The 8th Pay Commission may consider raising the leave encashment limit for central government employees from 300 to 450 days. Know how the proposal could boost retirement payouts, what unions are demanding and whether the change has been approved.
CBI Arrests Two ED Officials In Rs 5 Lakh Bribery Case
The CBI laid a trap and allegedly caught Manoj Dwivedi red-handed while demanding and accepting Rs 5 lakh on behalf of the Enforcement Officer for extending favour to the complainant's father in the case.
'Does S*xual Abuse Mean Nothing?: NBC Reporter Corners Trump Over Ramaswamy vs Acton; He Snaps
Donald Trump clashed sharply with an NBC reporter after she pressed him over sexual-abuse allegations connected to the Ohio governors race involving Vivek Ramaswamy and Amy Acton.The reporter challenged Trump directly:Do the sexual abuse allegations mean nothing to you, sir?Trump immediately pushed back, telling her to slow down and demanding to know which network she worked for.
Health consciousness cannot be reduced to visiting a doctor only after illness has become serious. It is a daily responsibility shaped by the food we eat, the air we breathe, the habits we cultivate and the choices made by families, schools, workplaces and governments. For Kashmir, where changing lifestyles and growing pressures on public health are becoming increasingly visible, creating a culture of prevention is no longer optional. The rise in lifestyle-related diseases should compel society to rethink its understanding of health. Irregular diets, excessive consumption of processed food, lack of physical activity, tobacco use, stress and inadequate sleep are gradually turning into serious public-health concerns. These problems often develop silently and are addressed only when symptoms become difficult to ignore. By then, treatment is more expensive, more demanding and less effective than timely prevention. Health consciousness must therefore begin at home. Families play a decisive role in shaping eating habits and attitudes towards exercise, cleanliness and medical care. Children who grow up understanding the value of nutritious food, outdoor activity and personal hygiene are more likely to carry these habits into adulthood. Schools, too, should treat health education as an essential part of learning rather than an occasional lecture or campaign. Basic knowledge about nutrition, mental health, first aid and disease prevention can save lives. The responsibility, however, does not rest with individuals alone. Public institutions must make healthy choices easier and affordable. Urban areas need safe walking paths, open spaces and playgrounds. Local authorities must improve sanitation, waste management and drinking-water quality. Food safety regulations require strict enforcement, especially in schools, markets and restaurants. Awareness without supportive infrastructure will remain an incomplete response. Mental health deserves equal attention. Anxiety, depression, loneliness and emotional exhaustion are often dismissed or concealed because of stigma. This silence prevents many people from seeking help. A truly health-conscious society must recognise mental well-being as part of overall health and create spaces where people can discuss their difficulties without fear of judgement. Regular screening is another important component of preventive care. People should not wait for severe symptoms before checking blood pressure, blood sugar, vision or other basic health indicators. Such screenings are especially important for the elderly and those with a family history of chronic illness. Government health programmes must reach rural and remote areas, where distance, cost and limited information often delay treatment. Health consciousness is ultimately a matter of public culture. It is reflected in clean surroundings, responsible driving, safe workplaces, balanced diets and compassion towards those who need care. Hospitals are necessary, but a strong health system cannot be built only around hospitals. It must also prevent illness before it reaches the hospital door. Kashmir needs a sustained health movementone that combines awareness with action, personal discipline with public accountability, and modern medicine with community participation. A healthier society is not created through slogans. It is built through informed choices repeated every day.
Rewriting Indias farm story: A decade of Transformation
When Honorable Prime Minister assumed office in 2014, agriculture and farmer welfare were placed at the heart of Indias development agenda. Since 2015, this commitment has increasingly translated into a broader transformationfrom improving production and farm incomes to building an agriculture sector that is productive, resilient, technology-driven and sustainable. The Prime Minister has repeatedly emphasised that For a Viksit Bharat, Indian agriculture must also be developed. He has also called for India not merely to meet its own food requirements but to emerge as a global food supplier. Adding to Lal Bahadur Shastri's call of Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan and Atal Bihari Vajpayee's Jai Vigyan, the Prime Minister gave the nation Jai Anusandhan. With that phrase he placed research and innovation at the heart of India's farm future. Those words were more than a statement of policy direction; they embodied a pragmatic vision whose wisdom and foresight were unmistakably vindicated by the evidence that emerged a decade later. From Food Security to a New Agricultural Paradigm This vision represents a decisive shift in the way we must look at Indian agriculture. The Green Revolution gave India food security. Today, our responsibility is to build the foundations of nutritional security, farmer prosperity, resource security and global competitiveness.Indias agricultural journey is one of remarkable achievement. From a country once dependent on food imports, India became self-sufficient in staple cereals within a few decades. The Green Revolution was powered by science, improved seeds, irrigation, infrastructure, institutional credit, extension and policy support. It demonstrated what can happen when scientific capability and political commitment converge around a national objective. But agriculture cannot remain frozen in the priorities of the past. The aspirations of our farmers have changed, the consumption patterns of our citizens have changed, markets have changed and the climate itself is changing. A Decade of Broad-Based Agricultural Growth The transformation underway since 2015 is therefore significant. The years 199596 and 201415 have been marked as structural breakpoints because they mark distinct phases in the evolution of Indian agriculture. The first reflects the gradual impact of economic liberalisation, greater market integration, changing consumption patterns and the slowdown in cereal productivity growth, while the second marks the emergence of a more diversified, technology-enabled and resilience-oriented agricultural system driven by irrigation expansion, digital platforms, market reforms and increasing focus on sustainability and climate adaptation. Agricultural growth, which averaged about 2.7 per cent during 19671995 and about 3.0 per cent during 19962014, accelerated to around 4.5 per cent during 20152025 (Food grains at 8.4MT/annum, Fruits and Vegetables at 7.6MT/annum and Milk at Mt/annum). The last two years have witnessed an exceptional increase in food grain production, with the increase recorded at 22.1MT per annum, significantly higher than that observed during the preceding years.. This achievement reflects the combined impact of stronger CentreState coordination, effective convergence of programmes, adoption of climate-resilient technologies, focused investments, and enhanced support to farmers. More importantly, this growth has become broader, drawing strength not only from cereals but also from horticulture, dairy, fisheries, poultry and other high-value activities. This is the agriculture that will power the next phase of Indias development. Our objective must no longer be defined simply as producing more. We must produce more with lessless water, less land, less energy and fewer avoidable inputswhile producing better quality, safer and more nutritious food.The transformation in Indian consumption itself provides a powerful signal. In rural India, cereals accounted for about 57 per cent of food expenditure in 197273; by 202223, this had fallen to around 11 per cent. At the same time, the share of milk and milk products, fruits, vegetables, eggs, meat and fish rose from about 20 per cent to nearly 48 per cent. Urban consumption has followed a similar trajectory. Our farms must respond to this new India.This means greater emphasis on pulses, oilseeds, fruits, vegetables, dairy, fisheries, poultry and other high-value commodities. It means moving from a narrow concept of food security towards nutrition security. It means enabling farmers to participate in value chains where the real economic opportunity increasingly lies in grading, processing, packaging, branding, logistics and exports. Building the Architecture for Farmer-Centric Growth The Government of India has already created an important architecture for this transition. The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana is promoting efficient water use. The Soil Health Card initiative has placed soil testing and balanced nutrient management at the centre of farm decisionmaking. PM-KUSUM is linking agriculture with renewable energy. Farmer Producer Organisations are strengthening aggregation and bargaining power. e-NAM is connecting agricultural markets digitally, while the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, PM Kisan SAMPADA Yojana and PMFME are strengthening post-harvest infrastructure and processing. These initiatives must now converge into a single farmer-centric value chainfrom seed to soil,farm to market and laboratory to livelihood. Technology will be central to this transformation. Indian agricultural research has already moved beyond the traditional objective of simply increasing yields. Between 2014 and 2025, 3,236 crop varieties were released, compared with 1,540 during 20032014. A large proportion of recent varieties have been designed with climate resilience in mind, while biofortification is receiving greater attention. The next agricultural revolution must therefore be a revolution of precision, resilience and knowledge.Artificial intelligence, remote sensing, drones, genomics, biotechnology, digital advisory systems and geospatial technologies can help farmers make better decisions about sowing, irrigation, nutrients, pests, weather and markets. Digital Agriculture initiatives, AgriStack and AI-enabled advisory platforms can make agricultural services more targeted and accessible. But technology will deliver results only when it reaches the farmer in a simple, affordable and locally relevant form. From Laboratory to Last Mile The role of research and extension is consequently becoming even more important. Every rupee invested in agricultural research generates substantial economic returns, while extension converts scientific knowledge into practical improvements on farms. We must strengthen the connection between our laboratories, universities, Krishi Vigyan Kendras, startups, private innovators and farmers.At the same time, we must confront the resource challenge.India cannot indefinitely expand agricultural production by expanding the use of water, fertiliser, energy and land. Groundwater depletion, soil degradation, climate variability and extreme weather events demand a new production paradigm. The evidence shows that the recent phase of agricultural growth has combined higher productivity with greater stability, reflecting the growing importance of diversification, resource efficiency, risk management and climate resilience. This is why sustainability is not an environmental luxury; it is an economic necessity for the farmer. Our policies must encourage efficient use of every unit of water, nutrient and energy. Research should prioritise climate-resilient varieties, water- and nutrient-efficient crops, improved soil biology, integrated pest management, conservation agriculture and precision farming. Pulses and oilseeds deserve particular attention because increasing their productivity is essential for strengthening India's nutritional and economic self-reliance. Efficient Markets and global value chains A farmer who produces efficiently must also be able to sell profitably. Agricultural markets, storage, cold chains, logistics, grading, processing and digital platforms must grow alongside production. The expansion of agricultural output and diversification into perishable commodities have created new requirements for efficient aggregation and market connectivity. Farmer collectives, cooperatives and FPOs can play a transformative role by reducing transaction costs, improving bargaining power and enabling farmers to participate in organised value chains.India must increasingly look beyond the mandi to the marketplace of the world. Our ambition should be to develop Indian agricultural products with globally recognised quality, traceability, safety and branding. The next phase must connect farmers not merely with domestic consumers but with international value chains. This will create employment, encourage rural entrepreneurship and enable a greater share of the value generated by agriculture to remain in rural India.But this transformation cannot be delivered by the Union Government alone. Agriculture is a shared national responsibility. States, local governments, research institutions, FPOs, cooperatives, private enterprises, financial institutions and civil society must work together. The future requires convergence across agriculture, water, energy, food processing, nutrition, climate, trade and rural development. This is also where the spirit of cooperative federalism becomes critical. India's agro-ecological diversity demands solutions that are local in implementation but national in vision.The journey from Viksit Krishi to Viksit Bharat will ultimately be measured not merely by tonnes produced, but by the quality of life of our farmers. A prosperous farmer is the foundation of a prosperous rural economy. A resilient farm is the foundation of resilient food systems. And a competitive agricultural value chain is the foundation of a globally competitive Bharat.We therefore need to move confidently from the paradigm of how much can we produce? to how efficiently, sustainably and profitably can we produce? The Green Revolution secured India's food future. The next agricultural transformation must secure India's prosperity, nutrition, natural resources and global leadership.Honorable Prime Minister has given the nation a clear direction: Indian agriculture must become an important pillar of Viksit Bharat. Our task is to turn that vision into actionthrough science, innovation, infrastructure, markets, institutions and, above all, by placing the Indian farmer at the centre of every agricultural policy.As we move towards Viksit Bharat 2047, the farmer must not merely be a beneficiary of development. The farmer must be an architect of India's developed future.That is the agricultural transformation India must now pursueand that is the foundation on which the India of 2047 will stand. (Author is Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, and Rural Development, Government of India. Views are personal. Courtesy: PIB)
CBI arrests two ED officials for demanding Rs 5 lakh bribe in Lucknow
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CJP leaders appear before Delhi court for surety verification; asked to return on November 3
Saurav Das, Ashutosh Ranka and Ajinkya Shinde appear before the Special Executive Magistrate at Delhis Mandir Marg police station
Cong seeks suspension of ropeway project
By Our Reporter SHILLONG, Oct 23: The State Congress on Friday questioned the environmental assessment and public consultation process for the proposed Shillong Peak ropeway project, demanding that it be kept in abeyance or scrapped unless comprehensive studies establish its environmental and social viability. State Congress secretary Manuel Badwar said the government had failed to []
Congress MP Imran Masood detained during Jamia protests as students demand union polls
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 23 (IANS) The Delhi Police on Friday detained Congress MP Imran Masood and Samajwadi Party MP Mohibbullah Nadvi while attempting to meet students demanding the restoration of the Jamia Millia Islamia's elected students' union amid the ongoing student protest at the university in Delhi. The agitation, which began on October 12, has centred on the announcement of an election schedule for the Jamia Millia Islamia Students' Union (JMISU), withdrawal of disciplinary action against protesters and restoration of democratic representation on campus. The controversy widened after slogans including Free Kashmir and Free Sharjeel Imam were reportedly found written on campus walls. Jamia Millia Islamia has been without an elected students' union since 2006, when the body was dissolved. The last elections were held in 2005. Students began an indefinite hunger strike on October 12, demanding the restoration of the union and an official notification announcing the election schedule for the 2026-27 academic session. Their grievances extend beyond student representation. Protesters have raised concerns about academic facilities, attendance policies, hostel conditions, scholarships and research stipends. They said that an elected union would provide a platform to raise these concerns and participate in decisions affecting student welfare. Congress MP Imran Masood, who visited the campus to support the protesters, rejected slogans advocating the division of India. Look, we do not support any slogan that talks about breaking up India. We will not support those who talk about breaking up India under any circumstances. Kashmir is an integral part of India and will always remain so. Attempts are being made to derail this entire movement through these posters, he said. On the poster controversy, Masood alleged that the BJP itself puts up posters before creating a stir over them. He reiterated that Kashmir was an integral part of India. Congress MP Imran Masood arrived at Jamia on Friday to join the protesting students but was detained by police. Backing their demands, Masood questioned why the university had not restored the students' union. The students demands are justified. Why is the student union not being reinstated? These students are the future of the country. Why are attempts being made to crush the future of the country? he said. Masood also expressed solidarity with students facing disciplinary action. I can even give my life for my children. These are my children and the future of my country. Attempts are being made to crush their rights. Students have been expelled from the university. Why is the student union not being reinstated? What exactly is the reason you do not want to restore the student union? he said. Separately, Samajwadi Party MP Mohibbullah Nadvi alleged that police detained him while he was travelling to meet the protesters. Nadvi, a Jamia alumnus, said he considered supporting the students his duty. He was later released. Visuals of his detention also surfaced on social media. In a letter to Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi on October 21, CPI(M) MP John Brittas highlighted the absence of an elected union for nearly two decades. He cited constitutional provisions guaranteeing freedom of speech and association, University Grants Commission guidelines on students entitlements and the Lyngdoh Committee recommendations on student elections. Hunger-striking student Jasim Ali refuted the allegations and blamed the university administration for the incident, alleging that elements responsible for writing the slogans had been planted among protesters to disrupt their peaceful agitation. We completely refute this thing. And this thing that has happened, the Jamia administration is entirely at fault. This is not our job; it is the Jamia administration's job to stop such mischievous elements. But they themselves have been planted among us by the Jamia admin so that our peaceful protest can be ended, Ali said, according to IANS. Reiterating the protesters demands, Ali said their agitation was focused on restoring the students union and announcing its election schedule. Our only demand is the restoration of the student union and its schedule, and we are standing firm on that. Otherwise, these things being talked about are baseless, pre-planned by the Jamia admin, he said, according to IANS. The university administration has condemned controversial slogans found on campus walls, including VC go back. It has begun removing the writing using chemical agents and attempting to identify those responsible. A university official said strict action would be taken against those involved. The official also alleged that some CCTV cameras had been tampered with and their wiring disconnected or damaged in areas where the slogans appeared. The central disagreement remains unresolved: while the university has initiated a constitution-drafting process and promised a review of disciplinary action, protesters insist that these measures cannot substitute for an immediate election notification.
