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.
Traditions are like rivers, they always find a way to keep flowing. Over the ages, Kathak has demonstrated malleability like no other tradition and the credit for this also goes to the practitioners who have shown grit and grace in times of adversities. This has evolved Kathak and it has freed it also from many shackles of its original construct. I reached out to Vidha Lal, a ravishing Kathak dancer, to learn more on how a presentation of Kathak can be best enjoyed. Our conversations begins with Vidha, reminiscing on some of her own experiences of the dance form. My earliest memory of Kathak was when my father had taken me to a Birla temple where I saw a group presentation by Smt Uma Sharma. I was only six when I witnessed the performance, but it had a lasting impact on me. It was magical! While as a six-year-old the costumes created the necessary first impression, but today if I were to recollect and analyse why that presentation of Kathak captivated me, then I would attribute it to the synchronised movements of the dancers. At that time, I could never tell one from the other; everyone looked the same, everyone danced well, she recalls. Dance has an innate ability to spread joy and cheer. But an important lesson to take away from Vidhas narration of her experience is that to be a good rasika , it is required to identify with all aspects of the artiste, including their vulnerability during abhinaya , their joy during movements, their focus while executing a rhythm, their imaginative capacity while recreating elements as profound as creation with merely footwork, gestures and gaze. The beauty of the Indian classical dance forms is also how it allows the mind construct within everybody in the audience to create an imaginary realm suspended from their own subjective reality that allows them to travel and extend their self to experience the infinite nothingness. Of course, such an experience for the audience is possible only when the artist succeeds in expanding her inner self to recreating a glimpse of unseen designs of nature. If a rasika experiences even one such rich possibility, it is enough to elevate the potential of eyes from seeing to perceiving above and beyond the physical realm. In the case of Vidha, who was just a child, all these elements got imprinted in her deeply that she decided then and there that she would become a Kathak dancer. Sitara Devi Recalling her other memorable experience of Kathak presentation, Vidha shares a bewitching performance of a legend, Sitara Devi with Kishan Maharaj on tabla. When I was a student of Kathak Kendra, I was exposed to a lot of Kathak and I love their annual festivals as, on those occasions, Kathak dancers who are stalwarts were paired with tabla maestros from another city or lineage. As a student, I got to see the true possibilities of on-the-spot improvisations. Also, in didi s dance there is a gay abandon: when she dances the nrtta (pure dance), she transcends the feminine realm!, she says. Improvisations in Indian classical forms allow freedom of expression wherein the artists talent, rigour, originality and intuition all synthesise and come together. The improvisation employed is not merely random or free-form; rather, they are structured on-the-spot within an established framework of melody or rhythm. This interplay between freedom and structure gives room for the artists to push boundaries to explore the form, its scope, and their own potential. The interplay that the audience witnesses between the lead artist and the accompanying artist is also what creates an excitement in them for being part of the synergy. Usually their delight is heard as sabhash, wah wah, or bravo. The synergy that Sitara Devi exuberates spills over as an overcast; for, her dance has a vibe that will penetrate every audiences heart leaving an impression that will inevitably dawn on what it truly means to enjoy ultimate beauty. Her dance will create raptures that the audience will leave spellbound. Such an experience a rasika feels is called sthamba . In fact, Vidha herself has a virtuosity, artistry and finesse that would leave any audience intoxicated in want of a little more. Vidhas Kathak presentation has an agility that matches the fiery elements of nature. During the vilambith (slow tempo), when she combines the footwork and limb with the nazaron ka tehraav (delayed pause with the eyes), she would stoke the orange hues of fire, binding her audience with her gaze. In contrast, every time she lands during a tihai (the end of a rhythmic frill), she would be like a phoenix diving down perishing into the dark blues hues of the light. As the tempo of the presentation picks up to drut laya , she becomes the yellow flames, herself levitating, setting the stage on fire. When the mood of the presentation shifts from nrtta to the soft srinagar , her portrayals of love would kindle a passion akin to the redness of the heart in her rasika .
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.
Kerala police plan to expand K9 squad with 38 additions
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state police will soon add more teeth to its canine unit, better known as the K9 squad, by drafting 38 dogs of various breeds, with nearly half of the new additions intended to be used for detecting explosives and narcotics. An expert committee will take a final call on the proposal that has been submitted by the State Dog Training School to the State Police Headquarters and the state police chief, sources said. The K9 squad currently has 142 active dogs and the proposal, if accepted in its entirety, will augment the strength to 180. Suman B S, veterinary surgeon of the K9 squad, said the primary focus will be on procuring German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois, which are known for their agility and intelligence. However, with the number of Labradors gradually declining, we are also prioritising them along with Golden Retrievers as second-preference breeds, Suman said. The plan is to purchase 12 trackers, 17 explosive sniffers, six narcotic sniffers, two cadaver dogs and one alcohol sniffer. The procurement will be made from central government institutions, such as CRPF, SSB, and BSF. The police department used to purchase dogs from private kennels, but later did away with the practice to avoid buying mediocre pups. The decision to depend on central government institutions fared well as it ensured good-pedigree and proper working class dogs. Sources said that each dog is expected to cost Rs 35,000-50,000, depending upon pedigree and physical traits. The plan to purchase narcotic sniffer dogs holds significance as it conveys the intent of the department to use canines to detect contraband while its trafficked via rail and road. The K9 squad already has 33 narcotic sniffers and the addition of six more dogs would beef up the wing. The chief ministers office had also shown interest in using police dogs to detect drugs. The most recent purchase made for the K9 squad was in 2023. The department then acquired eight German Shepherds from SSBs Alwar breeding centre.
