Punjab govt. employees call off their strike after assurance

The employees, who had on Tuesday, September 8, observed a day-long strike, were demanding that the government withdraw its letter branding their August 27 mass casual leave taken in protest as unauthorised leave.

Bihar Police SI Candidates Protest in Patna, Demand Dates for Physical Efficiency Test

Candidates for Bihar Police SI positions protested in Patna, demanding immediate announcement of Physical Efficiency Test dates after passing exams. Bihar Police SI Candidates Protest in Patna, Demand Dates for Physical Efficiency Test

BU employee welfare association continues sit-in demanding refund of ESI deduction

Veterinary interns stipend protest enters second day

Ganderbal, Sep 8: The protest by veterinary interns at the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology-Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Shuhama campus, entered its second consecutive day on Tuesday, with the protesting interns pressing for an enhancement in their monthly stipend and urging the government to address their demands without further delay. The protesting interns said they have been seeking a revision of their stipend, which they described as inadequate considering the nature of their duties, academic commitments and field responsibilities. The protest continued at the Shuhama campus as the interns maintained that their demand was legitimate and aimed at securing financial support during their internship period. PDP leader Iltija Mufti visited the protesting interns at the Shuhama campus and interacted with them regarding their demands. She later spoke to reporters and extended her support to the interns, calling upon the government to initiate dialogue with them and resolve the issue at the earliest. It is a shame that the brightest minds of J&K, doctors and vets, are being forced to leave their duties and protest on the streets. They are not demanding anything illegal, Mufti said. She drew a parallel between veterinary interns and medical interns who, she said, have also been raising concerns over stipend-related issues at different institutions across Jammu and Kashmir. According to Mufti, the interns are currently receiving around Rs 6,000 per month and are seeking an increase to Rs 23,000. She said the demand was modest considering the expenses interns have to meet while carrying out their duties. She appealed to the Minister for Animal Husbandry, Javed Ahmad Dar, to visit the protesting interns personally and hold a dialogue with them. Mufti maintained that she did not want to politicise the protest, saying her immediate concern was that the interns should receive justice and that the government should engage with them.

Delhi CM hails Centre's approval for separate Delhi PWD engineering cadre

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 9 (IANS) The Central government has approved the Delhi governments proposal to create an independent engineering cadre for the Public Works Department (PWD), a long-pending reform expected to give the capital greater control over its engineering workforce and accelerate infrastructure projects. Under the decision, 3,214 sanctioned engineering posts across 36 categories in the Delhi PWD will be separated from the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) cadre and brought under a New Delhi PWD Engineering Cadre. The move ends nearly three decades of dependence on the central cadre for appointments and postings. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta welcomed the approval, describing it as a historic step towards making Delhi a developed, safe and world-class capital. In a post on X, she said the need for a separate PWD engineering cadre had been pending for almost 30 years. Our government took the decision, accelerated the process, and now, with the approval of the central government, the path has been paved for Delhi to have its own independent engineering cadre within a year and a half, she stated. Gupta expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for fulfilling the long-standing demand. The Delhi government said the separate cadre would enable faster filling of vacant posts, strengthen project monitoring and give fresh momentum to the construction and maintenance of roads, bridges and public buildings. It is also expected to make the engineering system more responsive to the capitals specific developmental and administrative requirements. Until now, Delhi PWDs engineering services were largely dependent on the CPWD cadre, with appointments routed through the central system. Officials noted that this arrangement sometimes delayed decisions tailored to the citys needs. With its own cadre, the Delhi government will have greater flexibility in managing vacancies, ensuring the availability of engineers, monitoring projects and deploying officials according to work requirements. The reform comes as the government prepares for several major projects, including a new Secretariat, mini-secretariats in all 11 districts, and works related to mandis, sports grounds and other public facilities. Sustained engineering support will also be required for ongoing road, bridge and infrastructure works across the capital. The government believes the independent cadre will improve accountability and transparency in the execution of public works by aligning the responsibilities of engineering officials more closely with the Delhi administrations framework.

Apple unveils iPhone 18 Pro series with variable-aperture camera, A20 Pro chip and new Siri AI

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 9 (IANS) Apple on Wednesday unveiled its latest flagship smartphones, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, at its fall Surprise and Shine event, with major upgrades focused on camera capabilities, performance, battery life and artificial intelligence. While the overall design of the new Pro models remains largely unchanged from the previous generation, Apple has significantly upgraded the camera system. The iPhone 18 Pro series features a 48-megapixel main camera with a variable aperture mechanism built using six thin blades. Apple has also introduced new professional controls within the Camera app, giving users greater control over white balance, shutter speed, aperture and histogram settings. On the video front, the new Pro models can record 4K footage in Dolby HDR Vision. Users will also be able to apply cinematic effects to recorded footage after shooting, giving them greater flexibility during the editing process. Apple has made changes to the front of the devices as well. The new Pro models feature a smaller Dynamic Island, which can now display up to three Live Activities simultaneously, allowing users to monitor more information without leaving the current screen. Under the hood, both smartphones are powered by Apple's latest A20 Pro chip and feature a redesigned vapor chamber aimed at improving heat management during demanding tasks. Apple has also redesigned the battery system to improve endurance. The company claims the iPhone 18 Pro can deliver up to 36 hours of video playback, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max offers up to 45 hours. Artificial intelligence was another major focus of the launch. Apple demonstrated its new Siri AI with contextual on-screen intelligence, allowing the assistant to better understand information and actions displayed on the user's screen. With iOS 27, Apple is also introducing an iPhone handoff feature that allows users to use two iPhones with a single eSIM and switch between the devices. The iPhone 18 Pro series also gets a new burgundy colour option, replacing the orange finish offered with the previous generation. The iPhone 18 Pro starts at $1,199, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max starts at $1,299, representing a $100 increase over last year's models. Pre-orders will begin Saturday, with both devices scheduled to go on sale on September 18.

Samantha Ruth Prabhu borrowed from family and friends to fund 'Maa Inti Bangaaram' before its

Highlights Maa Inti Bangaaram has crossed the 7.75 million mark at the worldwide box office. Samantha Ruth Prabhu backed the film through her production banner Tralala Moving Pictures. The team deliberately worked with a tightly controlled budget. In an exclusive interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, Samantha opened up about the risks behind the films success. Samantha Ruth Prabhus Maa Inti Bangaaram may have become a 7.75 million box office success, but the journey behind the film was far more uncertain than its eventual numbers suggest. The Telugu action film marked Samanthas return to theatres after a three-year break. She also stepped into the role of producer, backing the project through her banner Tralala Moving Pictures alongside Raj Nidimoru and co-producer Himank Duvvuru. Looking back at the films journey, Samantha revealed just how carefully the team approached the project when there was no guarantee that audiences would turn up. A gamble from the beginning The makers deliberately kept the production budget tight because they did not know how the film would perform. We were not embarrassed to admit that we had no idea if this would work, Samantha told The Hollywood Reporter India. The uncertainty shaped several decisions around the production, including how much money and time could be spent on the film. Rather than relying entirely on outside financing, Samantha said the team borrowed from friends and family while also putting in their own money. It turned the film into a deeply personal investment for the actor-producer. The eventual box office success therefore meant much more than simply another hit on her filmography. Making an action film on a tight budget The financial restrictions also affected how the film was made. Major action sequences, including the popular bus sequence, were compressed into single days of filming. The cast and crew had to work within a demanding schedule to deliver the scale expected from an action film without allowing the limited budget to become obvious on screen. Samantha admitted that the film could have benefited from more time and money. However, she felt the finished product did not look as though it was missing something. That restraint proved significant. What started as a carefully controlled production eventually crossed the 7.75 million mark worldwide and became one of Samanthas biggest successes. Why the success means more to Samantha The film was also a significant personal comeback for Samantha after her three-year absence from the big screen. She has rejected the idea that its success should be viewed as an overnight turnaround. For Samantha, the result reflects roughly two years of work, not only on Maa Inti Bangaaram but also on herself as an actor and as a person. The character of Swarna, also known as Jhansi, was initially considered for Sai Pallavi, who eventually had to pass because of scheduling conflicts. After Samantha came on board, writer Raj Nidimoru reworked the character for her, drawing loosely on the resilience Samantha has shown in her own life. Samantha described the character as an exaggerated version of a resilience shared by many women. The result is now a striking turnaround. A project that began with the makers openly questioning whether it would work has gone on to become a major commercial success. For Samantha, the 7.75 million result is proof that taking a risk can pay off, even when there is no certainty at the start.

Family, activists protest demanding murder probe into Class XI students death in Madurai

Controversy Erupts Over Maa Shipra Aarti in Ujjain as Priests Protest Administrative Interference

Ujjain priests are protesting against administrative interference in the traditional Maa Shipra Aarti, demanding the preservation of their customs. Controversy Erupts Over Maa Shipra Aarti in Ujjain as Priests Protest Administrative Interference

Chennai Open: Ajeetesh Sandhu opens two-shot lead

Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 9 (IANS) Ajeetesh Sandhu fired a six-under 66 to open a two-shot lead after the second round of the INR 1 crore Chennai Open 2026, here at the TNGF Cosmo Golf Course. The 37-year-old from Chandigarh (65-66), who began the day sharing the lead, made eight birdies against two bogeys to reach 13-under 131 at the halfway stage. Sandhu, a five-time winner on the DP World PGTI and a former Asian Tour champion, moved two strokes clear of overnight co-leader Stepan Danek. The 29-year-old Czech Republic golfer (65-68) made six birdies and two bogeys in a four-under 68 to take sole possession of second place at 11-under 133. Delhis Rashid Khan (66-68), winner of the Telangana Open in Vikarabad two weeks ago, occupied third place at 10-under 134. His four-under 68 included an eagle on the par-five 18th, four birdies and two bogeys. Sandhu played both nines in three-under but particularly enjoyed the front nine, which was his second nine of the day, because it contains some of the courses more demanding holes. The front nine is a little trickier and has a few holes that really demand your attention, Sandhu said. I managed to make birdies on a couple of those holes, so that was enjoyable. Sandhu felt he struck the ball better than during the opening round and found his rhythm earlier. A couple of timely par saves helped him settle before his late setback, a three-putt bogey on the eighth. Overall, it was a pretty solid round, he said. I found my rhythm early and made a couple of important saves, which helped build momentum. After that, it was fairly smooth sailing. The three-putt bogey on the eighth was disappointing, but there are still two rounds to play. This is Sandhus first appearance at the TNGF Cosmo Golf Course. His only previous tournament in Chennai came during his first season as a professional. I liked the course as soon as I played it during the Pro-Am, he said. It suits my eye. It is tree-lined and tricky, so Im pleased with how Ive played so far. Sandhu has also enjoyed the local cuisine, turning to idlis and dosas as part of his preparation for the humid conditions. Im a big fan of South Indian food, he said. Ive been having plenty of dosas and idlis, especially at breakfast. Idlis are good fuel for the round, so Ill continue with that. Current Race to DP World India Championship leader Saptak Talwar (67-68) moved up from tied sixth to tied fourth at nine-under 135, alongside Noida golfers Gaurav Pratap Singh (69-66) and Amardeep Malik (67-68). Defending champion N Thangaraja of Sri Lanka followed his opening 69 with a 70 to move into a share of 11th place at five-under 139. The halfway cut fell at even-par 144, with 52 players from the field of 132 advancing to the final two rounds.

Pakistan: 100-year-old Hindu temple's demolition sparks concerns among minority communities

Digital Desk | Islamabad, Sep 9 (IANS) The collapse of a more than 100-year-old Hindu temple in Narowal in Pakistan's Punjab province has sparked concerns among minority communities in the country, who have highlighted earlier incidents where heritage sites suffered damage under conflicting accounts, a report has detailed. A minority rights group, the Pakistan Masiha Millat Party, said that the temple was intentionally demolished to make more space for a nearby madrasa. Pakistans Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), which is responsible for managing Sikh and Hindu properties left behind by those who migrated to India after the partition, claimed that the temple collapsed during torrential rains. The Punjab government has backed ETPB's statement about the temple collapse, according to a report in Bitter Winter. PMMP chairman Aslam Parvez Sahotra said that he and several local residents have submitted a written application to the Punjab Additional Home Secretary, demanding action against those behind the demolition and officials who were not able to protect the site. He said that the order issued by the ETPB Deputy Director in Sialkot in January, cancelling the lease of the madrasa, ordering illegal occupants to vacate the property and sealing the property, was never implemented. The PMMP alleged that the temple was dismantled piece by piece and materials like bricks and metal fittings were removed from the site and said that the collapse statement given by ETPB and the government does not explain the reason behind the absence of these materials. They called for reconstructing the temple in its original form and urged the Punjab government to protect Hindu temples, Sikh gurdwaras, and Christian churches, the report in Bitter Winter mentioned. The conflicting accounts have revived concerns among minority communities, who point to earlier incidents where heritage sites suffered damage under disputed circumstances. In June, portions of the 125yearold Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Farooqabad were reduced to rubble after a local businessman allegedly carried out demolition work without legal clearance or a court order, the report detailed. Sikh residents protested in the streets, and only then did authorities acknowledge the incident. A report described the night of June 24 as the moment machinery tore into a building that generations had treated as sacred. Officials later admitted that the department failed to take notice until the Sikh community raised its voice and promised reconstruction, it added.

Stay Away, Mamdani Chants Rock Nyc; 9/11 Protesters Pack Manhattan

Zohran Mamdani is facing a fiery backlash in New York ahead of the 25th anniversary of 9/11, with protesters in Downtown Manhattan demanding the mayor stay away from the Ground Zero commemoration. American and Israeli flags filled the rally as demonstrators waved signs featuring caricatures of Mamdani and references to the September 11 attacks, while chants of Stay away, Mamdani rang through the crowd. Mamdani has confirmed he plans to attend Fridays ceremony.

