All Kashmiri Pandit employees posted in Valley have transit accommodation, says J&K CM Omar Abdullah

Digital Desk | Srinagar, Sept 10 (IANS) Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Thursday that no Kashmiri Pandit employee doing duties in the Valley under the Prime Minister's package for migrants, is without a home. He was reacting to the recent protests by Kashmiri Pandit employees appointed under the Prime Minister's package for migrants and posted in various departments in the Valley. These employees had said that many of them have no safe accommodation while serving in the Valley. The Jammu and Kashmir government has built gated secured accommodations in various districts of the Valley for lodgement of migrant employees posted in the Valley. These multi-storeyed buildings with flats are secured by the security forces. Contesting the claim of the Kashmiri Pandit employees doing duties in the Valley, Omar Abdullah said, Which Kashmiri Pandit is without a home? None of them are homeless. Wherever transit accommodation has been prepared, they have been provided homes. So, which Kashmiri Pandit is without a home? It has become a trend to protest without any reason and do other things. If anyone needs a home, let us know. The rest have already been provided homes. The problem with the Kashmiri Pandit employees posted in the Valley under the PM Special Package, is that their families are away in Jammu and other places while they have to live in secured accommodations in the Valley. Most of them (Kashmiri Pandits) want to be posted out of the Valley citing multiple reasons, the Chief Minister added. Kashmiri Pandit employees posted in the Kashmir Valley said that they face severe security risks, targeted threats, and protests demanding relocation to Jammu. These employees say they face threats from terror groups and proxy outfits like The Resistance Front (TRF) and the United Liberation Council (ULC). These terror outfits had reportedly issued hit lists naming specific Kashmiri Pandit government employees and teachers hired under the Prime Minister's Rehabilitation Package. Migrant employees say recent threat letters have leaked private details, including employee names, home addresses, phone numbers, and vehicle registration numbers, heightening fear. These employees have staged prolonged protests and approached the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) to challenge transfer restrictions, demanding relocation to Jammu until the security situation improves in the Valley.

'Influencer' Swatantra Bhardwaj moves Patiala House court for bail, urgent hearing refused

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 10 (IANS) A Delhi court on Thursday declined an out-of-turn hearing on a bail plea filed by self-styled influencer Swatantra Bhardwaj, who is in judicial custody in connection with the alleged assault of the father of a minor activist during a protest at Jantar Mantar. Bhardwajs counsel had sought an immediate hearing on the bail application before the District Judge. However, the Patiala House court declined to entertain the plea for an out-of-turn hearing and said the bail application would be taken up on September 14. The development comes days after the Delhi High Court dismissed a habeas corpus petition filed by Bhardwaj challenging his arrest in the alleged assault case. A bench of Justices Navin Chawla and Ravinder Dudeja had rejected the habeas corpus plea after the Delhi Police submitted that it was not maintainable as Bhardwaj had already been sent to judicial custody. On Monday, the Patiala House Court sent Bhardwaj to 14 days of judicial custody, with his next production scheduled for September 21. Bhardwaj was detained in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr district on Friday, hours after representatives of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) met senior Delhi Police officials and demanded his arrest. According to the Delhi Police, Bhardwaj is accused of assaulting Sanjay Kumar, father of a minor protester, during a CJP-led demonstration at Jantar Mantar in July. The police had earlier said that the victims injuries were simple in nature and were caused by a steel bracelet. It later added provisions of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and criminal intimidation to the FIR. The CJP had also demanded invocation of an attempt-to-murder charge, with the police stating that the provision would be considered after obtaining an expert medical opinion. A separate FIR was also registered against Bhardwaj under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act on the complaint of the minor activist, who alleged online rape threats and harassment. The case also invokes relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Information Technology Act. The controversy erupted after a purported viral video in which Bhardwaj allegedly claimed that he had physically assaulted the father of a minor activist during the Jantar Mantar demonstration and allegedly said that he was let off because of his political connections. Bhardwaj later told the media that he had allegedly acted in self-defence. Union Minister and Lok Janshakti Party-Ram Vilas (LJP-RV) chief Chirag Paswan had said that his name was misused by Bhardwaj in the purported video. Paswan had said that he filed an official complaint against Bhardwaj and would ensure justice for the minor victim and her family. The CJP had staged a protest outside the Parliament Street Police Station demanding action against Bhardwaj and seeking the addition of attempt-to-murder, criminal intimidation and SC/ST Act provisions to the case.

Karnataka HC quashes notices demanding 2% cess from movie tickets as govt. admits that law is yet to be enforced

Manipur: JFD Announces Shutdown Of Government Offices From September 11 Over NRC demand

The Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation (JFD) has announced a statewide shutdown of State and Central government offices in Manipur from September 11, demanding that the Centre update the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in the state with 1951 as the base year. JFD convenor Jeetendra Ningomba made the announcement at a press conference... The post Manipur: JFD Announces Shutdown Of Government Offices From September 11 Over NRC demand first appeared on Northeast Today .

Self-belief, ability to read batters driving Sher-E-Punjab success, says Kartik Chadha