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.
Punjab minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond assures revamp of Talwara bus stand.
Running until July 13, the exhibition features over 40 artists across genres, schools, and regions. The Hyderabad edition offers a particularly compelling representation of regional stalwarts whose nuanced palettes and expressive forms resonate deeply with the citys discerning audience.
RRBMU Result 2025 Released at univindia.org Direct Link to Download UG and 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 B.A, M.SC UG and PG Course Results Online.
World Malayalee Council Ushers in New Era with Inspiring Leadership
Joining him at the forefront is Baby Mathew Somatheeram, the newly elected Global President and a stalwart of Keralas tourism industry The World Malayalee Council (WMC) has entered a transformative chapter as its newly elected global office bearers for the 20252027 term took charge in a ceremonial swearing-in held at the Corniche Hotel in Sharjah. The occasion marked not just a leadership transition, but a renewed commitment to WMCs core vision of connecting minds, building global networks, and empowering Malayalees worldwide through unity, purpose, and service. At the helm of this dynamic new team is Dr. Isaac John Pattaniparambil, a
RRBMU Result 2025 Released at univindia.org Direct Link to Download UG 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 B.A UG Course Results Online.
Weddings in India are rarely just about two people. Theyre about the families of the bride and groom, friends who form WhatsApp groups, and relatives who havent spoken in decades but decide to show up for complaints and compliments. There are customs to be followed, uncles and aunts to satisfy, and numerous ceremonies to perform. But, in the end, those two or three days of functions call for dance and fun among friends and cousins. Now imagine a scenario where there is a celebration without the chaos, the commitments, the customs, and most surprisingly without a couple. But you get to dress up in all your fineries, dance to the beats, and enjoy the feast. This is Fake Sangeet. Across the globe, the trend, which started in Dubai, is gaining traction among Gen Z and millennials, who crave energy and cultural richness without the financial burden and relatives asking you to slow down. After garnering attention in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, the trend made its way to the city ten days ago, as Chennai hosted its first Fake Sangeet at Noci Cafe in Express Avenue. A gathering of 400 people, mostly in their teens and 20s sipping on strawberry mojitos, glammed up in ethnic attire, danced, sang, and feasted as if at a close cousins wedding. Get on your feet The Chennai edition was organised by Vivah Viral, a wedding organising company run by a trio of 20-year-olds Misha, Khushi, and Thavina. We wanted people to experience weddings with friends, with no pressure, says Misha. Inspired by reels from Mumbai-based brands like Saddi Galli and Jumma Ki Raat, the team decided to experiment with it in Chennai. Initially, we werent sure about it. We were bouncing back and forth, but when we got sponsors and support, we just went for it, says Misha. The team, without an extended crew, handled everything themselves, from ticketing and promotions to the DJ, decor, and venue. It took us about a month to put together the event. We divided the work among the three of usGenerally, most Sangeets happen in an open space, so we were looking for such a venue and landed on Noci at the Express Avenue, she says. Given the venues existing vibrance and aesthetic ambience, the cost of decor was subsequently reduced. Unlike in the North, the event here was alcohol free, and the team intended to keep it open to all age groups, without any language barrier. The evening began with a live guitarist, followed by games led by an emcee, and eventually turned into a DJ night until the rain joined as an uninvited guest. Yet, it didnt keep the guests off the dance floor. The traditional dhols came to the rescue. We had to stop the DJ due to the rain and electricity fluctuations, but we had dhols play for the rest of the night, and people just kept dancing in the rain. It actually became the most enjoyed part of the night, says Misha. For Zenil Sunil Gada, an undergraduate student, the experience was unlike anything hed seen in the city. It felt fresh, fun, and something Chennai hadnt seen before. The vibe was chaotic and desi exactly what I was hoping for, he says. The mehendi station, the food, the dhol , everything felt like a real wedding. And the rain made it unforgettable. Engineering student Saurav Mishra from Mumbai was equally impressed. The dhol completely stole the show. From the moment it started, everyone hit the dance floor, he says. It was better than a regular party, it had that extra desi energy. The ticket for the event was priced at `1,499 which included unlimited food. The wedding-grade feast had everything from welcome drinks to starters like chilli paneer and crispy potato butterflies, to mains and desserts like eggless chocolate truffle cake to satisfy the sweet cravings. And then, there were the extras that added Sangeet vibe free mehendi stations, glitter booths, and, of course, dhol to grab the attention of mall-goers, resulting in walk-ins. The trend, trends Now the trend is making inroads to Coimbatore too. A large-scale Fake Sangeet is being hosted by YOLO Ventures in collaboration with Warehouse on July 19. At YOLO Ventures, were always looking for ways to reimagine nightlife, says Yuvraj Singh Rathore, managing director of YOLO Ventures. Just like Misha and her team, the inspiration for Yuvraj also came from Saddi Galli. And when I got invited to Bangalores version, it clicked why not in Coimbatore? He says the trend resonates especially with Millennials and Gen Z. Everyone loves the energy, outfits, music, and drama of a real Sangeet, even if they arent attending an actual wedding. So we thought, why not throw one, minus the marriage? It started as a fun experiment and ended up striking a cultural chord. The Coimbatore edition promises even more wedding-like details: choreographed flash mobs, photobooths, mehendi counters, DIY tote bag stations, and a dedicated dance floor designed to mimic a real wedding after-party. The biggest challenge, Yuvraj admits, is making it believable and not cringey. Weve put in a lot of effort to make it feel authentic. Back in Chennai, Vivah Viral is already working on its next event: The Big Fat Indian Wedding, scheduled for July 18 at Secret Story, Nungambakkam. Itll be similar to Fake Sangeet, but on a bigger scale, says Misha. Were calling in DJs from other cities, and the vibe will be more immersive. Whether its about dressing up in that dream midnight blue sari paired with a strappy black sequins blouse just like Naina Talwar from Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani or dancing freestyle yet synchronised with friends just like in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara , the Fake Sangeet is a strange but deeply appealing find of the year. As Zenil says, Not everyone gets invited to a grand Indian wedding. Now everyone can experience it...without any of the pressure. If 2024 was the year of cinema and disco-themed parties, 2025 could be the year when the world showed up to a wedding where, as Vivah Virals invite read: no rishtedaar, no drama, just vibes. For details about upcoming Fake Sangeet events in Chennai, visit @vivahviral in Instagram
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.