MPSC aspirant's death by suicide in Pune amid paper leak row sparks outrage

Digital Desk | Pune, Sept 9 (IANS) A youth preparing for Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) examination allegedly died by suicide in Pune, allegedly due to recurring incidents of paper leak and financial distress. The deceased has been identified as Prathamesh Deshmukh. Police suspect that severe financial difficulties, including an unpaid debt of Rs 2.5 lakh, led him to take this extreme step. The tragic incident has sparked outrage among exam aspirants in the state. Pune, widely regarded as the educational hub of Maharashtra, has recently come under intense scrutiny over repeated paper leak scandals, including connections to NEET, CET, and the latest drug inspector examination leaks. In the wake of the incident, Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) President Harshvardhan Sapkal and Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) founder Abhijit Dipke launched a scathing attack on the state government. Demanding the immediate resignation of the MPSC Chairman and Secretary, Sapkal accused the state government of evading responsibility. The government is acting deaf and blind. A student from Dharashiv ended his lifethis is a victim of government apathy, Sapkal said. If the Chairman does not resign, it implies that he is a close ally of the Chief Minister and was appointed specifically to facilitate paper leaks, he added. Expressing grief over Prathamesh's demise, CJP chief Abhijit Dipke appealed to competitive exam aspirants across the state to refrain from taking extreme measures. Highlighting the plight of rural students who migrate to Pune for exam preparation, Dipke stated that while the government may not value their lives, their families depend on them. Deshmukh's suicide comes after the MPSC aspirants held protests in Pune on Monday and in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar on Tuesday demanding the resignation of MPSC Chairman and concerned officials for paper leaks. Highlighting recent revelations surrounding the MPSC Excise (Departmental) Examination, the protestors alleged direct institutional complicity in administrative malpractices, pointing to reports implicating a high-ranking joint secretary-level officer in leaking exam marking patterns. They demanded an immediate removal and replacement of the current MPSC Chairman and Secretary and press for their replacement with officers of unblemished integrity, comprehensive criminal investigations and strict legal proceedings against all officials and middlemen implicated in scam allegations and pattern leaks and complete structural reform and cleansing of the MPSC examination and recruitment frameworks. NCP SP MLA Rohit Pawar, who has been actively supporting the MPSC aspirants' demand said, It is deeply shocking that while students dedicate 20 hours a day to rigorous preparation, officials within the commission are allegedly selling exam materials. This injustice against hardworking candidates will not be tolerated. This march is not political; it is a fight for the future of our youth. Dismissing allegations that opposition parties are politicising the issue, Rohit Pawar emphasised that the protest represents genuine public outrage. Are the demands of students seeking fair opportunities political? These candidates have assembled on their own accord to protect their rights. People paying 50 to 60 lakh rupees to secure posts through corruption will not be accepted by these students or by the state of Maharashtra, he asked.

MP govt agrees to raise intern doctors stipend to Rs 21,500 after three-day protest

Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 9 (IANS) The Madhya Pradesh government on Wednesday agreed to raise the monthly stipend of MBBS intern doctors to Rs 21,500, following their three-day agitation demanding an increase in remuneration. The decision was taken at a meeting between Deputy Chief Minister and Health Minister Rajendra Shukla and representatives of intern doctors, the Junior Doctors' Association (JUDA) and the Medical Teachers Association (MTA). The agreement came after intern doctors staged protests at various places in the state, including a major demonstration near Kamala Park in Bhopal. The agitation had intensified after police used lathis and water cannons to disperse protesting students. Several intern doctors were injured during the protest. After the meeting, Shukla said the government had ordered an inquiry into the incident and taken preliminary action against two police personnel. Two police personnel, prima facie found to be involved in the incident, have been reassigned to police lines, and an inquiry team has been constituted. Appropriate further action will be ensured based on the findings, he said. The Deputy Chief Minister also assured the delegation that students injured during the police action would receive proper medical treatment. In a democracy, every individual has the right to express their views peacefully, and the government is working with sensitivity to address the students' concerns and resolve their issues, Shukla said. The meeting also covered strengthening healthcare services in rural areas and the role of young doctors in improving medical facilities in remote parts of Madhya Pradesh. Shukla said the state was working to strengthen rural healthcare through an MoU signed with 'Sevankur Bharat' and appealed to young doctors to serve in rural areas with a spirit of service and sensitivity. The stipend hike is expected to provide financial relief to MBBS graduates during their compulsory internship, which involves clinical training and patient-care responsibilities in government hospitals and other healthcare institutions.

PM Package Employees Set September 30 Deadline Over Pending Transit Accommodation

SRINAGAR: Kashmiri Pandit employees appointed under the Prime Ministers Package staged a peaceful protest at Press Colony here on Wednesday, demanding the early allotment of transit accommodation and a permanent solution to their housing concerns. The protesting employees said they had been waiting for government accommodation for a prolonged period and were currently dependent on []

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi vs Tilak Varma: Verbal Exchange Lights Up Duleep Trophy Final

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's exchange with Tilak Varma became the sharpest on-field moment of Day 4 in the Duleep Trophy final, as East Zone moved closer to a commanding win over South Zone at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The East Zone

Education officer caught taking Rs 10,000 bribe in Sangareddy

Hyderabad: The Telangana Anti-Corruption Bureau arrested the Sangareddy District Intermediate Education Officer (DIEO) on Wednesday, September 9, for demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 20,000. According to the complainant who approached the ACB, the accused, Ramavath Govind Ram, demanded the bribe for conducting an inspection and submitting a report for extension of provisional affiliation 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 .

iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e: Release date, rumored specs, price, cameras, and latest news

Macworld For years, Apple has followed a predictable iPhone launch schedule, introducing new iPhones in September the standard model and the Pro model. In the spring, Apple often releases a less expensive phone previously the SE iPhones and, more recently, the e series. That could change with the iPhone 18 generation. This year, the most reliable rumors suggest Apple will introduce the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max in the fall, along with a more expensive iPhone Ultra folding phone , but the iPhone 18 might not join them until later. So what can we expect from the iPhone 18 and 18e? Rumors are pretty thin right now, in part because most of the exciting new stuff will come with the Pro and folding iPhone models in the fall of 2026. Below is a log of what weve heard so far about the standard iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e, based on the most recent and reliable rumors, analyst reports, and leaks, along with historical precedent. iPhone 18 vs 18e rumors at a glance iPhone 18 iPhone 18e Expected release Spring 2027 Spring 2027 Expected price $849-$899 $649-$699 Display size 6.3 inches 6.1 inches Refresh rate Up to 120Hz ProMotion 60Hz Display cutout Dynamic Island; possibly smaller Notch or possibly Dynamic Island Processor A20, expected 2nm A20, expected 2nm RAM 9GB or 12GB 9GB most likely Rear cameras Two 48MP cameras expected Single 48MP Main expected Front camera Rumored 24MP Rumored 12MP Camera Control Yes, possibly simplified Not expected Cellular modem Apple C2 expected Apple C2 expected Wi-Fi/Bluetooth Likely N1 Likely N1 Design Similar to iPhone 17, unless replaced by Air-style design Similar to iPhone 17e Biggest uncertainty Could potentially be replaced/reimagined as Air 2 Whether it gains Dynamic Island Is Apple launching the iPhone 18 in September? No. Apple is expected to launch the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max and foldable iPhone at its September 9 event , but hold the standard iPhone 18 until spring 2027. The new split-release strategy should make Apples increasingly large iPhone lineup easier to manufacture, while giving its premium models the spotlight during the crucial fall launch period. It would also create a second major iPhone launch window in spring, when the iPhone 18 is expected to arrive alongside the iPhone 18e and Air 2. There is a separate rumor that the Air 2 could effectively become the iPhone 18, but that claim remains fairly speculative at this stage. When will the iPhone 18 and 18e release? iPhone 18 : Expected in spring 2027 with an A20 chip, improved RAM and cameras, the iPhone 18 could even disappear entirely if Apple turns the thinner dual-camera Air 2 into its standard iPhone. iPhone 18e : The iPhone 18e is expected in spring 2027 with an A20 chip, 9GB RAM, C2 modem and 48MP camera, while retaining a cheaper 60Hz display and possibly gaining Dynamic Island. While Apple has launched its standard and high-end iPhone models together ever since the first Pro phone arrived in 2019, this year looks to be different. While the Pro phones will launch in September 2026, all the evidence indicates Apple will push the iPhone 18 launch to the spring of 2027, leaving it on shelves for a full 18 months for the first time. So if you bought an iPhone 17 at launch and are looking to upgrade, youll either need to spring for an iPhone 18 Pro or wait until March or April when Apple may hold a second iPhone event or at least launch the new iPhones via press release. We also expect Apple to release the iPhone 18e and iPhone Air 2 at the same time although there is a rumor that the iPhone 18 might actually be the iPhone Air 2. Early Apple published a claim on X that Apple is exploring the idea of calling what is essentially the iPhone Air 2 the iPhone 18 rather than launching a third device. In July Jon Prosser made a similar suggestion in a FTP video that Apple could eventually streamline the lineup around the iPhone, iPhone Pro and iPhone Ultra, with the Air serving as a stepping stone toward that strategy.. What specs will the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e have? A20 processor 9GB to 12GB RAM C2 modem While the iPhone 18 Pro and Ultra will almost certainly use the new A20 Pro chip , the iPhone 18 and 18e are expected to use the standard A20. Like the Pro version, it should be manufactured by TSMC using a 2nm process. Based on the A19, we expect the A20 to retain a 6-core CPU while delivering improved performance and efficiency. The GPU will probably have five cores, although Apple could disable one core in the iPhone 18e. One of the biggest gains may come from the Neural Engine, as Apple continues to put more emphasis on on-device AI processing. The standard iPhone 18 is also expected to get more RAM, up from the iPhone 17s 8GB. Analyst Jeff Pu predicts a substantial increase to 12GB, matching the current iPhone 17 Pro, while Ming-Chi Kuo expects the iPhone 18 and 18e to use an unusual 9GB configuration made up of six 1.5GB memory chips. Macworld considers 9GB slightly more plausible given the global memory shortage and rising component costs. More RAM would primarily benefit multitasking and AI. Both memory capacity and bandwidth are important when running advanced AI models on-device, so Apple has good reason to increase RAM across the range. However, if the iPhone 18 and 18e are limited to 9GB while the Pro models get 12GB, they could have less headroom for increasingly demanding Apple Intelligence features in future iOS releases. That could eventually mean some features are reduced or unavailable on the cheaper models. Elsewhere, the iPhone 18 and 18e are expected to adopt Apples upcoming C2 cellular modem . It isnt yet clear whether the C2 will support mmWave in the U.S., but improvements to 5G performance and power efficiency are likely, along with the potential for expanded satellite connectivity. For Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, Apple may have little reason to move beyond the N1 chip, which already supports Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6. Will the iPhone 18 and 18es cameras be improved? iPhone 17e camera. David Price / Foundry 24MP selfie camera on iPhone 18 iPhone 18e may retain a 12MP selfie camera 48MP Main cameras expected Revised Camera Control button on iPhone 18 The iPhone 18 could get another front-camera upgrade. Apple introduced an 18MP Center Stage camera with the iPhone 17 generation, but reports now suggest the standard iPhone 18 will move to a 24MP selfie camera. That should potentially deliver more detail and give Apple more resolution to work with for cropping and computational photography. The rumor that the iPhone 18 and iPhone Air 2 could be one and the same may mean that the iPhone Air gets a second rear camera. The situation with the iPhone 18e is less clear. While some rumors have suggested that 24MP cameras could spread across the wider iPhone 18 family, a November 2025 J.P. Morgan report said the lower-cost iPhone 18e will retain a 12MP front camera. For now, we wouldnt assume that the 18e will get the same selfie-camera upgrade as the iPhone 18. There has been much less information about the rear cameras. The current iPhone 17 has 48MP Main and 48MP Ultra Wide cameras, while the iPhone 17e has a single 48MP Main camera. We therefore expect the iPhone 18 to retain two 48MP rear cameras and the iPhone 18e to continue with a single 48MP Main camera, although there havent yet been reliable reports of major sensor upgrades for either model. Apple may also simplify Camera Control. According to Weibo leaker Instant Digital , the iPhone 18s button will retain pressure sensitivity but drop the capacitive sensing used by current models, potentially reducing complexity and cost. The iPhone 18e isnt expected to gain Camera Control. Will the iPhone 18e get a display upgrade? iPhone 17e display. David Price / Foundry The iPhone 18 is likely to use a display similar to the iPhone 17, with up to 1,000 nits of typical SDR brightness, 1,600 nits peak HDR brightness, and up to 3,000 nits outdoors. The iPhone 18e could get a more noticeable upgrade, although reports remain inconsistent. The current iPhone 17e uses an older display with relatively modest brightness and a notch rather than Dynamic Island. Some reports suggest the iPhone 18e will finally move to a newer panel with Dynamic Island, potentially bringing it closer to the iPhone 15, which offered up to 2,000 nits of outdoor brightness. However, the Dynamic Island upgrade remains disputed. What does appear more likely is that Apple will continue to limit the 18e to a 60Hz display. According to Digital Chat Station, the phone will retain a 60Hz LTPS OLED panel rather than adopting the LTPO technology used for ProMotion. That would mean no 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate or Always-On display, even as those features become more widespread elsewhere in the iPhone lineup. How much will the iPhone 18 and 18e cost? Everything in the world of tech has gotten more expensive, thanks to chip shortages spurred on by an endless need to build more, bigger AI data centers. Apple in June raised its prices for nearly all Macs and iPads, and even aging hardware like HomePod and Apple TV. iPhone was spared, but we predict the new iPhones arriving on September 9 will carry prices at least $50-100 higher than they have in the past. And thats likely to carry forward to the spring releases, too. Our estimation there for is that the iPhone 18 could start at $849 or $899, and the iPhone 18e could start at $649 or $699. However, as these are Apples budget models, its possible that Apple raises prices on the Pro models but keeps the iPhone 18 and 18e at their current levels, its also possible that Apple could raise prices of the iPhone 17 and 17e before they are replaced. Should you wait for iPhone 18? If you want the Pro models: The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will be available later in 2026. But be prepared for higher prices. If you want a standard or budget iPhone the wait for the iPhone 18 is longer. In the meantime, the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17e remain excellent choices. If you want to save money, the iPhone 17 starts at $799/799 with 256GB of storage, making it one of the best values in the lineup.

