6-Month-Old Baby Loses Finger During IV Drip Removal In Bengaluru, Case Filed
The complainant alleged that the injury caused severe pain to the child, who was immediately rushed to the emergency ward, where the wound was dressed.
Six-month-old baby's finger chopped during discharge at private hospital in Bengaluru
The Indiranagar police registered an FIR charging the nurse, doctor and hospital management under Section 125(b) (acts that endanger human life or personal safety through rash or negligent behaviour) of BNS
ABVP alleges Azim Premji University promoting J&K secession, stages protest
Bengaluru: The ABVP on Tuesday, February 24, staged a demonstration against city-based Azim Premji University, alleging that an event at the institution was promoting separatism and secession of Jammu and Kashmir and an insult to the Indian Army. The institution denied the programme was held. Raising slogans, activists of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad smeared 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 .
Housekeeping Staff Pose As GST Officers, Scam Bengaluru Traders
Two housekeeping employees, working at a Central Government GST office, posed as Intelligence Officers and ran an extortion racket targeting city traders before being caught in Bengaluru.
Fire breaks out in hardware shop at Kumbarpet in Bengaluru, no casualty reported
The incident occurred around 9 a.m.
Sumit Mittal's path to success was not easy. He faced exam failures and financial hardship. Mittal worked in a call centre and taught few students. He later achieved a top rank in NIMCET and studied at premier institutions. Today, he is a Bengaluru-based founder and mentor. His story shows that setbacks do not define one's future.
Meet the man who is credited with turning Bengaluru into a pink paradise
Bengaluru's streets are now adorned with beautiful pink flowers. These blooms come from Tabebuia rosea trees, introduced by forester S.G. Neginhal. His initiative in the 1980s significantly increased the city's green cover. Neginhal's work ensured saplings survived challenges, leading to a more vibrant urban environment. His legacy continues to flourish each spring.
24-Hour Water Supply Halt In East And South Bengaluru: Check Affected Areas
While pumping is scheduled to resume at 6:00 AM on Friday, the board has clarified that it may take several additional hours for water pressure to normalize in the pipes.
Bengaluru-based Rightfit founder Sumit Singh revealed a job seeker with two years of experience secured a 13 lakh monthly remote role. This placement, the highest in the company's history, highlights the platform's focus on tangible proof of work over resumes. Singh aims to facilitate even more lucrative opportunities for high-performing candidates.
BJP, community groups slam govt over honour killing bill
Bengalurus garbage trail leads to Rs 3.6 crore in fines, over 82,000 litter violations
Fair & glow! Demand for IV therapy in Bengaluru up
Tension erupted at Azim Premji University as ABVP activists protested a scheduled discussion on alleged state violence in Kashmir. Police took around 25 activists into custody. The university clarified no event was authorized or held on campus, condemning the disruption. AISA accused ABVP of stifling academic debate.
Bengaluru woman running MDMA network with Nigerian arrested
CBSE tells Karnataka schools: No class 10, 12 before April 1
Bengaluru doctors flag surge in kidney stones, urinary tract infections ahead of peak summer
Bengaluru man tries to break two ATMs to steal cash, arrested
Grieving times: Organ retrieval centre in Bengaluru to make donation process easier on families
Karnataka high court bins case against school principal over alleged national flag insult
The High Court has issued a conditional order for actor Ranveer Singh. Police are barred from taking coercive action against him. This is subject to his cooperation in the ongoing investigation. The actor had challenged an FIR filed over his mimicry of a character from the Kannada film Kantara. The court has asked for objections to be filed by Monday.
Bengaluru court registers complaint against five senior officers over Kogilu demolition
Water supply to be disrupted in east, south Bengaluru on Feb 26
Fake ophthalmologist dupes Bengaluru doctor of Rs 22 lakh in matrimonial scam
Courting trouble: 4 job aspirants promised high court posts, cheated of Rs 48 lakh
Cash shortage hits Bengaluru banks amid election buzz
Bengaluru banks face a severe cash crunch as withdrawals outpace deposits, forcing currency chests to borrow from peers. Businesses, especially in construction, are withdrawing large sums, potentially for upcoming elections. While ATMs are prioritized, 500 notes are scarce, prompting banks to urge customers towards digital transactions to ease the temporary disruption.