120,000 fake sites fuel Amazon Prime Day scams
Amazon Prime Day shoppers face threats from 120,000-plus scam websites as cybercriminals prepare phishing traps and malware ahead of the July sales event.
RRBMU Result 2025 Released at univindia.org Direct Link to Download UG and PG Courses 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 B.Sc/B.A/B.Com/M.Com UG and PG Courses Results Online.
North Korean Hackers Use NimDoor macOS Malware to Target Web3, Crypto Platforms
North Korean hackers are reportedly deploying NimDoor malware against Mac computers in Web3 and crypto companies. The threat actors rely on bash scripts to exfiltrate sensitive data, including browser information, iCloud Keychain credentials, and Telegram user data. Like other attacks linked to DPRK threat actors, these also leverage social engineering via chat platforms and malicious scripts or updates to compromise target computers.
Remembering Vechoor Harihara Subramania Iyer, a stoic stalwart of Carnatic music
Let your work speak for itself. In todays PR-driven world, this adage may seem misplaced. But on June 7, its impact was felt. Gathered at Bharat Bhavan in Thiruvananthapuram was a hall full of Carnatic music practitioners, aficionados, and experts. The event marked the inauguration of the centenary celebrations of Vechoor Harihara Subramania Iyer, one of Keralas Carnatic doyens, who lived at Valiyasala Agraharam in the capital city. Vechoor resided for several years in Valiyasalas tranquil premises, where he taught music to generations of students. Many of them went on to become stalwarts of Carnatic music, such as Aswathi Thirunal Rama Varma, Neyyattinkara Vasudevan, Ambika Devi and Vaikom Venugopal. Some shone bright in the world of cinema as well, like K J Yesudas and M G Radhakrishnan. Vechoor Harihara Subramania Iyer. A few of these students, along with their disciples and families, assembled at Bharat Bhavan which, incidentally, was once home to Vechoors guru, Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer, before it became the cultural centre. Among those present was 84-year-old Kumara Kerala Varma, probably his oldest living student. He recalled his gurus house at Vechoor in Vaikom, Kottayam. The place is now world-renowned for its indigenous breed of dwarf cows but, in Carnatic circles, its better known for its homestead of Sasthampattu singers, a lineage of ritual performers during the Mandala season and at Ayyappa shrines. I started training under Vechoor sir when I was 12. He was in Tiruvalla then. Later, during school breaks, I would go to his house in Vechoor for two months to deepen my learning. The experience was priceless, Kerala Varma reminisces. An old group photograph taken at RLV College, Tripunithura, during the tenure of Vechoor (seated front row, fifth from the left) as assistant professor. Standing in the third row, fourth from the left, is young K J Yesudas. Our days would start early with music, and then I would go around and take dips in the ponds nearby. His house was in a Brahmin agraharam, but we were treated like hosts, not guests. There always used to be music in that house. Notably, it was Kerala Varma who introduced Vechoor to Kowdiar Palace where a 14-year-old prince awaited lessons from him. But before he could be appointed as tutor, Vechoor had to undergo scrutiny from Amma Maharani, the royal matriarch revered for her refined musical sensibilities. The recommendation came from none other than Semmangudi. The lessons were mostly in Amma Maharanis chamber, under her watchful eye. I remember how I was taughtwith him singing a note and me following it, recalls Aswathi Thirunal Rama Varma. The modest 'Vechoor House' at Valiasala in Thiruvananthapuram. If I made a mistake, he would make me practise the part nonstop until I got it right. I didnt take the classes seriously until I was probably in Class 10. That was the time when an internal spark ignited a passion. I found in him not just answers to my musical quest but a friendship, a camaraderie that lasted until he passed away in 1994. Rama Varma notes that the eighth day of the Navarathri concerts is based on the Nattakurinji raga, which demands a deep grasp of Carnatic techniques. Vechoor sir was known for this. His command of technicalities was profound, and he taught with equal rigour, he recalls. What mesmerised me was his patience and peaceful demeanour. Never once did he appear shaken. As a performer, I often feel he wasnt given his due he received only three awards, though he was worthy of much more. He never chased recognition, nor did he seek out concerts. I have even seen some of his disciples usurp concerts that were meant for him. But he remained undeterred focused solely on music and its transmission. 14-year-old Prince Rama Varma being trained by Vechoor. For popular singer B Arundhati, Vechoor was a treasure trove of knowledge. Though not a full-time disciple, she remembers learning several krithis from him. I was in college when I went to learn about Swati Thirunals Navavidha Bhakthi Krithikal, which Vechoor sir used to teach at the Swathi Thirunal Sangeetha Sabha. He was a scholarly musician and an exceptional teacher, she recalls. I have attended many of his katcheris. They would be perfect, with no mixing of styles. He learnt under Semmangudi, but was also inspired by GNB (G N Balasubramaniam). From these influences, he evolved his own style one that stayed true to tradition. He never violated boundaries, but within them, took music to dizzying heights. He was a master at singing and teaching alike. A true karma yogi who never chased fame. Vechoors family still resides at the modest Vechoor House in Valiyasala. His descendants remain connected to music, but do not flaunt the legacy tag. I was taught by him when I was very young. He