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 10 (IANS) Kartik Chadha has been one of the finds of the Sher-E-Punjab T20 League, but the Ludhiana Lions leg-spinner insists there has been no sudden transformation behind his emergence. For him, the performances have been a result of backing his ability, trusting his process and understanding the batters he is up against. The 22-year-old is currently sitting atop the wickets table after making a strong impact in the tournament, but Kartik believes the confidence was present from the very beginning. I have been playing tournaments for the last two years. But this one is happening on a higher level. We have got a good platform. I am backing myself, and from day one, I am backing my strength. And I have always believed in myself since the first game, be it against any team or any player. I just believed in myself and knew I could do it. And I was following the process, which is why I am getting good results, Kartik told IANS in an exclusive interaction on Thursday. His performances have been built around an attacking skill that is difficult to marry with consistency. Kartik, however, has spent years trying to make control a defining part of his leg-spin. Its been a lot of years now. Four years or so. I am just working on it regularly. I have been with IPL for two years and have also worked as a net bowler. So I have gained a lot of experience from there. And I have learned a lot. So I am just backing myself. And I practise bowling a lot. Thats the reason behind consistency. And the rest is all about confidence. And it is very important to believe in yourself in the end. For a spinner operating in the middle overs, reading the batter can be just as important as the quality of the delivery itself. Kartik says understanding the situation and identifying where a batter is looking to score determines his approach. It all depends upon the situation, actually. What is the demand of the situation? And obviously, how the player is playing. We should know his strengths, where he can play. And where he is hitting the shots. So it is important to be self-aware and to back yourself. You have to believe in yourself. That you can do it. He believes the battle is ultimately one of information and anticipation. Because even when the batsman comes on to the crease, he will aim to strike you. So we just have to see how he is playing and where he is playing the shots. The main thing is how you read the batter. The one who reads the batter well takes the upper edge! Kartik's success has come despite conditions that can make life particularly difficult for a leg-spinner. The art demands wrist consistency, while evening matches can introduce dew, making gripping the ball harder. No one can see your struggle from the scorecard alone. Basically, what happens is A leg-spinner has to be bowled from the opposite hand. So its tough to bowl from the wrist, because consistency is required. At the level at which we are playing now, with the number of batters we are facing, it happens that you have to do that. On top of that, dew factors come into play. The ball gets a little wet during play, making it more difficult. Kartik feels those difficulties are part of what makes his craft so demanding. So this little thing comes up: the art of leg spin is a little difficult. Because I have been playing for 8 years, I reached here. So its basically that. This art form is a little difficult to see in cricket. So I will say this reflects that.

Over 900 Arasu Rubber Plantation Workers Protest For Wage Hike, Job Regularisation

More than 900 workers of the Arasu Rubber Corporation staged a one-day protest in front of the corporations headquarters here on Wednesday, demanding immediate wage revision and regularisation of casual workers.

iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max Benchmarks Reveal Speed of A20 Pro Chip

Early benchmark results for the A20 Pro chip in the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max appeared early this morning in the Geekbench 7 database, offering us a first look at the new models' CPU and graphics performance ahead of the devices reaching customers. Based on these early results which are unconfirmed the A20 Pro chip across the Pro models appears to deliver around 21% to 23% faster performance in single-core and 27% to 28% faster performance in multi-core than the A19 Pro chip in the iPhone 17 Pro. It's a pretty impressive jump. The iPhone 18 Pro result lists a single-core score of 4,719 and a multi-core score of 12,677, while an iPhone 18 Pro Max entry delivers similar results, scoring 4,725 and 12,575, respectively. Both identify a six-core CPU running at approximately 4.93 GHz. There are similarly formidable gains on the graphics side for the A20 Pro. Based on early Metal scores in the Geekbench 6 database (also unconfirmed) the full 7-core GPU variant of the chip in the iPhone 18 Pro models is around 38% to 40% faster than the A19 Pro's 6-core GPU. The graphics results broadly match Apple's claim in its iPhone 18 Pro press release and product page that the A20 Pro offers up to 20% faster CPU performance compared to the A19 Pro chip in the iPhone 17 Pro models, while the A20 Pro's new seven-core GPU is up to 40% faster than the A19 Pro. Built using a 2-nanometer process, the chip also features a six-core CPU with integrated Neural Accelerators and 50% more memory bandwidth than its predecessor. Apple also says the new chip packaging and redesigned vapor chamber enable up to 40% better sustained performance than the previous generation. Note that these one-off benchmarks, which have yet to be independently verified, don't tell us how the devices will perform during prolonged gaming or other demanding workloads benchmark results and real-world performance are never totally analogous. Related Roundup: iPhone 18 Pro Tag: Geekbench This article, iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max Benchmarks Reveal Speed of A20 Pro Chip first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums

BRS leaders visit plot allegedly allotted to company linked to Telangana CMs brother

Digital Desk | Hyderabad, Sep 10 (IANS) Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leaders on Thursday staged a protest over the purported allotment of government land to a company allegedly linked to Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy. BRS leaders led by party Working President K.T. Rama Rao visited the land allegedly allotted to Tesseract Advanced Systems Private Limited in Raviryala village, Maheshwaram mandal, Ranga Reddy district. The main Opposition party alleged that land worth about 200 crore had been allotted to Tesseract for just Rs 7 crore. The party accused the Chief Minister of facilitating the allotment for the benefit of his family members. As the BRS MLAs were suspended from the Assembly for rest of the Monsoon Session for disrupting the proceedings, demanding action against the alleged assault on party legislators at the Assembly gate on September 7, a meeting of the BRS Legislature Party was held at the residence of Rama Rao to decide the future course of action. After the meeting, a delegation of BRS leaders led by K.T. Rama Rao left for Raviryala village on the city's outskirts to see the plot allegedly allotted to Tesseract. Meanwhile, BRS members staged a walkout from the Legislative Council over the issue of alleged land allotment to Tesseract. The BRS members demanded a discussion on the alleged allotment and raised slogans in support of their demand. BRS leader in the Council, Madhusudhana Chary alleged that a shell company which does not have a single employee was allotted government land worth 200 crore. The BRS lodged their protest when Chairman G. Sukhender Reddy cut the mike as Chary took the name of Kondal Reddy. The BRS leader took exception to the manner in which the proceedings were conducted. He alleged that their rights were being suppressed with the use of marshals. Last month, K.T. Rama Rao alleged that the Tesseract land deal was bigger than the MUDA case in Karnataka. How can a company with just 1 lakh in paid-up capital and reportedly zero employees get 5 acres of land worth 200 crore for 7 crore, he asked. The BRS also complained to the Lokayukta over the alleged illegal allotment of land. The party delegation demanded that pending an enquiry, the allocation of five acres of land must be cancelled. It sought a comprehensive probe under the Lokayukta Act into the roles of Industries Minister Duddilla Sridhar Babu and TGIIC officials. Minister Sridhar Babu denied the allegation and accused K.T. Rama Rao of misleading people with false allegations on land allocation. Alleging that the previous government of BRS allotted lands for only 90 lakh per acre, he said the present government allotted land for 1.50 crore per acre. The minister claimed that the land was allotted strictly in accordance with prescribed rules and regulations. Stating that five acres were allotted for 7.5 crore, he asked K.T. Rama Rao to clarify where from he got the figure of Rs.200 crore from.