Free Kashmir, Bring Islam Back' Slogans Found On Jamia Millia Islamia Campus Walls, Probe On
Slogans such as Free Kashmir and Bring Islam Back have been spotted painted on the walls of Jamia Millia Islamia in New Delhi amid ongoing agitation by the students demanding reinstatement of the students' union. Apart from these slogans, there
Ake Loba's Brace Hand East Bengal Easy Win Over Inter Kashi In ISL
Ake Loba scored a brace as East Bengal FC produced a commanding performance to thrash Inter Kashi 5-1 in an Indian Super League match in Pune on Friday
Was Gyanu Told To Lie Low Until Protests Subside?
So far in India, cockroaches and other insects have not ransacked shopping malls and standalone luxury stores in and around Delhi. The protesters one sees battling police brutality at protest sites, resemble bonafide students and young activists demanding basic rights
Emerging Trends in Entrepreneurship Among Indian College Students
The GUESSS India 2025 report from IIT Mandi reveals a growing entrepreneurial spirit among Indian college students, with 22% already starting businesses and 43% aspiring to do so. This shift indicates a move away from traditional employment towards entrepreneurship, with significant interest in IT and digital sectors. The report highlights the importance of mentorship and networks in fostering this trend, while also addressing gender disparities in business launches. Explore the full insights from this comprehensive survey to understand the evolving landscape of student entrepreneurship in India.
Jhota Murder: Family's Standoff Continues, Demands CM, DGP Quit
The family of slain anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa continues to refuse a post-mortem of his body, demanding the resignation of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and DGP Gaurav Yadav. Despite the government agreeing to a CBI probe, compensation, and other concessions, the family and a joint action committee insist their key demands, including the resignations, have not been met, prolonging the standoff.
1st ODI: Pratika And Shafalis Chase Was A Masterclass, Says Smriti After India's Win
Smriti Mandhana: India captain Smriti Mandhana praised Pratika Rawal and Shafali Verma for their commanding batting performances, describing their match-winning partnership as a masterclass after the World Champions registered a nine-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the first ODI of the three-match series at the BCA Stadium in Kotambi, Vadodara, on Friday. Rawal struck an unbeaten 100 off 96 balls, while Shafali remained not out on 64 off just 34 deliveries as India chased down Zimbabwes target of 198 in 27.1 overs to take a 1-0 lead in the series. Praising the duos approach during the chase, Mandhana said their performance was a standout feature of Indias dominant outing. Yes, we can tidy up our fielding; a few catches went down our way, but otherwise, again Shafali and Pratika went about that chase, and it was a masterclass, Mandhana said after the match. Rawal anchored the chase with an assured unbeaten century, striking 15 boundaries, while Shafali provided the aggression with five fours and four sixes. The pair ensured India maintained control after Mandhanas dismissal for 32 off 34 balls, reaching the target with nine wickets in hand. Earlier, Indias bowlers restricted Zimbabwe to 197 in 49.5 overs, with spinner Shree Charani leading the attack with figures of four for 23. Kranti Gaud picked up three wickets, while vice-captain Deepti Sharma claimed two and Shafali took one. Mandhana lauded the bowling unit for adapting well to a different venue, singling out Charani and also praising the discipline shown by the pace bowlers. Coming into a different ground, I think the bowlers adapted really well, especially Shree Charani, I think the standout bowler for us. Also the pacers, the way they bowled, Kranthi to mention, out of all the bowlers, they were pretty disciplined, she said. Despite the comprehensive win, the India captain acknowledged that her side could have maintained greater intensity in the field during certain phases of Zimbabwes innings. India have largely played T20 cricket over the past seven months, and Mandhana said the transition back to the 50-over format required some adjustment. Well, we are playing fifty overs after a very long time. We have played T20 cricket for almost the last seven months, so definitely in the period between 20 and 35, I would say, we could have had more intensity on the field. That is something which we will take back from a game and work on, she said. Mandhana also highlighted communication as a key factor in maintaining consistency in the bowling attack, particularly with players moving between the T20 and ODI sides. She credited the support staff, especially bowling coach Aavishkar Salvi, for helping the bowlers understand their roles and keeping the plans clear. Again, its communication. You need to be absolutely clear with them. When they came in as well, we had a lot of communication, especially again the T20 side from the one-day side; we had two days, she said. Good communication, knowing about, again, support staff, Aavishkar (Salvi) sir, not to mention, hes always with the bowlers, coordinates with them, then gets back to me with the plans. So hes really on it and makes my job easy, she added. Looking ahead to the second ODI, Mandhana said the team would welcome some time to relax after returning to the longer format while also using the opportunity to build stronger connections among players, including those who have recently joined the squad. Hopefully a relaxed, chill day would be good because we have all played one-day cricket after a very long time. So yeah, we will hang out with each other, trying to get to know more about the players, because we have a lot of new players coming in and a lot of energy, especially Jintimani. I mean, shes just a ball of energy around the team, she said. Looking ahead to the second ODI, Mandhana said the team would welcome some time to relax after returning to the longer format while also using the opportunity to build stronger connections among players, including those who have recently joined the squad. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Protesters are demanding the release of 10 arrested activists, reinstatement of suspended 'gaon buras' (village headmen), withdrawal of all pre-feasibility activities and removal of paramilitary and central forces deployed in the region.
March demanding scrapping of SIR, resignation of CEC held in Puducherry
Three juveniles held in attempted murder of school principal in Jharkhands Khunti
Digital Desk | Khunti (Jharkhand), Oct 23 (IANS) The Jharkhand police have solved the case of the attempted murder of Father Benedict Barla, principal of RC Boys Middle School, associated with St Michael's Church in Khunti, officials said on Friday. Three juveniles have been detained in connection with the attack, while a search is going on for a fourth accused. The incident had triggered widespread public outrage in the district. According to police, all four accused are former students of the school. They entered the school premises to steal money to visit a local fair. When Father Barla unexpectedly arrived at the school, one of the accused attacked him with a small hoe-like weapon, striking him on the forehead and temple to avoid being caught. Acting on the accused persons' disclosures, police recovered Rs 85,747 in cash, mobile phones, and several items purchased with the stolen money. Addressing a press conference on Friday evening, Rishabh Garg, Superintendent of Police of Khunti, said a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was constituted to track down the accused through technical evidence, CCTV footage, and information gathered during questioning. The three detained juveniles are aged 13, 14, and 15 years. The role and age of the fourth accused will be known after the arrest, he said. According to the SP, the four juveniles arrived at the school premises at around 8.30 p.m. on October 20 to steal money. During the theft attempt, they encountered Father Barla, leading to a confrontation. One of the juveniles then assaulted him with the weapon, causing serious injuries to his forehead and temple. After Father Barla collapsed, the accused stole items from the school office and fled. The entire incident lasted about 30 minutes, police said. Father Barla was found unconscious and severely injured on the school campus the nerxt day on the morning of October 21. He was shifted to a hospital in Ranchi, where he is still getting treatment. Police received information about the incident at around 8.45 a.m. on October 21. Police examined CCTV footage from the surrounding area and analysed mobile tower data. During the probe, a suspicious mobile number was identified, leading police to the first accused. Interrogation revealed the involvement of two other juveniles. Based on their disclosures, police recovered mobile phones and cash that had been buried in a forest area. The accused used part of the stolen money to purchase goods online and from local markets, while the remaining amount was hidden at different locations. According to police, all four accused had passed Class 7 from the same school and had earlier stayed in the school's hostel. The attack on Father Barla sparked protests across Khunti. On Friday, members of the Christian community and local residents organised a silent march demanding strict action against the accused. The protesters had also blocked a road in the area.
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 23 (IANS) Singer Mika Singh has said that his brother Daler Mehndi does not want the Uttarakhand controversy to be dragged further following Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhamis apology on behalf of state minister Subodh Uniyal. Speaking exclusively to IANS, Mika said he has brought the Daler Mehndi controversy to a close after CM Dhamis apology. He added that Daler called him on Friday morning and asked him not to let the matter be dragged further. He further said that CM Dhami has invited both brothers to Uttarakhand, and they would soon visit the state to perform. Talking about an artists responsibility towards the audience, Mika raised the question of whether a performer should take the stage when unwell, given their accountability to the people who come to watch them perform. He also held a press conference, where he said, Just this morning, I spoke with my elder brother, dear friend, and someone I hold in high regard, the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Pushkar Singh Dhami. Whenever I visit Dehradun, he meets me with great warmth and is extremely down-to-earth. The way he communicated with Daler Paaji and me was very polite and humble. He offered an apology on behalf of the Minister, and though I told him it wasn't necessary since he made no mistake. Mika added, The problem is that this happened to my brother, who is completely innocent and did nothing wrong. What was I supposed to doif I kept making video statements back-to-back, people would say this is all I do. However, I carefully thought it through and recorded a video at night, and when I called Paaji the next day, he broke down crying because he was emotional. On top of that, I can be quite straightforward and tend to scold him for agreeing to things, but before I could even say anything, he started crying like a child... He further mentioned, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the entire Bollywood industry, the people of Punjab, and all of Daler Paajis fans for the immense support shown after watching the video where he was scolded. It felt very wrong to see Daler Paaji spoken to in that manner, as reprimanding someone publicly nowadayswhether at school or collegesparks widespread controversy. Even during my 23 years of struggle, no one ever scolded me like that, except once in my childhood at a wedding when I ate before the guests arrived, which was my mistake. For the unversed, Daler Mehndis performance at the Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair in Uttarakhand became a subject of controversy after state minister Subodh Uniyal stopped his show midway. The minister alleged that Mehndi was under the influence of alcohol and lip-syncing during the religious Navratri event. Following the incident, several personalities from the entertainment industry, including Mika Singh, Palash Sen, Kapil Sharma, Ila Arun, Anupam Kher, and Sudesh Lehri, voiced their support for Daler Mehndi.
South Africa: IBSAMAR IX concludes as INS Tarkash completes port call at Simons Town
Digital Desk | Cape Town, Oct 23 (IANS) The ninth edition of the India-Brazil-South Africa Maritime Exercise (IBSAMAR IX) has concluded, with Indian Navys INS Tarkash completing its port call at Simons Town in South Africa, the Indian Navy said on Friday. The warship concluded the port call on Thursday, after the navies of the three countries operated together as a combined force from harbour to open sea. INS Tarkash concluded her port call at Simons Town on 22 Oct 26, on completion of the ninth edition of the IndiaBrazilSouth Africa maritime exercise. From harbour to open sea, the Indian Navy, Brazilian Navy and South African Navy operated together as a combined force towards shared vision of open and safe seas for all, the Indian Navy posted on X. Last week, INS Tarkash sailed from Simons Town for the sea phase of the exercise. INS Tarkash sailed from Simons Town on 15 Oct 26 for the Sea Phase of IBSAMAR IX. Ahead of sailing, Command Teams from the Indian Navy, Brazilian Navy and South African Navy convened for a joint Pre-Sailing Conference on 14 Oct 26 to deliberate on the conduct, coordination and execution of the Sea Phase, the Indian Navy had posted on X. During the harbour phase, Chief of the South African Navy, Vice Admiral Monde Lobese, visited INS Tarkash and interacted with the Commanding Officer and crew of the Indian warship. The trilateral exercise brings together the Indian, Brazilian and South African Navies with the aim of enhancing interoperability, strengthening maritime cooperation and promoting mutual understanding, the Ministry of Defence said. The current edition IBSAMAR IX holds significance in the context of furthering maritime cooperation and security in Indian Ocean Region. The theme of IBSAMAR IX is Stronger Together Towards a Shared Future in the Maritime Domain. It aims to promote collective maritime security and preparedness to address maritime challenges, the ministry had said. The South African Navy participated with SAS Amatola, SAS King Sekhukhune I and SAS Adam Kok III, along with the submarine SAS Manthatisi, while Brazil was represented by BNS Barroso with an integral Lynx helicopter. INS Tarkash participated with an integral Chetak helicopter.
CJP leaders vow to continue SIR protest, say Gyanesh Kumar will have to resign
New Delhi, Oct 23 (PTI) Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) leaders Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das on Friday vowed to continue their movement against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, with Das asserting that Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar would have to resign. The remarks came after the two leaders appeared before the Special Executive Magistrate (SEM) at the Mandir Marg police station in connection with separate cases registered against them. The movement continues. We are custodians of this platform which has been given to us by the people of this country. We are just trying to do our
Job Scam: Man Loses Rs 1.35 Lakh
A Delhi resident was allegedly defrauded of Rs 1.35 lakh by two individuals who promised him a driver's job with a monthly salary of Rs 32,000. The victim made multiple online transactions but never received the job, and the money was not returned. The accused are now reportedly demanding an additional Rs 20,000.
Ukraines Line Of Control In India-Pak Style? Zelenskyys Freeze Offer Could Lock In Putins Gains
Volodymyr Zelenskyy says he is prepared to freeze and stop the Ukraine war along the current front line. But does that mean Kyiv is giving Russia the roughly 19% of Ukrainian territory Moscow currently controls?Not quite. A freeze would halt fighting without necessarily recognising Russias territorial claims. But Vladimir Putin still wants Ukraine to withdraw from the rest of Donetsk, while Kyiv is demanding security guarantees from the US and Europe.Could the result resemble the India-Pakistan Line of Control a de facto dividing line without settling the underlying territorial dispute? We decode what Zelenskyys proposal means, what Putin wants and whether a frozen front could actually deliver lasting peace.
Bengal: NCC cadets receive accolades for their selfless service during Durga Puja
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 23 (IANS) National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets of the West Bengal and Sikkim Directorate received appreciation on Friday for their service during Durga Puja in Kolkata and the districts of West Bengal. Maj Gen APS Chahal, ADG, NCC, West Bengal and Sikkim Directorate, appreciated the dedication, discipline and sense of responsibility displayed by the cadets at a ceremony held at the Corps Directorate in New Alipore, Kolkata. More than 8,000 cadets, both boys and girls, assisted local police in crowd management, regulating the movement of visitors, facilitating the smooth functioning of pandal operations and helping elderly citizens and other members of the public during the six days of the Pujas. The cadets rendered valuable assistance to the local police and civil administration in ensuring the smooth and orderly conduct of the festivities. Despite the tragic incident at the Chor Bagan Durga Puja pandal, the NCC cadets displayed remarkable courage, commitment and a strong sense of civic responsibility. Rising to the occasion, the cadets continued to turn up for their assigned duties and extended wholehearted support to the administration, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to public service during this challenging period, an official said. Their disciplined conduct, alertness and willingness to serve contributed significantly to the efforts of the administration in managing the large influx of devotees and pandal hoppers, he added. The cadets exemplified the core values of the National Cadet Corps discipline, selfless service, leadership, commitment and service to the nation. Their conduct during the Puja festivities reflected the spirit of 'Unity and Discipline' and demonstrated how young citizens can make a meaningful contribution to society, particularly during demanding circumstances, he added. Maj Gen Chahal commended the readiness of the cadets to assist the police and civil administration and their commitment to the safety, convenience and well-being of the public, even in the aftermath of an unfortunate incident. Highlighting the overall effort and impetus being given to strengthen NCC in West Bengal, the ADG mentioned that the directorate has been actively engaging with the state government for requisite support in terms of budget, staff, infrastructure and incentives for the cadets. The general officer appreciated the positive approach and the vision of the new government in the state to expand NCC to all institutions of West Bengal. He assured that the NCC Directorate is committed towards grooming the youth of the state, appreciating the role of cadets, associate officers, permanent instructors and the Group Headquarters in ensuring effective coordination and the successful execution of their assigned responsibilities. The selfless service rendered by these young cadets stands as a testament to the NCC's enduring commitment to nation-building, community service and the development of responsible citizens, the official said. Their actions have brought laurels to the organisation and reaffirmed the vital role of the NCC in fostering the spirit of service and solidarity within society, he said.
