NCB secures conviction of three in interstate Charas trafficking case

Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Sep 19 (IANS) The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has secured the conviction of three persons in an interstate Charas trafficking case involving the seizure of 16.5 kg of the contraband near the Himachal Pradesh-Chandigarh border, officials said on Saturday. The case dates back to December 18, 2018, when a team of the NCB's Chandigarh Zonal Unit intercepted a Hyundai Verna near Khuda Lahora Bridge in Chandigarh and recovered 16.5 kg of Charas in connection with NCB Crime No. 49/2018. Two accused, Joginder Singh, a resident of Kullu district in Himachal Pradesh, and Anil Kumar, a resident of Mandi district, were arrested from the spot. During the investigation, the role of a third accused, Raj Kumar alias Raju, also from Kullu district, came to light. According to the NCB, investigations revealed that Raj Kumar, acting in concert with the other accused, was part of a network supplying Charas to major cities including Mumbai, Goa, Bengaluru and Chennai. The seized consignment was allegedly destined for Mumbai for further distribution to other locations. Raj Kumar was arrested on December 20, 2018. During searches at his residence in Bhuntar, Himachal Pradesh, NCB officials recovered an additional 80 grams of Charas. The NCB filed a complaint under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, before the Special Judge, NDPS Court, Chandigarh, on June 12, 2019. Upon conclusion of the trial, the court, in its judgment dated September 15, convicted all three accused. Joginder Singh and Anil Kumar were sentenced to 12 years of rigorous imprisonment and fined Rs 1 lakh each, while Raj Kumar alias Raju was awarded one year's rigorous imprisonment along with a fine of Rs 10,000. The NCB said the conviction reflects its continued efforts to combat drug trafficking through sustained investigation and prosecution. The agency reiterated its commitment to curbing narcotics smuggling and advancing the government's vision of a drug-free India. The Bureau also appealed to the public to report narcotics-related activities through the MANAS National Helpline (1933), assuring strict confidentiality of informants' identities.

Farmers suspend agitation demanding full crop loan waiver

Farmers suspend agitation demanding full crop loan waiver

Success Lesson of the Day by Dr. Seuss, 'Today was good. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one' offers powerful wisdom on happiness, positivity, acceptance, inner peace

Quote of the day by Dr. Seuss teaches us to appreciate life without demanding perfection from it. Dr. Seuss turns the passage of time into something approachable: enjoy the day you have, remember the moments that made it special and then allow yourself to move forward. The quote encourages gratitude without complacency, optimism without unrealistic promises and enjoyment without guilt.

If everything needs statehood, why are we in government?: Sunil Sharma

Srinagar, Sep 19: Leader of Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Sunil Sharma on Saturday questioned the Omar Abdullah-led government over what he described as its repeated use of statehood as a response to basic public grievances, asking why the government was in office if it lacked the authority to address routine issues. Addressing a public interaction programme in Srinagar, Sharma said people were approaching the government with problems related to water, electricity, roads, schools, hospitals and jobs but were repeatedly being told that the administration lacked the required powers. For every issue, whether small or big, the only answer that comes from the government and government machinery is that we have no powers, Sharma said. He said the elected government had completed two years but people were still facing frustration and confusion. The popular government has completed two years, and throughout these two years, we have brought the poor people to a position of frustration and confusion, he said. Sharma said the Opposition had a responsibility to engage with people when the government failed to address their concerns. He said his party's legislative group would take up issues raised by people in the upcoming Assembly session and also pursue matters requiring intervention from the Centre. He, however, questioned the government's explanation that several problems could not be addressed because Jammu and Kashmir had not yet regained statehood. Where pipes had to be connected, where poles and wires were required, where schools needed staff, where hospitals needed doctors and paramedics, where potholes on roads had to be filled, for every issue the same answer was received statehood is not there, he said. Sharma then questioned the purpose of the elected government and the Assembly if statehood was being cited as the answer to basic administrative problems. If at the end of two years we say that we need statehood even to install poles, wires and pipes, and we need statehood even to provide staff, then why are we in government? Why are we in the Assembly? he asked. He went further and said the government should consider dissolving the present arrangement rather than continue for the full five-year term if it believed it could not function without statehood. If after two years we still have the same answer, I feel that after five years the same answer will be repeated, Sharma said. He said unemployment, particularly among young people, would be among the major issues for the Opposition during the upcoming Assembly session. Referring to data presented during the interaction, he said people aged between 19 and 29 accounted for more than 32% of Jammu and Kashmir's population. This section is the largest in Jammu and Kashmir's population and is currently under stress and depression, Sharma said, arguing that many young people had no income to support their parents, pay for siblings' education or meet family responsibilities. He also criticised the government's approach to recruitment and outsourcing, claiming that 25,000 jobs had already been occupied through outsourcing. You have occupied 25,000 jobs. I say this with a guarantee that these 25,000 will not be advertised again, he said. Sharma said outsourced employees could themselves begin demanding regularisation in the future, adding that workers from different government schemes and departments were already seeking regularisation. He also accused the government of trying to play the role of the Opposition while retaining the privileges of being in power. The unfortunate thing is that the people sitting in government also want to do the work of the Opposition, Sharma said. The government also wants to remain in the Opposition, but wants to enjoy all the power. On the upcoming Assembly session, Sharma said there were numerous issues to be raised but questioned the limited number of sitting days. He also contrasted the government's claim that Jammu and Kashmir had more Assembly sittings, on average, than some other states, with the region's specific problems. Jammu and Kashmir's issues are different. There are so many issues here on a single platform. So a response like this makes a person ask: where should we go, whom should we speak to? he said. Sharma also defended the Opposition's public outreach programme, saying it was intended to hear people's grievances and take them to the appropriate forums. On statehood, he said the issue should not be used as a blanket explanation for administrative shortcomings. I am raising the slogan of statehood only to strengthen my vote bank, he said, while adding that statehood was not preventing the government from dealing with most of the issues being raised by people. Sharma's remarks came ahead of the upcoming Assembly session, with the BJP seeking to focus attention on unemployment, recruitment, public services and what it describes as the government's failure to address people's day-to-day grievances.

Abhijeet Dipke Calls UPI MDR Charges Outright Robbery

Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke criticised MDR charges on UPI transactions, calling them outright robbery and demanding that the decision be rolled back. He said the move amounts to charging people after they adopted a cashless economy.

Delhi High Court Takes Firm Stance on DU Elections Amid Violence and Rule Violations

The Delhi High Court addresses violence and rule breaches in the DU elections, demanding accountability from political student organizations. Delhi High Court Takes Firm Stance on DU Elections Amid Violence and Rule Violations

Agriculture Minister Javid Dar visits fruit Mandi Handwara, interacts with growers

Rohit Sharma reveals why test matches kept him awake at night and the comfort food his mother made for him

During intense Test matches, Rohit Sharma often faced sleepless nights due to nervousness, which was a common struggle with the format's unique pressures. To cope, he turned to his mother's homemade banana wafers, finding comfort in their familiar taste. This snack became a cherished anchor for him as he navigated the demanding landscape of Test cricket.

Rachin Ravindra Injures Shoulder in Ad Shoot; Doubtful For India T20Is

New Zealand head coach Rob Walter also said the team would not rush Ravindra back given its demanding schedule

IIT Bombay says circumstances surrounding student's death being looked into

IIT Bombay says circumstances surrounding a second-year students death by suicide are being investigated, while students staged a late-night protest demanding accountability and transparency from the administration

Iltija Mufti Slams NC Govt Over Job Discrimination in J&K

Srinagar, Sep 19 : PDP leader Iltija Mufti on Saturday hit out at the National Conference government in Jammu and Kashmir over unemployment and alleged discrimination in government jobs, accusing it of carrying out institutional apartheid and demanding that a sub-committee report promised by former chief minister Omar Abdullah be made public. Addressing reporters here, Iltija Mufti as per news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) said joblessness remains a serious concern in the Union Territory. We know how unemployed people are in Jammu and Kashmir. The youth of this country are not getting any jobs, she said. She recalled a protest held outside Omar Abdullah's residence on December 24, during which, she claimed, the NC leader had assured open merit students that a sub-committee would be set up within six months and its report presented within the same period. It's been two years and there is no sign of the report, Iltija said, asking the government to disclose the panel's findings. Alleging that Kashmiris were being punished and merit apartheidised, she said, Our Kashmiri community is being punished. An institutional weeding is being carried out. Merit is being apartheidized in Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu and Kashmir is the only state where merit is being punished. She said the protest was aimed at reminding the NC government of its commitment. Please tell us the findings of the sub-committee report that you will present in six months. What are the findings of the sub-committee report that you have presented? Because it's been two years since then. And in those two years, all the vacancies are going to one particular person, she alleged. The rest of the people are being deprived of opportunities. Merit should not be an exception. Merit should be the rule, Iltija said. Accusing the administration of systematically targeting Kashmiris in exams and jobs, she said, The government here is systematically punishing the Kashmiris. You are dismissing them from exams and jobs. Yesterday, 10 years later, God forbid, there is not a single day that our Kashmiri brothers and sisters are not included in the bureaucracy of Jammu and Kashmir. So an institutional government-promoted apartheid is being carried out, because of which our youth, especially from Kashmir, are suffering. So we came here to protest and we wanted to remind the NC government to present the sub-committee report that you had promised,she added. (KNS)

Two years, no report: Iltija Mufti questions Omar govt over reservation sub-committee

Srinagar, Sep 19: PDP leader Iltija Mufti on Saturday led a protest demanding the submission of a sub-committee report on reservation in Jammu and Kashmir, alleging that open merit students, particularly from Kashmir, were being denied opportunities. The protesters raised slogans demanding that the government present the report and provide justice to open merit students. Addressing the protesters, Mufti said the government had promised to submit the sub-committees report within six months, but two years had passed without any findings being made public. We appeal to Omar Sahib that what you had said that you will present the sub-committee report within six months tell us its findings. What are the findings of the sub-committee that you had constituted? she said. Mufti said vacancies were continuing to be filled while open merit candidates were being deprived of opportunities. Because since then, two years have passed, and in those two years, whatever vacancies are coming out, they are going to a particular group, while the rest of the people are being deprived of opportunities, she said. Merit should not be an exception, merit should be the rule, Mufti added. She alleged that the government was systematically penalising Kashmiris and pushing them out of the system. And the government here is systematically punishing Kashmiris, removing them from the system. You are excluding them from examinations, excluding them from jobs, she said. Mufti also warned against a situation where Kashmiri candidates could become under-represented in the bureaucracy. Tomorrow, 10 years from now, God forbid, a day should not come when there are no Kashmiri brothers and sisters in the bureaucracy of Jammu and Kashmir, she said. Referring to the National Conference government's manifesto, Mufti said it had promised to rationalise reservations and constitute a sub-committee. You look at your manifesto. In the manifesto, you had said that you would rationalise reservation, she said. You would constitute a sub-committee. What happened to that sub-committee even after two years? Mufti recalled that the PDP had staged a protest outside Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's residence in December 2024, following which, she said, the Chief Minister had promised that the report would be submitted within six months. Two years have passed, but even after two years, that report has not been presented, she said. She said the PDP wanted to remind the government of its commitments and alleged that young people preparing for competitive examinations were being disadvantaged because they belonged to the open merit category. That youngster who works day and night, gives his blood and sweat, sits for the exam, sits again and again four times, five times and after that, even if he gets good marks, he is told that you will not get this job because you are from the open merit category, Mufti said. Because you are Kashmiri, she added. Mufti said the PDP would seek to reverse what she described as discriminatory policies if it returned to power. Three years from now, Inshallah, when the PDP government comes, what you are doing wrong today, we will correct, she said. The protest also saw demonstrators chanting, Jab jab NC darti hai, police ko aage karti hai (Whenever the NC is afraid, it brings the police forward), alongside slogans demanding the sub-committee report and justice for open merit students.

DTC strike enters day 5 as Delhi Metro hits record 82.4 lakh boardings

Delhi Metro saw record passenger boardings as a DTC bus drivers' strike entered its fifth day. Many commuters turned to the Metro, facing longer travel times and increased expenses. The drivers are demanding a wage revision and better social security benefits. DMRC increased services to manage the surge in passenger numbers. The strike continues to pressure the city's alternative public transport systems.

Asian Games: Manu Bhaker cherishes flag-bearer honour, urges Indian athletes to embrace experience

Digital Desk | Nagoya, Sep 19 (IANS) Manu Bhakers journey from a 16-year-old making her Asian Games debut to becoming one of Indias flag-bearers has given her a moment to reflect on how far she has come in sport. The double Olympic medallist, who will lead the Indian contingent alongside kabaddi star Pawan Sehrawat at the Asian Games opening ceremony here on Saturday, said the honour brought back memories of her early days in shooting. Honestly, when I got to know yesterday, I had all these flashback memories of my earlier days. And, you know, when I started, I never thought that this is where I could reach one day in my sport. So, it is definitely a very heartwarming feeling. I feel really proud, honoured, and happy to be chosen as the flag bearer of my homeland. I just want to say thank you to God and thank you to everyone for all the love and support, Manu said in an IOA video. Bhaker is competing at her third Asian Games, having first represented India at the 2018 edition in Jakarta and Palembang. Her recollection of her early Games experience also highlighted how demanding the schedule can be for shooters, with competitions often beginning soon after the opening ceremony. I remember I was 16 years old at my first Asian Games, and this is my third. My first one was in Jakarta, though we were in Palembang, which was really far from the main village, so we were not able to go there. The first ceremony I ever attended was at the Commonwealth Games. My coach Jaspal Sir was like, If you are the flag bearer, I will allow you to attend the ceremonies; otherwise, no, because we usually have our matches starting from Day 1 or 2, so it gets very hectic for us in shooting. Usually, our competitions start right the day after the opening ceremony. So after that, it turned out that every time I attended an opening ceremony, I was either holding the flag or watching it on TV. It feels very nostalgic because I never imagined I would be here one day. Sports is just amazing! That is all I have to say right now, she said. With the Indian contingent preparing for competition, Bhaker also called on her fellow athletes to focus their energy on making the most of their opportunity rather than dwelling on issues surrounding the Games. To all the athletes participating from India in the Asian Games in Japan, my message is that yes, we will have some issues. I saw a couple of issues circulating on social media, and people telling me about this or that. Regardless, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and experience. We have to make sure that we enjoy this time rather than complaining, and have the best time of our lives, she said. She urged the athletes to concentrate on preparation and performance, regardless of the eventual medal tally. We should prepare as best as we can and try to perform at our best. We have all worked so hard to be here, and we cant waste our energy complaining about whats right or wrong. Instead, the best we can do is give our best. Winning a medal or not is a different story, but what is in our hands is to give our best. I really hope a lot of Indians will be cheering for us. Thank you so much, all the best to everyone, and God bless us all, she concluded.

Best Gaming Phones Under Rs 75,000 in India: iQOO 15, OnePlus 15R and More

Several smartphones under Rs. 75,000 offer hardware suited to demanding mobile games, including high-end processors, fast displays and large batteries. The iQOO 15 and OnePlus 15R feature displays with refresh rates of up to 144Hz and 165Hz, respectively, while the Motorola Edge 70 Max adds 360Hz touch sampling. The Poco X8 Pro Max stands out with its 9,000mAh battery and dedicated cooling system. The Vivo X200T rounds out the list with the Dimensity 9400+ chipset and a 120Hz AMOLED display.

Four students, driver injured as school bus collides with lorry on Chennai-Bengaluru NH near Ambur

Agitated residents stage a road blockade demanding better safety measures on the stretch; police arrest lorry driver

Asian Games: India to face potential Japan threat in QF as badminton draws revealed

Digital Desk | Nagoya, Sep 19 (IANS) Indias badminton teams have been handed contrasting but demanding routes at the Asian Games 2026, with the men facing Bangladesh and the women taking on Kazakhstan in their respective Round of 16 ties before potential quarterfinal clashes against Japan. The team events, which follow a knockout format, begin on Sunday and the Indian women will be the first in action against Kazakhstan, with the five-match tie offering a route into a last-eight meeting with hosts Japan, who have received a bye into the Round of 16. A Japanese challenge could bring some heavyweight singles contests, with PV Sindhu potentially facing Akane Yamaguchi and Unnati Hooda up against Tomoka Miyazaki. In doubles, Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand could be tested by Japans leading combinations, including Yuki Fukushima-Mayu Matsumoto and Kie Nakanishi-Suzu Iwana. China, the top seed, have been placed in the opposite half of the womens draw, ruling out a meeting with India before the final. A semifinal against South Korea could await India, with world champion An Se-young and the womens doubles combination of Baek Ha-na and Lee So-hee among the potential hurdles. Indias women have won just one Asian Games team medal, a bronze at the 2014 Incheon Games. That side, featuring Saina Nehwal, Sindhu and the Ashwini Ponnappa-Sikki Reddy combination, defeated Thailand 3-2 before losing 1-3 to South Korea in the semifinals. The Indian men, meanwhile, will begin their campaign against Bangladesh on Monday. The reigning silver medallists could then face Japan in the quarterfinals, setting up a possible singles battle between Lakshya Sen and Kodai Naraoka, while Ayush Shetty could meet Yushi Tanaka. Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty could face the Japanese pairing of Hiroki Okamura and Takuro Hoki, depending on the tie-ups. China or South Korea could await India in the semifinals, with all four teams drawn in the same half. Indonesia, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Chinese Taipei occupy the other side of the mens bracket, with Indonesia the top seed. India had claimed silver in the mens team event at Hangzhou, losing 2-3 to China in the final. The country also enjoyed a landmark individual campaign there, with Satwik and Chirag winning Indias first Asian Games badminton gold, while HS Prannoy secured bronze in mens singles. A 20-member Indian badminton contingent will compete across seven disciplines at Aichi-Nagoya 2026.

Salim Merchant gets trolled for visiting Kamakhya Mandir, gets questioned on religious beliefs

Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 19 (IANS) Music composer and singer Salim Merchant faced criticism from a section of social media users after he shared pictures from his visit to the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, Assam. The composer shared pictures with a friend, with both seen standing in front of the temple with folded hands after seeking blessings. In the pictures, Salim opted for a white T-shirt and dark trousers, with a red religious stole draped around his shoulders and a garland around his neck. Sharing the pictures on his social media account, Salim wrote in Hindi: Shakti ke charanon mein, Om Aim Hreem Kleem Kamakhye Namah. While many users responded with hearts, folded-hands emoticons and messages seeking Maa Kamakhya's blessings, some questioned Salim's visit and his expression of devotion. Among the comments were, Astaghfirullah from all muslims side (Seeking forgiveness from Allah on behalf of all Muslims.) One user wrote, Our shirk kia jiski maafi ni Quran me Hy btao saleem (Tell me, Salim, what about the shirk for which there is no forgiveness in the Quran.) Another user wrote, Ali Ali na kia kr na ahlbait ka zikar kia kr (Don't keep saying Ali Ali or mention the Ahl al-Bayt.) This is not the first time Salim's expressions of devotion towards Hindu deities have prompted discussion online. In March 2026, he spoke about his practice of offering prayers to Lord Shiva on Mondays while also observing Jummah prayers on Fridays. He said he respects both religions and described his connection with God and music as something difficult to put into words. On the professional front, Salim is one half of the composer duo Salim-Sulaiman, alongside his elder brother Sulaiman Merchant. The brothers have worked together for more than three decades and have composed music and background scores for numerous Hindi films. Their credits include films such as Chak De! India, Fashion, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi and Band Baaja Baaraat and many more.

Parents win $40 million award in Uber passenger death case

Carol Normandin and Ken Parker said on September 18 that they hope the amount will put a spotlight on the 2023 death of their daughter, Emily Normandin-Parker

IIT-Bombay student dies by suicide after being caught using AI during exam

A second-year IIT-Bombay student died by suicide on Friday evening. He had used an AI platform to seek answers during an examination. Students gathered demanding a probe into mental health concerns and institutional actions. The institute stated no disciplinary action was initiated against the student. This incident follows another student suicide at the same hostel on July 28.

North Korea rejects UN nuclear watchdog call to halt atomic activities

North Korea rejected a UN atomic watchdog resolution demanding nuclear activity halts. Pyongyang stated the resolution has no effect as it is not an IAEA member. A foreign ministry statement accused hostile forces of targeting its nuclear program. The country's nuclear weapons status is legally enshrined and irreversible. North Korea plans to enhance its self-defensive deterrent capabilities further.

