Pakistan: Islamabad must act as PoK burns

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 6 (IANS) What began as protests over rising electricity tariffs, wheat prices, and governance failures has evolved into a broader challenge to Pakistan's administrative model in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Gilgit-Baltistan, exposing a reality that Islamabad has long sought to bury. What it tried to conceal behind a false faade were deep political dissatisfaction, economic grievances, and growing demands for accountability in territories under Pakistan's control. In recent times, PoK has witnessed repeated waves of agitation led by civil society groups such as the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC). Residents have protested against inflation, high costs, shortages of essential goods, and what they view as systematic neglect by Islamabad. Investigators from the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan also noted that the large-scale protests in 2024 were driven by demands for subsidised electricity and flour, greater accountability, and an end to excessive privileges enjoyed by political elites and bureaucrats. Local unrest stems from grievances against the local administrations as well as the political system through which Pakistan governs these territories. Critics argue that key decisions affecting political representation, resource management and security remain heavily influenced by Islamabad, limiting genuine local autonomy. The evolving economic aspect of the present crisis is more damaging for Pakistan's narrative, where protesters frequently point out that while PoJK generates substantial hydropower resources, residents have to shell out high electricity charges and inconsistent services. Along with demands for lower tariffs, wheat subsidies and a fairer share of resource revenues have become recurring themes in protests in the region. In response, authorities have clamped down with renewed oppression rather than addressing the tensions. Reports of communication blackouts, mass arrests, deployment of security forces and violent clashes have accompanied successive protest movements. Unrest continued through 2025 and 2026, and led to multiple deaths and injuries, highlighting the widening gap between public expectations and state responses. Another contentious issue has been the reservation of legislative seats for refugees from Jammu and Kashmir who reside elsewhere in Pakistan. Residents have argued that these reserved seats distort regional representation and enable Islamabad to retain influence over political outcomes in the territory. The controversy has evolved into a wider debate about democratic legitimacy and self-governance. Similar concern is arising from the situation in Gilgit-Baltistan, where residents have repeatedly raised questions about constitutional status, political representation, taxation and the exploitation of local resources. Observers note that despite its strategic importance and natural wealth, the region continues to face demands for greater autonomy and more meaningful participation in decision-making processes. Such developments raise an uncomfortable question for Pakistan: if Islamabad is unable to effectively govern territories already under its administrative control, how credible are its claims regarding the future of the broader Jammu and Kashmir issue? Pakistan has consistently sought to internationalise developments within India, while unrest in its own territory increasingly highlights governance deficits at home. Yet, while Islamabad regularly focuses attention on developments across the Line of Control, growing sections of the population in PoK and Gilgit-Baltistan are questioning their own political arrangements and demanding solutions to local problems. Allegations that local institutions operate under strong federal influence have further fueled perceptions of democratic deficits. The recurring cycles of protest in Pakistan suggest structural governance issues that cannot be permanently managed through crackdowns or oppression. Ultimately, the PoK turmoil and Gilgit-Baltistan underscore a larger contradiction. Even as Islamabad continues to project itself as an advocate for Kashmiri aspirations, it is facing growing criticism from residents in territories it already administers. The continuing protests, Islamabad's use of political manipulation and military suppression, and disputes over resource distribution suggest that Pakistan's immediate challenge lies not across the LoC but within areas under its own control.

Telangana Police to launch Fit Cop to monitor health of 90,000 personnel

Digital Desk | Hyderabad, Nov 6 (IANS) The Telangana Police Department is set to roll out Fit Cop, an app-based comprehensive health management initiative aimed at monitoring and improving the health and well-being of more than 90,000 police personnel across the State. Director General of Police C.V. Anand said on Friday that police personnel, owing to demanding duties and work-related stress, often find little time to focus on their health. Emphasising that physically and mentally healthy personnel were essential for delivering better public service, he said the initiative was being developed with the support of the Helping Hand Foundation and other organisations. The proposed TG FitCop, designed as a Police Health Management Profile System, will enable personnel to register their individual health details through a dedicated mobile application. The department is working on an action plan to implement the programme within the next 30 to 45 days. According to a release from the DGPs office, the application will collect information on major health parameters, including diabetes, hypertension, Body Mass Index (BMI), existing health conditions, lifestyle habits, physical activity, smoking and alcohol consumption. Personnel across the State will be able to access the system using their mobile phone number. Based on the information submitted, personnel will be categorised into low-, moderate- and high-risk groups. The health risk assessment will help identify individuals who require medical attention and timely intervention. Explaining the proposed support mechanism, Helping Hand Foundation founder Salman said personnel would be contacted through a dedicated call centre based on their health risk levels. Those requiring further attention would be facilitated with medical investigations, hospital-based treatment, health guidance and counselling. The initiative is expected to help identify potential health complications, particularly kidney-related ailments, diabetes and hypertension, at an early stage and facilitate timely medical intervention. The primary objective of Fit Cop is to promote health awareness among police personnel and encourage preventive healthcare before medical conditions become serious. The programme will be extended to all units and wings of the Telangana Police. DGP Anand expressed the hope that Fit Cop would emerge as an important institutional mechanism for safeguarding the health of police personnel and ensuring their overall well-being. Senior police officers, representatives of the Helping Hand Foundation and other participating organisations attended the meeting.

'Americans Have No Money To Buy Medicines': U.S. Senator EXPOSES Ugly Reality Under Trump | Watch

Bernie Sanders unveils Democrats' agenda against Trump after winning back control of Congress, demanding sweeping political and economic changes. Sanders says voters have rejected authoritarianism and calls on Democrats to tackle record wealth inequality through a billionaire wealth tax. He also demands an end to the US war in Iran, cuts to military spending and an end to funding for Israel's government. The progressive senator warns Democrats cannot ignore the crises facing America when they assume power in January.#BernieSanders #Democrats #Trump #USMidterms #Congress #WealthTax #ElonMusk #IncomeInequality #IranWar #Pentagon #USPolitics #DonaldTrump #Israel

Hundreds rally in Manipurs Ukhrul demanding end to ethnic violence and SoO pact

Europe Still Sees Trump As Powerful, Especially in Foreign Policy

The commanding victory of the Democrats has brought private relief to some Europeans but no official glee, with Ukraine, Iran and NATO all hanging in the balance.

Polavaram project-displaced families boycott polling, demand separate panchayat

Voters in Koruturu R&R Colony stayed away from the polling centre, demanding a separate panchayat after being placed under P. Ankampalem panchayat

IPL Stars Seek Rs 40 Cr as Retention Fee

Some of the IPL's biggest stars are reportedly demanding Rs 40 crore to be retained ahead of the 2027 season.

Xabi Alonso Explains Why There Are No Easy Games In The Premier League

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has stressed the demanding nature of the Premier League, saying there are no easy fixtures in the competition and teams cannot afford to lose focus even for a moment

CJP To Hold Anti-SIR Protest In Kochi; Abhijeet Dipke To Join November 7 Stir

The CJP will hold a November 7 protest in Kochi demanding cancellation of SIR and removal of CEC Gyanesh Kumar.

Taking reforms to the road: From Ranchi protest to a Statewide yatra

The students protest in Ranchi over alleged irregularities in Jharkhands recruitment exams for government jobs has remained in the news for most of August. Amit Bhelari examines the fallout of the governments decision to cancel exams, which has left both aspiring candidates and already-appointed government employees caught in the dispute. It has pushed student leader Devendra Nath Mahto from a prolonged protest in Ranchi to a Statewide yatra demanding transparency, accountability and reforms in the government recruitment system

How Venus Williams Inspired Janice Tjen Ahead Of Chennai Open Defense

Indonesian tennis sensation Janice Tjen returns to Chennai to defend her WTA singles title, reflecting on a demanding season where she learned to manage expectations and bounce back from setbacks. She discusses the increased competition on the WTA Tour, the growing popularity of tennis in Indonesia, and the invaluable lessons learned from playing doubles with Venus Williams. Tjen also credits her parents' strict upbringing and her collegiate pathway for instilling the resilience needed to navigate professional tennis.

Jammu And Kashmir News | NC President Farooq Abdullah Says No Dissension In Party Post MLAs Meet

National Conference president Farooq Abdullah has denied any dissent within the party after meeting disgruntled MLAs in Srinagar. He said their concerns were genuine and would be addressed, some immediately and others over time. However, the dissenting legislators have reportedly set a 15-day deadline, demanding a complete cabinet overhaul and removal of all eight existing ministers. They have also sought the removal of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's adviser Nasir Aslam Wani. The leadership faces pressure to resolve the internal differences.

X says police order demanding removal of Indian free-speech groups

BENGALURU, Nov 6 (Reuters) Police orders asking X to block online accounts of two of Indias most prominent free speech groups were fake, the social media company told an Indian court on Friday, days after the purported content removal requests sparked a public outcry. The orders, submitted through Xs online reporting form in the name of a senior Delhi police officer, sought the removal of the accounts of the Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) and the Software Freedom Law Centre, India (SFLC.in), claiming they had defamed the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, the Hindu nationalist group from which Prime Minister Narendra Modis

Baloch activist urges UN to hold Pakistan accountable for human rights violations in Balochistan

Digital Desk | Geneva, Nov 6 (IANS) Baloch National Movement (BNM) Chairman Naseem Baloch raised grave concerns over systematic repression and human rights abuses by Pakistani authorities in Balochistan, during his meeting with members of the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (CESCR) in Geneva urging the Committee to hold Pakistan accountable for failing to meet its international obligations. Naseem also called on the UN to establish a dedicated mechanism to investigate and monitor human rights violations in the region. He also sought a formal platform for the Baloch people to present their concerns directly before the international body. Describing enforced disappearances and collective punishment in detail, he said thousands of Baloch families have lived through this ordeal, and its effects reach far beyond the direct victims. Families lose their breadwinners, children lose their chance at an education, and entire households are pushed into poverty. He also raised concern over the imprisonment of Baloch human rights defenders, including Dr Mahrang Baloch and other leaders of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), the BNM stated. He also cited the 10-year prison sentences handed down to human rights lawyers Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir and her husband, Hadi Ali Chattha, by a Pakistani court, as evidence of a severe crackdown on those who speak out for the rights of the people in Balochistan. Citing Article 1 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), Naseem told the Committee that all people have the right to self-determination and may, for their own ends, freely dispose of their natural wealth and resources. He also referred to other provisions in the covenant, which protect the rights to an adequate standard of living, health and education. Challenging Pakistans claim of compliance with its international obligations, Naseem asked: How can Pakistan claim compliance while these rights are being denied in Balochistan? He told Committee members: We are not asking for sympathy. We are demanding justice, accountability and our fundamental rights. Naseem also attended the Committees formal review session, where a Pakistani delegation of about 12 representatives appeared to respond to questions on the countrys implementation of the Covenant. During the session, Julieta Rossi repeatedly asked about the worsening situation in Balochistan, while Michael Windfuhr also raised issues concerning the region. Their interventions brought the situation in Balochistan into the Committee's formal scrutiny of Pakistan's compliance with the Covenant. At the end of the session, the BNM chairperson submitted dossiers to the Committee Chair and members L. E. Perez and Fiorio Vaesken, documenting human rights violations in Balochistan and their implications under the Covenant.

There're no easy fixtures in Premier League, you cannot switch off for a moment: Xabi Alonso

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 6 (IANS) Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has stressed the demanding nature of the Premier League, saying there are no easy fixtures in the competition and teams cannot afford to lose focus even for a moment, as the quality across the league can punish any lapse in concentration. Chelsea have made a strong start to the 2026-27 Premier League season, sitting fourth in the standings with 16 points from nine matches. Speaking in an interview shared by JioStar, Alonso reflected on the challenges of managing in Englands top-flight competition. The Premier League is a really demanding competition, for sure. I knew about it before joining Chelsea, but once you experience it, you see the level of all the teams and all the players and how challenging each game is. There are no easy fixtures in this league. Every week you face a different test, whether it is a team fighting for the title or one fighting to stay up. That makes us demand a lot from ourselves and prepare for each game with full focus. You cannot switch off for a moment, because the quality across the league will punish you, Alonso said. The Chelsea manager also acknowledged his teams defensive issues and insisted that improving their defensive record remains a priority, adding that several goals conceded this season have resulted from individual mistakes rather than opposition teams breaking through their defensive structure. There isnt just one reason behind our defence conceding a lot of goals, but for sure its one area we are determined to do better in, and I think we will. We are in that process and developing, but we need to compete and know that conceding fewer goals is a must, he said. We need to be more compact as a unit, win our duels, and make better decisions in the final third. The players know this, and they are taking responsibility. Defending is not just about the back four. It starts from the front, with how we press and how we track back, he added. Alonso also identified Palmer as a central attacking midfielder, explaining that the England international is most effective when operating between the oppositions midfield and defensive lines. For me, the best position for Cole Palmer is that of a central attacking midfielder. When Cole gets the ball behind the forwards and in front of the last line of defence, hes able to play the last pass, to have the last dribble, to score goals, and to make the runs. Between the lines is where he hurts teams the most, Alonso said.

Kerala Vigilance probe adds new dimension to Congress campaign against CEC

Digital Desk | New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 6 (IANS) With the Congress leadership preparing to intensify its campaign for the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, Kerala has opened a fresh front with a Vigilance probe into an alleged bribery case dating back to his tenure as a state government official. The two developments have given a new political dimension to the growing confrontation with CEC Kumar, who is already facing a concerted campaign by the INDIA bloc over alleged irregularities in the revision of electoral rolls. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is hosting a gathering of senior party leaders in Delhi on Friday, with Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and other top functionaries expected to attend. Though officially described as a Diwali get-together, the meeting assumes significance amid the party's plans to decide its next course of action against Kumar. Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has also reached the national capital to attend the meeting. The Congress leadership is expected to discuss how to take forward the demand for CEC Kumar's removal, particularly with the next session of Parliament likely to be held later this month. The INDIA bloc is also considering fresh parliamentary moves against the CEC. The Opposition had already held a symbolic public impeachment of CEC Kumar on October 31, followed by a massive rally at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan on November 1. It has been demanding his removal over alleged electoral irregularities. The Kerala development, meanwhile, could add another dimension to the campaign. The state Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau has ordered a Preliminary Enquiry into a complaint alleging that CEC Kumar demanded a bribe of Rs 2 crore when he was the PWD Secretary. The complaint was filed by former contractor Sajan V.O., who was associated with Patibel, the company involved in the Kerala State Transport Project roadworks. Vigilance Director Manoj Abraham has directed the Special Investigation Unit-I to register the enquiry and examine documents and statements from an earlier Vigilance investigation dating back to 2007. The complaint alleges that four bills worth crores of rupees were withheld after the alleged bribe demand was not met. The political and legal implications of the Kerala enquiry are expected to figure in the wider debate over CEC Kumar. However, the Vigilance proceedings and the parliamentary process for removal are separate matters. Under the Constitution, a CEC can be removed only through the procedure applicable to a Supreme Court judge, requiring special majorities in both Houses of Parliament.

Arunachal: No talks on Siang project until detainees freed, armed forces withdrawn, says SIFF

Itanagar: The Siang Indigenous Farmers Forum (SIFF) has declined the Arunachal Pradesh governments invitation for talks on the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), demanding the release of all detainees and withdrawal of armed forces before any dialogue can take place. In a letter dated November 3, the Chief Ministers Office invited SIFF representatives to [] The post Arunachal: No talks on Siang project until detainees freed, armed forces withdrawn, says SIFF appeared first on NorthEast Now .

Sandeep Reddy Vanga calls Ranbir Kapoor and Yash 'Commanding' in 'Ramayana'

No funds for blood tests, shortage of medicines in govt hospitals, says K'taka LoP

Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Nov 6 (IANS) Senior BJP leader and Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Karnataka Assembly R. Ashoka on Friday launched a scathing attack on the Congress government, accusing it of pushing the state towards financial bankruptcy and neglecting the healthcare needs of the poor. Addressing Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and Health Minister U.T. Khader, Ashoka questioned whether the government had brought the state to such a situation that even government hospitals did not have funds for basic blood tests. He alleged that government hospitals, which were meant to serve as a lifeline for the poor, were facing a shortage of funds and that patients were being forced to approach private laboratories and medical stores. Ashoka alleged that while hospitals had equipment, there were no funds available for blood tests. He further claimed that laboratories were being shut and poor patients were being pushed towards private laboratories, alleging that this was part of a commission-driven racket. He also alleged that government hospitals were facing shortages of basic medicines, including cough tablets and paracetamol, forcing poor patients to spend thousands of rupees at private medical stores. Who is responsible for all this? Who should be held accountable? Ashoka questioned. He further alleged that the government did not have funds for blood tests for poor patients or scans for pregnant women and accused it of neglecting public healthcare while benefiting private laboratories. Reacting to reports of alleged fund shortages in government hospitals, Ashoka charged that the Congress government was squeezing the blood of the poor and had reduced the public healthcare system to a state of financial distress. The Congress government has completely looted the state treasury, pushed the government towards bankruptcy and destroyed the entire administrative system. It should be ashamed, he said. In a separate attack on the government, Ashoka alleged that fellowship funds had not been released for 45 research students under the Minority Welfare Department for the past 11 months, pushing financially vulnerable students into debt and distress. He said students, farmers and transport employees had all been pushed into difficulties due to what he termed the Congress government's misgovernance. Listing what he described as examples of the state's financial crisis, Ashoka alleged that the government did not have funds to pay Gruha Lakshmi scheme beneficiaries, clear dues to transport corporations and electricity supply companies, provide drought relief to farmers, purchase diesel for government buses or release fellowships for research students. Ashoka questioned the Chief Minister about the state's finances and asked where the crores of rupees collected through increased taxes and price hikes had gone if the government did not have funds for development across various sectors and for the future of poor students. The government has hit the poor hard and pushed the state into a complete financial crisis. It has no moral right to continue in office, he charged, demanding that the government apologise to the people of Karnataka and resign. Ashoka said the Congress government's days were numbered and alleged that its financial mismanagement and neglect of the poor would ultimately lead to its downfall.

Crucial meeting between CM, dissident legislators set to begin

Srinagar, Nov 06: The meeting between Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and legislators unhappy over the recent cabinet reshuffle-cum-expansion is set to begin shortly at the Gupkar residence of National Conference president Dr. Farooq Abdullah. Sources said that the MLAs have arrived at the venue in the morning. The meeting is being held in a bid to pacify the legislators and prevent further widening of differences within the party. As already reported, the NC top brass had this morning asked the aggrieved legislators to keep independent MLAs out of the delegation meeting the Chief Minister and the party president. The aggrieved legislators are understood to have the support of three independent MLAs, who have been backing them over the reshuffle issue. Muzaffar Khan, MLA Thanamandi, is not attending the meeting, sources said. The legislators are upset over being ignored in the recent reshuffle-cum-expansion and have sought redressal of their grievances from the party leadership. The outcome of the meeting is likely to decide the future course of the dissenting camp within the National Conference(KNO)

Garbage piles up in Bhopal as 15,000 civic workers continue strike

Digital Desk | Bhopal, Nov 6 (IANS) The state capital of Madhya Pradesh is facing a sanitation crisis on Dhanteras, the beginning of Diwali festivities, as around 15,000 Municipal Corporation employees remain on an indefinite strike, leaving garbage piled up on roads, markets and residential colonies. Garbage collection has been disrupted for the second consecutive day on Friday, with overflowing dustbins and waste scattered across several parts of the state capital. The situation has caused inconvenience to residents who had cleaned their houses ahead of Diwali but are unable to dispose of household waste. Residents in several colonies said they had been waiting for municipal garbage collection vehicles for nearly a week. With no vehicles arriving, waste has accumulated outside houses and on roads. In some localities, residents have reportedly started burning the garbage to clear their surroundings. Bhopal generates around 850 tonnes of garbage daily, with the volume increasing to nearly 1,000 tonnes during Diwali. However, the Municipal Corporation has not been able to maintain regular waste collection amid the strike. The agitation, which initially began with sanitation workers, has spread to employees of several other departments, including water supply, fire services, computer operations, electricity, building permissions, gardens and encroachment removal. Around 15,000 of the corporation's nearly 18,000 employees have joined the strike. They include approximately 14,000 daily-wage workers and 1,000 outsourced employees working across 21 zones and 85 wards. On Thursday, protesting employees disconnected the electricity supply to the Municipal Corporation headquarters, Atal Bhavan, and locked its main gate. They have also threatened to completely shut down the corporation's operations. The biggest concern is the possible disruption of the drinking water supply. Employees of the Water Works Department have threatened to stop the supply from Friday. Bhopal has more than 2.30 lakh tap connections, raising concerns over difficulties for residents during the festival. The employees are demanding a minimum monthly honorarium of Rs 25,000, salary revision, regularisation of services, government employee status, abolition of the contractual system and compassionate appointments. Municipal Corporation Chairman Kishan Suryavanshi appealed to the workers to suspend their strike during the festive season. Everyone across the country respects Swachhata Mitras. Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself washed their feet. A proper decision on their demands will also be taken after deliberation, he said. Municipal Commissioner Ram Prakash Ahirwar said discussions between the Additional Chief Secretary of the Urban Administration Department and union representatives had been meaningful. However, the union leaders have refused to call off the strike without a concrete decision and want to speak directly with Chief Minister Mohan Yadav. The strike has also affected sanitation services in other urban local bodies across Madhya Pradesh.

Key Meet Between Farooq, Omar Abdullah And Upset J&K MLAs Today

At least 18 of the 41 National Conference MLAs are demanding sweeping reforms in government and organisational functioning, accountability, and the removal of Omar Abdullah's key aide.

France Protests | Clashes Erupt As Thousands Take To Streets Demanding Higher Wages And Pensions

France has witnessed a fresh wave of protests, with demonstrators taking to the streets over wages, pensions, living standards and the rising cost of living. According to France's Interior Ministry, around 270,000 people joined the nationwide demonstrations, while other estimates put the figure higher. Most protests were peaceful, but clashes broke out with authorities in Paris and Lyon, where tear gas was used. NDTV's Richard reports on the protesters' demands and the challenges facing President Emmanuel Macron's government.