Rajasthan: ACB arrests director, lecturer and teacher of Global BD College in bribery case
Digital Desk | Jaipur, Oct 23 (IANS) Acting on the directions of the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Headquarters, the ACB unit in Banswara conducted a trap operation on Friday and caught Bhupendra Jain, a Chemistry teacher at Global BD College, Barodiya, Banswara district, red-handed while allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 5,000 from a complainant. The college director, Siddhant Jain, and Political Science lecturer Dr Siddhant Jain were also arrested in connection with the case. The ACB's Banswara unit received a complaint alleging that the director, a lecturer and a teacher of Global BD College, Barodiya, were demanding bribes in exchange for facilitating attendance-related matters for students despite their low attendance throughout the academic year and issuing internship letters. Following the complaint, the ACB verified the alleged demand for a bribe. During verification, the college director, the Political Science lecturer and Bhupendra Jain, a Chemistry teacher, were allegedly found to be demanding Rs 20,000 from each student and agreeing to accept bribes. Under the supervision of the concerned ACB Range Superintendent of Police, Piyush Piyush, a trap operation was conducted on Friday under the leadership of Deputy Superintendent of Police Ratna Singh Rajpurohit of the ACB Banswara unit, along with the team. During the operation, Bhupendra Jain, Chemistry teacher at Global BD College, Barodiya, Banswara, was caught red-handed while allegedly accepting Rs 5,000 from the complainant. The college director and Dr Dominique Jain, Political Science lecturer, were also arrested after their alleged key roles in the bribery demand came to light during the investigation. Further questioning and investigation are underway under the supervision of senior ACB officials, including Additional Superintendent of Police Smita Shri and Inspector General of Police S. Parimala. Further legal action will be taken under the relevant provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act, and the investigation will continue.
Silicon Valley Democrats demand investigation into Starlink restrictions in Ukraine
A letter demanding an investigation indicates Democrats will make investigating Starlink's interruption a top priority if they win control of the U.S.... Silicon Valley Democrats demand investigation into Starlink restrictions in Ukraine
Dylan Larkin trade: Why are the Red Wings demanding a premium despite fair NHL offers?
The Detroit Red Wings are reportedly weighing multiple trade offers for captain Dylan Larkin but have yet to accept a deal. According to NHL insider Nick Kypreos, Detroit wants a substantially stronger return than the proposals currently available. With Larkins trade preferences and contractual protections shaping negotiations, the Red Wings face a key decision over whether to wait or reconsider their demands.
29 CA Wallah Students Shine in CA Intermediate Results, Secure Ranks Under AIR 50
VMPL New Delhi [India], October 23: CA Wallah, the Chartered Accountancy preparation vertical of PhysicsWallah (PW), has recorded a notable achievement in the Chartered Accountants (CA) Intermediate September 2026 examination, with 29 students securing All India Ranks (AIRs) under 50. Among the top performers, Mohammed Qutub Riyan secured AIR 11, Ronak Kumar achieved AIR 14, and Dip Roy secured AIR 20. Announced by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) on October 22, 2026, the results mark an important milestone for CA aspirants across the country. The achievement highlights the dedication required to navigate one of India's most demanding professional qualification pathways and underscores the importance of structured preparation, conceptual clarity and sustained practice. Building on previous performances, CA Wallah recorded 12 All India Ranks (AIRs) in the CA Intermediate May 2026 examination and 16 AIRs in January 2026. With 29 AIRs in the current examination, it f...
Irans Diplomat Calls for Global Condemnation Following School Attack
Irans representative urges the world to condemn the school attack that killed 168 children, demanding accountability from the U.S. Irans Diplomat Calls for Global Condemnation Following School Attack
TN: Protest in Coimbatore over student's suicide; protesters demand arrest of teacher, headmaster
Relatives of a 16-year-old student who allegedly died by suicide after facing caste-based discrimination and mental harassment staged a protest outside the Coimbatore District Collectorate on Friday, demanding the arrest of the teacher and headmaster concerned and the cancellation of the school's recognition. The deceased, Akilan, was a Class 11 student at the government-aided KK Naidu Higher Secondary School on Avinashi Road in Coimbatore. He was a resident of the Peelamedu area. According to allegations, fellow students had been avoiding Akilan at school, while a teacher allegedly subjected him to mental harassment by questioning him about eating beef. A complaint was reportedly submitted to the school headmaster, but no action was allegedly taken. Akilan died by suicide by hanging on Wednesday. More than 100 members of various political and social organisations, including the DMK, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the May 17 Movement, joined Akilan's parents and relatives i...
Odisha: Congress team visits Baleshwar to probe minor girls rape and murder
Digital Desk | Bhubaneswar, Oct 23 (IANS) Following the directions of Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) president Bhakta Charan Das, a party fact-finding team visited Jaleswar in Baleshwar district on Friday to investigate the rape and murder of a minor girl whose decomposed body was recovered on Thursday. According to an office order of the OPCC, the Congress fact-finding team will proceed to the victim girls native village and meet the deceased's family as well as visit the spot of the incident. The delegation comprises Ashok Das, Deputy Chief Whip of the Congress Legislature Party in the Assembly and Balasore District In-charge, Debiprasanna Chand, Former MLA, Sanjeeb Giri, PCC General Secretary, etc. It is worth noting that the victim, a Class X student, was acquainted with the accused, Chandrakant Jena alias Kanha, of Sultanpur village under Jaleswar police limits. Local sources claimed that on October 16, Kahna took the victim on his motorcycle on the pretext of taking her to a nearby market. After several hours, when the victim did not return home, her parents approached the police, alleging that Kahna had kidnapped her. However, the local police reportedly let him go after questioning him. After obtaining reliable clues in the case, police brought Kanha back to the police station on Thursday, where he reportedly confessed during interrogation to raping and murdering the girl. Based on information elicited during interrogation, police recovered the victims half-burnt body from the crime scene on Thursday. Following the recovery of the body, the victims relatives and villagers staged a protest, demanding action against the local police for their alleged negligence in handling the case. Speaking to media persons on Friday, Baleshwar SP Pratyush Diwaker said, A deeply tragic incident has taken place. On October 16th, we received a missing person report concerning a minor girl. The suspect was promptly taken into custody. Following sustained interrogation, it was revealed that on the day of her disappearance, October 16th, the accused took her away and subjected her to non-consensual physical abuse. When she resisted and rejected his advances, the accused acted in sudden rage, strangling her to death. The Baleshwar SP further stated that the investigation has since been entrusted to a Deputy SP-rank officer. He also denied that anyone else was involved in this heinous crime. Our priority is to expedite the chargesheet and pursue a fast-track trial to ensure a swift conviction, he added. Taking the matter seriously, the Baleswar SP suspended Sub-Inspector Karan Marandi of Jaleswar police station for negligence and transferred the police station's Inspector-in-Charge (IIC) with immediate effect.
The new iPad mini is coming to put the Air out of its misery
Macworld Ever since the 10th-gen iPads 2022 redesign to match the rest of the lineup, the iPad lineup has been pretty clear. Theres the iPad Pro , which has the latest features and the best performance, the iPad Air in the middle, the smaller iPad mini , and the entry-level model with an older A-series chip and display. As such, weve always recommended the iPad Air for most people looking for an iPad with a smart combination of price and specs. However, after the recent hikes added $150 to the price, the Air is a lot less attractive than it was for $599, especially since it hasnt gotten a meaningful upgrade in years. The upcoming iPad mini expected to launch as part of Apples Pro and Tell event next weekis shaping up to become the new balanced mid-ranger. While it wont offer an M-series processor or a screen as larger as even the smaller iPad Air, the overall package is rumored to be significantly more advanced and feature-rich than the Air offers. In fact, once the new iPad mini launches, I see little reason why the Air even needs to exist. Au revoir, LED Disregarding the size, the iPad Air and iPad mini offer comparable Liquid Retina (LED) screens. With both models, you get the same maximum brightness, wide color P3 gamut, True Tone support, Apple Pencil compatibility, antireflective coating, etc. The iPad mini does come with a slightly higher pixel density of 326 ppi (compared to the Airs 264 ppi) due to its smaller size, but thats about it. The M4 iPad Pro was the first Apple tablet to adopt an OLED panel, unlocking true blacks and crisper colors. After two years of exclusivity, OLED is finally rumored to expand to another iPad. Based on Apples pattern, one would assume that would be the iPad Air, but somewhat surprisingly, its reportedly coming to the mini first. The iPad mini will reportedly be Apples first non-Pro tablet to switch to OLED. Having actively used both an LED iPad Air and an OLED iPad Pro, let me tell you that its not just an iterative bump on a spec sheet. The difference in image quality is night and day. Colors are richer, blacks are deeper, and HDR content shines. To be fair, the iPad mini reportedly wont be receiving the same tandem OLED technology found in the iPad Pro, but the upgrade will undoubtedly enhance consumed digital content. Even with a smaller display the iPad mini will essentially leapfrog the Air for movies and photo editing. The iPad Pro might not be Apples only tablet with an OLED display. Britta OBoyle Putting the IP in iPad iPads have never had an water-resistance rating, making them susceptible to liquid damage and more worrisome when traveling to a beach or using one to relax while taking a bath. The next iPad mini will be the first model with an official water resistance certification, widely expanding its use case possibilities. On rainy days, for example, you wont hesitate to take it out with you. Youll similarly feel more comfortable using it in the kitchen while cooking, on the beach, or in the bathtub. This will make it infinitely more practical for on-the-go reading sessions, viewing recipes, and consuming media while soakingand set it apart from even the iPad Pro. Add in its inherent portability, and its a more intriguing option than the Air. Pro power Given that the iPad Air is powered by the Macs M-branded chipsets, one would assume itll always outperform the iPad mini and its A-series processors. While this may have been the case in the past, the next iPad mini is expected to get a serious upgrade with the iPhone 18 Pros A20 Pro SoC. With the same 12GB of RAM as the M4, Apples A20 Pro actually outperforms the Airs chipset in several relevant benchmark tests. As such, demanding iPadOS apps should run fluidly and reliably on the mini variant. And given the shift to a 2nm manufacturing process, the iPad mini could become even more power efficient, extending its battery life beyond the reported 10-hour limit on the current mini and Air models. Size matters It goes without saying that the iPad mini is significantly lighter0.65 pound (293grams) vs 1.02 pounds (464grams)and more portable than the Air, making it more practical to store and carry around. Its also relatively intuitive for one-handed use, letting you utilize tablet features without the added bulk. The iPad mini is significantly small than other iPads, but that also makes it lighter and more portable. Petter Ahrnstedt The flashy kind Another iPad Pro feature that mini users get is the True Tone flash. While you likely wont be taking professional-grade photos with your iPad, the flashlights utility extends beyond the Camera app. For example, you could turn it on when using the built-in document scanner to produce clearer results. It can also come in handy during sudden power outages when your iPhone isnt within reach. The issue of price After the recent price hikes, the 8.3-inch iPad mini starts today at $599, while the 11-inch iPad Air goes for $749. Taking all of the above into consideration as well as the Apples recent pricing strategy, we can conclude that the mini will get another price hike, perhaps even pushing it as high as $799. Is $799 too much for iPad mini? Not if the rumored features all come to pass. Foundry Lets say that happens. Yes, that means the mini would cost $50 more than the Air, assuming Apple doest raise prices again. However, other than a smaller screen, the upcoming iPad mini will offer a superior experience in every way, with a better display, stronger durability, higher performance, and greater portability. Its hard to imagine that anyone would choose the 11-inch Air instead even with a slightly lower price. Want the best performance? The iPad Pro is the one you want. Need an 11-inch display? Go for the A16 iPad. Need to get work done? The $699 MacBook Neo is much smarter option than an 11-inch iPad Air with a Magic Keyboard for $1,018 or $1,268 for the 13-inch model. Heck, at that point, you might as well add $30 and get an M5 MacBook Air instead. So, once the new iPad mini arrives, theres really no scenario where it would make sense to buy an iPad Air. And I cant help but wonder if its days in the iPad lineup are numbered.
Left parties, student groups march towards EC HQ, demand Gyanesh Kumar's resignation
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 23 (IANS) Several Left-Wing organisations, student leaders and civil society members on Friday took part in a protest march towards the Election Commission of India (ECI) headquarters in the national Capital amid heavy security, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), Gyanesh Kumar, over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The participants, including members of Left-Wing's All India Students' Federation (AISF) and All India Youth Federation (AIYF), gathered near Bangla Sahib Gurdwara at Delhi's Connaught Place to march to the Election Commissions headquarters near Patel Chowk. CPI(M) leader Brinda Karat, CPI leader P Sandosh Kumar and political activist Yogendra Yadav also took part in the protest. Speaking to reporters, Yadav said: The protests will continue uninterrupted. If you shut down one Jantar Mantar, hundreds of Jantar Mantars will emerge. You may silence one person, but you cannot silence the people. This movement will continue in its own form because it is about the most basic democratic rights of the people of this country. P Sandosh added: ...We will intensify our movement in the coming days, and there will be larger gatherings. We will continue our agitation until the resignation of Mr. Gyanesh Kumar. No one can save him for sure. Heavy security deployment was also witnessed outside the ECI headquarters and several protesters were detained by the police. Earlier in the day, the Delhi Traffic Police had advised commuters to avoid affected routes in view of the protest march. In a post on 'X', the Delhi Traffic Police said: In connection with the anticipated movement of a large number of people from Bangla Sahib Gurudwara towards Jantar Mantar today, traffic diversions will be in place from 1:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. Commuters are advised to avoid affected roads, plan their journeys in advance and follow traffic police instructions, it said. Further, the Traffic Police appealed to motorists to remain patient, follow rules and cooperate with traffic personnel deployed in the area. Please follow diversion signs and traffic directions to avoid congestion, it said. The protests demanding the resignation of CEC Kumar gained momentum following a media report claiming differences within the poll panel regarding procedures related to the SIR. Earlier this month, the agitations against the CEC were led by the Opposition INDIA Bloc and the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), leading to brief detentions of several leaders. Meanwhile, the BJP has launched a nationwide campaign titled 'Save democracy, remove anarchy' to counter the Opposition's criticism of the SIR.
Several protesters detained as anti-SIR march heads to Gyanesh
New Delhi, Oct 23 (PTI) Delhi Police on Friday detained several protesters as a march against the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls moved towards the headquarters of the Election Commission of India (ECI) means Gyanesh Kumars office in central Delhi, clamping Section 163 of the BNSS prohibiting mass gatherings, sources said. The march, called by the Delhi Coordination Committee of People Against SIR, a peoples collective, began near the Gole Dak Khana, at the intersection of Kalibari Marg and Bhai Vir Singh Marg, with participants carrying the national flag and banners demanding an end to the electoral roll revision
Srinagar, Oct 23: Continuing its crackdown against drug peddling, Jammu and Kashmir Police have arrested four drug peddlers in separate anti-narcotics operations in Anantnag, Kulgam and Kupwara; and recovered contraband substances from their possession. A police spokesperson said that in Anantnag, during patrolling in the Jablipora area, a police party from Police Station Bijbehara arrested a person identified as Usman Ahmed Mir son of Late Zahoor Ahmed resident of Batengoo, Bijbehara, at Fruit Mandi. During his search, 7.6 grams of a heroin was recovered from his possession. Similarly in another operation, a police party from Police Station Srigufwara, during naka checking at Hittigam Crossing, arrested Bilal Ahmad Lone son of Gh. Ahmad Lone resident of K. Kalan, and recovered approximately 18 grams of Charas from his possession. In Kulgam, a police party from Police Station Qaimoh, while conducting naka checking at Khudwani, arrested one person who allegedly attempted to flee upon noticing the police party. During checking, 2.392 grams of a substance suspected to be wet Bhang seeds and flowering tops (including polythene) and 35 grams of a substance suspected to be Charas, wrapped in polythene, were recovered from his possession, spokesperson said. He said that police in Kupwara apprehended one person and recovered approximately 1.3kgs of a charas-like substance during naka checking near Panchayat Ghar, Rang Warnow. Accordingly, cases under relevant sections of NDPS act stands registered at respective police stations, while as further investigation into the matters to track forward and backward linkage is on, spokesperson added.