Divyenndu and Bhuvan Arora face off as a clever hack spirals out of control in Waiting Hai trailer

Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 10 (IANS) The makers of Waiting Hai have unveiled the trailer of the upcoming film on social media. It offers a glimpse into a high-stakes face-off between Divyenndu and Bhuvan Arora. The trailer shows how a clever hack sets off a chain of events that threatens to spiral into something much bigger than anyone could have anticipated. Set in Patna, Waiting Hai brings Divyenndu and Bhuvan Arora together in a high-stakes face-off sparked by a clever hack that soon grows into something far bigger. Divyenndu plays Sugam Mishra, a railway constable struggling to settle into a demanding new job while dealing with a difficult boss and the chaos of his personal life. Bhuvan Arora essays Afroz Hamsa, a tech whiz who discovers a way to beat the system. Speaking about the series, Amogh Dusad, Director and Head of AVOD Content, Prime Video India, said, At Prime Video, we are always looking to bring audiences stories that take familiar worlds and present them in fresh and entertaining ways. Waiting Hai does exactly that by taking the everyday struggle of securing a railway ticket and building an entire scam dramedy around it. I think what makes the series particularly special is how rooted it feels. It has humor, heart, and characters you can recognize, even as the situations around them become increasingly unpredictable. With Sameer Vidwans distinctive storytelling and a phenomenal ensemble led by Divyenndu and Bhuvan Arora, we believe Waiting Hai will strike a strong chord with audiences. Talking about playing Sugam Mishra, Divyenndu shared, What drew me to Sugam was that he is not your typical cop who has everything figured out. He is trying to find his feet professionally while also dealing with the realities of his personal and newly married life. That balance makes him very relatable, and I enjoyed exploring that side of him. Waiting Hai has this very rooted, desi humour to it, but there is also a cat-and-mouse chase at its core. I had a great time playing Sugam and I hope the audiences will have a lot of fun watching him uncover a scam that just keeps getting bigger. Sharing his experience of playing Afroz Hamsa, Bhuvan Arora added, What really drew me to Afroz was how different he felt from me as an actor and as a person. Hes someone with a good heart, but he finds himself doing things that arent necessarily right, and that contradiction is what I really enjoyed exploring. His equation with Mamaji (played by Vijay Maurya) was another aspect of the character that I really relished. The script itself immediately appealed to me because its such a fun cat-and-mouse chase, set in a world that feels very different from what audiences usually see. Knowing that the story is also loosely based on real-life events made it even more intriguing for me. And then, of course, getting to work with such talented and veteran actors was an added bonus. Afroz has so many unexpected turns to his journey, and I genuinely enjoyed every bit of playing him. Speaking about Waiting Hai, Sameer Vidwans, Series Director, said, I have always been interested in stories that are rooted in everyday life yet reveal a larger world beneath the surface. Waiting Hai offered that rare opportunity, bringing together an unusual premise and layered characters while balancing humor with tension and intrigue. Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Sameer Vidwans, the MX Original stars Harshita Gaur, Kumud Mishra, Vijay Maurya, Srushti Tare and Sunita Rajwar in pivotal roles. Produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Ajay Rai, Waiting Hai will stream on Prime Video from September 16.

Shreya Ghoshal's husband washes dishes, cleans the kitchen and takes care of the house. He also runs a global tech company and is twice as rich as her. Who is Shiladitya Mukhopadhyaya?

Singer Shreya Ghoshal shared insights into her marriage with Shiladitya Mukhopadhyaya. She feels fortunate to have a supportive husband who shares household duties. Shiladitya handles chores like washing dishes and cleaning the kitchen himself. Both partners have demanding careers and manage responsibilities together. Read on!

Akali Dal Demands FIR and CBI Probe in Gulzar Singh Suicide Case

The Akali Dal calls for justice in the Gulzar Singh suicide case, demanding an FIR against Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema. Akali Dal Demands FIR and CBI Probe in Gulzar Singh Suicide Case

Tampering with Dr Ambedkar

Misal Satluj Party president Ajaypal Singh Brar condemned the tampering with Dr Ambedkars statue in Jalandhar, demanding an impartial investigation and strict legal action while appealing for peace and communal harmony. The post Tampering with Dr Ambedkars Statue Condemnable: Misl Satluj appeared first on Sikh Siyasat News .

Maratha agitation: Jarange says Mumbai march certain as his fast enters 13th day

Manoj Jarange confirmed his planned march to Mumbai after supporters gather on September 12. He is currently on a hunger strike demanding Maratha reservation under the OBC category. Jarange will announce the march date once his supporters assemble at the protest site. He expressed dissatisfaction with state minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil's assurances. The activist also criticized Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's stance on the issue.

'Mirzapur The Movie' faces flak over song on Maharana Pratap

Senior BJP leader Rajendra Rathore has formally objected to the use of a song dedicated to Maharana Pratap in Mirzapur The Movie, demanding its removal from the Central Board of Film Certification. Rathore argues that using the historical song in a scene with criminal characters disrespects Maharana Pratap and hurts public sentiments. The song's composer, Rapperiya Balam, also claims it was used without his permission and that its placement glorifies villains, insulting Rajasthan and Maharana Pratap.

Lal Mandir Was Original Target: How Red Fort Bomber Changed Plans | NIA Chargesheet On IED Blast

The NIA chargesheet in the Red Fort blast case details the movements, planning and evidence linked to bomber Umar-un-Nabi. On November 10, Umar allegedly first tried to park the explosive-laden i20 near Lal Mandir in Chandni Chowk, but heavy traffic and police presence led him to turn back. CCTV captured the attempt at 6:37 pm, before the blast near Red Fort Gate No. 4 at 6:50 pm. The explosion killed 11 people and injured 29. The chargesheet also details forensic evidence, including a remote command mechanism fitted in one of Umars shoes and a metal piece testing positive for TATP, potassium and ammonium nitrate. The NIA also cited digital material, witness accounts, the Lone Mujahid Pocket Book and Umars movements before the attack.