Worth an Audit

Aross the length and breadth of the country, and particularly in J&K, there is an undeniable surge in civil construction. Earth movers dot the landscape, roads are being widened, drains are being dug, and public buildings are rising from the ground. To the untrained eye, this flurry of activity paints a picture of a region on the march, a testament to developmental focus and economic momentum. However, a closer, more discerning inspection reveals a deeply unsettling reality. The civil works, ubiquitous as they are, suffer from a chronic, systemic affliction: they are overwhelmingly of a shockingly low grade. We are building at an unprecedented pace, but we are building poorly. It is a facade of progress, masking an impending infrastructural disaster that will cost the exchequer and the taxpayer dearly in the years to come. To understand why newly laid roads wash away with the first monsoon showers, or why freshly plastered walls develop cracks before a project is even officially inaugurated, one must look at the genesis of the problem: the tendering process. The root cause of this infrastructural malaise lies in the prevailing culture of contractors quoting at the absolute minimum rate. Driven by a flawed procurement ecosystem that blindly worships the L1 (lowest bidder) metric, contractors engage in a race to the bottom. In their desperation to secure tenders and outbid competitors, they quote prices that are fundamentally detached from the economic realities of sound construction. Let us be brutally clear about the arithmetic of construction: quality comes at a price. When a contractor wins a bid at a rate that barely covers the base cost of standard operations, the profit marginand indeed, the survival marginmust be extracted from elsewhere. It is an open secret in the construction industry that an impossibly low bid is not a sign of incredible efficiency; it is a preamble to compromised quality. The government, by accepting these rock-bottom quotes without rigorously questioning their feasibility, becomes a willing accomplice in the degradation of its own infrastructure. We celebrate the financial savings on paper, completely ignoring the massive recurring costs of maintenance, repair, and premature replacement that will inevitably follow. When contractors are squeezed by the very minimum rates they themselves quoted, the immediate casualty is the material used. It is entirely obvious and utterly predictable. To make the math work, high-grade cement is routinely replaced with inferior alternatives, or the cement-to-sand ratio is cynically manipulated on site. The steel rebars, meant to provide the tensile backbone to our structures, are often of substandard gauge and quality. Bitumen on our roads is spread perilously thin, mixed with improper aggregates, and laid at incorrect temperatures to save on fuel and time. These are not victimless compromises. The use of low-quality materials directly translates to compromised structural integrity and public peril. A retaining wall built with adulterated concrete is a tragedy waiting to happen during the next heavy downpour. A road laid with insufficient bitumen becomes a series of hazardous potholes within months, endangering lives and slowing down economic activity. The contractor walks away with his profit margin intact, having fulfilled the bare minimum requirements on paper, while the public is left to navigate the crumbling remnants of so-called development. Yet, the minimum rate quotes and the resulting substandard materials are only symptoms of a much larger, more insidious disease. The most critical failure, the enabler of this entire charade is the glaring lack of supervision by the concerned departments. Contractors will naturally attempt to maximize their margins; it is the nature of business. But it is the sworn duty of the government departments, specifically the engineers, junior engineers, and site supervisors, to ensure that the work adheres strictly to the mandated specifications. Tragically, this supervisory mechanism has all but collapsed. Whether due to a crippling shortage of staff, institutional apathy, or a deeply entrenched nexus between the executors and the monitors, the oversight is practically non-existent. Bills are passed, and completion certificates are issued for work that barely passes a visual test, let alone rigorous quality control checks. The site supervisor is the first line of defense against substandard construction. When that defense is absent or compromised, the contractor is given a free pass to plunder the public purse through poor workmanship. The lack of on-site vigilance means that the engineering specifications detailed in the tender documents remain entirely fictional, existing only in files rather than on the ground. This brings us to the pressing situation in Jammu and Kashmir. The region is currently undergoing a massive infrastructural overhaul. From smart city projects in Srinagar and Jammu to rural road connectivity under various national schemes, hundreds of crores are being pumped into the UT. However, the whispers of discontent regarding the quality of these works are growing into a crescendo. Citizens are witnessing firsthand the slapdash manner in which drains are being constructed, roads are being patched, and public buildings are being erected. The harsh weather conditions of J&K, extreme winters, heavy snowfall, and torrential rains demand infrastructure of the highest resilience. Instead, we are getting fragile, low-grade constructions that will not survive a single harsh season. To improve the standard and quality of public work underway and infrastructure projects to follow latest standards in respective fields, we need a complete overhaul of our technical protocols. And similarly adopt Quality Standards for Audit criteria, ensuring that every assessment is measured against established national and international benchmarks rather than subjective observations. Another important aspect is training of Engineers in Government departments especially in J&K. There is hardly any training from the day a young engineer joins till his retirement. All he learns is by field experience. Upgradation of knowledge, adoption of new technologies is relevant in every engineering department else we will keep following old practices. In infrastructure development lot has changed in last 20 years. Trained engineers and upgradation in knowledge helps in better supervision of projects. State Government can use training establishments with various ministries and departments across the country. The economic ramifications of this infrastructural negligence in Jammu and Kashmir are profound. Our region relies heavily on two primary engines: tourism and agriculture. Both demand robust, reliable connectivity. When a vital arterial road connecting a tourist hotspot degrades rapidly due to low-grade bitumen and poor sub-base preparation, it is not just an inconvenience; it actively deters visitors, harming the local hospitality economy. Similarly, for the apple growers of Shopian or the saffron farmers of Pampore, every pothole on the route to the mandi translates to damaged produce and lost income. We are building infrastructure to supposedly boost these sectors, yet by allowing contractors to cut corners and by failing to supervise their work, we are actively sabotaging the very economic lifelines we aim to strengthen. The narrative of a new era cannot be built on foundations that crumble to dust at the slightest pressure. Some of the civil work currently happening in Jammu and Kashmir is, without a doubt, worth an audit. In fact, it desperately demands one. We cannot afford to squander this historic opportunity for infrastructural development on ephemeral, low-quality construction. A comprehensive, independent technical audit of all major civil works executed in the last few years is an absolute necessity. This audit must not merely look at the financial ledgers but must involve core sampling of concrete, thickness testing of roads, and a rigorous review of the materials used against the tender specifications. Accountability must be fixed not just on the contractors who executed the poor work, but equally on the officials who signed off on it. But audits take time, and the damage is being done today. Therefore, there is an immediate, actionable step that must be taken. It is high time that the senior officials of the Roads & Buildings (R&B) Department, and indeed the concerned Minister or the highest administrative authorities in the UT, step out of their secretariats. We need less boardroom planning and more on-ground inspection. A few unannounced, surprise visits to active construction sites by the top brass will send a shockwave through the system. When the highest levels of leadership demonstrate that they are invested in the quality of the work, and not just the completion of it, the entire bureaucratic machinery falls in line. The people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve infrastructure that stands the test of time, not infrastructure that requires rebuilding every two years. We must dismantle the unholy trinity of lowest-bidder obsession, substandard materials, and absent supervision. Development is not measured by the number of projects inaugurated, but by the durability and utility of the assets created. It is time to demand quality, enforce accountability, and ensure that every rupee of public money translates into solid, lasting public assets. The current state of civil works is not just a failure of engineering; it is a breach of public trust. An audit is not just warranted; it is an urgent moral imperative. Lt Gen R. S. Reen is a former DGQA

Protesters form human chain at Kennedy Center after Trump threatens demolition

Hundreds of activists gathered at the Kennedy Center Friday night in opposition to President Donald Trump's attempted takeover of the presidential memorial and threats that he will close and demolish it. Activists linked hands and formed a human chain outside the Washington venue, demanding Trump be removed as its chairman for failing to protect and manage it. Trump installed himself as chairman of the Kennedy Center last year after removing its previous leadership and replacing board members with his own appointees. Tom Brenner/Getty Images - PHOTO: Rally Held In Support Of The Kennedy Center In Washington, D.C. The demonstration opposes the recent sudden closure of the facility, the installation of security fencing, and political efforts to alter or demolish portions of the presidential memorial, the group said on its website. The Hands Off the Arts organization behind the rally and protest said they expect hundreds of people to gather on the center's steps for musical performances, testimonials and speeches before forming a human chain around the building. The group has held various protests outside the performing arts venue this year. The Kennedy Center can't be renamed for anyone else. It's a memorial to John F. Kennedy. It's like silly to suggest otherwise. And it's not just silly -- it's insulting and it's degrading and it's un-American, Miller told ABC News. J. Scott Applewhite/AP Photo - PHOTO: Trump Kennedy Center Miller, who was a former assistant manager of dance programming at the Kennedy Center, lost her job in 2025 as part of mass layoffs as the administration restructured the Kennedy Center. Trump says Kennedy Center could be 'ripped down' if he doesn't get 'recognition' Artists are the risk takers in our society, Miller said ... We are the people who create the world that comes next, and that is what the Kennedy Center means to all of us. This is a building that belongs to the American people, not one person and it's our Kennedy Center. We are the Kennedy Center. The activist coalition, which says it formed after leadership changes at the Kennedy Center in recent months, said its goal is to reclaim the Kennedy Center from authoritarian overreach and protect other arts and cultural institutions from similar fates, according to the group's website. Earlier this week, Trump said the Kennedy Center could be ripped down if his administration doesn't receive recognition on the performing artscenter as tensions over his name being removed from the venue mount. I think that the Trump administration should certainly have recognition. Because frankly, if we don't do that, it's going to close. It'll end up being ripped down, the president told reporters. Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: President Donald Trump is seen aboard Air Force One looking at a large printout of the Kennedy Center after landing at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland on September 16, 2026. A federal judge on Thursday ordered the Kennedy Center to provide 30 days' notice before making any major physical changes to the building, including demolishing it as Trump has threatened. U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper issued the order after lawyers for Democratic Rep. Joyce Beatty, an ex officio member of the board, cited Trumps warning that the center could be ripped down and submitted photographs appearing to show the Trump examining a placard labeled Kennedy Center DEMOLISHED on Wednesday night. The photos were taken Wednesday night through a cabin window on Air Force One. President Donald Trump is seen aboard Air Force One looking at a large printout of the Kennedy Center after landing at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland on September 16, 2026. Trump says Kennedy Center could be 'ripped down' if he doesn't get 'recognition' The venue cannot install memorials for President Trump or anyone or anything else at the Kennedy Center without Congresss blessing, Cooper ruled. The judge earlier this week ruled that Trump's name could not be added to the center's exterior without congressional approval. The board previously placed his name on the facade, and removed it in June after an earlier ruling. Trump has argued that the center is in poor condition and requires substantial government support to remain open. It's in very, very bad shape, very dangerous shape, Trump said Wednesday. You see steel falling down. You see plaster falling off ceilings. You see a lot of dangers. ABC News' Sarah Beth Hensley contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on ABC News at https://abcnews.com/Politics/protesters-plan-form-human-chain-kennedy-center-amid/story?id=136558872

Uniform comes with responsibility, risk: DGP

Srinagar, Sep 18: Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat on Friday congratulated the newly selected officers of the J&K Police (Gazetted) Service, reminding them that wearing the uniform carries immense responsibility and can involve serious risks, including to their lives. Addressing the newly selected candidates on the sidelines of a function at Lok Bhavan here, Prabhat said the occasion marked a moment of happiness for the candidates and their families, but also the beginning of a demanding professional journey. Today is a day of happiness for you and your families. You must also realise that wearing the uniform is not easy. It comes with responsibility, the DGP said. He said the officers would encounter several challenges during their service and could face situations in which their lives may be at risk. There will be challenges with this responsibility and there will be a risk to your lives. But I hope that during your training, you will be made strong enough to face every situation, Prabhat said. The DGP said the training programme would equip the newly selected officers with the skills, knowledge and confidence required to deal with the demands of police service and discharge their duties with dedication. When you come to the academy, I will speak to you in detail and interact with you personally, he said. Prabhat congratulated the newly selected officers and wished them success as they prepare to begin their careers in the Jammu and Kashmir Police.

Uri-NH to remain closed on Sep 20 for hill-cutting work

Srinagar, Sep 18: The Uri national highway will remain temporarily closed to vehicular traffic on September 20 to facilitate hill-cutting work, authorities said on Friday. According to an order issued by Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Uri Prince Kumar, the closure has been permitted following a request from the Officer Commanding, 53 RCC (GREF), for carrying out the hill-cutting work along the highway. The closure will remain in force during the execution of the work, with the authorities advising commuters, the general public and transport operators to use the alternative route via Bandi-Paranpillan-Dachi. The executing agency has been directed to reopen the highway for vehicular movement immediately after completion of the hill-cutting work, subject to necessary safety clearance of the site and ensuring the safety of commuters. The order was issued by the SDM Uri on the request of 53 RCC (GREF).

Kashmiri Pandits hail Gangbal Yatra, thank admin for support

Ganderbal, Sep 18: Kashmiri Pandit devotees participating in the annual Harmukh-Gangbal Yatra on Friday described the pilgrimage as an age-old tradition and an important part of Kashmirs cultural heritage, while expressing gratitude to the administration for facilitating the event. The 18th Harmukh-Gangbal Yatra commenced from Naranag in the Kangan area of central Kashmirs Ganderbal district, with devotees heading towards the high-altitude Gangbal Lake. Speaking to Rising Kashmir, a Kashmiri Pandit devotee said the pilgrimage has been associated with the communitys traditions for generations and is observed annually to preserve the practice. He said devotees perform snan (ritual bathing), pooja and other religious rituals at Gangbal Lake before returning from the high-altitude site. According to him, the main religious observance is held on the eighth day of the Shukla Paksha. The devotee said people from the Kashmiri Pandit community as well as members of other communities participate in the yatra and visit the sacred site. He also thanked the civil administration, police and security agencies for making arrangements for the pilgrimage. He said the presence of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at Naranag to flag off the yatra had added significance to the occasion for the devotees. Every year the administration comes forward to address our concerns and facilitate the yatra. We are thankful to them, he said. Referring to the historical significance of the pilgrimage, he said the Gangbal Yatra has a long cultural and religious history and is mentioned in traditional Kashmiri texts, including the Nilamata Purana and writings associated with Kalhana. Another devotee said the annual pilgrimage had resumed in 2009 after remaining suspended for a period due to disturbances. He said devotees were particularly enthusiastic about undertaking the journey this year. He credited the local administration, police, Army, CRPF and other agencies for working in coordination to facilitate the pilgrimage. The devotees also appealed to people to participate in the yatra in the coming years, describing it as an occasion that promotes peace and communal harmony. The Harmukh-Gangbal Yatra is held annually from Naranag to Gangbal Lake, located at the foothills of Mount Harmukh. The pilgrimage involves a demanding trek through the high-altitude terrain before devotees reach the lake for religious observances.

Protest Over GHMC Garbage Collection Privatisation

Women engaged in garbage collection also joined the protest, demanding that the task not be assigned to private firms.

White Knight Corps GOC visits encounter site

Jammu Tawi, Sept 18 : A day after security forces killed two Pakistani terrorists belonging to the proscribed outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Jammu-based White Knight Corps, Lt Gen P K Mishra, on Friday visited the encounter scene in Udhampur district to review the ongoing counter terrorism operation, the Army said. Lt [] The post White Knight Corps GOC visits encounter site appeared first on Northlines .

Tejas & Htt-40 Trainers, Dhruv Choppers Take Flight: Hal's Big Push To Build India's Aerospace Power

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited handed over Tejas twin-seater trainers and HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft to the Indian Air Force, along with Dhruv NG helicopters to Pawan Hans, at a Bengaluru ceremony marking a key self-reliance milestone. The HTT-40, with 56% indigenous content and 70 units ordered for Rs 6,800 crore, replaces the Pilatus PC-7 at the basic flying stage, while Tejas trainers support advanced fighter conversion, together strengthening India's homegrown pilot training pipeline. The HTT-40 delivery is running a year late and still relies on an American Honeywell engine. This comes even as the broader Tejas Mk1A fighter programme faces serious delays, with only 10 of a needed engine supply delivered by GE Aerospace against 27 airframes built. Looking ahead, the IAF is also drafting demanding requirements for its next advanced trainer, featuring fly-by-wire controls, NavIC-based navigation and simulator-linked training systems, signalling a broader push to build a genuinely indigenous training ecosystem for India's fighter pilots.#HAL #HindustanAeronauticsLimited #Tejas #TejasTrainer #TejasMk1A #HTT40 #DhruvNG #IndianAirForce

Tamil Nadu Delta farmers continue sit-in protest near Tiruchirappalli demanding full loan waiver

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HAL hands twin-seater Tejas fighter jet trainers, HTT-40 basic trainers to IAF

Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Sep 18 (IANS) Government-owned aerospace giant Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) handed over two Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas final operational clearance twin-seater trainers and three HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft to the Indian Air Force (IAF), along with four Dhruv next-generation helicopters to Pawan Hans Limited, on Friday. The platforms were displayed, and a pooja was performed in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Minister of Civil Aviation K. Rammohan Naidu at the handing-over ceremony. Singh also sat inside the Dhruv next-generation (NG) chopper, which was displayed at the venue. The helicopter is a HAL-designed and manufactured 5.5-tonne, light twin-engine, multi-role helicopter. The handover marks an important milestone in the countrys self-reliance journey, as the event highlighted the role HAL and its industry partners play in strengthening the domestic aerospace ecosystem. The Defence Minister said combat effectiveness can be ensured only through a combination of well-trained personnel, advanced technology, integrated systems, and rapid decision-making. He said the LCA trainer will play a crucial role in preparing pilots for this demanding operational environment. He added that while the Dhruv-NG exemplifies indigenous civil aerospace prowess, the LCA trainer stands as a symbol of indigenous military aerospace capability and the maturity of its fighter aircraft ecosystem. Singh said India had relied for years on imported aircraft to meet its basic training requirements, but HAL is now manufacturing the HTT-40 indigenously to meet the IAF's needs. Highlighting the aircrafts export potential, he said the HTT-40 would find demand in international markets and fulfil its intended role in strengthening Indias aerospace capabilities. The Defence Minister highlighted HALs expertise across aircraft manufacturing, helicopter development, overhaul, repair, maintenance, and aerospace engineering, calling it a pillar in Indias endeavour to build indigenous aerospace capabilities. He exhorted HAL to further expand its capabilities across the entire aerospace value chain, including design, development, manufacturing, certification, lifecycle support, and global marketing. Singh called for realistic project timelines to address delays in ongoing technical projects. He noted that delays can create gaps in meeting critical defence requirements, lead to cost escalations, and increase the risk of technology obsolescence. Terming R&D a crucial priority area, the Defence Minister urged young scientists, engineers, designers, test pilots, and technicians to take it as a challenge to create technologies that do not exist today. He urged them to develop capabilities that secure India's leading position in the global aerospace technology landscape over the coming decade.

Court rejects BRS leaders remand after dramatic arrest over social media post

Digital Desk | Hyderabad, Sep 18 (IANS) A city court on Friday rejected the remand of BRS leader Manne Krishank, hours after his dramatic arrest by police, who broke open the locked door of his residence. Nampally court refused to send Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) social media convenor Krishank to judicial custody after his arrest over a social media post. On a remand petition filed by the police, the court said it was rejecting the remand request in view of the guidelines laid down by the Supreme Court. Earlier, police arrested Krishank from his residence after high drama. A large number of policemen had surrounded his residence since early morning. As the BRS leader had locked himself in, the police officers made repeated requests to him to come out. As Krishank did not come out, police broke open the lock of the iron grill to enter the house and arrested him. Krishank was booked for a social media post about an incident in which BRS Working President K. T. Rama Raos personal assistant and public relations officers were allegedly attacked in Saifabad Police Station on September 14. Why did they need to come with 100 policemen just because I tweeted asking who entered the Saifabad police station wearing masks? Am I some criminal? Am I trying to escape anywhere? asked Krishank. He said police came to his house at 5 a.m., broke the locks on the gate, and even tried to break the door. He said his 7-year-old child had an exam but couldn't go because of the police raid. He said the child sat at home, terrified by the police brutality. Is all this happening just because I questioned Congress corruption, atrocities, and failures and spoke about Revanth Reddy's brother's shell company? They've already filed numerous illegal cases against me and put me in jail twice. No matter how many illegal cases they file or how much they threaten me, I have no intention to stop questioning them, he said. K. T. Rama Rao condemned the manner in which police arrested Krishank. He questioned Congress leader Rahul Gandhi if criticising the government is a sin. Rahul Gandhi, you carry a copy of the Constitution and preach sermons. You claim your politics is about Mohabbat Ki Dukaan. You talk about free speech. But your government in Telangana is acting in exactly the opposite manner. Telangana police broke open the doors and barged into the home of our party leader Krishank, arrested him over a mere social media post criticising the government. Krishanks daughter was left crying inconsolably as police personnel created chaos, Rama Rao said in a post on X. Despite clear orders from the Honble Supreme Court and High Court against making arrests over social media posts, your Revanth government in Telangana is murdering democracy and flouting all democratic principles. Is questioning the Congress government a sin? Is criticising the ruling dispensation a crime? Is this the way to arrest an opposition party leader by terrifying his family members? Telangana is demanding answers, Mr Rahul Gandhi, he added.

Farmers walkout from grievance redress meeting demanding complete waiver of crop loans

NHM employees defer strike after written assurance from J&K Health Minister

Srinagar, Sep 18: National Health Mission (NHM) employees on Friday deferred their strike after the association got written assurance from Health Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Sakeena Itoo. The breakthrough came after a meeting between the striking employees and the government, where the minister gave assurance in writing that the legitimate demands of protesting NHM employees will be examined and necessary steps will be taken. The representatives of NHM employees while addressing media said that after getting written assurance from Health Minister Sakeena Itoo, the employees have decided to defer their strike. They said the assurance from the health minister depicts the government is also concerned over the demands put forth by the NHM protesting employees. The representative said the strike has been deferred for a month and it is hoped the government will take serious steps in resolving of our long pending demands. Notably the protesting NHM employees have been demanding settlement of their long-pending issues pertaining to job security, regularization and other service matters. The employee leaders expressed gratitude to the minister for giving a written assurance and hoped their legitimate and genuine demands will be addressed with sincerity.