Anti-SIR Protest March Heads to ECI Amid Tight Security
NEW DELHI, Oct 23: A protest march against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls moved towards the Election Commission of India headquarters in central Delhi on Friday, with demonstrators alleging voter deletions and demanding Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumars resignation. The march was organised by the Delhi Coordination Committee of People Against SIR, [] The post Anti-SIR Protest March Heads to ECI Amid Tight Security appeared first on Northlines .
Kacha Badam fame Anjali Arora gets legal notice after Kanpur event controversy
Amid the Kanpur event controversy, the organisers have reportedly sent influencer and social media sensation Anjali Arora a legal notice demanding Rs 1.20 crore in damages and a public apology.
CJP leaders Ashutosh Ranka, Saurav Das appear before SEM
New Delhi: Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) leaders Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das on Friday, October 23, appeared before the Special Executive Magistrate (SEM) at the Mandir Marg police station, police sources said. They were questioned in connection with two separate cases registered against them over allegations of trespassing and obstructing public servants during the October 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 .
Anti-CEC Protest March Heads Towards ECI Office In Delhi, Traffic Diversions Until 5 PM
Farmers, students and civil society groups march against SIR, demanding CEC Gyanesh Kumars resignation as Delhi Traffic Police warns of diversions in central Delhi until 5 pm.
Lincoln A Fantastic Place For India A To Do Tests Prep, Dont Get Spooked By Green Tops, Says Pamment
The Bert Sutcliffe Oval: The Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln is the ideal setting for India's Test top-order batters to find their feet in New Zealand, and that they must not be unsettled by the green pitches awaiting them, said former New Zealand assistant coach James Pamment. India A begin their red-ball series against New Zealand A at the Bert Sutcliffe Oval on Saturday, and Pamment, who also worked as fielding coach of five-time IPL winners Mumbai Indians, believes it is the perfect stepping stone for a group largely new to the country. They're playing their two games at the Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln University, aren't they? So, it'll be very, very similar conditions and very similar atmosphere to when they play at Hagley Oval. Different clay in Wellington and very green wickets for Test matches in Wellington. Sometimes teams get spooked by the greenness of the wicket, but it actually doesn't seam around too much. It gives great pace and great bounce. So, that's what they'll have to bear in mind, that the wickets that they're preparing on in Christchurch will be a little bit flatter. They might seam a little bit more and then flatten off. But what they'll experience in Wellington is very green wickets, but a little bit more pace, bounce and not as much movement. So, it will be important. Take the brave option would be my encouragement to those guys and make sure they're starting that in their preparation down at Bert Sutcliffe Oval, which is a fantastic ground to be doing your preparation, especially if you've never played in New Zealand before. It's a nice environment just to make that transition, Pamment told IANS in an exclusive conversation. The stakes explain why the A team fixtures matter so much. The Shubman Gill-led side faces a very tough examination when the two-match Test series starts on November 19, in a country where India have won just two series in 58 years. Only three players in the current Test squad - Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah - have played a Test match previously in New Zealand. With the series happening in November, well before the peak of the New Zealand summer comes, it means conditions will favour seamers more. At least nine members of the Test squad KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Devdutt Padikkal, Jurel, B Sai Sudharsan, Washington Sundar, Akash Deep, Anshul Kamboj and Pant (subject to recovering from left side strain), are lined up for three red-ball matches between October 24 and November 10 and need to acclimatise to conditions if they are to excel in the Test series. Pamment stressed that mindset would matter as much as technique for the visiting batters. I understand that there are four or five of those guys that are playing in the first three ODIs and will then step across and start some preparation for the Test matches, as is the same with the New Zealand team. Seven of the New Zealand players will step out of the fourth and fifth ODIs and start their preparation for the Test match in Basin Reserve. But I think it's really important that they don't get spooked by the green wickets. That's the most important thing and that they remain positive and they try and take the game on and, and advance it rather than thinking, 'Oh, it's green wickets. We're going to have to fiddle around here and try and survive.' There is plenty riding on the outcome too. India sit fifth in the World Test Championship standings and need a 1-0 or 2-0 result to keep their hopes of a final berth alive. When India won 1-0 in 2009, their top-order amassed 899 runs in three Tests, with two centuries and five fifties. Current head coach Gautam Gambhir had batted out for 643 minutes and 436 balls for making a magnificent 137 runs, to save the Napier Test. But in the 2014 and 2020 tours, Indias top-order didnt replicate those dazzling efforts and suffered series defeats. Onus will be huge on Rahul, Jaiswal and Padikkal to get big runs, especially with New Zealands top-order averaging 45.03 in Tests at home since 2024. On the bowling combination, especially with Bumrah and Jadeja present, Pamment was clear that India should resist the temptation of an all-pace attack. I think you definitely have to play a spinner. For sure you have to play a spinner because if the game in Wellington does go the distance a little bit longer - sometimes games are finished in the third, or even the second and third days. But I think with quality batting, if you approach it with accuracy and, like I say, with bravery, then the game can go deep. So, you always need to play a spinner and I don't think they need to just go for a total seam attack. I think it's definitely 3-1 would be my recommendation and somebody like Jadeja obviously is an all-rounder as well. Then, you do lengthen your batting, but I think three seamers is a good one. He also felt the presence of seam-bowling all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy can help balance Indias ideal playing eleven. That all-rounder is the key as well - if you can have a middle-order all-rounder who can bowl a little bit of seaming balls. Somebody like Nitish Kumar Reddy in the middle order, and then Jadeja just allows you to play those three specialist seamers, one specialist spinner and an all-rounder. That's the right balance and I think that's probably the balance that New Zealand might look to go in with as well. New Zealand's edge at home has often come as much from their batters' comfort on seaming surfaces as from their bowling. Even so, Pamment warned that bounce would be the biggest test for the Indian batters, with Matt Henry leading a demanding and relentless fast bowling unit. Matt Henry has been one of the world's best bowlers in Test match cricket over the last two or three years. He's found very consistent line and length - very demanding, moves the ball, swings the ball, and seams the ball. With (Kyle) Jamieson, it's bounce and some of the other guys who are potentially likely to be involved as well. It could bounce if they go for, let's say Jacob Duffy, who was the leading wicket-taker for New Zealand for all formats over the last calendar year and so it could be him. Blair Tickner's another one with bounce - so that's the thing that they were going to have to be able to combat is the bounce. It'll be slightly different from Wellington to Christchurch. But those New Zealand bowlers will be demanding and India can probably think themselves a little bit fortunate that New Zealand have decided to rest William O'Rourke. O'Rourke has been kept out with an eye on the Test series against Australia that follows soon after they are done with matches against India. He's not going to be available because he's being conditioned to be ready for the Australian series, which follows on after the Indian series. So, he's a big miss for New Zealand. But they're obviously trying to make sure that he's ready for Australia. It'll be demanding, and there's obviously a number of other bowlers as well around that group. They haven't named their team yet, but when they do, I think the seamers will come from that crop. Nathan Smith's another one - not quite as tall as some of the other ones, but Nathan is very accurate. Obviously, he does move the ball laterally as well and generally gets into a very consistent line and length. So, the Indian boys will have to be very proactive when facing him because you just can't allow those guys just to get into the groove and bowl consistent ball after ball after ball. You have to be proactive and the Indian guys will know that. With the WTC final spots at stake, Pamment said the hosts were well placed going into a demanding stretch. Obviously, it's a pivotal time. New Zealand are sitting in a pretty good position, but they're playing India at home and then Australia away. So, two incredible challenges and if they can come out with positive results in those two series, it'll really stand them in good stead. So, really exciting times to be a New Zealand spectator, supporter and obviously a player as well to play against India and then going to Australia straight away. So, a lot of excitement around that. India has got a little bit of work to do, but hey, they have the quality. With the WTC final spots at stake, Pamment said the hosts were well placed going into a demanding stretch. Obviously, it's a pivotal time. New Zealand are sitting in a pretty good position, but they're playing India at home and then Australia away. So, two incredible challenges and if they can come out with positive results in those two series, it'll really stand them in good stead. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Sacred Ekadashi Mahadeep Ritual at Puri Jagannath Temple
Watch | A sacred Ekadashi ritual at Shree Jagannatha Temple in Puri sees the Mahadeep prepared with ghee and new white rice in three silver kalashis, using banana leaves. After the Mahadeep samskara near Mahaprabhu and the aarti, the Mahadeep ascends to the top of the Shrimandir. ��Alongside this sacred tradition, devotees witnessed todays Patitapabana Darshan at the temple.
Anti-SIR Protest In Delhi: Farmers, Students March To Election Commission Office
Farmers, students and civil society groups marched towards the Election Commission of India (ECI) headquarters in central Delhi on Friday, protesting against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The
The parties demand pending bills for incomplete houses sanctioned under the Indira Awaas Yojana and other previous housing schemes be released immediately
Drought in Rajasthan: Ashok Gehlot questions government, Kirodi Lal Meena responds
Digital Desk | Jaipur, Oct 23 (IANS) Rajasthan is facing a rainfall deficit this year, with several districts experiencing drought-like conditions. The shortfall has raised concerns in western Rajasthan, particularly in Jodhpur, Barmer, Jaisalmer and Balotra, where shortages of water and fodder are affecting rural communities. The situation has also sparked a political exchange between former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Agriculture Minister Kirodi Lal Meena of the Bhajanlal Sharma-led government. While Gehlot has urged the state government to provide immediate relief to affected farmers, Meena has said that a survey is underway to assess the extent of the damage. Rainfall has reportedly fallen to its lowest level in 17 years, in sharp contrast to last year, when the state recorded its highest rainfall in 108 years. The rainfall deficit has raised concerns among farmers and livestock owners, who are facing difficulties due to the shortage of water and fodder. With Panchayat elections underway in the state, the issue has also become a point of political debate, with the Congress demanding urgent assistance for affected rural communities. Agriculture Minister Meena said that eight to ten districts had received below-normal rainfall. He added that government officials and District Collectors were closely monitoring the situation. According to Meena, the Revenue Department is conducting a survey to determine the extent of the impact. He explained that the government would consider further action based on the survey findings and initiate relief measures once the assessment is complete and drought conditions are officially declared. In early October, Ashok Gehlot raised concerns about the worsening situation in western Rajasthan and shared figures highlighting the number of villages reportedly affected by drought-like conditions. According to the figures cited by Gehlot, approximately 2,000 villages in Jodhpur, 2,460 in Barmer, 1,216 in Balotra and 961 in Jaisalmer were facing drought-like conditions. He urged the Bhajanlal Sharma government to take immediate steps to provide relief to farmers in these areas. Gehlot's concerns centred on the impact of deficient rainfall on agriculture and rural livelihoods, particularly in areas where access to water and animal fodder has become increasingly difficult. The effects of inadequate rainfall extend beyond crop losses. Reduced water availability can affect livestock, drinking water supplies in rural areas and the livelihoods of farming families. Livestock owners are particularly vulnerable when fodder supplies decline and water sources become scarce. The Agriculture and Revenue departments are assessing conditions in the affected regions to determine the extent of the shortfall and its consequences. Meena said the government was receiving reports from officials and that the findings would guide decisions on declaring drought conditions and providing relief. Once the assessment is complete, the government is expected to determine the appropriate measures under established procedures. The timing and scope of relief will depend on the survey findings and the official decision on drought declaration.
Sunil Jakhar Protests Against AAP Government with Victims Family in Punjab Assembly
Sunil Jakhar leads a protest in Punjab Assembly, demanding justice for a shooting victims family and criticizing the AAP government. Sunil Jakhar Protests Against AAP Government with Victims Family in Punjab Assembly
Maha MLC polls: Voting underway for five seats; Mahayuti, MVA both assert wins
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 23 (IANS) Polling for five Maharashtra Legislative Council seats, comprising three graduate and two teacher constituencies, is currently underway on Friday with 182 candidates in the fray, and their political futures sealed in ballot boxes across 2,419 polling stations. The counting is scheduled for October 27. The polling, which started at 8 a.m. and will continue till 4 p.m., is taking place in the Pune Teachers and Pune Graduate constituencies; Amravati Teacher Constituency; Nagpur and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Graduate Constituencies, where the rebels have made the elections tough for both the ruling Mahayuti and Maha Vikas Aghadi. Union Minister of State Murlidhar Mohol cast his vote at Dindayal Upadhyaya School in Kothrud, Pune. Speaking to reporters after exercising his franchise, Mohol expressed firm confidence that the ruling Mahayuti coalition will secure victories across all five constituencies. Mohol stated that graduate and teacher voters are educated and analytical. He noted that voters evaluate national progress, global developments, and the accelerated pace of state development under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister/Deputy CMs leadership before casting their ballots. Addressing comparisons with cooperative body elections (such as Gokul), Mohol emphasised that cooperative and legislative council polls operate under entirely different dynamics. He reiterated full confidence in the victory of candidates such as Smita Jadhav and Kaustubh Gawde, noting that alliance-supporting voters will firmly back the coalition. The Higher and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Patil also said that the Mahayuti will win all five seats. Expressing strong confidence in the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) ahead of the Legislative Council elections, the Congress Legislature Party leader Vijay Wadettiwar predicted victories across all five seats, including the Nagpur Graduate constituency, both seats in Pune, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and Amravati. Levelling serious allegations over electoral integrity, Wadettiwar claimed that flawed voter lists are a critical issue and asserted that the BJP resorts to manipulation in voter rolls because it cannot win elections fairly. The Pune graduate constituency records the highest participation base with approximately 3.88 lakh voters. The Amravati teacher constituency records the smallest base with approximately 35,000 voters. To ensure ballot validity, voters were required to present valid identification documents, including Aadhaar cards, driving licenses, PAN cards, Indian passports, government or semi-government service ID cards, MP/MLA/MLC official IDs, educational institution service IDs, or original university degree/diploma certificates. The election process in the Nagpur graduate constituency witnessed friction following allegations of discrepancies in the voter rolls. Congress candidate Abhijit Wanjari and party leaders raised concerns over 8,744 duplicate voter entries across multiple polling booths, calling the situation a matter of serious concern. Congress state chief spokesperson Atul Londhe alleged during a press conference that approximately 20,000 to 22,000 voter registrations were processed using a single mobile number (5432154321), and questioned the transparency of the verification process. A formal letter demanding an inquiry was submitted to the divisional commissioner by Congress leader Prafulla Goodhe. Following complaints, election authorities at polling booths required voters with duplicate listings to execute a short written declaration confirming they were voting at only one designated location and would not cast a vote elsewhere.
Neha Bora tells Delhi HC she had no role in CJP protest call, challenges Rs 10,000 peace bond notice
AISA chief Neha Bora denied inciting violence over the CJP protest in the Delhi High Court, as the Centre accused her of repeated violations and opposed her claims on regime change. Bora challenged a notice demanding a Rs 10,000 bond to maintain peace, with the court reserving its order for Friday.
Miscommunication By Eiffel Tower: BAPS' Brahmavihari Swamiji On 'Women Sidelined' Claim
Brahmavihari Swami, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha spokesperson and the head of BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, spoke at length about the Eiffel Tower controversy at NDTV World Summit.