Singer Anuv Jain wraps up India tour with a power-packed night in Bengaluru
Singer Anuv Jain is prioritizing lasting connections with his audience on his current tour, aiming to create memories that extend beyond the performance. He has successfully balanced larger productions with an intimate feel, enhancing the closeness with fans. Jain emphasizes authenticity in his music, resisting categorization and focusing on creating meaningful stories through his songs.
Ive made a conscious effort not to fall prey to trends or opinions: Manu Chandra
In 2025, Manu Chandras independent venture earned him the third spot on Indias Top 30 Chefs list the highest-ranked Bengaluru-based chef. From a post-pandemic debut to representing India at Davos 2026, he stands as the citys culinary conscience
Kogilu demolition: NGOs left to manage food needs of displaced families
Govt job aspirants protest flares up in Dharwad; Siddaramaiah blames BJP for vacancy backlog
Automatic land mutation system launched; will cut delays, curb middlemen
SriLankan Airlines announces Ahmedabad as its 10thdestination in India
The airline currently has 23 airworthy aircraft; The airline serves Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Kochi, Thiruvananthpuram, Madurai and Tiruchirappalli
Siddaramaiah must rein MLAs talking of chief minister change, says Shivakumar
In relief for owners, new rules allow change in use of agricultural land bought before 2020
Man arrested within 24 hours of ATM, bank theft attempts
State reiterates legal provisions on drug dispensing at PHCs
Anti-Pollution Body Flags Contamination In Vegetables In Bengaluru, Other Areas
A recent study by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has raised concerns about food safety in Bengaluru, revealing heavy metal contamination and excessive pesticide residues in vegetables sold across the city.
Private complaint against five senior officials over Kogilu demolition in Bengaluru
Bengaluru North Corporation notifies 70 stray dog feeding spots
Steps have been taken to ensure humane management of street dogs while balancing public health and environmental cleanliness
Fake stock market investment call centre uncovered in Bengaluru, two arrested
1,600 posts in State fire dept. will be filled soon, says Home Minister
With a spike in high-rise buildings in Bengaluru, the department has been equipped with modern and advanced machinery. For the first time, a 90-m aerial ladder platform vehicle capable of reaching significant heights has been inducted into the fleet, says R. Parameshwara
Man arrested for assaulting 55-year-old who questioned his honking
TATA.ev x Shell Mega Charging Hubs: TATA.ev and Shell India Mobility have launched 21 new Mega Charging Hubs across Bengaluru, Chennai, Mysuru, Pune, and Vadodara. These sites, equipped with 120 kW DC fast chargers, significantly expand India's public EV charging network. The collaboration aims to support the growing demand for electric vehicle infrastructure, enhancing both city commuting and long-distance travel.
Bengaluru Weather: Temperatures Rise As Rain Forecast For Karnataka This Week
Temperatures are climbing across the state, and IMD has warned of heat along with possible rainfall in Kalaburagi, Vijayapura, Chikkamagaluru, Koppal, and Gadag.
Bengaluru road rage: CCTV captures 65-year-old man thrashed by car driver
Empty Homes In A Housing-Starved City: Why BDA Units Remain Unsold In Bengaluru
In an attempt to clear the inventory, the BDA organized housing melas and offered a 5% discount for bulk purchasers. However, these incentives have failed to move the needle.
Bengaluru To The Beach In 3 Hours: New Expressway To Transform Weekend Getaways
The expressway is being developed in ten distinct packages across three states. As of February 2026, approximately 235 km (89%) of the total 263.2 km has been completed.
Job fair for ex-servicemen to be held in Bengaluru on February 27
Registration is now open, and is free for ex-servicemen and potential employers
Bengaluru: 24,000 homes found evading Rs 688 crore property tax, here's what happens next
The Greater Bengaluru Authority has uncovered Rs 688 crore in property tax evasion across over 23,000 properties through GPS-based surveys. Notices have been issued to tens of thousands of owners, with seven properties auctioned to recover Rs 437 crore in arrears. The drive aims for transparency and accountability in tax collection.