Digvijaya Singh announces Sanatan Swabhiman Yatra to Ayodhya; BJP accuses Cong of 'appeasement politics'

Digital Desk | Bhopal, Sep 10 (IANS) Amid controversy surrounding allegations of donation theft at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha member Digvijaya Singh has announced the 'Sanatan Swabhiman Yatra', which will begin in Ujjain on October 20, coinciding with Dussehra, and proceed towards Ayodhya. While announcing the march, Digvijaya Singh described it as a journey from 'Shivdham' (the abode of Lord Shiva) to 'Ramdham' (the abode of Lord Ram), saying that the significance of Dussehra inspired him to undertake the yatra. Dussehra symbolises the victory of 'Dharma' (righteousness) over 'Adharma' (unrighteousness), and it is with this spirit that I decided to undertake the march... The objective of the march is not to oppose any political party or individual, but to hold a mirror to those allegedly involved in the misuse of devotees' faith and the funds offered at the temple, he said. Digvijaya Singh levelled serious allegations against the government over the alleged misuse of offerings made to the Ram Mandir Trust and claimed that the government was attempting to shield Champat Rai. The Congress leader also pointed out that allegations of irregularities had implicated certain individuals associated with the trust, which was constituted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He maintained that any alleged misuse of funds donated by devotees at a major centre of faith could not be accepted and stressed that contributions made by devotees must be handled and utilised in a transparent manner. Singh said the proposed march was not intended as an attack on any particular political party or individual, but was rooted in Sanatan tradition, religious faith and respect for devotees. He said the allegations surrounding donations made to the Ram Temple would be raised before the public through the yatra. During the announcement, Singh also referred to his political history and recalled that despite his opposition to the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), he had participated in the 'Ram Shila Pujan' campaign during 1988-89. The announcement drew a sharp response from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which accused Singh of using the Ram Temple issue for political purposes and urged him to first question Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi over his absence from the Ayodhya temple. Uttar Pradesh Minister Rakesh Sachan, speaking to IANS, said Singh himself had not visited the Ram Temple to offer prayers and questioned the basis of his criticism. He (Digvijaya Singh) never even went there to offer prayers. Those involved in the theft of donations have already faced action after the Chief Minister constituted a full-fledged inquiry committee. A CEO has also been appointed there in a new arrangement. CM Yogi has consistently been concerned that no such incident should take place, Sachan said. Bihar BJP President Sanjay Saraogi also hit out at Digvijaya Singh and said the Congress leader should first ask Rahul Gandhi why senior leaders of his party had not visited the Ram Temple in Ayodhya to pay obeisance. Digvijaya Singh should first ask Rahul Gandhi why his party's senior leader has not visited the Ram Temple in Ayodhya to pay obeisance even once. Don't these people feel ashamed? Saraogi told IANS. Saraogi said the Uttar Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, acted promptly after allegations regarding the theft of donations surfaced and constituted a committee to look into the matter. This is just an example of the Congress party's appeasement politics. Next year, Uttar Pradesh is going to polls, and hence now they are remembering Lord Ram out of nowhere, Saraogi added. JD(U) National General Secretary Shyam Rajak also questioned Digvijaya Singh's reference to Sanatan while attacking the Congress leader over his decision to launch the yatra. Which Sanatan is Digvijaya Singh talking about? He should first put his own house (Congress party) in order and take care of his own family, Rajak said.

BJPs Sanjay Sarawagi Criticizes Congress Leader Digvijaya Singh Ahead of Sanatan Swabhiman Yatra

Sanjay Sarawagi targets Congress over Digvijaya Singhs yatra, questioning Rahul Gandhis commitment to Ram Mandir. BJPs Sanjay Sarawagi Criticizes Congress Leader Digvijaya Singh Ahead of Sanatan Swabhiman Yatra

Drug trafficking accused arrested after fleeing from NCB custody in J&K

Digital Desk | Jammu, Sep 10 (IANS) Officials of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) said on Thursday that the drug trafficking accused, who had escaped from custody in J&Ks Jammu city on September 7, has been re-arrested. The officials said the NCB, in coordination with the Jammu and Kashmir Police and Punjab Police, has re-arrested the drug trafficking accused, who had fled from custody in Jammu. The accused had fled from Jammu and travelled towards Jalandhar via the Pathankot route, the officials said. He allegedly took shelter in a forested area near Narwal Fruit Mandi before altering his appearance by shaving his beard and changing his clothes. The official said that following a three-day search and tracking operation across Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab, a joint team of NCB Jammu, NCB Amritsar, NCB Chandigarh and Punjab Police traced and apprehended him in Jalandhar. The accused was identified as Aqib Bashir. The accused was preparing to move towards Delhi or another state when he was apprehended. The accused used his contacts in Jalandhar to seek shelter and evade the search teams. Intelligence inputs and field efforts helped the agencies track his location. Aqib Bashir was arrested when he was preparing to move towards Delhi or another state. His initial arrest was part of a month-long operation by the NCB in the Jammu division, which exposed two distinct routes used by narcotic smugglers to push heroin into the union territory from Pakistan through the Uri sector and indirectly via Punjab. The NCB had earlier arrested him with 522 grams of heroin from a passenger bus in Samba district on September 3, the officials said. Further investigation is underway to ascertain the circumstances of his escape and identify those who allegedly provided him shelter and facilitated his movement. Intelligence agencies believe that the major portion of narcotics smuggled into the country from Pakistan is used to sustain terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir

Digvijaya Singh Announces Sanatan Swabhimaan Yatra from Ujjain to Ayodhya Amid Ram Mandir Donation Controversy

Congress leader Digvijaya Singh has announced a pilgrimage to address concerns over the alleged misuse of donations for the Ram Mandir. Digvijaya Singh Announces Sanatan Swabhimaan Yatra from Ujjain to Ayodhya Amid Ram Mandir Donation Controversy