Russia Foreign Minister Again Warns Europe Amid Tensions; 'Remember, What Putin Said...'

Lavrov has issued a stark warning to Europe: if Europe attacks Russia, the war would be completely different and very short. The Russian foreign minister cited repeated warnings from Vladimir Putin as tensions between Moscow, NATO and Europe continue to rise over military support for Ukraine.Meanwhile, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte is urging Ukraines allies to dig deeper and increase military assistance, while the Pentagon warns that Russia is rebuilding its military capabilities and defence industry.With Ukraine demanding more drones, weapons and funding, and diplomatic talks taking place in Moscow and Kyiv, the conflict is entering another critical phase. Could increased Western support trigger a dangerous new escalation with Russia or will diplomacy prevent a wider war?

In pictures: Nahid Rana

The UAE tri-nation ODI series is being targeted for his competitive comeback as Bangladesh prepare for a demanding international schedule.

Are Teenagers Becoming Weaker Readers In Digital Age? What Study Says

PISA 2025 results show OECD reading scores fell 28 points in a decade, with weaker performance on demanding texts.

Sher-E-Punjab T20 Cup: Amritsar Soormas Seek Third Straight Victory Against Jalandhar Warriors

Punjab T20 Cup: Amritsar Soormas will look to extend their winning streak to three matches when they clash with Jalandhar Warriors in a Sher-E-Punjab T20 Cup clash at the I.S. Bindra Stadium here on Thursday. A victory for the Abhishek Sharma-led side will help them strengthen their push for a spot in the semi-finals. Amritsar enter the contest buoyed by consecutive victories, which has taken their tally to six points from as many matches. Their latest triumph was a commanding 67-run victory over Mohali Kings, powered by an explosive batting display that yielded a tournament-high total of 279/7. Middle-order batter Naman Dhir, who recently got his India A call-up for the 50-over series against Australia A, delivered the standout performance of the season in that victory by smashing 173 runs off 64 balls, an innings studded with 16 boundaries and 12 sixes. Dhirs explosive knock, also the highest individual score of the current campaign, has provided Amritsar with substantial momentum ahead of the upcoming clash. Dhir will feature as a central figure in Amritsar's batting lineup alongside skipper Abhishek, Abhay Choudhary, and Rahul Kumar. Middle-order batter Jashanpreet Singh Sidhu is also expected to play a key role following his useful contribution of 41 runs off 25 deliveries in the previous match. Reflecting on the team's current form and operational mindset, Jashanpreet spoke about the importance of maintaining focus despite their recent success. We are getting the momentum from the last couple of games and everything is going well. We just have to play ball by ball and trust our game, Jashanpreet said ahead of Thursday's match. Middle-order batter Jashanpreet Singh Sidhu is also expected to play a key role following his useful contribution of 41 runs off 25 deliveries in the previous match. Reflecting on the team's current form and operational mindset, Jashanpreet spoke about the importance of maintaining focus despite their recent success. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories While Amritsar's top-order firepower has dominated recent headlines, they will hope for their potent run-scoring capability to click alongside a disciplined bowling, which in turn can contain Jalandhar's dangerous batting lineup. Article Source: IANS

Dehradun T20 League 2026: Mussoorie Thunders, Selaqui Strikers Set For Title Clash In Grand Final

The Dehradun T20 League: The Dehradun T20 League 2026 has reached its much-awaited climax, with Mussoorie Thunders and Selaqui Strikers set to lock horns in the grand finale for the coveted title on Wednesday. Both teams secured their places in the final with impressive victories in their respective semi-finals and will now battle for the glittering trophy. The highly anticipated title clash will take place today, September 9, 2026, from 7:00 PM onwards at Abhimanyu Cricket Academy in Dehradun. Mussoorie Thunders enter the final high on confidence after edging past Vikasnagar Dhamaka by four runs in the first semi-final. Captain Neeraj Singh Rathore led from the front with an impressive 62 off 48 balls, while Anshul Kumar delivered a match-winning bowling performance, claiming five wickets to help his side secure a place in the title clash. Selaqui Strikers, meanwhile, stormed into the final with a commanding seven-wicket win over Doiwala Kings in the second semi-final. Priyank Singh set the tone with a disciplined three-wicket spell before captain Piyush Joshi (64)* and Aryan Kapoor (43)* completed the chase in style with an unbeaten partnership. With both sides carrying strong momentum into the final, the stage is set for a thrilling contest at the Abhimanyu Cricket Academy. Mussoorie Thunders will aim to complete their campaign by securing the ultimate prize, while Selaqui Strikers will be determined to deliver one final dominant performance and lift the Dehradun T20 League trophy. With both sides carrying strong momentum into the final, the stage is set for a thrilling contest at the Abhimanyu Cricket Academy. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Fans can catch the live action from 7:00 PM on OTT and digital platforms. The final will be streamed live on the FanCode app and website, and fans can also watch the match on ABP Sports across television and digital platforms. Article Source: IANS

Quant Small Cap Fund exits SBI Funds Management, Jubilant FoodWorks and 4 other stocks in August

Quant Small Cap Fund, managed by Quant Mutual Fund, exited six stocks and added four new names in August 2026. The fund increased exposure to 12 stocks while reducing holdings in seven others. Its portfolio stood at 104 stocks, with HFCL commanding the highest allocation at 6.70%. The funds AUM rose to Rs 35,557 crore during the month.

BJP announces month-long 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan' to mark PM Modi's 25 years of public service

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 9 (IANS) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday announced that it will conduct a special month-long campaign titled 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan', starting September 17 to mark the completion of 25 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's public life and service. BJP National President Nitin Nabin, addressing a press conference at the party headquarters, announced that PM Modi will complete 25 years of public service on October 7. To mark this occasion, the BJP will conduct a special month-long campaign from September 17, which is the Prime Minister's birthday, to October 17. Prime Minister Modi's journey of service began on October 7, 2001, when he assumed office as the Chief Minister of Gujarat. Over the past 25 years, he has worked continuously, guided by the mantra of public service to national service,' Nabin said. The Prime Minister's public life is characterised by his unwavering focus on his objectives and resolutions from day one, and his persistent efforts to bring them to fruition, he added. The BJP President asserted that when PM Modi assumed charge of the top office in 2014, the atmosphere in India was marked by despair and policy paralysis. During that period, he said, the Indian economy was counted among the 'Fragile Five'; however, now India ranks among the world's fastest-growing major economies, and the country's stature and prestige on the global stage have steadily risen. PM Modi's journey began as an ordinary BJP worker, and today he discharges his responsibilities as the nation's 'Pradhan Sevak'. Clear vision, firm resolve, and continuous efforts to bring about positive societal change have shaped this journey, he said. Nabin stated that under PM Modi's leadership, the country has strengthened its cultural identity and heritage alongside its development. Citing the Ram Mandir, Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, and the Somnath and Mahakal corridors, he said the Modi government has worked to preserve, restore, and develop the nation's cultural heritage. Additionally, referring to Narendra Modi's tenure as the Chief Minister of Gujarat, the BJP chief mentioned how he worked to ensure water supply to the people through the Narmada project, while also making efforts to establish the state as a major hub for development and investment through the 'Vibrant Gujarat' initiative. Linking the Prime Minister's development journey from Gujarat to the national level, Nabin noted that this same vision drove the implementation of large-scale development schemes across the country. While the nation's youth once faced an atmosphere of despair, a sense of hope and optimism emerged after 2014, he said. Citing the rise of startups and unicorns, he noted that India now ranks among the world's leading nations for startups. He asserted that the country's youth are no longer merely job seekers but have emerged as job creators. Highlighting sports initiatives like 'Khelo India' and 'Fit India', he noted that Indian youth are now representing the nation across various fields. The BJP chief further mentioned that PM Modi has championed the concept of women-led development and highlighted the continuous efforts made to enhance women's economic participation by referencing schemes like 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao to Lakhpati Didi. He also mentioned the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam', noting that it represents a significant step toward providing political representation to women and ensuring their participation in policymaking. Nabin added that Prime Minister Modi has transformed the traditional perspective regarding border areas. Previously, border villages were referred to as the country's 'last villages', but the government redefined their role and importance by designating them as 'India's first villages', he added. The BJP observes Prime Minister Modi's birthday as 'Seva Diwas' (Day of Service). In this spirit, a month-long 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan' will be organised this year from September 17 to October 17. It is the BJP's responsibility to take the message of public service to as many people in society as possible. Through this campaign, Prime Minister Modi's work spanning 25 years of public life -- encompassing service, development, and nation-building -- will be highlighted to the public, Nabin said. The Prime Minister's 25-year journey of service should be viewed not merely as a series of political achievements, but as an unwavering commitment to serving the people and the nation, the BJP chief said, while calling upon party workers and the general public to join the campaign.

After assurance from J&K Health Minister, medical interns call off 9-day-long strike

Digital Desk | Srinagar, Sep 9 (IANS) After assurance from J&K Health Minister, Sakina Itoo, that their stipend would be revised within 30 days, medical interns returned to their duties on Wednesday after nine days. The deadlock in talks with the UT government had resulted due to the demand of the medical interns that the government should give them formal assurances. Sakina Itoo on Tuesday evening called representatives of the protesting medical interns for a fresh round of talks. It was decided after the meeting that the government would revise the stipend of the interns within 30 days in accordance with the recommendations of the stipend enhancement committee. The meeting with the health minister was attended by representatives of the medical interns, Principal of Government Medical College Srinagar and the Deputy Director Planning representing the Director Health Services Kashmir. The MBBS and BDS interns across Jammu and Kashmir decided to call off their strike after the government gave a written assurance that the stipend issue will be resolved within a month. After this assurance, the interns called off their strike and returned to their duties today. The medical interns, who were sitting on protest hunger strike outside the Bemina Medical College in Srinagar also broke their fast and decided to return to their duties. The medical interns had been demanding increase of their monthly stipend from Rs 12,300 to Rs 30,000. The protesting interns argued that despite the cost of living having risen manifold, the stipend had remained stagnant since 2019. Medical interns work in emergencies, OPDs, operation theatres and attend to in-hospital patients. They form an important part of the healthcare delivery system in J&K. Senior doctors had supported the demand of the medical interns. Bodies like the Doctors Association Kashmir (DAK), Jammu Kashmir Doctors Coordination Committee (JKDCC), and political figures supported the agitation, citing long working hours and the soaring cost of living.

Ayush intern doctors stage protest with posters and banners over stipend increase in Lucknow

A large number of Ayush intern doctors on Wednesday staged demonstrations with posters and banners over stipend increase in Lucknow. Ayush intern doctors protest at Hazratganj Gandhi statue and these doctors demanded Rs 25,000 stipend. Ayush intern doctor said: Our hard work is complete, the demand of 25,000 is necessary. Ayush intern doctors chanted slogans demanding stipend increase. These protesting doctors announced to continue protest till demands are met. Heavy police force deployed in Hazratganj during the demonstration of Ayush intern doctors.

ACB traps Treasury clerk for demanding, accepting Rs 20,000 bribe

Rajouri, Sept 09: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Wednesday trapped and arrested a clerk posted at Government Treasury Kalakot for allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 20,000. An official said that the accused clerk, identified as Khadam Hussain, was caught red-handed while accepting the bribe from a complainant. The official said that following a complaint regarding the alleged demand for illegal gratification, the ACB laid a trap and apprehended the accused during the transaction. He said the accused was taken into custody and a case has been registered in the matter, while further investigation is underway.(KNO)

BRS MLAs suspended from Telangana Assembly for rest of Monsoon Session

Digital Desk | Hyderabad, Sep 9 (IANS) Telangana Assembly Speaker, Gaddam Prasad Kumar, on Wednesday suspended Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) legislators from the House for the remainder of the Monsoon Session for disrupting the proceedings. The Speaker announced the suspension of MLAs after Minister for Legislative Affairs, D. Sridhar Babu, moved a motion. All 21 BRS members present in the House were suspended. They included BRS Working President K.T. Rama Rao and the partys Deputy Leader in Assembly T. Harish Rao. The members of the main Opposition party were suspended after they continued their protest, demanding a debate on the alleged manhandling of its women MLAs by police at the Assembly entrance on Monday. The BRS had moved an adjournment motion seeking discussion on police high-handedness against women MLAs, at a rally in the presence of police outside K.T. Rama Rao's residence, alleged threats from Congress MLAs and the deteriorating law and order situation in the state. As soon as the House met for the day, the BRS members demanded the Speaker to take up debate on their adjournment motion. The Speaker rejected the adjournment motion and suggested that BRS members raise the issue in another form. The BRS members raised slogans of We want justice and trooped into the Well of the House. Amid the din, minister Adluri Laxman raised the issue of alleged purification rituals performed by BRS leaders at a place in Siddipet where Dalits had staged a protest, condemning derogatory and abusive remarks made by BRS MLCs against Speaker Prasad Kumar. The minister said the matter should be discussed in the House as it relates to the self-respect of Telangana and highlights the continued discrimination against Dalits. Deputy Chief Minister, Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, supported the ministers demand and displayed pictures of BRS functionaries performing purification rituals. He expressed his ire at the BRS over their protest in the Well of the House. What justice do you want after insulting the honourable Speaker, asked the Deputy Chief Minister. The Deputy CM also accused BRS leaders of intimidating the Speaker and warned them that this would not be tolerated. The Speaker, Deputy CM and minister Sridhar Babu made repeated appeals to BRS members to resume their seats and allow the House to function in a smooth manner. As the BRS MLAs continued their protest, Sridhar Babu moved a motion for suspending them for the remainder of the session.