Mumbai: Andheri man held over alleged bestiality near temple
Woman records alleged sexual act with stray dog near Hanuman Mandir at midnight, prompting police action
'Ilhan Omar A Scammer, She Married Her Brother': Trump's Brutal Attack On Minnesota Congresswoman
Donald Trump has launched a fresh attack on Ilhan Omar, accusing the Minnesota congresswoman of fraud and demanding that she resign immediately. Trump claimed Omar used a fake name when she was elected and sworn into Congress, and raised questions about allegations surrounding her marriage to a man he described as her brother. He also claimed Republicans had picked up a House seat. These are Trumps allegations; his remarks alone do not establish wrongdoing or determine Omars legal eligibility to serve.#DonaldTrump #IlhanOmar #USPolitics #BreakingNews #TrumpNews
Delhi Police arrest mobile phone snatcher in Karol Bagh; seize motorcycle
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 23 (IANS) Delhi Police have arrested a 25-year-old mobile phone snatcher and recovered the stolen phone and a motorcycle used in the crime, after a chase by alert patrolling personnel in the Karol Bagh area, officials said on Friday. The accused, identified as Raman, alias Manish, alias Aman, is a resident of Pratap Nagar, New Delhi. According to the police, he has multiple previous criminal involvements and is an externed person from the jurisdiction of Police Station Gulabi Bagh. The incident took place on October 21 at around 11 a.m., when the complainant, Mohd. Abbas, 19, was walking to work while using his mobile phone on New Rohtak Road near a bank in Karol Bagh. According to the complaint, two men riding a motorcycle approached him from behind, and the pillion rider allegedly snatched his mobile phone before fleeing towards Tibbia College. After the victim raised an alarm, Head Constable Ramjilal pursued the suspects along with the complainant. During the chase, the motorcycle was intercepted near a gurdwara close to Ajmal Khan Park in Karol Bagh. One of the suspects, identified as Raman, was apprehended, while the other managed to escape. The stolen mobile phone was recovered from the arrested accused, and the motorcycle used in the offence was also seized. The incident was subsequently reported to Police Station D.B.G. Road. Head Constable Ashok and Constable Kapil reached the spot and took custody of the accused, the recovered mobile phone and the motorcycle. Based on the complainant's statement and the circumstances of the incident, a case was registered at D.B.G. Road police station under Sections 304(2), 317(2) and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The FIR, numbered 384/2026, was registered on October 21. During further investigation, the police also found that the accused had been externed from the jurisdiction of Police Station Gulabi Bagh. The recovered motorcycle is bearing registration number UP14HA7321. Police records show that the accused has been linked to multiple previous cases registered at various police stations in Delhi. These include cases registered at Sarai Rohilla, Bharat Nagar, Keshav Puram, Bara Hindu Rao, Civil Lines, Kashmere Gate, Subzi Mandi, Burari, Gulabi Bagh, Prasad Nagar and Inderpuri police stations. The previous cases include allegations of theft, snatching, receiving stolen property and offences under the Arms Act. Police said efforts were underway to identify and apprehend the second suspect who fled from the spot. Further investigation into the case is in progress.
Rapido News: Pune District collector Jitendra Dudi has asked the city police commissioner to remove Rapidos bike taxi option from the app after an FIR was registered over alleged unauthorised operations. Autorickshaw unions are demanding stricter enforcement of the order.
Gurez Residents Continue Hunger Strike Over Healthcare Crisis
SRINAGAR: The hunger strike by residents of Gurez in north Kashmirs Bandipora district entered its second day on Friday, with protesters demanding improved medical facilities, an inquiry into the deaths of a pregnant woman and her baby, and a reshuffle of the local administration. The protesters are seeking the deployment of four-wheel-drive ambulances in Bagtore, []
Delhi-NCR battles poor air quality as pollution levels rise ahead of winter
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 23 (IANS) Air pollution continued to be a concern across Delhi-NCR on Friday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) remaining in the poor category as temperatures gradually decline ahead of winter. The deteriorating air quality has renewed concerns about the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to polluted air. According to data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), several monitoring stations across the national capital recorded AQI readings in the poor category. The readings included 215 in Burari, 183 in Jharoda Kalan, 182 in Vasundhara Enclave, 161 in Ghummanhera, 170 in Uttam Nagar, 241 in NIH Narela, 263 at Mandir Marg, 232 in Aya Nagar, 275 in Punjabi Bagh, 269 at CRRI Mathura Road, 289 at Pusa, 274 in Sirifort, 206 at NSIT Dwarka, 249 at Commonwealth Sports Complex, 238 at JNU and 246 at Burari Crossing. Other monitoring stations also reported elevated pollution levels, including Alipur (260), R.K. Puram (281), NSUT Jaffarpur (267), Dwarka Sector 8 (268), Anand Vihar (218), DTU (276), Mundka (266), Najafgarh (255), Jahangirpuri (284), Rohini (281), Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium (261), Patparganj (264), Bawana (269) and Narela (273). The minimum temperature in Delhi-NCR is expected to remain around 19 degrees Celsius, while the maximum is likely to hover around 32 degrees Celsius. Delhi recorded its first poor air quality day of the season on October 21, when the AQI climbed to 245, its highest level in around 100 days. The deterioration followed Dussehra celebrations across the national capital and coincided with reports of stubble burning in neighbouring states, including Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Crackers were also burst in several parts of Delhi during the festivities, alongside the traditional burning of Ravana effigies. However, no direct link has been established between the celebrations and the subsequent decline in air quality. In response to the worsening pollution, authorities invoked Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), intensifying measures to control dust and address local sources of emissions. The restrictions are particularly significant given the potential health impacts of prolonged exposure to polluted air, especially for children and senior citizens. Under GRAP, Stage I measures apply when the AQI falls between 201 and 300, classified as poor. Stage II is implemented at AQI levels of 301-400 (very poor), Stage III at 401-450 (severe) and Stage IV when the AQI exceeds 450 (severe plus). Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said the implementation of GRAP this late in the season was unprecedented in recent years. He said the government was pursuing short-term and long-term strategies to combat pollution, with public participation and coordination between the Centre and the Delhi government forming key components of the effort. Sirsa said an 11-point action plan was being implemented, focusing on dust control, promotion of electric vehicles, curbs on vehicular emissions and the identification of local pollution sources. An Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) has also been established to monitor pollution caused by construction activities. In addition, an artificial intelligence-based traffic management system is being used to improve traffic flow and help reduce vehicular emissions.
Mass Anti-Government Protests Sweep Serbia Ahead Of Elections
Huge crowds gathered at a pre-election rally as the student-led anti-government movement intensified across Serbia. Protesters are demanding political change and an end to President's rule ahead of key political developments.
Anantnag, Oct 22:Nearly two years after approval, Anantnags proposed 249-bed maternity and child care hospital remains stalled over land availability with the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah saying, on Thursday that the Mirza Afzal Beg Memorial (MAMB) -GMC Janglat Mandi site may be insufficient despite funds being ready. The impasse leaves patients dependent on an overcrowded maternity hospital where doctors report that two to three patients sometimes share a bed. Work on the proposed maternity and child hospital (MCCH) in Anantnag requires a feasible alternative site, as the land identified at MAMB Janglat Mandi may not be sufficient for the project. Funds are ready, and the department will work to identify a suitable location so construction can begin at the earliest, Omar told reporters after the Anantnag District Development Board meeting. The Health and Medical Education Department initiated the project in November 2024, directing the Public Works Department (PWD) to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) and fast-track construction at the Mirza Mohammad Afzal Beg Memorial (MAMB) campus of Government Medical College (GMC), Anantnag hospital. The initial DPR of Rs 86.5 crore was returned by the Finance Department for clarification on the funding source and inclusion of furniture and furnishings. The project cost was subsequently revised to Rs 94.44 crore. The revised DPR was forwarded to the GMC principal on April 1, ths year and subsequently sent to the Health Secretary, with copies to the Finance Secretary and Director of Health Services. Officials had earlier said administrative approval and formal release of funds were pending. Around 4.5 kanal had initially been demarcated at MAMB Janglat Mandi, where the hospital was planned to be connected to Block A. However, the proposed site in the campus already houses a nursing home and oxygen plants nearby. A critical care unit and an oncology block are also under construction and a sewage treatment plant (STP) is planned, leaving limited space for the proposed hospital. Alternative locations considered include the GMC main campus at Dialgam, the existing Sherbagh site after dismantling its dilapidated maternity hospital structures, and Rehmat-e-Alam Hospital at Sarnal on KP Road. The delay has prolonged reliance on Sherbagh maternity hospital, which the PWD and Fire and Emergency Services declared unsafe in 2014. Built for 40 beds, the facility handles more than 40,000 outpatient visits and around 7000 admissions every month. The paediatric section was shifted to GMC-MAMBs already congested A Block last year following repeated fires in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. However, a proposal to shift maternity services to Rehmat-e-Alam Hospital was shelved after structural assessments by IIT Jammu and NIT Srinagar found the building unsuitable under post-2005 earthquake safety standards. During the February budget session, the government told the Assembly that Rs 5 crore had been earmarked for the project under the 2025-26 CAPEX budget. It also said the hospital could be taken up under the SASCI scheme in 2026-27. Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo had said construction would begin once the land was finalised. With the MAMB Janglat Mandi site facing space constraints and no alternative location finalised, the hospital remains on hold despite the Chief Ministers assurance that funds are ready.
Speed up sanctioned works: CM Omar directs officers
Anantnag, Oct 22: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday directed the Deputy Commissioner and district officers to use the favourable weather to speed up execution of all sanctioned works in Anantnag. He said the outdoor working season is short and allocated funds must be utilised before the financial year ends. Speaking to reporters after chairing a review meeting, the CM said the purpose of his visit was not just inaugurations but to review ongoing development works and issue directions to accelerate them. The Deputy Commissioner's presentation indicated that development was progressing satisfactorily, Omar said, However, two or three departments were identified where the pace of work needs to improve. The Chief Minister said nearly all MLAs attended the meeting and presented their constituents' concerns, and the government would try to fulfil as many public demands as possible. On the Maternity and Child Hospital, Omar said a proposal had been framed for the Janglat Mandi site, but the department has pointed out that the land earmarked there will fall short of the project's requirements. The funds are already in place; all that remains is finalising the land, he said. Health Minister Sakeena Itoo could not attend the meeting, he said, but the government would sit down with the department to finalise an alternative location so that work could start at the earliest. On the long-pending demand for a District Secretariat complex, the CM said almost every MLA had raised it, but there was no consensus yet on the location. One suggestion was to rebuild on the current Deputy Commissioner's office premises, but that would require temporary relocation of administrative offices during construction. Omar said he had asked the Deputy Commissioner to consult all MLAs, eminent citizens and members of civil society to agree on a feasible site. A detailed project report (DPR) will be prepared once the location is decided. Asked about the Anantnag stadium, he said nobody had raised it during the meeting. If a formal proposal comes through, we will certainly examine it, he said. He added that he would answer only Anantnag-related questions, as issues such as the Ramlila Maidan event and Panchayat elections had no connection with the district review. Earlier, the Chief Minister dedicated to the public and laid foundation stones for projects worth over Rs 52 crore. About 11 water supply schemes were inaugurated, including Jal Jeevan Mission schemes at Semthan (Rs 6.29 crore), Shoul Sarsuna (Rs 5.66 crore) and Chontipora Baghwanpora (Rs 5.08 crore). He also laid foundation stones for the upgradation of the AshajiporaDonipawa road (Rs 3.61 crore) and a steel girder bridge over Nallah Brengi at Her-Kandiwara (Rs 3.18 crore). The review covered health, education, roads and infrastructure, youth empowerment, food and civil supplies, power and rural development. He issued time-bound directions to accelerate industrial estate development, streamline social welfare assistance, strengthen LPG buffer stocks for winter, and improve physical and financial progress under key schemes, including SASCI. He also directed banks to streamline disbursements under Mission YUVA to help local youth set up their enterprises. Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, Jal Shakti Minister Javed Rana, Agriculture Production Minister Javid Dar, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLAs of Anantnag district and senior officers attended the meeting. In a post on X, the Office of the Chief Minister said: During his visit to Anantnag today, the Chief Minister dedicated to the public and laid foundation stones for developmental projects worth over Rs 52 crore, reinforcing the Government's commitment to strengthening essential infrastructure and improving public services.
BRS, Left Parties Stage Dharna Over Alleged Irregularities In Indiramma Housing Scheme
Members of the BRS, CPM, CPI, CPI(ML) Mass Line and CPI(ML) Prajapantha participated in the protest, carrying their party flags and raising slogans demanding transparency in beneficiary selection.
'Disrespectful': Trump Blasts LeBron James Over Anthem Gestures
US President Donald Trump criticised LeBron James over his national anthem conduct, demanding an apology to American heroes, while reigniting debate over athletes' gestures during patriotic ceremonies.
Watch: Chennai: CJP Tamil Nadu and Left student outfits detained over SIR agitation
CJP Tamil Nadu and Left student and youth organisations stage a sit-in against SIR in Chennai, demanding CEC Gyanesh Kumars resignation. Despite being denied police permission, protesters planned a 24-hour demonstration before being detained.
Telangana ACB nabs officers seeking 25 pc cut from contractor
Hyderabad: The Telangana Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Thursday, October 22, arrested two officers working on the Bhagirathipet Project in Jayashankar Bhupalpally district for allegedly demanding a cut up to 25 per cent on contractor bills. The accused have been identified as Project Officer Satish Reddy and Technical Officer Raju. They had demanded illegal gratification of 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 .
TARATDAC stage protest demanding inclusion in Vettri Payanam Thittam
Farm outfits write to President demanding CECs Gyanesh Kumar resignation
Samyukt Kisan Morcha to hold nationwide protest rallies on Friday, October 23; various trade unions and civil society organisations have pledged support to the farmers march
UN's Limits Clearly Visible: PM Modi Presses For 'New Solutions' At NDTV Summit
The United Nations and other global institutions have had their historical role, but in the face of today's challenges, their limits are clearly visible. Now new powers are emerging, new voices are demanding their place, and new challenges are demanding new solutions, PM Modi said.
Gurez Residents Begin Hunger Strike Over Healthcare Crisis
SRINAGAR: Residents of Gurez in north Kashmirs Bandipora district have launched a hunger strike demanding improved healthcare facilities, an inquiry into the recent deaths of a pregnant woman and her baby, and changes in the local administration. The protesters have demanded the deployment of 44 ambulances in Bagtore, Tulail and Dawar, along with the permanent []
Gujarat courts Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan industry ahead of Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2027
The 11th edition of VGGS is scheduled for January 10-12, 2027, at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar
Hyderabad: Foreign Medical Graduates protest for stipend parity
Hyderabad: Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs) held a protest outside the Directorate of Medical Education (DME) office at Koti on Thursday, October 22, demanding stipends equal to those paid to Indian Medical Graduates (IMGs). Several protestors were detained and shifted to Chikkadpally Police Station. Before this, intern doctors had started a strike in government general hospitals 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 .
Two officials arrested for allegedly demanding up to 25% commission on contractor bills
Sopore bypass bridge lane closed till Oct 31, traffic diverted
Sopore, Oct 22: Authorities on Thursday announced the temporary closure of one lane of the bridge at kilometre 1.954 on Sopore bypass road from Thursday evening until October 31 evening, issuing alternative traffic routes for vehicles travelling towards Srinagar, Baramulla, Kupwara and Handwara. According to an advisory issued by Additional District Magistrate Sopore S A Raina, the restrictions have been imposed in accordance with orders issued by the District Magistrate Baramulla on October 21 and 22 to ensure public safety and smooth traffic movement. Vehicles travelling from Kupwara and Handwara towards Srinagar and Baramulla, excluding heavy trucks and trailers, have been directed to use Kupwara Crossing, Iqbal Market, Clock Tower, Shah Dargah Crossing, Degree College Crossing, Chankhan Bridge and Sangrama. Similarly, vehicles coming from Srinagar and Baramulla towards Sopore, Kupwara and Handwara will be diverted through Amargarh Chowk, Chankhan Bridge, Degree College Crossing, Mandi Crossing and Sopore Bypass. The advisory further states that heavy vehicles will not be allowed on the designated diversion routes between 8 am and 8 pm. Such vehicles will be permitted to use these routes only between 8 pm and 8 am. Vehicles coming from Rafiabad, including Mazbugh and Nowpora, have been directed to use the bypass road via Ahad Bab Chowk and enter Sopore through Kupwara Crossing. The administration has directed traffic authorities to deploy adequate personnel at major crossings and entry and exit points to ensure implementation of the diversions. The restrictions will remain in force until the evening of October 31, and commuters have been advised to follow the designated routes to avoid inconvenience.