The Growing Importance of Patience in a Busy Modern Life

The Growing Importance of Patience in a Busy Modern Life Modern life moves at an extraordinary pace. People are constantly occupied with work, education, family responsibilities, and personal commitments. Technology has made almost everything faster, but it has also created an expectation of instant results. In this increasingly demanding world, patience has become one of [] The post The Growing Importance of Patience in a Busy Modern Life appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

J&K Bank launches RAHAT Special OTS scheme for stressed borrowers with NPAs up to Rs 5 Crore

Srinagar Nov 5: Jammu and Kashmir Bank has launched a Special One-Time Settlement Scheme, RAHAT (SOTS-2026), offering eligible borrowers with stressed loan accounts an opportunity to settle their outstanding liabilities through a pre-approved, uniform and non-discretionary framework. The scheme, effective November 5, 2026, covers non-performing asset (NPA) accounts with principal outstanding below Rs 25 lakh and from Rs 25 lakh up to Rs 5 crore, subject to the prescribed eligibility and exclusion criteria. The last date for submission of applications is February 4, 2027. Speaking exclusively to Greater Kashmir , J&K Bank MD and CEO Amitava Chatterjee said the initiative was intended to provide relief to borrowers facing financial stress. RAHAT means relief, and that is what we want this scheme to bring to borrowers facing financial stress. It gives eligible borrowers a clear and dignified way to settle their outstanding dues and put a longstanding financial burden behind them, Chatterjee said. He said the scheme had uniform eligibility criteria and settlement terms, with bank branches expected to guide borrowers through the process. Eligibility criteria and settlement terms are uniform and non-discretionary. Eligible borrowers must visit their respective branches, where our teams will proactively explain what the terms mean for their accounts and guide them through each step of the settlement process, he added. According to the Banks circular, the scheme covers accounts classified as Doubtful-I, Doubtful-II, Doubtful-III, Loss Assets, Technically Written-Off Accounts (TWOs) and Recoverable Loan Advances (RLAs), with the relevant principal NPA balance determined as on June 30, 2026. The Bank has described RAHAT as a special settlement initiative aimed at reducing NPAs, accelerating recoveries and providing a structured resolution opportunity to stressed borrowers. It has set an institutional recovery objective of reducing at least 90 per cent of the eligible portfolio, while requiring all settlements to remain within the approved scheme parameters. The detailed guidelines divide borrowers into two categories. Segment A covers accounts with principal NPA outstanding below Rs 25 lakh, while Segment B covers accounts with outstanding principal from Rs 25 lakh up to Rs 5 crore. Separate settlement formulas, eligibility conditions and procedures have been prescribed for the two segments. For accounts below Rs 25 lakh, the settlement amount varies according to the outstanding amount, availability of tangible security and the accounts asset classification. In unsecured accounts with principal NPA outstanding up to Rs 10 lakh, the prescribed settlement ranges from 60 per cent of the principal balance for Doubtful-I accounts to 50 per cent for Doubtful-III, Loss, TWO and RLA accounts. Different rates apply to secured accounts. For accounts above Rs 10 lakh and below Rs 25 lakh, the guidelines prescribe an NPV-based formula for loans secured by tangible assets. The settlement calculation takes into account the Net Present Value of the charged security and its relationship with the principal NPA balance. The Bank has also provided for specified write-offs in principal and full waiver of unapplied interest, legal expenses and other charges in the categories covered by the guidelines. The detailed settlement terms for accounts ranging from Rs 25 lakh to Rs 5 crore are contained in a separate annexure to the scheme. Under the payment mechanism prescribed for the below-Rs 25 lakh segment, borrowers are required to deposit 15 per cent of the settlement amount at the time of submitting the application. The remaining 85 per cent must be paid within three months of sanction. An extension of up to three additional months may be granted if at least 50 per cent of the settlement amount is deposited within the initial three-month period. The outstanding balance in such cases will carry interest at the six-month MCLR from the date of sanction. The Bank has also announced incentives for early settlement. Borrowers making full payment within one month of sanction will receive an incentive of three per cent on the settlement amount, while those completing payment within three months will receive an incentive of 1.5 per cent. The scheme covers eligible accounts that have remained in the NPA category for at least one year, subject to other conditions. Both suit-filed and non-suit-filed accounts are covered, including certain cases pending before courts, Lok Adalats and Debt Recovery Tribunals, as well as decreed cases, subject to the required legal formalities. Guarantors may also submit settlement proposals to the extent of their liability under the guarantee. However, accounts declared as wilful defaulters or those where fraud has been reported to the RBI by the Bank are excluded. Other exclusions include specified staff accounts, loans guaranteed by the Central or State Government, cases under investigation by external agencies, accounts admitted before the National Company Law Tribunal and cases under liquidation. The Bank has directed branches, Zonal Industrial Area Recovery Centres and Industrial Area Recovery Centres to act as facilitators and sanction-issuing authorities. They will verify eligible accounts and proactively contact borrowers through letters, SMS, email or telephone. The circular prescribes a seven-day turnaround time for communicating the sanction after receipt of the application, upfront payment and acceptance letter. The Bank has also directed operative levels to complete verification of eligible borrowers within 15 days of the schemes launch. The implementation will be monitored by Cluster Heads and Zonal Heads, with periodic progress reports submitted to the Banks head office and senior management. The circular further states that eligible proposals conforming to the scheme should not be rejected by the sanction-issuing authority. Eligible borrowers have been advised to approach their respective branches to ascertain their account-specific settlement amount, understand the applicable conditions and complete the required formalities before the February 4, 2027 deadline. Meanwhile, the business community had been demanding a comprehensive Special One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme from J&K Bank, seeking coverage for borrowers with outstanding loan liabilities of up to Rs 50 crore. Various trade and business organisations had repeatedly urged the Bank to introduce a structured, borrower-friendly settlement mechanism, arguing that traders, entrepreneurs and industrial units facing financial distress needed an opportunity to resolve their stressed accounts and revive their businesses. The launch of RAHAT (SOTS-2026), covering eligible accounts with principal NPA outstanding of up to Rs 5 crore, addresses this demand to an extent, although the business communitys earlier demand for a higher coverage ceiling of Rs 50 crore remains wider than the schemes present scope.

Tanveer Khans remarkable journey across Himalayas

Srinagar, Nov 5:From remote mountain trails to exploring hidden alpine lakes and running across high-altitude passes, Tanveer Khan, popularly known as Tani Khan, has spent 14 years pursuing his passion for the mountains. On October 31, he claims to have completed the exploration of 300 alpine lakes across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, all located above 3,500 metres. His journey has covered more than 10,000 kilometres on foot, reflecting years of endurance, exploration and an abiding love for the Himalayas. He acknowledges the support of his family, friends and those who stood beside him throughout this journey, with special gratitude to an avid trekker and bureaucrat Mahmood Ahmad Shah . His journey is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the unyielding spirit of exploration. From a young age, Tanveer was captivated by the mountains. This deep connection with nature only grew stronger with time, but the lack of platforms and opportunities to venture into the mountains initially posed a significant challenge. Trekking has been a huge part of my lifes journey. As I grew up I only wanted to go further, higher, steeper, and of course that leads to trekking expedition, and I never lost that desire to explore Tanveer Khan told Greater Kashmir. On 31 October 2026, Tanveer reached a remarkable milestone in that journey: the exploration of 300 alpine lakes across Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, all above 3,500 metres above sea level. But behind this number lies a story far greater than a collection of achievements. It is a story of fourteen years of exploration, more than 10,000 kilometres on foot, countless demanding expeditions, substantial personal expenditure, family sacrifices and an extraordinary determination to keep moving towards the unknown. A Journey That Began in 2012 Tanveer's mountain journey began in 2012 with JKMHC. What started as an interest gradually developed into a passion that would shape much of his life. In those early years, i began learning the language of the mountains: understanding routes, reading landscapes, navigating difficult terrain and developing the physical endurance required for remote exploration. As my experience grew, so did my ambitions. eventually established my own group, Pathfinders, giving my exploration journey a new identity and direction Tanveer said. But Tanveer was not interested in simply following established routes. He wanted to go beyond them. He began exploring places that were rarely part of mainstream trekking itineraries, searching for hidden valleys, high mountain passes and alpine lakes that remained largely unfamiliar to the wider adventure community. What began over a decade ago as a personal quest to explore the hidden high-altitude wilderness of the Himalayas has evolved into one of the most comprehensive visual and baseline environmental documentations of the regions fragile alpine ecosystems. Navigating treacherous mountain passes, unpredictable weather, and extreme altitudes where oxygen levels drop significantly, Tanveers journey has taken him through some of the most remote valleys in the Himalayas and Karakoram ranges. Environmentalists and local mountaineering communities have lauded Tanveers effort. Beyond the physical accomplishment, his vast repository of photographs and terrain observations offers valuable context on glacier melt, seasonal water shifts, and the impact of increasing human footprint in high-altitude zones. The explorer who refused to let winter stop him: While most mountain activities in Kashmir traditionally gained momentum during the warmer months, Tanveer began taking a different approach. He initiated regular Sunday winter explorations, continuing his mountain journeys even when snow covered the trails and temperatures dropped. For him, winter was not a reason to stay away from the mountains. It was another season waiting to be explored. Those Sunday journeys gradually became an inspiration for others. More people began venturing into the mountains during winter, following a culture of exploration that had once seemed unusual to many. What began as a personal commitment eventually helped encourage a new generation to experience Kashmir's mountains beyond the conventional summer season says Tanveer. Obsession With 300 Alpine Lakes Somewhere along the journey, Tanveer's attention became increasingly focused on the high-altitude lakes scattered across the mountains of Jammu & Kashmir. Many of these lakes were known to local shepherds and people familiar with the terrain, but remained largely absent from mainstream adventure conversations and organised trekking itineraries. He began studying maps, identifying possible routes and planning expeditions to reach these remote water bodies. Every lake brought a different challenge. Some required long approaches through rugged valleys; others demanded steep climbs, difficult descents, river crossings and hours of navigation through unfamiliar terrain. There were no easy shortcuts. Reaching these places often meant enduring physical exhaustion, unpredictable weather and the uncertainty of remote mountain travel. Over the years, Tanveer's explorations helped bring numerous lesser-known alpine lakes into wider public awareness. Places that had once been little more than names or markings on maps began appearing in photographs, videos and accounts shared with a new generation of mountain enthusiasts. His efforts also helped document routes and provide useful information for people who would later attempt these journeys. First came the milestone of 200 alpine lakes, for which he received recognition from the India Book of Records. The achievement was an important moment in his journey, but it did not mark the end of his ambitions. He continued exploring, eventually crossing 250 lakes and setting his sights on the next milestone. After years of searching, planning and travelling through demanding mountain terrain, Tanveer completed the exploration of his 300th alpine lake. Three hundred alpine lakes. More than 10,000 kilometres on foot. Fourteen years of pursuing the unknown. For Tanveer, however, the number is not merely a statistic. Each lake represents a journey, a challenge and a memory written into the mountains. From exploration and speed hiking, he gradually moved towards mountain running and skyrunning. The challenge was no longer limited to reaching remote lakes. It became about running on steep mountain trails, negotiating rocky ridgelines and moving through high-altitude terrain where every climb demands extraordinary effort. He took on uphill running challenges on eight of Kashmir's motorable mountain passes Razdan Top, Zoji La Top, Sinthan Top, Margan Top, Banihal Top, Phykiryan Top, Sadhana Top, Z-Gali Top9 These efforts included uphill half-marathon challenges, testing his endurance on long climbs where elevation gain mattered as much as distance. Even before marathon running became familiar in the local adventure scene, Tanveer had undertaken a full marathon from Razdan Top to Dawar and a 30-kilometre uphill run to Drass. His transition into skyrunning took the challenge further. Running above 4,000 metres, negotiating rocky trails, exposed ridges and demanding high-altitude terrain became part of his training and exploration. From his first mountain experiences with JKMHC in 2012 to establishing Pathfinders, from Sunday winter explorations to 300 alpine lakes, and from speed hiking to high-altitude running, Tanveer Khan's journey has continually evolved. The 300-lake milestone may be one of the biggest achievements of his life, but it does not necessarily represent a finish line. For someone who has already walked more than 10,000 kilometres pursuing the unknown, the next destination is always waiting beyond the horizon.

Ministerial Responsibility

Whenever a political party comes to power, a familiar trend emerges. Some elected legislators begin lobbying for ministerial positions, often citing their loyalty to the party, years of association, political sacrifices, or the number of elections they have won. While these factors may have their own significance in politics, they do not automatically make someone suitable for a ministerial position. Winning an election and running a department are two very different things. An election gives a person the mandate to represent the people, but it does not necessarily establish their ability to govern. Unfortunately, we often see ministerial positions being treated as rewards for political loyalty or electoral success. What is sometimes overlooked is that becoming a minister brings responsibilities that go far beyond holding an important position. Before aspiring for ministerial office, every legislator should ask themselves a simple question: Do I understand what the job actually demands? Do I have the knowledge, judgement, and ability to manage a department and deliver results? Wanting power is easy. Understanding the responsibility that comes with it is a different matter altogether. A minister is not appointed merely to occupy an office, attend meetings, or issue statements. The real work lies in understanding the department, identifying its weaknesses, setting priorities, and ensuring that decisions are implemented properly. It also means knowing how public money is being spent and whether it is making a difference in peoples lives. Without this understanding, even well-intentioned decisions can fail to produce meaningful results. We often use the words government and governance as though they mean the same thing. They are not synonymous. Government refers to the institutions and people responsible for running the state, while governance concerns how effectively those institutions function. A government may announce schemes, issue orders, and hold regular meetings, but none of this matters much if the intended benefits never reach the people. What ultimately counts is whether public services improve, grievances are addressed, and institutions function as they should. A good minister needs more than political experience. Knowledge, sound judgement, administrative ability, and a clear understanding of public problems are equally important. There must also be the courage to take difficult decisions, resist unnecessary pressure, and question practices that are not working. Above all, a minister must be willing to learn. No one can know everything, but there is a considerable difference between a person who recognises their limitations and one who assumes that political position makes them an expert. The real question, therefore, is not how many elections a legislator has won or how long they have remained loyal to a political party. It is what they have contributed to public life and whether they are capable of taking on greater responsibility. Electoral success demonstrates that a candidate has secured public support, but it does not, by itself, prove administrative competence. Similarly, loyalty to a party may be valued, but it cannot replace the ability to govern. Of course, ministerial appointments cannot be based on merit alone in a narrow sense. Political experience, regional representation, social considerations, and the need to maintain a stable government also matter. But these considerations should not become excuses for overlooking competence. When personal loyalties and internal political arrangements take priority over the public interest, the quality of governance is often the first casualty. This matters even more in regions where people are already struggling with unemployment, economic uncertainty, administrative delays, and inadequate public services. These problems cannot be addressed through speeches and announcements alone. They require ministers who are willing to understand the issues, consult people with relevant expertise, listen to public grievances, and follow decisions through to their conclusion. A minister must be prepared to take responsibility when things go wrong, not simply claim credit when they go right. Political parties have a particular responsibility in this regard. They must learn to distinguish between a loyal party worker and a capable administrator. The two qualities can exist in the same person, but one does not automatically guarantee the other. Appointments should be made after considering whether a person has the ability and temperament required for the job, rather than simply to satisfy competing political interests. The electorate also has a role to play. Democracy works best when people make informed choices and judge their representatives by their performance. When money, manipulation, narrow loyalties, or immediate personal benefits influence electoral decisions, the larger public interest can suffer. However, the responsibility for good governance cannot be placed entirely on voters. Once elected, representatives must fulfil their obligations regardless of the circumstances in which they won. There is another point worth considering: not every MLA needs to become a minister to prove their worth. A legislator can make a significant contribution by raising public issues, examining legislation, questioning government decisions, and holding the executive accountable. In fact, a responsible legislator who consistently speaks for the people may serve the public better than a minister who holds office without making a meaningful contribution. Ministerial positions should be entrusted to people who have the ability, integrity, and willingness to shoulder the responsibilities involved. Political experience is valuable, but it should be accompanied by sound judgement and a genuine understanding of public administration. The objective should not be to reward individuals but to ensure that government departments function effectively and serve the people. A capable minister understands that the department does not exist for their personal benefit. They must learn how it works, recognise its shortcomings, and find practical ways to improve it. They must be open to criticism, willing to listen to different opinions, and answerable for their decisions. Most importantly, they must remember that public office is held in trust. People do not elect representatives simply to see different faces occupy positions of power. They expect better administration, greater opportunities, access to essential services, and a fair chance at a better life. They want to see improvements in their everyday circumstances. A government should ultimately be judged by what it delivers, not by the stature of the people in its cabinet or the promises made from public platforms. Leadership, after all, is not about how eagerly a person seeks authority. It is about what they do once that authority is entrusted to them. People need leaders who can provide direction when it is lacking, help when they are struggling, and listen when their concerns are ignored. This requires not only authority but also humility, patience, and a willingness to be held accountable. It is time political parties and elected representatives gave greater thought to what a ministerial position actually means. It should not be viewed as a reward for loyalty, a recognition of seniority, or compensation for electoral victories. It is a demanding responsibility that requires the right person to be placed in the right position for the right reasons. A ministerial chair is not something to be claimed as a personal right. It is a public responsibility, and the people have every right to expect that it will be handled by someone capable of doing the job. In the end, political positions may change hands, but the responsibility to serve the public remains. That is the principle our political culture needs to take more seriously. Dr Bakhtaver Hassan, PhD Economics, currently working as Asstt. Professor in Dogra Degree College, Jammu.

Trump warns Iran as Democrats plan war votes

Digital Desk | Washington, Nov 6 (IANS) US President Donald Trump raised the prospect of further military action against Iran on Thursday (local time), even as senior House Democrats outlined plans to force votes to end the war and demand answers about its objectives and costs. I would rather not destroy the rest of the country, if possible, but maybe I'll have to. You'll know soon enough, Trump told reporters at the White House. He gave no timetable or targets for further action and did not announce that new strikes had been ordered. The warning came as Democrats prepared their foreign-policy agenda for the next Congress, with Representative Gregory Meeks promising resolutions to terminate the conflict and Democratic Whip Katherine Clark questioning its goals and exit strategy. Their statements preceded Trumps latest remarks. They set out the congressional opposition confronting his Iran policy, rather than responses to Thursday afternoons warning. Speaking during an Oval Office event, Trump defended the military campaign and said a decision would be made on whether to go further. He also reiterated his position that Iran must not acquire a nuclear weapon. Asked about reports of proposals concerning Tehrans nuclear programme, he said: They're not doing anything without our approval. Trump did not confirm the substance of any proposal or describe an agreed negotiating framework. His remarks left both the scope of potential military action and the diplomatic route unspecified. Meeks, the senior Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, set out his plans in a November 4 letter seeking colleagues support to become its chairman. On the legislative front, I intend to bring resolutions to the floor to immediately terminate the Presidents war with Iran and will prioritize clawing back Congresss proper role in the making of American foreign policy, he wrote. The letter also proposed demanding public testimony from senior administration officials about the Iran war, Venezuela and disputes over congressional authority on military action and trade. Meeks was describing an intended legislative and oversight agenda. The letter did not establish a date for a vote or identify a newly introduced resolution implementing that pledge. Earlier, Clark told CNN that Democrats would press the administration about continued funding for the conflict and how it intended to bring American troops home safely. Her office circulated excerpts of the interview before Trumps afternoon remarks. Clark accused the president of taking the country into a reckless war that had no exit strategy, had no clear goals, and blamed the conflict for increasing pressure on household fuel costs. She said Democrats would seek discussions about the administrations objectives and how to end the war while protecting Americans and US troops. The two Democrats emphasised different avenues for challenging the administration: Meeks proposed floor resolutions and testimony, while Clark focused on funding, public costs and an exit strategy. Neither statement amounted to a new restriction already imposed on the president. The Gulf conflict also concerns major Asian energy importers, including India. The International Energy Agency identifies the Strait of Hormuz as a critical oil transit route and lists India, China and Japan among the principal destinations for oil leaving the waterway.