Don't ignore student anger over MPSC exam irregularities, warns Shiv Sena (UBT) in Saamana

Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 9 (IANS) Launching a sharp attack on the Maharashtra government over the controversy surrounding the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC), Shiv Sena (UBT) on Wednesday warned the state leadership against ignoring the growing anger among competitive exam aspirants, saying student resentment could have serious political consequences if unchecked. The Thackeray camp in the party mouthpiece Saamana editorial referred to thousands of competitive exam aspirants taking to the streets in major cities, including Pune, Kolhapur, Chhatrapati Sambhaginagar, and Amravati demanding the immediate removal of the MPSC's corrupt leadership, a thorough and impartial probe into the leak, and the enforcement of absolute transparency in competitive examinations. The editorial slammed the systemic corruption within the commission, pointing out the leak during the MPSC Drug Inspector recruitment exam. It alleged that government posts are being auctioned off for millions of rupees, effectively destroying the dreams of hard-working, honest aspirants. Criticising the police response, the Thackeray camp stated that while petty actors are being rounded up, the masterminds, ringleaders, and politically connected patrons behind the racket remain free under government protection. Selling exam papers for millions of rupees shatters the dreams of hardworking students aspiring for government jobs. While small-time operatives have been targeted, students express anger that key orchestrators and high-level backers of the paper leak syndicate remain free, it noted. Drawing a sharp parallel between political instability and institutional breakdown, the editorial asserted, Those sitting in the commission leak exam papers, while those sitting in government leak political parties, MLAs, and corporators. Both are in the same business. Protestors in Pune echoed this sentiment with posters asking: Have you been seated in power only to break MLAs? it asked. Pointing out Chief Minister Devendra Fadnaviss dominant influence over the states political landscape over the past decade, the editorial held the top leadership directly accountable for failing to curb paper leaks that continue to ruin young careers. The Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena condemned the state ministers for ignoring the agitating students and retreating into air-conditioned offices to interact with contractors. The editorial recalled the governance model under Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray during the Shiv Shahi era, where ministers were strictly instructed to step out, meet protestors face-to-face, and resolve public grievances on priority. In contrast, the current administration was described as acting like a passive, uncommunicative entity, completely detached from the concerns of the youth. The Thackeray camp demanded the immediate arrest of all perpetrators and masterminds involved in the paper leak scam. A government born out of splits and defections can yield nothing but leaks. Do not play with fire. If the rising tide of student rage turns into a wildfire, this broken government will be completely reduced to ashes, it remarked.

Mann must ask Cheema to resign, order impartial probe: Rahul on Punjab villager

New Delhi, Sep 9 (PTI) Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday lashed out at the AAP government in Punjab over the alleged suicide of a villager who questioned Finance Minister Harpal Cheema about the unabated supply of drugs, demanding that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann should immediately demand the ministers resignation and ensure an impartial investigation. The Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha further alleged that a dangerous pattern is emerging under the AAP government that if one questions failures, the response is in the form of threats and torture. Gulzar Singh, a 47-year-old Dalit from Dirba in Sangrur district,

Teenager Bouaddi Steals The Show For Manchester City In Champions League

Eighteen-year-old Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi delivered a commanding performance on his first start for Manchester City, helping them secure a 2-0 Champions League victory against Porto.

Dismissed Contract Driver Climbs 200-Foot Mobile Tower in Six-Hour Protest Demanding Reinstatement

Satya Niketan building collapse: Students allege death toll misreported, leave area amid demolition drive

Around 150 students begin indefinite protest demanding release of complete casualty data; hundreds vacate PGs and leave Satya Niketan with their belongings as authorities move against unsafe and illegal structures.

Aqua Avengers Kashmir beat Swift Strikers 3-1 in Kashmir Super League

Srinagar, Sep 8:Aqua Avengers Kashmir produced a commanding display of attacking football as they defeated Swift Strikers 3-1 in Match 5 of the Khyber Cement Kashmir Super League on Tuesday. Playing in front of an enthusiastic crowd, Aqua Avengers Kashmir, as per a statement, showed greater attacking intent from the outset, combining movement, pressure and clinical finishing to take control of the contest. Their three-goal performance proved decisive as they maintained their advantage and closed out the match with a convincing victory. Swift Strikers fought back and found the net once, giving themselves an opportunity to make a contest of the game. Aqua Avengers, however, responded with composure and continued to dictate the tempo, eventually securing a 3-1 result. The scoreline reflected a match in which Aqua Avengers Kashmir made their attacking opportunities count. Their ability to maintain pressure across the game and finish key chances separated the two sides on the night. The fixture also carried a strong off-field presence, with noted personalities from the Indian film industry and media attending the match as special guests.

Pregnant, Employed and Exhausted

Pregnancy is not an illness, and working women neither expect nor ask to be treated as patients. But pregnancy does bring genuine physical demands, and a humane workplace must recognise them. For many women employees in Kashmir, particularly those posted far from their homes, pregnancy can turn an ordinary working day into an exhausting journey. Some women travel 70 to 80 kilometres each way, changing buses more than once before reaching their place of work. They then complete a full working day, often without an adequate lunch break or a suitable place to rest, before undertaking the same long journey home. For a healthy person, such a routine is tiring. For a pregnant woman dealing with nausea, fatigue, backache, swelling, frequent urination or other common difficulties of pregnancy, it can become extremely demanding. The question we need to ask is simple: Can our posting and workplace policies be made more humane without compromising the functioning of our institutions? Surely, the answer is yes. Pregnant employees should, wherever administratively possible, be given temporary postings closer to their homes or at workplaces that are reasonably accessible. This should not be viewed as favouritism or special treatment. It is a reasonable accommodation during a temporary but important stage of a womans life. Particular consideration should also be given to night duties during pregnancy, especially where transport is difficult or adequate rest and medical facilities are unavailable. No woman should have to choose between protecting her pregnancy and fulfilling her professional responsibilities. Especially for medical and Para medical employees night duties are strenuous especially in tertiary care hospitals where doctors and paramedical staff work under enormous pressure for a pregnant women. This could be a nightmare risking her life as well as wellbeing of her baby increasing chances of abortion pre-term labour and bleeding during pregnancy which is an expensive price to pay. Night duties must be abolished for the pregnant women. The difficulties do not necessarily end with childbirth. Women who return to work while breastfeeding face another challenge. Many workplaces have no private, clean space for expressing breast milk, and sometimes even adequate breaks are difficult to obtain. A woman may therefore have to remain away from her infant for many hours without the basic facilities required to continue breastfeeding comfortably. Providing a small private lactation space and reasonable breaks does not require enormous expenditure. It requires awareness, sensitivity and administrative willingness. Kashmir has made significant progress in womens education and employment. Women today serve in hospitals, schools, offices and numerous other institutions, often balancing demanding professional responsibilities with responsibilities at home. Our workplace policies must evolve alongside this progress. This is not a demand that pregnant women should stop working. Quite the opposite. Women should be able to continue working with dignity and safely throughout pregnancy and after childbirth. Departments could consider clear guidelines allowing pregnant employees, particularly in the later months of pregnancy, to request temporary postings nearer their residences where feasible. Similar consideration could be given to nursing mothers for a reasonable period after they return from maternity leave. Workplaces should also ensure proper meal breaks, access to clean toilets, appropriate rest facilities and private lactation spaces. Such measures would not weaken workplace discipline. They would strengthen institutions by showing that efficiency and compassion can coexist. A society is often judged not only by the opportunities it gives women, but also by the conditions in which it expects them to exercise those opportunities. A woman travelling 70 or 80 kilometres during pregnancy, changing buses, working an entire day and returning home exhausted is not asking for privilege when she seeks a more reasonable posting. She is asking for reasonable accommodation, dignity and humanity. And that should not be too much to ask. Women carry future generations in their wombs; her wellbeing means healthy individuals and healthy individuals make robust societies and that should not be too much to ask. The author is Director Kashmir Assisted Reproductive Technology & Research Centre, Hyderpora Srinagar

Apple traders warn farmers against premature harvesting as market supply rises

Apple traders in south Kashmir have urged growers not to rush into harvesting their crop, warning that premature picking could increase arrivals in wholesale markets, put downward pressure on prices and affect the quality of fruit stored in controlled-atmosphere (CA) facilities. The warning comes as farmers in several parts of south Kashmir have begun harvesting early varieties, encouraged by relatively strong market prices. Traders, however, have cautioned that large-scale harvesting of unripe fruit could prove counterproductive by flooding wholesale markets before the main harvesting season gets underway. Mohammad Ashraf Wani, president of Fruit Mandi Shopian, appealed to CA storage operators not to accept prematurely harvested apples from growers. Farmers should avoid harvesting the fruit before it reaches maturity. Large arrivals of premature apples can affect the market and also create problems for storage, Wani said. He said growers in lower-lying areas had started harvesting Kullu Delicious and Delicious varieties several weeks ahead of their normal harvesting period. These varieties are normally harvested after September 25, but many farmers are picking them early because of the current prices, Wani said. Traders fear that if the trend continues on a large scale, increased arrivals could lead to an oversupply in wholesale markets just as harvesting gathers pace in higher-altitude areas. Peer Shabir Ahmad, an apple trader and cultivator, said premature harvesting could hurt both growers and the wider apple trade by bringing fruit to the market before it develops the quality required for prolonged storage and better returns. He urged growers to consider the longer-term implications of early harvesting rather than being guided solely by prevailing prices. The concern is particularly significant for Kashmirs storage-based apple trade, where a substantial quantity of fruit is stored in CA facilities and released gradually into the market. Traders said apples harvested before attaining proper maturity may not perform as well during prolonged storage as fully mature fruit. Apple cultivation remains one of the main pillars of Jammu and Kashmirs horticulture economy, supporting growers, traders, transporters, labourers and storage operators across the Valley. With harvesting beginning in some lower-lying areas, traders said maintaining the quality and timing of arrivals would be crucial to preventing an early glut from affecting prices. Farmers, meanwhile, are being encouraged to harvest early by the opportunity to take advantage of relatively higher prices before the main crop reaches the market. Traders cautioned that any immediate gains from premature harvesting could be offset by weaker prices, poor storage performance and reduced demand later in the season. They urged growers to follow the recommended maturity period for each variety and coordinate harvesting with market and storage requirements.

MBBS, BDS interns call off strike

Srinagar, Sep 08: The Jammu and Kashmir government on Tuesday said thestipend ofMBBS and BDS interns, who had been on strike for more than a week, would be finalised within a month based on the recommendations of the Stipend Enhancement Committee. The development came after a delegation of medical interns from various medical colleges across J&K called on Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakeena Itoo and sought enhancement of their monthly stipend. According to details issued by theoffice of the Health Minister,the meeting was attended by the Principal, Government Medical College Srinagar; Deputy Director Planning, representing the Director Health Services Kashmir; and medical interns. The delegation apprised the minister of the existing stipend structure and highlighted the need for a suitable revision,keeping in viewthe nature of their duties, workload and responsibilities in the healthcare system. The ministergave a patient hearing to the delegationand observed that the concerns raised by the medical interns deserved due consideration. She said the Governmenthadremained mindful of issues concerning medical interns and was sensitive to their legitimate concerns. Sakeena Itoo informed the delegation that the matter was already under consideration and that a committee had been constituted to examine the issue comprehensively. She said the constitution of the committee reflected the seriousness with which the Government was addressing the matter and its intent to arrive at a considered and appropriate decision. It was also observed that the matter needed to be brought to a logical conclusion expeditiously so that the valuable time and academic and professional responsibilities of the interns were not adversely affected and hospital services and patient care continued uninterrupted. After detailed deliberations, it was decided that the matter would be finalised within 30 days on the basis of the recommendations of the Stipend Enhancement Committee and keeping in view the legitimate interests and concerns of the medical interns. In view of the above, the medical interns agreed to resume their duties forthwith, in the larger interest of patient care and also to safeguard their academic and professional interests, according to details. Meanwhile, medical interns across Jammu and Kashmir have put their ongoing strike on hold for one month following the assurance from the Health Minister, All India Medical Students Association (AIMSA) J&K president Dr Mohammad Momin Khan said. Theywill resume their dutiesfromWednesday. AIMSA president expressed gratitude to Sakeena Itoo for giving the interns one months time to finalise the stipend enhancement issue and thanked all those who supported the protesting intern doctors during the agitation. The interns had initially rejected the proposed one-month timeline and continued their agitation, insisting that the stipend enhancement be formally notified through a government order. The protest subsequently intensified, with interns at SKIMS Medical College, Bemina, announcing a 48-hour hunger strike on September 7 in the absence of a formal order on the stipend revision. The interns have been demanding an increase in their monthly stipend paid during their one-year mandatory internship after completing MBBS or BDS from medical colleges. In July last year, the Health Minister had stated that there would be an increase in the stipend very soon and that the file was under process. Since then, students and medical associations had repeatedly raised the issue with the authorities, pointing out that the stipend had not been revised for the past seven years. In February 2026, the issue was also raised in the J&K Legislative Assembly. The Government had acknowledged that a committee constituted in 2023 had recommended an enhancement, while the proposal was still awaiting the required financial concurrence.

Intern Doctors at Hamidia Hospital to Strike, Demand Stipend Increase

Intern doctors at Hamidia Hospital in Bhopal announce a complete OPD shutdown, demanding a stipend increase to 30,000 and compensation for injured protesters. Intern Doctors at Hamidia Hospital to Strike, Demand Stipend Increase

Gadchiroli villagers oppose former Maoist leader's appointment as Gram Sabha coordinator by varsity

Gondwana University has sparked significant backlash by appointing a former Maoist leader as the coordinator for gram sabhas in Gadchiroli. Many local residents, who have suffered from the atrocities of Maoist violence, feel deeply betrayed by this decision. In response, they've submitted a memorandum to the collector demanding the appointment be revoked. If their concerns aren't addressed, villagers are prepared to initiate protests against the universitys controversial decision.