Virginia state Sen. L. Louise Lucas charged with drug trafficking and money laundering
NORFOLK, Va. (AP) Virginia state Sen. L. Louise Lucas, one of the states most powerful Democrats, was charged on Thursday in connection with what federal authorities alleged was a role leading a wide-ranging criminal enterprise that acquired and distributed large quantities of marijuana and laundered the proceeds. Lucas, who has been in elected office for decades, used her political power to insulate the operation from scrutiny, according to an indictment charging her and six other defendants, including several of her relatives. She put her own financial interests before the people she was elected to serve, said U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche , who spoke at a news conference with FBI Director Kash Patel . Lucas surrendered, a Justice Department spokesperson said, and was expected to make an initial appearance in federal court on Thursday afternoon. The charges, including drug trafficking and money laundering, came after the FBI searched Lucas' hometown office and a cannabis shop in which she has a stake in May. At the time of the search, Lucas who has been a vocal critic of Republican President Donald Trumps administration characterized it as an attempt to intimidate her. This is the circus we always expected it to be, and we will wait for further details to have a more specific response, said Brian Woolfolk, chief counsel for the L. Louise Lucas Legal Defense Fund. Lucas says she won't be bullied by the federal government A statement attributed to Lucas posted on her social media account did not directly address the substance of the charges but said Thursday's actions amounted to the federal government wielding its full weight against a great-grandmother. I will not be intimidated. I will not be bullied. And I will not back down, Lucas said in the statement. The brash 82-year-old lawmaker has spent decades ascending the ranks of Virginia politics and has served since 1992 in the state Senate, where she is the president pro tempore, overseeing the chamber in the lieutenant governors absence. More significantly, she leads the powerful Senate finance committee, through which all legislation with any budget impact must flow. Shes used the position to stop and ultimately kill legislation she opposes. Justice Department rejects any suggestion politics played a role The indictment comes as Trumps Justice Department has faced intense scrutiny over investigations and prosecutions against foes of the president that critics have called politically motivated. Blanche rejected any suggestion that politics played a role in Lucas case, noting that the investigation began well before the second Trump administration started in January 2025. We dont do political paybacks, Blanche told reporters. A person familiar with the May search told The Associted Press at the time that the probe was opened during Democratic President Joe Bidens administration. The FBI alleges a criminal marijuana enterprise Patel said in a statement that the charges allege Lucas and a close-knit group of family members and associates orchestrated a multi-year scheme to enrich their own criminal marijuana enterprise, the Lucas Enterprise using Lucas position as Chairwoman of the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee to insulate the enterprise from criminal scrutiny and influencing legislation to financially benefit themselves. No one is above the law, the statement said, and this FBI will continue to follow the facts with our Justice Department and ensure those responsible for criminal conduct are held accountable. Lucas has long supported legalizing marijuana A forceful advocate of legalizing marijuana , Lucas partnered in opening the shop, The Cannabis Outlet, in 2021, selling hemp and CBD products. While marijuana is legal to possess in Virginia, recreational retail sales of the drug are not yet underway, though shops across the state do sell other cannabis-derived products. Lucas also runs a network of companies that provide residential, transportation and other services to adults with intellectual disabilities. Court records related to the case for months have been sealed, though earlier this year the Department of Justice sent at least two rounds of letters notifying journalists, politicians and others in Lucas orbit that their communications with Lucas had been intercepted as part of a court-approved wiretap that ran for two one-month time spans. At the time of the search, many Democrats spoke up to defend Lucas, expressing skepticism about the basis for the search, given the Department of Justices efforts to establish criminal conduct by perceived Trump opponents. Lucas has publicly spoken about her ownership stake in the cannabis shop as recently as June, though her most recent financial disclosure forms do not list the business by name. The senator draws comparisons to Trump Lucas, who represents a district that includes her hometown of coastal Portsmouth, operates with a sometimes-profane, unapologetic style thats drawn comparisons to Trump. She amassed a six-figure following on X and national attention, using the social media platform to advocate forcefully for her priorities and to bash her critics, including former GOP Gov. Glenn Youngkin. Shes also occasionally blasted members of her own party, including Gov. Abigail Spanberger, with whom shes had disagreements. Earlier this year, Lucas helped lead Democrats ultimately unsuccessful plan to gerrymander the blue-leaning states congressional districts into a map intended to elect 10 Democrats and only one Republican. Along the way, she posted quips about four GOP members the intended map sought to oust, joking that they soon would be working at McDonalds. She and other Democrats defended the maps as a reasonable response to Trump-backed efforts to boost the GOPs midterm advantage in other states. Lucas has been in politics for decades Lucas has notched several historic firsts in her career. According to a biography from the state library, in 1971 she became the Norfolk Naval Shipyards first female shipfitter, a physically demanding job that involves working on metal assemblies for vessels. She launched her political career in 1984, when, the biography said, she became the first Black woman elected to the Portsmouth city council. In her decades in the state Senate, Lucas has been a staunch advocate for abortion rights and increased public school funding and a leading voice on issues of racial justice and civil rights. In 2019, after Democrats flipped control of the chamber, her peers elected her to serve as president pro tempore. And in 2024, she was tapped to lead the chambers budget committee, gaining enormous sway over any legislation tied to the state budget. In that post, she played a leading role in killing Youngkins proposal to bring Washingtons NBA and NHL teams to a proposed $2 billion development in Virginia. ___ Rankin reported from Richmond. Associated Press reporter Eric Tucker contributed from Washington. This article originally appeared on Associated Press at https://www.yahoo.com/news/us/articles/virginia-state-sen-l-louise-135756507.html
Kannada activists warn of agitation over metro link to Attibele
Bengaluru: The proposed extension of Namma Metro from Bommasandra to Attibele has triggered opposition from Kannada activists, with Vatal Nagaraj and Karnataka Rakshana Vedike leader Praveen Shetty demanding that the state government withdraw the plan. The government has reportedly instructed Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) to prepare a Detailed Project Report for the proposed 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 .
Maharashtra: 8,000+ Medical Interns Reportedly Threaten Strike From Nov 1 Over Stipend Hike
Demanding their monthly pay be raised from 18,000 to 30,000 to meet surging living costs, more than 8,000 government medical interns across Maharashtra have warned of a total withdrawal of clinical duties starting 1 November.
Hundreds of protesters associated with the Rashtriya Devbhoomi Party on Thursday marched to the Himachal Pradesh Secretariat in Shimla after completing a 600-km, 21-day 'Swarn Samaj Ashwamedh Nyay Yatra', demanding the rollback of UGC provisions, enactment of a law for the protection of the Swarn Samaj and action on issues concerning social justice. The protesters, who began their march today on 21st day from near the Inter-State Bus Terminus (ISBT) in Shimla, travelled through Khalini and Tolland before reaching the Secretariat, covering approximately seven kilometres on foot. They subsequently gathered outside the state government complex and sought to submit a memorandum to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. Police deployed at the Secretariat pushed and stopped them, and mild force was used after protesters attempted to move towards or enter the premises, as the demonstration escalated. The protesters were demanding that the government receive their memorandum and address their...
Gen Z doesn't need a 30-year SIP for retirement. They just need to get the first seven right.
Instead of demanding a intimidating 30-year commitment, the First Seven Framework encourages Gen Z to aggressively build their retirement foundation during the first seven years of their career when life responsibilities are minimal.
Row over Rs 500-cr audio; Jarange alleges plot to crush stir
Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange has alleged a conspiracy to silence him, demanding a probe into a viral audio clip that claims Rs 500 crore was paid to him via Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde. Ruling Shiv Sena leaders have vehemently denied these allegations, calling them a 'conspiracy to defame' Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and the party, and have called for a forensic investigation into the audio clip, suggesting the speakers are from the BJP.
Ever imagined having Mandi in space? Hyderabad has a place for it
You may have tried different kinds of mandi in Hyderabad, from traditional floor seating and private cabins to restaurants with unique themes. But have you ever imagined enjoying mandi surrounded by planets, galaxies and alien-inspired decor, as if you were dining in outer space? HIYYA Space Mandi brings this unusual concept to Hyderabad, located at 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 .
Har gali mein Jantar Mantar on Oct 23; Bora, Dipke, others invited
New Delhi: People Against SIR have called for nationwide marches on Friday, October 23, demanding that Parliament impeach Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, scrap the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and restore democracy. All India Students Association (AISA) leader Neha Bora, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke, actor-politician Prakash Raj, and Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Nationwide stir called on Oct 23 against SIR; Dipke, Bora to join
New Delhi: People Against SIR have called for nationwide marches on Friday, October 23, demanding that Parliament impeach Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, scrap the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and restore democracy. All India Students Association (AISA) leader Neha Bora, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke, actor-politician Prakash Raj, and Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
250-bedded maternity hospital awaits site finalisation in Anantnag: CM Omar Abdullah
Anantnag, Oct 22 : The proposed 250-bedded Maternity and Child Care Hospital in Anantnag is awaiting site finalisation, with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday saying the location initially identified at Janglat Mandi had been found unsuitable due to space constraints. Speaking to reporters after chairing a district review meeting, the Chief Minister said funds for the project are available and the government hoped to start work soon after finalising an alternative site. He said elected representatives, the Health Minister, officials of the Health Department and civil society members would jointly discuss and decide the location to avoid further delays. As per the report submitted by the department, there is not enough space available at Janglat Mandi for the proposed hospital. We are, therefore, looking for another suitable location, he said. He added that the funds are available and the government hoped to start work soon once the site was finalised. He said the proposed hospital is expected to strengthen maternal and child healthcare services in south Kashmir by improving access to maternity care, newborn services and paediatric treatment. The Chief Minister also said the location of the proposed mini-secretariat in Anantnag remained undecided, adding that the issue had been raised by all MLAs. He said the Deputy Commissioner, in consultation with elected representatives and civil society members, would examine available options and take a decision on where the administrative complex should be established. The CM said one of the options under consideration is the existing Deputy Commissioners office premises. If the site was selected, alternative arrangements would also have to be made for government offices during construction. The location of the mini-secretariat is yet to be decided. The Deputy Commissioner, along with the MLAs and civil society representatives, will discuss the matter and take a decision, he said. Earlier, he chaired a review meeting to assess the progress of developmental works and ongoing projects in Anantnag district. He also laid foundation stones and inaugurated projects worth Rs 52 crore.(KNO)
250-bedded maternity hospital awaits site finalisation in Anantnag: CM Omar
Anantnag: The proposed 250-bedded Maternity and Child Care Hospital in Anantnag is awaiting site finalisation, with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday saying the location initially identified at Janglat Mandi had been found unsuitable due to space constraints. Speaking to reporters after chairing a district review meeting, the Chief Minister said funds for the project []
Singer Mika Singh has come out in support of his elder brother, Daler Mehndi, after a video showing MLA Subodh Uniyal reprimanding the veteran singer over his performance went viral on social media. Mika recently took to social media and claimed that Daler was approached just a day before the programme after singer Sunanda Sharma fell ill. He said the minister should be grateful to Daler for stepping in and fulfilling his commitment despite being unwell himself.
BJP cites media report, says Congress' 'regime change plot' exposed
The BJP has cited a Fox News digital investigation alleging links between protests in India demanding Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumars resignation and unrest in France and Albania. BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari accused the Congress of coordinating with Progressive International, alleging a regime-change plot. The Congress had not immediately responded to the allegations.
Best iPhone 2026: Every iPhone compared
Macworld Apples 2026 iPhone lineup is broader than ever, ranging from the relatively affordable iPhone 17e to the high-end iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max , plus the ultra-thin iPhone Air and the new folding iPhone Duo . That gives buyers more choice, but it also makes picking the right model more complicated than simply choosing the newest or most expensive iPhone. For most people, the iPhone 17 is the best all-round choice, thanks to its 6.3-inch ProMotion display, strong battery life, dual 48MP cameras and 256GB of storage as standard. The iPhone 17e is the better option if price matters most, while the iPhone 18 Pro is the model to choose for the best cameras and performance. The iPhone 18 Pro Max adds the longest battery life, the iPhone Air prioritises thinness and low weight, and the iPhone Duo offers Apples biggest and most flexible display. Which iPhone is best for you will therefore depend on what you value most. Camera enthusiasts should look closely at the Pro models, heavy users may prefer the Pro Max for its battery life, while parents, older users and anyone trying to keep costs down may find the 17e a much better fit. There can also be excellent value in buying a discounted or refurbished older iPhone rather than paying full price for the latest hardware. This guide focuses on the best iPhone to buy for different types of user and budget. If you want to dig deeper into the differences between every model, see our complete iPhone Buying Guide , where we compare the cameras, displays, performance, storage, battery life and other key specifications across Apples current lineup. Which iPhone to buy: At a glance If you want Then buy Best camera iPhone 18 Pro Best battery iPhone 18 Pro Max Biggest screen iPhone Duo Best all-rounder iPhone 17 Best value iPhone 17e Lightest iPhone Air Cheapest Refurbished iPhone (iPhone 16 or newer) 1. Apple iPhone 17 Best iPhone for most people Pros Excellent overall value ProMotion Always-On display Dual 48MP cameras Cons No dedicated telephoto Limited to 512GB Price When Reviewed: $899 (was $799) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Why we recommend it The iPhone 17 brings several features previously reserved for Pro models to Apples mainstream iPhone, including a 120Hz ProMotion display and Always-On support. It also offers the fast A19 chip, dual 48MP cameras, an improved Centre Stage selfie camera, strong battery life and 256GB of storage as standard. For most buyers, it strikes the best balance between price and features. Buy iPhone 17 if Buy the iPhone 17 if you want the best all-round iPhone without paying Pro prices. Its 6.3-inch ProMotion display, excellent cameras, strong battery life and 256GB starting storage make it particularly appealing to anyone upgrading from an iPhone 14 or older. Dont buy iPhone 17 if Dont buy it if you want optical zoom beyond 2x or Apples most advanced camera featuresin that case, choose the iPhone 18 Pro. The iPhone Air is a better choice if thinness and low weight are your priorities, while existing iPhone 16 owners may find the upgrade relatively modest unless ProMotion and improved battery life are particularly important. What do you get that you dont get with the iPhone 17e? For the extra $200, the iPhone 17 gives you a larger 6.3-inch ProMotion Always-On display, Dynamic Island, a second 48MP Ultra Wide camera with macro photography, a brighter screen, stronger graphics performance, a better 18MP Centre Stage selfie camera and longer battery life. For most people who can afford the difference, its money well spent. What do you get that you dont get with the iPhone 16? For $100 more, you get double the base storage at 256GB, a larger 6.3-inch ProMotion Always-On display, an upgraded 48MP Ultra Wide camera, an improved 18MP Centre Stage selfie camera, longer battery life, faster charging and the newer A19 processor. At full price, the iPhone 17 is the better buy. Key specs The iPhone 17 combines a 6.3-inch ProMotion display, Always-On support and the A19 chip with dual 48MP rear cameras and 256GB of storage as standard. It offers many of the features most people actually want from a Pro iPhone without the Pro price. Starts at : $799 / 799 (256GB) Display : 6.3-inch OLED ProMotion (120Hz) Chip : A19 Storage : 256GB512GB Cameras : 