Dissident NC MLAs close ranks, hold 4th meeting since cabinet expansion

Srinagar, Nov 5:The internal crisis in the ruling National Conference (NC) appears to be moving towards a possible negotiated settlement, with a group of disgruntled legislators scheduled to meet party president Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to formally present their grievances and demands. The Friday's meeting could provide an opportunity to address the growing discontent within the party following the recent cabinet expansion. Talking to Greater Kashmir, MLA Hazratbal, Salman Ali Sagar said that there has been a full reach out from the party to these legislators. There were some prior engagements and Chief Minister (Omar Abdullah) Sahab had some personal engagements after the cabinet expansion, he said. Some party leaders were also busy after the cabinet expansion as a result of which things got dragged for a few days. However, he said that during the last five to six days, the party had been in touch with all these legislators. Salman said that none of these NC leaders were rebellious against the party. They say they have certain issues and grievances and want the party leadership to redress those grievances, he said. Salman said that he had personally met MLA Gurez, Nazir Ahmad Khan (Gurezi), and MLA Lolab, Qaysar Jamshaid Lone, on Thursday and around four more prominent MLAs. I also talked to MLA Gulmarg, Pirzada Farooq Ahmed Shah, and MLA Budhal, Javed Iqbal Choudhary, he said. By and large, all of them have demanded redressal of their grievances, nothing more. Salman said that these legislators will call on NC President Farooq Abdullah at his residence on Friday. They can also meet Chief Minister Omar (Abdullah) Sahab if he does not have prior official engagements. Everything will hopefully be sorted out after the meeting with Farooq (Abdullah) Sahab and they will come out with a positive mindset, he said. Whatever is doable will be done. Meanwhile, according to sources, the dissident NC legislators continued their consultations late Thursday evening at the Srinagar residence of MLA Pampore, Hasnain Masoodi, to finalise their strategy ahead of the meeting with the party leadership. The sources said that 20 dissident NC MLAs participated in the meeting including 16 physically and four virtually. An NC MLA, who participated in the meeting, said that the dissident NC legislators had been asked by the NC President Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to meet them at the residence of Farooq Abdullah on Friday. He said that the meeting held on Thursday evening had decided that a delegation representing the group would meet the party high command and put forth their grievances and demands. It was their fourth meeting since cabinet expansion. On Wednesday evening, around a dozen NC dissident legislators assembled at the Haiderpora, Srinagar residence of MLA Gulmarg, Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah, after another meeting earlier in the day at the Tulsi Bagh, Srinagar residence of MLA Gurez, Nazir Ahmad Khan (Gurezi). The consultations have gathered momentum since the dissident group of NC legislators first assembled at the Humhama residence of Qaysar Jamshaid Lone last week. Seventeen NC legislators and an independent MLA from Thanamandi reportedly took an oath of collective solidarity at the meeting, pledging to pursue their concerns jointly rather than take individual positions. The group included MLA Pampore Hasnain Masoodi, MLA Rajpora Ghulam Mohiuddin Mir, MLA Karnah Javid Ahmad, MLA Khan Sahab Saifuddin Bhat, MLA Tangmarg Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah, MLA Eidgah Mubarik Gul, MLA Gurez Nazir Ahmad Khan (Gurezi), MLA Sonawari Hilal Akbar Lone, MLA Bijbehara Bashir Ahmad Shah (Veeri), MLA Anantnag West Abdul Majid Bhat (Larmi), MLA Poonch Haveli Aijaz Ahmad Jan, MLA Budhal Javid Iqbal Choudhary, MLA Ramban Arjun Singh Raju, MLA Gulabgarh Khursheed Ahmad, MLA Uri Sajad Shafi, and independent MLA from Thanamandi Muzaffar Iqbal Khan. Inside sources in NC said that around two dozen legislators are dissatisfied, although the number of those who have formally joined the collective initiative is lower. They said the dissident NC legislators had prepared a charter of demands covering governance and organisational matters. These include stepping up efforts for the restoration of statehood and special status for Jammu and Kashmir, implementing the Dachigam resolution on cabinet restructuring and ministerial accountability, and replacing the Chief Ministers inner circle. They have also sought the formation of a consultative advisory group comprising two to three legislators to regularly brief the CM on governance issues and the implementation of developmental works. On the organisational front, their demands include setting up a high-powered disciplinary committee and an inquiry panel to address grievances, strengthening the partys media and communication cell, holding regular meetings of the NC Working Committee, establishing an election cell, and undertaking comprehensive organisational restructuring. Meanwhile, efforts appear to have been made to prevent the differences from escalating into an open confrontation, particularly over the position of senior leader and six-time MLA from Eidgah, Mubarik Gul. Two NC legislators visited Gul at his residence on Wednesday and reportedly persuaded him not to take any unilateral decision ahead of the proposed meeting with the party leadership. Gul had planned to address a news conference to explain his grievances over his exclusion from the recent cabinet expansion but subsequently deferred it following the death of senior party leader Sheikh Ghulam Qadir (Pardesi) and father of NC MLA Lal Chowk, Ahsan Pardesi. Meanwhile, Guls son, Younus Gul, defended his fathers position, saying that seeking legitimate rights after decades of service to the party could not be construed as rebellion. Speaking to reporters, Younus said his father had been associated with the NC for 40 to 50 years and had won several elections while remaining loyal to the party. Asking for your right is not rebellion. If someone comes from outside and demands something, that may be different. But a person who has served the party for 40-50 years and won seven elections cannot be treated this way, he said. Younus also urged the party leadership to identify those working against the organisations interests rather than treating the assertion of legitimate demands by senior leaders as an act of indiscipline. The discontent has been particularly pronounced since the October 27 cabinet expansion, during which four new ministers were inducted, taking the Council of Ministers (CoM) to its maximum permissible strength of nine. Gul, a six-time legislator and former Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, was among the prominent leaders left out. Uncertainty over his organisational position further complicated the situation. Although NC President Farooq Abdullah appointed Gul as General Secretary on October 27, a subsequent order issued on October 30 directed Ali Mohammad Sagar, who had joined the cabinet, to continue holding the post until further orders. Earlier, senior NC legislator Majid Larmi had disclosed that Guls elevation as General Secretary was proposed during the meeting of legislators at Qaysar Jamshaid Lones residence. Gul had reportedly indicated that he would take up the responsibility after first pacifying his supporters. The latest consultations suggest that the dissident legislators are seeking a collective accommodation within the party rather than an immediate confrontation with its leadership. Meanwhile, former legislator Choudhary Akram has denied reports that he was planning to resign from the party, asserting that he remained with the NC and continued to support Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. The NC leadership has officially played down reports of internal rebellion, describing the legislators earlier gathering at the Srinagar residence of MLA Lolab Qaysar Jamshaid Lone as a routine social interaction ahead of the Darbar Move. However, the continued consultations, the proposed charter of demands, and Fridays expected meeting indicate that the party leadership faces a substantive set of organisational and governance concerns that will need to be addressed. The party is under scrutiny particularly after the resignation of senior party leader and Member of Parliament from Srinagar-Budgam parliamentary constituency, Aga Syed Ruhullah, who parted ways with NC after 24 years.

National Conference in the Grip of an Inner Circle

The growing political unease within the National Conference is no longer a routine episode of internal disagreement. What is unfolding is a deeper organisational crisis, rooted in the concentration of political authority, the marginalisation of experienced leaders and the growing perception that the party and the government have become the preserve of a small circle surrounding Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. The departure of Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi has brought this simmering discontent into the open, but the causes of the present situation go much deeper than one individual's differences with the leadership. The National Conference, which has historically projected itself as a mass-based political organisation with a formidable network of grassroots leaders, is now facing questions about its internal democratic functioning. Several established leaders who spent decades building the party's political base appear to have been pushed to the margins, while decision-making increasingly revolves around a limited group enjoying proximity to Omar Abdullah. The result is a growing disconnect between the party's political establishment and its own experienced leadership. Omar Abdullah cannot escape responsibility for this situation. Political leadership is not merely about occupying the Chief Minister's chair or exercising authority over the government. It involves managing competing aspirations, respecting senior colleagues, recognising political experience and keeping the organisation united. The ability to accommodate dissent and create a sense of collective ownership is an essential test of political maturity. The present developments raise serious questions about whether that responsibility has been adequately discharged. The inner circle versus the larger leadership The most disturbing feature of the present NC dispensation is the perception that a small group around Omar Abdullah is exercising disproportionate influence over both the government and the party. Meanwhile, several experienced political figures, including those with established constituencies and organisational standing, appear to have little say in important decisions. A political party cannot function effectively if its senior leaders are reduced to spectators while a select group determines its direction. Experience, political contribution and grassroots connections cannot be substituted by personal proximity to the leadership. This approach also creates an unhealthy political culture in which access to the leadership becomes more important than organisational merit. Leaders who feel ignored may initially remain silent, but prolonged marginalisation inevitably produces resentment. What begins as private dissatisfaction can eventually become organised dissent. The responsibility for preventing such a situation rests primarily with the party's leadership. Ruhullah's departure: More than an individual rebellion Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi's departure has given a face and a political vocabulary to the discontent within the National Conference. His differences with Omar Abdullah concern the party's commitments on Article 370, restoration of statehood, constitutional aspirations and the reservation issue. Ruhullah's political significance comes from his independent public standing and his willingness to challenge his own party leadership. His call for a new political movement suggests that he is contemplating a political platform beyond the existing organisational framework. His resignation from the Lok Sabha and his proposed political initiative must be understood as separate but connected developments. The former creates a parliamentary consequence; the latter could have much wider implications for regional politics. More importantly, Ruhullah's departure raises a question for other dissatisfied NC leaders: should they continue to remain within an organisation where they believe their political voice has lost significance, or should they explore an alternative platform? Not every disgruntled leader necessarily shares Ruhullah's ideological position. Some may be unhappy over ministerial accommodation, others over organisational authority, and still others over the government's political direction. Nevertheless, these different streams of dissatisfaction could converge around a common demand for a more consultative leadership. Mubarak Gul and the possibility of wider dissent The political position of senior leaders such as Mubarak Gul deserves attention. Reports of dissatisfaction over political accommodation and the distribution of responsibilities indicate that the problem may extend beyond ideological disagreements. If senior legislators and established party functionaries begin expressing solidarity with Ruhullah or associating themselves with his proposed initiative, the consequences could be substantial. However, it would be premature to suggest that a breakaway faction has already taken shape. There is a difference between expressing dissatisfaction, demanding a greater role within the party and deciding to abandon the organisation. The coming months will reveal whether the present discontent remains confined to individual grievances or develops into a wider organisational challenge. Omar's failure to manage political expectations The National Conference returned to power in 2024 on a strong electoral narrative built around the restoration of Article 370, statehood and constitutional rights. These commitments created expectations among its supporters. The constitutional and administrative realities following August 2019 have undoubtedly restricted the government's room for manoeuvre. But political leadership requires the ability to explain limitations honestly, maintain credibility and demonstrate that electoral promises have not simply been abandoned. Instead, the growing confrontation with dissenting voices has shifted attention from the larger political questions to the internal management of the party. Omar Abdullah has to recognise that disagreement over policy cannot always be treated as disloyalty. A political organisation that cannot tolerate questions from within eventually weakens its own credibility. The historical lesson of National Conference The National Conference has a long history of internal divisions and political fragmentation. The 1953 rupture, the subsequent emergence of alternative formations and the creation of the Awami National Conference demonstrate that disagreements within the party have, at different points, resulted in larger political realignments. The lesson is that political organisations built around powerful leadership structures must continuously renew internal confidence. Personal authority cannot permanently substitute collective leadership. The present situation may not necessarily lead to another formal split, but the possibility of a new political platform emerging from within the broader NC constituency cannot be dismissed. A political opportunity for alternative leadership The developments also have implications beyond the National Conference. Jammu and Kashmir's political landscape is undergoing a debate about leadership, accountability, regional representation and the credibility of political promises. If the NC's experienced leaders remain politically marginalised, alternative political formations may find an opportunity to attract sections of its traditional support base. For the BJP, these developments are relevant to understanding the changing regional political environment, but dissent against Omar Abdullah should not automatically be interpreted as support for the BJP. Ruhullah's political position and constitutional outlook remain distinct from the BJP's. The emerging contest is therefore not simply between the BJP and the NC. It also concerns the future of regional political leadership and the possibility of new political alignments. Omar must look beyond his inner circle Omar Abdullah still has an opportunity to address the situation through meaningful consultation, organisational restructuring and a more inclusive approach to political decision-making. But this requires acknowledging that the present discontent cannot be resolved merely through political statements or occasional accommodation. The party needs to restore the confidence of its experienced leaders, give legislators a meaningful role and create an environment where differences can be discussed without turning every disagreement into a confrontation. The National Conference cannot afford to become an organisation in which a few people govern while its established political leadership watches from the sidelines. The fundamental problem confronting Omar Abdullah is not merely Ruhullah's rebellion; it is the growing perception that he has allowed the party's collective leadership to be replaced by an inner circle. Political history repeatedly demonstrates that organisations rarely weaken because of one dissenting voice. They weaken when those who once gave them strength begin to feel that they no longer have a voice. If Omar Abdullah fails to understand this distinction, Ruhullah's departure may eventually be remembered not as an isolated political episode but as the beginning of a larger reorganisation of the National Conference's political constituency. (The Author is a chief spokesperson of BJP J&K UT)

Kannada Activists Enter Bengaluru IT Offices, Demand Hiring Data: Who Has The Authority?

Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV) activists have entered offices of major multinational IT companies in Bengaluru, including Google, Hewlett Packard Enterprise and Wipro, demanding details of local hiring, workforce composition, recruitment criteria, training and internships.

PCB's Demand For NOC Fee Forces Pakistan Players' Exodus From Abu Dhabi T10 League

The Pakistan Cricket Board is demanding a fee of USD 10,000 to give NOCs for participation in global franchise leagues, which has led to the country's players being forced out of the Abu Dhabi T10 League.

Hyderabad: OU Contract Assistant Professors Protest Demanding 7th PRC Pay Scales, Job Security

The teachers also sought an ordinance to protect their services, as assurances made by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy in April 2025 remain unfulfilled, according to the association.

Karjat farmers and tribals oppose hydropower projects, demand cancellation

The Karjat Taluka Paryavaran Bachao Sangharsh Samiti has submitted a detailed memorandum to the Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis through the Karjat tehsildar, demanding the permanent cancellation of both projects

Hundreds of thousands strike across France for higher wages and to back students

The Paris march began peacefully on Thursday afternoon at Place de la Republique. The large crowd included many students carrying signs reading, Inequalities seriously jeopardize our future and We can't spend our whole lives just trying to make a living. They were joined by workers and retirees demanding higher wages and pensions.

BJP calls Rahul Gandhi 'face of anarchy', cites Congress' fall from 1,182 to 663 MLAs

Digital Desk | Bhopal, Nov 5 (IANS) Stepping up its offensive against the Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday accused him of spreading anarchy by questioning the electoral process and claimed that his rise in the Congress has gone hand-in-hand with the party's steady decline. Addressing a press conference at the BJP headquarters in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh BJP President Hemant Khandelwal and party's national spokesperson Prem Shukla targeted Rahul Gandhi over the Congress' repeated electoral defeats and its allegations of irregularities in the voter lists. Khandelwal said the BJP has launched a campaign across Madhya Pradesh to save democracy and remove anarchy to counter what he described as LoP Gandhi's attempt to create instability in the country. Rahul Gandhi is working to spread anarchy across the country, Khandelwal said. Shukla, who led the attack against Congress with data, said Rahul Gandhi's political journey tells the story of the Congress' fall. Whenever Rahul Gandhi was promoted, the Congress was demoted, Shukla said. He said that when Rahul Gandhi became the Congress General Secretary in 2008, the party had 1,182 MLAs against the BJP's 889. When he (Rahul Gandhi) became the party Vice-President in 2014, the Congress tally fell to 883. When he became the party President in 2017, it further dropped to 807. In 2024, when he became Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, the party was left with 654 MLAs, Shukla claimed. According to the BJP leader, the Congress currently has 663 MLAs against the BJP's 1,819 and has lost around 60 Assembly elections. Challenging LoP Gandhi's vote theft charge, Shukla said the Congress leader has failed to produce evidence of even a single genuine case of wrongful deletion of a voter's name. Rahul Gandhi has not been able to produce even one genuine voter whose name was wrongly deleted from the electoral roll, the BJP leader added. He said the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls has been conducted 12 times in the country, including 10 times during Congress rule, and is aimed at removing names of deceased, duplicate and permanently shifted voters. The BJP leaders also attacked the Opposition's November 1 rally at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan, disputing its claim of a massive turnout. Shukla alleged that the rally led to closure of shops in parts of the national capital and caused losses to traders. The Congress has been accusing the Election Commission of irregularities and demanding accountability over the SIR exercise.

What links Ayushmann Khurrana's extortion scare to Salman Khan?

Highlights Ayushmann Khurrana allegedly received a threatening message demanding a huge ransom. A Bengaluru-based engineer has been arrested for allegedly targeting Bollywood celebrities using the Lawrence Bishnoi gang's name. The case has renewed attention on Salman Khan, who has faced repeated threats allegedly linked to the gangster. Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana has become the latest celebrity to receive an extortion threat in the name of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, raising concerns about safety of film personalities. The Mumbai Crime Branch arrested a 30-year-old Bengaluru-based IT engineer, identified as Vaibhav Mishra, on November 4 for allegedly sending threatening messages to several actors, including Khurrana and Tusshar Kapoor. The accused reportedly demanded a huge sum from Khurrana while claiming links to the Bishnoi gang. Investigations have found no evidence connecting Mishra to the criminal network. The development has drawn comparisons with Salman Khan's long-running security concerns. The actor has faced repeated threats allegedly linked to Bishnoi, with the gangster's hostility reportedly stemming from the 1998 blackbuck poaching case. In April 2024, gunmen also opened fire outside Khan's Mumbai residence. The connection has become relevant as the Bishnoi gang's name has surfaced in several incidents involving Bollywood personalities. These include the October 18 shooting targeting Tiger Shroff's car in Mumbai and a separate extortion threat against Tusshar Kapoor, in which the caller allegedly demanded 400,000. Police investigations into the latest threats are ongoing, with officers examining the messages and the accused's possible motives.

Indias new grid playbook

Its a demanding framework to enhance grid reliability. Operators will need to adapt, invest, and integrate new practices into daily dispatch

Political tensions mount in Keralams Adoor over police station attack

Left parties step up agitation, demanding action against district panchayat member Sreenadevi Kunjamma and other Youth Congress workers named as accused in the case

Beed: Family Booked Over Windmill Project Dispute

A family in Maharashtra's Beed district has been booked for allegedly obstructing a windmill installation project by Avaada Energy and demanding Rs 30 lakh, despite having received prior compensation for their land. They also sought jobs for their children and threatened company officials.

SAFF Championship 2026: Defending champions India beat Pakistan in campaign opener

Digital Desk | Dhaka, Nov 5 (IANS) Defending champions India began their SAFF Championship 2026 campaign with a 3-2 victory over Pakistan in their Group B opener at the National Stadium in Dhaka on Thursday. Suhail Ahmad Bhat scored twice in the first half before Manglenthang Kipgen added a third to give India a commanding 3-0 lead at the break. Pakistan scored twice in stoppage time through Najeeb Ullah and Alamgir Ghazi, but the Indian side held on to secure all three points. India began cautiously, building patiently from the back and looking to establish control through the midfield, with Abhishek Suryavanshi operating in a deep role. Bhat thought he had opened the scoring in the 12th minute after getting on the end of an aerial ball from Kipgen, but the goal was ruled out for offside. The forward was not to be denied for long. A minute later, Muhammad Suhail collected the ball from a throw-in on the left and drove forward before delivering an inch-perfect ball into the penalty area. Bhat arrived at the six-yard box to turn it home and give India the lead. India doubled their advantage in the 19th minute, with Suryavanshi providing the assist. As Pakistan dropped deeper, the midfielder found himself further up the pitch and played a precise, line-breaking pass through the defence. Bhat timed his run to perfection, got clear of the backline and calmly slotted a first-time finish into the far corner past goalkeeper Yousuf Butt. The Blue Tigers continued to find space behind the Pakistan defence and made it 3-0 in the 31st minute. Noufal PN carried the ball forward through the middle before releasing Kipgen with a pass in behind. The midfielder ran onto it and finished past the advancing Butt to extend India's lead. Pakistan had an opportunity to reduce the deficit when Suryavanshi brought down Hayyaan Khattak from behind inside the penalty area. However, Shayak Dost sent the resulting spot-kick over the crossbar, allowing India to preserve their three-goal advantage. Bhat came close to completing his hat-trick just before half-time. Cutting in from the right in the 45th minute, he unleashed a left-footed effort from outside the box, but his shot went narrowly wide, with Butt rooted to the spot. India continued to control proceedings after the restart and created opportunities to extend their lead. Adison Singh Thokchom was denied by Butt in a one-on-one situation, while Kipgen and Farukh also had attempts that failed to find the target. However, Naushad Moosa's side were unable to add to their first-half tally as the second period progressed. Pakistan found a way back into the contest in stoppage time. Junaid Shah delivered a cross from the left in the 91st minute, and Najeeb Ullah rose highest to head the ball past Arsh Anwer Shaikh, who had little to do during most of the match. Pakistan scored again three minutes later, with McKeal Abdullah providing the cross from the right side of the penalty area. Alamgir Ghazi controlled the delivery before finishing with an acrobatic effort to make it 3-2. Indian team will next face Maldives in their final Group B fixture on November 11 at the same venue. The top two teams from each group will progress to the semi-finals.

Ranbir Kapoor reveals daughter Raha shot a scene for 'Ramayana' as Alia shares BTS pictures

Highlights Ranbir Kapoor has revealed that daughter Raha was part of a shot with him and Sai Pallavi on the sets of Ramayana . The actor said he wants Raha to watch the film for the moral values it teaches, adding that he and Alia Bhatt regularly tell her stories from the epic. Alia recently shared behind-the-scenes pictures of Ranbir and Raha on the film's sets, praising her husband for balancing his work and family life. Ranbir Kapoor has revealed that his daughter, Raha, has already been part of the journey of Ramayana , sharing that she even filmed a shot with him and Sai Pallavi while visiting the sets. The actor spoke about his daughter's connection with the epic during an interview with BBC News. He also explained why he hopes Raha will watch his upcoming film, saying he wants her to understand the moral values associated with the story. His comments have gained fresh attention after Alia Bhatt shared behind-the-scenes pictures of Ranbir and Raha together on the sets of Ramayana on social media. Raha Kapoor filmed a shot on the Ramayana sets Speaking about his daughter's interest in the epic, Ranbir said Raha had visited the film's sets several times and had become familiar with the story through the conversations she shares with her parents. Raha herself is so interested in the story of Ramayana. Alia and I always tell her stories. She's visited sets many times. She's given a shot with Sai (Pallavi), me, and Lakshman also. She's been part of this journey, he said. Ranbir plays Lord Ram in the film, while Sai Pallavi portrays Sita. The actor's reference to Lakshman was to Ravie Dubey, who plays the character. However, Ranbir's comments do not establish which character Raha plays or whether her shot will feature in the final film. The revelation offers a glimpse into how the project has become a family experience for the actor, with his daughter spending time on the sets while he worked on the ambitious adaptation. Alia Bhatt shares behind-the-scenes pictures with Raha Alia recently offered fans a glimpse of Ranbir's time on the Ramayana sets by sharing behind-the-scenes pictures featuring her husband and daughter. The photographs showed Ranbir in his Lord Ram appearance alongside Raha, giving fans a personal look at the actor's experience of working on the film while spending time with his family. Alia's post also highlighted the effort Ranbir has put into the project and the importance of making time for their daughter despite his demanding schedule. The pictures have added another dimension to Ranbir's revelation about Raha's involvement in a shot, bringing together his comments about her interest in the epic and the family's memories from the sets. Ranbir Kapoor wants Raha to learn Ramayana's values Beyond her appearance on the sets, Ranbir said he hopes Ramayana will be the first story Raha watches on screen because of the lessons it can offer. I'd like my daughter to watch Ramayana. The intention to become a better person came at the right time in my life. It coincided with me being a father, he said. The 44-year-old added that becoming a parent had made him reflect on the values he wanted to pass on to his children. I think there are certain moral values that my parents passed on to me, and I would like to pass on to my children as well. I think Ramayana is a great start. It really sets your value system in place, he explained. Ranbir and Alia welcomed Raha in November 2022. The couple have spoken about parenthood on several occasions, and his latest comments show how he hopes to introduce their daughter to stories that have shaped his own understanding of life. The actor's portrayal of Lord Ram in Ramayana is directed by Nitesh Tiwari. The film is planned as a two-part adaptation, with the first instalment scheduled for a theatrical release during Diwali 2026.