CPCB Study Finds Lead In 26% Of Bengaluru Vegetable Samples, Warning Issued
Experts suggest that polluted water used for irrigation is a major source of contamination, especially water affected by industrial effluents and untreated sewage.
On Camera, 65-Year-Old Man Thrashed By Car Driver In Bengaluru Road Rage
The car driver followed the 65-year-old pedestrian and thrashed him despite mediation attempts by passersby. The incident, which took place on Sunday evening, was recorded on CCTV cameras.
The rapid advancements in the world of technology in recent decades have not only altered but transformed the dynamics of modern warfare completely. Amid rising cyber warfare threats, growing risks of digital espionage and the increasing weaponization of emerging technologies has indeed made it imperative for India to strengthen its cybersecurity resilience and build next-generation secure communication capabilities that not only ensure the expansion of the countrys digital economy but also safeguard the national defence preparedness. Chandigarh University Officials along with IIT Guwahati management during National Level ISEA Workshop on Secure and Intelligent IoT Systems at Chandigarh University And to strengthen Indias cybersecurity and secure communication research capabilities, Chandigarh University in collaboration with the India Internet Foundation (IIFON) has established an Internet Technology Research Lab under the AIORI (Advanced Internet Operations Research in India) framework, becoming the first private university in the country and the third institution overall after IIT Guwahati and IISc Bengaluru to set up such a specialized facility. Internet Technology Lab at Chandigarh University to Strengthen Indigenous Cybersecurity Research and Build Next-Gen Secure Internet Systems This initiative is aimed at building a robust indigenous research ecosystem wherein this lab will function as a collaborative platform for research, training and capacity building in internet technologies, internet measurement systems, IoT, DNS infrastructure, quantum-safe DNS and next-generation internet systems with technological inputs, tools, testbeds and research support from the India Internet Foundation. The AIORI collaboration will provide Chandigarh University students and faculty access to a national-scale research testbed spread across multiple locations and hundreds of measurement anchors, enabling advanced experimentation and development in secure and intelligent internet systems. The initiative also supports course delivery through production-grade testbeds for edge computing, distributed systems, IoT and cloud computing, while creating opportunities for internships, live projects and hands-on training for students. The collaboration will serve as a catalyst for outcome-driven Industry-academia engagement and capacity building in emerging internet technologies through joint workshops, hackathons, faculty development programs, training programmes and collaborative research projects. Moreover, the access to indigenous research infrastructures, datasets and reference architectures will support innovation in software engineering, advanced analytics and system design aligned to the national cybersecurity priorities. As the modern warfare rapidly expands into cyber and information domains, experts believe that there is an urgent need to enhance indigenous research capabilities, nurture highly skilled professionals in these emerging domains and build secure communication systems that can strengthen nations security by protecting the critical digital infrastructure. India today is among the most targeted countries globally for cyberattacks. As per the record of the Union home ministry, around 65.9 lakh cyber-fraud complaints involving a total amount of Rs 55,659 crore were reported in the country in the last five years through the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP). With India accounting for nearly half of the worlds digital payments and rapidly expanding digital infrastructure, there is a need for robust cybersecurity mechanism and skilled manpower to safeguard the nations security and protect its critical digital infrastructure. Responding to this national and economic security concerns, Chandigarh University and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati have initiated a strategic academic collaboration aimed at strengthening cybersecurity education, advanced research and innovation through joint initiatives under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technologys (MeitY) Information Security Education and Awareness (ISEA) programme. IIT GuwahatiChandigarh University Collaborate to Nurture Future-Ready professionals and build Research Capacity in IoT, Intelligent Systems and 6G Technologies The collaboration between IIT Guwahati and Chandigarh University expands through the National Level ISEA Workshop (ISEASIEEC 2026) on Secure and Intelligent IoT Systems, EdgeCloud Intelligence and 6G Networks, jointly organized by IIT Guwahati under MeitYs Information Security Education and Awareness (ISEA) Phase-III initiative and Chandigarh University serving as a key partner institution under the national ISEA framework. Organized at Chandigarh University on February 67, the national workshop that brought together leading academicians, cybersecurity