48MP Main + 48MP Ultra Wide, 18MP front camera Battery : Up to 30 hours of video playback Should you buy or wait? Buy now. The iPhone 17 offers excellent value, while the iPhone 18 isnt expected until spring 2027 and may bring higher prices rather than transformative upgrades. Waiting for Prime Day or Black Friday could make sense if youre looking for a discount. Read our full Apple iPhone 17 review 2. Apple iPhone 18 Pro Best for photography Pros Excellent triple-camera system Powerful A20 Pro chip Strong battery life Cons Expensive starting price Overkill for most buyers Price When Reviewed: $1,199 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $1199 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Why we recommend it The iPhone 18 Pro is the model to buy if you want Apples best cameras and performance without stepping up to the much larger Pro Max or experimental folding iPhone Duo. Its variable-aperture camera will be a meaningful upgrade for some photographers although our reviewer found the practical effect modest and valued the manual controls more. The A20 Pro chip, improved cooling, longer battery life and faster charging make it particularly capable for gaming, video and demanding AI workloads. Crucially, it gets the same cameras and processor as the Pro Max, making it the better-value Pro model for most buyers. Buy iPhone 18 Pro if Buy the iPhone 18 Pro if you want Apples best camera system; need more performance than the standard iPhone offers; regularly play demanding games or use intensive creative or AI apps; or want excellent battery life without carrying the enormous Pro Max. Its a compelling upgrade for anyone with an iPhone 15 Pro or older. Dont buy iPhone 18 Pro if Most people dont need the iPhone 18 Pro. The standard iPhone 17 already offers an excellent 6.3-inch 120Hz ProMotion display, A19 chip, dual 48MP cameras, 256GB of storage and strong battery life for considerably less. And if your main priority is screen size and endurance, the Pro Max is the better choice. What do you get that you dont get with the iPhone 17? The biggest advantage is the camera system. The iPhone 18 Pro adds a 48MP Telephoto camera with 4x and 8x optical-quality zoom, plus a variable-aperture 48MP Main camera for improved low-light shooting and greater creative control. You also get the faster A20 Pro chip with a seven-core GPU and improved vapor-chamber cooling for better sustained performance during gaming, video editing and AI tasks. Key specs The iPhone 18 Pro combines Apples new 2nm A20 Pro processor with a sophisticated triple-48MP camera system, including a variable-aperture Main camera and 4x/8x Telephoto. It retains a manageable 6.3-inch ProMotion display while improving sustained performance, battery life and charging speeds. Starts at : $1,199 / 1,199 (256GB) Display : 6.3-inch OLED ProMotion (120Hz) Chip : A20 Pro, 6-core CPU, 7-core GPU Storage : 256GB2TB Cameras : 48MP variable-aperture Main + 48MP Ultra Wide + 48MP Telephoto (4x/8x), 18MP front camera Battery : Up to 36 hours of video playback Should you buy or wait? The iPhone 18 Pro is available now. Buy it if you want the Pro camera system and performance in a smaller phone the Pro Max offers the same cameras. Bargain hunters may prefer to hold off until Amazons Prime Day sale in October, or Black Friday on November 27, when retailers and mobile networks may offer trade-in bonuses, contract incentives or modest discounts. Large outright savings are unlikely so soon after launch. Read our full Apple iPhone 18 Pro review 3. Apple 18 iPhone Pro Max Best for battery life Pros Outstanding battery life Huge 6.9-inch display Excellent Pro cameras Cons Very large and heavy Expensive starting price Price When Reviewed: $1,299 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $1299 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Why we recommend it The iPhone 18 Pro Max is Apples ultimate conventional iPhone, combining a huge 6.9-inch ProMotion display with the powerful A20 Pro chip, Apples best camera system and the longest battery life in the range. Its biggest advantage over the regular Pro is endurance, with Apple rating it for up to 45 hours of video playback. Our testing backs up the battery recommendation: the iPhone 18 Pro Max lasted 25 percent longer than the iPhone 17 Pro Max in our Geekbench 4 battery test, with screen brightness fixed at 200 nits. This is a separate measurement from Apples video-playback rating and provides another reason to choose the Pro Max if endurance is your priority. Buy the iPhone 18 Pro Max if Buy the iPhone 18 Pro Max if you want the largest display on a non-folding iPhone and the longest battery life, regularly use your phone for photography, video, gaming or other demanding tasks, and dont mind carrying a large and relatively heavy device. Its particularly well suited to frequent travellers and heavy users who want to minimise charging. Dont buy iPhone 18 Pro Max if Dont buy it if you prefer a smaller, lighter phone or simply want the Pro cameras and performance. The iPhone 18 Pro offers essentially the same A20 Pro chip, camera system and Pro features in a more manageable 6.3-inch design for $100/100 less. At 249g, the Pro Max is also particularly heavy. What do you get that you dont get with the iPhone 18 Pro? Not much in terms of features. Both models have the same A20 Pro processor, triple-48MP camera system, variable-aperture Main camera and storage options up to 2TB. The Pro Max instead gives you a larger 6.9-inch display rather than 6.3 inches and substantially better battery life: up to 45 hours of video playback versus 36 hours on the iPhone 18 Pro. You pay an extra $100/100 for those advantages. Key specs The iPhone 18 Pro Max combines Apples huge 6.9-inch ProMotion display with the new 2nm A20 Pro chip, three 48MP rear cameras and a variable-aperture Main camera. Its defining advantage is battery life, reaching up to 45 hours of video playback. Starts at : $1,299 / 1,299 (256GB) Display : 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED ProMotion (120Hz) Chip : A20 Pro, 6-core CPU, 7-core GPU Storage : 256GB2TB Cameras : 48MP variable-aperture Main + 48MP Ultra Wide + 48MP Telephoto, 18MP front camera Battery : Up to 45 hours of video playback Should you buy or wait? The iPhone 18 Pro Max is available now. Choose it over the smaller Pro if longer battery life and a larger display justify the extra cost and weight. If your current phone lasts comfortably through the day, there is less urgency to upgrade, and waiting for a discount could make sense. Compare the total cost of carrier offers and trade-ins with buying outright. Bargain hunters may prefer to wait for Amazons Prime Day sales in October or Black Friday on November 27. Major outright discounts are unlikely so soon after launch, although trade-in offers and contract incentives could be worthwhile. 4. Apple iPhone Duo Best foldable iPhone Pros Innovative folding display Excellent multitasking potential Strong A20 Pro performance Cons Extremely expensive Weaker camera versatility Price When Reviewed: $1999 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $1999 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Why we recommend it The iPhone Duo offers something no other iPhone can: a compact phone that unfolds into a 7.6-inch tablet-like device. The larger display gives you considerably more room for multitasking, watching video, reading, gaming and creative work, while the outer screen keeps it usable as a conventional phone when closed. Add the A20 Pro chip and clever dual-screen features, and its easily Apples most innovative iPhone. The first independent reviews praise the Duos hinge, displays and hardware design, supporting its appeal for buyers who want something different. Buy iPhone Duo if Buy the iPhone Duo if you want the versatility of an iPhone and small tablet in one device, regularly multitask between apps, consume lots of content on your phone, or simply want Apples most distinctive new hardware. Its particularly compelling if you value screen space and flexibility more than having Apples absolute best camera system. Dont buy iPhone Duo if Dont buy the Duo if value, photography or portability are your priorities. At $1,999/1,999 it costs $800/800 more than the iPhone 18 Pro, while lacking Face ID, a dedicated telephoto camera, variable aperture, ProRes and the Action button. At 254g it is also the heaviest iPhone in the range. For most buyers, the iPhone 18 Pro or Pro Max will be a better all-round purchase. Check your most-used apps before buying, too. In the initial reviews , Toms Guide and Wired encountered apps that displayed black bars rather than filling the larger screen, and Toms Guide found poorly fitting game layouts. App updates may improve this. What do you get that you dont get with the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max? The Duos defining advantage is its 7.6-inch folding display, which offers around 50 percent more screen area than the iPhone 18 Pro Max and supports Split View multitasking, while the 5.4-inch outer screen keeps it usable like a compact iPhone when closed. You also get fold-specific features such as Duo Preview, Smart Take, Kid Cue, hands-free video positioning and an under-display inner camera, with Apple Pencil USB-C support coming later in 2026. The trade-off is photography: the Duo has only two 48MP rear cameras, with no dedicated telephoto, variable aperture, ProRes or Apple Log. Key specs The iPhone Duo transforms from a compact 5.4-inch phone into a 7.6-inch folding device, providing substantially more room for apps, video and multitasking. It combines two 120Hz ProMotion OLED displays with the A20 Pro chip, dual 48MP cameras, and storage up to 2TB. Starts at : $1,999 / 1,999 (256GB) Displays : 5.4-inch outer + 7.6-inch folding OLED, ProMotion (120Hz) Chip : A20 Pro Storage : 256GB2TB Cameras : 48MP Main + 48MP Ultra Wide, 12MP outer front camera + under-display inner camera Battery (Apples ratings) : Up to 44 hours of video playback on outer display; 31 hours on inner display Authentication : Touch ID Weight : 254g Early battery reports differ: CNET found the Duo comfortably lasted through a busy day, while The Verge questioned its endurance under heavy use. Their methods and usage differ, so these observations are not directly comparable tests or equivalents of Apples video-playback ratings. Should you buy or wait? The iPhone Duo goes on sale October 23, but launch-day availability is limited . Apple says its stores will have some stock for walk-in customers. Otherwise, you can order the iPhone Duo from Apple now, but as of late October, waits stretch to around January 25, 2027. Independent reviews are now available, so read those before committing $1,999/1,999. We recommend trying the folding design and checking your essential apps before buying. Longer-term durability remains an open question that early reviews cannot settle. 5. Apple iPhone 17e Best budget iPhone Pros Excellent budget value Strong A19 performance 256GB base storage Cons No ProMotion display No Ultra Wide camera Price When Reviewed: $699 (was $599) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Why we recommend it The iPhone 17e is Apples most affordable current iPhone, offering modern performance and Apple Intelligence without flagship pricing. It combines the A19 chip with useful upgrades including MagSafe and 256GB of base storage. If you dont need multiple cameras or a high-refresh-rate display, it delivers the essentials at an attractive price. Buy the iPhone 17e if Buy the iPhone 17e if you want a modern iPhone with strong performance and years of software support for as little as possible. Its particularly appealing to anyone upgrading from an iPhone 12 or 13, switching from Android or buying their first iPhone. Dont buy iPhone 17e if Dont buy it if you want ProMotion, an Always-On display, Dynamic Island or a versatile camera system. If your budget stretches another $200/200, the iPhone 17 is a substantially more complete phone. What do you get that you dont get with the iPhone 16? The iPhone 17e gives you the newer A19 chip, longer battery life, 256GB of storage as standard, Apples newer C1X modem and Ceramic Shield 2 protection. Its biggest advantage, however, is value: at similar real-world prices, it is generally the smarter long-term purchase. What dont you get that you get with the iPhone 17? The iPhone 17 gives you a larger and significantly more advanced 6.3-inch 120Hz ProMotion display with Dynamic Island and Always-On support, plus a second 48MP Ultra Wide camera. You also get a better 18MP Centre Stage selfie camera, stronger graphics performance and longer battery life. The 17e covers the essentials extremely well, but the iPhone 17 feels much more complete. Key specs The iPhone 17e pairs the A19 chip with a 6.1-inch OLED display, 256GB of storage as standard and up to 26 hours of battery life, while omitting premium features such as Dynamic Island, ProMotion and an Ultra Wide camera. Starts at : $599 / 599 (256GB) Display : 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED Chip : A19 Storage : 256GB512GB Cameras : 48MP Fusion Main with 2x optical-quality zoom + 12MP TrueDepth front camera Battery : Up to 26 hours of video playback Should you buy or wait? Buy now. The iPhone 17e offers excellent value and isnt expected to be replaced until early 2027. Discounts could make it even more attractive, but theres little reason to delay purely for the next generation. Read our full Apple iPhone 17e review 6. Apple iPhone Air Best thin-and-light iPhone Pros Exceptionally thin design Light and comfortable Powerful A19 Pro chip Cons Single rear camera Relatively modest battery life Price When Reviewed: $1,099 (was $999) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Why we recommend it The iPhone Airs defining feature is its exceptionally thin 5.6mm titanium design, making it noticeably lighter and more comfortable than other large-screen iPhones. Despite its slim profile, it still delivers flagship-level performance with the A19 Pro chip and a bright 120Hz ProMotion display. Its the iPhone to choose if portability and design matter more than camera versatility or maximum battery life. Buy the iPhone Air if Buy the iPhone Air if you want a premium large-screen iPhone that feels exceptionally thin and light in the hand. Its ideal for buyers prepared to sacrifice some camera flexibility and battery life in exchange for a much sleeker design. Dont buy iPhone Air if Dont buy it if photography or battery life are higher priorities. The iPhone 17 offers a more versatile dual-camera system for less money, while a Pro model is better suited to demanding photographers and power users. What do you get that you dont get with the iPhone 17? The iPhone Airs biggest advantage is its exceptionally thin and light titanium design. You also get a slightly larger 6.5-inch display, the more powerful A19 Pro chip and storage options up to 1TB. Those benefits come at the expense of the iPhone 17s useful 48MP Ultra Wide camera, making the Air primarily a choice for buyers who value design and portability over versatility. Key specs The iPhone Air is Apples thinnest iPhone, combining a 6.5-inch display with an ultra-light titanium design. Despite measuring just 5.64mm thick, it still delivers flagship performance with the A19 Pro chip, a 120Hz ProMotion display, Ceramic Shield 2 and fast charging Starts at : $999 / 999 (256GB) Display : 6.5-inch OLED ProMotion (120Hz) Chip : A19 Pro (5-core GPU) Storage : 256GB1TB Cameras : 48MP Main + 18MP Centre Stage front camera Battery : Up to 27 hours of video playback Should you buy or wait? Buy now if you love the Airs distinctive thin-and-light design: there isnt another iPhone quite like it. However, its also a model that frequently attracts discounts, particularly in the U.K., so its worth shopping around rather than paying full price. Read our full Apple iPhone Air (2025) review 7. Apple iPhone 16 Best previous-generation deal Pros Good dual cameras Apple Intelligence support Cons Only 128GB storage Poor value full price Price When Reviewed: $799 (was $699) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $829 View Deal $829.99 View Deal $829.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Why we recommend it The iPhone 16 still delivers fast everyday performance thanks to its A18 chip, supports Apple Intelligence and includes a versatile dual-camera system with an excellent 48MP Main camera. Its main appeal in the current lineup, however, is price: it only makes sense when discounted significantly below the newer models. Buy iPhone 16 if Buy the iPhone 16 if you find it heavily discounted and want Apple Intelligence, a capable dual-camera system and features such as Camera Control and the Action button without paying for the latest generation. Dont buy iPhone 16 if Dont buy it at full price. The iPhone 17e offers newer hardware, twice the base storage and longer battery life for less, while the iPhone 17 is considerably more advanced for only a little more money. What do you get that you dont get with the iPhone 17e? The iPhone 16 has a second 12MP Ultra Wide camera, giving it greater photographic versatility, as well as Camera Control and the Action button. Those features may make it preferable to the 17e for photography-minded buyers, but only if the price is right. What do you miss compared with the iPhone 17? The iPhone 17 gives you a larger 6.3-inch ProMotion Always-On display, newer A19 processor, upgraded 48MP Ultra Wide camera, improved 18MP Centre Stage selfie camera, longer battery life and 256GB of storage as standard. Unless the iPhone 16 is heavily discounted, the 17 is easily worth the difference. Key specs The iPhone 16 combines the A18 chip with a 48MP Fusion Main camera, 12MP Ultra Wide camera, Camera Control, the Action button and Apple Intelligence support. It remains a capable smartphone, but its 128GB starting storage and older display make it less compelling than the newer iPhone 17e and iPhone 17. Starts at : $699 / 699 Display : 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED Chip : A18 Storage : 128GB512GB Cameras : 48MP Main + 12MP Ultra Wide Battery : Up to 22 hours of video playback Should you buy or wait? Dont buy at full price. Only consider the iPhone 16 if its heavily discounted below the iPhone 17e; otherwise, Apples newer models offer substantially better value. Read our full Apple iPhone 16 review Which iPhone has the best camera? iPhone 18 Pro Apple The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max have the best camera systems of any current iPhone. Both models 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 Main camera with variable aperture, which gives photographers more control over depth of field and should improve low-light performance. The Pro models also include a 48MP Ultra Wide camera and a 48MP Telephoto camera with 4x and 8x optical-quality zoom, giving them far more flexibility than Apples cheaper iPhones. The standard iPhone 17 is still an excellent camera phone, with 48MP Main and Ultra Wide cameras, plus an improved 18MP Centre Stage front camera. For everyday photography it will be more than enough for most people, but it lacks the dedicated telephoto lens, longer zoom and advanced video features of the Pro models. The iPhone Duo is more compromised. Despite its premium price, it has only two 48MP rear cameras and lacks a dedicated telephoto camera, variable aperture, ProRes and Apple Log. Its strengths are instead its fold-specific shooting features and dual-screen flexibility. The iPhone Air and iPhone 17e are the least versatile, with just a single 48MP rear camera. Our choice : If photography and video are your priority, buy the iPhone 18 Pro . It offers the same camera system as the Pro Max for less money and in a more manageable size. Which iPhone has the best battery life? iPhone 18 Pro Max Bigger iPhone means bigger battery. Apple 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 smaller iPhone 18 Pro and makes battery life one of the strongest reasons to choose the Pro Max. The iPhone Duo comes surprisingly close, with up to 44 hours of video playback when using its outer 5.4-inch display. 