BJP's Gaurav Bhatia Files 2 Crore Defamation Case Against CJP Leaders Over Controversial X Post

BJP spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia has filed a 2 crore defamation case against the leadership of satirical outfit Cockroach Janta Party. The case names CJP national convener Abhijeet Dipke and co-conveners Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka. The legal action follows a bitter social media dispute after Das shared a post alleging Bhatia called right-wing influencer Swatantra Bhardwaj a dimagi naxal. Das later deleted the AI-generated post but refused to apologise. The controversy also follows CJPs protest demanding Bhardwajs arrest over an alleged assault during a June 23 protest.

Kataka Set for a Major Makeover: KDA Approves Decongestion Plan, New Kapda Mandi, and Affordable Housing

Discover the key decisions from the 144th Kataka Development Authority (KDA) meeting, including city decongestion plans, affordable housing, the Mahanadi Riverfront, and a new Kapda Mandi. The post Kataka Set for a Major Makeover: KDA Approves Decongestion Plan, New Kapda Mandi, and Affordable Housing appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

Weavers take out rally in Virudhunagar district demanding govt. to hike wages

Irregular job orders and the shortage of yarn has left them without work and income for nearly four months, and seek higher wages, 10,000 financial assistance and implementation of the promised 3,000 pension, say weavers

Rise in sexual violence incidents expose dangers faced by women in Pakistan: Report

Digital Desk | Islamabad, Sep 8 (IANS) A rise in sexual violence incidents against women has exposed the dangers faced by women in Pakistan and the failure of the institutions meant to protect them. These incidents of sexual violence against women involve both educated and uneducated men committing crimes like sexual assault, rape, torture and killings. On August 20, a 45-year-old woman was found dead at her residence in Pakistan's Rawalpindi with signs of torture. Her husband, Faisal Asghar Imam, a university medical professor and domestic worker were arrested in the domestic abuse case, according to a report in Australia-based 'Pearls and Irritations'. With the recent rise in crimes, it is clearly visible how Pakistani womens lives are increasingly under siege. In Quetta, Dr Mahnoor Nasir was attacked with acid inside Sandeman Provincial Hospital after rejecting a mans advances, leaving her with severe burns and symbolising the lack of safety of professional women even in workplaces which are meant to be safe, wrote Pakistani writer and researcher Anam Zahra. Another heinous crime took place in Lahore, where an 18-year-old domestic worker was raped repeatedly by her employer's son and driver. She later died after a forced abortion. In another case, a woman was killed by her 64-year-old husband after she was not ready for marital relations, exposing the patriarchal mindset to control women's body in domestic spaces, the report in Pearls and Irritations mentioned. If you ask Pakistans women about their opinion regarding the countrys law and security measures for womens protection, the majority would express their deep disappointment and pessimism. The law of the country favours the rich and criminals in a way that justice for the victim is a mere fiction, wrote Zahra. Despite a rise in cases of sexual crimes against women, Pakistan has no mechanism to ensure the safety and well-being of its women. Pakistan does not have helplines or a functional monitoring system which operates with emergency responsiveness that could save thousands of women who are beaten to death within domestic spaces and outside their homes. In June, Pakistan was ranked last globally in the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Report 2025. Pakistan's overall gender parity score also dropped from 57 per cent in 2024 to 56.7 per cent in 2025. These numbers, a report detailed, showcase the inequalities faced by women in Pakistan regularly across economic participation and independence, social freedoms, political representation, education, health and personal agency and autonomy. Statistics and lived experiences point toward inequalities, where violence against women is widespread. For women and young girls, navigating public spaces remains challenging even after decades of legislation, womens rights activism, and work by several organisations, both domestic and international, like UN Women in Pakistan, Oxfam and so on. Yet, gender disparity, discussions of womens rights and violence against women are among some of the most contentious subjects in Pakistan, Mariyam Suleman Anees, a Pakistan-based freelance writer, wrote in The Diplomat. Educational institutions, workplaces, markets, public transport, and even the home, which is often regarded as the safest place none has spared women from violence. Earlier this month, a woman doctor on duty in a public hospital in Balochistans capital of Quetta was brutally attacked with acid by the hospitals lift operator, wrote Anees. Following the incident, protests erupted in several parts of Pakistan, demanding the safety of working women, a ban on the sale of acid and the implementation of anti-acid attack legislation. According to The Diplomat report, Pakistan has no official statistics about acid attacks. According to World Bank data, women only comprise 22 per cent of total labour force in Pakistan. Economic exclusion is a major hindrance and cases like the recent acid attack on a female doctor inside the hospital further discourage women from pursuing professional careers.

Sub-Registrar caught by ACB for demanding Rs 90,000 bribe

Hyderabad: Two people, including a government officer, were caught by the Telangana Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) for allegedly demanding a bribe of Rs 90,000 in Narayanpet, Mahabubnagar district, on Tuesday, September 8. Sub-Registrar Grade-II L Venkat Swamy demanded the money from the complainant, who had come for home registration work. The government officer had already accepted 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 .

Congress Accuses AAP of Fostering Chaos and Criminal Ties in Punjab

Congress claims AAP has failed to address drug issues and is linked to notorious gangsters in Punjab, demanding accountability from the state finance minister. Congress Accuses AAP of Fostering Chaos and Criminal Ties in Punjab

Persons with disabilities stage protest demanding increase in assistance

They want the assistance to be increased from 1,500 to 6,000. They pointed out that the assistance of 1,500 was not sufficient for even two doctors visits as travel, medicines, and consultation fee alone would take most of it

Naman Dhir Blazes 173 Off 64 in Batting Masterclass, Misses Double Century

Naman Dhir hit a batting masterclass in Sher-e-Punjab League 2026, launching a spectacular 173 off just 64 balls, as Amritsar Soormas posted a commanding 67-run victory over Mohali Kings. The 18th match was all Dhir, as he walked out to open

Protests Erupt in Hazaribagh Over Alleged Irregularities in JPSC-JSSC Exams

Former Chief Minister Raghuvar Das leads protests in Hazaribagh, demanding a CBI inquiry into alleged exam irregularities and withdrawal of cases against students. Protests Erupt in Hazaribagh Over Alleged Irregularities in JPSC-JSSC Exams

Benchmark I set for myself was high: Akash Madhwal on life after his IPL 5/5

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 8 (IANS) Akash Madhwal has acknowledged that his sensational 5/5 for Mumbai Indians against Lucknow Super Giants in the 2023 IPL brought both a career boost and heightened expectations, with the pacer admitting that the benchmark he set for himself became a demanding one to maintain. Madhwal's five-wicket haul in the IPL playoff remains the defining performance of his career, but he insists he has never viewed it as the end point of his journey. We cannot spend our entire cricket journey on just one performance. The best milestones come so we can set new records, break our own milestones, and raise our own benchmarks. I never took my 5/5 lightly. Even after that, I have prepared a lot so that I can do better, set a better record, and do something better. It is not that we take what has already happened. Our hard work is for our own betterment, Madhwal told IANS in an exclusive interaction on Tuesday. Looking back at the impact of that performance, Madhwal admitted that both the attention and the expectations that followed were significant. Both of these things happened to me, literally. The benchmark I set for myself was high, so people had very high expectations from me. Additionally, since I was playing in the IPL, I knew I had to perform better and improve. Both these factors were present with me, and I believe they both influenced me, Madhwal added. His route to the IPL was itself unconventional. Unlike many fast bowlers who enter the professional system at a young age, Madhwal first studied engineering and took up a job before pursuing cricket seriously. Sometimes I feel I should have started earlier, and then I feel it's God's plan. Whatever God has given is what you will get. But it is what it is. First, I studied engineering, then I took a job. After that, I started playing cricket. It was also because our state got an affiliation in 2019. Before that, we didn't have an affiliation. So, when I got an affiliation, I got a chance to play after a year. After that, I started playing professionally, he stated. Despite wondering at times about what his career could have looked like had he started earlier, Madhwal believes his journey unfolded according to a larger plan. But yeah, its God's plan. Whatever God wants happens, he said. That belief has also helped keep his focus on the game rather than on the years he may have lost by entering professional cricket late. Madhwal said the passion that drove him from tennis-ball cricket into professional cricket remains unchanged, and that his India ambition continues to motivate him. I just want to tell myself that. I never want to leave the thing I am very attached to. And the dream of playing for India is still inside me. Its just a matter of one good season that will lead me up to the top, he said.

Army Soldier Abducted in Rajasthan, Ransom Demand of

An army soldier was abducted in Rajasthan, with kidnappers demanding a ransom of 10 lakh from his family. Army Soldier Abducted in Rajasthan, Ransom Demand of 10 Lakh Made

Yogi Adityanath Offers Prayers at Ayodhya's Ram Mandir

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited the historic Ram Mandir in Ayodhya to offer prayers and review ongoing developmental projects in the holy city.

Dehradun T20 League providing important platform for Uttarakhand cricketers: Madhwal

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 8 (IANS) Uttarakahand pacer Akash Madhwal believes tournaments such as the ongoing Dehradun T20 League are providing local cricketers with valuable opportunities to showcase their abilities as they prepare for the demanding domestic season ahead. Madhwal, who is leading Mussoorie Thunders in the competition, said players from the state are approaching the tournament with the same intensity they would bring to an IPL or an India game. First of all, as players, we have to prove ourselves in every game. We do not approach the game lightly. Whenever we go to play, we enter the ground. For us, every game is like an Indian game, like an IPL game, whatever cricket we are playing, Madhwal told IANS in an exclusive interaction on Tuesday. The Uttarakhand pacer also underlined the growth of cricket infrastructure and opportunities in the state, pointing to the increasing number of tournaments being organised for players. And secondly, the cricket happening here in Uttarakhand used to be very limited before. Now, there are very good platforms. For example, this is our third district tournament, and it is being held at such a high level. And thanks to CAU, our association, which is giving us so much cricket, he said. Madhwal believes the increased exposure is particularly important for young cricketers looking to make their way into professional cricket. After this, our major tournament is coming up, the UPL, the Uttarakhand Premier League. So, all these platforms are very important for us as senior players and for all the youngsters who want to play. Because all this is happening live and someone is watching us from somewhere, he said. Whatever is happening, thanks to CAU and thanks to Uttarakhand Cricket, we are getting very good cricket. And we are trying to encourage more players like me to come forward, make Uttarakhand proud, and do well in their cricket journey, Madhwal added. The 32-year-old said the Dehradun T20 League is also helping players carry the work done during the off-season into competitive matches. As I told you earlier, as cricketers, we approach every game in the same way as the big games. So, the off-season practice we have done, we apply it in our games, he said. Madhwal also pointed to the difficult weather conditions in Uttarakhand, particularly during the monsoon, which can restrict the amount of competitive cricket available to players. As you know, for all the tournaments we have, the conditions are not that good here in Uttarakhand. The monsoon arrives very early and lasts a long time. So, in all the cricket we play, we have the same mindset: we want to stick to our game plan and play for our state in the IPL or the Syed Mushtaq Ali. So, we have the same approach here, he said. With Uttarakhand set to enter the Ranji Trophy season, Madhwal feels the current competition can also serve as useful preparation for the domestic campaign, particularly with home matches scheduled to be played in familiar conditions. Yes, definitely. We have the Ranji Trophy season next. We have a home-and-away season. So, all the home matches will be played here, he said. The conditions here, including the pitch and the weather, will help us in the tournament we are playing here. It will help us in our season. We will get to know the overall condition of the pitch. It will help us in some way, Madhwal added.

Saif Ali Khan opens up on Haiwaan's intense action scene: I had to lie down for two days

Saif Ali Khan is set to explore a different kind of action role in Haiwaan. The actor plays a visually impaired character in the upcoming film, but his character is still involved in a physically demanding fight sequence. Saif revealed that his character is trained in martial arts and faces a brutal situation before fighting back. In the scene, his character is tortured, kicked and slapped before eventually retaliating against those attacking him. The sequence was reportedly filmed without body doubles, CGI or extensive camera tricks, giving it a raw and realistic feel. Stunt choreographer Silva designed the action sequence, which involved broken glass and damaged furniture. Saif admitted that filming the scene was physically exhausting and that he needed to rest for two days after completing it. Speaking with Pinkvilla, Saif Ali Khan explained, It's a scene with a great build-up because the characters torture and bash up my character, kicking and slapping him. As an audience, you want him to retaliate, which he eventually does. I thought I was alright but I was exhausted because that is how intense the action scene was. It wasn't CGI or harness-backed action scenes; the fight scene is just raw. It was really lots of fun to perform. He further recalled the challenges involved in filming the sequence, saying, Silva really choreographed that fight, and there were no special effects added to it, there were no duplicates. There's very little fakery in these scenes. The room has broken glass everywhere. It was very raw and kind of violent, and it was utterly exhausting because after that I had to lie down for two days. Interestingly, the Haiwaan team did not conduct any separate workshops or special training sessions for the action sequences. Instead, Saif rehearsed the fight with Silva before filming. The actor recalled how the set was left with broken glass from photo frames and damaged cupboards after the sequence. While the cast managed to avoid major injuries, Saif noted that minor cuts and bruises were part of the demanding shoot. According to Saif, the action sequence works because it is closely connected to the story. His character is subjected to mistreatment, creating a situation where the audience is expected to root for him to fight back. He also credited Silva for choreographing and executing the sequence effectively. Haiwaan marks Saif Ali Khan's first collaboration with director Priyadarshan. The film also reunites Saif with Akshay Kumar after 18 years. Also Read : Saif Ali Khan joins Magnum by Safari as brand ambassador; luggage brand unveils new association

Punjab BJP delegation calls on Guv, seeks probe into suicide over drug issue, 'custodial assault'

Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Sep 8 (IANS) A delegation of the Punjab BJP, led by state President Kewal Singh Dhillon, on Tuesday met Governor Gulab Chand Kataria and submitted a memorandum, seeking impartial action in two serious cases related to Sangrur -- first, the suicide by Gulzar Singh over the state drug crisis and another, the alleged custodial assault of Mohanjit Singh. Dhillon said Gulzar Singh had raised the issue of the alleged open sale of chitta (synthetic drug) in his area during a public meeting held by Finance Minister Harpal Cheema and had sought action against the drug menace. He said Gulzar Singhs family had also been facing difficulties due to his sons alleged serious addiction to chitta. The BJP said in a video purportedly recorded before his death, Gulzar Singh had named the Finance Minister and others, whom he allegedly held responsible for the circumstances leading to his death. The party demanded that the case should not be treated merely as a suicide case and that the allegations made by Gulzar Singh should be thoroughly investigated in accordance with law. The delegation sought a CBI probe into his death to ensure an independent investigation. It also demanded that video recordings, relevant communications and statements of family members be preserved as evidence. State President Dhillon also brought the alleged custodial assault of Mohanjit Singh to the Governors notice. Dhillon said Mohanjit Singh was detained after he protested against the state governments handling of the drug menace during Chief Minister Bhagwant Manns visit to Sangrur. The party said Mohanjit Singh subsequently alleged physical abuse and custodial torture and had to undergo medical treatment. The BJP demanded registration of FIRs against all civil officials who allegedly ordered or authorised Mohanjit Singhs removal from the protest site, as well as against police officials found responsible for his removal, assault or alleged custodial torture. It also sought an independent CBI probe into the matter and demanded immediate preservation of medical records, CCTV footage, police station records, duty rosters, official communications and all other records related to his detention. The BJP also announced that it would stage statewide protests on Wednesday demanding justice in both cases.