researchers, industry experts and students from across the country, focused on emerging challenges and solutions in secure machine-to-machine communication, intelligent systems and next-generation network security. It is primarily aimed at strengthening capacity building in cybersecurity and digital systems by aligning them to the national priorities. While IIT Guwahati serves as a hub institution under the ISEA framework, Chandigarh Universitys role as a major collaborator enables the dissemination of advanced knowledge, technical training and research opportunities to a larger student and faculty base that in turn will contribute to the capacity building in critical and emerging technology domains. With India moving toward highly connected digital networks and preparing for future 6G communication technologies, the workshop focused on emerging challenges in secure machine-to-machine communication, edge and cloud intelligence and next-generation network security areas increasingly significant for both for civilian infrastructure and defence communication systems. The technical sessions delivered by experts from IIT Guwahati, IIT Kanpur, IIT Ropar and other premier institutions from the country covered topics such as securing low power computing, confidential computing across IoT edge cloud environments and sustainable security frameworks for edge AI, offering participants insights into cutting-edge research as well as practical challenges in implementing secure digital systems across sectors including defence, telecommunications and critical infrastructure. Collaborative Indigenous Research to drive Indias Cybersecurity Preparedness and Tech Resilience One of the main outcomes of the collaboration is enhanced academic and research exposure for students who engage directly with leading researchers and faculty from countrys premier institutions. The students gain access to emerging domains such as IoT security, intelligent systems and secure communication networks that extend beyond the classroom learning and direct exposure to the national-level initiatives like ISEA and AIORI will also help students open new doors to the career opportunities in research institutions, technology industries and government sectors working in defence technologies, cybersecurity and secure communication systems. The collaboration between institutions like IIT Guwahati and Chandigarh University will also play a pivotal role in advancing Indias technological and cybersecurity objectives. A panel discussion also held on Secure Systems Engineering through Atmanirbhar Bharat to showcase the importance of collaborative indigenous research and innovation and trusted digital infrastructure to establish strong connect among academia, industry and national policy initiatives. As India is moving rapidly into a more connected and technology-driven future, there arise an urgent need to build secure digital systems, intelligent networks and skilled professionals. So, such collaborations as the one between institutions like Chandigarh University and IIT Guwahati would be instrumental in strengthening the academic and research capabilities to meet these emerging challenges to enhance Indias cybersecurity preparedness and technological resilience. About Chandigarh University Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located near Chandigarh in the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the field of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC. www.cuchd.in .
SWR will operate a one-trip special train between Yesvantpur and Talguppa, and also extend YesvantpurShivamogga Town Tri-weekly Express up to Talaguppa for one day to handle the rush of passengers for the Sirsi Marikamba Devi Jatra Mahotsava
B'luru's gated communities debate checks on domestic staff
As security lapses surface, many Bengaluru apartments push for mandatory police verification, though not all residents, especially women, are convinced about a one-size-fits-all remedy
Amazon opens second-largest office in Bengaluru, plans major India expansion
The office was inaugurated on Monday by Karnataka Minister for Large and Medium Industries MB Patil
School bus with kids moves backwards, hits pole
Karnataka high court disposes of PIL after government assurance on crowd-control bill
Gut your health: How Leucine Rich Bio uses microbiome science to personalise preventive healthcare
From at-home microbiome testing to personalised diets and drug discovery ambitions, Bengaluru-based deeptech startup Leucine Rich Bio is shifting healthcare from treatment to prevention.
From rot to revival: 26 years on, Bengalurus KR Market parking gets upgrade
Minister rules out extending park timings in Bengaluru ahead of summer
Bengaluru student shares bank details with pal, lands in Rs 7-crore cyber fraud
Stress switch: Indian Institute of Science study finds how brain scratches the itch
India to contribute 40% of APACs 61.3 million sq ft Grade-A office supply in 2026: CBRE
India will lead Asia Pacific office space growth in 2026. Nearly 40% of new Grade-A office supply in the region will come from India. Bengaluru, Delhi-NCR, and Mumbai are among the top five cities for new office completions. This expansion is driven by global capability centers, AI firms, and institutional investment. India's talent pool and scalable growth potential attract occupiers.