was never partial, and didnt force me to learn either. I chose to learn from him, and later from Kumara Kerala Varma, his disciple, says H Ratnaprabha, his granddaughter and a musician based in Chennai. She too remembers her grandfather as a silent, stoic, and dignified presence who chiselled his art to perfection without ever seeking rewards. He never sought recognition. His focus was on the art alone. He only taught, she says. There was little remembrance of him outside his disciples until his 25th death anniversary, when a memorial concert was organised. Now, a foundation has been formed that is actively working to preserve his memory for future generations. Inauguration of Vechoor Harihara Subramania Iyers centenary celebrations on June 7 in Thiruvananthapuram by Kumara Kerala Varma, his oldest living disciple. B S Sekhar, treasurer of the Vechoor Harihara Subramania Iyer Foundation, elaborates on the initiative. I used to accompany him to concerts as a teenager, though it was towards the latter part of his life. The next generation needs to understand the quality he upheld. We are in the process of collecting his works from various sources. We are also using social media to document his life and art. A book is in the works too, he says. His disciples note that even just minutes before his death, Vechoor sir was preparing to teach a student a moment that, in hindsight, encapsulates his life. It was utter surrender to the art that made his music flawless. Thats why he never had a good or bad day at work. He was blemishless as a musician and a teacher. This is what they want to convey to the world: that the cultural ethos of our land has been shaped by the emphatic, presence of people like their beloved Vechoor sir. His legacy, they chorus, continues to speak long after he is gone.
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.
AI under attack: New malware tricks AI security tools
The malware embedded natural-language text into the code that was designed to influence AI models into misclassifying it as benign
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 .
Journalism stalwart Dasu Krishnamoorty turns 100 today
Hailing from a family of journalists, Krishnamoorty belonged to the first batch of journalism students at Osmania University in 1954-55
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.
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
Chennai power cut today, June 24: From Pallavaram to Adyar & more, check full list
Planned maintenance will cause a temporary power outage in several areas on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The disruption will affect Guindy, Pallavaram, Adyar, KK Nagar, Porur, Alwarthirunagar, and Tambaram, including specific streets and colonies within these regions. Power will be restored earlier if the maintenance concludes ahead of schedule.
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
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.
Matt Gaetz educational qualification: From law school to MAGA stalwart
Matt Gaetz, a Republican from Florida, rose from a legal background and state politics to national prominence in Congress. Known for his strong conservative views and support of Donald Trump, Gaetz served on the House Armed Services Committee and played a key role in ousting Speaker Kevin McCarthy. After leaving Congress in 2025, he transitioned to media as a host on One America News Network, where he continues to influence political discourse with sharp legal and political analysis.
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
Iran threatens U.S: Analysts warn of potential sneak attack by Tehran on America as tensions soar
Amid escalating tensions, cybersecurity experts warn of potential Iranian cyberattacks targeting critical American infrastructure. Banks, hospitals, and power grids are vulnerable, with malware possibly already embedded in U.S. systems. While a complete collapse is unlikely, Americans are advised to strengthen their online security and prepare for short-term disruptions.
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.
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 .
Panel to track dark patterns, e-commerce platforms told to conduct self-audits
NEW DELHI: The Central Consumer Protection Authority had issued an advisory to e-commerce platforms to conduct self-audits within three months to detect dark patterns and take necessary steps to ensure its resolution. In order to identify and eradicate dark patterns, the government has constituted a Joint Working Group (JWG) and advised e-commerce platforms to comply with Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Dark Patterns, 2023. The e-commerce platforms, based on the self-audit reports, have also encouraged to give self-declarations that their platform is not indulging in any dark patterns. The self-declarations by the platforms will enable fair digital ecosystem along with building trust between consumers and e-commerce platforms, a government release said. A dark pattern refers to a deceptive design technique employed in user interfaces that misleads users or coerces them into making unintended choices. This practice undermines consumer autonomy, decision-making, and overall choice. The government has so far specified 13 dark patterns, namely: false urgency, basket sneaking, confirm shaming, forced action, subscription trap, interface interference, bait and switch, drip pricing, disguised advertisements and nagging, trick wording, saas billing and rogue malwares. The Department of Consumers Affairs has constituted a JWG comprising representatives from concerned Ministries, regulators, voluntary consumer organisations and NLUs. The group shall update the department also suggest appropriate awareness programmes for awaring the consumers.