Israel: Opposition seeks to oust Ohana as Knesset Speaker; Ohana to allow debate on majority request

Opposition parties in Israel are seeking to replace Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana during the inaugural session of the 26th Knesset on November 10, with their combined parliamentary strength giving them the numbers to elect his successor, although disagreements over a replacement candidate remain unresolved, The Times of Israel reported. The move follows separate letters from Yisrael Beytenu and the Democrats demanding that the election of a new speaker be placed on the agenda of the opening session on November 10. Responding to the demands, Ohana, a Likud lawmaker, said that he would schedule an early discussion on electing his successor if at least 61 lawmakers formally requested it.

Bihar: Tejashwi Yadav meets Madhubani firing victims family members; promises govt job

Digital Desk | Patna, Nov 5 (IANS) Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Assembly, Tejashwi Yadav, on Thursday visited the residence of Ashok Yadav, who was killed in the Madhubani firing incident, and met his grieving family. Tejashwi arrived at the victim's residence with his convoy at around 4:50 p.m. and spent nearly 20 minutes with the bereaved family. He paid floral tribute to Ashok Yadav's portrait and offered condolences to his wife, Smita Devi, and son, Sitesh Kumar. During the meeting, Tejashwi encouraged Sitesh to concentrate on his studies and clear his Class 12 examinations. He assured him that he would take up his case with the government and fight for a government job for him. He also extended financial assistance to the family and assured them of all possible support. After meeting the family, Tejashwi proceeded to a nearby venue to address a public gathering, where he described the incident as heart-wrenching and unforgivable. Launching an attack on the state government, he questioned how those who had become Chief Minister through the 'back door' could claim to maintain law and order in Bihar. He alleged that the state's law-and-order machinery had effectively collapsed. Tejashwi further alleged that the police, whose responsibility is to protect citizens, had turned into predators. Taking a swipe at the Bihar Police, he remarked that signboards should be installed at roads and intersections declaring that the police force had developed a criminal disposition. Demanding justice for Ashok Yadav's family, he also raised questions over the lack of action in the Roshan Yadav case. He alleged that people in Bihar were now being forced to make their own arrangements for personal security. The RJD leader also targeted the NDA's ongoing padyatra, alleging that it was an attempt to protect those responsible for 'vote theft'. He further accused the Central government, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah of shielding Gyanesh Kumar and others involved in the alleged electoral irregularities.

CITU to Organise Parliament March on Dec 1 Demanding Withdrawal of Labour Codes

The four labour codes -- the Code of Wages (2019), Industrial Relations Code (2020), Code on Social Security (2020) and Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code (2020) came into effect in November last year after being passed in Parliament

Seven killed, 18 injured in PoK as Pakistani forces target protesters with gunfire and drones

Digital Desk | Islamabad, Nov 5 (IANS) At least seven people, including children, were killed and 18 others seriously injured on Thursday after Pakistani security forces allegedly opened fire and carried out drone strikes against peaceful protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), the United Kashmir People's National Party (UKPNP) said. The UKPNP strongly condemned the indiscriminate firing, excessive use of force, and alleged drone attacks by security forces targeting peaceful protesters and residential areas in Rawalakot, PoK. Citing information received, the group alleged that Pakistani security forces targeted peaceful protest sit-ins at Matialmera Bus Terminal, Umar Farooq Chowk and other locations in Rawalakot during the early hours of Thursday, reportedly using heavy machine guns, armoured vehicles and drones. The UKPNP identified the three deceased as 35-year-old Atif Jardees, 30-year-old Ehtisham Younis and 32-year-old Adil Rashid, while also raising concerns over reports of four children being killed in an alleged drone attack in the region. A house belonging to Shakeel Khan near Matialmera Bus Terminal was reportedly destroyed by fire following an alleged drone attack. Disturbing reports also say that four children may have died in the incident. These claims require urgent independent verification, and further casualties are feared, the group stated. Describing the use of lethal force against peaceful, unarmed civilians as a grave human rights concern requiring immediate international scrutiny, the UKPNP said, The Kashmiri people are peacefully demanding fundamental rights, essential public services, protection of property, human dignity and the rule of law. Their legitimate demands must not be answered with bullets, intimidation or collective punishment. UKPNP called on the United Nations, European Union and the wider global community to urgently address the deteriorating situation in Rawalakot and other affected areas in PoK. It stressed that international diplomatic efforts must prioritise preventing further violence, protecting civilians and ensuring respect for human rights. Independent investigators must examine the reported killings, injuries, alleged drone attacks, destruction of homes and other allegations of serious human rights violations. Transparent investigations are essential to establish the facts, determine accountability and protect the lives and dignity of peaceful civilians, it said, raising alarm over escalating atrocities against civilians by Pakistani forces in the occupied territory. Recently, six UN Special Rapporteurs on human rights raised serious concerns over Pakistan's designation of the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) as a terrorist organisation in PoK, citing alleged state violence against protesters, deaths, arrests and other human rights abuses over a long period. In a recent letter addressed to the Pakistani government, the UN experts questioned the designation of JAAC and the reported use of counter-terrorism measures against the organisation and individuals associated with it. We are concerned that the designation may not be consistent with international standards concerning terrorist listings, and that JAAC may have been unjustifiably listed in retaliation for its political, labour and human rights advocacy, in violation of international human rights law, the letter mentioned. We are further concerned about human rights violations alleged to have occurred in the context of protests following the designation, including restrictions on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and association, excessive use of force during peaceful demonstrations, unlawful killings, arbitrary arrests, and restrictions on communications, it added.

INDIA bloc stages protest in B'luru, demands CEC Gyanesh Kumars resignation

Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Nov 5 (IANS) The INDIA bloc on Thursday staged a 'Save the Vote, Save the Nation' protest rally at Freedom Park in Bengaluru against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and demanded the immediate resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The protest was attended by Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, ministers, MLAs and MPs, along with leaders of the AITC, RJD, NCP(SP), Shiv Sena(UBT), CPI(M), CPI, SP, JKNC, JKPDP, CPI(ML), JMM, IUML, KC(M), MDMK, VCK, RSP, Kerala Congress (Joseph) and the All India Forward Bloc. Addressing the gathering, former Chief Minister and Congress Working Committee (CWC) member Siddaramaiah demanded CEC Kumar's resignation, alleging that the BJP has no chance of winning the 2029 Lok Sabha elections. Without SIR, the BJP cannot come to power, no matter what it does. The BJP cannot win by any chance in the 2029 elections. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is losing popularity, and his image will not remain the same in the future, Siddaramaiah said. He claimed that the BJP and the RSS would be defeated in 2029 and that the Constitution and democracy would be protected. Siddaramaiah said the agitation was being carried out across the country, focusing on two prominent issues and referred to a massive protest held in Delhi on November 1. He said the INDIA bloc had organised the protest in Karnataka as part of the nationwide campaign. Questioning the process through which Gyanesh Kumar was appointed as the Chief Election Commissioner, Siddaramaiah alleged that changes were made to the selection committee after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. He claimed that the BJP did not secure a majority on its own in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, despite the NDA winning 240 seats, and alleged that the government subsequently adopted what he termed cunning strategies. Siddaramaiah said the earlier selection committee for the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner included the Prime Minister, the Chief Justice of India and the Leader of Opposition. He alleged that the government changed the composition of the committee by removing the Chief Justice of India and including a Union Cabinet Minister. He said Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had opposed the move and the appointment of Gyanesh Kumar. Siddaramaiah further alleged that the SIR exercise was subsequently implemented unilaterally. The BJP will make Gyanesh Kumar its puppet. While winning elections, they indulge in communalism and illegalities, he alleged. He further claimed that names could be selectively removed from electoral rolls in areas where the BJP feared electoral setbacks, and also alleged that the party had used different strategies to win the 2014, 2019 and 2024 elections. Siddaramaiah called upon all political parties and citizens to oppose the SIR exercise and reiterated his demand for Gyanesh Kumar's resignation. Karnataka Congress President and MLC B.K. Hariprasad said the leaders and workers had gathered to protect the Constitution and democracy. For nearly one year, all political parties, barring the BJP and its allies, have been united and staging protests. The important issue now is that eligible voters are being removed from the final voters' list. This is a conspiracy, he alleged. According to Hariprasad, the protesters alleged that early 15 crore eligible voters could be excluded from the electoral rolls. The protest adopted resolutions demanding that the SIR exercise be scrapped, alleging that it was against democratic principles. The gathering demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and called for the repeal of the law governing the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner.

Ranji Trophy: Prithvi Shaw hits fifty as Maharashtra trounce Bengal

Maharashtra secured a commanding 10-wicket victory over Bengal in their Ranji Trophy Elite Group C match, chasing down a target of 112 runs in just 19.4 overs.

Ram Takes 7/48 As Tamil Nadu Crush Chandigarh In Ranji Trophy

Ajith Ram delivered an exceptional all-round performance, scoring an unbeaten 115 and claiming 7/48, to lead Tamil Nadu to a commanding innings and 259-run victory over Chandigarh in their Ranji Trophy Elite Group D clash.

Mayawati questions EVM-based voting, says people seeking return to ballot papers

BSP chief Mayawati has raised concerns about the credibility of electronic voting machines and fair elections. She stated that many people are demanding a return to the ballot paper system. Mayawati linked these election integrity issues to broader socio-economic challenges faced by the country. The BSP's longstanding opposition to EVMs has gained traction, particularly among younger voters.

Understanding the Role and Salary of a Train Manager in Indian Railways

The role of a Train Manager in Indian Railways is both prestigious and demanding, offering a competitive salary and various allowances. This article explores the salary structure, which starts at 29,200, and the rigorous selection process through the RRB NTPC exams. With 2,750 vacancies announced for 2026, aspiring candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria, including a graduation degree and medical standards. The application deadline is November 6, 2026. For those interested in a fulfilling career in the railways, understanding these details is crucial.

Karnataka INDIA bloc protests SIR, demands CEC Gyanesh Kumars resignation

The INDIA bloc's Karnataka unit held a protest at Bengaluru's Freedom Park against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, demanding accountability from the Election Commission and the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

INDIA Bloc Protest to Continue Until CEC Resigns: Karnataka Cong Chief Hariprasad

The INDIA bloc's Karnataka unit is holding a protest at Freedom Park in Bengaluru, demanding the resignation of Gyanesh Kumar and the scrapping of the SIR.

Till Gyanesh Kumar resigns, protest will continue: BK Hariprasad at Karnataka's INDIA bloc rally against SIR

Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President BK Hariprasad on Thursday said that the INDIA bloc's protest against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls would continue until Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar resigns. The INDIA bloc's Karnataka unit is holding a protest at Freedom Park in Bengaluru, demanding the resignation of Gyanesh Kumar and the scrapping of the SIR.

Karnataka: INDIA bloc stages protest against SIR, seek CEC Gyanesh Kumar's resignation

The INDIA bloc's Karnataka unit is holding a protest at Freedom Park in Bengaluru on Thursday against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. The protest, which started at 11 AM and will go on until 2 PM, is being organised by the Congress, CPI(M), CPI, CPI(ML) Liberation, Forward Bloc and Samajwadi Party, along with other progressive parties, social organisations and student and youth organisations involved in the anti-SIR agitation. The protest is being presided over by Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President BK Hariprasad. Multilingual film actor Prakash Raj, CPI(M) State Secretary Prakash K, CPI State Secretary Sathi Sundaresh, CPI(ML) Liberation State Secretary Clifton D'Rozario, Forward Bloc President JR Shivashankar and Samajwadi Party President N Manjappa are also participating. Representatives of vario...

Probe intensifies against Kerala PSC chairman; BJP to meet Prez Murmu seeking board's dismissal

Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 5 (IANS) The heat is mounting on Kerala PSC Chairman M.R. Baiju as the Special Investigation Team (SIT) steps up its probe into the examination scam, and the BJP moves to seek the dismissal of the entire commission board. The SIT wants to question Baiju again, this time alongside the arrested Additional Secretary R. Hari, to confront the two over the alleged manipulation of the State Planning Board examination. However, the Chairman has been giving reasons to avoid the questioning, according to sources. The Crime Branch suspects that Baiju's unilateral decisions paved the way for the irregularities. Hari, who was taken into custody for questioning, has denied any role in skipping the evaluation of 10 questions. He told investigators that the responsibility rested with the now-retired Deputy Secretary Satheesh (already arrested) and that he was unaware that the questions had been left unchecked. The SIT has not accepted his explanation. The examination was held for the post of Chief in the State Planning Board. A total of 228 candidates appeared for the first paper. However, questions numbered 10 to 18, carrying 58 marks, were not evaluated for any candidate. In the case of 51 candidates, only questions 1 to 9 and 18 to 28 were checked. For the remaining 177 candidates, only questions 1 to 8 and 18 to 28 were evaluated. The investigation has found that the evaluation was allegedly terminated midway through a fake software login. PSC members have told investigators that Baiju alone decided the panel that prepared the questions and the officials who evaluated the answer scripts. The PSC Secretary, Saju George, has also reportedly told the Crime Branch that Baiju made decisions without consulting others and blamed officials whenever controversies arose. He said Baiju and Hari jointly took decisions, but the Chairman often acted unilaterally. Meanwhile, a three-member BJP delegation is scheduled to meet President Droupadi Murmu to seek action against the PSC board. The delegation comprises the BJP state president and MLA, Rajeev Chandrasekhar and nominated Rajya Sabha members C. Sadanandan and P.T. Usha. The move follows a letter written by outgoing Governor Rajendra Arlekar to the President, seeking steps to dismiss the present PSC board over the serious allegations surrounding the commission. The latest developments have put the spotlight on the future of the commission, whose credibility has been severely dented by the examination scandal. And on the flip side, the pro-CPI(M) PSC Employees Union is staging a protest demanding that the PSC be left alone and its credibility not be affected through any vindictive action.

Democratic leader Jeffries launches bid to be first Black Speaker, vows to 'eradicate Trump tariffs'

Digital Desk | Washington, Nov 5 (IANS) House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries has formally launched his bid to become the next Speaker of the US House of Representatives, a day after his party won control of Congress, pledging to scrap President Donald Trump's tariffs and act as a check on the administration. If elected, the New York Democrat would be the first Black Speaker in American history. I write to humbly request your support in connection with my candidacy to serve as the next Speaker of the House of Representatives, Jeffries wrote in a Dear Colleague letter to members of the incoming 120th Congress, released by his office on Wednesday (local time). He closed by seeking their backing o serve as the 57th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives. We must now deliver the dramatic change the American people are demanding in the majority, he wrote. Jeffries said he would ask Democrats to act decisively in three key areas: (1) Affordability (2) Accountability and (3) American Values. On trade, he blamed oxic GOP policies like the Trump tariffs and war in Iran for rising costs. During the first 100 days, House Democrats must act to reverse the Medicaid cuts, restore SNAP funding, extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits, eradicate the Trump tariffs and stop the reckless war of choice in Iran, he wrote. On oversight, he said, The days of the House functioning like a wholly owned subsidiary of the Trump Administration are over. Congress will assume its place as a check and balance on an out-of-control executive branch. On immigration, Jeffries said House Democrats had refused o provide taxpayer dollars to Donald Trump's violent mass deportation machine because we believe that immigration enforcement should be fair, just and humane. He listed among the party's values our heritage as a nation of immigrants. Late on Wednesday, Jeffries posted on X that House Democrats are on track to win at least 255 seats. The letter does not mention India, H-1B visas or legal immigration by name. For India, the tariff pledge is the most direct point of contact. A Democratic House would control the chamber's committees and could use hearings and legislation to scrutinise the administration's trade measures, including those affecting Indian exports, though any bill to roll back tariffs would still need to clear the Senate and face Trump's veto. Additionally, Democratic control would shift which bills on immigration reach the House floor. Indian nationals are the largest users of the H-1B programme and make up much of the employment-based green card backlog, so committee chairs' choices on high-skilled immigration bills will be closely watched by the Indian American community. The Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, co-chaired by Democrat Ro Khanna, who won a sixth term on Tuesday, will be operating in a majority-Democratic House for the first time since 2022. Jeffries' bid comes as Republicans regroup. Speaker Mike Johnson told staff he would not run for minority leader in the new Congress. Majority Leader Steve Scalise and Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan have both told colleagues they want the job.

Bangladesh garment factories close as workers clash with police in protests

Police in Bangladesh fired tear gas and used stun grenades Wednesday to disperse garment workers protesting for higher wages, police and witnesses said. Hundreds of factories remained shut after days of protests disrupted the country's garment industry, which earns about USD 40 billion a year from exports. Bangladesh has some 2,500 garment factories. Workers are demanding a minimum monthly wage of 30,000 takas (USD 245), up from 12,500 takas. They say rising living costs and inflation have eroded their purchasing power. The industry employs about 4 million workers, mostly women from rural Bangladesh. After days of demonstrations in the capital, Dhaka, violence was reported in several industrial areas on its outskirts. In Fatullah, in Narayanganj district outside Dhaka, dozens of people were injured in clashes between protesters and police, according to media reports. Police fired tear gas and used stun grenades. Prothom Alo, Bangladesh's largest Bengali-language daily, reported t

Ranji Trophy 2026-27:Qamran, Shubham smash centuries, J&K take 106-run lead against Pondicherry

Srinagar, Nov 4:J&K produced a sensational batting performance on the third day of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group match against Pondicherry, with openers Qamran Iqbal and Shubham Khajuria smashing magnificent centuries to put the hosts in a commanding position at the Sher-i-Kashmir Cricket Stadium here on Wednesday. Resuming their first innings at 149 without loss, J&K rode on a monumental 344-run opening partnership between Qamran and Shubham to reach 491 for five at stumps, taking a crucial 106-run lead over Pondicherry. Qamran, who had remained unbeaten on 68 overnight, went on to score a brilliant 160 off 292 deliveries, while Shubham converted his overnight 80 into a magnificent 190 off 330 balls. Both batters displayed remarkable patience and composure, disappointing the Pondicherry bowlers throughout the first two sessions and putting J&K in a commanding position. The opening stand was eventually broken when Shubham was dismissed by Sagar Udeshi for 190, narrowly missing out on a double century. Qamran followed shortly after, falling to Ankit Sharma for 160. Their departure, however, did little to derail J&Ks momentum as the middle order continued to contribute valuable runs. Kawalpreet Singh remained unbeaten on 53, while Abdul Samad scored 37 and Sahil Lotra contributed a quick 30 off 26 deliveries. At stumps, Kawalpreet was batting on 53 and wicketkeeper Rydham Sharma was unbeaten on two. Pondicherrys bowlers struggled to contain the hosts, with Sagar Udeshi claiming two wickets, while Gaurav Yadav, Sagar Trivedi and Ankit Sharma picked up one wicket each. The days play marked a significant turnaround for J&K, who had struggled with the bat in their previous matches and were under pressure after managing just two points from their first three outings. The unbeaten opening stand provided the foundation for a strong first-innings total and gave the hosts a genuine opportunity to push for an outright victory. With five wickets remaining and a 106-run lead, J&K will look to extend their advantage further on the final day before declaring their innings and giving their bowlers enough time to dismiss Pondicherry. The hosts will be hoping that their bowlers can build on Sunil Kumars six-wicket haul from the first innings and complete a much-needed victory in their fourth match of the season.

Hitachi Energy, KFin, Jubilant Food flash bullish technical signs: Analyst

Stocks to buy today: Jatin Gedia of Teji Mandi Investment said Hitachi Energy, KFin Technologies, and Jubilant FoodWorks are flashing bullish technical signals.

Bangladesh garment factories close as workers clash with police in pay protests

Bangladesh's garment workers have been demanding a minimum wage increase due to rising living costs. Following their protests, police intervened with tear gas and stun grenades in several areas. Factory shutdowns were reported, impacting the countrys crucial garment industry significantly. The government is responding by forming a new wage board to address workers demands. Workers are expected to receive their first salaries under this new pay scale in January.