IISc researchers find out how the brain suppresses itch during stress
Quick commerce takes lead in organised retail
Quick commerce is transforming grocery shopping in major Indian cities. By 2025, online and modern retail channels will capture 40-50% of key food sales. Consumers in Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune, and Chennai are increasingly choosing these faster options. Categories like staples, edible oil, and frozen foods are experiencing significant growth.
Joint inspection held for proposed elevated rotary flyover at IOC junction
In Bengaluru, innovation isnt just appreciated, it is expected, says Avinash Kapoli
Amazon opens its second largest office in Asia in Bengaluru
This 1.1 million square feet, 12-storey campus will support over 7,000 employees across ecommerce, operations, payments, technology, and seller services across India
There is pressure from parents to ban mobiles: DKS
Karnataka health staff to go on phased strike from March 11
Greater Bengaluru Authority detects Rs 318 crore property tax evasion
Man held in Karnataka for not allowing dalit couple to enter temple
Amazon opens second largest office in Asia in Bengaluru
The new office of Amazon will house over 7,000 employees and company has already ten corporate offices in Bengaluru alone.
RERA disposal rates mask poor recovery for homebuyers: FPCE
Second round of property GPS survey detects 318 cr. in tax dues from 13,600 properties
In its first phase, the authorityhad detected property tax evasion amounting to around 370 crore, covering about 10,000 properties across the city
Cybercrooks use pending gas bill ruse to swindle money
ParameshwaraKumaraswamy meet adds to churn amid SiddaramaiahShivakumar tussle
Karnataka high court overturns order for third valuation of answer scripts
Young minds introduced to frontier tech innovations
Navakanta Bhat, dean, Division of Interdisciplinary Sciences, and professor at CeNSE, IISc, and Y. Dilip, director, ADE, DRDO, Bengaluru, share deep perspectives and experiences at illuminate in Mysuru
Third edition of Karnataka State Police Run on Sunday
The event is expected to attract more than 10,000 participants across age groups
SWR to upgrade maximum speed limit on Yelahanka-Dharmavaram rail corridor
The corridor will become the second route in Bengaluru Division to be upgraded to 130 kmph, after the Bengaluru-Jolarpettai section, officials say
Centre allocates 2,245.30 crore to Karnataka; 83.53 crore awaiting States action plan
The Union government hasallocated2,245.30 crore to Karnataka under the Swachh Bharat MissionUrban (SBM-U) 2.0, with 83.53 crore ready to be released once the Statesubmitsa detailed action plan
Karnataka government forms tripartite committees for formulation of Labour Code Rules
While the State hadpreviouslyformed committees, they comprised onlylabourdepartment officials.Thelatest developmentfollowsa meeting held byLabourMinister Santosh Lad with employer and employee representatives on February 11.
Cheesecake Factory Bakery opens first India store in Bengaluru, targets 250 crore revenue in 5 years
The Cheesecake Factory Bakery has made its India debut, opening its first store in Bengaluru through a partnership with The Gourmet Caf. The launch signals a major push into the countrys premium dessert market, with The Gourmet Caf planning 55 outlets nationwide over the next five years backed by a $60 million investment. The move underscores Indias rising appeal as a key market for global food brands.
Amazon opens 2nd largest Asia office in Bengaluru for 7,000 employees
The 12-storey campus spanning across 1.1 million square feet, will support over 7,000 employees across ecommerce, operations, payments, technology, and seller services in India, the company said in a statement.
Vande Bharat Between Bengaluru And Goa: 700 Km In 12 Hours, Check Details
The train is expected to cover the roughly 700 km stretch in about 12 hours, offering a faster and more comfortable travel option between Bengaluru and Goa.