Telangana HC Tells Alwar Ul Uloom Biz College to Issue Student Papers
Justice Laxmi Narayana Alishetty of the Telangana High Court, sitting in the vacation court, directed Anwar Ul Uloom College of Business Management to immediately release the original educational certificates of a former student after allegedly being denied on several occasions.
I Think It's The Right Move: Ponting on Gill's Test Captaincy
India will be without stalwarts Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravichandran Ashwin, who all retired recently, and pacer Mohammed Shami when they begin their five-Test tour of England on June 20.
Team India lands in UK for five-Test series against England
London, Jun 7: The Indian cricket team has arrived in the United Kingdom for its much-anticipated five-match Test series against England, starting later this month. The series is part of the 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship cycle. Team India departed for the UK from Mumbai on Friday night. A new-look Indian side will be led by newly-appointed skipper Shubman Gill, marking the beginning of a new era following the recent retirements of stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Several Indian [] The post Team India lands in UK for five-Test series against England appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Female patient in ICU allegedly raped in Rajasthans Alwar; nursing staff under investigation
JAIPUR: A case of sexual assault has emerged from the ESIC Medical College Hospital in the MIA area of Alwar, where a female patient admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) was allegedly raped by a nursing staff member. According to reports, the incident took place around 1:30 am on the night of June 4. The 32-year-old victim had been admitted to the hospital on June 2 for a tube operation and was shifted to the ICU following the procedure on June 4. Station House Officer (SHO) Ajit Badsara stated that the victims husband complained, alleging that after his wife was moved to the ICU, a security guard removed her from the room around 11 pm, after which a nursing staff member entered. The victim, who was semi-conscious due to the effects of anesthesia and medication, informed her husband the next dayJune 5that she had been sexually assaulted during the night. She alleged that the nursing staff drew the curtains and exploited her condition, leaving her unable to resist or call for help. On June 6, the victim reported the incident to Dr Deepika, a staff doctor at the hospital. The accused employee reportedly confessed when confronted. Dean of ESIC Medical College, Dr Asim Das, confirmed that an internal administrative inquiry committee has been constituted. We are cooperating fully with the police investigation. An internal probe is also underway, he said. An FIR has been registered at the MIA police station, and the matter is under investigation.
Patient raped in ICU of Rajasthan hospital by nursing staffer
In Alwar, a shocking incident occurred at ESIC Medical College where a 32-year-old woman, recovering from a tubectomy in the surgical ICU, was allegedly raped by a nursing staff member. Following the husband's complaint and the woman's disclosure, police have registered a case, and the accused, Subhash Ghithala, has been barred from the hospital.
Lets Talk Data Breach: Real Risks and Simple Steps to Stay Safe Online
How infostealing malware can steal your login credentials and what you can do about it.
Rajasthan Shocker! Alwar man commits suicide over bank loan harassment
A 40-year-old man in Alwar district of Rajasthan took his own life by hanging himself allegedly due to harassment over a bank loan, police said.
Man poses as govt officials online to extort money in Hyderabad; held
Hyderabad: A 19-year-old man has been arrested by Hyderabad cybercrime police on Wednesday, June 4, for allegedly impersonating top government officials online and defrauding people by soliciting money. The accused has been identified as Arbaj Khan from Alwar, Rajasthan. He allegedly created multiple fake Facebook and WhatsApp profiles using photographs of senior IAS, IPS, and 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 .
The 18 year long wait is over. The moment of reckoning for master batsman, RCB stalwart, mainstay and former skipper Virat Kohli has arrived for the Jersey No.18. The number is 18. The standing with RCB is 18 years. The wait ended in the 18th ...
Joy as tigress at Sariska gives birth to four cubs
JAIPUR: To the delight of tiger lovers in Rajasthan, a tigress in Sariska National Park has given birth to four cubs. With this, the total number of tigers in the park has risen to 49. Nearly two decades ago, all tigers in Sariska had been poached and the park was left without a single big cat. This is now the third time in recent years that a tigress has given birth to four cubs. The tigress, known as ST-19, welcomed her four cubs in the Bareilly Badi area of Sariska Buffer Zone in Alwar. This marks the first time that four cubs have been born together in the buffer zone, which houses seven tigers and tigresses. Currently, there are a total of 11 tigers, tigresses and cubs in the buffer zone. The rise in number of tigers is also expected to boost tourism in the area, State Forest Minister Sanjay Sharma shared this information on social media. The reserve stretches over a core tiger habitat area of 881 km sq and 322.23 km sq of buffer area making it a total of 1203.34 km sq area of tiger reserve. After it was found in January 2005 that there were no tigers left in Sariska, the big cat was reintroduced through government efforts. New litter pushes count to 49 With this new addition, the total number of tigers in the park has risen to 49. This is now the third time in recent years that a tigress has given birth to a litter of four cubs.
HMWSSB Warns Citizens Against Fake WhatsApp Messages and Malware Scam
HMWSSB emphasized that all official communications are issued only through authorized and verified channels.