Chennai Auto Drivers Plan Protest Demanding Fare Hike on September 19

Auto-rickshaw unions in Chennai will protest on September 19, urging the government to revise fares unchanged for 13 years. Chennai Auto Drivers Plan Protest Demanding Fare Hike on September 19

Slow Korean courts present tough hurdle, but India ready for Davis Cup challenge: Rohit Rajpal

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 10 (IANS) Expecting a stern challenge on 'slow courts', Indias Davis Cup non-playing captain Rohit Rajpal believes his unified squad is well-prepared to counter South Koreas home advantage when the two sides meet in the World Group Qualifiers Round 2 in Seoul on September 18 and 19. The games will be at the Seoul Olympic Park Tennis Center and carry huge importance the winner will advance to the prestigious Davis Cup Final Eight, to be played in Bologna, Italy, in November. India, ranked 19th, last met 16th-ranked South Korea a decade ago in 2016 and secured a 4-1 victory on grass in Chandigarh. India, who trails 6-5 in the head-to-head between the two nations, booked its place at this stage in similarly dramatic fashion, beating the Netherlands with a Dhakshineswar Suresh-inspired comeback. As a captain obviously, I have very high expectations. But I do sort of recognize that this is going to be a very tough tie because Koreans are playing in Korea and I'm sure being the hosting team, they're preparing the courts to be very slow, which are not in our favour and much more in their favour and that is the home advantage the home team gets to exercise. So, that will make it tougher. But the Koreans are known to be very tough to beat in Korea. So, but we are preparing accordingly. We are getting there early and trying to get as much as possible used to the local conditions that have been prepared for us, Rajpal told IANS in an exclusive conversation, facilitated by subscription-free OTT platform VETO. India have retained the core of the squad that stunned the Netherlands 3-2 in Bengaluru in February to reach the second round of the qualifiers for the first time since the current competition format was introduced in 2019. The five-member team in Seoul comprises Sumit Nagal, Dhakshineswar Suresh and a maiden call-up given to Manas Dhamne. Doubles duty rests with specialists Yuki Bhambri and N. Sriram Balaji, while Sidharth Rawat and junior Grand Slam campaigner Arnav Paparkar join as reserves. Addressing the inclusion of Dhamne, Rajpal said it was done with an eye for the future. So, Manas is young and energetic and what we are trying to do is also so that there is no transition in the team as we go because some of the best teams in the world go through a transition period. We want to make sure that we have a good mix of younger and experienced player so that the transition period, whenever it does happen, we are through with it and Manas, from that point of view, brings a lot of value to the team and he is playing well. He is transitioning at the moment from being a junior into the men's area. So, I think it will do him a lot of good by being there. He has been there earlier in the squad. But now, for the first time he has made it to the team. He is improving a lot and so, I think it will be a very good experience to see and to play under these kind of pressure situations. Managing player availability amid a demanding professional calendar can be tricky, but Rajpal praised the commitment of the Indian players. Well, we are here, which itself shows that all the players are here. The Indians are known to be very emotional about their country and it is my job as a captain to make sure that the team is unified. In this team, all the energies are together and we are firing as one machine. So, we try to push each other and a lot of the team building exercises are put into place in the last few years and that is paying rich dividends now. There is a lot of leg pulling and a lot of fun jokes are directed at each other. All those things which are necessary to take the pressure off right before a tough match, they do happen. We eat breakfast, lunch and dinner together all the time, as they are all coming from different places in the world. So, the idea to get there early as well is to get everybody together and synergize and fire as one firing good machine. India have historically thrived in doubles rather than singles, something which Rajpal agrees with. I mean, the format itself offers you four singles and one doubles. So, it clearly shows that you need to win many more singles and there is only one doubles. But doubles does play an important role. Every point is important there because you need to get to three matches first to win. Sometimes doubles does change the momentum of teams as well . Sometimes, you have seen teams down love two and then the minute the doubles is in your favour, the next day, you get off to a better start. So, Indians have had a good history with Leander (Paes), Mahesh (Bhupathi), Rohan (Bopanna), all these guys really playing and making a career out of doubles, which frankly is fantastic. After you're done with your singles, it does give you many more years to be able to continue on the tour and still survive. So, they showed the world that you could all be a doubles specialist and still do very well for yourself on the tour. Both teams enter the contest on the back of stunning upset wins - while India stunned the Dutch, South Korea fought back to eliminate 2016 champions Argentina 3-2 in Busan. Asked about the ideal benchmark for success in Korea, Rajpal stressed a pragmatic, match-by-match approach over distant targets. Benchmarks are difficult to pinpoint. I mean, I set very high benchmarks for myself and for the boys. Only if you aim for the top, do you reach somewhere near the top. But if you don't aim for the top, you're nowhere, you know, because everything is target-oriented. So, if you set a target, then your body and mind and everything else works in tandem to be able to get you there or close to that. Sometimes you fall short, maybe for skill, stamina, for whatever reasons and you can fix that and come back again. But at the same time, I'd like to be realistic and we take it one match at a time. I tell the boys that please take it one match at a time. Don't think of the next match and don't think what's going to happen after because we need to first cross that hurdle to be able to then look and prepare for the next one. So, realistically speaking, we're not thinking ahead. We're just going to be focused on getting this tie home and bringing it home.

Jammu NCB tracks down, re-arrests escaped drug peddler from Punjab

Jammu, Sept 10: The Jammu unit of the Narcotics Control Bureau has re-arrested a drug peddler who had escaped from its custody three days ago, an official said on Thursday. The accused was arrested in Punjab's Jalandhar in a coordinated operation by the agency, J-K Police and Punjab Police, an NCB spokesperson said. Aqib Bashir, a resident of Kakapora in Pulwama district, escaped from NCBs custody in Narwal on the intervening night of September 6-7. The NCB had earlier arrested him with 522 grams of heroin from a passenger bus in Samba district on September 3. The NCB, in close coordination with Jammu and Kashmir Police and Punjab Police, has successfully traced and re-arrested Bashir, a notorious drug trafficker who had fled from the NCBs custody in Jammu, the spokesman said. After fleeing from Jammu, he said the accused reached Jalandhar via Pathankot. He initially hid in a forest area near the Narwal fruit mandi. To conceal his identity, he clean-shaved, changed his clothes and altered his appearance, he said. The accused used his contacts in Jalandhar to seek shelter and evade the search teams. Intelligence inputs and field efforts helped the agencies track his location. Bashir was arrested when he was preparing to move towards Delhi or another state, the spokesman said. Bashirs arrest was part of a month-long operation by the NCB in the Jammu division, which exposed two distinct routes used by narcotic smugglers to push heroin into J-K from Pakistan through the Uri sector and indirectly via Punjab. In four interceptions carried out over the past month, along with a linked recovery in Punjab, the NCB has seized 6.920 kg of heroin and arrested six accused.