Best Apple Watch 2026: Series 12 vs Ultra 4 vs SE 3

Macworld Choosing the right Apple Watch depends on your budget, lifestyle and which features matter most to you. As of September 2026, Apples lineup consists of the Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4 and Apple Watch SE 3, although the various combinations of case size, material, color and band can make choosing one seem like a bit of a minefield. The Apple Watch Series 12 is the best choice for most people, combining a tougher display and more advanced heart-rate sensing with an S11 chip and 24-hour battery life. The larger and more rugged Apple Watch Ultra 4 is designed for endurance sports and outdoor adventures, offering precision GPS, diving features and up to 50 hours of battery life. The Apple Watch SE 3 remains the best-value option for buyers who want the core Apple Watch experience and can live without features such as ECG and the latest health sensors. Apple updated the Series and Ultra models in September 2026, but the SE was unchanged. However, the SE 3 only arrived in 2025 and includes significant improvements over its predecessor, including an always-on display, temperature sensing and the same S10 chip found in the Series 11. You may also find older models at a discount, but check that the saving is worthwhile and bear in mind that watchOS 27 no longer supports every older Apple Watch. See our roundup of the best Apple Watch deals for the latest prices. In this guide, well explain the differences between the current models and help you decide whether you need to spend more on the Series 12 or Ultra 4 or whether the SE 3 offers everything you need. Well compare their features, specifications and prices, as well as explain the choices of sizes, case materials, colors and bands, so you can buy the Apple Watch that best suits your needs. Best Apple Watch: At a glance recommendations Buy the Apple Watch Ultra 4 if Buy the Apple Watch Series 12 if Buy the Apple Watch SE 3 if Charging You regularly spend 2+ days away from a charger. You charge your watch daily without issue. You dont mind charging your watch daily. Activity You are a runner, hiker, cyclist, or diver. You are a general fitness user or casual athlete. You want everyday fitness and activity tracking. Display You need the brightest display (3,000 nits) for outdoor visibility. You prefer a lighter, less bulky watch. You want an always-on display at the lowest price. Health & Safety You want satellite communication for safety. You want the best value for the core health features. You dont need ECG or advanced health sensing. Need You need the toughest, most durable build (titanium, sapphire crystal). You want a choice of sizes (42mm or 46mm) and materials (aluminum, ceramic). You want an affordable watch for a child or older relative. Apple Watch Series 12 Best Apple Watch for most people Pros Advanced heart-rate sensing Tougher Ceramic Shield display Powerful Audio Intelligence features Cons Battery life same as previous generation No satellite connectivity Price When Reviewed: $399 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $389.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The Apple Watch Series 12 is Apples mainstream premium smartwatch and the best choice for most people. Its S11 chip powers a redesigned heart-rate sensor system that measures your heart rate every five seconds throughout the day. It also enables Audio Intelligence features including Sound Recognition, Live Rewind and Siri Recap. The design remains familiar, but Apple has introduced new finishes: Light Gold and Dark Bronze replace Silver and Rose Gold on aluminum models, while Radiant Gold replaces Gold on titanium versions. Ceramic cases also return in Night Blue and Pearl White. Prices still start at $399, although some configurations cost more than their Series 11 equivalents. Key advantages and limitations Aluminum models now use Ceramic Shield 2, which Apple claims is 60 percent more durable than the Ion-X glass used on the aluminum Series 11. Battery life remains at 24 hours, but outdoor workout tracking increases to 10 hours and the watch can charge to 80 percent in around 30 minutes. Live Rewind can display a transcript of the previous 15 seconds of a conversation when you double-press the Digital Crown. However, assigning that gesture to Live Rewind means the traditional App Switcher is no longer available, making multitasking less convenient. The Series 12 also lacks the Ultra 4s satellite connectivity, 50-hour battery life and brighter, more rugged display. Who should buy the Apple Watch Series 12? The Series 12 is the best option for anyone who wants Apples latest health and smart features without the size or price of the Ultra 4. Its advanced heart-rate sensing, Readiness score, tougher display and relatively compact design make it particularly attractive to health-conscious users and anyone upgrading from a Series 9 or older. Who shouldnt buy one? Series 10 and 11 owners probably wont gain enough to justify upgrading, especially because the quoted 24-hour battery life is unchanged. Outdoor adventurers who need satellite connectivity, extended workout tracking or maximum battery life should consider the Ultra 4 instead. Should I buy an older version of the Apple Watch Series? A discounted Series 10 or 11 could offer better value if you dont need the new health sensing or Audio Intelligence features. The Series 9 is also still compatible with watchOS 27. Avoid the Series 8 and older models unless they are exceptionally cheap, because they cannot run watchOS 27 and will miss out on future feature updates. Apple Watch Ultra 4 Best Apple Watch for adventurers and endurance athletes Pros Exceptional 50-hour battery Advanced outdoor capabilities More frequent health measurements Cons Large and heavy Expensive for everyday users Price When Reviewed: $799 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $799 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is Apples most rugged and capable smartwatch, designed for endurance athletes and outdoor adventurers. It retains the Ultra 3s 49mm titanium case, 3,000-nit display, Action button, dual-frequency GPS, satellite connectivity, 100-meter water resistance and recreational diving support. Inside, the new S11 processor powers the redesigned heart-rate sensing system also found in the Series 12. It measures heart rate every five seconds throughout the day and enables Audio Intelligence features including Sound Recognition, Live Rewind and Siri Recap. Key advantages and limitations Battery life is the Ultra 4s biggest improvement, increasing from 42 to 50 hours under normal use. Extended Workout mode provides up to 25 hours with full GPS and heart-rate measurements, while Max Extended Workout mode can track outdoor runs and walks for up to 45 hours. Charging is faster too, with a 15-minute charge providing up to 18 hours of use. Satellite connectivity, precision dual-frequency GPS, diving support and the bright display make it particularly well suited to demanding environments. However, its 49mm case is large and heavy, while charging to 80 percent takes around 45 minutes, compared with approximately 30 minutes for the Series 12. The external design is also largely unchanged. Pricing remains at $799, twice the Series 12s starting price. Who should buy the Apple Watch Ultra 4? Choose the Ultra 4 if you need the longest Apple Watch battery life, highly accurate GPS, satellite connectivity, diving support or extended workout tracking. It is particularly suited to runners, hikers, cyclists, divers and anyone who regularly spends more than a day away from a charger. Its extended battery life could also appeal to travelers and people working long shifts, even if they dont participate in extreme sports. Who shouldnt buy one? Most people will be better served by the smaller and less expensive Series 12. It provides the same S11 processor, redesigned heart-rate sensing and principal Audio Intelligence features without the Ultras bulk or $799 price. If you dont need satellite communication, precision GPS, diving support or exceptionally long workout tracking, you are unlikely to benefit from the additional expense. Should I buy an older Apple Watch Ultra? The Ultra 3 remains a strong alternative if substantially discounted, although its battery lasts up to 42 rather than 50 hours. The Ultra 2 is the oldest model compatible with watchOS 27 and may also be worth considering at the right price, but it lacks some newer connectivity and battery improvements. Avoid the original Ultra unless it is exceptionally inexpensive, because it cannot run watchOS 27. Apple Watch SE 3 Best budget Apple Watch Pros Excellent value for money Useful always-on display Fast, capable S10 chip Cons Missing advanced health sensors Shorter 18-hour battery life Price When Reviewed: $249 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $249 View Deal $249 View Deal $249.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The Apple Watch SE 3 is Apples most affordable smartwatch and the best-value model in the current lineup. Introduced in September 2025, it brought substantial improvements over the SE 2, including an always-on display, the S10 processor used by the Series 11, temperature sensing, fast charging and 64GB of storage. It also supports Double Tap and Wrist Flick gestures, on-device Siri and media playback through its speaker. The aluminum case comes in Midnight or Starlight, but there is no longer a Silver option. Prices start at $249/219, although it can fall as low as $199 during sales. Key advantages and limitations The SE 3 provides the essential Apple Watch experience, including fitness and sleep tracking, Sleep Score, heart-rate alerts, temperature-based cycle tracking, Fall Detection and Crash Detection. Its Ion-X display glass is four times more crack-resistant than that of the SE 2, while cellular versions add 5G connectivity. Battery life remains limited to 18 hours, although Low Power Mode extends this to 32 hours. Fast charging reaches approximately 80 percent in 45 minutes, and a 15-minute charge provides around eight hours of use. The SE 3 lacks ECG, Blood Oxygen monitoring, hypertension notifications and the redesigned Health Sensing System found on the Series 12. Its 1,000-nit display, thicker bezels and limited material choices also make it feel less premium. Who should buy the Apple Watch SE 3? The SE 3 is ideal for first-time Apple Watch buyers and anyone who wants fitness tracking, notifications and safety features without paying for advanced health sensors. It is also a strong option for children when using the cellular model with Family Setup, and for older users who could benefit from Fall Detection, Emergency SOS and heart-rate monitoring. Who shouldnt buy one? Choose the Series 12 instead if you want ECG, Blood Oxygen monitoring, hypertension notifications, more advanced heart-rate sensing or a brighter, more premium display. Buyers who need multi-day battery life, satellite connectivity or specialist outdoor features should consider the Ultra 4. Should I buy an older Apple Watch SE? No. The SE 2 cannot run watchOS 27 and lacks the SE 3s always-on display, temperature sensing, faster charging, newer gestures and additional storage. Even at a substantial discount, its reduced software lifespan makes it difficult to recommend in 2026. Read our full Apple Watch SE 3 (40mm) review watchOS 27 features: Whats new and what requires Series 12 or Ultra 4 Apple released a new version of the software that runs on the Apple Watch watchOS 27 on September 14, 2026, but not every new feature is available on every supported watch. Some improvements are software-led and work across compatible models, while others depend on the S11 chip and redesigned sensors in the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4. The hardware-dependent health features unique to the 2026 Watches include background heart-rate measurements every five seconds and HRV (heart rate variability) measurements every five minutes . The Series 12 and Ultra 4 also gain the Readiness app , which analyzes recent activity, training load, sleep and health data to produce a daily recovery score. Other exclusives include daytime resting heart-rate and HRV data in Vitals, a real-time chart in the Heart Rate app, more accurate all-day step counting and a Steps complication that updates on the watch face. The S11 chip also enables Apples Audio Intelligence features . Automatic Music Recognition uses Shazam to identify nearby songs and display them in the Smart Stack, while Sound Recognition can detect doorbells, alarms, sirens and crying babies without relying on the iPhone. Live Rewind displays a transcript of the previous 15 seconds of conversation after a double-press of the Digital Crown; it does not save an audio recording. Siri Recap produces high-level summaries of conversations. Live Rewind and Siri Recap are expected to arrive in beta later in 2026 and require a compatible Apple Intelligence iPhone and Siri AI. Other watchOS 27 features are more widely available. These include the Dynamic App Grid , redesigned Find My app , menopause and perimenopause tracking, Call Context and Workout Buddy improvements. Apple has also introduced the Longevity section and Health Age . Compatibility is considerably more restricted than it was with watchOS 26. Series 9 and Ultra 2 are now the oldest supported models, while the SE 3 is the only compatible SE. The Series 6, Series 7, Series 8, SE 2 and original Ultra cannot install watchOS 27. Anyone considering a discounted older Apple Watch should therefore choose a Series 9, Series 10, Series 11, Ultra 2 or Ultra 3 if receiving current feature updates is important. See: These Apple Watches are now obsolete. Apple Watch comparison chart: Apple Watches specs compared Apple Watch SE 3 Apple Watch Series 12 Apple Watch Ultra 4 Price from $249/219 $399/369 $799/749 Screen size 40mm or 44mm 42mm or 46mm 49mm Display Always-on, up to 1,000 nits Always-on LTPO3, up to 2,000 nits Always-on LTPO3, up to 3,000 nits Weight from 40mm: 26.3g; 44mm: 32.9g 42mm: 32.2g; 46mm: 39.5g 63g Materials Aluminum Aluminum, titanium or ceramic Grade 5 titanium Colors Midnight, Starlight Aluminum: Dark Bronze, Light Gold, Black, Space Gray; Titanium: Radiant Gold, Natural; Ceramic: Pearl White, Night Blue Natural, Black Processor S10 S11 S11 Battery life Up to 18 hours; 32 hours in Low Power Mode; 080% in about 45 minutes Up to 24 hours; 38 hours in Low Power Mode; 080% in about 30 minutes Up to 50 hours; 84 hours in Low Power Mode; 080% in about 45 minutes Extra features Double Tap and Wrist Flick; on-device Siri; speaker media playback; 64GB storage Single Tap, Double Tap and Wrist Flick; Siri AI; Audio Intelligence; Readiness; Precision Finding; depth gauge; water-temperature sensor; media playback Series 12 features plus Action button, precision dual-frequency GPS, satellite communication, Siren, dual speakers, three-microphone array and extended workout modes Health features Heart-rate monitoring; high, low and irregular rhythm notifications; temperature sensing; Cycle Tracking with ovulation estimates; sleep stages; Sleep Score; sleep apnea notifications Health Sensing System; high-frequency heart-rate and HRV tracking; ECG; Blood Oxygen; hypertension notifications; Readiness; daytime Vitals; advanced Cycle Tracking; Sleep Score; sleep apnea notifications Same advanced health features as Series 12 Safety features Emergency SOS, international emergency calling, Fall Detection and Crash Detection Emergency SOS, international emergency calling, Fall Detection, Crash Detection, Check In and Backtrack Series 12 safety features plus Emergency SOS, Messages and Find My via satellite, and Siren Water features Water resistant to 50 meters; suitable for swimming Water resistant to 50 meters; depth gauge to 6 meters; water-temperature sensor; suitable for swimming and snorkeling Water resistant to 100 meters; depth gauge and recreational diving to 40 meters; water-temperature sensor; suitable for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving and high-speed water sports Connectivity Precision L1 GPS; optional 5G/LTE cellular Precision L1 GPS; optional 5G/LTE cellular; second-generation Ultra Wideband Precision dual-frequency GPS; 5G/LTE cellular; second-generation Ultra Wideband; satellite connectivity Which size Apple Watch should you choose? Choosing the right Apple Watch size depends on your wrist, how much display space you want and which model you prefer. Apples current lineup ranges from the compact 40mm Apple Watch SE 3 to the rugged 49mm Ultra 4. Model Available sizes Case dimensions Best for Apple Watch SE 3 40mm or 44mm 40mm: 40 34 10.7mm; 44mm: 44 38 10.7mm Smaller wrists, lighter watches and budget-conscious buyers. The 40mm version is the smallest current Apple Watch. Apple Watch Series 12 42mm or 46mm 42mm: 42 37 9.7mm; 46mm: 46 40 9.7mm The best balance of display size and wearability for most people. Apple Watch Ultra 4 49mm 49 44 12mm Athletes and adventurers who want the largest display, most durable construction and longest battery life. The Series 12 ceramic cases are slightly larger: approximately 43mm and 47mm rather than 42mm and 46mm. Apple Watch Series 12 (46mm) Price When Reviewed: $549 Best Prices Today: $549 at Amazon Foundry Consider your wrist size and comfort The watch should feel secure without dominating your wrist or restricting movement. The 40mm SE 3 is the best option for particularly small wrists, while the 42mm Series 12 provides a larger display in a case that remains manageable for most people. If possible, try both sizes in an Apple Store before buying. Consider display size and readability A larger screen makes text, notifications and onscreen controls easier to see and use. The 49mm Ultra 4 has the largest display, but its 63g titanium case is substantially heavier than the aluminum Series 12 or SE 3. The 46mm Series 12 offers a spacious display without the Ultras additional bulk. Consider whether you need the Ultra Dont choose the Ultra 4 solely because it has the largest screen. Its size makes most sense if you also need its rugged titanium construction, satellite connectivity, precision dual-frequency GPS, diving support or 50-hour battery life. For everyday use, the Series 12 will generally be more comfortable. Check band compatibility Apple Watch bands arent universally interchangeable. Bands designed for smaller cases generally fit the 38mm, 40mm, 41mm and newer 42mm watches, while larger bands work with 44mm, 45mm, 46mm and 49mm models. However, the older 42mm case belongs to the larger band family, so check the compatibility information before reusing or ordering a band. Aluminum, titanium or ceramic: Which Apple Watch material is best? Foundry Another consideration when buying an Apple Watch is its case material, which affects its durability, weight, appearance and price. Apple currently offers aluminum, titanium and ceramic cases, although the available materials depend on the model. Aluminum: Best for most people Aluminum is the lightest and most affordable choice. It is the only material available for the Apple Watch SE 3 and the entry-level option for the Series 12, helping to keep their starting prices at $249 and $399 respectively. It is a good choice for everyday wear, fitness and sleep tracking because it feels lighter on the wrist than the premium alternatives. The SE 3 uses Ion-X display glass, which Apple says is four times more crack-resistant than that of the SE 2. The aluminum Series 12 has the tougher Ceramic Shield 2 display, which Apple claims is 60 percent more durable than the Ion-X glass used by the aluminum Series 11. Titanium: Best for premium durability Titanium is available with the Series 12 and is the only case material offered with the Ultra 4. It provides a more premium finish and is paired with highly scratch-resistant sapphire crystal rather than the glass used on aluminum models. The Series 12 titanium case is available in Natural or Radiant Gold. It is a good option for anyone who wants a more luxurious and durable everyday watch without moving up to the much larger Ultra. The Ultra 4 uses a rugged Grade 5 titanium case in Natural or Black. It is designed for outdoor adventures, endurance sports and diving, with a 49mm case, 100-meter water resistance and recreational diving support. However, its size and 63g weight make it less comfortable for smaller wrists and sleep tracking. Ceramic: Best for distinctive styling Ceramic returns as a premium Series 12 option in Pearl White and Night Blue. It has a glossy, distinctive finish and uses a sapphire crystal display, but it is heavier and considerably more expensive than the aluminum version. The ceramic cases are also slightly larger than the other Series 12 configurations. Which material is best for Apple Watch? For most buyers, aluminum offers the best balance of price, durability and comfort. Choose titanium if you want a more premium finish, sapphire crystal or the Ultra 4s specialized outdoor capabilities. Ceramic is primarily a style-led luxury choice for buyers who want the most distinctive Series 12 and are prepared to pay more for it. Which Apple Watch strap should you choose? Eugen Wegmann The right Apple Watch strap depends on how you intend to use your watch. Apple offers options for everyday wear, sleep tracking, exercise, water sports and formal occasions, while third-party manufacturers provide an even wider range of styles and prices. Strap Best for Key characteristics Sport Band Everyday wear, workouts and swimming Durable rubber with a secure pin-and-tuck closure. Water and sweat resistant, but less breathable than fabric. Sport Loop Sleep tracking and all-day comfort Soft, lightweight and breathable nylon with an adjustable hook-and-loop fastener. Nike Sport Band Running and intense workouts Similar to the Sport Band but perforated for improved ventilation. Nike Sport Loop Running and everyday wear A breathable fabric alternative to the Nike Sport Band. Solo Loop Everyday wear and sleep Stretchable silicone with no clasp or buckle. Comfortable, but choosing the correct size is essential. Braided Solo Loop Comfort with a smarter finish A stretchable woven band that feels more premium than the standard Solo Loop. Alpine Loop Hiking and outdoor adventures Durable double-layer textile with a secure titanium G-hook. Designed for the Apple Watch Ultra. Trail Loop Running, hiking and all-day wear Apples lightest Ultra strap, with a pull tab for quick adjustments. Ocean Band Swimming, diving and water sports Water-resistant elastomer with a corrosion-resistant titanium buckle. Milanese Loop Work and formal occasions Metal mesh with a magnetic closure, offering a smart appearance and precise adjustment. Link Bracelet Formal and premium wear Apples premium metal bracelet, with removable links for adjusting the fit. Modern Buckle or Magnetic Link Smart everyday wear More formal alternatives to the sport-focused straps, available for selected case sizes. Herms straps Luxury and fashion Premium woven, rubber and metal designs made in collaboration with Herms. For most people, the Sport Loop is the best all-round choice because it is light, breathable and easy to adjust. Its softness also makes it particularly comfortable for sleep tracking. For workouts and swimming, choose a Sport Band or Nike Sport Band . The perforated Nike version provides better ventilation during intense exercise. Divers and regular swimmers should consider the Ocean Band , while runners and hikers may prefer the lighter Trail Loop or more rugged Alpine Loop . For work or formal occasions, the Milanese Loop , Link Bracelet , Modern Buckle and Magnetic Link provide a smarter appearance. Apples Herms collection offers the most luxuriousand most expensiveoptions. Before buying, check that the strap supports your Apple Watch case size and wrist measurement. Solo Loop and Braided Solo Loop straps require particularly careful sizing because they cannot be adjusted with a clasp. Third-party straps can offer excellent value, but quality, fit and fastening security vary considerably. Do I need a cellular Apple Watch? Whether you need a cellular Apple Watch depends mainly on how often you plan to leave your iPhone behind. For most buyers, the answer is no: a GPS-only Apple Watch offers better value and can already do a great deal without an active connection to an iPhone. Away from your iPhone, a GPS Apple Watch can still track workouts, monitor health, record location data, use Apple Pay and play music or podcasts downloaded to the watch. When connected to a known Wi-Fi network, it can also send and receive messages, make calls and use many online services. See our guide to Everything an Apple Watch can do without an iPhone . Cellular becomes useful when you regularly leave your iPhone at home but still want calls, messages, music streaming, navigation and notifications. This makes it particularly valuable for runners, cyclists, swimmers and gym users who dont want to carry a phone. It can also provide reassurance when you are walking alone or exercising away from Wi-Fi, because the watch can contact emergency services after a fall or crash using its own mobile connection. A cellular model is also the right choice when setting up an Apple Watch for a child or older relative who doesnt have an iPhone. Apple Watch For Your Kids, previously called Family Setup, allows a family members watch to be configured from another persons iPhone. A cellular plan enables calls, messages and location sharing when the watch is away from the managing iPhone. The drawbacks are cost and redundancy. A cellular Series or SE generally costs more than its GPS equivalent, and you must also pay your network provider a monthly fee. If your iPhone is nearly always in your pocket or bag, the watch will normally use its connection instead, leaving you paying for cellular service that you rarely need. See: I switched to a cellular Apple Watch to prove I didnt need one . Our recommendation : The Ultra 4 includes cellular as standard, so there is no GPS-only version. For the Series 12 and SE 3 , choose cellular only if you expect to leave your iPhone behind regularly or need Family Setup. Otherwise, save your money and buy the GPS model. For a more detailed comparison, see The pros and cons of a cellular Apple Watch . Can you use an Apple Watch without an iPhone? Yes, but with important caveats. An Apple Watch can do a surprising amount without an iPhone nearby, but an iPhone is required for the initial setup and to manage some settings. You cannot set up an Apple Watch using a Mac, iPad or Android phone. The exception is Apple Watch For Your Kids, previously called Family Setup. This allows a parent or guardian to use their iPhone to configure a cellular Apple Watch for a child or another family member who doesnt have an iPhone of their own. Once it has been set up, an Apple Watch can perform many tasks without its paired iPhone nearby and some dont require an internet connection at all. These include: Tracking workouts and activity: Record runs, walks and other exercises, close Activity rings and collect GPS data. The results sync with the iPhone when it reconnects. Monitoring health: Measure heart rate, track sleep, log medications and use other health features supported by the particular watch. Playing downloaded media: Listen to music, podcasts and audiobooks stored on the watch using Bluetooth headphones. Using Apple Pay: Make contactless payments without an iPhone or internet connection once Apple Pay has been configured. Using offline tools: Set alarms and timers, use the stopwatch and compass, and view photos that have been synced to the watch. Other features require either Wi-Fi or a cellular connection when the iPhone isnt nearby. With an internet connection, the watch can make and receive calls, send messages, check email, stream music and podcasts, use Maps and access online apps and services. Fall Detection and Crash Detection can still recognize an incident without the iPhone, but the watch requires Wi-Fi or its own cellular connection to contact emergency services. This is an important consideration if you are buying an Apple Watch for an older relative or someone who may regularly be away from their phone. An Apple Watch therefore cannot completely replace an iPhone, but it doesnt need to remain beside it throughout the day. For a complete breakdown, read all the things an Apple Watch can do without an iPhone . How we choose the best Apple Watch Macworlds Apple Watch recommendations draw on more than a decade of hands-on experience. Our writers have tested and reviewed every generation since the original Apple Watch, comparing each new model with both its current rivals and previous generations before deciding whether it deserves a recommendation. Our assessment focuses on the factors that make a meaningful difference in everyday use: Real-world testing: We assess comfort, build quality, display visibility, performance, battery life, charging, health sensors, fitness tracking and software features. We also consider how well the watch performs during everyday activities, workouts and sleep trackingnot simply how its specifications compare on paper. Value and upgrade potential: A newer or more expensive Apple Watch is not automatically the best choice. We consider whether its improvements justify the price, whether owners of recent models would benefit from upgrading and whether a discounted previous-generation watch offers better value. Honest recommendations: We clearly identify compromises such as limited battery life, missing health sensors, a bulky design or features that most people are unlikely to use. We dont recommend a product simply because it has the most impressive specifications. Advice for different buyers: There is no single Apple Watch that suits everyone. We recommend the Series 12 for most buyers, the SE 3 for those seeking the best value, and the Ultra 4 for endurance athletes and outdoor adventurers who need its longer battery life, rugged construction and specialist capabilities. Our final recommendations therefore combine extensive testing, expert judgment, price analysis and practical buying advice. The aim is not merely to identify the Apple Watch with the longest feature list, but to help you find the model that provides the right balance of features, comfort and value for the way you will actually use it. FAQ 1. Is now a good time to buy an Apple Watch Yes. Now is a great time to buy an Apple Watch because the brand-new Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 went on sale on September 18, 2026 and none of the line up is likely to be updated until September 2027. See: Should I buy an Apple Watch now or wait? 2. What is the difference between the Series 12 and SE 3? The Apple Watch Series 12 offers a brighter, tougher display, premium aluminum, titanium and ceramic cases, and the newer S11 chip. It also includes advanced health features such as ECG, Blood Oxygen monitoring, high-frequency heart-rate sensing and the Readiness app, plus exclusive Audio Intelligence features. Battery life is rated at 24 hours. The $249/219 SE 3 uses the S10 chip, lasts 18 hours and provides essential fitness, sleep and safety features, but lacks the Series 12s advanced sensors and premium materials. 3. Can you swim while wearing an Apple Watch? Yes, you can swim while wearing an Apple Watch, but the level of water resistance varies significantly depending on the model. The Apple Watch Ultra models are the most water-capable in the lineup. They are water-resistant to 100 meters and are suitable for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving (up to 40 meters), and high-speed water sports. The Ultra models also include a depth gauge (up to 40 meters) and a water temperature sensor, making them a genuine companion for divers and endurance swimmers. The standard Apple Watch Series 11 and Series 10 are water-resistant to 50 meters and are described as swimproof. They are perfectly safe for swimming in a pool or the ocean, as well as for snorkeling and casual diving down to about 6 meters. The Apple Watch SE 3 is also water-resistant to 50 meters and is considered swimproof. To prepare your Watch before swimming by swiping up to open Control Center and tapping the water drop icon to enable Water Lock mode to prevent accidental screen taps. After your swim, turn the Digital Crown to eject any water from the speaker.