Sunil Bharti Mittal Wants CII To Get More Engaged With One Nation One Election
Telecom stalwart and Bharti Group Chairman Sunil Mittal on Thursday expressed his strong support for 'One Nation, One Election' as he asserted that frequent elections impact the economy and hinder decisions.
Naruto, One Piece, Demon Slayer fans watch out for exclusive episodes and leaked scenes. Heres why
Cybercriminals are exploiting Gen Z's love for anime and popular streaming platforms to spread malware. Kaspersky reports over 251,000 attempts using titles like Naruto, Demon Slayer, and Attack on Titan. Scams also target streaming services like Netflix, luring users with promises of free content, highlighting the need for online vigilance.
Plans to counter Dark Patterns used by online platforms soon
NEW DELHI: Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution, Prahlad Joshi has instructed all e-commerce companies to conduct self-audits to analyse and eliminate Dark Patterns to comply with consumer protection regulations. This directive follows a stakeholder meeting held in Delhi. There has been a notable increase in consumer complaints regarding Dark Patterns reported on the National Consumer Helpline, which prompted the minister to take action. The stakeholder meeting aimed to develop more effective strategies to address manipulative design practices used by digital platforms. Joshi also proposed the formation of a joint working group to educate e-commerce companies about these issues. A Dark Pattern refers to a deceptive design technique employed in user interfaces (such as web pages) that misleads users or coerces them into making unintended choices. This practice undermines consumer autonomy, decision-making, and overall choice. Some examples of dark patterns include making it difficult for consumers to understand or cancel transactions, and employing features like infinite scrolling, autoplay videos, or constant notifications. Government has identified 13 specific dark patterns. The Department of Consumer Affairs on Wednesday convened the meeting representatives of all stakeholders, including major e-commerce companies such as Amazon, Swiggy, Flipkart, Zomato, MakeMyTrip, Meta, WhatsApp, Ola, and Apple, as well as industry associations, Voluntary Consumer Organisations, and National Law Universities, for a talk on eliminating deceptive online practices. The government has already developed detailed guidelines to address Dark Patterns. He urged all companies to fully comply with the guidelines and integrate them into their internal governance and consumer protection mechanisms. Recently, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) issued a notice to taxi and bike aggregator companies Uber and Rapido for allegedly pressuring users to pay a tip in advance for faster service. Joshi stated that such practices are considered unfair trade and must be stopped. He emphasised that tipping should be optional, with consumers deciding the amount based on their service experience. After an online survey in 392 districts and consulting 2.30 lakh consumers, LocalCircles, which raises consumer awareness, reports that Edtech, Travel, Airlines, eCommerce, Quick Commerce, Online Banking & Payments, taxi Apps, and OTT platforms have reported highest number of Dark Patterns. Deceptive practices False Urgency Basket Sneaking Confirm Shaming Forced Action Nagging Bait and Switch Subscription Trap Hidden Cost Disguised Ads Interface Interferences SAAS billing Trick Questions Rogue Malware
This Day In 1996: AB Vajpayee Ends 13-Day Rule With Satta Ka Khel Speech
Exactly 29 years ago, on May 28, 1996, BJP stalwart Atal Bihari Vajpayee resigned as Prime Minister after just 13 days in power when his government lost the majority in the Lok Sabha.
Gill pads up for captaincy innings
The Punjab batters first challenge is the tour of England without three stalwarts of the Test team; how he runs the ship when his side is in the field will provide some indication of what the future holds for India
Rohit, Virat and Ashwin Have Given Us Blueprint to Win Away Tests: Gill
The first assignment for the 25-year-old is a five-Test series in England starting next month where he won't have stalwarts like Kohli and Rohit in the line-up.
Not OTP or links, but hackers now use WhatsApp images for fraud; Check details here
A new WhatsApp image scam is targeting smartphone users. Hackers are hiding malware inside image files. Opening these images can lead to data theft and financial loss. A Jabalpur resident lost 2 lakh. The Department of Telecom has issued a warning. Experts advise caution and security measures. WhatsApp is planning updates to combat this threat.
Rohit, Virat and Ashwin have given us blueprint to win Tests away from home: Gill
Mumbai, May 25: Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli had very contrasting styles of leadership but the two iconic players along with spinner Ravichandran Ashwin have given the Indian team the blueprint to win Test series away from home, says new skipper Shubman Gill. Gill was on Saturday appointed Indias captain in Tests. The first assignment for the 25-year-old is a five-Test series England where he wont have stalwarts like Kohli and Rohit in the line-up. (The) guys like Rohit bhai, [] The post Rohit, Virat and Ashwin have given us blueprint to win Tests away from home: Gill appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Shoes are big to fill but an opportunity for others: Agarkar on retirements of Kohli, Rohit
Mumbai, May 24: Chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar on Saturday conceded that the void left by the Test retirement of premier cricketers Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma is tough to fill, but hoped that other players will step up during the upcoming tour of England. Rohit was the first to announce to retirement from Test cricket on May 7, while his long-time teammate Kohli followed the suit on May 12. When guys like that retire, they are stalwarts of cricketit [] The post Shoes are big to fill but an opportunity for others: Agarkar on retirements of Kohli, Rohit appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
The United States has indicted Rustam Rafailevich Gallyamov from Moscow. He led a global cybercrime group using Qakbot malware. This malware hit many, from dentists to factories. The Justice Department seized over $24 million in cryptocurrency. This money will go back to the victims. Gallyamov's network was disrupted in 2023, but he continued. The FBI seized bitcoins and USDT tokens.