TN: Auto unions announce September 19 stir, demand immediate fare revision

Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 10 (IANS) Auto-rickshaw trade unions in Tamil Nadu have announced a protest in Chennai on September 19, intensifying pressure on the Vijay government to revise fares that have remained unchanged for 13 years. The Federation of Auto-Rickshaw Trade Unions said drivers would assemble near Rajarathinam Stadium in Egmore, demanding an immediate government order on revised meter fares. Union representatives said nearly five lakh drivers across the state were struggling with higher fuel, maintenance and insurance costs. The decision follows three rounds of consultations held with the Transport Department since the Vijay government assumed office in May. At the latest meeting on August 27, unions submitted a fare chart proposing a minimum charge of Rs 60 to Rs 70 for the first 1.5 km and Rs 25 to Rs 30 for every additional kilometre. Passenger representatives who attended the consultations supported the demand, union leaders said. The federation has now consolidated its demand at Rs 60 for the first 1.5 km and Rs 30 for every subsequent kilometre, along with separate waiting and night charges. It said repeated discussions had produced no firm assurance. Drivers had expected a decision during the Assembly debate on the Transport Departments demand for grants. However, Transport Minister A. Vijay Tamilan Parthiban said that an announcement would be made soon, disappointing the unions. A government committee had earlier recommended, in 2024, a base fare of Rs 40 and Rs 18 for each additional kilometre. That proposal remained pending. Following the consultations, officials were understood to be considering a higher recommendation of Rs 50 as the base fare and Rs 22 to Rs 25 for every additional kilometre. The State Home (Transport) Department must take the final decision, the unions said. The last revision, introduced in 2013, fixed the minimum fare at Rs 25 for the first 1.8 km and Rs 12 for each additional kilometre. Unions argue that those rates bear little relation to present operating expenses and have made meter-based services unviable. Commuters, meanwhile, have complained that app-based aggregators impose surge pricing, while some drivers demand amounts above displayed estimates. Transport activists have called for an enforceable fare structure, tighter regulation of aggregators and action on complaints. Officials said the revision would be based on the committees recommendations, but the unions maintained that only a time-bound order could avert agitation.

Tamil Nadu: Persons With Disabilities Protest Demanding Hike In Assistance To

More than 400 persons with disabilities staged a protest at the Commissionerate for the Welfare of the Differently-Abled on Kamaraj Salai in Chennai on Monday, 7 September 2026, demanding that the monthly assistance provided by the Tamil Nadu government be increased from 1,500 to at least 6,000, as reported in The Hindu. The State-wide protest [] The post Tamil Nadu: Persons With Disabilities Protest Demanding Hike In Assistance To 6,000 appeared first on The Commune .

WHO chief meets JP Nadda, praises India's health gains in maternal, child care and TB fight

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised India's health sector progress. He highlighted advancements in maternal and child health initiatives. India's Ayushman Arogya Mandirs bring health screenings closer to communities. ASHA workers support mothers and children from conception through adolescence. Discussions also covered India's efforts to end tuberculosis and strengthen regulations.

WHO chief meets Nadda, praises Indias healthcare gains, hails progress in maternal, child health

Digital Desk | Dili (Timor-Leste), Sep 10 (IANS) World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has praised Indias significant progress in the healthcare sector, particularly its efforts to expand primary healthcare coverage, improve maternal and child health and strengthen the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases. Tedros met Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda on the sidelines of the 79th Session of the WHO Regional Committee for South-East Asia being held in Dili, Timor-Leste, where the two leaders discussed Indias healthcare achievements as well as its ongoing cooperation with the global health body. Taking to X on Thursday, Tedros said, I met Indias Health Minister J.P. Nadda and congratulated him on the countrys impressive health gains, particularly in maternal and child health and the fight against noncommunicable diseases. He also praised Indias Ayushman Arogya Mandir initiative, which has expanded access to primary healthcare services and screening facilities in communities across the country. Tedros said that through around 160,000 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, India is taking screening for hypertension, diabetes and common cancers closer to communities, while also providing referral pathways for patients who require further care and treatment. The WHO chief also highlighted the role played by Indias large network of ASHA workers in taking healthcare services to people in their communities, particularly in supporting women, mothers and children through different stages of life. India's ASHA workers are another powerful example of health care reaching people where they are, supporting mothers and children from conception through adolescence, Tedros said. The WHO Director-General further pointed to the expansion of immunisation coverage and the rise in institutional deliveries from 78 per cent to 93 per cent as important factors contributing to sustained improvements in maternal and child health outcomes. During the meeting, Tedros and Nadda also discussed Indias efforts to eliminate tuberculosis, an area in which the country has been pursuing intensified measures through expanded screening, diagnosis, treatment and public health interventions. The two also discussed strengthening the regulation of medical products to ensure their quality, safety and effectiveness, while reviewing Indias continued engagement with the WHO on a range of global health priorities. Tedros acknowledged Indias important support for the WHO and its contribution to international health initiatives, including cooperation in the field of traditional medicine and also covered the ongoing negotiations concerning the Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing system under the WHO Pandemic Agreement. The meeting between Tedros and Nadda comes as health ministers and representatives from countries in the WHO South-East Asia Region gathered for the 79th Session of the WHO Regional Committee in Dili. Indias healthcare progress, primary health infrastructure and its role in global health cooperation remained among the key areas highlighted during the interaction.