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 endurance is your priority. The iPhone 18 Pro is also excellent, offering up to 36 hours of video playback. That makes it a good compromise if you want strong battery life without carrying the much larger and heavier Pro Max. Further down the range, the iPhone 17 offers up to 30 hours, making it the best mainstream option for battery life. The iPhone Air manages around 27 hours despite its exceptionally thin design, while the iPhone 17e reaches 26 hours. The older iPhone 16 trails the current lineup at up to 22 hours of video playback. Our choice : If battery life matters above everything else, the iPhone 18 Pro Max is the clear winner. Its combination of a 45-hour rating, huge 6.9-inch display and Pro-level performance makes it particularly well suited to heavy users, travellers and anyone who wants to get through a long day without worrying about charging. Heres how the current iPhone lineup compares in terms of battery life Model Video Playback (Apples rating) Geekbench 4 Test (minutes) Wired Charging (50% time) iPhone 18 Pro Max Up to 43 hours TBC ~15 min (60W+) iPhone Duo Up to 44 hours outer / 31 hours inner TBC ~20 min (60W+) iPhone 18 Pro Up to 34 hours TBC ~15 min (60W+) iPhone 17 Up to 30 hours 1,053 ~20 min (40W) iPhone Air Up to 27 hours 880 ~30 min (20W) iPhone 17e Up to 26 hours 854 ~30 min (20W) iPhone 16 Up to 24 hours 867 ~30 min (20W) What is the best value iPhone? iPhone 17 Hannah Cowton-Barnes / Foundry The iPhone 17 offers the best overall value for money in Apples current lineup. The iPhone 17e is cheaper, but the extra $200/200 for the iPhone 17 buys a surprisingly large number of worthwhile upgrades. You get a larger 6.3-inch 120Hz ProMotion display with Always-On support and Dynamic Island, rather than the 17es standard 60Hz 6.1-inch screen. The iPhone 17 also adds a second 48MP Ultra Wide camera, including macro photography, along with a better 18MP Centre Stage front camera. Battery life is stronger too, at up to 30 hours of video playback, compared with 26 hours on the iPhone 17e. You also get stronger graphics performance and a more premium overall experience, while both phones start with a generous 256GB of storage. At $799/799, the iPhone 17 also compares very favourably with the older iPhone 16. For just $100/100 more, you get double the base storage, ProMotion, a larger and brighter display, improved cameras, the newer A19 chip and significantly better battery life. If your priority is spending as little as possible, choose the iPhone 17e which delivers excellent performance for $599/599. Or seek out a refurbished iPhone from the Apple Refurbished Store or another place that sells refurbished iPhones . Our choice : In terms of the features and hardware you get for every pound or dollar spent, the iPhone 17 is the sweet spot. For most buyers, it delivers the best balance of price, performance, cameras, display quality, battery life and longevity without paying for Pro-level features they may never use. Even better if you can find a iPhone 17 deal , then you are really getting a bargain. Best iPhone for gaming: iPhone 18 Pro Foundry The iPhone 18 Pro is the best iPhone for gaming for most people, thanks to its combination of the A20 Pro chip, seven-core GPU and improved vapor-chamber cooling. The A20 Pro is Apples fastest iPhone processor, but the cooling system is just as important for gaming. Better heat management should help the iPhone 18 Pro maintain high performance for longer during demanding games, rather than slowing down as the phone gets hot. Its 6.3-inch 120Hz ProMotion display also provides smooth animation and responsive gameplay without making the phone excessively large or heavy. The iPhone 18 Pro Max offers essentially the same gaming performance, but adds a much larger 6.9-inch display and significantly longer battery life. That arguably makes it the best choice for serious mobile gamers who value screen size and endurance, although it is heavier and costs more. The iPhone Duo also uses the A20 Pro and has an enormous 7.6-inch folding display, which could be fantastic for some games, but its weight, price and unconventional form factor make it a more specialised choice. Our choice : For most gamers, the iPhone 18 Pro offers the best balance of performance, cooling, display quality and portability. Its the best choice if you prefer a more pocketable device but still want top-tier gaming power. Best iPhone for seniors and older users: iPhone 17e David Price / Foundry For most older users, the iPhone 17e is probably the best choice, because it combines a relatively simple feature set with modern performance, strong battery life and a lower price than Apples flagship models. Its 6.1-inch OLED display is large enough to make text, icons and controls easy to see without making the phone too bulky, while the A19 chip should keep it feeling fast for years. It also supports Apple Intelligence and starts with 256GB of storage, so theres plenty of room for photos, apps and videos. The iPhone 17 is a better option for someone who would benefit from a larger and more advanced display. Its 6.3-inch ProMotion screen, Always-On support and higher brightness can make scrolling, reading and outdoor use more comfortable. It also offers stronger battery life and better cameras, although it costs more. We dont recommend the iPhone Air, Pro Max or Duo for older users. The Air sacrifices battery life and camera flexibility for thinness, while the Pro Max and Duo are much heavier and considerably more expensive. Our choice : iPhone 17e is the perfect choice for most older users. Best iPhone for kids: iPhone 17e Ida Blix The iPhone 17e is the best iPhone for most children . As Apples most affordable current-generation model, it offers the best balance of price, performance and longevity, while being easier to justify than a flagship model if it gets lost or damaged. It uses the same A19 chip as the iPhone 17, albeit with one fewer GPU core, so its easily fast enough for games, social media, schoolwork and Apple Intelligence. Battery life is strong, the 6.1-inch OLED display is a sensible size for smaller hands, and the 48MP camera is more than capable for everyday photos, even though it lacks an Ultra Wide lens. The iPhone 17 is the better choice for older teenagers who care more about photography, video or display quality. It adds a 48MP Ultra Wide camera, a better front camera and a larger 6.3-inch ProMotion display, but costs considerably more. A hand-me-down iPhone is also worth considering. Its the cheapest option and better for the environment, provided you erase the phone first, create a Child Account through Family Sharing, and configure Screen Time and parental controls before handing it over. Read: How to set up an iPhone for a child . Whichever iPhone you choose, those controls matter. In iOS 27 , Apple is expanding Screen Time with new category-based Time Allowances, Ask to Browse, more flexible app schedules and improved contact controls. Communication Safety can also detect and blur sensitive, violent or graphic content. For very young children, an iPad may still be a better first Apple device. By the time they reach 11 or 12 though, an iPhone becomes much more useful for staying in touch. Our choice : iPhone 17e for most kids; iPhone 17 for older teens who want better cameras and display quality. Should you buy an older iPhone? Macwelt Buying an older iPhone can be a great way to save money, but the key is choosing a model that still has plenty of useful life ahead of it. Apple typically provides around five to seven years of major iOS updates , with security updates often continuing for longer, so a relatively recent iPhone can remain perfectly usable for years. We wouldnt recommend simply buying the cheapest iPhone you can find. Very old models may technically run recent versions of iOS, but performance, battery condition and access to newer features can become increasingly compromised. We currently recommend avoiding anything older than the iPhone 15 Pro because even the iPhone 15 doesnt support Apple Intelligence. You should definitely avoid models such as the iPhone XS and XR that can no longer run the latest iOS releases. A refurbished recent-generation iPhone can offer particularly good value. You may be able to buy a former Pro model with better cameras and displays for less than a new entry-level iPhone. Buying from a reputable refurbisher is important, however: check the warranty, battery condition, returns policy and whether genuine replacement parts have been used. Apples own refurbished iPhones include a new battery and outer shell and come with a one-year warranty. Our advice : A discounted or refurbished iPhone 16 or newer should offer an excellent combination of price, features and longevity.
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Sopore Bypass Bridge Lane to Remain Closed for 10 Days for Repair Work
Sopore, Oct 22: The authorities have ordered the temporary closure of one lane of the Sopore Bypass Bridge for 10 days, from October 22 to October 31, 2026, to facilitate necessary repair work. According to an official order issued by the District Magistrate, Baramulla, permission has been granted for the temporary closure of one lane of the bridge at kilometre 1.954 on the Sopore Bypass Road. The order follows a request from the Officer Commanding, EE (Civil), 56 RCC (GREF), seeking permission to carry out the required repairs. The Additional Deputy Commissioner, Sopore, and the Senior Superintendent of Police, Sopore, have been directed to formulate an appropriate traffic management plan in consultation with the concerned departments and stakeholders. The plan aims to ensure smooth vehicular movement and minimise inconvenience to commuters during the repair period. The authorities have also been directed to consult members of the Fruit Growers Association, Sopore, in view of the town's importance as a major fruit trading centre and the ongoing apple season. Sopore Fruit Mandi witnesses substantial movement of trucks and other vehicles transporting fresh produce to various markets across the country. Any disruption in the movement of fruit-laden vehicles during the peak trading season could pose logistical challenges for fruit growers, transporters and traders. The proposed traffic management plan is expected to take into account the requirements of local residents, daily commuters, commercial vehicles and apple transporters to ensure orderly traffic movement while the repair work is underway. Commuters and transporters have been advised to follow official traffic advisories, adhere to the directions of traffic personnel and cooperate with the authorities during the repair period. The repair work is intended to address the bridge's maintenance requirements. Both lanes are expected to reopen after the completion of the necessary repairs.
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Ukraine's strikes on Russian data centres disrupt key services, derail AI research
Moscow, Oct 22: Russia prides itself on its digital advances -- from an extensive e-commerce services sector to ambitious plans for developing artificial intelligence. But now, some of the key data centres at the heart of its technical prowess have been knocked out by Ukrainian drone attacks in the 4.5-year-old full-scale invasion, suffering damage that could take a long time to repair. Ukraine this month hit three main data centres belonging to tech giant Yandex, one for Russia's biggest bank, Sberbank, and one for social media platform VKontakte, the country's equivalent to Facebook. While Yandex, Sberbank and VKontakte are coy about the damage, people and businesses across Russia have reported widespread interruptions to cloud services. Banking, e-commerce, geolocation and ride-hailing services, as well as Alisa, Yandex's virtual assistant, and multimodal AI chatbots all have suffered lasting disruptions. The fallout even spread to Russia's judicial system, reportedly forcing arbitration courts to cancel or postpone sessions and cutting database access. Most experts predict repairing the damage could take months, if not years. Some warn that Moscow's aspirations to become a leader in AI development could be significantly set back. This effectively sets Russia far behind in the AI race, said Mikhail Klimarev, head of the Internet Protection Society activist group. Data centres have been hit by both sides in the war Data centres are the latest targets of aerial campaigns waged by both sides against each other's vital infrastructure. Russian missiles and drones have pummelled Ukraine's power grid and other key sites, part of Kremlin efforts to weaken morale and resistance. Moscow stepped up those attacks as winter approaches, taking advantage of a shortage of US-supplied Patriot interceptors, whose stockpiles have been drained by Washington's war with Iran. Ukraine retaliated with waves of drone attacks against Russian oil refineries, triggering a massive fuel crisis and bringing the war home to millions of civilians. US President Donald Trump has blamed the attacks for higher global oil prices, which have escalated largely due to the US war in Iran. Earlier this month, Trump struck a deal with President Vladimir Putin to import diesel oil, shocking Ukraine and its allies. Ukraine also hit huge warehouses for Russia's top online retailers, Wildberries and Ozon. Kyiv's attacks on Russian data centres closely followed Moscow's recent strikes on data centres in Ukraine, which disrupted the internet and TV broadcasts. On October 8, Ukrainian drones hit a Yandex data centre in Sasovo in the Ryazan region that houses two of the company's three supercomputers. A data centre in Kaluga was hit a day later and the one in Vladimir was struck October 11. The data centre and AI hub for Sberbank was hit October 14 in Balakovo in the Saratov region, and four days later, Kyiv struck a data centre in St. Petersburg serving VKontakte. Data centres are vulnerable While oil refineries and warehouses are easy prey, data centres are even softer targets -- massive buildings packed with servers and supporting power and cooling infrastructure. Lasting damage can result from a drone carrying a relatively light load of explosives. The vulnerability of data centres was exposed by Iran, whose drones hit two Amazon Web Services data centres in the United Arab Emirates and one in Bahrain. AWS said last month it was unable to restore access to the resources and data hosted at two of them. Yandex has run drills for an accident that could incapacitate one of its six data centres, but it was caught unprepared when its three key facilities were hit over four days. It wasn't immediately clear why air defences near the sites had failed. The problem in Russia is that they've got to cover a big country with air defence and they don't have enough, said Nick Reiners, senior geotechnology analyst at Eurasia Group. Russia's efforts to build a sovereign internet backfire Ukraine has stored critical data on servers in allied European countries, helping limit the damage from Russian attacks. But Moscow's strict digital sovereignty policy requires all data storage at home, making it extremely vulnerable. Because all the infrastructure and all the data is located inside Russia, it's relatively easier to take down, Reiners said. Klimarev predicted the data centre attacks could encourage many top Russian companies to move data abroad, while the authorities could ease their efforts to tighten internet controls to minimise the damage. Paradoxically, the strikes on data centres have saved the Russian internet from isolation, as they will now have to move computing assets, most likely, to Europe, Klimarev said. It's quite likely that many Russian businesses are now roaming the European market to rent computing assets. Russians are vexed by service disruptions Yandex dominates digital life in Russia and many former Soviet nations. It provides a wide variety of functions, including a search engine, cloud storage, payment apps, geolocation and ride-hailing services, and e-commerce platforms. Yandex is kind of like Uber and Amazon and Google and everything rolled into one, with everything concentrated in just a few data centres, Reiners said. From a strategic perspective, they're an excellent target. The attacks on Yandex caused unprecedented disruptions, paralysing payments, online orders, taxi rides and access to personal data. Moscow resident Igor Mann said he couldn't collect an order he placed with Yandex Market, an e-commerce platform. He said he tried using a virtual private network, but nothing worked. Taxi driver Pavel Belyavskiy, who gets orders via Yandex's ride-hailing app, couldn't connect with passengers. On several orders already, I've ended up waiting for a long time and had to cancel the ride because I couldn't even get in touch with the passenger, he said. The attacks also caused temporary disruptions at some major companies and banks that rely on Yandex cloud services. It's not just about convenience -- it's also about work ... tied to everyday life, said another Moscow resident, Eduard Malyavko. A blow to Russia's AI ambitions Yandex said it restored most key cloud services in the following days as it turned to other data centres in Russia. But the damage to the company's AI development efforts is widely seen as massive and longer-lasting. Yandex has invested in huge data centres as the global AI boom fuels demand for computing power. The company's three supercomputers used to develop models are ranked among the top 500 in the world. Its most powerful computer -- at the Sasovo data centre -- was ranked 19th. Yandex didn't disclose the extent of the strikes' consequences, but satellite images indicated its data centres sustained serious damage. Some observers noted that fires triggered by the attacks probably seriously damaged high-end chips and other key equipment. With this kind of hit, it's hard to expect that at least something was left intact -- the data centres' equipment is fragile, demanding and expensive, Klimarev said. Soot from the fire is bad for electronics. While Russia already lagged years behind the US and China, Ukraine's drone strikes will likely still set back Russian AI efforts further, said Connor Martin, an expert with the Council for Foreign Relations. He said in a commentary that Russia likely will struggle to quickly replace the US-designed Nvidia A100 chips powering Yandex's supercomputers. Klimarev also said the global deficit of high-end chips, combined with the sanctions on their delivery to Russia, will make repairs long and costly. I'm not sure it can be done in half a year, a year, or even at all, he said.