Beyond the Maternity Hospital Question

Anantnag has long been one of Kashmirs most important historical, administrative and commercial centres. Its institutions serve not only the district itself but also people from across South Kashmir and Chenab area who depend on them for essential public services. Yet, when it comes to healthcare infrastructure, the region continues to face serious questions about the adequacy of specialised facilities and the pace at which essential projects are delivered. The recent statement by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah that the land identified at Janglat Mandi is insufficient for the proposed 250 bedded Maternity and Child Care Hospital has brought these concerns into sharp focus. The Chief Minister has said that funds are available and an alternative site will be identified. While this assurance offers hope, it also raises a fundamental question about project planning. If the land is inadequate, why was this not established before the project reached this stage? A hospital of this scale requires careful assessment of land, building design, emergency access, utilities and future expansion before implementation begins. If the selected site cannot accommodate the proposed facility, the administration must explain when this constraint was identified, what assessment was conducted and why the issue was not resolved earlier. Technical difficulties can arise in public projects, but uncertainty over such a basic requirement demands a clear explanation. The public deserves a transparent account of the decisions taken so far. The chronology of the project makes the latest development particularly concerning. While the present proposal for a 250 bedded maternity facility took shape in 2024 and 2025, the broader issue of relocating Anantnags maternity hospital dates back more than a decade. The existing Sher Bagh facility was declared unsafe in 2014, yet it continues to serve patients, raising a fundamental question that what kind of engineering and administrative judgement allows a healthcare facility declared unsafe to remain operational for over a decade? Concerns about its condition, limited space and overcrowding have persisted for years. A proposal for a 200 bedded hospital at Janglat Mandi was submitted in December 2025, with the proposed capacity subsequently increased to 250 beds. The project then encountered difficulties concerning its proposed funding mechanism and the preparation of the Detailed Project Report. In March 2026, an allocation of approximately `86 crore was announced. Yet, by October 2026, the suitability of the site remained unresolved. The concern, therefore, is not merely about a delay in a recently proposed project, but about the persistence of a critical healthcare infrastructure gap for more than a decade, while the safety of mothers, newborns and healthcare workers demands urgent attention. Further delay could also substantially increase the projects eventual cost. Rising construction costs, revised estimates and prolonged administrative processes can place additional pressure on public funds. The possibility of the cost doubling before construction begins deserves serious attention, although the actual escalation must be established through updated project estimates. This sequence demands a thorough review of the planning and decision-making process. The administration must establish whether the land was assessed against the hospitals actual requirements, whether alternative sites were considered and whether the increase in capacity necessitated a fresh assessment. Essential healthcare projects cannot be allowed to move from one unresolved obstacle to another while patients continue to wait. The people of Anantnag deserve clear answers, defined timelines and visible progress towards construction. Maternity care cannot wait indefinitely for administrative decisions. Complicated pregnancies may require emergency surgery, blood transfusion and intensive monitoring, while newborns may need specialised neonatal care and immediate intervention. Such services require safe buildings, adequately equipped labour rooms, functional operation theatres and trained personnel. The government must expedite the new hospital while taking immediate measures to ensure safe and adequate services at the existing facility. Anantnags healthcare challenge extends far beyond maternity services. Beyond the long-pending demand for a Maternity and Child Care Hospital (MCCH), which remains a pressing necessity given the inadequacy and reported safety concerns surrounding the existing facility, serious concerns also persist regarding the availability of specialised and critical care services across South Kashmir. Patients often have to travel to Srinagar for advanced treatment, adding to their financial burden and compounding the difficulties faced by families during medical emergencies. The proposal for a 500 bedded multispeciality medical college hospital at Dialgam deserves serious consideration by the Health and Medical Education Department. This is a broader vision for healthcare development in South Kashmir that has been advocated for more than a decade. Rather than limiting investment to a standalone maternity facility, the regions long-term needs should be assessed through the proposed development of a comprehensive hospital bringing maternity and child healthcare, general medicine, general surgery and allied specialities under one roof. Srinagars tertiary hospitals remain indispensable to Jammu and Kashmir. However, Anantnags healthcare institutions serve not only South Kashmir but also patients from neighbouring districts and adjoining areas of the Jammu division, including Ramban, Doda and Kishtwar. This wider catchment area places additional demands on its healthcare infrastructure and specialised services. The objective is not to diminish the importance of Srinagars hospitals but to strengthen healthcare facilities in South Kashmir so that patients can receive appropriate treatment closer to home. A balanced healthcare system requires strong regional institutions alongside well-equipped referral centres. The available land at GMC Anantnag Dialgam warrants a formal feasibility assessment for the proposed multispeciality hospital. If found suitable, it could accommodate future expansion and reduce referrals to Srinagar. The proposal to transfer MCCH at Sher Bagh and MMAMB Hospital at Janglat Mandi to the Health Services Department should also be examined to ensure continuity of care and efficient use of existing infrastructure. The earlier proposal to shift maternity services to the Rehmat Alam building at Sarnal also deserves attention. Published reports indicate that the relocation did not proceed after a technical assessment found the structure unsuitable in its existing condition. This episode raises questions about the assessment of existing infrastructure, the use of public funds and the lessons incorporated into subsequent planning. The wider issue is regional equity. Anantnag is a major centre whose healthcare institutions serve communities across South Kashmir. Its needs must be assessed against the population served, patient loads, specialist availability and referral patterns. Equity does not mean favouring one region over another. It means allocating public resources according to demonstrable need. For the maternity hospital, the immediate priorities are clear. The administration must identify a suitable site, disclose the reasons for its selection, clarify the funding status and publish a realistic timeline for approvals, tendering, construction and commissioning. Responsibility for each stage should be clearly assigned. The existing maternity facility must also receive urgent attention while the new hospital is being developed. The measure of governance is not the number of projects announced or reviewed but whether they become functional facilities that improve peoples lives. For a pregnant woman requiring emergency care, a hospital is not an abstract development promise. It is where timely treatment can protect her life and that of her child. Anantnag does not need another assurance that its healthcare problems will eventually be resolved. It needs sound planning, transparent decisions and a credible timeline. If the land was inadequate, the government must explain why this was not established earlier. If the funds are available, it must explain what is preventing construction. Above all, the people of South Kashmir deserve healthcare infrastructure that reflects their needs and allows them to access essential treatment without avoidable delays. Dr Sheikh Mushtaq Ahmad is a former Professor of Neonatology, SKIMS and HOD Paediatrics GMC Anantnag. Peerzada Mohsin Shafi hails from Anantnag and write on issues related to infrastructure development.

Spend more time in India: Rijiju takes jibe at Rahul, list conditions for Congress to win more MPs

Kiren Rijiju has been taking on Rahul Gandhi and other Congress leaders for demanding an open debate with the Prime Minister

SKIMS & SKIMS MCH Sports Series 2026 Promotes a Culture of Fitness, Wellness and Togetherness

BEYOND MEDICINE An appreciable initiative at SKIMS Medical College, Bemina, highlights the importance of physical fitness, mental well-being and teamwork in building a healthier medical community. There are initiatives that go beyond routine institutional activities and reflect a deeper understanding of human well-being. The commencement of the SKIMS Sports Series 2026 at SKIMS Medical College and Hospital, Bemina, is one such commendable initiative. More than a sporting event, it represents a progressive approach towards creating a healthier, more energetic, connected and mentally resilient medical community. In a profession where demanding schedules, academic responsibilities and professional pressures are part of everyday life, the importance of sports and recreational activities cannot be overstated. Medical students and healthcare professionals spend much of their time caring for others. However, their own physical and mental well-being deserves equal attention. The SKIMS Sports Series 2026 provides a meaningful platform to recognise this important aspect of institutional life. Jointly involving SKIMS Soura and SKIMS Medical College, Bemina, the fortnight-long sporting event brings together members of the medical fraternity through a wide range of indoor and outdoor competitions. From cricket, football, volleyball and basketball to badminton, chess, table tennis, kabaddi and athletics, the initiative encourages participation, healthy competition and collective enthusiasm. A welcome initiative reflecting progressive leadership The initiative deserves appreciation for the vision and encouragement demonstrated by the institutional leadership. Director SKIMS and Ex-Officio Secretary to the Government, Prof. Mohammad Ashraf Ganie, attended the inaugural ceremony as chief guest and highlighted the importance of sports in fostering a healthy institutional environment. His emphasis on resilience, teamwork and collective achievement reflects the broader role that sports can play in strengthening institutional relationships. Equally appreciable is the approach of Principal SKIMS Medical College and Hospital, Bemina, and Dean Medical Faculty, Prof. Fazl-ul-Qadir Parray. His recognition of recreational activities as an important opportunity for students and healthcare professionals to unwind, interact and develop stronger interpersonal relationships highlights the human dimension of institutional leadership. An institution becomes stronger when its leadership recognises that professional excellence is closely connected with the well-being of its human resources. Encouraging sports is not a distraction from academic and clinical responsibilities; rather, it is a positive investment in the people who fulfil those responsibilities. The important role of the Department of Psychiatry The initiative assumes even greater significance because of its association with Mental Health Month, observed from October 10 to November 10, and the involvement of the Department of Psychiatry under the leadership of Prof. Abdul Maajid, Head of the Department and Organising Chairperson. Mental health is no longer a subject that can be confined to clinical consultations, awareness lectures or discussions within hospital departments. It requires a broader institutional approach that promotes positive engagement, social interaction, stress management and psychological resilience. Sports offer an effective platform for achieving many of these objectives. Regular physical activity can improve mood, support better sleep, reduce stress and contribute to overall psychological well-being. Team games encourage cooperation, mutual respect, discipline and the ability to handle both success and disappointment. For medical students navigating the pressures of examinations, clinical postings and professional expectations, such opportunities can be immensely valuable. Similarly, resident doctors and healthcare professionals, who frequently work under demanding circumstances, deserve opportunities to relax, reconnect with colleagues and participate in activities beyond their professional routines. The involvement of the Department of Psychiatry in this initiative sends a positive message: mental well-being must be encouraged not only through treatment but also through prevention, participation and the creation of supportive environments. Building relationships beyond professional boundaries Another notable feature of the SKIMS Sports Series is its house-based competition format. The system of awarding 10 points for gold, five for silver and two for bronze medals, with the highest-scoring house being declared the House of the Year, introduces a healthy spirit of competition. However, the real achievement of such an event should not be measured merely by medals, trophies or points accumulated by different houses. Its greater success lies in the friendships developed between departments, interaction between students and faculty, encouragement received by first-time participants and the sense of belonging created across the institution. In large medical institutions, professional responsibilities sometimes create invisible boundaries between departments, cadres and academic levels. Sports have the unique ability to bring people together on an equal platform. On the playing field, designations become secondary, while teamwork, discipline and collective effort take centre stage. This is precisely the kind of institutional culture that deserves encouragement. Sports as an essential part of institutional well-being The significance of the SKIMS Sports Series should extend beyond the fortnight-long celebration. Such initiatives remind us of the importance of making physical activity and recreation an integral part of institutional culture. Medical institutions are traditionally associated with academic excellence, clinical services, research and patient care. However, a truly progressive institution also recognises the importance of extracurricular activities, sports facilities and opportunities for the holistic development of its students and employees. Regular sporting activities, interdepartmental competitions, fitness programmes and recreational opportunities can contribute significantly towards creating a more vibrant and supportive working environment. The participation and appreciation of Associate Dean Prof. Aijaz A. Rather, Chairperson Sports Committee, and Medical Superintendent Dr. Shafa A. Deva, along with the faculty members and various participating departments, further reflect the collective institutional spirit behind this initiative. The coordinated efforts of the organisers, like Dr Mir Musharraf , Dr Rasika and particularly the Department of Psychiatry under the leadership of prof Dr Ab Majid, deserve special recognition for bringing together different sections of the medical fraternity on a common platform. A healthier medical community, a stronger institution Ultimately, the SKIMS Sports Series 2026 conveys a simple but powerful message: excellence in healthcare requires more than medical knowledge, sophisticated infrastructure and professional expertise. It also requires healthy, motivated and emotionally resilient individuals. A student who learns teamwork on the playing field carries those values into professional life. A doctor who understands the importance of personal well-being is better positioned to appreciate the well-being of others. An institution that encourages recreation and sports demonstrates that it values its people beyond their official responsibilities. The SKIMS Sports Series 2026 is therefore a welcome and appreciable step towards building a balanced institutional culture in which academic excellence, clinical service, physical fitness and mental well-being complement one another. As the sporting activities continue until November 14, the enthusiasm, participation and collective spirit generated by this initiative deserve to be celebrated. The real victory will not belong to any single house or team. It will belong to SKIMS as an institution, where sports become a medium of unity, fitness becomes a shared priority and mental well-being receives the attention it truly deserves. Because an institution that heals society must also nurture the health, happiness and well-being of the people who serve it. (The Author works at Premier Medical College of J&K)

NC rebel MLAs eye ministerial berths: MLA Langate

Srinagar, Nov 4: MLA Langate Sheikh Khursheed has accused rebel legislators of the National Conference (NC) of fighting for ministerial positions rather than raising issues concerning the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He also questioned the intentions behind their demand for statehood. Speaking to Rising Kashmir, Khursheed said the ongoing differences within the National Conference appeared to be driven by personal interests, particularly the demand for ministerial berths and positions. He said the people of Jammu and Kashmir had every right to question whether the statehood demand raised by some NC legislators in Delhi was genuinely aimed at addressing public concerns or increasing opportunities for ministerial appointments. Are these people demanding statehood for themselves and their ministries? Khursheed questioned. Explaining his argument, he said a state can have ministers up to 15 per cent of the total strength of its Legislative Assembly, while a Union Territory has a maximum ministerial limit of 9 per cent. He said the difference in ministerial strength under the two arrangements raised questions about the intentions behind the statehood demand and the protests held by some legislators in Delhi.

Odisha vigilance trap: Cop jumps into pond to escape arrest in Sambalpur

Digital Desk | Bhubaneswar, Nov 4 (IANS) The Odisha Vigilance on Wednesday nabbed a police Sub Inspector (SI) while accepting a bribe from a man in exchange for settling a miscellaneous case registered against him. The accused cop, identified as Sujit Kumar Mahanta, is presently posted as SI at the Mahulpali Police Station in Sambalpur district. The agency, in an official statement, noted that the accused was caught red-handed while taking a bribe of Rs.10,000 from the complainant to finalise a miscellaneous case registered against the complainant at the Police Station, of which he was the Investigation Officer (IO). However, in a dramatic turn of events, after receiving the bribe money, Mahanta suddenly spotted the Vigilance team and realised that he had fallen into the agencys trap. He then fled the spot in an attempt to evade arrest. As the Vigilance team chased him, the SI jumped into a nearby pond to escape. However, a constable in the vigilance team jumped and swam into the pond and apprehended Mahanta. The entire bribe money was recovered and seized from the possession of Mahanta in the presence of witnesses. The agency said that the right-hand wash of Mahanta gave a positive chemical reaction, confirming taking and handling of bribe money by him. Following the trap, simultaneous searches have been launched in the restroom of Mahanta adjoining to Mahulpali Police Station, the government quarter of his father at Bandamunda, Rourkela and his office room. During searches, cash Rs.1,55,700 has been recovered from the restroom of Mahanta adjoining to Mahulpali Police Station, Sambalpur and seized. According to the vigilance, accused SI Mahanta has been detained for further interrogation. In this connection, a case (21/26) has been registered at the Sambalpur Vigilance Police Station on November 3 under section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018. It is worth mentioning that the Odisha Vigilance has registered as many as 232 trap cases and arrested 274 persons, including 31 Class-I officers and 38 Class-II officers, while demanding and taking bribes worth Rs.58.39 lakhs during the period from June 12, 2024, to October 26, 2026.

Asian Champions Trophy: India summit clash with Japan after emphatic 8-1 win over South Korea

Digital Desk | Mohali, Nov 4 (IANS) Shilanand Lakra and Dilpreet Singh struck a brace each as the Indian men's hockey team booked their place in the final of the Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026 with a dominating 8-1 win over South Korea in the semifinal at the Olympian Balbir Singh Senior International Hockey Stadium in Mohali on Wednesday. Shilanand Lakra scored in the 4th and 13th minutes, while Dilpreet Singh succeeded in the 21st and 25th minutes, and Harmanpreet Singh (9'), Sukhjeet Singh (21'), Angad Bir Singh (36') and Vivek Sagar Prasad (54') were also on target. Sangjun Han (9') scored Korea's only goal. The semifinal was Indias first international match in the Mohali stadium and was played in front of a vociferous crowd. The five-time champions, who had finished the league stage unbeaten with five wins from five matches, carried that form into the knockout match and will now face Japan in Thursday's final. Japan edged Malaysia in a shootout after the first semifinal remained goalless through 60 minutes of regulation time. India started on the front foot and took the lead in the fourth minute through a well-worked team goal. Dilpreet collected the ball around the nine-yard area in the striking circle and passed it to Sukhjeet before receiving it back. He then cut the ball across from the baseline for Shilanand to deflect it into the net from close range. Korea responded in the ninth minute when Sangjun Han deflected a pass from the right past goalkeeper Suraj Karkera. Nonetheless, India restored their lead almost immediately through a penalty corner, with skipper Harmanpreet sending a powerful drag-flick into the net. India earned another penalty corner in the 13th minute. Harmanpreet's first attempt was saved by goalkeeper Kim Jaehyeon, but Shilanand reacted quickly on the rebound to score his second goal. The second quarter began with five quiet minutes before India stepped up their attacking play. Sukhjeet made it 4-1 with a fine reverse-flick after controlling a sensational pass from Sanjay, turning past a defender and finding the net. India struck again in quick succession when Angad and Dilpreet combined in a neat one-two, with Dilpreet stretching to guide the ball into the net. Dilpreet added his second goal in the 25th minute, controlling Harmanpreet's long aerial pass into the circle before beating the goalkeeper with a reverse-flick. India went into the half-time break with a commanding 6-1 lead. The proceedings after the break started bizarrely when Korea captain Kim Yong Bok received a five-minute yellow card because the visitors fielded more than 11 players on the pitch. Things got worse for them in the 36th minute as Angad added India's seventh goal after Jarmanpreet Singh made a strong run down the right and sent the ball into the circle. India also earned a penalty corner after Shilanand was struck by a rebound, but Amandeep Lakra's attempt was saved by the Korean goalkeeper. The visitors struggled to create chances in the final quarter; although they earned a penalty corner, Park Geunwoo's attempt went wide. Soon after, Vivek added India's eighth goal in the 54th minute with a fine solo effort, carrying the ball from the right into the circle before beating the goalkeeper with a reverse hit. And as soon as the hooter went off, the packed stands erupted, and the fireworks lit up the venue. Dilpreet was named Player of the Match for his two goals. He credited teamwork for India scoring eight goals against Korea in a second consecutive game. Our aim was to execute our plans. It doesn't matter who scores and who doesn't. It is very special to play in Punjab, with our families in the stands and represent India in front of them. Thanks to all the fans for their energy. We look forward to seeing the fans in the final as well, he said. Earlier, Japan booked their place in the final after beating Malaysia 5-3 in a shootout following a goalless draw in the first semifinal. Before that, in the classification match for the 5th-6th place between China and Bangladesh, the Chinese team finished their tournament with a 3-1 win. India, defending champions and five-time winners of the Asian Champions Trophy, will now look to secure a record-extending sixth title when they meet Japan in the final on Thursday in Mohali.

Zee's Sa Re Ga Ma Pa: Anu Malik and Kumar Sanu revisit the songs that shaped a generation of Bollywood fans

Highlights Anu Malik returned to Zee TV's Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2026 as a special judge for a few weeks. The composer looked back on his early struggles in the Hindi film industry and the music of the 1990s. Seeing Kumar Sanu on the show reminded Malik of recording the song Baazigar O Baazigar . Zee TV's Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2026 brought together two familiar names from Bollywood music as composer Anu Malik made a special appearance alongside singer Kumar Sanu. Malik, who has been associated with the singing reality show in the past, returned as a special judge for a few weeks. His appearance also offered an opportunity to revisit the music and memories of an era that helped shape Hindi film soundtracks. During the episode, Malik reflected on the challenges he faced when he was starting out in the industry, recalling a time when established composers such as R D Burman, Laxmikant-Pyarelal and Kalyanji-Anandji dominated the music scene. Anu Malik remembers his early struggles in Bollywood Malik recalled that he was around 18 or 19 when he was trying to establish himself as a composer. With several celebrated names already commanding the industry, getting even one song recorded was a major achievement. He spoke about the hard work involved in finding opportunities and making a place for himself in Hindi film music. The episode also brought back memories of recording in the 1990s. The presence of a 100-piece orchestra reminded Malik of the scale and atmosphere of music sessions from that period. Kumar Sanu brings back memories of Baazigar Seeing Kumar Sanu on the show reminded Malik of recording Baazigar O Baazigar , one of the memorable songs associated with the 1993 film Baazigar . The appearance offered a nostalgic moment for viewers familiar with the music of 1990s Bollywood, when playback singers and composers helped create songs that remain popular with audiences. A young contestant from Maharashtra also impressed Malik with a performance of Kali Kali Aankhen , another song associated with Baazigar . Anu Malik returns for his fourth stint on the show Malik's special appearance marks his fourth stint as a judge on Sa Re Ga Ma Pa . This season features Shankar Mahadevan, Javed Ali, Neeti Mohan and Kumar Sanu as judges, with actor Shreyas Talpade hosting. Speaking about his return, Malik said he had fond memories of being associated with the show and enjoyed meeting young singers with passion and potential. He added that singing was not simply about technical skills such as sur and taal , but also about the emotion a performer brings to a song and the way it makes listeners feel. The 2026 season continues to give aspiring singers a platform to showcase their talent, with grand performances, a 360-degree stage and more than 100 musicians and chorus performers adding to the musical experience.