Lal Mandir was original target: How traffic forced Red Fort bomber to change plans

The National Investigation Agency filed a charge sheet detailing the Red Fort vehicle-borne IED attack. The bomber initially targeted Lal Mandir but was diverted by traffic and police presence. He detonated the explosive near Red Fort Gate No. 4, killing eleven people. The device was triggered remotely using a mechanism fitted into the bomber's shoe. This attack was the first vehicle-borne IED incident reported in the national capital.

J&K veterinary interns strike enters 3rd day

Protest demonstrations staged by veterinary interns in Jammu and Kashmir entered their third consecutive day on Wednesday, with protesting students boycotting non-essential services to press for an immediate revision of their monthly internship stipends. Organised under the banner of the Jammu & Kashmir Veterinary Students Association (JKVSA), interns from the Sher-e-Kashmir Universities of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST)-Kashmir assembled outside main campus blocks clad in uniforms, carrying placards and raising slogans demanding parity and financial justice. Protesters highlighted a severe pay gap compared to veterinary interns across other premier institutions in India. Currently, veterinary interns at SKUAST receive a monthly allowance of 6,000. Protesting students pointed out that the current figure fails to cover basic transportation, living and field posting expenses. In contrast, peer institutions offer significantly higher monthly stipends. We are required to carry out 24/7 emergency duties, clinical rotations and livestock field visits in remote districts, paying travel costs out of our own pockets, said JKVSA President Saqlain Rashid. How can we manage basic survival on a Rs 6,000 allowance when interns in other states draw up to Rs 23,500? Student representatives noted that university leadership submitted a formal proposal for a stipend enhancement to the Finance Department as early as 2023. However, despite multiple assurances and official communications from the Veterinary Council of India (VCI), the file remains unapproved. Demonstrating interns warned that unless the government issues a formal, written order approving a stipend hike, they will escalate their agitation into an indefinite strike, halting emergency clinical services and ambulatory livestock duty across university facilities. The protesting students urged the Agriculture Minister Javed Ahmad Dar to look into the grievance for redressal.

Amazon adds cybersecurity veteran Kevin Mandia to board 2 years after he left Google

Amazon said Kevin Mandia, the founder and former CEO of cybersecurity company Mandiant, is joining its board of directors. Amazon adds cybersecurity veteran Kevin Mandia to board 2 years after he left Google

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.

Arogya Mandirs to offer specialist consultations through telemedicine

ACB arrests assistant police inspector for demanding & accepting bribe

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.

iPhone 18 Pro @ $1,199 packs in more AI

Apple has introduced the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, bringing major upgrades across performance, on-device AI, cameras, battery life and thermal management. At the heart of the new Pro models is the A20 Pro chip, which delivers significant gains in CPU, GPU and neural processing while enabling more powerful on-device Apple Intelligence features. The iPhone 18 Pro starts at $1,199, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max starts at $1,299 in the US.The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max also introduce a new 48MP Fusion main camera with variable aperture, giving users greater control over light, depth of field and the overall look of photos and videos. Apple has also added new professional camera controls, improved video capabilities and enhanced AI-powered photography tools.iPhone 18 Pro launched at $ 1,119 The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are powered by the new A20 Pro chip, built around a redesigned architecture focused on performance and efficiency. The chip features a six-core CPU with new performance and efficiency cores, with CPU performance up to 20% faster than the previous generation. The GPU has also received a major upgrade, with a seven-core design delivering significant gains in graphics performance and AI-powered image generation.The new neural engine is specifically designed for on-device AI workloads, with a 32-core design and support for advanced 8-bit floating-point operations. Together, the CPU, GPU and Neural Engine improvements make the A20 Pro significantly more capable of running demanding Apple Intelligence features directly on the iPhone. Apple has also increased memory bandwidth by 50%, helping the device handle larger AI models and demanding applications more efficiently.More powerful Apple Intelligence and SiriThe new Pro models bring deeper Apple Intelligence capabilities, including access to Apple's latest Foundation models and more powerful on-device AI models. Apple says the iPhone 18 Pro can run its most advanced on-device models yet, enabling features such as enhanced image generation, smarter photo editing and more capable Siri interactions.Siri is also getting a major upgrade. Users can interact with Siri more naturally, continue conversations across Apple devices and use the assistant to take actions across supported apps. Siri can understand information displayed through the camera and help users act on what they see. Apple Intelligence also brings more personalised capabilities, including creating automations through natural-language instructions, finding information across apps and generating images through Image Playground.Apple says the new capabilities will work across more than 3,000 apps, allowing developers to integrate Apple's AI features into everyday workflows.New 48MP camera with variable apertureOne of the biggest upgrades comes to the camera system. The iPhone 18 Pro introduces a new 48MP Fusion main camera with variable aperture, giving users more control over how much light enters the camera and how much of the scene remains in focus.The variable-aperture system can automatically adjust depending on the scene, while also allowing users to manually control the aperture for greater creative flexibility. A wider aperture can create a shallower depth of field, while a narrower aperture can keep more of the scene in focus. Apple has also introduced new Pro controls, allowing users to manually adjust settings such as white balance, exposure, histogram and shutter speed.For video creators, the iPhone 18 Pro adds more advanced controls and improved cinematic capabilities. Users can adjust shutter speed for motion blur, while AI-powered smart focus tracking can maintain focus on moving subjects. The new system also supports improved Dolby Vision HDR video and enhanced audio recording capabilities.New tools for photographersApple is also expanding its computational photography capabilities. Photographic Styles now offer additional control over texture and grain, allowing users to create more distinctive looks while retaining control over colour and skin tones. The iPhone 18 Pro also introduces a new approach to preserving image authenticity. Apple says captured images can retain additional information that can be used to verify what was actually recorded by the camera.Together with the new variable-aperture camera and Pro controls, Apple says the system is designed to offer greater flexibility for both everyday photography and professional workflows.Improved thermal managementApple has redesigned the thermal architecture of the iPhone 18 Pro to help sustain the higher performance of the A20 Pro chip. The new thermal system features a next-generation vapour chamber with three times the surface area of the system used in the iPhone 17 Pro. Apple has also introduced new thermal materials, including a nano-twin copper material designed to move heat away from the display more effectively. The company says the redesigned thermal system can deliver up to a 40% improvement in sustained performance compared with the previous-generation Pro model.Longest battery life ever on an iPhoneBattery life is another major focus of the new Pro models. The iPhone 18 Pro offers up to 36 hours of video playback, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max delivers up to 45 hours, giving the Max model the longest battery life ever offered on an iPhone. Apple has also improved charging, with the iPhone 18 Pro capable of reaching 50% charge in around 15 minutes under supported conditions.More connectivity and iOS 27 featuresThe iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max also benefit from new software and connectivity features in iOS 27. Apple says AirDrop transfers are up to 80% faster, while connectivity has been improved with smarter transitions between Wi-Fi networks. A new feature called iPhone Handoff allows a single phone number to be used across two iPhones, with the number becoming active on whichever iPhone the user picks up. The Pro models also feature an upgraded Dynamic Island, while iOS 27 brings further customisation and improvements across apps including Mail and other system experiences.iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max price and availabilityThe iPhone 18 Pro starts at $1,199, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max starts at $1,299 in the US. Pre-orders for both models begin September 12, with availability starting September 18. With the A20 Pro chip, deeper on-device Apple Intelligence, a new variable-aperture 48MP camera, improved thermal architecture and the longest battery life ever on an iPhone, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max represent Apple's biggest Pro upgrade across performance, photography and AI.

