big void

INS Tamal, stealth warship with BrahMos, coming next week: Why it matters, specifications, weapons, and Indian Navy's future plans

The Indian Navy is set to commission INS Tamal, a Talwar-class frigate from Russia, on July 1, 2025, marking the end of foreign frigate acquisitions. This move emphasizes India's shift towards domestic shipbuilding, with future warships being constructed in Indian shipyards. INS Tamal is equipped with advanced weaponry and sensors, enhancing the Navy's capabilities for long-range strikes and maritime defense.

Indian Navy Set To Commission Its Latest Stealth Frigate 'Tamal' In Russia

The ship is christened as Tamal and is the eighth of the series of Krivak class frigates inducted from Russia over the past two decades, with Tamal itself being the second ship of the Tushil Class, which are the upgraded versions of their predecessors, Talwar and Teg classes, having three ships each

Beware Britons! scammers are using QR codes in car parkings to trick you; heres how you can protect yourself

A surge in QR code scams, dubbed 'quishing,' has cost UK residents millions, Action Fraud warns. Criminals are exploiting QR codes in car parks and online platforms, tricking victims into visiting fraudulent websites or downloading malware. Over 780 cases were reported in a year, with scammers also targeting online sellers and impersonating government entities.

Minecraft players target of online criminals posing as coders, why its a big concern and how can gamers stay safe

Minecraft users are facing a new threat. Criminals are posing as game coders and are using malware to steal data. This malware targets bank accounts and crypto wallets. Gamers modify Minecraft, creating an opportunity for hackers. The malware hides in game modifications. Users should use strong passwords and update software. They must also monitor account activity to stay safe.

China-Russia trust erodes as Beijings hackers go rogue, launch cyberattacks to steal Ukraine war secrets

China hackers targeting Russia have secretly launched cyberattacks on Russian defense systems since the Ukraine war began, despite public claims of a strong alliance. Cybersecurity experts say Chinese groups linked to the state are digging into sensitive military dataranging from drone warfare to nuclear submarine tech. Hackers like Mustang Panda and Sanyo have targeted major Russian firms, using tools like Deed RAT malware. A leaked Russian FSB document now labels China an enemy, exposing growing mistrust. These silent cyber intrusions show that even so-called allies are spying for battlefield secrets. The story reveals a deeper conflict beneath the surface friendship.

Kalaguru was an extraordinary teacher: Prof Amarjyoti Choudhury

Guwahati, June 20 :The Assam Royal Global University (RGU) observed Rabha Divas today with a glowing tribute to Kalaguru Bishnu Prasad Rabha, the legendary cultural stalwart of Assam, marking his 56th death anniversary. The commemorative event was organised by the Dr Bhupen Hazarika Centre for Creativity at RGU, bringing together doyens of art, literature, and [] The post Kalaguru was an extraordinary teacher: Prof Amarjyoti Choudhury appeared first on The Shillong Times .

16 billion passwords exposed in unprecedented cyber leak of 2025, experts raise global alarm

A massive breach has exposed over 16 billion login credentials, creating unprecedented risks of phishing, identity theft, and account takeovers. The stolen data, gathered by infostealer malware, includes URLs, logins, and passwords for various online services. Experts advise immediate password changes, multi-factor authentication, and the use of password managers to mitigate potential damage.

TAPMIs induction programme in Udupi on June 21

Induction program for 2025-27 MBA batch with industry stalwarts, is designed to give a glimpse of management studies, says TAPMI director

Farmers protesting against borewell project near Siliserh Lake stopped from entering Alwar city

JAIPUR: Tension flared in Alwar as hundreds of farmers protesting a government boring project near Siliserh Lake were stopped by police while attempting to enter the city with a 500-tractor convoy on Wednesday. For the past 20 days, farmers have been staging a sit-in protest on the outskirts of the city, opposing the governments move to construct 30 borewells around the Siliserh Lake. Ultimately, the protest escalated as the convoy attempted to enter the city. In response, the administration set up barricades at key locations and deployed a heavy police force to maintain law and order. Farmer leaders have declared they are willing to face arrest if necessary. If 35 borings are installed, the lake will dry up completely. This Silisreh Lake is a tourist spot. They want to destroy it, there is water at 200 feet here. By boring at 1000 feet, they will dry up the farmers' land. Neither will there be farming nor milk. Bhupat Baliyan, one of the protesting farmers, said. The borewell project, aimed at improving Alwar citys water supply, was inaugurated by the Chief Minister on May 20. The state government has already approved the budget and begun groundwork. However, locals from the Siliserh region argue that the boring will significantly lower groundwater levels, leaving their agricultural land dry and unfit for cultivation. Our farming will be destroyed. This is a fight for survival. The administration considers farmers terrorists. They will ruin the country, they will ruin the farmers. Do not destroy Silisreh, we are ready to be lathi-charged but will not give up the agitation, said a farmer at the protest site. The protesters insist that instead of boring, the government should channel water through the existing canal system. We are from the Siliserh Lake area. We will not allow boring to happen here. There is already a canal; water should be supplied through that, a farmer said. Despite the rising tension, talks between the administration and farmer representatives remain inconclusive. Security continues to be tight across Alwar, as authorities keep a close watch on the situation.