SCR Pensioners Stage Protest At Rail Nilayam Demanding 8th Pay Panel Revision

The pensioners also demand scrapping of the validation Bill: Reports

More than 70 detained after police lathi-charge protesters demanding action for double murder in Kalaiyarkovil

Delhi DTC Strike: Drivers Allege Threats, Inducements As Authorities Push Buses Back On Roads

Contractual drivers demanding 2,000 daily wages allege pressure tactics as authorities work to restore disrupted bus services across Delhi.

BJP protests in Shikaripura; accuses Karnataka government of neglecting farmers

Digital Desk | Shivamogga (Karnataka), Sep 18 (IANS) The BJP staged a protest in Shikaripura town in Shivamogga district against what it alleged were the Karnataka governments anti-farmer policies. BJP State President, B.Y. Vijayendra, accused the government of failing to understand and address the problems faced by farmers in the state. Addressing the protest, Vijayendra claimed the agitation was aimed at warning the government about the hardships faced by farmers and demanding that it take steps to resolve their problems. Referring to the problems faced by farmers living along forest fringes in the context of the Gadgil and Kasturirangan committee reports, Vijayendra said it could not be accepted that these committees were constituted only on the basis of orders from the High Court or Supreme Court of any state. He said the Gadgil and Kasturirangan committees were constituted during the tenure of the previous Congress-led UPA government. As a result of the impact of these reports, farmers living in forest-fringe areas are now forced to come onto the streets and protest, he alleged. Mr. Madhu Bangarappa (Minister for Education and Literacy), if you want to launch a protest, you must first understand your responsibility as a minister of the state government, Vijayendra said. Vijayendra alleged that the government had failed to seriously address irrigation problems faced by farmers in Shikaripura and surrounding areas. The Chief Minister does not even have the time to understand the problems of farmers. The government, which should respond to their hardships and find solutions, is ignoring their problems, Vijayendra alleged. He also questioned the governments achievements in addressing the basic needs of poor and vulnerable sections of society. Referring to the period since the Congress came to power, Vijayendra said the government had spoken extensively about its guarantee schemes but questioned what it had achieved in providing basic assistance to poor people. In the last three-and-a-half years, the government has not been able to provide a house to a single poor person. It has not been able to provide a single Ganga Kalyana scheme. The government is also not coming forward to provide pensions to eligible persons with disabilities, Vijayendra alleged. He criticised the government for allegedly focusing on political announcements instead of addressing the real problems faced by people. Vijayendra praised the discipline and fighting spirit displayed by BJP workers and farmers at the protest. For the last three-and-a-half hours, not a single worker has got up from their chair. This is the quality of the soil of Shikaripura; this is the spirit of struggle, he said. He said the people of Shikaripura and BJP workers had the strength to continue fighting for farmers and the common people. It can be noted that Vijayendra represents Shikaripura Assembly segment. Earlier, the constituency was represented by his father, former chief minister B.S. Yediyurappa. Vijayendra expressed confidence that a BJP-led NDA government would come to power in Karnataka in the future. He recalled the development undertaken in Shikaripura during the tenure of former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa and said the people had witnessed that period of development. Nobody can stop us from bringing back good days when development works will once again be carried out in Shivamogga district and Shikaripura in the same manner, he said.

Iriyapuram residents in Erode district block road demanding regular water supply

'No good can come from digging past': Ex-Babri Masjid litigant on Swara Bhaskar's Ram Janmabhoomi remark

Digital Desk | Ayodhya, Sep 18 (IANS) Reacting to actress Swara Bhaskar's controversial statement on the Ram temple case verdict, former Babri Masjid-Ram Janmabhoomi litigant Iqbal Ansari said on Friday that the court judgment on the Ram temple was announced by the Supreme Court, and people across the country respected the decision given by the apex court. He also added that there were no communal disharmony anywhere in the country following the verdict. Ansari said, The Ram Temple verdict was a court decision, and people across the country respected it. Not even a leaf was disturbed anywhere in the country. He added that digging the past can do no good to the country. Speaking to IANS, Ansari said that speaking on the matter should be avoided because the court judgment has already come. If anyone says anything regarding the Ram Temple verdict, it should be avoided, because people across the country had respected the decision of the court, he added. The decision has come, Ram Mandir has been built, prayers and rituals have been completed, people flock to the temple with complete devotion. Swara Bhaskar should avoid speaking on the matter, because all the people of the country have accepted the verdict respectfully, Ansari said. The former Babri Masjid-Ram Janmabhoomi litigant said, When all the people are coming and worshipping the deity, when there is no bias or discrimination Raising an issue of the past can bring no good, because we are residents of Ayodhya. We want Hindus and Muslims of the region to live in peace together with communal harmony. Lord Ram was born there. Hindus should be able to worship the deity. According to reports, actor Swara Bhaskar courted controversy after she said in a recent interview that the 2019 Supreme Court verdict on Ram Janmabhoomi gave her a lot of pain and that she was really upset about it because she felt it was very unfair. Adding that she personally texted all the Muslim people in her contact list and sought their forgiveness. She added that she even messaged major stars like Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan. She went on to say in the interview that she felt ashamed and that she did not agree to the Supreme Court's verdict.

Foreigners Tribunal Member Arrested for Extortion in Assam

A member of the Foreigners Tribunal in Assams Udalguri has been arrested for allegedly demanding a bribe for bail facilitation. Foreigners Tribunal Member Arrested for Extortion in Assam

Asian Games: North Korea's national anthem played before South Korea's hockey match, complaint lodged

Digital Desk | Nagoya, Sep 18 (IANS) In a bizarre mix-up, the national anthem of North Korea was played before the hockey match of South Korea's men's team against Bangladesh at the Asian Games 2026 on Friday. The incident left the South Korean players baffled, with some players running their hands through their hair over the mishap ahead of their game at the Gifu Prefectural Green Stadium in Gifu, which remains nearly 30 kilometres from Nagoya. The organisers corrected the mistake and played South Korea's anthem after playing Bangladesh's national anthem. According to Yonhap, the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee stated that it lodged an official complaint with the organising committee over the anthem mix-up, demanding an official apology and prevention of a recurrence. It added that the match was delayed and the referee ordered players to shake hands and get ready to play even before the anthem ended. Korea defeated Bangladesh 5-0 in the pool game with Sim Jae-won, Lee Gang-san, Oh Se-yong, Bae Soung-min and Yang Ji-hun scoring one goal each. The 2023 Asiad bronze winners made light work of Bangladesh but were not taking their opponents lightly. We saw Bangladesh as a dark horse. We wanted to lock things down defensively in the first quarter, South Korea head coach Min Tae-seok said as quoted by Yonhap. And then we wanted to be more aggressive in the second quarter. And our players scored those goals after making their adjustments to the venue. Min also spoke on the anthem mishap. I can't believe something like this happened at an international competition, Min said. South Korea and Bangladesh are placed in Pool A along with four other teams, which also include defending gold medallists India, hosts and 2023 silver winners Japan, Sri Lanka and Indonesia. Meanwhile, South Korea women also won their opener against Chinese Taipei 3-1 in Pool A later.

White Knight Corps commander reviews ongoing counter-terrorism operations in J-Ks Udhampur

Jammu, Sep 18: General Officer Commanding (GOC) White Knight Corps Lieutenant General P K Mishra on Friday reviewed the ongoing counter-terrorism operations in Brattal area of Udhampur district, officials said. They said the Army commander visited the general area of Brattal, Udhampur and reviewed the evolving security environment, operational dynamics and measures to sustain relentless operational tempo, ensuring a swift, coordinated and decisive response to emerging threats. During his visit, the GOC commended the successful neutralisation of two terrorists, and lauded the troops of White Knight Corps for their resolute action, high morale and unwavering commitment. He was accompanied by GOC Delta Force. The visit comes a day after two Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Muhammad militants were killed and an alleged over-ground worker was detained in a remote high-altitude area of Udhampur district. The joint operation was launched by the Army, Police and CRPF in the dense Brattal Sohan and Khubban forests of Majalta bordering Kathua district.

Assam: Foreigners tribunal member arrested for extortion

Digital Desk | Guwahati, Sep 18 (IANS) A member of a Foreigners Tribunal in Assams Udalguri district has been arrested for allegedly demanding Rs 15,000 from a person in connection with granting bail in a case, police said on Friday. The accused, identified as Bhupen Chandra Pegu, was arrested following an investigation into a complaint lodged at Mazbat Police Station in the district. According to a police statement, an FIR was registered on August 29 after a complaint alleged that Pegu had sought Rs 15,000 in connection with bail proceedings before the Foreigners Tribunal. Police have booked the accused under Section 308(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which deals with extortion. Authorities have not disclosed the identity of the complainant or provided details about the tribunal case in which the alleged demand was made. The arrest follows an investigation into allegations of financial misconduct involving an official associated with the quasi-judicial system that deals with citizenship-related proceedings in Assam. Foreigners Tribunals were established to examine cases involving individuals suspected of being foreigners under the applicable legal framework. These bodies determine whether a person referred to them is an Indian citizen or a foreigner, based on evidence and legal provisions governing the proceedings. The alleged demand for money in connection with bail has raised concerns about the integrity of proceedings involving individuals whose citizenship status is under scrutiny. However, the allegations against Pegu remain subject to investigation and legal proceedings. Police have not released further information regarding the evidence collected during the investigation or whether additional individuals are being questioned in connection with the case. The case comes amid continued scrutiny of administrative and legal processes related to citizenship determination in Assam, where Foreigners Tribunals play a significant role in adjudicating disputes. Further details regarding the investigation and court proceedings are awaited.

Uri National Highway to Remain Closed on September 20

SRINAGAR: The Uri National Highway will remain temporarily closed to vehicular traffic on 20 September 2026 to facilitate hill-cutting work, according to an order issued by the Sub Divisional Magistrate, Uri. The permission for the closure was granted following a request from the Officer Commanding, 53 RCC (GREF), the order stated. The SDM has advised []

Had decided to leave politics after 2024 elections, says Shehzad Poonawalla on BJP exit

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 18 (IANS) Political analyst and former BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla on Friday shed light his decision to resign from the party, saying that he had been considering a transition to the private sector after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Poonawalla said he had always intended to return to the private sector after the 2024 elections, but decided to continue working with the BJP for some more time due to the political situation following the polls. Speaking to IANS, Poonawalla said: After the 2024 elections, it was in my mind to transition to the private sector. The reason behind this was that when I joined politics in 2021 and became the national spokesperson of the BJP, I had previously been in the media. Before that, I drew a regular salary. I only knew media work and articulation. But when I joined politics and dedicated myself to it 24/7, I calculated how much savings I had and how many years I would be able to sustain working like this. When I realised that remaining active in a political party would only be feasible until the end of 2024, I had already made up my mind, he said. He further said that he wanted to re-enter the private sector. If you look at my earlier videos and statements, my intention had always been to leave politics after the 2024 elections and re-enter the private sector from where I had come, Poonawalla added. However, he said the BJPs tally of 240 seats in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and the political developments that followed made him reconsider his decision. Given the post-2024 election situation, where the tally stood at 240, I felt that leaving at that critical juncture would not be right. There were also crucial state elections approaching, and I wanted to contribute as much as I could. Finally, after the Bengal elections, I decided that the time had come to step into the private sector, he said. Poonawalla also said that his objective in politics had never been to seek an elected position. Secondly, my goal has never been to become an MP or an MLA. I do not work for positions; I work for a mission and a vision. Even today, I continue to work for the mission and vision of the BJP. I do not chase titles or posts; I believe in building stature, he said. On the row over the Umar Khalid documentary, Poonawalla criticised those who, according to him, portray Khalid as a hero while questioning the credentials of other prominent Indians. They never see a hero or a Nelson Mandela in Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, nor in Ustad Bismillah Khan. They only see one in Umar Khalid. And those shedding tears for Umar Khalid -- when the court gave a clean chit to Sadhvi Pragya, they still label her a terrorist simply because she wears saffron. Yet someone whom the courts refuse to release is still portrayed by them as a martyr and innocent, he said. He quipped that the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, can become PM, but of Pakistan. Rahul Gandhi can become Prime Minister but perhaps of Pakistan. If he prefers, of Italy, or whichever country he frequently visits, like Bangkok -- if he wishes to take citizenship there, he could become Prime Minister there, since he spends most of his time abroad anyway. In India, he only visits briefly between his vacations. He could certainly become Prime Minister of those countries, but here, in 2029, Narendra Modi will be re-elected Prime Minister with an even bigger margin. In 2034, if he decides to contest, he will become Prime Minister in 2034 as well. In 2027, Yogi Adityanath will return with an even greater margin than the BJP received in 2017, he claimed. On actor Swara Bhaskers remarks regarding the Ram Janmabhoomi verdict, Poonawalla criticised her views and said the Supreme Court verdict should be respected. Swara Bhasker, please stop now! Because this anti-Hindu stance, anti-national rhetoric and constant belittling of Hindus must end. The verdict on the Ram Mandir came through the Supreme Court -- and these people claim to champion saving the Constitution. Do Rahul Gandhi and Swara Bhasker believe that the wisdom of the Supreme Court was flawed? he said. Recently, Swara Bhasker has revealed that when the Ram Janmabhoomi verdict was announced, she reached out to superstars Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Aamir Khan to express her solidarity. She said she felt ashamed and, as such, reached out to all the Muslims she knew to tell them that she didnt agree with the verdict.

Asian Games: Indian men's soft tennis team bows out in QFs

Digital Desk | Nagoya, Sep 18 (IANS) Indian mens soft tennis team, comprising Jay Meena, Yogesh Choudhary, Aryan Thakur, Aniket Patel and Om Yadav, concluded its Asian Games 2026 campaign with a 02 defeat against Indonesia in the quarterfinals. Jay and Yogesh lost the first men's doubles tie to Tio Hutauruk and Fernendo Sanger 25, before Aryan Thakur lost to Bagus Pradewa 34. With this loss, Indias mens team campaign come to an end at the Asian Games 2026. However, the competition continues for the Indian athletes, with Jay and Aryan set to compete in the mens Singles on September 22. Jay will also feature in the Mixed Doubles on September 21. Indian Men began their campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Laos before suffering a 0-3 defeat to group toppers Chinese Taipei. Needing a win in their final group encounter to secure a knockout berth, India responded strongly and defeated Mongolia 3-0 to progress to the last eight with four points from three ties. India made a confident start against Laos as Jay and Yogesh clinched the opening doubles match 5-0. Aryan then registered a comfortable 4-0 victory in the singles contest before Aniket and Om completed the clean sweep with another dominant doubles win. Chinese Taipei, however, proved a tougher challenge. Meena and Choudhary lost the first doubles match 0-5, while Thakur went down 1-4 in the singles tie. Patel and Yadav also suffered defeat in the second doubles match as India lost the contest 0-3. With a quarter-final place at stake, the Indian players bounced back in style against Mongolia, sealing a comprehensive 3-0 win to finish behind Chinese Taipei in the group standings. Aniket and Om won the opening doubles match against Mongolia by 5-0, and Meena then registered a comfortable 4-0 victory in singles before Thakur and Choudhary completed the clean sweep with another dominant doubles win. Indias campaign is being led by Jay , one of the countrys most accomplished soft tennis players in recent years. The Madhya Pradesh athlete represented India at the 2018 Asian Games and won the mens singles gold medal at the 2022 National Games in Gujarat. Meena also etched his name in history in 2024 when, alongside Aadhya Tiwari, he secured Indias first-ever medal at the World Soft Tennis Championships by winning bronze in mixed doubles. He followed it up by becoming national champion in 2025 and later claimed bronze in mens singles at the Asian Soft Tennis Championships, becoming the first Indian to win a medal at the continental event.

Residents of Sheikhpura Hold Officials Hostage Amid Flood Protests

In Sheikhpura, Bihar, residents protested against flooding, holding officials hostage and demanding the area be declared disaster-stricken. Residents of Sheikhpura Hold Officials Hostage Amid Flood Protests

No Sense Of Discrimination: Delhi Board Director On Hosting India-Afghanistan T20I Series

As India concluded the Afghanistan T20I series with a commanding 3-0 win, Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) Director Shyam Sunder said that hosting the India-Afghanistan T20I at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi was a great experience.

Asian Games 2026: India's Men's Soft Tennis Team Advances To Quarterfinals

The Indian team of Jay Meena, Yogesh Choudhary, Aryan Thakur, Aniket Patel and Om Yadav began their campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Laos before suffering a 0-3 defeat against Chinese Taipei

No political angle in removal of Siddaramaiah statue: Karnataka Minister Ajay Singh

Digital Desk | Mangaluru (Karnataka), Sept 18 (IANS) Minister for Minor Irrigation, Ajay Singh, on Friday said the removal of a nine-foot statue of former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in Kalaburagi was carried out as the statue had been installed without the required permission, and there was no political angle to the development. It can be noted that another statue of Siddaramaiah installed at the same location around three years ago had been removed as well by the authorities at that time. Minister Ajay Singh hails from Kalaburagi district and he is the son of former chief minister N. Dharam Singh. Speaking to reporters, Ajay Singh said, There are rules for installing any statue. The Siddaramaiah statue was removed for this reason. There is no connection between Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumars visit to Kalaburagi and the removal of the statue. He said Shivakumar had repeatedly maintained that Siddaramaiah was their leader and dismissed speculation linking the statue's removal to the Chief Minister's visit. Ajay Singh also said neither Siddaramaiah nor Shivakumar knew about the installation of the statue. There is no confusion regarding this matter. The statue was installed without permission and was removed as per the rules, he said. It can be noted that a nine-foot statue of Siddaramaiah was installed overnight at High Court Circle in Kalaburagi by his supporters. The Kalaburagi City Corporation subsequently removed the statue on Thursday amid tight police security after officials found that the required permission had not been obtained from the district administration or the city corporation. According to officials, around eight to 10 people, including members of the Kuruba community, were involved in installing the statue. The group had reportedly been demanding that High Court Circle be named after Siddaramaiah. The same group had reportedly installed a Siddaramaiah statue at the location around three years ago. Authorities had removed it at that time as well. The latest installation took place along the route taken by Shivakumar during his visit to Kalaburagi and his onward journey to the Ganagapura temple, leading to speculation over the timing of the move. However, officials maintained that the statue was removed solely because it had been installed without the necessary permission. Police were deployed at the spot during the removal to prevent any law-and-order issues.

Asian Games cricket: India storm into Asian Games semis after 8-wicket win over Japan

Defending champions India advanced to the Asian Games women's cricket semifinals. They secured a commanding eight-wicket victory over an inexperienced Japan side. Indian spinners Charani and Shafali Verma were instrumental in restricting Japan to 57 runs. Shafali Verma then led the chase with an unbeaten 40 runs off fifteen balls. India will now face Bangladesh in their semifinal match on September 20.

Punjab Police ASI shot dead by two motorcycle-borne men during night patrol in Amritsar

In a shocking incident, an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) was shot dead while on patrol in Punjab's Amritsar in the early hours of Thursday. The incident took place at around 2:30 am near Dana Mandi in...

Strengthening patient safety critical in addressing burden of NCDs: Govt official

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 18 (IANS) Patient safety cannot be the responsibility of a single programme or department and needs to be embedded across the health system, particularly in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and long-term management of noncommunicable diseases, a senior government official has said. Aradhana Patnaik, Additional Secretary and Mission Director (NHM), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, reiterated the governments commitment to strengthening patient safety, improving quality of care and building safer health systems across the country. The ministry, commemorated the World Patient Safety Day 2026 with the theme Safe Care for Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs). Addressing the gathering, Patnaik said that nearly 63 per cent of all deaths in India are attributed to NCDs, making patient safety an important component of healthcare delivery. Referring to recent achievements in public healthcare, she highlighted that 96 per cent of immunisations and 90.6 per cent of institutional deliveries, as reported under NFHS-6, are being conducted through public health facilities. She stressed the need to further strengthen quality and safety practices within healthcare institutions, particularly in patient referrals and continuity of care, to ensure timely access to appropriate services and improved health outcomes, according to an official statement on Friday. Patnaik also emphasised the need for a clear roadmap and action plan to achieve 100 per cent NQAS certification of Ayushman Aarogya MandirSub Health Centres (AAM-SHCs) by March 2027, followed by certification of Ayushman Aarogya MandirPrimary Health Centres (AAM-PHCs). She underscored that a structured and time-bound approach to quality assurance would be critical for institutionalising a culture of patient safety across all levels of care. India has also been strengthening the institutional framework for quality and patient safety through initiatives such as the National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) and the National Patient Safety Implementation Framework. The observance of World Patient Safety Day 2026 provided an important platform for bringing together stakeholders, sharing experiences and best practices, and reinforcing a culture of patient safety across all levels of healthcare delivery.