Best AirPlay speakers for iPhones and Apple Music

Macworld Apples HomePod and HomePod mini are obvious choices for Apple users, but there are plenty of alternatives that work with your iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple TV. Whether you want a compact kitchen speaker, a multi-room setup or a stereo system for music and TV, you could find features and value that better suit your needs. AirPlay makes it easy to stream audio from your iPhone, iPad or Mac to a compatible wireless speaker, while AirPlay 2 lets you play music across multiple rooms. You can listen to your own music library or stream from Apple Music , Spotify and other services. We explain how AirPlay works and what it offers later in this guide. Our picks cover a range of designs, features and budgets to help you choose the best speaker for your Apple devices. For Apple Music and Siri, start with the HomePod mini 2 or choose the full-size HomePod for richer sound. The Audio Pro A28 W is a good option if you want separate stereo speakers and a TV connection, while the Sonos Era 300 is our pick for Dolby Atmos music. AirPlay 2 support is a priority for the speakers in this roundup, particularly if you want to build a multi-room system. We also include portable options for listening around the house or away from home, clearly identifying which support AirPlay and which rely on Bluetooth so you can choose the right connection for the way you listen. Best speakers for iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple TV 2026 Weve tested the best speakers you can buy to use with your Apple products below, so read on to find out which AirPlay speakers are best. HomePod mini 2 Best compact speaker for Apple Music Pros Impressive sound for its size Apple Music voice control Flexible stereo and multiroom playback Cons Limited improvement over original Requires constant external power Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $149 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Why we like it: Its a compact sound system offering effortless Apple Music playback. The HomePod mini 2 suits iPhone owners who want a compact speaker for Apple Music, with Siri voice control and multiroom playback. At $149/149, its pricier than its predecessor. Our colleagues at Macwelt found its sound slightly clearer and punchier, with impressive results for its size, but the improvement is too small to justify replacing a working original. Setup requires an iPhone or iPad and Wi-Fi, with settings managed through Apples Home app. You can ask Siri to play Apple Music, send audio using AirPlay, or transfer playback by bringing a compatible iPhone close. Touch controls handle playback and volume. Original minis and mini 2s work together for multiroom listening, but stereo pairs require matching models. At 84.3mm high, 97.9mm wide and 335g, it fits easily on a shelf or bedside table. Wireless connections include Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 6 and Thread. Theres no battery: its suitable for moving between power outlets indoors. On compatible Macs with Wi-Fi 6E or later, it also works as the default speaker. You can also use four HomePod mini 2 speakers for TV surround sound with the fourth-generation Apple TV 4K, arranging them as matching front and rear pairs. Alternatively, use two second-generation HomePods at the front and two mini 2 speakers behind you. Macwelt found latency reduced, but still excessive for recording instruments. For better stereo separation, buy two matching minis; for stronger bass and bigger sound, consider the full-size HomePod. Existing owners should keep their original minis unless they need the new audio options or forthcoming Siri AI. Sound Glows animated lighting also works on the original, so that alone is no reason to upgrade. Apple HomePod (2nd generation, 2023) Best HomePod for sound quality Pros Rich, detailed, room-filling sound Dolby Atmos music playback Easy setup and stereo pairing Cons Siri can be frustrating No wired audio input Price When Reviewed: $349 (was $299) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $349 View Deal $349 View Deal $349 View Deal $349 View Deal $349.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Why we like it: It offers rich, immersive sound with powerful bass and Dolby Atmos support. The second-generation HomePod suits Apple Music subscribers who want fuller sound than the mini can deliver, particularly for a living room or an Apple TV setup. At $349/349, the premium buys stronger bass, greater detail and Dolby Atmos support. In our testing, its presentation was rich, immersive and better balanced than the original HomePod, with particularly pleasing results across classical, pop and rock. Setup is straightforward: plug it in, bring an iPhone close, select a room and wait a few minutes. Settings live in Apples Home app, while Apple Music playback requires a subscription. Control music through Siri, your iPhone or the touch surface; our reviewer found phone control intuitive but Siri frustratingly prone to choosing the wrong songs. AirPlay supports other audio apps and multiroom playback alongside HomePods and minis. Measuring 168mm high and 142mm wide, and weighing 2.3kg, its compact enough for a shelf but needs a permanent power connection. Theres no battery, so think occasional moves between rooms rather than outdoor portability. Connections include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0 and Thread, but no wired audio input; the power cable is detachable (the first-generation wire was attached, but could become detached). The full-size HomePod is worth the extra over a mini if bass, room-filling sound and spatial audio are your priorities. If your budget allows, two second-generation HomePods create a more immersive stereo system: our reviewer found the results stunning, particularly with Apple TV. Stereo pairs must use the same HomePod model and generation, but different models can play together in a multiroom setup. If you already have two second-generation HomePods, you can add two HomePod mini 2 speakers as rear surrounds, provided you also have a fourth-generation Apple TV 4K running the latest software. Read our full Apple HomePod (2nd generation, 2023) review Audio Pro C10 MKII W Best for sound quality Pros Clear, detailed, powerful sound Versatile wireless and wired connections Useful app and preset controls Cons Deep bass lacks impact No USB-C audio input Price When Reviewed: $425 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Audio Pro $425 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Why we like it: It offers clear, detailed sound with versatile connections. The Audio Pro C10 MKII W suits listeners who want a main music system with more connection options than a HomePod. Our reviewer preferred its clarity and precision even to Apples full-size speaker. Vocals sounded smooth, strings and percussion retained their detail, and dense rock arrangements remained distinct. Its 80W output comfortably handles living-room listening, although the deepest bass could have more impact. The Audio Pro app provides streaming services, EQ and room correction, while six preset buttons recall saved playlists or radio stations without reopening the app. For Apple Music, use AirPlay 2 from your iPhone, iPad or Mac; our reviewer used an iPad successfully. AirPlay 2 also enables multiroom playback with HomePods and compatible speakers from other brands. Google Cast, Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect broaden its appeal beyond Apple households. Measuring 166 320 180mm and weighing just over 4kg, this is a speaker to leave in one room. It needs mains power, has no battery, and doesnt have a water-resistance rating. Connections include dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, RCA input and a subwoofer output, but no USB-C audio. It earns its premium over a HomePod mini through sound quality, power and connectivity. Against HomePod 2, our reviewer favored its clarity and precision; RCA input and a subwoofer output add flexibility. Choose HomePod 2 for Siri and Dolby Atmos. Paired minis merit consideration for stereo separation. Read our full Audio Pro C10 MKII W review Audio Pro A28 W Best stereo speakers for music and TV Pros Expansive, detailed stereo sound HDMI ARC for TV audio Flexible streaming and multiroom support Cons Needs space and connecting cable No USB-C or 3.5mm input Price When Reviewed: $650 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Audio Pro $650 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Why we like it: You get spacious stereo sound and flexible connections for music and TV. If you prefer separate stereo speakers, the Audio Pro A28 W is an excellent option for music and TV sound. Our reviewer found its presentation more spacious and immersive than a single HomePod, with smooth vocals, weighty bass and clear percussion even in busy tracks. Its combined 150W output filled the room comfortably without approaching maximum volume. Setup involves connecting the left speaker to mains power and linking it to the right using the supplied speaker cable. Bluetooth provides a quick connection, while Wi-Fi enables AirPlay 2 playback from Apple Music and other iPhone, iPad or Mac apps. Multiroom support includes Audio Pro, AirPlay 2 and Google Cast. The Audio Pro app offers a 10-band equalizer and sound presets, while an included remote handles playback and input selection. Each sturdy MDF cabinet measures 238 150 200mm, and the pair weighs 6.43kg. They need bookshelf or stand space, and their connecting cable makes moving them less convenient than relocating a single speaker. Theres no battery or published water-resistance rating. Wired connections include RCA, optical and HDMI ARC for a TV, plus a subwoofer output; USB-C and 3.5mm inputs are absent. Choose the A28 W over a HomePod mini if you want a powerful main music system with separate stereo speakers and wired connections. The HomePod 2 offers Dolby Atmos, built-in Siri and suits smaller spaces and tighter budgets. Read our full Audio Pro A28 W review Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Pro Edition Best premium all-in-one music speaker Pros Powerful, detailed, room-filling sound Stereo from one enclosure AirPlay 2 multiroom support Cons Large and expensive No wired audio inputs Price When Reviewed: $799 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $899 View Deal $899 View Deal $899 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Why we like it: Its a distinctive all-in-one wireless speaker offering powerful, detailed sound. The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Pro Edition suits Apple Music listeners who want a powerful main music system without separate speaker cabinets. Its distinctive enclosure houses left and right channels alongside a dedicated subwoofer, with 240W of amplification. Our reviewer praised its precise strings, rich cellos and clear vocal harmonies, while rock tracks had weighty guitars and crisp electronic detail. For network setup, the Bowers & Wilkins Music app guides you through naming the speakers location and connecting to Wi-Fi; an account and email verification are required. The app provides streaming services, bass and treble adjustments, and lighting controls. Apple Music plays through AirPlay 2, which also enables multiroom listening with compatible speakers, including HomePods. Alternatively, Bluetooth supports standalone playback without network setup. Theres no built-in voice assistant. At 650mm wide, 210mm high and 194mm deep, and weighing 6.6kg, this needs a substantial shelf or sideboard. It requires mains power, has no battery, and, it seems, no water-resistance rating. Bluetooth includes AAC and aptX Adaptive, but there are no wired audio inputs: the USB-C port doesnt accept music playback. Its bass, power and built-in stereo channels justify spending more than on a mini. Against the HomePod 2, it offers stereo from one enclosure and Bluetooth playback, but costs more and lacks Siri and Dolby Atmos. Choose HomePod for those features; Zeppelin for a dedicated music system. Read our full Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Pro Edition review Sonos Era 100 Best for building a Sonos system Pros Clear, room-filling stereo sound AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth playback Flexible Sonos multiroom system Cons No Dolby Atmos support Wired input needs extra adapter Price When Reviewed: $219 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check on Amazon Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Why we like it: It offers flexible connectivity and an expandable multiroom system. The Sonos Era 100 suits listeners who want a compact music speaker with room to build a multiroom system. Its two angled tweeters deliver stereo sound from one cabinet, while a substantial woofer supplies convincing bass. In our listening tests, Enyas layered vocals sounded light and shimmering, electronic details remained crisp, and rumbling drums gave the presentation weight. Initial setup requires Wi-Fi and the Sonos app, even if you subsequently use Bluetooth. The app manages services and settings, including Trueplay room tuning and adjustable EQ. Apple Music plays through AirPlay 2 from an iPhone, iPad or Mac. You can group compatible speakers through AirPlay or build a Sonos multiroom system, while touch controls handle playback, volume and grouping. Measuring 182.5 120 130.5mm and weighing 2.02kg, it fits comfortably on a shelf or kitchen counter. It needs mains power and has no battery, making it suitable for occasional moves between rooms. Sonos describes it as humidity resistant; dont treat that as waterproofing. Connections include Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, with line-in or Ethernet available through separately purchased USB-C adapters. Spend more than on a HomePod mini for the Era 100s stereo presentation, Bluetooth and optional wired input. Choose HomePod 2 if Dolby Atmos and built-in Siri matter more; the Era 100 doesnt support spatial audio. In our listening tests we felt that two Era 100s widened the stereo soundstage though. JBL Cove M1 Best compact alternative to HomePod Pros Warm, detailed, engaging sound Straightforward setup and AirPlay playback Stereo and multiroom support Cons No Dolby Atmos support No wired audio input Price When Reviewed: $229.95 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price JBL $229.95 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Why we like it: It offers warm, detailed sound with AirPlay, Bluetooth and flexible multiroom playback. The JBL Cove M1 suits Apple users who want a compact AirPlay speaker with the option to expand into a multiroom system. At $229.95/199.99, its an accessible entry point to JBLs Cove range. Our listening tests found warm strings and delicate electronic chimes on Madonnas Frozen, followed by sharp percussion and an energetic guitar riff that kept the music moving. Setup is straightforward: the JBL One app connects over Bluetooth, then prompts for your Wi-Fi password. Once connected, you can play Apple Music through AirPlay 2 without returning to JBLs app. Bluetooth provides another playback option, while built-in Alexa handles voice requests. Theres a switch to disable the microphone if you prefer. Available in black or white, the M1 measures 184mm high and 125mm wide and deep, making it easy to accommodate on a desk or shelf. Three tweeters and a 105mm woofer fit inside. It requires mains power, so its suited to moving between rooms rather than taking out. Connections include dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, but theres no 3.5mm or USB-C audio input. Consider it over a HomePod mini if you want Bluetooth playback, Alexa or integration with JBLs MK2 soundbars. Two M1s can form a stereo pair, and multiroom playback is supported. HomePod 2 offers Dolby Atmos and built-in Siri; the M1 is a compact alternative if those features matter less than connection flexibility and expanding a JBL system. Sonos Roam 2 Best portable AirPlay speaker Pros Clear sound with convincing bass Lightweight, waterproof, backpack-friendly design AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth playback Cons Modest ten-hour battery life Wi-Fi setup proved fiddly Price When Reviewed: $179 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Sonos $139 View Deal $178 View Deal Adorama $179 View Deal $179 View Deal $179 View Deal $179 View Deal $179 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Why we like it: You get clear, lively sound in a lightweight, waterproof, genuinely portable speaker. The Sonos Roam 2 suits listeners who want one speaker for home listening and days out. Our reviewer found impressive clarity and respectable bass for its size, with fuzzy rock guitars, energetic keyboards and crisp percussion all handled confidently. Wi-Fi playback sounded clearer than Bluetooth, making AirPlay worthwhile when youre at home. Getting started over Bluetooth is straightforward thanks to a dedicated pairing button. For Wi-Fi, AirPlay and Sonos multiroom listening, use the Sonos app. Our reviewer encountered difficulties with separate 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks, although playback worked well once connected. Apple Music streams from your Apple devices through AirPlay 2 at home or Bluetooth outdoors. Physical buttons control playback and volume. At 168 62 60mm and just 430g, it slips easily into a backpack. Its IP67 rating protects against dust and immersion in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes. Battery life reaches ten hours at moderate volume. Charging works through USB-C or a compatible Qi wireless pad, but theres no wired audio input, and a power adapter isnt included. Choose it over a HomePod mini if battery power and outdoor durability matter: this is genuinely portable, rather than simply movable between outlets. HomePod 2 makes more sense for a permanent living-room system where bigger sound and Dolby Atmos take priority. A stereo pair offers another home-listening option. Read our full Sonos Roam 2 review Sonos Era 300 Best for Dolby Atmos music Pros Powerful, immersive Dolby Atmos sound Detailed vocals and substantial bass AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth playback Cons Bulky and expensive Wired input requires extra adapter Price When Reviewed: $499 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Adorama $449 View Deal $449 View Deal Sonos $449 View Deal $499 View Deal $499 View Deal $499 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Why we like it: It offers immersive Dolby Atmos music with detailed vocals and substantial bass. The Sonos Era 300 suits Apple Music subscribers who want to explore spatial audio or expand a Sonos system. Its six drivers project sound forward, sideways and upward, creating an expansive presentation. Our listening tests revealed deft percussion, weighty guitar riffs and shimmering cymbals on the Atmos mix of the Beatles Come Together , with plenty of bass underpinning the detail. Setup requires mains power, Wi-Fi and the Sonos app, which provides Trueplay room tuning and EQ controls. For Apple Music in Dolby Atmos, add the service to Sonos and start playback through its app. AirPlay 2 offers convenient playback from Apple devices and multiroom listening with compatible speakers. Touch controls handle playback and volume, while Bluetooth provides another connection option. Measuring 185 260 160mm and weighing 4.47kg, this needs a permanent spot with room around its drivers. Theres no battery; its intended for indoor listening, with humidity resistance rather than outdoor waterproofing. Connections include Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3 and USB-C for optional line-in or Ethernet adapters, sold separately. Its spatial audio capabilities justify spending more than on a HomePod mini if immersive music is your priority. HomePod 2 also offers Dolby Atmos, with built-in Siri and a smaller enclosure; the Era 300 adds Bluetooth and optional wired input. Two Era 300s widen stereo separation, while TV surround use requires a compatible Sonos soundbar. A single Era 300 isnt a standalone Atmos soundbar replacement. How to choose an AirPlay speaker Theres a lot to think about when buying an AirPlay speaker so make sure you read this buying advice before splashing the cash. Music streaming & compatibility Having your favorite music follow you around your home is great, but conventional multi-room speakers often have significant limitations. Many, for example, will only work with a limited number of streaming services that are built into the apps provided by each manufacturer. As you might expect, most will work with Spotify , while Tidal and Deezer also get a lot of support. But for some reason, Sonos is one of the few manufacturers of multi-room speakers that also supports Apple Music . In fact, some speakers only provide apps for iOS or Android mobile devices, which means that you cant even play music from a Mac. The other big problem with conventional speakers in the past was that you have generally had to buy them all from one manufacturer when assembling a multi-room setup because rival speakers were incompatible and wouldnt work together. AirPlay vs AirPlay 2 The speaker market changed dramatically in 2018 with the release of Apples updated AirPlay 2 software. Released to coincide with the original HomePod launch, AirPlay 2 has also been licensed to a number of well-known manufacturers, which means theres now a wide range of compatible speakers available. In fact, every model in our top 10 works with AirPlay 2. The first version of AirPlay, released back in 2010, was like a souped-up version of Bluetooth, allowing you to stream audio from any app on your Mac or iOS devices to any AirPlay-compatible speaker and freeing you from reliance on the manufacturers apps. AirPlay also uses a Wi-Fi connection, which means a higher bandwidth than Bluetooth and better sound quality not to mention longer range. The simplicity and versatility of AirPlay is great, but like Bluetooth its original version was only designed to work with one speaker at a time. AirPlay 2 takes Apple into the multi-room market, with the ability to stream music to several speakers in different rooms. (Alternatively, you can create a HomePods stereo pair in the same room.) But the real game-changer with AirPlay 2 was interoperability, the ability to link together speakers from different manufacturers for the very first time. This means you can mix and match speakers around your home picking, for instance, a HomePod as your main living-room speaker, a Sonos in the bedroom, and a portable speaker for drinks in the garden and have them all linked up to play music simultaneously. Which version of AirPlay is supported? The important thing to remember is that there are now two types of AirPlay speaker. Some older models will use the original version of AirPlay which is limited to streaming music to one speaker at a time but new speakers (and certainly all the speakers in this article) focus on AirPlay 2. Some will have the AirPlay logo on the packaging, but this doesnt specify whether its AirPlay or AirPlay 2. Its therefore important to check which version is supported by any speaker before buying. Given that AirPlay 2 has been around for three years, it would be surprising to see a manufacturer release an AirPlay 1 speaker right now, but it doesnt hurt to check. You dont want to get caught out. Its also worth mentioning that some older AirPlay speakers can be upgraded to work with AirPlay 2 as well. Libratones new Zipp 2 uses AirPlay 2, but its possible to download a software update for the older first-generation Zipp speakers that adds support for AirPlay 2. Unfortunately, thats not the case with all AirPlay speakers, and some models are stuck with basic AirPlay. Sound Quality vs Price The fact that Apple licenses both AirPlay and AirPlay 2 to other manufacturers has other advantages too. Namely, the option to choose from a wide range of (often lower-cost) third-party speakers from companies like Sonos and Ikea. At the other extreme, some really expensive hi-fi systems in the pipeline offer AirPlay 2 support for audiophiles and home cinema buffs. These options give you flexibility: you can spend heavily on a really high-quality speaker for your living room, for example, while opting for a less expensive model in the kitchen. Indoors vs Outdoors Some manufacturers provide more specialised speakers too, such as soundbars that you can use with your TV, or sub-woofers that can provide a bass boost for parties, or for sound effects when watching films. Some even include rechargeable batteries and lightweight, portable designs so you can pick them up and carry them from room to room which is certainly cheaper than buying a new speaker for each room or take them out into the garden for a barbecue. Connectivity Connectivity is another key issue. The HomePod has been criticised for relying on Wi-Fi for streaming, with no option for quick and easy Bluetooth streaming for Android and other non-Apple devices. It doesnt have a 3.5mm audio connector either, which would allow you to use it with a CD player or other audio devices. Fortunately, many AirPlay and AirPlay 2 speakers provide a greater range of connectivity, allowing you to play music from a wider range of devices than the HomePod. Sonos has even announced it will be releasing an AirPlay 2 amplifier soon that can form the centrepiece of a serious home entertainment system. In other words, AirPlay 2 is here to stay. Bluetooth only options Weve reviewed a few Bluetooth-only speakers that dont offer AirPlay, but are still good options to consider, especially if you are looking for something portable: Beats Pill Read our review Price When Reviewed: $149.99 Best Prices Today: $99.95 at Amazon | $99.95 at Walmart | $99.99 at B&H The Beats Pill suits listeners who want a portable speaker for camping, barbecues and days by the pool. Our reviewer found it reasonably loud and good-sounding below maximum volume, but bass lacks depth and heavy processing makes music sound constrained when pushed. Its better suited to casual outdoor listening than critical listening at home. Apple Music plays from your phone over Bluetooth or through USB-C, which also supports lossless audio. Basic playback and volume controls are straightforward, but powering off and pairing two Pills require less obvious button combinations. Our reviewer found these controls confusing and noted that the Android Beats app provides more help than iPhone settings. The bottle-shaped enclosure fits wherever you might carry a water bottle, while a silicone covering helps protect against knocks. Its IP67 rating provides water and dust resistance. Beats claims up to 24 hours of battery life; our reviewer didnt complete a rundown test but comfortably managed an afternoon at substantial volume. USB-C handles charging and can also top up your phone. Choose the Pill over a HomePod mini for battery-powered outdoor use, rather than home multiroom listening: it lacks Wi-Fi and AirPlay. Two Pills can play in stereo or share playback in Amplify mode. HomePod 2 is the better fit for a permanent indoor system with fuller sound, Dolby Atmos and built-in Siri. Buy the Pill for portability, durability and endurance. Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (3rd Gen) Read our review Price When Reviewed: $399 Best Prices Today: $399 at Bang & Olufsen The Beosound A1 suits listeners who want a compact, durable speaker for travel, beach trips and outdoor gatherings. Our reviewer found its midrange powerful and precise, with clear vocals, firm percussion and enough energy for demanding rock tracks. High frequencies occasionally get lost in busy arrangements, however, and the deepest bass lacks the impact of larger speakers. Apple Music plays from your phone over Bluetooth, with AAC support for Apple devices and aptX Adaptive for compatible Android hardware. Theres also USB-C audio, allowing a laptop to play music through the speaker while charging it. It has no Wi-Fi or AirPlay, so it wont join an AirPlay multiroom system. Measuring 46mm high and 133mm across, and weighing 576g, the aluminum enclosure slips into a bag. A rubber base helps prevent slipping, and a leather wrist strap makes carrying easier. Its IP67 rating protects against dust and immersion in one meter of water for 30 minutes. Battery life is rated at 24 hours at medium volume, although a carrying case isnt included. Choose the A1 over a HomePod mini if outdoor use, battery endurance and wired laptop playback justify the extra expense. HomePod 2 makes more sense for a permanent indoor system where fuller sound, Dolby Atmos, Siri and multiroom playback matter most. The A1s appeal is taking your music with you. How we test speakers at Macworld We test speakers in home environments to assess how they perform in everyday use. Our reviews cover design and build quality, ease of setup, sound quality and additional features, with the emphasis varying depending on the type of speaker. For sound quality, we listen for detail, clarity and tonal balance, including how naturally voices and instruments are reproduced. We pay particular attention to bass performance, especially with smaller speakers, assessing whether it lacks weight or overwhelms the rest of the sound. Most listening takes place at moderate volumes, but we also turn speakers up to check for distortion. We assess how easily each speaker connects to an audio source and whether that connection remains stable during use. Where a companion app is available, we consider how straightforward it is to navigate and use the speakers features. For smart speakers, we also test how reliably they recognize and respond to voice commands. Our recommendations draw on this hands-on testing and our reviewers experience, taking account of each speakers price, features and intended use.