PAPs Indian-origin stalwarts retain crucial ministries in Singapores new cabinet
SINGAPORE, May 21: Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Wednesday named his new cabinet, with Indian-origin Peoples Action Party (PAP) stalwarts continuing to hold crucial ministries in critical positions. Wongs PAP scored a landslide win in the May 3 general elections held in the global-tariff hit and tense trade environment. The new cabinet marks a significant reshuffle, which includes three coordinating ministers and confirms Gan Kim Yong as the sole deputy prime minister. It also features 15 full ministers and [] The post PAPs Indian-origin stalwarts retain crucial ministries in Singapores new cabinet appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
What is Lumma Stealer? The malware that infected over 394,000 Windows PCs worldwide
Microsoft, in collaboration with international law enforcement, dismantled Lumma Stealer, a potent malware that compromised over 394,000 Windows computers. The operation seized 1,300 malicious domains and disrupted the malware's command structure. Lumma Stealer, sold on underground forums, was favored for its ease of use and data theft capabilities, posing a significant threat to global digital infrastructure.
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma criticises Gaurav Gogois Pakistan visit, alleging links to ISI, vows to reveal evidence on September 10
How Pak spy 'Sejal Kapoor' scored 98 Indian targets
Jyoti Malhotra's arrest highlights ISI's honeytrap tactics. 'Sejal Kapoor' compromised many targets using a fake identity. She used malware to access officials' computers. A BrahMos engineer, Nishant Agarwal, was also a victim. He shared classified information with ISI. These incidents reveal a larger intelligence operation. ISI uses social media to trap individuals. This poses a significant security threat to India.
Chhagan Bhujbal, OBC stalwart who kept himself relevant amid changes in Maharashtra politics
Chhagan Bhujbal, a veteran Maharashtra politician, has navigated a long and controversial career, from his early days in the Shiv Sena to becoming a prominent OBC leader in the NCP. Despite facing corruption allegations and jail time, he has remained relevant by shifting allegiances and advocating for OBC reservations.
Srinagar Diary | L-G reconstitutes shrine boards in J&K
J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has reconstituted the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) and nominated nine eminent luminaries from various walks of life as members for three years. The members are: Swami Avdheshanand Giri Maharaj, Kailash Mehra Sadhu, KK Sharma, KNRai, Mukesh Garg, Shailesh Raina, Simridhi Bindroo, Suresh Haware and Vishwamurti Shastri. The L-G also reestablished the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board and nominated nine distinguished personalities from different fields as members for the same period of three years. Sudha Murty, Mahamandaleshwar Swami Vishveshvaranand Giriji Maharaj, Ashok Bhan, IPS (Retd.), Baleshwar Rai, IAS (Retd.), Gunjan Rana, KK Talwar, Kulbhushan Ahuja, Lalit Bhasin and Suresh Kumar Sharma are the nominated people. Army destroying unexploded shells After the recent Pakistani shelling during Operation Sindoor, the Army has launched an operation to clear the unexploded shells from the border areas of Poonch and Rajouri. The Army in close coordination with local police authorities, conducted a controlled operation for the safe destruction of 42 unexploded shells in the border areas of Jhullas, Salotri, Dharati and Salani of Poonch district, a defence spokesman said. The remnants of the shells posed a serious threat to the lives and safety of local residents. Govt focussed on peaceful Amarnath yatra In the light of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack significantly affecting the tourism sector, the J&K government is working diligently towards ensuring a peaceful Amarnath yatra beginning on July 3. Expressing concern over the reduced tourist footfall, CM Omar Abdullah said that the tourism has been severely impacted. The summer season is almost over, we are hardly seeing any tourists, he noted. He emphasised that the governments priority is to ensure the Amarnath yatra is incident-free, allowing all pilgrims to return home safely. The yatra will culminate on Raksha Bandhan, which falls on August 9. Fayaz wani Our correspondent in Jammu and Kashmir fayazwani123@gmail.com
Shah Rukh Khan is a born superstar and this throwback album is proof
Amar Talwar and Shah Rukh Khan worked together in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. Talwar recently shared some throwback photos of King Khan on Instagram. The pictures captured candid moments of Shah Rukh Khan enjoying himself with his friends during a train journey from Delhi to Kolkata.