Bihar Army soldier dies of burn injuries, villagers protest demanding action

The protesters also raised questions over the police handling of the case

Shabana Azmi thanks Vidya Balan for expressive gift ahead of 75th birthday, says it brought a big smile to her face

Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 18 (IANS) Veteran actress Shabana Azmi will soon be turning 75 on the 18th of September. The actress celebrated the occasion a day prior to her actual birthday, surrounded by friends and colleagues from the film industry. Ahead of her special day, the actress received an unusual and expressive birthday tribute from actress Vidya Balan and producer husband Siddharth Roy Kapur, which left her smiling. Shabana took to her social media account to share a glimpse of the special birthday gesture, which was a cake featuring an artistic representation of her alongside the words Batwarapan! A talent that is borderless! EST. 1950 STILL GOING STRONG/EST. Thanking Vidya and Siddharth for the thoughtful gesture, Shabana wrote: Thank you so much #Siddharth Roy Kapur and #Vidya Balan for this innovative message. It brought a big smile to my face. The actress also shared a glimpse of her birthday celebrations, giving fans a peek into the intimate gathering attended by many of her industry friends. In another post, Shabana shared a group picture featuring her actress friends and simply captioned it, Pretty women. The celebrations saw many familiar faces from the film fraternity come together, including Divya Dutta, Tanvi Azmi, Dia Mirza, Richa Chadha, Vidya Balan and Shahana Goswami, among others. The gathering was seen turning into a lively celebration as the veteran actress marked the milestone with friends. Filmmaker-producer Boney Kapoor was also among those who attended the celebrations. In a glimpse from the gathering, he and Shabana were seen enjoying pani puri together. Shabana was also seen spending time with her childhood friends, with the group joining in for a rendition of the iconic song Yeh Dosti Hum Nahin Todenge from the 1975 cult classic Sholay. For the uninitiated, born on September 18, 1950, Shabana Azmi is the daughter of celebrated poet and lyricist Kaifi Azmi and theatre actress Shaukat Kaifi. She made her film debut with Shyam Benegal's Ankur in 1974. The film became a landmark in her career. Over the decades, Azmi established herself as one of Indian cinema's most acclaimed performers, balancing parallel cinema alongside mainstream films. Her notable works include Nishant, Junoon, Arth, Khandhar, Paar, Mandi, Masoom, Shatranj Ke Khilari, Sparsh, Amar Akbar Anthony, Fakira, Godmother and Fire, among several others.

Delhi-NCR likely to receive light to moderate rain; AQI remains in 'satisfactory' category

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 18 (IANS) Rain is expected in Delhi-NCR on Friday, with the Meteorological Department forecasting partly cloudy skies and the possibility of light to moderate showers. As the monsoon begins to withdraw, only minimal rain clouds are forming over the region. However, the weather department has not issued any warning of heavy rainfall or thunderstorms. The daytime temperature is expected to remain between 33 degrees Celsius and 35 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature is likely to settle between 23 degrees Celsius and 25 degrees Celsius. Humidity is also expected to remain noticeable during the day. Over the next 24 hours, the weather is likely to remain partly cloudy, with occasional clear spells. With the monsoon weakening, weather conditions in Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and the NCR continue to fluctuate. Several areas experienced heavy rain accompanied by strong winds on Thursday. However, the Meteorological Department has forecast moderate rain and partly cloudy skies for Friday. Morning temperatures are expected to remain between 25 degrees Celsius and 27 degrees Celsius, while the mercury could rise above 33 degrees Celsius as the day progresses. Humidity is likely to remain between 60 per cent and 80 per cent, adding to the discomfort. The sky is expected to remain generally clear with intermittent cloud cover. Light rain or drizzle may occur in some areas, with the probability of rainfall estimated at 5 to 12 per cent. No warning of storms or thunderstorms has been issued. According to the weather department's forecast, conditions are likely to remain largely clear over the next 24 hours, although isolated rainfall cannot be ruled out. While Delhi and surrounding areas received rain on Thursday, the hilly regions also witnessed snowfall, providing relief to tourists. Weather conditions in the hills are also expected to change on Friday. As the monsoon weakens across North India, rainfall activity is likely to remain negligible in the coming days. Meanwhile, Delhi-NCR's air quality remained in the 'satisfactory' category. The Air Quality Index (AQI) readings included CRRI Mathura Road (104), Burari Crossing (95), North Campus (121), Pusa (83), Aya Nagar (62), Shadipur (66), NSIT Dwarka (47), ITO (68), DTU (62), Sirifort (127), Mandir Marg (89), R.K. Puram (99), Ashok Vihar (70), Dwarka Sector 8 (88), and Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium (117).

Glenn Maxwells 82 Keeps Belfast Wolves ETPL Qualification Hopes Alive

Belfast Wolves kept their qualification hopes alive with a nine-run DLS victory over Edinburgh Castle Rockers in Match 29 of the ETPL at Malahide. Glenn Maxwells unbeaten 82 powered Belfast to 190 for four, before the Wolves restricted Edinburgh to 137 for six in their revised 15-over chase. With Amsterdam Flames and now Edinburgh Castle Rockers already qualified, Belfast must now wait on Rotterdam Dockers result: a Rotterdam win would send the Dockers through, while a defeat would see Belfast claim the remaining place. Belfasts innings was built around a commanding display from their captain. Maxwell struck an unbeaten 82 from just 40 deliveries, hitting eight fours and five sixes to provide the innings defining contribution. His aggressive approach helped the Wolves maintain a strong scoring rate and finish with 190 on the board. Harry Manenti contributed 34 from 33 balls, while Ben Tucker added 17 from 15. David Miller provided the much needed late acceleration with 38 from 19 deliveries, striking seven fours as Belfast pushed towards the 200 mark. Mark Chapman had retired hurt after making 12 from 11 balls. Edinburghs bowlers shared the wickets, with Tom Curran taking two. Trent Boult and Jack Jarvis claimed one apiece, but Belfasts late scoring ensured the Rockers faced a challenging chase. The revised target for Edinburgh after the 11th over was 147 from 15 overs. Their innings began with early setbacks, as Ross Adair and JJ Smuts fell on low scores. Andries Gous made 34 from 29 balls, while Brandon McMullen and Laurie Evans contributed 13 and 15 respectively, but Edinburgh struggled to keep pace with the required rate. Mitchell Santner added 23 from 13 deliveries to keep the chase moving, and Tom Curran provided a late burst of power. Curran smashed an unbeaten 30 from just seven balls, including four sixes and a four, while Gareth Delany finished unbeaten on five from two deliveries. Their late hitting lifted Edinburgh to 137 for six, nine runs short of the DLS target. But the score was more than enough for Edinburgh to clear the minimum runs required to qualify in the top 3 via NRR. Edinburgh and Amsterdam have claimed their spots and now we wait for the third team. Matthew Humphreys played a key role in Belfasts defence, taking two wickets for just nine runs from three overs, including a maiden. Chris Jordan also claimed two wickets, while Mark Adair and Maxwell took one each. The victory keeps Belfast in contention, but their fate is no longer in their own hands. Amsterdam Flames have already qualified, leaving the final spot to be decided by Rotterdams remaining result. If Rotterdam win, they qualify and reach the final directly and Belfast are eliminated. If Rotterdam lose, Belfast advance and Rotterdam miss out. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories For Belfast, Maxwells unbeaten 82 and a disciplined bowling effort secured a vital win. Now, the Wolves must wait for Rotterdams result to discover whether their campaign continues.

Army soldier dies after alleged petrol attack in Bihar; locals protest demanding action

Army soldier dies after alleged petrol attack in Bihar; locals protest demanding action Patna: Army soldier Shatrudhan Yadav, a resident of Sahuka village under Ramgarh police station in Kaimur district of Bihar, died on Wednesday evening while undergoing treatment for severe burn injuries sustained in an alleged attack 8 days earlier. Following his death, a [] The post Army soldier dies after alleged petrol attack in Bihar; locals protest demanding action appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

35 of 52 J&K corruption FIRs are bribe-trap cases in 2026

The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has registered 52 corruption-related FIRs across the Union Territory up to September 2026, 35 of which involve trap operations in alleged cases of demanding and accepting bribes. The ACB's 2026 case register shows that trap cases account for 67.3 per cent of the total FIRs registered so far this year. In other words, roughly two out of every three corruption cases recorded by the Bureau have involved allegations of direct bribery. The 52 cases have been registered in different districts and cover allegations ranging from bribery and disproportionate assets to illegal mutations, abuse of official position, financial irregularities, illegal appointments and alleged encroachment. Jammu Province accounts for 31 cases, including 20 trap cases, while Kashmir Province has 21 cases, of which 15 are trap cases. Thus, trap cases constitute about 65 per cent of the cases in Jammu and more than 71 per cent in Kashmir. The individual cases show that allegations of bribery cut across several departments. Revenue officials, particularly patwaris, appear repeatedly in the ACB's trap cases, with allegations concerning payments for revenue extracts, mutations and other official work. Police personnel, junior engineers, municipal officials, forest employees, treasury staff and other government functionaries also figure in the cases registered during the year. In Jammu Province, Rajouri has six cases listed in the ACB register and all six are trap cases. Udhampur has seven cases, including six traps. The ACB Jammu police station has five cases, four of them trap cases, while the ACB Central police station has 11 cases, including four traps. Doda has two cases, neither classified as a trap. In Kashmir Province, Srinagar accounts for 13 cases, including nine trap cases. Anantnag has six cases, five of them traps, while Baramulla has two cases, including one trap case. The alleged bribe amounts recorded in the cases range from Rs 2,000 to Rs 1 lakh. The ACB register includes allegations involving Rs 5,000, Rs 8,000, Rs 10,000, Rs 12,000, Rs 15,000, Rs 20,000, Rs 30,000, Rs 40,000 and Rs 70,000, besides the Rs 1 lakh case. The Rs 1 lakh case was registered by ACB Anantnag on May 21 against a Ziladar and a Patwari of the Irrigation Division, Anantnag. According to the case record, the two were booked in connection with an allegation of demanding and accepting the amount. Another case involved an alleged Rs 70,000 bribe, with the ACB registering a trap case against a Patwari of Patwar Halqa Gole and an alleged associate. The cases have continued to be registered during September. The ACB case register includes a September 1 trap case in Srinagar involving an alleged Rs 15,000 bribe, a September 7 case involving an alleged Rs 11,000 bribe and a September 9 Rajouri case involving an alleged Rs 20,000 bribe. The pattern is notable when compared with the ACB's annual figures for previous years. During the whole of 2025, the Bureau registered 78 corruption-related cases, including 36 trap cases, 18 disproportionate-assets cases, 15 cases involving alleged abuse of official position, eight cases relating to fraudulent alienation of custodian land and one case concerning illegal appointments. The 35 trap cases registered up to September 2026 are therefore already just one short of the 36 trap cases recorded during the whole of 2025. The comparison is between a part-year figure and a full-year figure, however, and the 2026 figure may change before the year ends. The 2026 cases also indicate that the ACB's investigations extend beyond direct bribery. The case register includes allegations of disproportionate assets, illegal mutations of land, abuse of official position, financial irregularities in development works, illegal appointments and alleged encroachment. In Jammu Province, the concentration of trap cases is particularly visible in Rajouri and Udhampur. All six cases listed under Rajouri are trap cases, while six of the seven cases registered by ACB Udhampur are traps. In Kashmir, nine of Srinagar's 13 cases and five of Anantnag's six cases are classified as traps. The alleged bribe amounts also indicate that the cases concern both routine government services and larger transactions. Several allegations involve sums of Rs 5,000 or Rs 10,000, while others involve Rs 20,000, Rs 40,000, Rs 70,000 and Rs 1 lakh. A trap case generally begins with a complaint alleging that a public servant has demanded a bribe. After verification, the ACB conducts a trap operation to establish the alleged demand or acceptance of illegal gratification. The operation may result in the arrest of the accused and subsequent investigation.

iPhone buying guide 2026: Which iPhone should you buy?