Bangladesh Moves to Raise Garment Workers Pay After Protests

Tens of thousands of workers marched through industrial areas on Wednesday morning demanding higher wages, with some throwing bricks, torching police vehicles and erecting barricades, as police fired tear gas to disperse crowds.

Bangladesh agrees new garment pay scale from December amid protests

Workers are demanding the monthly minimum wage be raised to 30,000 taka ($242) from 12,500 taka, saying rising food, housing and transport costs have eroded their purchasing power

Pending refunds: Hyderabad Umrah operators threaten to boycott IndiGo, Air India Express

Hyderabad: Umrah tour operators here have threatened to stop booking tickets with IndiGo and Air India Express if the airlines fail to refund the lakhs of rupees collected from pilgrims whose return journeys were disrupted following the suspension of flights to Jeddah. The operators said they were facing mounting pressure from hundreds of pilgrims demanding 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 .

This Was For Her: Arshdeep Singh Reveals Story Behind Viral Celebration After ODI Heroics vs New Zealand

After a great T20I series, India started the ODI series with precision, defeating New Zealand. Veteran batter Virat Kohli struck a commanding 74 off 51 balls after Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar and Anshul Kamboj produced scintillating bowling performances

US stocks surge after Democrats' midterm victories; Dow jumps 1,150 points, Nasdaq gains 1.5 pc

US stock markets rallied sharply on Wednesday after Democrats registered commanding victories in key races across the country in the midterm elections, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average jumping 1,150 points at the opening bell, while the Nasdaq Composite and S

Mannarkkad maintains commanding lead in Palakkad district science fair

Arunachal capital shutdown evokes mixed response; offices function, shops remain closed

Digital Desk | Itanagar, Nov 4 (IANS) A 12-hour shutdown called by the People's Rights Action Committee (PRAC) in the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR) on Wednesday evoked a mixed response, with government offices functioning, shops and commercial establishments remaining closed, and vehicular movement continuing amid tight security arrangements. The shutdown was peaceful. There was no report of any law-and-order problem or untoward incident, a police official said. The shutdown, which began on Wednesday morning and ended in the evening, was called to demand the release of people detained in connection with the October 23 protests against the proposed 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) in Siang, East Siang and Upper Siang districts. The protesters are also demanding the withdrawal of security forces deployed in the project areas, revocation of suspension orders against Gaonburas (village headmen), and suspension of survey activities to prepare the Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) for the proposed project. PRAC has also raised several public welfare issues, including proper maintenance of roads in the ICR, availability of essential medicines and improvement of ambulance services. Police said additional security personnel had been deployed at sensitive locations, including the Civil Secretariat and Lok Bhavan, as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order. A police official of the Itanagar Capital Region (Naharlagun) said the shutdown remained peaceful. Around 30 protesters attempted to march from Bage Tinali near Nirjuli towards Indira Gandhi Park in Itanagar, but police personnel dispersed them, he said. Although vehicles continued to ply, roads across the capital region remained largely deserted, police added. Meanwhile, the Adi Galo Welfare Society began a foot march from Geku in Upper Siang district towards Itanagar on Wednesday to protest against the proposed 11,200 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, a mega-dam planned on the Siang River. The marchers are demanding the immediate withdrawal of paramilitary and Central Armed Police Forces personnel deployed in villages affected by the proposed project. They are also seeking the lawful and unconditional release of people arrested or detained in connection with recent anti-dam protests and clashes. The protests come amid growing opposition in parts of Arunachal Pradesh to the proposed hydropower project and the deployment of security personnel in the affected areas.

Bihar: INDIA Bloc demands disqualification of two MLCs after joining BJP

Digital Desk | Patna, Nov 4 (IANS) The political controversy over the membership of two Bihar Legislative Council members, Rahul Raj and Banshidhar Brajwasi, has intensified, with the INDIA Bloc demanding their disqualification for joining the BJP after winning elections as independent candidates. A delegation of INDIA Bloc leaders on Wednesday submitted a memorandum to the Acting Chairman of the Bihar Legislative Council, seeking termination of the membership of the two MLCs under the anti-defection provisions of the Constitution. The delegation was led by RJD National General Secretary and MLC Abdul Bari Siddiqui. Other alliance leaders, including MLC Sunil Kumar, were also present during the meeting. The INDIA Bloc leaders argued that Rahul Raj and Banshidhar Brajwasi had violated constitutional provisions by joining the BJP after being elected as independent candidates. Citing the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution, the delegation demanded that the Acting Chairman initiate proceedings against the two legislators and cancel their membership of the Legislative Council. The delegation also submitted video footage and other documentary evidence allegedly establishing that the two MLCs had joined the BJP. The leaders urged the Acting Chairman to examine the evidence and take appropriate action in accordance with constitutional provisions. Speaking after submitting the memorandum, Abdul Bari Siddiqui said the delegation had handed over several important pieces of evidence and demanded the immediate termination of the membership of both MLCs. RJD leaders maintained that the matter required a thorough constitutional and legal examination, arguing that elected independent representatives could not subsequently join a political party without attracting the provisions of the anti-defection law. The issue has now become a fresh political flashpoint in Bihar, with the final decision resting with the Acting Chairman of the Legislative Council. Notably, the Jan Suraaj Party had earlier submitted a separate memorandum to the Acting Chairman, also demanding the disqualification of Rahul Raj and Banshidhar Brajwasi on similar grounds. With the INDIA Bloc and Jan Suraaj approaching the Council authorities, attention is now focused on the proceedings and the decision of the Acting Chairman.

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

Macworld Choosing the right Apple Watch depends on your budget, lifestyle and which features matter most to you. As of September 2026, Apples lineup consists of the Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4 and Apple Watch SE 3, although the various combinations of case size, material, color and band can make choosing one seem like a bit of a minefield. The Apple Watch Series 12 is the best choice for most people, combining a tougher display and more advanced heart-rate sensing with an S11 chip and 24-hour battery life. The larger and more rugged Apple Watch Ultra 4 is designed for endurance sports and outdoor adventures, offering precision GPS, diving features and up to 50 hours of battery life. The Apple Watch SE 3 remains the best-value option for buyers who want the core Apple Watch experience and can live without features such as ECG and the latest health sensors. Apple updated the Series and Ultra models in September 2026, but the SE was unchanged. However, the SE 3 only arrived in 2025 and includes significant improvements over its predecessor, including an always-on display, temperature sensing and the same S10 chip found in the Series 11. You may also find older models at a discount, but check that the saving is worthwhile and bear in mind that watchOS 27 no longer supports every older Apple Watch. See our roundup of the best Apple Watch deals for the latest prices. In this guide, well explain the differences between the current models and help you decide whether you need to spend more on the Series 12 or Ultra 4 or whether the SE 3 offers everything you need. Well compare their features, specifications and prices, as well as explain the choices of sizes, case materials, colors and bands, so you can buy the Apple Watch that best suits your needs. Best Apple Watch: At a glance recommendations Buy the Apple Watch Ultra 4 if Buy the Apple Watch Series 12 if Buy the Apple Watch SE 3 if Charging You regularly spend 2+ days away from a charger. You charge your watch daily without issue. You dont mind charging your watch daily. Activity You are a runner, hiker, cyclist, or diver. You are a general fitness user or casual athlete. You want everyday fitness and activity tracking. Display You need the brightest display (3,000 nits) for outdoor visibility. You prefer a lighter, less bulky watch. You want an always-on display at the lowest price. Health & Safety You want satellite communication for safety. You want the best value for the core health features. You dont need ECG or advanced health sensing. Need You need the toughest, most durable build (titanium, sapphire crystal). You want a choice of sizes (42mm or 46mm) and materials (aluminum, ceramic). You want an affordable watch for a child or older relative. Apple Watch Series 12 Best Apple Watch for most people Pros Advanced heart-rate sensing Tougher Ceramic Shield display Readiness score Cons Battery life and charging varied in our testing No satellite connectivity Live Rewind and Siri Recap still pending (in developer beta) Occasional sluggishness during testing Price When Reviewed: $399 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $389.99 View Deal $389.99 View Deal $399 View Deal $399 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The Apple Watch Series 12 is Apples mainstream premium smartwatch and the best choice for most people. Its S11 chip powers a redesigned heart-rate sensor system that measures your heart rate every five seconds throughout the day. It also enables Audio Intelligence features including Sound Recognition, Live Rewind and Siri Recap. Live Rewind and Siri Recap are available to test in the watchOS 27.3 developer beta, released on November 3, 2026. Both initially support English. The design remains familiar, but Apple has introduced new finishes: Light Gold and Dark Bronze replace Silver and Rose Gold on aluminum models, while Radiant Gold replaces Gold on titanium versions. Ceramic cases also return in Night Blue and Pearl White. Prices still start at $399, although some configurations cost more than their Series 11 equivalents. Key advantages and limitations Aluminum models now use Ceramic Shield 2, which Apple claims is 60 percent more durable than the Ion-X glass used on the aluminum Series 11. Apple claims battery life remains at 24 hours, but outdoor workout tracking increases to 10 hours and the watch can charge to 80 percent in around 30 minutes. In our Apple Watch Series 12 review , we recorded 51 and 40 hours of battery life across two runs an average of 45.5 hours, compared with 47.5 hours for Series 11. Charging also varied: our Apple Watch Series 12 reached 58% and 72% after 30 minutes in separate tests, falling short of Apples claimed 80%. These results show that endurance can comfortably exceed Apples 24-hour rating, but they dont demonstrate a consistent improvement over Series 11. Actual battery life depends on usage. In the watchOS 27.3 developer beta, Live Rewind displays the previous 15 seconds of speech as text when you double-press the Digital Crown. However, assigning that gesture to Live Rewind means the traditional App Switcher is no longer available, making multitasking less convenient. The Series 12 also lacks the Ultra 4s satellite connectivity, 50-hour battery life and brighter, more rugged display. Who should buy the Apple Watch Series 12? The Series 12 is the best option for anyone who wants Apples latest health and smart features without the size or price of the Ultra 4. Its advanced heart-rate sensing, Readiness score, tougher display and relatively compact design make it particularly attractive to health-conscious users and anyone upgrading from a Series 9 or older. The new health features make Series 12 worth considering, but our review found variable battery life and charging, plus occasional sluggishness. Compare a discounted Series 11 if those health upgrades are not essential to you. Who shouldnt buy one? Series 10 and 11 owners probably wont gain enough to justify upgrading, especially because the quoted 24-hour battery life is unchanged. Outdoor adventurers who need satellite connectivity, extended workout tracking or maximum battery life should consider the Ultra 4 instead. Should I buy an older version of the Apple Watch Series? A discounted Series 10 or 11 could offer better value if you dont need the new health sensing or Audio Intelligence features. The Series 9 is also still compatible with watchOS 27. Avoid the Series 8 and older models unless they are exceptionally cheap, because they cannot run watchOS 27 and will miss out on future feature updates. Read our full Apple Watch Series 12 (42mm) review Apple Watch Ultra 4 Best Apple Watch for adventurers and endurance athletes Pros Exceptional 50-hour battery Advanced outdoor capabilities More frequent health measurements Cons Large and heavy Expensive for everyday users Price When Reviewed: $799 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $699.99 View Deal $774 View Deal $799 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is Apples most rugged and capable smartwatch, designed for endurance athletes and outdoor adventurers. It retains the Ultra 3s 49mm titanium case, 3,000-nit display, Action button, dual-frequency GPS, satellite connectivity, 100-meter water resistance and recreational diving support. Inside, the new S11 processor powers the redesigned heart-rate sensing system also found in the Series 12. It measures heart rate every five seconds throughout the day and enables Audio Intelligence features including Sound Recognition, Live Rewind and Siri Recap. Live Rewind and Siri Recap still pending are currently in the developer beta of watchOS 27.3. Key advantages and limitations Battery life is the Ultra 4s biggest improvement, increasing from 42 to 50 hours under normal use. Extended Workout mode provides up to 25 hours with full GPS and heart-rate measurements, while Max Extended Workout mode can track outdoor runs and walks for up to 45 hours. Charging is faster too, with a 15-minute charge providing up to 18 hours of use. Satellite connectivity, precision dual-frequency GPS, diving support and the bright display make it particularly well suited to demanding environments. However, its 49mm case is large and heavy, while charging to 80 percent takes around 45 minutes, compared with approximately 30 minutes for the Series 12. The external design is also largely unchanged. Pricing remains at $799, twice the Series 12s starting price. Who should buy the Apple Watch Ultra 4? Choose the Ultra 4 if you need the longest Apple Watch battery life, highly accurate GPS, satellite connectivity, diving support or extended workout tracking. It is particularly suited to runners, hikers, cyclists, divers and anyone who regularly spends more than a day away from a charger. Its extended battery life could also appeal to travelers and people working long shifts, even if they dont participate in extreme sports. Who shouldnt buy one? Most people will be better served by the smaller and less expensive Series 12. It provides the same S11 processor, redesigned heart-rate sensing and principal Audio Intelligence features without the Ultras bulk or $799 price. If you dont need satellite communication, precision GPS, diving support or exceptionally long workout tracking, you are unlikely to benefit from the additional expense. Should I buy an older Apple Watch Ultra? The Ultra 3 remains a strong alternative if substantially discounted, although its battery lasts up to 42 rather than 50 hours. The Ultra 2 is the oldest model compatible with watchOS 27 and may also be worth considering at the right price, but it lacks some newer connectivity and battery improvements. Avoid the original Ultra unless it is exceptionally inexpensive, because it cannot run watchOS 27. Apple Watch SE 3 Best budget Apple Watch Pros Excellent value for money Useful always-on display Fast, capable S10 chip Cons Missing advanced health sensors Shorter 18-hour battery life Price When Reviewed: $249 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $249 View Deal $249 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The Apple Watch SE 3 is Apples most affordable smartwatch and the best-value model in the current lineup. Introduced in September 2025, it brought substantial improvements over the SE 2, including an always-on display, the S10 processor used by the Series 11, temperature sensing, fast charging and 64GB of storage. It also supports Double Tap and Wrist Flick gestures, on-device Siri and media playback through its speaker. The aluminum case comes in Midnight or Starlight, but there is no longer a Silver option. Prices start at $249/219, although it can fall as low as $199 during sales. Key advantages and limitations The SE 3 provides the essential Apple Watch experience, including fitness and sleep tracking, Sleep Score, heart-rate alerts, temperature-based cycle tracking, sleep apnea notifications, Fall Detection and Crash Detection. Its Ion-X display glass is four times more crack-resistant than that of the SE 2, while cellular versions add 5G connectivity. Battery life remains limited to 18 hours, although Low Power Mode extends this to 32 hours. Fast charging reaches approximately 80 percent in 45 minutes, and a 15-minute charge provides around eight hours of use. The SE 3 lacks ECG, Blood Oxygen monitoring, hypertension notifications and the redesigned Health Sensing System found on the Series 12. Its 1,000-nit display, thicker bezels and limited material choices also make it feel less premium. Who should buy the Apple Watch SE 3? The SE 3 is ideal for first-time Apple Watch buyers and anyone who wants fitness tracking, notifications and safety features without paying for advanced health sensors. It is also a strong option for children when using the cellular model with Family Setup, and for older users who could benefit from Fall Detection, Emergency SOS and heart-rate monitoring. Who shouldnt buy one? Choose the Series 12 instead if you want ECG, Blood Oxygen monitoring, hypertension notifications, more advanced heart-rate sensing or a brighter, more premium display. Buyers who need multi-day battery life, satellite connectivity or specialist outdoor features should consider the Ultra 4. Should I buy an older Apple Watch SE? No. The SE 2 cannot run watchOS 27 and lacks the SE 3s always-on display, temperature sensing, faster charging, newer gestures and additional storage. Even at a substantial discount, its reduced software lifespan makes it difficult to recommend in 2026. Read our full Apple Watch SE 3 (40mm) review watchOS 27 features: Whats new and what requires Series 12 or Ultra 4 Apple released a new version of the software that runs on the Apple Watch watchOS 27 on September 14, 2026, but not every new feature is available on every supported watch. Some improvements are software-led and work across compatible models, while others depend on the S11 chip and redesigned sensors in the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4. The hardware-dependent health features unique to the 2026 Watches include background heart-rate measurements every five seconds and HRV (heart rate variability) measurements every five minutes . The Series 12 and Ultra 4 also gain the Readiness app , which analyzes recent activity, training load, sleep and health data to produce a daily recovery score. Other exclusives include daytime resting heart-rate and HRV data in Vitals, a real-time chart in the Heart Rate app, more accurate all-day step counting and a Steps complication that updates on the watch face. The S11 chip also enables Apples Audio Intelligence features . Automatic Music Recognition uses Shazam to identify nearby songs and display them in the Smart Stack, while Sound Recognition can detect doorbells, alarms, sirens and crying babies without relying on the iPhone. Live Rewind displays a transcript of the previous 15 seconds of conversation after a double-press of the Digital Crown; it does not save an audio recording. Siri Recap produces high-level summaries of conversations. Live Rewind and Siri Recap are available to test with the watchOS 27.3 and iOS 27.3 developer betas, released November 3, 2026. These features require an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone 16 or later, excluding iPhone 16e. They initially support English and are not yet available in the EU. Other watchOS 27 features are more widely available. These include the Dynamic App Grid , redesigned Find My app , menopause and perimenopause tracking, Call Context and Workout Buddy improvements. Apple has also introduced the Longevity section and Health Age . Compatibility is considerably more restricted than it was with watchOS 26. Series 9 and Ultra 2 are now the oldest supported models, while the SE 3 is the only compatible SE. The Series 6, Series 7, Series 8, SE 2 and original Ultra cannot install watchOS 27. Anyone considering a discounted older Apple Watch should therefore choose a Series 9, Series 10, Series 11, Ultra 2 or Ultra 3 if receiving current feature updates is important. See: These Apple Watches are now obsolete. Apple Watch comparison chart: Apple Watches specs compared Apple Watch SE 3 Apple Watch Series 12 Apple Watch Ultra 4 Price from $249/219 $399/369 $799/749 Screen size 40mm or 44mm 42mm or 46mm 49mm Display Always-on, up to 1,000 nits Always-on LTPO3, up to 2,000 nits Always-on LTPO3, up to 3,000 nits Weight from 40mm: 26.3g; 44mm: 32.9g 42mm: 32.2g; 46mm: 39.5g 63g Materials Aluminum Aluminum, titanium or ceramic Grade 5 titanium Colors Midnight, Starlight Aluminum: Dark Bronze, Light Gold, Black, Space Gray; Titanium: Radiant Gold, Natural; Ceramic: Pearl White, Night Blue Natural, Black Processor S10 S11 S11 Battery life Up to 18 hours; 32 hours in Low Power Mode; 080% in about 45 minutes Up to 24 hours; 38 hours in Low Power Mode; 080% in about 30 minutes Up to 50 hours; 84 hours in Low Power Mode; 080% in about 45 minutes Extra features Double Tap and Wrist Flick; on-device Siri; speaker media playback; 64GB storage Single Tap, Double Tap and Wrist Flick; Siri AI; Audio Intelligence; Readiness; Precision Finding; depth gauge; water-temperature sensor; media playback Series 12 features plus Action button, precision dual-frequency GPS, satellite communication, Siren, dual speakers, three-microphone array and extended workout modes Health features Heart-rate monitoring; high, low and irregular rhythm notifications; temperature sensing; Cycle Tracking with ovulation estimates; sleep stages; Sleep Score; sleep apnea notifications Health Sensing System; high-frequency heart-rate and HRV tracking; ECG; Blood Oxygen; hypertension notifications; Readiness; daytime Vitals; advanced Cycle Tracking; Sleep Score; sleep apnea notifications Same advanced health features as Series 12 Safety features Emergency SOS, international emergency calling, Fall Detection and Crash Detection Emergency SOS, international emergency calling, Fall Detection, Crash Detection, Check In and Backtrack Series 12 safety features plus Emergency SOS, Messages and Find My via satellite, and Siren Water features Water resistant to 50 meters; suitable for swimming Water resistant to 50 meters; depth gauge to 6 meters; water-temperature sensor; suitable for swimming and snorkeling Water resistant to 100 meters; depth gauge and recreational diving to 40 meters; water-temperature sensor; suitable for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving and high-speed water sports Connectivity Precision L1 GPS; optional 5G/LTE cellular Precision L1 GPS; optional 5G/LTE cellular; second-generation Ultra Wideband Precision dual-frequency GPS; 5G/LTE cellular; second-generation Ultra Wideband; satellite connectivity Which size Apple Watch should you choose? Choosing the right Apple Watch size depends on your wrist, how much display space you want and which model you prefer. Apples current lineup ranges from the compact 40mm Apple Watch SE 3 to the rugged 49mm Ultra 4. Model Available sizes Case dimensions Best for Apple Watch SE 3 40mm or 44mm 40mm: 40 34 10.7mm; 44mm: 44 38 10.7mm Smaller wrists, lighter watches and budget-conscious buyers. The 40mm version is the smallest current Apple Watch. Apple Watch Series 12 42mm or 46mm 42mm: 42 37 9.7mm; 46mm: 46 40 9.7mm The best balance of display size and wearability for most people. Apple Watch Ultra 4 49mm 49 44 12mm Athletes and adventurers who want the largest display, most durable construction and longest battery life. The Series 12 ceramic cases are slightly larger: approximately 43mm and 47mm rather than 42mm and 46mm. Apple Watch Series 12 (46mm) Price When Reviewed: $549 Best Prices Today: $539.99 at Amazon | $539.99 at Walmart | $549 at Apple United States Foundry Consider your wrist size and comfort The watch should feel secure without dominating your wrist or restricting movement. The 40mm SE 3 is the best option for particularly small wrists, while the 42mm Series 12 provides a larger display in a case that remains manageable for most people. If possible, try both sizes in an Apple Store before buying. Consider display size and readability A larger screen makes text, notifications and onscreen controls easier to see and use. The 49mm Ultra 4 has the largest display, but its 63g titanium case is substantially heavier than the aluminum Series 12 or SE 3. The 46mm Series 12 offers a spacious display without the Ultras additional bulk. Consider whether you need the Ultra Dont choose the Ultra 4 solely because it has the largest screen. Its size makes most sense if you also need its rugged titanium construction, satellite connectivity, precision dual-frequency GPS, diving support or 50-hour battery life. For everyday use, the Series 12 will generally be more comfortable. Check band compatibility Apple Watch bands arent universally interchangeable. Bands designed for smaller cases generally fit the 38mm, 40mm, 41mm and newer 42mm watches, while larger bands work with 44mm, 45mm, 46mm and 49mm models. However, the older 42mm case belongs to the larger band family, so check the compatibility information before reusing or ordering a band. Aluminum, titanium or ceramic: Which Apple Watch material is best? Foundry Another consideration when buying an Apple Watch is its case material, which affects its durability, weight, appearance and price. Apple currently offers aluminum, titanium and ceramic cases, although the available materials depend on the model. Aluminum: Best for most people Aluminum is the lightest and most affordable choice. It is the only material available for the Apple Watch SE 3 and the entry-level option for the Series 12, helping to keep their starting prices at $249 and $399 respectively. It is a good choice for everyday wear, fitness and sleep tracking because it feels lighter on the wrist than the premium alternatives. The SE 3 uses Ion-X display glass, which Apple says is four times more crack-resistant than that of the SE 2. The aluminum Series 12 has the tougher Ceramic Shield 2 display, which Apple claims is 60 percent more durable than the Ion-X glass used by the aluminum Series 11. Titanium: Best for premium durability Titanium is available with the Series 12 and is the only case material offered with the Ultra 4. It provides a more premium finish and is paired with highly scratch-resistant sapphire crystal rather than the glass used on aluminum models. The Series 12 titanium case is available in Natural or Radiant Gold. It is a good option for anyone who wants a more luxurious and durable everyday watch without moving up to the much larger Ultra. The Ultra 4 uses a rugged Grade 5 titanium case in Natural or Black. It is designed for outdoor adventures, endurance sports and diving, with a 49mm case, 100-meter water resistance and recreational diving support. However, its size and 63g weight make it less comfortable for smaller wrists and sleep tracking. Ceramic: Best for distinctive styling Ceramic returns as a premium Series 12 option in Pearl White and Night Blue. It has a glossy, distinctive finish and uses a sapphire crystal display, but it is heavier and considerably more expensive than the aluminum version. The ceramic cases are also slightly larger than the other Series 12 configurations. Which material is best for Apple Watch? For most buyers, aluminum offers the best balance of price, durability and comfort. Choose titanium if you want a more premium finish, sapphire crystal or the Ultra 4s specialized outdoor capabilities. Ceramic is primarily a style-led luxury choice for buyers who want the most distinctive Series 12 and are prepared to pay more for it. Which Apple Watch strap should you choose? Eugen Wegmann The right Apple Watch strap depends on how you intend to use your watch. Apple offers options for everyday wear, sleep tracking, exercise, water sports and formal occasions, while third-party manufacturers provide an even wider range of styles and prices. Strap Best for Key characteristics Sport Band Everyday wear, workouts and swimming Durable rubber with a secure pin-and-tuck closure. Water and sweat resistant, but less breathable than fabric. Sport Loop Sleep tracking and all-day comfort Soft, lightweight and breathable nylon with an adjustable hook-and-loop fastener. Nike Sport Band Running and intense workouts Similar to the Sport Band but perforated for improved ventilation. Nike Sport Loop Running and everyday wear A breathable fabric alternative to the Nike Sport Band. Solo Loop Everyday wear and sleep Stretchable silicone with no clasp or buckle. Comfortable, but choosing the correct size is essential. Braided Solo Loop Comfort with a smarter finish A stretchable woven band that feels more premium than the standard Solo Loop. Alpine Loop Hiking and outdoor adventures Durable double-layer textile with a secure titanium G-hook. Designed for the Apple Watch Ultra. Trail Loop Running, hiking and all-day wear Apples lightest Ultra strap, with a pull tab for quick adjustments. Ocean Band Swimming, diving and water sports Water-resistant elastomer with a corrosion-resistant titanium buckle. Milanese Loop Work and formal occasions Metal mesh with a magnetic closure, offering a smart appearance and precise adjustment. Link Bracelet Formal and premium wear Apples premium metal bracelet, with removable links for adjusting the fit. Modern Buckle or Magnetic Link Smart everyday wear More formal alternatives to the sport-focused straps, available for selected case sizes. Herms straps Luxury and fashion Premium woven, rubber and metal designs made in collaboration with Herms. For most people, the Sport Loop is the best all-round choice because it is light, breathable and easy to adjust. Its softness also makes it particularly comfortable for sleep tracking. For workouts and swimming, choose a Sport Band or Nike Sport Band . The perforated Nike version provides better ventilation during intense exercise. Divers and regular swimmers should consider the Ocean Band , while runners and hikers may prefer the lighter Trail Loop or more rugged Alpine Loop . For work or formal occasions, the Milanese Loop , Link Bracelet , Modern Buckle and Magnetic Link provide a smarter appearance. Apples Herms collection offers the most luxuriousand most expensiveoptions. Before buying, check that the strap supports your Apple Watch case size and wrist measurement. Solo Loop and Braided Solo Loop straps require particularly careful sizing because they cannot be adjusted with a clasp. Third-party straps can offer excellent value, but quality, fit and fastening security vary considerably. Do I need a cellular Apple Watch? Whether you need a cellular Apple Watch depends mainly on how often you plan to leave your iPhone behind. For most buyers, the answer is no: a GPS-only Apple Watch offers better value and can already do a great deal without an active connection to an iPhone. Away from your iPhone, a GPS Apple Watch can still track workouts, monitor health, record location data, use Apple Pay and play music or podcasts downloaded to the watch. When connected to a known Wi-Fi network, it can also send and receive messages, make calls and use many online services. See our guide to Everything an Apple Watch can do without an iPhone . Cellular becomes useful when you regularly leave your iPhone at home but still want calls, messages, music streaming, navigation and notifications. This makes it particularly valuable for runners, cyclists, swimmers and gym users who dont want to carry a phone. It can also provide reassurance when you are walking alone or exercising away from Wi-Fi, because the watch can contact emergency services after a fall or crash using its own mobile connection. A cellular model is also the right choice when setting up an Apple Watch for a child or older relative who doesnt have an iPhone. Apple Watch For Your Kids, previously called Family Setup, allows a family members watch to be configured from another persons iPhone. A cellular plan enables calls, messages and location sharing when the watch is away from the managing iPhone. The drawbacks are cost and redundancy. A cellular Series or SE generally costs more than its GPS equivalent, and you must also pay your network provider a monthly fee. If your iPhone is nearly always in your pocket or bag, the watch will normally use its connection instead, leaving you paying for cellular service that you rarely need. See: I switched to a cellular Apple Watch to prove I didnt need one . Our recommendation : The Ultra 4 includes cellular as standard, so there is no GPS-only version. For the Series 12 and SE 3 , choose cellular only if you expect to leave your iPhone behind regularly or need Family Setup. Otherwise, save your money and buy the GPS model. For a more detailed comparison, see The pros and cons of a cellular Apple Watch . Can you use an Apple Watch without an iPhone? Yes, but with important caveats. An Apple Watch can do a surprising amount without an iPhone nearby, but an iPhone is required for the initial setup and to manage some settings. You cannot set up an Apple Watch using a Mac, iPad or Android phone. The exception is Apple Watch For Your Kids, previously called Family Setup. This allows a parent or guardian to use their iPhone to configure a cellular Apple Watch for a child or another family member who doesnt have an iPhone of their own. Once it has been set up, an Apple Watch can perform many tasks without its paired iPhone nearby and some dont require an internet connection at all. These include: Tracking workouts and activity: Record runs, walks and other exercises, close Activity rings and collect GPS data. The results sync with the iPhone when it reconnects. Monitoring health: Measure heart rate, track sleep, log medications and use other health features supported by the particular watch. Playing downloaded media: Listen to music, podcasts and audiobooks stored on the watch using Bluetooth headphones. Using Apple Pay: Make contactless payments without an iPhone or internet connection once Apple Pay has been configured. Using offline tools: Set alarms and timers, use the stopwatch and compass, and view photos that have been synced to the watch. Other features require either Wi-Fi or a cellular connection when the iPhone isnt nearby. With an internet connection, the watch can make and receive calls, send messages, check email, stream music and podcasts, use Maps and access online apps and services. Fall Detection and Crash Detection can recognize an incident without your iPhone nearby, but contacting emergency services requires a suitable connection. Most Apple Watches need cellular coverage or Wi-Fi calling with an internet connection. Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Ultra 4 also support Emergency SOS via satellite in supported countries and regions, including the U.S. and U.K. This allows emergency texting when cellular and Wi-Fi coverage are unavailable, and can relay automatic Fall Detection or Crash Detection alerts if you are unresponsive. Satellite connectivity requires being outdoors with a clear view of the sky and horizon. An Apple Watch therefore cannot completely replace an iPhone, but it doesnt need to remain beside it throughout the day. For a complete breakdown, read all the things an Apple Watch can do without an iPhone . How we choose the best Apple Watch Macworlds Apple Watch recommendations draw on more than a decade of hands-on experience. Our writers have tested and reviewed every generation since the original Apple Watch, comparing each new model with both its current rivals and previous generations before deciding whether it deserves a recommendation. Our assessment focuses on the factors that make a meaningful difference in everyday use: Real-world testing: We assess comfort, build quality, display visibility, performance, battery life, charging, health sensors, fitness tracking and software features. We also consider how well the watch performs during everyday activities, workouts and sleep trackingnot simply how its specifications compare on paper. Value and upgrade potential: A newer or more expensive Apple Watch is not automatically the best choice. We consider whether its improvements justify the price, whether owners of recent models would benefit from upgrading and whether a discounted previous-generation watch offers better value. Honest recommendations: We clearly identify compromises such as limited battery life, missing health sensors, a bulky design or features that most people are unlikely to use. We dont recommend a product simply because it has the most impressive specifications. Advice for different buyers: There is no single Apple Watch that suits everyone. We recommend the Series 12 for most buyers, the SE 3 for those seeking the best value, and the Ultra 4 for endurance athletes and outdoor adventurers who need its longer battery life, rugged construction and specialist capabilities. Our final recommendations therefore combine extensive testing, expert judgment, price analysis and practical buying advice. The aim is not merely to identify the Apple Watch with the longest feature list, but to help you find the model that provides the right balance of features, comfort and value for the way you will actually use it. FAQ 1. Is now a good time to buy an Apple Watch Now is a good time to buy an Apple Watch because the brand-new Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 went on sale on September 18, 2026. However, our recommendation is to wait for Black Friday sales towards the end of November for the best deals. See: Should I buy an Apple Watch now or wait? 2. What is the difference between the Series 12 and SE 3? The Apple Watch Series 12 offers a brighter, tougher display, premium aluminum, titanium and ceramic cases, and the newer S11 chip. It also includes advanced health features such as ECG, Blood Oxygen monitoring, high-frequency heart-rate sensing and the Readiness app, plus exclusive Audio Intelligence features. Battery life is rated at 24 hours. The $249/219 SE 3 uses the S10 chip, lasts 18 hours and provides essential fitness, sleep and safety features, but lacks the Series 12s advanced sensors and premium materials. 3. Can you swim while wearing an Apple Watch? Yes, you can swim while wearing an Apple Watch, but the level of water resistance varies significantly depending on the model. The Apple Watch Ultra models are the most water-capable in the lineup. They are water-resistant to 100 meters and are suitable for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving (up to 40 meters), and high-speed water sports. The Ultra models also include a depth gauge (up to 40 meters) and a water temperature sensor, making them a genuine companion for divers and endurance swimmers. Apple Watch Series 12, Series 11 and Series 10 are water-resistant to 50 meters and suitable for shallow-water activities such as swimming. They also support snorkeling to 6 meters, but should not be used for scuba diving, waterskiing or other high-velocity water sports. Water resistance can diminish over time. The Apple Watch SE 3 is also water-resistant to 50 meters and is considered swimproof. Follow these steps to enable Water Lock: Before swimming, press the side button to open Control Center. Tap the water-drop icon to enable Water Lock. After swimming press and hold the Digital Crown to unlock the screen and eject water from the speaker. 4. Should I buy an old Apple Watch model? Buying an older Apple Watch can be a great way to save money, but in late 2026, you need to be much more careful than in previous years. The biggest factor is software support, as watchOS 27 dropped support for several relatively recent models. Apple made a significant change with watchOS 27. The update drops support for the Apple Watch SE 2, Series 6, Series 7, Series 8 and the original Apple Watch Ultra. If you want a watch that will continue to receive the latest features and security updates, you must buy a model with at least an S9 chip. This means the oldest supported models are now the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2, both from 2023. If you are shopping for an older Apple Watch our recommendation is to buy refurbished watches from Apple. Read Should I buy a refurbished Apple Watch? for guidance. Another good option is to look for previous-generation Apple Watch models in major sales events, such as Black Friday. Take a look at the best prices right now in the boxes below. Apple Watch Series 11 Price When Reviewed: From $399 Best Prices Today: $379 at Walmart | $479.95 at Best Buy US Apple Watch Series 10 (42mm) Read our review Price When Reviewed: $399 Best Prices Today: $255.16 at Walmart | $329 at Best Buy | $399 at Adorama Apple Watch Ultra 3 Read our review Price When Reviewed: $799 Best Prices Today: $649 at Best Buy US Apple Watch Ultra 2 Read our review Price When Reviewed: $799 (base) Best Prices Today: $471.49 at Walmart | $599.97 at Best Buy US | $761.11 at Amazon