Azuga , a Bridgestone Company and leader in fleet telematics,has achieved a rare milestone in the Indian tech ecosystem: securing the Great Place to Work certification for the second consecutive year. This recognition solidifies AzugaBengaluru as the nerve centre for the Azuga ecosystem. Since its acquisition by Bridgestone Americas, this R&D hub has transitioned into the primary engine room where the future of data-driven transportation is being architected. DRIVING EXCELLENCE: Team members at Azugas Bengaluru Global Centre of Excellence, the company was recently recognized as a Great Place to Work for the second consecutive year Fatimazahra Howes , Managing Director at Azuga , describes as the heartbeat of their global innovation. According to Howes , Winning this recognition twice in a row is a testament to the consistency of our mission. Our Bengaluru teams are thecentre ofinnovation and developmentfor Azuga,where the technology powering the future of road safety and fleet efficiency is built.This certification belongs to our team members who solve the worlds most complex mobility challenges every day. Cecilia Clech, Head of HR, Azuga echoes this vision, The talent and passion of our Bengaluru team are fundamental to our success as a global leader in mobility. Achieving this certification for the second year in a row highlights the culture weve built. By cultivating an environment where our India hub acts as the nerve centre for R&D, we are delivering the cutting-edge solutions that our customers rely on worldwide. Azuga India has always been the global tech heart of the company since its inception, proving world-class innovation and delivering products and solutions for the world. Recognizing these founding principles as a Great Place to Work for the second-year running reflects the passion of a team that has successfully blended Silicon Valley agility with the 100-year legacy and stability of Bridgestone. The link between employee engagement and customer success remains a core pillar of the company's value proposition. Kunal Sarkar, President - Sales, Support, and Operations-Azuga (India) says, For our customers, our internal culture is their greatest competitive advantage. When a client sees a significant reduction in driving citations or vehicle wear-and-tear, they are witnessing the direct output of a stable, high-trust workforce. This internal synergy translates directly into market-leading results, where the team develops high-performance ROI and safety tools that have been proven to reduce road accidents by a notable 38%. Simultaneously, the hub acts as the primary architect for state government agencies implementing complex Road Usage Charging (RUC) and emissions testing programs. The team also provides the foundational data infrastructure for insurance companies looking to roll out next-generation, usage-based insurance (UBI) models that reward safe driving behaviour. Ashwini Shankarappa, Director-Human Resources, Azuga states that, At Azuga, we have always championed a people-first culture, recognizing that culture is a daily commitment rather than a one-time project. We know that great workplace is not built overnight, and this years recognition is particularly meaningful because it reflects our focus on holistic employee well-being and our commitment to nurturing talent through extensive mentorship programs. Maintaining such a high-impact environment two years in a rowdemonstratesa values-driven, high-performance model; it proves that when we prioritize our peoples professional growth and personal health, they feel empowered to build world-class solutions through open communication and mutual respect. According to Great Place To Work research, job seekers are 4.5 times more likely to find a great boss at a Certified great workplace. Additionally, employees at Certified workplaces are 93% more likely to look forward to coming to work, and are twice as likely to be paid fairly, earn a fair share of the companys profits and have a fair chance at promotion. WERE HIRING! BMS-Azuga_HR@bridgestone.com About Azuga Azuga, Bridgestone is globally trusted fleet management solution, provides innovative end-to-end solutions for commercial fleets, government agencies, insurance companies and automotive industry suppliers through an integrated approach of hardware technology, fleet management applications, driver gamification, video telematics, and data analytics. The award-winningAzugaFleet solution powers over 14,000 commercial fleets, from small to large enterprise. About Great Place to Work Certification Great Place To Work Certification is the most definitive employer-of-choice recognition that companies aspire to achieve. It is the only recognition based entirely on what employees report about their workplace experience specifically, how consistently they experience a high-trust workplace. Great Place to Work Certification is recognized worldwide by employees and employers alike and is the global benchmark for identifying and recognizing outstanding employee experience. Every year, more than 10,000 companies across 60 countries apply to get Great Place To Work-Certified. About Great Place To Work As the global authority on workplace culture, Great Place To Work brings 30 years of groundbreaking research and data to help every place become a great place to work for all. Their proprietary platform and For All Model help companies evaluate the experience of every employee, with exemplary workplaces becoming Great Place To Work Certified or receiving recognition on a coveted Best Workplaces List.
After Living Abroad, Bengaluru Man Hails City As World-Class, Says Fixing Basics Can Make It Best
Amarnath Shivashankar shared his opinion on X. In his message, he compared his experience of living in Bengaluru to his time in Western countries.