Macworld Apple now has a wider iPhone range than ever, making it harder to decide which model is right for you. Your choice will largely come down to price, camera capabilities, display, performance, battery life, size and storage. You may also be wondering which screen size suits you, how much storage you need, or whether to save money with an older model rather than buy the latest iPhone. Youll also want to consider which model offers the best balance of features and value. In this guide, we explain the differences between every iPhone currently available from Apple, paying particular attention to prices, cameras, displays, performance, battery life, durability and design. By the end, you should have a much clearer idea of which iPhone best meets your needs. If you simply want to know which models we recommend, you can also read our full iPhone reviews, linked below, and use our iPhone comparison chart to compare the latest models with the other iPhones Apple sells. Which iPhone should you buy? Quick guide If you already know what matters most to you, this quick guide will point you toward the iPhone that best fits your priorities. If you want Buy Best all rounder iPhone 17 Best camera iPhone 18 Pro Best battery life iPhone 18 Pro Max Biggest screen iPhone Duo Best value iPhone 17e Thinnest/lightest iPhone Air Cheapest Refurbished/discounted older iPhone Current iPhone lineup and prices Heres how Apples current iPhone lineup compares on price and the key specifications that are most likely to influence your buying decision. iPhone 17e iPhone 16 iPhone 17 iPhone Air iPhone 18 Pro iPhone 18 Pro Max iPhone Duo Starting price $699/699 $799/799 $899/899 $1,099/1,099 $1,199/1,199 $1,299/1,299 $1,999/1,999 Screen size 6.1 6.1 6.3 6.5 6.3 6.9 7.6 Storage 256/512GB 128GB 256/512GB 256/512GB/1TB 256/512GB/1TB/2TB 256/512GB/1TB/2TB 256/512GB/1TB/2TB Colors White, Black, Pink Ultramarine, Teal, Pink, White, Black Lavender, Sage, Mist Blue, White, Black Sky Blue, Light Gold, Cloud White, Space Black Burgundy, Glacier, Silver, Black Burgundy, Glacier, Silver, Black Star White, Night Sky Display OLED with HDR (25321170-pixel at 460 ppi) OLED with HDR (25561179-pixels at 460 ppi) 2000 nits peak brightness (outdoor), 1 nit minimum brightness OLED with HDR (26221206-pixel at 460 ppi), ProMotion 120Hz 3000 nits peak brightness (outdoor), 1 nit minimum brightness, Always On OLED with HDR (27361206-pixel at 460 ppi), ProMotion 120Hz 3000 nits peak brightness (outdoor), 1 nit minimum brightness, Always On OLED with HDR (26221206-pixel at 460 ppi), ProMotion 120Hz 3000 nits peak brightness (outdoor), 1 nit minimum brightness, Always On OLED with HDR (28681320-pixels at 460 ppi), ProMotion, 120Hz 3000 nits peak brightness (outdoor), 1 nit minimum brightness, Always On OLED with HDR (Inn er display : 18782670-pixels at 430 ppi), Outer display : 13982034-pixels at 460 ppi), ProMotion, 120Hz 3000 nits peak brightness (outdoor), 1 nit minimum brightness, Always On Processor A18 (4-core GPU) A18 (5-core GPU) A19 (5-core GPU) A19 Pro (5-core GPU) A20 Pro (7-core GPU) A20 Pro (7-core GPU) A20 Pro (7-core GPU) Battery capacity 4,005mAh, 26 hours video playback 3,692mAh, 22 hours video playback 3,561mAh, 30 hours video playback 3,149mAh, 27 hours video playback 4,056mAh, 36 hours video playback 5,391mAh, 45 hours video playback 4,700mAh, 31 hours video playback ( inner display ) 44 hours video playback ( outer display ) Wireless features 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, 2nd-gen Ultra Wideband, Thread 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, NFC, 2nd-gen Ultra Wideband, Thread 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, NFC, 2nd-gen Ultra Wideband, Thread 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, NFC, 2nd-gen Ultra Wideband, Thread 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, NFC, 2nd-gen Ultra Wideband, Thread 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, NFC, 2nd-gen Ultra Wideband, Thread MagSafe Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes All the iPhones currently sold by Apple How to choose an iPhone To help you narrow down the right iPhone model, well look at the key questions that matter most when choosing an iPhone, including which has the best camera, battery life, display and performance, how much storage you need, and which model offers the best value. Which iPhone has the best camera? Apple The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max have the best camera systems of any current iPhone. Both use the same triple-48MP rear camera setup, so there is no photographic advantage to choosing the larger Pro Max unless you also want its bigger display and longer battery life. The headline upgrade is the 48MP Fusion Main camera with variable aperture, a first for the iPhone. You can switch between /1.48, /1.8, /2.8 and /4.0, giving you more direct control over depth of field and low-light shooting. The Pro models also add a 48MP Ultra Wide and 48MP Telephoto camera, with 4x native telephoto and an 8x optical-quality zoom option. Apple also provides manual controls for aperture, shutter speed, white balance and histogram viewing, plus ProRAW, ProRes RAW and Apple Log 2 support. The iPhone 17 remains an excellent camera phone for most people. It has a 48MP Main camera and 48MP Ultra Wide camera, plus a 12MP optical-quality 2x option cropped from the Main sensor. It also gains the 18MP Center Stage front camera, which can automatically reframe shots and supports Dual Capture. What you miss compared with the Pro models is the dedicated Telephoto lens, longer zoom range and more advanced pro photo and video controls. The iPhone Duo also has two 48MP rear cameras, with Main and Ultra Wide lenses plus a 2x optical-quality crop from the Main sensor. Its folding design introduces some unusual camera features, including Duo Preview and Smart Take, but it lacks the dedicated Telephoto and variable-aperture Main camera found on the Pro models. The iPhone Air and iPhone 17e are the least versatile current models, because each has only a single 48MP rear camera. Both can produce a 12MP optical-quality 2x view from the Main sensor, but neither has an Ultra Wide camera. The Air does at least get the newer 18MP Center Stage front camera, while the 17e retains a 12MP TrueDepth camera. The older iPhone 16 sits somewhere in between, with a 48MP Main camera and 12MP Ultra Wide, plus the same 2x optical-quality crop from the Main sensor. It is still a capable camera phone, but the iPhone 17 improves the Ultra Wide to 48MP and upgrades the front camera. Our recommendation : If photography and video are your priority, buy the iPhone 18 Pro . It gives you exactly the same camera system as the Pro Max for less money and in a more manageable size. We recommend: Apple iPhone 18 Pro Price When Reviewed: $1,199 Best Prices Today: $1199 at Apple iPhone camera specifications compared Heres how the current iPhone cameras compare. The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max share the same triple-camera system, including the variable-aperture Main camera and 4x/8x Telephoto setup, while the iPhone 17 steps down to dual 48MP Main and Ultra Wide cameras. The iPhone Air and 17e are less versatile, each using a single 48MP rear camera. Most newer models also feature Apples 18MP Center Stage front camera with automatic reframing and Dual Capture, while the iPhone 17e retains a 12MP TrueDepth camera and the iPhone Duo uses separate outer and inner front cameras. iPhone Main camera Ultra Wide Telephoto / zoom Front camera iPhone 18 Pro 48MP Fusion Main, 24mm, variable /1.48/4.0 48MP, 13mm, /2.2, 120 48MP 4x, 100mm, /2.8; 12MP optical-quality 8x, 200mm; up to 40x digital 18MP Center Stage, /1.9 iPhone 18 Pro Max 48MP Fusion Main, 24mm, variable /1.48/4.0 48MP, 13mm, /2.2, 120 48MP 4x, 100mm, /2.8; 12MP optical-quality 8x, 200mm; up to 40x digital 18MP Center Stage, /1.9 iPhone Duo 48MP Fusion Main, 26mm, /1.6 48MP, 13mm, /2.2, 120 No dedicated Telephoto; 12MP optical-quality 2x; up to 10x digital 12MP Center Stage outer camera, /2.2; under-display inner camera, /1.8 iPhone 17 48MP Fusion Main, 26mm, /1.6 48MP, 13mm, /2.2, 120 No dedicated Telephoto; 12MP optical-quality 2x 18MP Center Stage, /1.9 iPhone Air 48MP Fusion Main, 26mm, /1.6 None No dedicated Telephoto; 12MP optical-quality 2x; up to 10x digital 18MP Center Stage, /1.9 iPhone 17e 48MP Fusion Main, 26mm, /1.6 None No dedicated Telephoto; 12MP 2x; up to 10x digital 12MP TrueDepth, /1.9 iPhone 16 48MP Fusion Main, 26mm, /1.6 12MP, 13mm, /2.2, 120 No dedicated Telephoto; 12MP optical-quality 2x; up to 10x digital 12MP TrueDepth, /1.9 Which iPhone has the best battery life? Mahmoud Itani / Foundry The iPhone 18 Pro Max has the best battery life of any current iPhone, with Apple rating it for up to 45 hours of video playback . That puts it comfortably ahead of the rest of the lineup and makes endurance one of the biggest reasons to choose it over the smaller iPhone 18 Pro . Its longer battery life comes from a combination of a larger battery, the more efficient2nm A20 Pro chip, and Apples lower-powerC2 modem. The iPhone Duo comes surprisingly close when used with its smaller 5.4-inch outer display, offering up to 44 hours of video playback . However, battery life drops to around 31 hours when using the larger 7.6-inch folding display, so the Pro Max remains the better choice if maximum endurance is your priority. If you want strong battery life without carrying the much larger and heavier Pro Max, the iPhone 18 Pro is an excellent compromise at up to 36 hours , while the iPhone 17 remains the best mainstream option at up to 30 hours . Our recommendation : If battery life matters above everything else, the iPhone 18 Pro Max is the clear choice . Its combination of a 45-hour rating, huge 6.9-inch display and Pro-level performance makes it particularly well suited to heavy users, travelers and anyone who wants to get through a long day without worrying about charging. We recommend: Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max Price When Reviewed: $1,299 Best Prices Today: $1299 at Apple iPhone battery life compared Heres how the current iPhone lineup compares for video playback battery life, based on Apples official ratings: iPhone Model Video Playback (Apple Rating) iPhone 18 Pro Max Up to 45 hours iPhone Duo (outer display) Up to 44 hours iPhone Duo (inner display) Up to 31 hours iPhone 18 Pro Up to 36 hours iPhone 17 Up to 30 hours iPhone Air Up to 27 hours iPhone 17e Up to 26 hours iPhone 16 Up to 22 hours We compare battery life, capacity, mah and watt hours for every iPhone separately. Which iPhone has the best display? The iPhone Duo has the biggest and most distinctive display of any current iPhone. Opened up, its 7.6-inch Super Retina XDR OLED screen offers around 50 percent more screen area than the iPhone 18 Pro Max, making it especially good for video, gaming, reading and multitasking. The inner display supports 120Hz ProMotion, Always-On and up to 3,000 nits of outdoor brightness, while a nano-texture finish helps reduce reflections and make the fold crease less noticeable. There is also a 5.4-inch outer OLED display with 120Hz ProMotion and 3,000-nit outdoor brightness. If you want the best conventional iPhone display, the iPhone 18 Pro Max is the standout choice. Its 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display combines an adaptive 1Hz to 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate, Always-On support and up to 3,000 nits of outdoor brightness. Ceramic Shield 2 provides additional protection, while Apple has also reduced the bezels and made the Dynamic Island smaller. The iPhone 18 Pro offers essentially the same display technology at a more manageable 6.3 inches. You no longer need to buy a Pro model to get Apples best core display technology, though. The iPhone 17 and iPhone Air also support ProMotion and Always-On, features that were previously reserved for Pro iPhones. Both reach 3,000 nits outdoors, with the iPhone 17 offering a 6.3-inch screen and the Air a larger 6.5-inch display. That makes the iPhone 17 particularly strong value if you want a premium screen without paying Pro prices. The older iPhone 16 and iPhone 17e are a noticeable step down. Neither supports ProMotion or Always-On, so their displays are limited to 60Hz. The iPhone 16 reaches up to 2,000 nits outdoors, while the 17e is dimmer still, with peak HDR brightness of 1,200 nits. The 17e also lacks the newer models ability to dim the display all the way down to 1 nit. Our recommendation : Ultimately, screen size may matter as much as display technology. Choose the iPhone Duo if you want the largest and most versatile screen, the iPhone 18 Pro Max for the best conventional large-screen iPhone, or the iPhone 17 if you want most of the premium display experience for considerably less money. We recommend: Apple iPhone Duo Price When Reviewed: $1999 Best Prices Today: $1999 at Apple Which iPhone is fastest? The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are the fastest iPhones you can buy, thanks to Apples new A20 Pro chip. The processor uses a 2nm manufacturing process and combines a six-core CPU with a seven-core GPU, a Dual 16-core Neural Engine and 50 percent more memory bandwidth than the previous A19 Pro. Apple says the GPU is up to 40 percent faster, while AI processing performance is roughly doubled. The Pro models also benefit from a much larger vapor chamber and a new chip-packaging design inspired by Apples M-series processors. Apple claims these changes deliver up to 40 percent better sustained performance than the iPhone 17 Pro, which should matter most during gaming, video editing and demanding on-device AI workloads. The iPhone Duo uses the same full A20 Pro chip, including all seven GPU cores, so peak performance should be very similar. However, its folding design makes cooling more difficult, so sustained performance is expected to be slightly lower than on the iPhone 18 Pro. Apple still claims up to 35 percent higher sustained performance than the iPhone 17 Pro. Further down the lineup, the iPhone Air uses the A19 Pro but with one fewer GPU core and less thermal headroom, while the iPhone 17 uses the standard A19 and the iPhone 17e a reduced-GPU version of that chip. Our recommendation : For most people, all of these phones are more than fast enough. But if you want the best performance for gaming, video work or intensive AI tasks, the iPhone 18 Pro or 18 Pro Max is the clear choice. Which iPhone is best for gaming? The iPhone 18 Pro is the best iPhone for gaming for most people. It combines Apples new A20 Pro chip with a seven-core GPU, 50 percent more memory bandwidth than the A19 Pro, and a much larger vapor-chamber cooling system. Apple says the GPU is up to 40 percent faster and sustained performance is up to 40 percent better than on the iPhone 17 Pro, improvements that should matter most during long gaming sessions. Its 6.3-inch 120Hz ProMotion display also delivers smooth, responsive gameplay without making the phone especially bulky. The iPhone 18 Pro Max offers essentially the same gaming performance, but its 6.9-inch display and much longer battery life make it the better option for gamers who prioritize screen size and endurance. Apple rates it for up to 45 hours of video playback, compared with 36 hours for the 18 Pro. The iPhone Duo is an interesting alternative. It uses the same A20 Pro chip with a seven-core GPU and vapor-chamber cooling, while its 7.6-inch inner ProMotion display provides far more room for games. The trade-offs are its much higher price, 254g weight and folding form factor. The iPhone Air and iPhone 17 are still very capable gaming phones, but they sit below the A20 Pro models for sustained graphics performance. Our recommendation : For most gamers, choose the iPhone 18 Pro ; choose the 18 Pro Max if you want the biggest conventional screen and longest battery life. Which iPhone is best value The iPhone 17 is the best-value iPhone overall because it gives you the strongest balance of price, display, cameras, storage and battery life without paying Pro prices. For $899/899, you get a 6.3-inch 120Hz ProMotion Always-On display, the A19 chip, dual 48MP rear cameras, an 18MP Center Stage front camera, 256GB of storage as standard and up to 30 hours of video playback. That is a substantial step up from the iPhone 17e, which is cheaper but drops ProMotion, Always-On and the Ultra Wide camera. The iPhone 17e is still the best budget choice if keeping the purchase price down matters most. It starts lower, still has the A19 chip and 256GB of storage, and offers excellent battery life, but its simpler display and single rear camera make it less complete. Our recommendation : Choose the iPhone 17 for the best overall value, or the iPhone 17e if your priority is spending as little as possible. We recommend: Apple iPhone 17 Price When Reviewed: $899 (was $799) We recommend: Apple iPhone 17e Price When Reviewed: $699 (was $599) Best Prices Today: $599 at Apple How to choose the right iPhone specs Choosing the right iPhone isnt just about picking the newest model. Youll also want to think about how much storage you need, what screen size feels comfortable, how much weight youre willing to carry, and whether features such as ProMotion, advanced cameras, longer battery life or extra performance are worth paying for. The right balance will depend on how you use your phone: someone who mainly messages, browses and takes occasional photos will have very different needs from someone who shoots lots of video, plays demanding games or wants a large display for reading and media. How much iPhone storage do you need? Choosing the right amount of storage is important because you cant add more internal storage later . iPhones dont have a microSD card slot, so its worth thinking about how much space youll need over the lifetime of the phone before you buy. The good news is that all of Apples current generation iPhones start with 256GB , including the iPhone 17e. Thats a much more comfortable starting point than 128GB, particularly as 48MP photos, 4K video, large games and system data all take up more space than they used to. It also makes the older 128GB iPhone 16 look like relatively poor value if it is only $100/100 less than a newer model with twice the storage. For most people, 256GB is the sweet spot . Before deciding, check how much storage youre currently using by going to Settings > General > iPhone Storage . If youre already close to your limit, move up a capacity when you upgrade. Several things can quickly eat into your available space: Photos and videos: 48MP photos and 4K video files are much larger than older formats. Apple Intelligence: Apples AI features require several gigabytes of dedicated storage. Apps and games: Some modern games can take up many gigabytes. System data: iOS, caches and logs can consume a significant amount of space over time. Which storage size should you buy? 128GB: Only worth considering on an older discounted model if you mostly stream content and rely heavily on cloud storage. 256GB: The best choice for most people, with enough room for apps, photos, videos and several years of use. 512GB: Ideal if you shoot lots of 4K video, keep a large offline media library or install many large games. 1TB or 2TB: Best suited to photographers, videographers and creators who regularly work with ProRAW or ProRes files. Can you add more storage later? No. You cant upgrade an iPhones internal storage after purchase. You can, however, free up space with iCloud+ , which lets you keep full-resolution photos and videos in the cloud while storing smaller optimized versions on the iPhone. You can also connect a USB-C SSD or flash drive to compatible iPhones to transfer files or, on supported Pro models, record ProRes video directly to external storage. Our recommendation: Buy as much storage as you can comfortably afford. You cant add more later, and paying a little extra upfront is often preferable to running out of space a few years down the line. Read How much storage do you need on an iPhone? for more advice. Which iPhone processor should you choose? Apple Apples A-series chips have consistently set the benchmark for smartphone performance, but the current lineup now spans several generations and performance tiers. At the top is the A20 Pro , which powers the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and iPhone Duo. It is Apples first iPhone chip built on a 2nm process and features a six-core CPU, seven-core GPU, Dual 16-core Neural Engine and 50 percent more memory bandwidth than the A19 Pro. Apple says CPU performance is up to 20 percent faster than the A19 Pro, while GPU performance is up to 40 percent faster, with roughly double the AI compute performance. The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are the best choices if you want maximum performance, particularly for demanding games, video editing or intensive Apple Intelligence tasks. Their larger vapor chamber and revised chip packaging also improve sustained performance, with Apple claiming up to 40 percent better sustained performance than the iPhone 17 Pro. The iPhone Duo uses the same full A20 Pro chip, including all seven GPU cores, although its folding design places greater constraints on cooling. The previous-generation A19 Pro remains very capable. It powered the now-discontinued iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max and is still used in the iPhone Air. The Pro models used the full six-core GPU, while the Air has five GPU cores and less thermal headroom. The standard iPhone 17 uses the A19 , while the iPhone 17e uses a cut-down version with a four-core GPU. Both are still more than fast enough for everyday use, multitasking, gaming and Apple Intelligence. Our recommendation : For most people, processor choice shouldnt be the deciding factor: even the A19 offers more performance than typical users need. Choose an A20 Pro iPhone if you want the fastest graphics, best sustained performance and strongest long-term headroom; otherwise, the A19 in the iPhone 17 offers the best balance of speed and value. for everyday use, gaming and AI features. For most buyers, the choice between models is likely to come down to cameras and other features rather than processor speed alone. Finding the iPhone dimensions and design that suit you Which iPhone has the best looks? Apple Once youve narrowed down the features you need, think about which iPhone will actually be comfortable to carry and use every day. Screen size is only part of the story: dimensions, weight, thickness and materials can make two similarly sized iPhones feel very different. The most distinctive model is the iPhone Duo . Folded, it is short and wide at 117.8 x 84.1 x 11.3mm, but opens to 164.6mm wide and just 5.2mm thick, with a 7.6-inch inner display. At 254g, it is also the heaviest current iPhone. It uses a titanium frame, has Touch ID in the side button, and keeps Camera Control but drops the Action button. At the other extreme is the iPhone Air , which is only 5.64mm thick and 165g, despite having a 6.5-inch display. Its titanium frame and single rear camera make it the obvious choice if low weight and thinness matter more than camera versatility or maximum battery life. The iPhone 18 Pro measures 150 x 71.9 x 8.75mm and 211g, while the 18 Pro Max is 163.4 x 78 x 8.75mm and 249g. The Pro Max is substantially heavier, so its worth handling one before buying. The iPhone 17 sits in the middle at 149.6 x 71.5 x 7.95mm and 177g, making its 6.3-inch display easier to manage. We recommend: Apple iPhone Air (2025) Price When Reviewed: $1,099 (was $999) iPhone 17e iPhone 16 iPhone 17 iPhone Air iPhone 18 Pro iPhone 18 Pro Max iPhone Duo Starting price $699/699 $799/799 $899/899 $1,099/1,099 $1,199/1,199 $1,299/1,299 $1,999/1,999 Screen size 6.1 6.1 6.3 6.5 6.3 6.9 7.6 Size (H x W x D) 146.7mm (5.78inches) x 71.5mm (2.82inches) x 7.80mm (0.31inches) 147.6mm (5.81inches) x 71.6mm (2.82inches) x 7.80mm (0.31inches) 149.6mm (5.89inches) x 71.5mm (2.81inches) x 7.95mm (0.31inches) 156.2mm (6.15inches) x 74.7mm (2.94inches) x 5.64mm (0.22inches) 150mm (5.91inches) x 71.9mm (2.83inches) x 8.75mm (0.34inches) 163.4mm (6.43inches) x 78mm (3.07inches) x 8.75mm (0.34inches) Closed : 117.8mm (4.64inches) x 84.1mm (3.31inches) x 11.3mm (0.44inches) Open : 117.8mm (4.64inches) x 164.6mm (6.48 inches) x 5.2 mm (0.21 inches) Weight 169grams (5.96ounces) 170 grams (6.00 ounces) 177 grams (6.24 ounces) 165 grams (5.82ounces) 204 grams (7.20 ounces) 231 grams (8.15 ounces) 254 grams (8.96 ounces) Colors White, Black, Pink Ultramarine, Teal, Pink, White, Black Lavender, Sage, Mist Blue, White, Black Sky Blue, Light Gold, Cloud White, Space Black Burgundy, Glacier, Silver, Black Burgundy, Glacier, Silver, Black Star White, Night Sky All the iPhones currently sold by Apple Design differences Most current iPhones include Camera Control , the touch-sensitive side control for launching the Camera app and adjusting settings. The iPhone 17e is the exception. The Action button is also standard on most recent models, although the Duo omits it. Camera layouts vary too. The 18 Pro and Pro Max have three rear cameras across a broad Camera Plateau, the Duo and iPhone 17 use dual-camera systems, and the Air and 17e have a single rear camera. Color choices vary by model, from understated finishes on the Pro and Duo to brighter options on the iPhone 17 and iPhone 16, so your preferred look may help narrow down the choice. Durability The neweriPhone 18 Pro models, iPhone 17, Air and 17e use Ceramic Shield 2 on the front, while the Air and Pro models also add extra protection to the rear. Current iPhones are also ratedIP68 for water and dust resistance, but that doesnt make them waterproof, so a case is still a sensible precaution. Our recommendation: Choose the iPhone Air if portability matters most, the iPhone 17 or 18 Pro for the best balance of size and usability, the Pro Max for a larger screen and battery, or the Duo if you specifically want the foldable design. Best way to buy an iPhone There are several ways to buy an iPhone, each with its own advantages. The two main options are buying directly from Apple or through a mobile carrier. In the U.S., iPhones are typically purchased on a carrier contract and are often locked to that network. In the U.K., you can also buy an unlocked, SIM-free iPhone outright from Apple or other retailers, either at full price or with a discount. Buy directly from Apple Jon Stoa Pros : You can get an unlocked, SIM-free phone (in most regions), access to the iPhone Upgrade Program, and the ability to trade in your old device for credit (up to $650). Its also the best place to pre-order a new model for the fastest delivery. Cons : You almost always pay full retail price. Buy from a Carrier Pros : This is where youll find the biggest discounts, often in the form of bill credits over 24 or 36 months when you trade in a phone and sign up for a qualifying plan. For example, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon frequently offer up to $830$1,000 off new iPhones with a trade-in . Cons : These deals come with significant strings attached, including long-term contracts and specific plan requirements. Always read the fine print A contract usually starts with an upfront payment that will vary depending on the iPhone model you go for and also how much youll be paying each month. That upfront payment is followed by monthly payments, normally for a total of 24 months, after which you own the phone (in most cases). Those monthly payments also cover data, minutes and texts. The following networks are worth checking for their contract offers: AT&T Sprint T-Mobile Verizon Optimum Mobile Boost Infinite U.K. readers can find iPhone contracts from the following networks: O2 EE Vodafone Three Tesco Mobile Sky Mobile Virgin Mobile Carphone Warehouse Mobiles.co.uk E2save Mobile Phones Direct Buy from a third-party reseller Pros : In the U.K., resellers like Amazon, Currys, and John Lewis frequently sell unlocked iPhones at a discount, often offering the best upfront savings . For instance, Amazon has offered 200 off the iPhone Air. Cons : Availability and deals change frequently. You could try the following third-party resellers: Amazon Ao.com Argos Currys John Lewis Buy via Apples iPhone Upgrade Program Apple offers financing and upgrade options that let you spread the cost of an iPhone over monthly payments, although the schemes differ between the U.S. and U.K. In the U.S. , Apple has ceased the old iPhone Upgrade Program and now directs customers to Apple Upgrade , a lease-based option that lets you make monthly payments and upgrade to a new device at the end of the lease by returning your current one. Apple also offers carrier deals, financing and outright purchase options. In the U.K. , Apple has replaced the traditional iPhone Upgrade Programme with a Flexible Finance Account with Upgrade Option , provided by Creation. Eligible iPhones can be bought on a 20-month 0% plan with an upgrade option after 11 payments , or a 30-month 0% plan with an upgrade option after 23 payments . Current plans start from 64.95 a month for the 20-month option or 43.30 a month for the 30-month option . Whether these plans are good value depends on how often you upgrade. They can be convenient if you like replacing your iPhone regularly, but if you usually keep a phone for several years, buying outright or using standard 0% finance may work out cheaper overall. Buy a refurbished iPhone Apple Buying an iPhone doesnt come cheap. However, if youre strapped for cash you dont have to dismiss the idea of buying an iPhone completely. You may be able to get a good deal on a refurbished model. Buying a refurbished iPhone is a smart way to save money while still getting a premium device, but the key is knowing where to shop and what to look for. Understand the difference between refurbished vs used Refurbished : Professionally inspected, tested and repaired where necessary. It should come with a warranty and may also have a replacement battery. Used or second-hand : Usually sold by an individual in its current condition, often without a warranty or any guarantee that it is fully functional. There is also a greater risk of hidden faults or Activation Lock problems. What to check before buying Warranty : Choose a seller offering a meaningful warranty, ideally for at least 12 months. Condition grade: Sellers use grades such as A, B and C, or Fair, Good and Excellent. Higher grades indicate less cosmetic wear but usually cost more. Battery health : Check the sellers minimum battery-capacity guarantee. Many refurbished sellers promise at least 80% of the batterys original capacity, while Apple-furbished iPhones receive a new battery. Unlocked or locked : Confirm that the iPhone is unlocked and can be used with your preferred mobile network. This is particularly important when buying in the U.S. Model age : Avoid iPhones that are close to losing software support. As of mid-2026, the iPhone XS, XS Max and XR are no longer sensible long-term purchases, while the iPhone 11 should be approached with caution. Shop at Apples Certified Refurbished Store Apples Certified Refurbished Store is generally the safest place to start and sets the standard for refurbished quality. Apple thoroughly tests each device, replaces the battery and outer shell, and supplies it in a new box with the appropriate accessories. Refurbished iPhones also come with Apples standard one-year warranty, 90 days of technical support and the option to add AppleCare+. Prices are typically around 15% lower than the original retail price, although availability varies. Apple operates refurbished stores in both the U.S. and U.K . Consider other trusted resellers If you cant find what you need at Apples Certified Refurbished Store, try one of these places to buy a refurbished iPhone . U.S.: Back Market : You get 30 days to change your mind and a 12-month warranty or occasionally more. Take careful note of the phones quality rating as the cheapest will have more visible signs of wear (stratches and scuffs) than the more expensive Excellent and Premium buys. Premium-quality iPhones also have the highest-rated batteries and only Apple parts. Amazon Renewed Store : This sites greatest benefit is that purchases are all backed by Amazons standard returns policy and its Renewed Guarantee lets you get a refund or replacement within a year of receiving your product. Best Buy : Best Buy doesnt offer a great deal of information on pre-owned iPhones condition, but you can return within 14 days if the item is unopened or defective in any way. Walmart : Walmart doesnt sell refurbished iPhones directly; rather, they are sourced from other sellers. Return policies vary from seller to seller, but there are minimum requirements that apply universally. U.K.: Back Market : You get 30 days to change your mind and a 12-month warranty or occasionally more. See above for more details on Back Markets quality rankings. Music Magpie : A good place to start looking for refurbished iPhones with a one-year warranty. You may find that sales reduce the price still further. Hoxton Macs : Dont let the Mac in the name fool you. Hoxton Macs has started selling refurbished iPhones, with a one-year Return to Base warranty. Reboxed : Pledges that devices are fully tested and in perfect working order. All come with a 12-month no quibble warranty. Amazon Renewed Store : While you cant really sell on Amazon Renewed unless youre a business, those looking to buy a refurbished iPhone Amazon Renewed have plenty of options to choose from. Its greatest benefit is that purchases are all backed by Amazons standard returns policy and its Renewed Guarantee lets you get a refund or replacement within 1 year of receiving your product. Envirofone : Also allows you to trade in your old phone for credit towards purchasing a refurbished phone.

ACEMAGIC Unveiled the F9A Pro 495 at IFA, Packing 192GB of Memory Into a Tiny AI PC

ACEMAGIC showcased its F9A AI Mini Workstation series at IFA 2026, including a new flagship F9A-PRO 495 configuration with up to 192GB of unified memory. The series is designed for running large AI models, development tools, and demanding creative workloads locally in a compact 2-liter desktop. The F9A first appeared on July 24, 2026 , when ACEMAGIC unveiled the original configuration powered by AMDs Ryzen AI Max+ 395 through its official community channel. ACEMAGIC followed with a formal product announcement on its website on August 17. That model combines a 16-core, 32-thread Zen 5 CPU with Radeon 8060S graphics , a 50-TOPS NPU, and up to 128GB of LPDDR5X-8000 unified memory . For IFA 2026 , ACEMAGIC expanded the lineup with the F9A-PRO 495 , announcing the new configuration ahead of the show on August 31 and introducing it at IFA in Berlin beginning September 4. The new model moves to AMDs Ryzen AI Max+ PRO 495 , retaining 16 CPU cores and 32 threads while increasing boost frequency from 5.1GHz to 5.2GHz. It also adds Radeon 8065S graphics , a 55-TOPS NPU, and up to 192GB of faster LPDDR5X-8533 unified memory , bringing total system AI performance to a claimed 131 TOPS . The extra memory is critical for running large AI models directly on the PC. According to ACEMAGIC, the F9A-395 can allocate up to 96GB of its memory to graphics and AI workloads and handle mixture-of-experts models up to 200 billion parameters. The PRO 495 increases the allocation to 160GB and supports models up to 300 billion parameters. Both versions use the same compact 158.5 158.5 81.5mm aluminum chassis , with five heat pipes and a turbo fan designed to sustain 120W operation and reach 140W peak power. Connectivity includes dual USB4, OCuLink PCIe 4.0 x4, dual 2.5GbE, Wi-Fi 7, HDMI, DisplayPort, an SD card reader, and dual M.2 PCIe 4.0 SSD slots supporting up to 8TB . A four-microphone array and dual 2W speakers also support voice-based AI applications and conferencing. Pricing and retail availability for the F9A-PRO 495 have not been announced yet. ACEMAGIC F9A Series Key Specs Specification F9A-395 F9A-PRO 495 Introduced July 24, 2026 IFA 2026, September 4 Processor AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 AMD Ryzen AI Max+ PRO 495 CPU 16 cores / 32 threads 16 cores / 32 threads Max Boost 5.1GHz 5.2GHz Graphics Radeon 8060S Radeon 8065S NPU 50 TOPS 55 TOPS Total AI Performance Up to 126 TOPS Up to 131 TOPS Memory Up to 128GB LPDDR5X-8000 Up to 192GB LPDDR5X-8533 Max Shared Allocation 96GB 160GB Storage 2 M.2 PCIe 4.0, up to 8TB Same Expansion OCuLink PCIe 4.0 x4 Same Networking Dual 2.5GbE, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 Same Dimensions 158.5 158.5 81.5mm, 2L Same ACEMAGIC Unveiled the F9A Pro 495 at IFA, Packing 192GB of Memory Into a Tiny AI PC , original content from Ubergizmo . Read our Copyrights and terms of use .

Delhi High Court Raises Concerns Over Violence in University Elections

The Delhi High Court has expressed concerns over recent violence during student elections at Delhi University, demanding reports from involved parties. Delhi High Court Raises Concerns Over Violence in University Elections

Vigilance FIR against Mandi Parishad deputy director over disproportionate assets

The Marks Tell Only Half the Story: Can We Learn to See the Child?