9-year-old boy witnesses father's murder; mother held for plotting with lover in Alwar

The incident took place on the night of June 7, when Veeru Jatav, who ran a tent business, was allegedly killed by Kashiram Prajapat, a street vendor and the lover of Veeru's wife, Anita, with the help of hired accomplices.

Now, A Case Like Sonam's In Alwar!

IIn an echo of the Sonam Raghuvanshi case in Meghalaya, the Alwar police in Rajasthan has arrested a woman for allegedly killing her husband in league with her lover.

Rajasthan Man Killed By Wife, Her Lover; Rs 2 Lakh Offered To Hitmen For Crime

A man named was murdered in Alwar, Rajasthan, allegedly by his wife and her lover, who hired contract killers for Rs 2 lakh. The crime was exposed by the couple's minor son.

FBI issues nationwide warning to iPhone users about malicious text message delete before its too late

The FBI is warning iPhone users across the US about a sophisticated text scam disguised as official communication from the DMV. These messages threaten fines or license suspension and contain malicious links designed to steal personal information. Authorities urge immediate deletion and reporting to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center to avoid malware installation and data theft.

Kohli and I traded dominance, didnt feel like that with Sachin: Anderson

London, June 16: England fast bowling great James Anderson enjoyed his battles against Indian stalwarts Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli over the course of his 21-year long career but he found bowling to the latter a tad tougher. Anderson, who made his Test debut in 2003, retired only last season to cap off a special [] The post Kohli and I traded dominance, didnt feel like that with Sachin: Anderson appeared first on The Shillong Times .

Rajasthan BJP ex-pradhan alleges assault by family over live-in relationship

JAIPUR: A former BJP pradhan from Rajasthans Deeg district, Rachna Jatav, has alleged that she was assaulted by her own family members after they opposed her live-in relationship with a former deputy pradhan from the same party. The 28-year-old woman, who belongs to the Dalit community, is currently undergoing treatment at RBM Hospital in Bharatpur. In an interaction with the media, Rachna asserted that she had served as the pradhan from the BJP in the Kama Panchayat Samiti between 2017 and 2020. She said she left her family in 2021 and moved to Alwar, where she began living with former deputy pradhan Budhram Yadav (30). About a year and a half ago, the couple shifted to Kaman town and began living in a rented accommodation on Kosi Road. Rachna claims she is also continuing her studies. In her statement to the media, she said, On Sunday, my father, mother, and four brothers suddenly came to my residence. I was alone at the time. They asked me to come home with them, and when I refused, they started beating me. They hit my head against the wall and struck my leg with a stone. My family wants me to return and get married. Neighbours reportedly intervened upon hearing the commotion and later informed Budhram, who took Rachna to the hospital. Meanwhile, her father Girraj Jatav has lodged a separate complaint, claiming that he was en route to a condolence meeting in Uttar Pradesh when he saw his daughter with Budhram Yadav near a marriage home. He said he questioned her presence there, as she was supposed to be in Alwar for her studies. Girraj alleged that Budhram attacked him and hurled casteist slurs during the confrontation. Despite the incident, Rachna Jatav has not yet filed an official police complaint in the matter.

'7 Careers Ruined, Dhoni To Be Sacked...': Yograj Exposes Ex-BCCI Selectors

The high-profile Test series whitewashes to England and Australia in 2011 and 2012 saw the phasing out of several stalwarts of Team India.

Kamala Harris election results: What the accused voting machine company says and the changes it made

Questions arise about the integrity of the 2024 US elections. Pro V&V, a lab, faces accusations of altering voting machines before Kamala Harris's victory. Updates were made without public notice. These changes included printer replacements and ballot box modifications. Watchdog groups raise concerns about potential malware risks. A lawsuit seeks a hand recount.

Patch your Windows PC now before bootkit malware takes it over - here's how

The flaw is able to skirt past your usual security protection and evade detection, but Microsoft has a patch.

Install this Windows patch ASAP before bootkit malware takes over your PC - here's how

The flaw is able to skirt past your usual security protection and evade detection, but Microsoft has a patch.

Bold move to trust a young leader: Vaughan on Gill

New Delhi, June 9: Former England captain Michael Vaughan feels that appointing the 25-year-old Shubman Gill as Indias Test captain, ahead of the five-Test series against England, is a bold move following the retirements of stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from the red-ball format. Gill will lead India in their first assignment of the [] The post Bold move to trust a young leader: Vaughan on Gill appeared first on The Shillong Times .