Karnataka CM Shivakumar orders action against co-op society Secretary after 93 farmers crop insurance claims rejected (Lead)

Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Sep 8 (IANS) Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Tuesday directed officials to dismiss the Secretary of a cooperative society for allegedly failing to deposit crop insurance premiums paid by farmers with the District Central Cooperative (DCC) Bank, resulting in the rejection of insurance claims of 93 farmers. Shivakumar issued the direction after a farmer from Ittanahalli village in Jewargi taluk of Belagavi district approached him and complained that the insurance premiums paid by the farmers through a self-help society had not been remitted to the DCC Bank. As a result, the farmers had received messages informing them that their crop insurance claims had been rejected. The Chief Minister, who was on a surprise visit to the Yeshwanthpur APMC market here early in the morning, examined the list of farmers who had paid their insurance premiums and directed officials to take action against the society secretary for the alleged negligence. During his visit, Shivakumar interacted with onion, garlic, potato, and coconut growers, traders and mandi owners at the market and sought details about the problems faced by farmers. The Chief Minister questioned farmers about several issues, including whether they were being stopped by police while transporting their produce, whether they were receiving payments on time, whether market intermediaries were charging commissions, the cost of cultivation per acre and whether their produce was being weighed accurately. He also personally checked the weighing of onions at the market. Farmers told Shivakumar that traders in markets in Kalaburagi, Bidar, and Vijayapura charged commissions of Rs 8 to Rs 10, while traders at the Yeshwanthpur APMC market did not charge them a commission. This, they said, was one of the reasons they preferred bringing their produce to Yeshwanthpur. The farmers also said inadequate rainfall this year had severely affected onion production. Normally, they harvest around 150 to 200 bags of onions per acre, but this year the yield had fallen to around 50 bags. They said excessive rainfall could also cause onions to rot in the fields, while transporting the produce to the market could become economically unviable if prices failed to cover transportation costs. A farmer from Challakere taluk in Chitradurga district told the Chief Minister that although he had paid Rs 6,500 per hectare towards crop insurance, he had not received any benefit under the scheme. After hearing the complaint, Shivakumar directed officials to collect the farmers details and examine the matter. Several farmers appreciated Shivakumar for visiting the APMC market and listening to their grievances. Over the last 30 years, no Minister or Chief Minister has come to the market to enquire about farmers problems. It is very satisfying to see you personally visiting the market and reviewing the situation, a farmer told him. Shivakumar also interacted with mandi traders and asked them how much they were paying to the APMC. One trader said they were paying 60 paise for every Rs 100, while another said the payment was Rs 1 for every Rs 100. The Chief Minister warned traders against collecting any additional amount from farmers. If anyone is collecting more money, inform me. I will take action against them, he said. Shivakumar also raised concerns about traders who purchase agricultural produce directly from farmers without bringing it to the APMC market. He said some traders allegedly fix a price and then manipulate the weight while purchasing produce directly from farmers. The Chief Minister directed officials to ensure that traders purchasing directly from farmers do not resort to any manipulation in weighing the produce. During his interaction with Anjanappa, an onion farmer from Hosahatti village in Kudligi, Shivakumar asked about the availability of water for cultivation. The farmer said he had constructed a house on his agricultural land and had applied three times for an electricity connection, but had not received one. He added that several other houses in the area were facing a similar problem. Shivakumar directed officials to collect the details and assured the farmer that the issue would be resolved. You need not worry. Electricity connections will be provided to everyone, he said, adding that people facing such problems could submit applications during his public service programmes. The Chief Minister also enquired whether the women in the farmers families were receiving Rs 2,000 per month and 10 kg of rice under the State governments guarantee schemes. The farmers said they were receiving the benefits and that the schemes had provided them considerable relief. After the inspection, CM Shivakumar posted a video of the surprise visit on his X handle, captioning it: Responding to the Voice of Farmers and Traders.

ABVP Launches Justice March in Delhi Demanding Safer Student Housing

In response to a tragic building collapse, ABVP demands justice and enhanced safety measures for student housing in Delhi. ABVP Launches Justice March in Delhi Demanding Safer Student Housing

'Bengal Doesn't Need To Experiment With The Bulldozer'

'We have a very demanding electorate which expects us to do something. So we will have to do something which is a bit out of the ordinary while at the same time keeping in mind the risk factors.'

Watch: Sacred Mahadipa Alati Performed at Shrimandir on Ekadashi

The sacred Mahadipa Alati was performed at Shrimandir on Ekadashi. After being sanctified before Lord Jagannatha, the Mahadipa was taken to the temples top following the Alati.

Justice For Vikram: Protests Erupt In Delhi After Manipuri Musician Allegedly Beaten To Death

Members of Delhis Northeast community and civil society groups took to the streets demanding justice after musician Chongtham Vikram Singhs death.

Leaders' Arrest Over Remarks On Speaker Triggers BRS vs Congress Fight

Scores of Congress workers and Dalit activists on Tuesday marched towardsBRSpresident K Chandrasekhar Rao's farmhouse at Erravelli, demanding an apology over the comments.

GMC Anantnag interns condemn show-cause notices to student representatives

Anantnag, Sep 08: MBBS Interns of the Government Medical College Anantnag strongly condemned the issuance of a show-cause notice to the two student representatives- Dr. Mohammad Akib Javid and Dr. Runga Zamin Javaid- in connection with the ongoing interns protest for their legitimate stipend demands. In a statement, the MBBS interns said, It is deeply concerning that, out of the entire group of protesting interns, the administration has chosen to issue the notice specifically to the two representatives who have been communicating the collective concerns of the interns. We believe that raising genuine grievances and representing fellow students cannot be equated with gross indiscipline or professional misconduct, it added. The notice issued by the medical college warns of the possibility of curtailment, temporary suspension and even cancellation of internship. Reacting to the move, the interns said that such a language is extremely intimidating and has created a sense of fear among interns who are simply demanding their legitimate rights. They said that student representation is not misconduct and raising legitimate concerns is not an act of indiscipline. They urged authorities to engage with the representatives through dialogue rather than threatening them with punitive action. We remain respectful of the institution and the authorities, but respect must be mutual, the statement said. The internee students appealed to the administration and the concerned authorities to withdraw the notice and resolve the stipend issue through meaningful dialogue rather than coercion or intimidation. Our representatives will not be abandoned. We stand united, and our demand for justice, dignity and a fair stipend will continue peacefully and democratically, the students said.

Students protest in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar against MPSC paper leak, check their demands

A large number of students preparing for MPSC competitive examinations gathered at Kranti Chowk to protest against MPSC paper leaks. The students chanted slogans demanding transparency in the examination system.The students demanded the resignation of the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) chairman. Students say incidents like paper leaks affect the confidence of thousands of candidates who have worked hard and prepared for the exams and have a direct impact on their future.

Maratha quota stir: Jarange agrees to IV fluids as health deteriorates on 11th day of fast

Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange began his latest hunger strike on August 29, demanding reservation for the Maratha community under the OBC category

MPSC paper leak: Aspirants protest in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, seek probe

Scores of MPSC aspirants staged a protest in Maharashtra's Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar on Tuesday, alleging widespread corruption and paper leaks, and demanded a high-level probe into the recent recruitment examinations. Protesters gathered at the Kranti Chowk area of the city, demanding the immediate appointment of officers with a clean image to the top posts in the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC). A similar march was held in Pune on Monday. ''An efficient officer with a clean image like (state FDA commissioner) Tukaram Mundhe should be posted to MPSC; only then students will get justice. We come from families of farmers and come here to study and fulfil the dreams of our parents, one of the protesting aspirants said. The Mumbai Crime Branch is investigating a question paper leak involving the MPSC Drug Inspector (Group-B) screening examination held in March. The police have arrested seven persons, including a female candidate who had secured seventh rank in the exam

BAPS apologizes for demanding a Ladyless staff at Eiffel Tower visit

After the Eiffel Tower was closed amid a staff strike over alleged discrimination, Hindu group BAPS issued an apology, but maintained that no one was denied access. Earlier, The employees protested against the removal of the site's female workers ...

'My Best Game Comes Under Pressure': Ishan On Record-breaking 270 In Duleep Trophy Final

Duleep Trophy Final: India batter and East Zone captain Ishan Kishan believes the pressure of big matches brings out the best in him, as he reflected on his monumental 270 in the Duleep Trophy final against South Zone at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Kishan produced one of the finest knocks in Duleep Trophy history, smashing 270 off 334 balls with 30 fours and seven sixes to help East Zone post a mammoth 708 in their first innings. His knock is the eighth-highest individual score in the history of the competition. Speaking in a BCCI video ahead of the start of Day 3, Kishan said he thrives in situations where the stakes are high and pressure is mounting. I think when its a big match, theres a kind of pressure. And I feel that in that pressure, my best game comes, because when youre batting, youre a little nervous, but at the same time, youre aggressive too. Youre watching; if you get the ball, youll hit it. So I think its a very good mixture of calm and being aggressive. So it works a lot for me when there are such stages, where either the wickets have fallen early. Whenever Im in such situations, I enjoy it a lot, Kishan said. Kishans approach during the marathon innings was built around patience and playing according to the situation rather than chasing personal milestones. He said he constantly broke the teams target into smaller goals while batting. Rather than thinking about your own batting, you have your team goal. What will benefit the team? So when you move forward according to that, your batting becomes very good. If the total has reached 400 now, lets do 450 first. Then lets do 450 to 500. So, you know, this is a process that you go through, Kishan said. The left-hander also explained how he dealt with the challenging conditions and a softening ball at Chepauk, where the large boundaries demanded considerable effort from the batters. Its very difficult. You have to put in a lot of effort to hit shots. The boundary on one side was very big. The ball was getting soft in between. So you had to put in a lot of effort for the boundary, Kishan said. Kishan also revealed how he adjusted his technique against Mohammad Siraj, particularly when the pacer attempted to unsettle him with short deliveries. When Siraj was putting in, I was batting more bent down. It wasnt to tackle the bouncer. But it was to avoid throwing the wicket. If I go to hit it and get out somewhere, he said. Kishan initially shared a major partnership with Kumar Kushagra, who scored 101 off 132 balls, before continuing his assault against a tiring South Zone attack. Kushagras dismissal for 101 came shortly before lunch, but Kishan continued to dominate, reaching his double century off 270 balls. He then accelerated further and moved beyond 250 before briefly retiring due to fatigue. He returned to the crease after Mohammed Shamis quickfire 28 and attempted to push towards a rare triple century. However, with wickets falling at the other end, Kishan was eventually caught near the long-on boundary for 270, leaving him 30 runs short of the landmark. Reflecting on the innings, Kishan said the quality of his strokeplay gave him confidence throughout the long stay at the crease. He returned to the crease after Mohammed Shamis quickfire 28 and attempted to push towards a rare triple century. However, with wickets falling at the other end, Kishan was eventually caught near the long-on boundary for 270, leaving him 30 runs short of the landmark. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories East Zones mammoth total has also put them in a commanding position in the final, with South Zone facing a daunting task against the side led by their inspirational captain. Article Source: IANS

What is Amit Shah's MHA doing to Stop Growing Lawlessness: Rahul After Manipuri Musician Beaten to Death

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday lashed out at the Modi government over the beating to death of a musician from Manipur here, asking what Home Minister Amit Shah's ministry is doing to stop this growing lawlessness and demanding a swift