A few winters ago, in a school perched on a hill in a remote tehsil of Kashmir, I watched a father wait outside a classroom, turning the pages of his son's result card over and over, as though the numbers printed on it might rearrange themselves into something kinder. When the teacher finally came out, his first question was not about his son's curiosity, his kindness to a younger classmate, or the wonder with which the boy had, only weeks earlier, tried to build a working water-wheel from twigs and thread. His question was the only one our system had trained him to ask: Kitne marks aaye? How many marks did he get? I have carried that image with me for years, because it captures, more honestly than any policy document can, the quiet violence of an assessment culture built entirely around numbers. In thirty years of teaching and teacher education across the high pastures of Kupwara and Silmone, Kargil, the crowded classrooms of Budgam, and now in the corridors of SCERT, I have watched children reduced, again and again, to a single figure on a page: 62%, 78%, 94%. Behind every one of those numbers sits a whole human being restless, curious, wounded, hopeful whom the number does not even attempt to see. It is this narrowness, this quiet erasure, that the Digital Holistic Progress Card (HPC), developed by PARAKH under the National Council of Educational Research and Training, now asks us to correct. And I believe, with the conviction of a man who has spent a lifetime in Kashmir's classrooms, that this is not a reform we should merely comply with. It is one we should welcome, wholeheartedly and without delay. From Recall to Recognition For generations, the Kashmiri report card, like report cards everywhere in India, has functioned as a scorecard of memorisation: how much content a child could retain and reproduce under the pressure of a three-hour examination. It rewarded recall over understanding, silence over curiosity, and conformity over the kind of thinking a child actually needs to face an unpredictable world. The Digital HPC proposes something different, and something, I would argue, closer to what education was always meant to be. It replaces the one-time summative verdict with a continuous, developmental profile one that asks not how much did the child memorise? but how has the child grown? It looks at whether a learner can apply knowledge to real situations, not merely recite it. It attends to physical, emotional, social, and creative growth alongside the academic. And it treats feedback not as a final judgement delivered once a year, but as an ongoing conversation between teacher and learner throughout the year. There is a line I return to often, from Saadi Shirazi's Gulistan: the gardener does not measure a sapling's worth by the flowers it has already given, but tends it patiently, trusting the blossoms that are yet to come. Our examination culture has too often behaved like an impatient orchard-keeper, judging saplings as though they were already full-grown trees. The HPC, at its philosophical core, asks us to become gardeners again to nurture rather than merely to grade. A 360-Degree Gaze Digitally Held What makes the Digital HPC genuinely new is not just its philosophy but its architecture. For too long, assessment in our schools has been a one-directional act: the teacher observes, the teacher judges, the teacher records. The HPC's digital portal distributes that gaze across four pillars: self-assessment, peer assessment, teacher assessment, and parent or caregiver feedback, each entered and tracked through a common platform that follows the child's growth over time rather than capturing a single snapshot. This matters enormously in our context. Ask a child in Budgam or Bandipora to reflect honestly on their own learning, and you will often be met with hesitation not because they lack insight, but because no one has ever asked them to trust their own judgement about themselves. Peer assessment, too, is unfamiliar territory in classrooms where competition, not collaboration, has long been the operating logic. And parental involvement in our schools has traditionally meant one thing only: attending a meeting to be told how the child performed, rarely being asked what the parent has observed at home: the child's patience with a younger sibling, their curiosity about the stars, their struggle with sleep before an exam. The digital HPC does not merely add these voices as decoration. It structurally requires them, logging them into a shared, trackable record. Done honestly, this could be transformative for Kashmiri households, where the home and the school have too often functioned as separate, uncommunicating worlds. A mother's observation about her daughter's growing confidence at home becomes, for the first time, part of the official record of that child's education, not an afterthought whispered at the school gate. I would be doing my profession, and my readers, a disservice if I painted this transition as effortless. The HPC follows the NEP's 5+3+3+4 structure, with distinct cards for the Foundational stage (Balvatika to Grade 2), the Preparatory stage (Grades 35), the Middle stage (Grades 68), and the Secondary stage (Grades 912), each demanding a different kind of teacher fluency, from play-based observation in early years to guiding self-directed, modular learning by Grade 12. In Kashmir, this staged vision runs headlong into some stubborn realities. First, teacher training: rubric-based, competency-focused assessment is a fundamentally different skill from setting and marking a written paper, and many of our teachers, through no fault of their own, have never been trained in it. Second, digital access: a portal-based system presumes reliable connectivity and devices, assumptions that do not hold in large parts of Gurez, Karnah, Shuplain(Khag) or the higher reaches of Kokernag and Kangan, where even electricity can be intermittent. Third, our multilingual reality a classroom where Kashmiri, Urdu, and increasingly English circulate together means that rubrics and reflection prompts designed elsewhere may not translate naturally into how our children and parents actually think and speak. And fourth, and perhaps most dangerous of all: the risk that the HPC becomes, in practice, just one more form to fill a digital ritual performed for compliance rather than genuine understanding, adding to an already overburdened teacher's workload without changing a single thing about how a child is actually seen. These are not reasons to resist the HPC. They are reasons to implement it with humility, adequate resourcing, and patience, investing seriously in teacher capacity-building, ensuring offline or low-bandwidth alternatives for our remotest schools, and resisting the temptation to treat the rollout as a box-ticking exercise measured by how many logins occurred rather than how many children were genuinely better understood. An Invitation, Not a Circular It would be easy, and I have seen this happen before with well-intentioned reforms for the Digital HPC to arrive in our schools as just another directive from Delhi: a new form, a new portal, a new burden layered atop an already exhausted teaching workforce. I want to insist, as someone who has spent three decades inside this system, that this would be a tragic misreading of what is actually being offered. The HPC is not a mandate to be endured. It is an invitation to teachers, to SCERT, to every stakeholder in Kashmir's education system to finally build the kind of assessment our children have always deserved: one that sees them as whole, growing, unfinished human beings rather than as numbers awaiting compilation. If we, in Kashmir, choose to own this reform rather than merely administer it, training our teachers with genuine seriousness, adapting its rubrics to our own linguistic and cultural realities, and insisting on the resources our remote schools need to participate fully, we have the chance to model something the rest of the country could learn from. I think again of that father outside the classroom, waiting for a number to tell him who his son was. I would like to imagine a different scene, some years from now: a father and a teacher, sitting together, discussing not a percentage but a portrait: a child's growing confidence, his patience with others, the questions that keep him up at night with wonder rather than dread. That is the promise of the Holistic Progress Card. It is now on us teachers, administrators, and policymakers alike to make sure Kashmir does not let that promise go unfulfilled. (The author is a senior teacher educator, curriculum developer and education researcher with over three decades of experience in school education and teacher education. His work focuses on curriculum reform, foundational, middle and Higher secondary stage learning, assessment, multilingual education and the implementation of contemporary educational frameworks in Jammu & Kashmir. He can be reached at: sheikhgulzar1970@gmail.com )

Job in Antarctica after 30 years at HP: 59-year-old woman was laid off, struggled to find work & then landed an unexpected role on the frozen continent

May Lee, who spent 30 years at Hewlett-Packard, faced an unexpected layoff that prompted her to reconsider her career path. After an unsuccessful job search, she discovered seasonal work opportunities in Antarctica, a continent she had previously visited twice. Lee secured a role as a supply technician, where her responsibilities included operating a forklift, checking cargo and carrying out physically demanding tasks. The experience offered a refreshing change from her previous desk-based corporate career.

Army reviews security, counter-terrorism ops in Poonch

Jammu, Sep 17 : General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Northern Command Lt Gen Pratik Sharma on Thursday visited Surankote sector in Jammu and Kashmirs border district of Poonch to review security arrangements and counter-terrorism efforts, the Army said. The northern commanders visit to Surankote comes three days after General Officer Commanding (GOC) of White Knight Corps [] The post Army reviews security, counter-terrorism ops in Poonch appeared first on Northlines .

NIMS doctors threaten strike over abuse of colleague

Hyderabad:The Resident Doctors Association (RDA) at the Nizams Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS) has strongly condemned an incident in which relatives of a patient allegedly abused and threatened a resident doctor on duty, demanding that a first investigation report (FIR) be registered immediately against those involved. The incident occurred on Wednesday evening, September 16, when 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 15 Pro vs. iPhone 18 Pro Buyer

Apple announced the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max earlier this month, arriving three years after the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. Three generations of changes make for a substantial upgrade, bringing larger displays, an all-new design, improvements to every camera, significantly longer battery life, and faster charging. The iPhone 16 Pro introduced larger displays with thinner borders, the Camera Control, a 48-megapixel Ultra Wide camera, and improved video and audio recording. The iPhone 17 Pro replaced the titanium frame and glass back with an aluminum unibody, added vapor chamber cooling and Ceramic Shield 2, and upgraded both the telephoto and front-facing cameras. This year's refresh centers on the A20 Pro chip, a variable-aperture Main camera, a smaller Dynamic Island , and a further increase in battery capacity . For iPhone 15 Pro owners, all three sets of changes accumulate. The iPhone 18 Pro starts at $1,199 for 256GB, $200 more than the iPhone 15 Pro's $999 launch price, although the entry storage tier has doubled from 128GB. The iPhone 18 Pro Max starts at $1,299, $100 more than the iPhone 15 Pro Max's equivalent starting configuration. Here are the key differences between the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro: Design and Display iPhone 15 Pro (2023) iPhone 18 Pro (2026) Brushed titanium frame with full glass back Aluminum unibody with partial Ceramic Shield back, improving heat dissipation Glass rounded square camera bump Full-width rounded rectangle aluminum camera plateau iPhone 15 Pro : 6.1-inch display iPhone 15 Pro Max : 6.7-inch display iPhone 18 Pro : 6.3-inch display iPhone 18 Pro Max : 6.9-inch display iPhone 15 Pro : 2,556-by-1,179-pixel resolution iPhone 15 Pro Max : 2,796-by-1,290-pixel resolution iPhone 18 Pro : 2,622-by-1,206-pixel resolution iPhone 18 Pro Max : 2,868-by-1,320-pixel resolution Wider borders around the display Thinner borders, with the initial reduction of 30% introduced on the iPhone 16 Pro Approximately 2-4 nits minimum display brightness 1 nit minimum display brightness More power-efficient display Ceramic Shield front Ceramic Shield 2 front, with Apple claiming 3x better scratch resistance than the iPhone 16 Pro Fingerprint-resistant oleophobic coating only Fingerprint-resistant oleophobic coating and Apple-designed anti-reflective coating to reduce glare 2,000 nits peak display brightness (outdoor) 3,000 nits peak display brightness (outdoor), a 50% increase 2x better outdoor contrast, as stated in the iPhone 16 Pro comparison Dynamic Island supports up to two simultaneous Live Activities Smaller Dynamic Island, supports up to three simultaneous Live Activities Camera Control capacitive button with sapphire crystal cover Available in Black Titanium, White Titanium, Natural Titanium, and Blue Titanium Available in Silver, Black, Glacier, and Burgundy 99% or more fiber-based packaging 100% fiber-based packaging, suitable for recycling Dimensions and Weight iPhone 15 Pro (2023) iPhone 18 Pro (2026) Height iPhone 15 Pro : 146.6mm (5.77 inches) iPhone 15 Pro Max : 159.9mm (6.29 inches) iPhone 18 Pro : 150.0mm (5.91 inches) iPhone 18 Pro Max : 163.4mm (6.43 inches) Width iPhone 15 Pro : 70.6mm (2.78 inches) iPhone 15 Pro Max : 76.7mm (3.02 inches) iPhone 18 Pro : 71.9mm (2.83 inches) iPhone 18 Pro Max : 78.0mm (3.07 inches) Thickness 8.25mm (0.32 inches) 8.75mm (0.34 inches) Weight iPhone 15 Pro : 187 grams (6.60 ounces) iPhone 15 Pro Max : 221 grams (7.81 ounces) iPhone 18 Pro : 211 grams (7.44 ounces), an increase of 24 grams iPhone 18 Pro Max : 249 grams (8.78 ounces), an increase of 28 grams Chip, Performance, and Connectivity iPhone 15 Pro (2023) iPhone 18 Pro (2026) A17 Pro chip A20 Pro chip Built with TSMC's N3B process (first-generation 3nm ) Built with TSMC's N2 process (2nm), Apple's first 2nm smartphone chip 6-core CPU with 2 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores 6-core CPU with 2 super cores and 4 efficiency cores 8GB LPDDR5 RAM 12GB LPDDR5X RAM 51.2Gb/s memory bandwidth 115GB/s memory bandwidth 6-core GPU 7-core GPU with Neural Accelerators First-generation hardware-accelerated ray tracing Faster hardware-accelerated ray tracing 16-core Neural Engine Dual 16-core Neural Engine (32 total cores) Vapor chamber cooling with 3x more surface area than the iPhone 17 Pro New chip packaging that places silicon die beside memory, allowing it to attach directly to the vapor chamber Earlier video encoding hardware Enhanced video encoding hardware supporting higher-frame-rate recording and additional professional formats Qualcomm Snapdragon X70 modem iPhone 18 Pro : Apple C2 modem in all countries iPhone 18 Pro Max : Apple C2 modem in all countries except the U.S., where it uses a Qualcomm modem Broadcom Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip Apple N1 chip for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity Bluetooth 6 connectivity Rear Camera iPhone 15 Pro (2023) iPhone 18 Pro (2026) First-generation quad-pixel sensor Newer sensor and computational imaging pipeline, building on the faster readout speeds and zero shutter lag introduced with the iPhone 16 Pro Fixed /1.78 aperture on the Main camera Variable aperture with four stops: /1.48, /1.8, /2.8, and /4.0, using six laser-cut blades API available for developers to control the aperture range within their own apps Night mode Faster Night mode, tied to the new variable-aperture lens Around 50% better Main camera low-light performance than the iPhone 16 Pro, with more detail in the back of group photos Pro controls in the Camera app: manual lens aperture, shutter speed, white balance, and histogram 12-megapixel Ultra Wide camera 48-megapixel Fusion Ultra Wide camera 12-megapixel Telephoto camera 48-megapixel Fusion Telephoto camera iPhone 15 Pro : 3x Telephoto camera, with 77mm focal length iPhone 15 Pro Max : 5x Telephoto camera, with 120mm focal length 4x Telephoto camera, with 100mm focal length, also enabling 12-megapixel optical-quality 8x shots at 200mm iPhone 15 Pro : 0.5x, 1x, 2x, and 3x zoom options, with optical-quality 2x derived from the Main camera iPhone 15 Pro Max : 0.5x, 1x, 2x, and 5x zoom options, with optical-quality 2x derived from the Main camera 0.5x, 1x, 2x, 4x, and 8x zoom options, with optical-quality 2x and 8x derived from the Main and Telephoto cameras Macro photography 48-megapixel macro photography Support for JPEG-XL format First-generation Photographic Styles Photographic Styles 3, with tone, color, texture, and grain controls Depth mapping for AR and portrait photography Enhanced depth mapping for AR and portrait photography, with more accurate background and subject separation and more realistic bokeh Smart focus tracking Apple Reference Image (Main camera only) Camera Control The iPhone 15 Pro already has an Action button that can launch the camera or Visual Intelligence , but it lacks the dedicated Camera Control introduced with the iPhone 16 lineup. The iPhone 18 Pro's Camera Control provides the following additional functions: Press Camera Control to launch the Camera app Press to capture a photo or press and hold to record video Light press to lock focus and exposure before reframing Slide across the capacitive surface to adjust settings such as zoom, exposure, styles, and tone Light-press controls overlay for quick access to camera settings Integration with supported third-party camera apps Press and hold to activate Visual Intelligence Video Recording iPhone 15 Pro (2023) iPhone 18 Pro (2026) 4K video recording at 24 fps, 25 fps, 30 fps, or 60 fps, with Dolby Vision HDR up to 60 fps 4K Dolby Vision video recording at 24 fps, 25 fps, 30 fps, 60 fps, 100 fps (Fusion Main), or 120 fps (Fusion Main) 1080p HD video recording at 25 fps, 30 fps, or 60 fps 1080p Dolby Vision video recording at 25 fps, 30 fps, 60 fps, or 120 fps (Fusion Main) ProRes video recording up to 4K at 60 fps with external recording ProRes video recording up to 4K at 120 fps with external recording Slo-mo video support for 1080p at 120 fps or 240 fps Slo-mo video support for 1080p up to 240 fps and 4K Dolby Vision up to 120 fps (Fusion Main) Cinematic mode recording up to 4K HDR at 30 fps Cinematic mode recording up to 4K Dolby Vision at 60 fps Cinematic mode effects can be applied after capture to Fusion Main video shot at up to 60 fps Pro controls for lens aperture, shutter speed, white balance, and histogram Smart focus tracking Improved low-light video at 1080p Time-lapse video recording with stabilization Time-lapse video recording with stabilization, up to 4K Dolby Vision QuickTake video QuickTake video up to 4K Dolby Vision at 60 fps Apple Log Apple Log 2 ProRes RAW capture support Genlock support Dual Capture up to 4K Dolby Vision at 30 fps Front Camera iPhone 15 Pro (2023) iPhone 18 Pro (2026) 12-megapixel TrueDepth camera with conventional rectangular sensor 18-megapixel Center Stage camera with square sensor and TrueDepth technology Tap to zoom Tap to zoom and rotate, allowing portrait and landscape framing without rotating the iPhone Center Stage for photos and video calls Ultra-stabilized video Dual Capture, recording the front and rear cameras simultaneously at up to 4K Dolby Vision at 30 fps First-generation Photographic Styles Photographic Styles 3, with tone, color, texture, and grain controls Smart focus tracking, as described in the supplied comparison Pro controls for shutter speed, white balance, and histogram 4K video recording at 24 fps, 25 fps, 30 fps, or 60 fps, with Dolby Vision HDR up to 60 fps 4K Dolby Vision video recording at 24 fps, 25 fps, 30 fps, or 60 fps 1080p HD video recording at 25 fps, 30 fps, or 60 fps 1080p Dolby Vision video recording at 25 fps, 30 fps, or 60 fps Cinematic mode up to 4K HDR at 30 fps Cinematic mode up to 4K Dolby Vision at 30 fps Cinematic mode effects can be applied after capture Improved low-light video at 1080p Time-lapse video recording with stabilization Time-lapse video recording with stabilization, up to 4K Dolby Vision QuickTake video QuickTake video up to 4K at 60 fps in Dolby Vision Apple Log Apple Log 2 ProRes RAW capture support Audio Recording iPhone 15 Pro (2023) iPhone 18 Pro (2026) Stereo recording Spatial Audio and stereo recording Studio-quality four-mic array Wind noise reduction Audio Mix with algorithms for higher-quality voices and the ability to isolate music Battery and Charging iPhone 15 Pro (2023) iPhone 18 Pro (2026) iPhone 15 Pro : 3,274 mAh battery iPhone 15 Pro Max : 4,422 mAh battery iPhone 18 Pro : 4,056 mAh battery (SIM-tray models); 4,288 mAh battery (eSIM-only models) iPhone 18 Pro Max : 5,391 mAh battery (SIM-tray models); 5,567 mAh battery (eSIM-only models) iPhone 15 Pro : Up to 23 hours of video playback iPhone 15 Pro Max : Up to 29 hours of video playback iPhone 18 Pro : Up to 36 hours of video playback iPhone 18 Pro Max : Up to 45 hours of video playback iPhone 15 Pro : Up to 20 hours of streamed video playback iPhone 15 Pro Max : Up to 25 hours of streamed video playback iPhone 18 Pro : Up to 33 hours of streamed video playback iPhone 18 Pro Max : Up to 40 hours of streamed video playback Up to 50% charge in around 30 minutes with a 20W adapter or higher Up to 50% charge in around 15 minutes with a 60W-capable adapter or higher supporting Adjustable Voltage Supply MagSafe wireless charging up to 15W with a 20W adapter or higher MagSafe wireless charging up to 25W, reaching 50% charge in 30 minutes with a 35W adapter or higher Qi2 wireless charging up to 15W Qi2 wireless charging up to 25W Storage and Pricing iPhone 15 Pro (2023) iPhone 18 Pro (2026) iPhone 15 Pro : Available with 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB storage iPhone 15 Pro Max : Available with 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB storage Available with 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB storage iPhone 15 Pro : Launched at $999 (128GB), $1,099 (256GB), $1,299 (512GB), $1,499 (1TB) iPhone 15 Pro Max : Launched at $1,199 (256GB), $1,399 (512GB), $1,599 (1TB) iPhone 18 Pro : $1,199 (256GB), $1,399 (512GB), $1,799 (1TB), $2,399 (2TB) iPhone 18 Pro Max : $1,299 (256GB), $1,499 (512GB), $1,899 (1TB), $2,499 (2TB) Now discontinued Sold directly by Apple Current purchase prices depend on third-party stock, condition, and warranty iPhone 18 Pro : From $49.95 a month for 24 months via Apple Upgrade iPhone 18 Pro Max : From $54.12 a month for 24 months via Apple Upgrade Which to Choose? For iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max owners considering a replacement, the iPhone 18 Pro is a worthwhile upgrade. Three generations of changes bring improvements to the display, each camera on the device, battery life, charging, and sustained performance. Battery life is likely to be the strongest argument for most users, particularly if their current device no longer comfortably lasts through the day, while faster wired charging makes brief charging stops more useful. The camera upgrade is especially compelling for anyone who regularly takes photos or records video. Higher-resolution Ultra Wide and Telephoto cameras expand the options beyond the Main camera, while the variable aperture and Pro controls provide additional creative flexibility. The Camera Control also offers a dedicated way to launch the camera and adjust settings, although its value will depend on whether you prefer physical controls to the touchscreen. Owners of the smaller iPhone 15 Pro gain more native telephoto reach, moving from 3x to 4x, as well as the optical-quality 8x option. For iPhone 15 Pro Max owners, the camera moves from 5x to 4x, with the higher-resolution sensor enabling the additional 8x crop. For video creators, the accumulated changes are more consequential still. Higher-frame-rate 4K recording, ProRes RAW, Genlock, Apple Log 2, Dual Capture, and improved audio tools expand the range of work that can be completed on the device. The square front-camera sensor also makes landscape framing easier without rotating the phone, while Center Stage improves flexibility for group photos and video calls. The A20 Pro and vapor chamber cooling make the strongest performance case for users who play demanding games, record long video clips, or regularly push their device through sustained workloads. More RAM and additional AI processing hardware provide greater headroom for supported on-device tasks. For messaging, browsing, and other everyday activities, the A17 Pro remains capable, and access to iOS 27 , Apple Intelligence , or Visual Intelligence alone does not require replacing it. There are physical trade-offs to consider. Both newer models are larger and thicker, with weight increasing by 24 grams on the Pro and 28 grams on the Pro Max. The aluminum enclosure improves heat flow, but it may show dents and scratches more readily than the titanium frame. Users who chose the iPhone 15 Pro for its relatively compact size and light weight may find those changes less appealing, even with the improvements in screen size and battery life. If your iPhone 15 Pro still meets your needs and comfortably lasts through the day, there is not am urgent reason to replace it. It is still a capable device with support for iOS 27, Apple Intelligence, and Siri AI. A battery replacement may be worth considering if reduced health is your main complaint and you would otherwise be happy to keep the device. The upgrade becomes much easier to recommend when battery limitations coincide with a desire for the newer cameras, larger display, or improved performance. A discounted iPhone 17 Pro is another option if your priorities are the aluminum design, higher-resolution telephoto camera, square front-camera sensor, and vapor chamber cooling. Those upgrades arrived before this year's model. Paying more for the iPhone 18 Pro makes the clearest sense when you also want the variable aperture, Pro controls, A20 Pro, smaller Dynamic Island, and further improvements to battery life and charging. Pre-orders for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max opened on Saturday, September 12, with availability beginning Friday, September 18. Related Roundup: iPhone 18 Pro Buyer's Guide: iPhone 18 Pro (Buy Now) Related Forum: iPhone This article, iPhone 15 Pro vs. iPhone 18 Pro Buyer's Guide: Should You Upgrade? first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums

The six people sitting on the board of Tata Sons

Here's a look at the six-member board of Tata Sons, the holding Tata Group company commanding India's largest conglomerate.