Fee reimbursement issue: Telangana BJP chief writes to Rahul Gandhi in Italian to seek his intervention

Digital Desk | Hyderabad, Sep 9 (IANS) Telangana BJP president N. Ramchander Rao on Wednesday wrote a letter in Italian to Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, seeking his intervention to release outstanding college fee reimbursements and address the education crisis in Telangana. Ramchander Rao said he decided to write Rahul Gandhi in his 'mother tongue' as despite hunger strikes, protests, lathicharges, arrests, student letters to the Chief Minister, the 'Goonj' of Telanganas students has neither reached Rahul Gandhi nor his 'arrogant' Congress government. The BJP leader wrote that a severe crisis is affecting the education sector under the Congress government in Telangana. Despite repeated appeals and protests demanding the release of long-pending college fee reimbursements, your government has remained unresponsive to the students' plight. Having exhausted every democratic avenue in an attempt to draw the arrogant Congress government's attention to this serious issue, I find myself compelled to appeal directly to you, reads the letter. Ramchander Rao claimed that the future of nearly 40 lakh studentsparticularly those belonging to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Backward Classes, and the economically weaker sections of societyis currently in jeopardy due to outstanding fee reimbursements totalling Rs 15,000 crore. Because the government has failed to pay the amounts owed, educational institutions are withholding students' certificates; consequently, these young people are unable to pursue higher education or access employment opportunities, the Telangana BJP chief said. The consequences of this situation extend far beyond the students, affecting institutional administrations, teachers, and other staff members as well. Educational institutions are struggling to maintain normal operations, and many employees are receiving only half their salaries. The prolonged delay in payments has had serious repercussions on the quality of education, infrastructure, and even the institutions' ability to meet their most basic obligations, he said. Ramchander Rao mentioned that when BJP stood in solidarity with these students, the state government responded with arrests, police action, and lathi charges. He also wrote that when he decided to go on a hunger strike, the government denied permission for the proposed venue, forcing me to hold it at the BJP state headquarters. The BJP leader told Rahul Gandhi that a large number of students expressed their deep frustration regarding the promises made in his party's Youth Declaration. From unemployment allowances and job promises to recruitment schedules and Vidya Bharosa Cards, the commitments that once fuelled the hopes of young people remain unfulfilledeven though your government has now been in office for 1,000 days, he said. Ramchander Rao said the government arrested him four times in 10 days simply for raising my voice in support of these students. You brandish the Constitution and speak of defending democracy, yet a government led by your own party denies even the space for peaceful protests and attempts to silence the opposition. How can you reconcile your words with these actions? he asked. He urged Rahul Gandhi to exert the necessary pressure on Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy to immediately release all outstanding tuition fee reimbursements and urgently implement the corrective measures needed to revitalise the education system in Telangana.

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.

Young Entrepreneur Avik Bhatia: Building a New Chapter in Real Estate Market

New Delhi [India], September 9: From establishing offices at DwarkaExpressway to commanding a strong presence in one of NCRs most sought-after real estate corridors, young entrepreneur Avik Bhatia has steadily

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

BJP Condemns Tanvir Sadiq

SRINAGAR: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday staged widespread protests across Jammu and Kashmir against National Conference (NC) chief spokesperson and MLA Tanvir Sadiq over his alleged remarks about the living conditions of Kashmiris, demanding an apology and his resignation. The protests were organised over what the BJP has termed the Yazar (Pajama) Controversy, []

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.

Man dies after falling unconscious at Jammu police post, family stages protest

Jammu, Sep 09: A 32-year-old man died after he allegedly fell unconscious at a border police post in R S Pura sector near here early Wednesday, official sources said. The deceased, Uttam Chand, a resident of Rakh village, was called to the Chakroi police post following a complaint filed by a woman neighbour over a property dispute, the sources said quoting the preliminary information. They said the individual fell unconscious and was subsequently taken to the Sub-district Hospital R S Pura at around 4 am. Chand was referred to Government Medical College Jammu but died on way to the hospital, the sources said, adding the body was shifted to a mortuary for postmortem. Following the death, the family members and relatives of the deceased staged a protest, demanding clarity over the circumstances leading to the man's death and seeking appropriate action. Senior police officers have rushed to the spot, while additional personnel have been deployed both at Chakroi and at the hospital mortuary to maintain law and order, the sources said.

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 block roads in Bhopal demanding written stipend hike assurance

The News Mill

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

Is This a Video of Ram Mandir CEO Jeetendra Mishra Celebrating While Drunk? No!

We found out that the video is from 2025 and does not show Jeetendra Mishra.

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.'