Karunbithil Shibira to celebrate silver jubilee for six days at Nidle from May 20
The annual classical music camps held at Nidle village, near Dharmasthala, have been attracting stalwarts of Carnatic music since its inception in theyear 2000
Operation GHOST SIM: Assam police bust fake SIM card racket with links to Pakistan; seven held
GUWAHATI: Assam Police busted a fake SIM card racket with links to Pakistan and arrested seven persons three from Rajasthan, two from Assam and one each from Telangana and Delhi. During the investigation, the police found that WhatsApp accounts were created by using fraudulent SIM cards with OTPs for activation routed to Pakistan. The SIM cards were used for cybercrimes and anti-India activities. Tipped off by military intelligence about a racket involving fake SIM cards operating with bases in Assam, Rajasthan and Telangana, Assam Police registered a case with the Special Task Force and launched an operation codenamed Operation GHOST SIM. Addressing a press conference on Saturday, Assams Director General of Police, Harmeet Singh said a simultaneous operation was planned in two districts of Assam, one district of Telangana, and two districts of Rajasthan. He said a team was sent to Rajasthan and Telangana while dedicated action teams were formed for Assams Dhubri and Morigaon districts. The operations led to the arrest of seven persons. They were identified as Saddik (47) of Bela of Bharatpur district, Rajasthan; Arif Khan (20) of Sahori Alwar, Rajasthan; Sajid (21) of Sahodi Ka Bar, Sahori, Alwar, Rajasthan; Akeek (25) of Rojki of Bharatpur district, Rajasthan (arrested from Guwahati airport); Arsad Khan (34) of Pendka of Bharatpur, Rajasthan (arrested from New Delhi airport); Mofijul Islam (19) of Bilasipara in Dhubri district, Assam (arrested from Gollapally in Sangareddy district of Telangana) and Jakariya Ahmad (24) of Bilasipara in Dhubri district of Assam. The DGP said 14 others were picked up from different places of Dhubri, and necessary lawful action would be taken after proper interrogation. Altogether, 948 fake SIM cards were also seized. The police advised people against responding to unknown WhatsApp calls.
Nothing stands above nation: Kanpur University terminates MoU with Istanbul University
KANPUR: Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University (CSJMU) has announced the immediate termination of its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Istanbul University, Turkiye, officials said. The decision stems from Turkiye's perceived alignment with nations overtly hostile to India's sovereignty and territorial integrity, according to CSJMU authorities. CSJMU Vice-Chancellor (VC) Vinay Pathak confirmed he has sent a letter to Zulfikar, the Rector of Istanbul University, informing him of the termination. We have informed Istanbul University in writing of the unfortunate but necessary circumstances that the CSJMU formally terminates the MoU recently executed, Pathak stated. Pathak further elaborated, The decision stems directly from the grave geopolitical stance adopted by Turkiye in aligning itself with a nation that is overtly hostile to India's sovereignty and territorial integrity. He asserted, It is our firm belief that an institution associated, directly or tacitly, with a strategic ally of Pakistan cannot continue to be regarded as a credible academic collaborator. The vice-chancellor emphasised that while academic excellence is crucial, othing stands above the nation. Interacting with media persons, the VC explained that the MoU signed in November last year aimed to promote academic and research collaboration as well as faculty exchange. Under the agreement, students were expected to benefit from exposure to international academic standards, joint research initiatives, and innovation-driven programmes. In his letter, Pathak made it clear that CSJMU's international partnerships must align with India's sovereign and strategic interests. MANUU cancels academic MoU with Turkish university over Turkiye's alleged support for Pakistan In his capacity as president of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), Vinay Pathak has also issued an appeal to all fellow VCs and academic leaders across India. He urged them o rise above traditional academic boundaries and take a principled and patriotic stand. Pathak called for an immediate review and, if necessary, suspension or termination of any partnerships, MoUs, exchange programmes, or research ties with universities or institutions in Pakistan, Turkiye, and Bangladesh where there is clear evidence of support for anti-India views or terrorist propaganda. Let us send a resolute and dignified message to the world: India's academic institutions stand united in condemnation of terrorism and in defence of the nation's sovereignty. We will not cooperate with any entity that undermines the integrity of our country or endangers the lives of its people, Pathak said. India's trade relations with Turkiye are also expected to come under strain due to Ankara backing Islamabad and condemning Indian Armed Forces' Operation Sindoor following the Pahalgam terror attack . Indians are also boycotting Turkish goods and cancelling their trips to the West Asian country with online travel platforms, such as EaseMyTrip and Ixigo, issuing advisories against visiting these nations. Turkish apples off the shelves in Alwar's fruit markets as traders join Turkiye boycott call
Turkish Apples Off Shelves In Alwar's Fruit Markets As Traders Join Turkiye Boycott Call
Traders said the decision reflects public sentiment and is aimed at hurting Turkiye's economic interests.
Turkish apples off the shelves in Alwar's fruit markets as traders join Turkiye boycott call
Traders in Alwar, Rajasthan, have joined a nationwide boycott of Turkish products, particularly Turkish apples, in response to Turkiye's support for Pakistan during India's military strikes on terror camps. The Fruit Mandi Union in Alwar has stopped selling Turkish apples, which typically arrive in Rajasthan in large quantities between March and June.
There'll Be Few Fans Concerned, But Let's Not Panic: Manjrekar on Ro-Ko Test Exit
Within the span of a week, two modern-day stalwarts-- Kohli and Rohit have bid adieu to Test cricket, prompting concerns about India's red-ball future.
No need to panic after Ro-Ko retirement, says Manjrekar
New Delhi, May 15: Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar feels there is no need to panic following the twin retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, drawing parallels with how Indian cricket bounced back after the legendary Fab Four stepped away from the longest format. Within the span of a week, two modern-day stalwarts Kohli and Rohit have bid adieu to Test cricket, prompting concerns about Indias red-ball future. Manjrekar drew comparison to the time when Indian cricket saw the exits [] The post No need to panic after Ro-Ko retirement, says Manjrekar appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