'One District, One Mafia' had become UP's identity before 2017, says CM Yogi

Digital Desk | Lucknow, Sep 8 (IANS) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday said the situation in the state before 2017 was marked by poor law and order, widespread criminal activities, and the dominance of mafia elements, with 'One District, One Mafia' becoming its identity. Addressing the two-day 'UP Textile Conclave-2026', the Chief Minister welcomed entrepreneurs, investors, exporters, traditional weavers, handloom operators, industry representatives, and young people associated with the textile sector. First of all, I extend a heartfelt welcome and greetings to all the distinguished entrepreneurs, investors and exporters from the textile sector across the country, as well as traditional weavers, handloom operators, all the dignitaries and young friends who see their future in this sector, he said. Highlighting Uttar Pradesh's long-standing textile traditions, the Chief Minister said the state's textile heritage had historical links with India's cultural and economic development. He said that when gifts of clothing were presented by the King of Kashi at Yudhishthira's Rajasuya Yagya, ancient texts such as the Mahabharata made references to silk and pure cotton garments. Also referring to the period of Lord Ram's exile, he said religious scriptures mention Mata Janaki receiving divine garments at a sage's ashram. The textiles produced in India, particularly those made in Uttar Pradesh, were not only in demand in India but also in markets around the world, he said. If you look at Roman culture or Greek culture, there was a huge demand there as well for these textiles made in India and Uttar Pradesh. This means that the tradition of sending these products from here to other places existed even then, the Chief Minister said. He also highlighted several major textile and manufacturing centres across the state, including Varanasi's silk sarees, Bhadohi's carpets, Lucknow's chikankari, and Kanpur's textile, leather, and industrial manufacturing ecosystem. CM Adityanath also mentioned Agra's footwear and allied manufacturing sector, Sitapur's textile manufacturing capabilities, and Meerut's sports goods industry and the potential for technical textiles. These are not merely textile clusters of Uttar Pradesh. They represent different facets of Uttar Pradesh's textile heritage and industrial capabilities. These different facets visible across different regions draw our attention to the potential of the textile sector in Uttar Pradesh, he said. Recalling the situation in Uttar Pradesh before 2017, Adityanath claimed the state's law and order situation was in disarray and alleged that mafia groups had established parallel systems of governance in several districts. Friends, what the situation in Uttar Pradesh was like before 2017 is not hidden from anyone. Law and order in the state was in disarray, he said. In every district, a parallel government run by the mafia operated. In other words, 'One District, One Mafia' had become the identity of Uttar Pradesh. Across the state, the industries of murder, extortion, illegal occupation, goon tax, and kidnapping were flourishing. Professional mafias and goons operated their own system parallel to the government, he claimed. He further alleged that the prevailing environment had affected the safety of women, traders and potential investors. At that time, neither daughters were safe, nor traders were safe. Investors would come from outside with dreams of doing business and return with a slip of paper from the mafia demanding payment, Adityanath claimed. The Chief Minister also alleged that festivals and celebrations could not be conducted peacefully because of frequent disturbances and riots. No festival or celebration could be held peacefully. In other words, disturbances would begin before the festivities. Across the state, there would be a major riot every third day, with the entire state engulfed in the flames of riots. Major riots took place in Bareilly, Kosi Kalan in Mathura, Muzaffarnagar and Saharanpur on a large scale, he said. He said prolonged curfews and the closure of educational institutions and markets had a direct impact on economic activity. Curfews would remain in place for months. Schools and colleges would be closed. If there was a curfew, the markets would remain closed, and if the markets remained closed, business would inevitably come to a standstill. People could not even leave their homes. And when such a situation exists, the economy cannot move forward. A perception had taken hold, the Chief Minister said. He said Uttar Pradesh had also acquired a negative perception because of poor infrastructure and inadequate lighting in several areas. I always mention this point: before 2017, Uttar Pradesh had come to be perceived as a place where, once the roads became bad and darkness began as soon as evening arrived, you could assume that you had entered the borders of Uttar Pradesh. This was the situation in Uttar Pradesh before 2017, he said.

Protests Erupt In Delhi Over Murder Of Manipuri Musician; Congress MP Targets Modi Govt

Delhi Police have arrested seven people, along with a juvenile, in connection with the death of Manipuri musician Vikram Singh in southeast Delhi. The 54-year-old, who lived in Kilokari village for several years, allegedly suffered a fatal assault after objecting to a group of delivery workers and dhaba staff shouting and drinking outside his apartment. Singh was rushed to Holy Family Hospital by his son Yaiphaba but later succumbed to his injuries. Police have identified the arrested accused as Bharat Kumar, Pramod, Ramzan Khan, Deepanshu, Mohan Vishwakarma, Vijay and Mannu, along with the juvenile. Following the incident, people from Manipur held a protest and candlelight march in Delhi, demanding justice and strict action. Police have also obtained CCTV footage and launched an investigation.

Tamil Nadu Assembly: DMK MLAs evicted after sit-in protest demanding expunction of CM Vijays remarks on Sarkaria Commission, MISA

The DMK members, insisting that the remarks made by CM Vijay on Monday be expunged, moved towards the Speakers chair and staged a sit-in

Ruckus in TN assembly over CM's remark; DMK MLAs evicted

A major political confrontation unfolded in the Tamil Nadu assembly as DMK MLAs were evicted after demanding the expunction of Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's statement.

Tamil Nadu Assembly witnesses uproar over CM Vijay's ED remarks, DMK MLAs evicted

Ruckus broke out in the Tamil Nadu Assembly on Tuesday after Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) MLAs raised slogans demanding that Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's statement, based on Enforcement Directorate (ED) documents, be expunged from the records. Speaker JCD Prabhakar rejected the demand, following which the main opposition MLAs were evicted from the House.

Eiffel Tower-BAPS row in Paris explained

The Eiffel Tower was closed to visitors on Monday after staff walked out over claims that female employees were sidelined during a private visit by a BAPS delegation. The monument was expected to reopen on Tuesday after talks between workers and management.Here is what is known so far.What happened during the visit?Around 100 members of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) visited the Eiffel Tower on Saturday, September 5. The delegation was in France for events linked to the inauguration of a BAPS Hindu temple near Paris, according to Reuters.The Eiffel Towers operating company, SETE, said the delegation had asked for the visit to be organised in a way that limited interactions with women. SETE acknowledged that the request had been accepted but said these conditions should not have been accepted, according to AFP. The dispute concerns instructions given to Eiffel Tower employees during the visit. Staff representatives said some female workers were asked to leave their workstations, move to other areas or avoid specific parts of the tower. In some locations, they were replaced by male colleagues.Diane Davoine, a union representative, told Reuters: As the delegation passed through, women were asked to leave their workstations so that men could take their places.The employees statement described the instructions as an attempt to make female workers invisible because of their sex.Did BAPS remove the women?There is no confirmed indication that BAPS members physically removed Eiffel Tower employees. The available accounts say the delegation made a request and that the towers management organised the arrangements.The Eiffel Tower staff statement blamed professional instructions that led to female employees being sidelined, replaced and made invisible because of their sex. SETE also accepted that the conditions should not have been approved.The central question is therefore whether the towers management acted on a request that sought to limit contact between the delegation and female staff.What did BAPS say?BAPS addressed the controversy in a post on X published by the BAPS Mandir Swaminarayan Hindou de Paris account. The organisation said it understood the concerns raised and took them seriously.It said the visit had been arranged with the Eiffel Tower team because of the size of the delegation and had been scheduled at the start of normal opening hours to minimise disruption to other visitors.BAPS wrote:We understand the concerns expressed and take them very seriously. Given the size of our delegation, the visit was organized in coordination with the Eiffel Tower teams, at the start of normal opening hours, in order to limit as much as possible any disruption for other visitors. To our knowledge, at no time was access to the Eiffel Tower denied to anyone. Nevertheless, we wish to offer our sincere apologies to anyone who may have been hurt or inconvenienced by this situation. We are deeply committed to the universal values of mutual respect and service to others.The statement does not directly explain whether BAPS requested that female employees be moved or replaced.BAPSs reference to access being denied appears to concern visitors entering the Eiffel Tower. The staffs complaint, however, concerns the treatment of female employees inside the workplace. These are separate issues.Why did the Eiffel Tower close?Staff members held a walkout on Monday, September 7, after tensions rose over the weekend. The towers website initially cited operational or exceptional reasons for the closure.Davoine said employees wanted to open talks with management and ensure that female staff were not treated in the same way again, Reuters reported.The closure was linked to a workplace protest over gender equality. It was not reported as a security shutdown or a protest by visitors.What happens next?Paris Mayor Emmanuel Grgoire said an investigation would be launched to establish what happened. He backed the employees concerns and said equality between women and men must apply throughout the city.The investigation is expected to examine who made the request, who approved the arrangements and what instructions were given to employees.SETE said the landmark was due to reopen on Tuesday after a meeting between staff and management.What is confirmedand what is not?The following facts are established by the statements and reports available so far:A BAPS delegation visited the Eiffel Tower on September 5.The visit was coordinated with the Eiffel Tower team.BAPS said the visit was scheduled early to limit disruption to other visitors.SETE said the delegation had requested arrangements limiting interactions with women.Female employees said they were asked to leave posts, avoid areas and, in some cases, were replaced by male colleagues.SETE said the conditions should not have been accepted.BAPS apologised but said it knew of no instance in which anyone was denied access to the tower.Staff protested, leading to the temporary closure.Paris authorities announced an investigation.What remains to be established is the exact wording of the request, who approved it and whether the instructions to female employees were issued by Eiffel Tower management, contractors or others involved in organising the visit.

IIT Mandi seeks new director amid varna row, Behera's term ends in December

IIT Mandi seeks new director amid varna row Beheras term ends in December

SKUAST-K, Bio-Enzyme Academy join hands to turn waste into wealth in J&K

Srinagar, Sept 7: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-Kashmir) has joined hands with the Bio-Enzyme Entrepreneurs Academy of India, Bengaluru, to promote bio-enzyme entrepreneurship as a waste-to-wealth opportunity and create avenues for self-employment among students, farmers and rural entrepreneurs in Jammu and Kashmir. A one-week Certificate Course on Bio-Enzyme Entrepreneurship was inaugurated today at the Vice Chancellors Secretariat, Shalimar Main Campus. Organised by the SKUAST-K Innovation and Incubation Entrepreneurship Centre (SKIIE) in collaboration with the Academy, the programme focuses on hands-on training in bio-enzyme production, value addition and marketing, with an emphasis on developing sustainable micro-enterprises. The inaugural function was attended by senior officers and faculty members of the University, along with academicians, scientists, entrepreneurs and trainee participants. Guests of Honour included Priti Rao, President, Bio-Enzyme Entrepreneurs Academy of India; Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension; Prof. M. Altaf Bhat, Director Education; Prof. Azmat Alam Khan, Registrar; Er. Ab Rashid Bhat; Mahendra Pyati; and B.C. Kiran. Speaking on the occasion, the Vice Chancellor appreciated SKIIE for introducing the innovative programme and stressed the potential of converting agricultural and kitchen waste into value-added, eco-friendly products. He said such initiatives align with the Universitys mandate of translating research and knowledge into entrepreneurship and self-reliance, and encouraged participants to use the training to establish enterprises and contribute to the green economy. Priti Rao highlighted the national scope of bio-enzyme-based enterprises and apprised participants of the technical and market support available through the Academy. The programme commenced with a welcome address by the CEO, SKIIE Centre. During the event, the University and the Bio-Enzyme Entrepreneurs Academy of India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration in the field. A booklet titled A Genuine Startup Dosage: Hazrat Sheikh ul Alam (RA) Entrepreneurship Model, authored by Naveed Hamid, CEO, SKIIE Centre, was also launched. The event further witnessed the launch of startup products of M/s XYVA Naturals Pvt. Ltd. and the SKUAST-K SAFART Passport, conceptualised by Naveed Hamid and developed by Muaolim, B.Tech Biotechnology student. The week-long training will cover bio-enzyme preparation, quality control, packaging, branding, business planning and marketing, besides on-site visits to landfills, waste areas and fruit mandis. The programme combines classroom sessions, hands-on demonstrations and interactions with resource persons and industry experts.

In Delhi, Over 2,800 Kg Of Unsafe Food Destroyed Ahead Of Festive Season

Food safety teams inspected markets including Khoya Mandi, Mori Gate, Bagh Deewar, Sanjay Market and Janakpuri Mandi, focusing on suspected adulteration, poor storage conditions and the quality of products being sold to consumers.

Air Marshal (Retd) Jeetendra Mishra to take charge as Ram Temple Trust CEO today

Digital Desk | Ayodhya, Sep 8 (IANS) Air Marshal (Retd.) Jeetendra Mishra, the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Shri Ram Mandir Trust, will formally assume office on Tuesday. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust appointed Air Marshal (Retd) Jeetendra Mishra as the CEO of the Ram Temple Trust earlier this month. The appointment was approved during a high-profile meeting of the Trust, which considered the recommendations of the search committee constituted to select the temple's first CEO. He was selected for the top post from the pool of more than 5,000 prospective candidates. The Trust members, in their presser soon after the appointment, hailed the Air Force veteran's more than 39 years of distinguished career in the service and reaffirmed belief in his extensive leadership experience, which will now move from military command to institutional responsibility. Commissioned into the Indian Air Force on December 6, 1986, Mishra is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy and served as the Commander during Operation Sindoor -- India's befitting response to the Pakistan-sponsored Pahalgam terror attack. The CEO will have his hands full with numerous tasks, as he will be the point person for making the administration and financial management of the temple more organised and robust. Temple management, security, staff administration, devotee facilities, and coordination among various departments and agencies will be among his primary responsibilities. Later, expressing his gratitude over the appointment, the former Air Marshal said he considered himself fortunate to have been entrusted with the responsibility of serving the nation as well as Lord Ram and the devotees of the temple. My heart is filled with gratitude. I consider myself the most fortunate person today to have been given this responsibility twice in my life, once to serve the nation and now to serve Lord Ram, the temple and its devotees through its organisation and administration, he said.