Complaint seeks probe into alleged fake Garo identity claims

Shillong, Sep 17: Social activist Greneth M. Sangma has filed a petition before the South Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner demanding re-verification of his decade-old complaints alleging unlawful claims of Garo tribal identity. In his letter, Sangma urged the administration to revisit his complaints filed on August 13, 2014, March 12, 2015, and September 19, 2018, [] The post Complaint seeks probe into alleged fake Garo identity claims first appeared on Highland Post .

Northern Army commander reviews security, counter-terrorism operations in Poonch

Jammu, Sep 17: General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Northern Command Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma on Thursday visited Surankote sector in Jammu and Kashmir's border district of Poonch to review security arrangements and counter-terrorism efforts, the Army said. The northern commander's visit to Surankote comes three days after General Officer Commanding (GOC) of White Knight Corps Lt Gen P K Mishra visited different operational locations in the sector. Lt Gen Sharma visited Surankote sector to review the prevailing security posture and ongoing Counter-Terrorism efforts. The Army Commander was briefed on the ongoing operations, including sustained efforts towards focused targeting of terrorists, joint intelligence framework and enhanced synergy with sister agencies, the Udhampur-based Northern Command said in a post on X. It said the commander interacted with troops, boosting their morale as he commended them for their professional conduct of operations in the challenging terrain and weather conditions.

Assam CM disburses Rs 278 crore to 82,219 entrepreneurs, pushes youth towards self-reliance

Digital Desk | Guwahati, Sep 17 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday distributed financial assistance worth more than Rs 278 crore to young entrepreneurs under the Chief Ministers Atmanirbhar Asom Abhijan (CMAAA) 1.0 and 2.0, reaffirming the state governments focus on promoting entrepreneurship and economic self-reliance among the youth. Speaking at a financial assistance distribution ceremony held at the Jyoti-Bishnu Antarjatik Kala Mandir in Khanapara in Guwahati, Sarma said the initiative was aimed not merely at providing financial support but at encouraging young people to establish businesses and become successful entrepreneurs. Under the scheme, beneficiaries in the General Category receive Rs 2 lakh each, comprising a 50 per cent grant and a 50 per cent interest-free loan. Entrepreneurs under the Professional Category are eligible for Rs 5 lakh, structured under the same funding model. According to programme details, a total of 82,219 entrepreneurs are covered under CMAAA 1.0 and 2.0. The first phase includes 9,552 general-category and 26 professional-category beneficiaries, while the second phase covers 72,447 general-category and 194 professional-category entrepreneurs. The government is distributing more than Rs 196 crore under CMAAA 1.0, while the allocation for CMAAA 2.0 stands at over Rs 182 crore. Sarma said the government had previously provided Rs 75,000 during the initial phase and Rs 25,000 in a subsequent phase to support young beneficiaries pursuing entrepreneurship. However, several beneficiaries failed to meet the eligibility requirements for further assistance. Of approximately 13,000 beneficiaries, around 9,552 met the requirements, while nearly 4,000 did not qualify. The Chief Minister attributed some unsuccessful cases to beneficiaries taking up jobs and discontinuing their businesses. The initiative also includes skill development training and marketing support to help entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses and improve their prospects for long-term sustainability. Industries, Commerce and Public Enterprises Minister Bimal Borah, officials and participating entrepreneurs attended the ceremony.

PM Modi taking India towards league of developed nations: Chandrababu Naidu

Digital Desk | Amaravati, Sep 17 (IANS) Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said on Thursday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is taking India towards the league of developed nations. Participating in the VaranasiVadnagar Seva Sankalp Abhiyan programme in Varanasi on Thursday to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modis 25 years in public service, he said PM Modi believes that serving the people is serving the nation. According to a release by the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) here, Chandrababu Naidu called Kashi the karmabhoomi of PM Modi, who has been elected to the Lok Sabha from Varanasi three times. Kashi has not merely elected a leader for Varanasi, but has given the country a leader, he added. The TDP chief, who began his speech with a few Hindi words, said the country was changing and progressing. The Chief Minister claimed that under Prime Minister Modis leadership, 25 crore people have come out of poverty and 80 crore people are receiving free foodgrains. Through schemes such as Jal Jeevan Mission and AMRUT, drinking-water facilities have been extended to four crore households, he said. PM-KISAN is benefiting 11 crore farmers, with funds being transferred directly into their bank accounts without intermediaries, he said. At a time when several countries were facing crises, Prime Minister Modi provided leadership that protected the interests of 140 crore Indians, the Chief Minister said. Chandrababu Naidu said Prime Minister Modi encouraged the production of 200 crore COVID vaccine doses and India supplied COVID vaccines free of cost to 101 countries, describing it as an expression of humanitarian concern. Policies such as Atmanirbhar Bharat and Vocal for Global strengthened the Make in India concept. India had earlier depended on imports for defence equipment, but has now reached a stage where it is exporting defence equipment, he said. The Prime Minister has understood emerging technologies such as space, drones, quantum technology, semiconductors and robotics, and is creating opportunities for the youth through them, Chandrababu said. The Chief Minister said that while youth earlier largely depended on employment, India now has 2.20 lakh start-ups, enabling young people to become job creators. India ranks third among countries with strong start-up ecosystems, he said. Naidu described the Prime Ministers initiatives for womens welfare and empowerment as significant, citing Beti BachaoBeti Padhao and Lakhpati Didi. Ujjwala provides access to clean fuel, Mudra facilitates access to finance, and self-help groups are strengthening confidence and economic participation among women. The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, providing 33 per cent reservation for women in legislatures, would be a game changer, he said. Chandrababu Naidu said India had emerged as a strong global power and cited Operation Sindoor as an example of the countrys response to security challenges. He congratulated Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for the conduct of Operation Sindoor. Recalling his own experience of confronting Naxalism, he said the country had now made significant progress in eliminating Naxalism and Maoism. The Chief Minister praised the completion of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, saying that a long-pending aspiration had been realised. He said the Andhra Pradesh government proposes to construct a Lord Venkateswara temple in Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama. He appealed to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to allot 10 acres of land for the construction of the Venkateswara temple. The VaranasiVadnagar Seva Yatra was launched as part of the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, which connects Varanasi, Prime Minister Modis parliamentary constituency, with Vadnagar, his birthplace. Earlier, Chandrababu Naidu offered prayers to Lord Kasiviswanath along with Union Ministers Rajnath Singh, Chirag Paswan, and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

EPFO wage ceiling hike to expand social security net, strengthen retirement protection: Industry

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 17 (IANS) The governments decision to raise the monthly wage ceiling for mandatory coverage under the Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 has been welcomed by industry and labour representatives, who said the move would widen the social security net, support formal employment and strengthen long-term financial protection for workers. FICCI Director General Jyoti Vij said the revision had been overdue, pointing out that the previous wage ceiling was set in 2014, while wage levels, incomes and the structure of employment have changed significantly since then. Speaking to IANS, Vij said the increase to Rs 25,000 was in line with changing economic conditions and would bring around 51 lakh additional employees under the formal social security framework. She said the move could contribute to the formalisation of employment while helping companies retain employees and strengthening retirement security. Vij noted that access to provident fund, pension and other social security benefits can improve employee morale and job stability, creating benefits for both workers and employers. When employees have confidence that they will have financial security after retirement, they are likely to remain more committed to their work and stay longer with an organisation, Vij said. The decision was also welcomed by the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS). Girish Chandra Arya, All India Secretary of the organisation and in-charge of the banking sector, said trade unions had been demanding an increase in the EPFO wage ceiling for a long time. Arya said the Rs 15,000 threshold fixed in September 2014 had become inadequate considering the current economic environment and changing wage structures. He described the revision after nearly 12 years as an important step for employees. He said the impact of the decision could extend beyond the immediate beneficiaries, as the governments efforts to promote formal employment and bring workers from the unorganised sector into the organised workforce could bring more employees under schemes such as EPF, ESI and bonus benefits in the future. Arya also emphasised that the move should not be viewed merely as an increase in provident fund coverage. According to him, broader EPFO coverage would also strengthen workers access to long-term pension and insurance protection.

'UPI Tax' Row: CPI(ML) Demands Rollback Of New MDR

CPI(ML) Liberation general secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya has strongly criticised the newly introduced Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on select UPI transactions, labelling it a UPI tax and demanding its immediate rollback. He drew parallels with demonetisation, arguing that the new framework would negatively impact small shopkeepers, MSMEs, and ordinary citizens by increasing prices.

Farmers continue stir demanding full crop loan waiver and penal interest

The protesters are demanding halt to recovery proceedings by cooperative societies; waiver of dues up to March 31; and writing off interest and penal interest

Asian Games 2026: Shreyas Iyer Under Pressure After UK Setbacks, Harmanpreet Kaur

Cricket at the Asian Games enters another chapter in 2026, with India heading into the competition with contrasting storylines in the mens and womens events. While Harmanpreet Kaurs womens team arrives after a commanding Asia Cup campaign, Shreyas Iyers men will be looking to put recent T20I struggles behind them. Cricket was first introduced at [] The post Asian Games 2026: Shreyas Iyer Under Pressure After UK Setbacks, Harmanpreet Kaurs Team High On Confidence appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

Rekha Gupta Performs Hawan At Khatu Shyam Mandir On PM Modis Birthday

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta performed a 108-Kundiya Hawan at the Shree Khatu Shyam Mandir on GT Karnal Road on the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modis 76th birthday.

Members of Parliament offer prayers for PM Modi on his birthday

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 17 (IANS) Several BJP MPs extended warm greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his birthday and visited places of worship to pray for his health and success. BJP MP Sambit Patra visited Puris Jagannath Temple, offered prayers, and performed puja. Fellow party MP Tarun Chugh visited the Golden Temple in Amritsar and offered prayers, wishing the Prime Minister a good and healthy life. Speaking to IANS, Patra said: On the occasion of our dearly beloved Prime Minister Modi's birthday, we offered our prayers to Lord Jagannath and performed puja. We prayed for the PMs long and healthy life. We are all part of his family who have benefited from various policies launched by PM Modi. Some of us have benefited from Ayushman, some through Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, some from Ujjwala, and some from Ujala. More than 80 crore people have benefited. Thus, we prayed for his long, healthy life. The people of Puri prayed at the Almightys feet that Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains healthy. I would urge others to do the same. Similarly, Chugh visited Sri Harmandir Sahib, where he offered prayers for PM Modis long life and good health. Speaking to IANS, he said, Sri Harmandir Sahib always guides and blesses all of us. We draw strength from here, which allows us to move forward. Today is Prime Minister Narendra Modis birthday. Acknowledging PM Modis contribution, MP Chugh said: He has devoted his entire life to service, to the progress of the country and to ensuring that Indias name shines across the world. Today, 25 years of his service as a head of government have been completed, and every moment of these 25 years has been dedicated to serving and advancing the nation, he added. Praising PM Modis achievements as a leader, Chugh said that owing to his policies, the nation has recorded a 7.8 GDP growth. Today we are the worlds 4th most powerful nation (in economic terms). He also added that nearly 18-19 crore households have water supply and 6 crore people have been given homes. Under PM Modis leadership, India has emerged as a powerhouse and nearly 100 crore people are benefiting from all the welfare schemes launched by the Modi government. Chugh further said it was his desire that PM Modis vision of Viksit Bharat is fulfilled, and that Punjab also gets developed under Viksit Bharat, and that is why the people of Punjab are praying to the Almighty for the Prime Ministers good health and long life. suruchi/vd

34-year-old woman told Rs 9 crore sent to her from abroad was stuck at customs; she paid for its release, lost Rs 1.2 crore to fraud

A 34-year-old West Delhi woman allegedly lost around Rs 1.2 crore after fraudsters told her a diplomatic parcel containing 7 lakh was stuck at customs. The alleged scam continued for nearly a year, with fake bank, high commission and international officials demanding customs, tax and transaction payments while promising a parcel, cheque and bank transfer.

AITUC calls for periodic revision of wage ceiling under EPFO

A day after the government announced a revision in wage ceiling under the Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) to Rs 25,000 per month from Rs 15,000, the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) AITUC demanding the wage ceiling to be fixed at Rs 30,000 per month to keep pace with increase in workers earnings.

Over 13K Junior Teachers Stage Mass Protest in Bhubaneswar Demanding Job Regularisation

Lower PMG turned into a massive demonstration ground as nearly 13,000 primary and upper-primary junior teachers from across all 30 districts of Odisha converged on Mahatma Gandhi Marg for a sit-in. The agitation, organised under the banner of the Odisha Junior Teachers Association, erupted over administrative delays in executing official notifications regarding the regularisation of [] The post Over 13K Junior Teachers Stage Mass Protest in Bhubaneswar Demanding Job Regularisation appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

The NSE IPO investor playbook: Should you subscribe to the mega issue or pick rival BSE instead?

The NSE IPO has sparked a valuation debate as investors weigh subscribing at the issue price against waiting for a post-listing correction or considering BSE. With NSE commanding a dominant share of Indias equity markets, analysts point to its strong financials and scale, while flagging rich valuations and risks around options volumes.

India goes for big push towards self-reliance in semiconductors

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 17 (IANS) Indias semiconductor story has advanced rapidly in a short period. In 2021, the country had no commercial chip plant. By 2026, 12 units have been approved, and five are in production. Students across hundreds of colleges are now designing chips. Semicon 2.0 is the natural next chapter in this account. It does not begin afresh -- it takes a functioning ecosystem and completes it, according to a factsheet issued by the government on Wednesday on the occasion of the 'SEMICON India 2026' event. Semiconductors form the core of modern electronic systems as smartphones, computers, medical equipment, automobiles, defence systems, satellites and data centres use semiconductor-based components. Establishing a strong semiconductor ecosystem is, therefore, essential for technological resilience, economic security, and national self-reliance. Building on the successful implementation of Semicon 1.0, the Union Cabinet approved Semicon 2.0 on July 15, 2026 with an outlay of Rs 1,27,500 crore. While the first phase laid the foundation for India's semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem, Semicon 2.0 advances the next phase through six strategic pillars. These include research and development, chip design, machines and materials, setting up more fabs, talent development, and further strengthening the ATMP/OSAT industry, the factsheet states. It highlights that India is witnessing rapidly rising semiconductor demand. It is projected to reach $110 billion by FY2030 and exceed $200 billion by FY2035, while domestic manufacturing remains at a nascent stage. India spent almost $150 billion on semiconductor product imports during FY17FY25. Imports grew at a compound annual growth rate of 23 per cent during this period. If this trend continues, annual imports could reach $240 billion by 2035. Building a comprehensive semiconductor ecosystem is, therefore, an urgent national priority, the factsheet states. Semicon 2.0 rests on six pillars: design, machines and materials, setting up new fabs, further advanced packaging, research and talent development. Its purpose is to build the complete chip value chain within the country, and not merely its closing stages. This effort carries India towards supply chain resilience, strategic autonomy and high-value employment in a technology that now underpins every modern industry. The global semiconductor market grew at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5 per cent between 2014 and 2024. It is projected to grow at 8.5 per cent over the next 510 years. However, recent disruptions have exposed vulnerabilities in the interconnected global semiconductor value chain. Geopolitical tensions have further highlighted the risks of supply dependence. The road ahead is demanding. Chip manufacturing ranks among the most complex industries in the world. It requires patience, precision, and steady policy support. Semicon 2.0 provides that support for the long term. For citizens, the gain will be quiet but real. Devices will be manufactured more fully within India. Critical systems will depend less upon distant supply chains. Young engineers will find high-value work closer to home, the factsheet said.

Telangana ACB arrests two police officials for taking Rs 5 lakh bribe

Digital Desk | Hyderabad, Sep 17 (IANS) Telanganas Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has arrested two police officers for demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 5 lakh to do an official favour, officials said on Thursday. In an operation conducted around midnight, the ACB sleuths caught Dyapa Gnanender Reddy, Sub-Inspector of Police, Keesara Police Station, Malkajgiri Police Commissionerate, red-handed when he was accepting a Rs 5 lakh bribe. The anti-graft agency said the Sub-Inspector was accepting the bribe on the instruction of Arkapally Anjaneyulu, Inspector of Police/SHO, Keesara Police Station. The ACB said in a release on Thursday that the accused officers demanded and accepted the bribe from the complainant for granting station bail and not harassing the complainant and his friend in the case already registered at Keesara Police Station. Both the Inspector and Sub-Inspector have been arrested. They will be produced before the Principal Special Judge for SPE & ACB cases, Nampally, for judicial remand. The case is under investigation, the ACB said. The complainant had approached the ACB after the officials were allegedly harassing him and demanding money. There were also allegations that the complainant was repeatedly asked to bring biryani and cold drinks over the past few days. The officials had allegedly demanded a bribe of Rs 10 lakh. A deal was struck for Rs 5 lakh. The Inspector/SHO had given the responsibility of accepting the bribe amount to the Sub-Inspector. The anti-graft agency laid a trap and caught Sub-Inspector Gnanender Reddy when he was accepting the bribe amount in a car near Keesara lake while he was on Ganesh immersion duty. On seeing the ACB officials, the SI tried to flee but was apprehended. Following the trap, ACB officials conducted searches at Keesara Police Station and officials' residences. The operation was conducted by ACB City Range-I under the supervision of DSP Majid Ali Khan. The ACB has said that in case of a demand for a bribe by any public servant, they can contact the ACB toll-free number 1064 to take action as per law. The name and details of the victim/complainant will be kept secret.

CM Fadnavis welcomes Jarange Patil ending hunger strike, says 12 out of his 13 demands accepted

Digital Desk | Sambhajinagar, Sep 17 (IANS) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday expressed relief and satisfaction after Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange Patil ended his hunger strike on its 20th day. Addressing media, he welcomed the development, noting that the government had proactively engaged with the activist to resolve the standoff peacefully. We are glad that Manoj Jarange Patil has called off his hunger strike. We had urged him to do so. Out of his 13 demands, 12 have been accepted by the government. One demand could not be fulfilled due to legal constraints, which was duly communicated to him, he stated. The Chief Minister assured that the commitments made by the cabinet sub-committee would be strictly fulfilled. The state government will hold necessary meetings and take required administrative steps to implement these promises. Reaffirming the states commitment to Maratha community, Fadnavis emphasized that our doors remain open and claimed that no previous administration has taken as many concrete decisions for the welfare of the Maratha community as the current government. Extending appreciation to key leaders including Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil and legislator Prasad Lad for their mediation, CM Fadnavis highlighted that the agitation concluded peacefully without disturbing upcoming festive celebrations. Earlier, Jarange Patil on Thursday at Patoda in Beed district announced the suspension of his 20-day hunger strike following his discussion with a government delegation comprising Ministers Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil and Dadaji Bhuse, MLAs Prasad Lad and Suresh Dhas, and the Beed District Collector. Following the talks, Jarange Patil granted the government a 90-day deadline, demanding the implementation of the Satara Gazette within three months. He warned that if the government betrays them, he will march to Mumbai. Announcing the suspension of his hunger strike, he clarified that the agitation would continue, asserting that the battle would not stop until it succeeded. Giving a three-month ultimatum for the Satara Gazette implementation, he stated that antagonising the Maratha community is unacceptable. He remarked that despite any mistakes by Minister Vikhe Patil, people should treat him with affection, and expressed similar sentiments toward DCM Eknath Shinde. He added that he would not stay silent if ministers criticised them and noted that officials who previously avoided talks had finally come to negotiate, emphasising that the community's dignity is more important than reservations. The government delegation gave him assurances including implementation of the Satara, Kolhapur, Pune, and Aundh Gazettes within three months by issuing a Government Resolution (GR), issuance of a revised GR to grant Kunbi certificates in accordance with the Hyderabad Gazette, continued validation of certificates issued per the Hyderabad Gazette, no reduction in the 58 lakh Kunbi records found by the Shinde Committee and validation of the revoked Kunbi certificates of four elected representatives from Marathwada.

Anil Kapoor credits daughters Sonam Kapoor and Rhea Kapoor for his success in life: Having two daughters is a double bonus

Anil Kapoor is set to begin a new chapter with India Ke Top 1%: The Anil Kapoor Show, which premieres on September 19 at 8 PM on Star Plus and JioHotstar. Ahead of the shows premiere, the actor reflected on his own experiences of balancing a demanding career with family responsibilities during a conversation with one of the contestants. The contestant shared that he had decided to take a break from work after realising that his family needed more of his time. His experience led Anil Kapoor to recall a particularly difficult phase of his own life, when his professional commitments kept him away from an important family moment. Speaking about the importance of making time for family, Anil Kapoor said, Bahut log kehte hain ki main apni family ke liye kaam karta hoon, lekin main bhi ab yeh seekh raha hoon ki family ko waqt dena kitna zaroori hai. Hamare jo sons-in-law hain, woh family aur work ke liye proper time nikaalte hain. Jab main aapki umar ka tha aur Rhea paida hui thi, main hospital late pahuncha tha. Main aaj tak khud ko forgive nahi kar saka. Rhea ki delivery ho gayi thi aur main kuch waqt baad wahan pahuncha. Main poori raat shoot kar raha tha aur meri aankh lag gayi. Jab main utha, tab tak Rhea was born. Having a daughter is a bonus, aur meri do daughters hain, Sonam aur Rhea, toh mere liye double bonus hai. The actors comments highlighted how his long career sometimes came at the cost of spending time with his family. He also acknowledged the way his sons-in-law manage their professional commitments while making time for their families. At 69, Anil Kapoor continues to remain active across films and television. With India Ke Top 1%, he will take on a new role as the host of a quiz-based show, where contestants will compete by testing their logic, observation and general understanding. The format will also allow viewers to participate from home. Through JioHotstar, audiences can Play Along and stand a chance to win prizes, including Smart TVs and smartphones, while attempting to see if they can make it to Indias Top 1%. India Ke Top 1%: The Anil Kapoor Show premieres on September 19 at 8 PM on Star Plus and JioHotstar. Also Read : Ganesh Acharya on his first collaboration with Anil Kapoor, I had wanted to work with Anil sir for a long time