The Changing Role of Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is often understood in the narrow context of treating pain or helping someone recover after an injury or surgery. But the profession has evolved far beyond that. Today, physiotherapy is about movement, prevention, rehabilitation and, most importantly, helping people remain independent and participate fully in their everyday lives. On World Physiotherapy Day, observed every year on September 8, it is important to look at physiotherapy not merely as a treatment option after something has gone wrong, but as an important part of maintaining physical health throughout life. Movement is one of the most basic requirements of the human body. We walk, sit, stand, bend, lift, climb stairs, run, work and sleep without thinking much about the complex coordination involved. We begin to appreciate the importance of movement only when pain, injury, weakness or illness takes that ability away. That is where physiotherapy becomes important. A physiotherapist does not simply treat a painful joint or a stiff muscle. The larger responsibility is to understand why the problem has occurred, identify the limitations in movement and strength, and help the individual regain confidence in their body. OUR LIFESTYLE IS CHANGING AND SO ARE OUR PROBLEMS One of the biggest challenges before us today is our increasingly sedentary lifestyle. Long working hours, prolonged sitting, excessive screen time, inadequate physical activity and poor posture have made neck pain, back pain, shoulder problems and other musculoskeletal complaints increasingly common. There was a time when back pain was largely associated with physically demanding work. Today, it is equally common among people who spend most of their working day sitting at a desk. The same applies to neck and shoulder problems. Hours spent looking down at mobile phones and laptops can place considerable stress on the neck and upper back. What begins as occasional discomfort can gradually become a persistent problem. The common response is often to take a painkiller, apply a balm or simply wait for the pain to disappear. But pain is not always the problem itself. It can be a warning that something in the way we move, work or use our body needs attention. This is where proper assessment becomes important. PHYSIOTHERAPY SHOULD NOT BEGIN ONLY AFTER INJURY One of the misconceptions that needs to change is that physiotherapy is meant only for people who have suffered an injury or undergone surgery. Prevention is an equally important part of physiotherapy. A person who spends eight hours at a desk can benefit from understanding correct posture, strengthening the muscles that support the spine and incorporating appropriate movement into the working day. Similarly, a sportsperson can benefit from physiotherapy not only after an injury but also as part of injury prevention and performance preparation. For older adults, physiotherapy can help maintain strength, balance, flexibility and mobility. These are particularly important because a loss of balance or muscle strength can increase the risk of falls and dependence on others. For women, physiotherapy has an important role during pregnancy and after childbirth, particularly in helping restore strength, mobility and overall physical function. The principle is simple. We should not wait for movement to become difficult before we start taking care of it. THE GOAL IS NOT SIMPLY TO REDUCE PAIN A patient often comes to a physiotherapist with one immediate question: When will my pain go? That is understandable. Anyone living with pain wants relief. But successful physiotherapy is about more than temporary relief. The objective is to address the underlying problem and help the patient return to normal activity. If someone has recurrent back pain, for example, simply reducing the pain may not be enough. We need to understand whether there is weakness, stiffness, poor movement mechanics, an unsuitable working position or another contributing factor. Similarly, after an operation, rehabilitation is not complete merely because the surgical wound has healed. The patient needs to regain strength, mobility, confidence and the ability to perform daily activities. The real measure of recovery is not only whether a patient feels better inside the clinic. It is whether they can walk better, work better, climb stairs, sleep comfortably, return to their sport or carry out everyday activities without unnecessary limitations. THE CONNECTION BETWEEN PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELLBEING Physical health and mental wellbeing are closely connected. Anyone who has experienced prolonged pain knows that it can affect much more than the body. Persistent pain can disturb sleep, affect mood, reduce confidence and restrict social and professional life. A person may gradually stop exercising because movement hurts. They may avoid going out, playing with their children or participating in activities they once enjoyed. Reduced activity can then lead to further weakness and stiffness, creating a cycle that becomes increasingly difficult to break. Physiotherapy can help break that cycle. Good rehabilitation gives patients not only exercises but also knowledge and confidence. When patients understand their condition and learn what their body is capable of doing, they begin to take ownership of their recovery. That is an important shift. The patient should not remain dependent on treatment forever. The ultimate objective should be to make the patient stronger, more confident and capable of managing their physical health independently. AGE SHOULD NOT BECOME AN EXCUSE FOR INACTIVITY Another area where we need to change our thinking is ageing. Growing older is a natural process. Losing independence does not have to be an inevitable part of it. Strength, balance, flexibility and endurance can be maintained through appropriate physical activity and exercise. Physiotherapy can play an important role in helping older people remain mobile and independent. The aim is not to make an elderly person perform like a young athlete. The aim is much more practical and meaningful. Can they get out of a chair without assistance? Can they climb the stairs? Can they walk to the market? Can they travel, meet friends and participate in family life? These may appear to be ordinary things, but for someone struggling with mobility, they represent independence and dignity. Technology will help, but the human connection will remain important Physiotherapy is also changing with technology. Digital rehabilitation, wearable devices, movement analysis and teleconsultation are opening new possibilities for patients and therapists. These developments can make rehabilitation more accessible and help monitor progress. But technology cannot replace the importance of clinical assessment, communication and understanding the individual patient. Every patient is different. Two people may have the same diagnosis but completely different physical requirements, lifestyles and recovery patterns. A good rehabilitation programme therefore has to be personalised. Physiotherapy is ultimately about people, not just conditions. A CULTURE OF MOVEMENT IS WHAT WE NEED Perhaps the most important message on World Physiotherapy Day is that movement should become a part of our daily routine rather than something we turn to only when a doctor tells us to exercise. Take regular breaks from prolonged sitting. Walk whenever possible. Strengthen the body. Work on flexibility and balance. Pay attention to posture. Give the body adequate recovery. Most importantly, do not ignore persistent pain or limitations in movement. At the same time, exercise should be appropriate to an individuals age, physical condition and medical history. More exercise is not always better. The right exercise, performed correctly and consistently, is what matters. Physiotherapy has a role to play at every stage of this journey. From a child learning to move confidently, to an athlete returning to competition, from a professional dealing with work related pain to an older person trying to preserve independence, physiotherapy can make a meaningful difference. MOVING TOWARDS A HEALTHIER FUTURE World Physiotherapy Day is therefore not simply a day to recognise physiotherapists. It is an opportunity to recognise the importance of movement itself. We often take the ability to walk, bend, stretch, lift and move for granted. Yet these simple abilities determine how independently we live our lives. As physiotherapists, our responsibility is not only to treat illness and injury but also to educate people, prevent avoidable problems and help them understand that their physical health deserves attention long before a serious problem develops. A healthy body is not one that never experiences pain or injury. It is one that is cared for, strengthened and given the opportunity to recover. This World Physiotherapy Day, let us remember that movement is not merely a function of the body. It is freedom, confidence, independence and quality of life. And sometimes, helping a person move again means helping them reclaim a part of their life that they thought they had lost. Dr Manasi Pawar is a Pune based physiotherapist with over 15 years of experience in the field.

Where is the Omar Abdullah led NC Government?

Between governmentality, governance and politics, where does the Omar Abdullah led government stand? This is a question that befuddles the mind of every Kashmiri. To the common Kashmiri, the government is missing in action, except for photo ops, self-congratulatory media rants by its MLAs and other unelected honchos. In other words, the Omar Abdullah led government jogs its way by trying to hog the media headlines. But this is what National Conference was not voted for into power. A massive mandate that was given by the people of Jammu and Kashmir was meant to address long standing political grievances, the status of J&K with respect to the broader federal framework of India after 2019, and resolving the day to day but pressing issues of the people. Instead of that what the people of J&K have gotten is a nonfunctional government which neither is into governmentality nor governance, and a party that has lost its way and some would say even soul. The real victims and sufferers of the Omar Abdullah led government are the hapless people of J&K. Beyond rhetorical and mostly unkept promises in the partys pre-election manifesto, the common people of J&K only see dazzling displays of authority in the form or security cavalcades, irrelevant media sound bytes by NC members and loyalists, and irrelevant governance if at all it can be called that. This is justified by the NC government by blaming the diarchic mode of hybrid governance in J&K defined my dual modes of authority, power and centralized control. This is correct but only up to a point. There are domains of government and governance that are in the Chief Ministers ambit and that of the elected government. Why is not authority exercised in these domains for the overall welfare and wellbeing of the people of J&K? This is because the NC government has given up on governance, let alone politics. In the realm of politics, the aspirations of J&Ks people have been reduced to a mere demand for statehood. Even if it is conceded that statehood is only what people of J&K want, what is the shape and form of that? What does statehood mean in the absence of control over the policing functions of the state? What does going to Delhi and meeting ministers and then doing photo ops over that add up to? Nothing but empty symbolism aimed at playing to the gallery. But beyond and behind this empty symbolism, and shifting blame to the diarchic mode of power and authority in J&K lies a game played by the NC government. This behind the scenes game is about money, corruption and patronage. The NC has reduced its massive and historical mandate to enrich itself and its cronies by disbursal of patronage. This is in the form of corrupt practices over transfers in areas that the government has remit over, lording over a bureaucracy that is increasingly working at cross purposes and a government that has lost its sense of purpose and direction. Its sole goal appears to be making the government a patronage machine for its loyalists and supporters at the expense of the wider public. If the NC government was a little serious about governance and welfare of the people of J&K, it could have easily extracted efficiencies within the existing framework and systems and passed the benefits to people. But it has chosen not to. What it does instead is to encourage and promote inertia in the government structures, and then pass on the systems inefficiencies to the people. The recent increase in power tariff rates to people is a case in point here. Blaming these to peaks and troughs in demand for electricity, T & D losses and other technical matters is obfuscation at best and lying at worst. Instead of making the system more efficient which is possible, the NC government paralyses it by various means and methods. Governance is not about commanding vast resources and then disbursing these at whim. It is about making use of available resources to create more and ensuring that these are disbursed and used in the interests of equity, and fairness to all, with prejudice to none. This principle of governance has been hollowed out by the NC and its honchos. The sufferers are the people of J&K who have neither voice to address deliberate governance failures nor means to redress these. But the NC government plays the chor aaya, chor aaya, trick little realizing that in this day and age of technology induced transparency it cannot fool people all the time. If it is really serious about the hurdles and burdens it faces, the choice of giving up on governmental power is before it. But no, it will not abdicate and give up on the perks and privileges of power and only play the blame game. By riding on the sentiments of people in 2024 and then running roughshod over these, the so called grand old party has betrayed its own people. The hollowed-out party which was given a new lease of life by people of J&K in 2024 has also dug its own grave. But the series of its inconsistencies, lies and deceptions which will bury the party in these would not have mattered but for the faith that people of J&K reposed in it. Everything is in the court of people now. When time comes, the people of J&K must exercise their choices with great care and attention and show the door to those that have consistently betrayed their genuine expectations. Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari is the President, Jammu & Kashmir Apni Party.

Pay Fee Reimbursement Dues Immediately: Kavitha

The protesters first paid floral tributes to Dr B.R. Ambedkar at the Ambedkar Centre before marching towards the collectorate, raising slogans demanding that the government address students grievances. They staged a brief sit-in at the collectorate.

Punjab Employees Plan Strike Against Governments Policies

Punjab government employees announce a strike in response to controversial decisions, demanding dialogue and fair treatment. Punjab Employees Plan Strike Against Governments Policies

77 days and counting: Haryana guest teachers intensify agitation seeking job regularisation

The teachers are demanding implementation of the State governments regularisation policies framed in 2014, citing recent judgments of the Supreme Court and the Punjab and Haryana High Court

Congress Leaders Criticize Delhi Government Over Satya Niketan Incident

Congress leaders allege pressure from building mafias on Delhis government following the Satya Niketan incident, demanding accountability. Congress Leaders Criticize Delhi Government Over Satya Niketan Incident

Chandimandir joins elite Army cancer care network

Paper leak protests hit Pune as Maratha quota stir looms in Maharashtra

Students in Pune protested demanding MPSC chairman and secretary resignations after a paper leak. Maratha activist Manoj Jarange Patil continues his fast seeking caste certificates for reservation benefits. Thousands of students marched towards the Pune District Collectorate with opposition support. The government faces widespread discontent from various protesting communities. Patil plans a larger agitation in Mumbai after September twelfth.

Haldwani 'purification' row: Congress workers protest in Dehradun, MPs to meet President

Congress leaders demonstrated in Dehradun, demanding an FIR for a recent ritual. Over thirty SC/ST MPs met in Delhi to seek a meeting with the President. They will submit a memorandum against the 'purification' act and demand an FIR. Congress leaders called the ritual an insult to the Constitution and untouchability. They believe public anger will lead to the BJP government's ouster.

Separatists enforce weeklong lockdown in Cameroon's Anglophone regions

Digital Desk | Yaounde, Sep 8 (IANS) Armed separatists are enforcing a weeklong lockdown in Cameroon's conflict-hit English-speaking Northwest and Southwest regions, leading to renewed clashes, residents and security sources said. Separatist leaders announced on social media that the lockdown, which began on Monday, aims to disrupt the start of the new school year, Xinhua News Agency reported. In Bamenda, the capital of the Northwest Region, residents described a tense atmosphere, with schools closed and movement severely restricted. We heard gunshots. People are really afraid. The streets are deserted. Shops are closed, and almost all activities have stopped, a resident, who requested anonymity, told Xinhua by phone. In a video posted online on Sunday, armed separatist fighters threatened to kill anyone who attempts to step out during the lockdown period. Security officials said additional troops had been deployed to both regions to conduct day and night patrols. On Sunday, regional authorities assured residents that security had been tightened and urged them to continue their daily activities. The Northwest and Southwest regions have seen armed conflict since 2017, when separatists began fighting government forces to establish an independent state. In July, seven passengers were kidnapped in Cameroon's Northwest region. The passengers were travelling from the town of Bafoussam, the capital of the West region, to Bamenda, the capital of the Northwest, when armed men intercepted their vehicle. Family members told local media the abductors are demanding a ransom for their release. Ransom kidnappings are common in the English-speaking Northwest, where separatists have clashed with government forces in a push for independence. Police say travellers are frequently targeted by gunmen suspected to be separatist fighters. In June, about 12 people, including 10 passengers on a bus, were kidnapped by suspected separatist fighters in Cameroon's Northwest Region, where an armed separatist conflict is ongoing, according to locals and security sources. The bus left the locality of Ndop and was heading to Bamenda, the region's chief town, when it was intercepted by gunmen.

CPI(M) Faces Criticism Over Draft Report on Election Loss in Kerala

CPI(M) leaders in Kerala challenge a draft report on their election loss, demanding clarity on organizational failures ahead of a larger meeting. CPI(M) Faces Criticism Over Draft Report on Election Loss in Kerala

You are all incompetent and frauds: Kangana Ranaut's fiery exchange with officials in Mandi