Gujarat Police return flat, land documents, gold and over Rs 37 lakh to fraud victims

Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Nov 4 (IANS) A flat worth Rs 26 lakh, cash and cheques worth more than Rs 37 lakh, documents relating to seven vighas of agricultural land and two properties, and gold and silver ornaments were returned to victims of fraud, cheating and illegal moneylending by Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi under the police's Tera Tujhko Arpan programme in Gandhinagar on Wednesday. The recovered assets and valuables were handed over to their original owners following police intervention in six cases reported in Anand district. The beneficiaries included widows, people cheated on the pretext of business and religious rituals, and borrowers allegedly harassed by moneylenders. In one case, Vijaybhai Bharda, originally from Morbi and currently residing in Bedwa village of Anand, was allegedly cheated of Rs 26 lakh by Kalpeshbhai Jani on the pretext of an import-export business. Jani allegedly used the money to purchase a flat in Vidhyanagar before absconding. A team led by J N Parmar, Police Inspector of the Parole-Furlough Squad, traced the accused and facilitated the return of the flat, valued at Rs 26 lakh, to Bharda. In another case, police recovered Rs four lakh in cash and two cheques of Rs three lakh each from Shravan Amaraji Patel of Gopal Chowkdi. The money had been borrowed from Parulben Pandya, a widow residing in Vidhyanagar whose late husband had served as a police inspector. The amount had not been returned. Police also intervened in a case involving Geetaben Pandav of Jitodiya, who was allegedly misled on the pretext of performing Narayanbali rituals and remedies for Pitrudosh. Atishbhai Trivedi and his family members had taken gold and silver ornaments weighing around 56 tolas. Following police counselling, eight tolas of gold and 400 grams of silver were returned. An undertaking was also obtained before a notary for the return of the remaining ornaments. In Tarapur, police intervened after Dhavalkumar Patel, allegedly distressed by harassment and coercive recovery tactics employed by moneylender Sanjaybhai Bharwad, was on his way to the Moti Canal to die by suicide. Police counselled him and secured the return of the original mortgage agreement for seven vighas of agricultural land, a cheque for Rs two lakh and seven signed blank cheques. Separately, Tarapur Police registered a case against Mohammad Sohel Vohra for allegedly demanding exorbitant interest, invoking provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Gujarat Money-Lenders Act. In another case, police recovered the original documents of a house from Navinbhai Bharwad, the mortgage deed of a hotel from Prakashbhai Patel, and nine cheques collectively worth Rs 28.50 lakh from different parties. The recovery followed a representation by Rakeshbhai Patel of Tarapur to the Home Department regarding properties mortgaged against loans carrying allegedly excessive interest. Police also recovered Rs 1.5 lakh in cash from Hiteshbhai Patel after Parulben Patel, a widow residing in Shivshakti Society in Tarapur, approached the Home Department and the District Superintendent of Police over the non-repayment of money lent by her late husband to Hiteshbhai Patel and Manishbhai Chauhan. An appropriate settlement was also secured regarding the remaining amount. Addressing the programme, Sanghavi said: The Gujarat Police remained committed to protecting the lives and property of ordinary citizens. He appreciated the work undertaken by Anand district police. The beneficiaries thanked the state government and Anand Police for helping them recover their property and valuables.

Diwali Takeover: How Indian Influence Is Shifting Global Luxury's Power Balance

India's Diwali no longer needs an introduction. It is becoming a global moment for luxury, culture and influence - just like Christmas, Lunar New Year or Ramadan. From Harrods in London to Bvlgari in Jaipur and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, Indian culture is commanding space in some of the world's most iconic luxury institutions. India's growing wealth is drawing global luxury brands towards its consumers and festive traditions. But this story goes beyond money and retail. Indian craftsmanship, designers, celebrities and cultural identity are increasingly shaping how global luxury presents itself. As Diwali enters the global luxury conversation, is Indian influence shifting the balance of cultural power? On Beyond Borders, Ananya Dasgupta explores the Diwali takeover - and what it reveals about India's rising global stature.

ACB nabs Bazarhathnoor SI for demanding 40,000 bribe in suicide case

Officer allegedly threatened to implicate complainant in case over womans death in exchange for not naming him and returning his mobile phone

ACB nabs Bazarhathnoor SI for demanding 40,000 bribe in suicide case

Officer allegedly threatened to implicate complainant in case over womans death in exchange for not naming him and returning his mobile phone

We steal people's hearts, not votes; Rahul should spend time at BJP office to understand this: Assam CM

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday launched a sharp attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of spending more time abroad than in India and taking a dig at his electoral record, saying that while cricketer Sachin Tendulkar scored centuries in cricket, Gandhi had scored a century in losing elections. Speaking about the BJP's political approach and its decisions, including the introduction of Agniveer, the construction of the Ram Mandir and the abrogation of Article 370, Sarma said the party wins people's support through its decisions. He said, We steal people's hearts, not votes. The decision to introduce Agniveer, the construction of the Ram Mandir and the abrogation of Article 370. All these decisions won people's hearts. Rahul Gandhi should spend a month at the BJP office to understand how the party wins people's hearts. But he does not even have the time for that. He is always travelling

Ranji Trophy: Karnataka, Vidarbha Register Dominant Wins; Delhi, Odisha Trail Behind At Stumps On Day 3

Abhimanyu Cricket Academy Ground: Karnataka, Vidarbha and Goa registered commanding victories by an innings, while Uttarakhand opened their account with a comprehensive 10-wicket win as the third day of the ongoing third round of the Ranji Trophy 2026 concluded on Wednesday. Karnataka produced a clinical all-round performance to defeat Assam by an innings and 314 runs in their Elite Group B encounter in Guwahati, wrapping up the contest with more than a day to spare. The eight-time champions collected seven points, including a bonus point, to move to the top of the group standings with 16 points. Resuming their first innings at 496/5, Karnataka continued their dominance as they declared at 577/6, establishing a massive lead of 442 runs. Assams batting lineup had little answer to Karnatakas spin attack, with Shreyas Gopal claiming four wickets for 39 runs and Shikhar Shetty returning figures of 3/28 to bowl the hosts out for 128 in 40.2 overs. Earlier, Manvanth Kumars unbeaten century had provided the foundation for Karnatakas imposing first-innings total. Uttarakhand also registered their first victory of the season, defeating Haryana by 10 wickets in their Elite Group D clash at the Abhimanyu Cricket Academy Ground in Dehradun. After posting 305 in their first innings, Uttarakhand bowled Haryana out for 153, with Mayank Mishra picking up six wickets for 57 runs. Haryanas Nishant Sindhu had earlier claimed 5/89 for the visitors. Forced to follow on, Haryana managed 159 in their second innings, with Jagadeesha Suchith taking four wickets for 50 runs. The hosts were left with a target of just nine runs, which they chased down in 1.2 overs without losing a wicket. Dega Nischals 153 off 387 deliveries was the standout contribution in Uttarakhands first innings. Vidarbha completed an innings-and-20-run victory over Madhya Pradesh after producing a dominant bowling performance across both innings. Having dismissed Madhya Pradesh for 209 in their first innings, Vidarbha posted 334/9 before declaring their innings. The visitors struggled once again in their second innings and were dismissed for just 105. Harsh Dubey was the standout performer, taking nine wickets in the first innings, while Dubey and Parth Rekhade claimed five wickets apiece in the second to seal the victory. Goa joined the list of teams registering innings victories after defeating Bihar by an innings and 177 runs. Goa built their commanding position with a first-innings total of 397 before bowling Bihar out for 107. Following on, Bihar failed to put up a stronger fight and were dismissed for 113 in their second innings, handing Goa a comprehensive victory. Meanwhile, Mumbai strengthened their position against Railways, with a 141-run opening partnership between Angkrish Raghuvanshi and Divyaansh Saxena taking their second-innings lead beyond 300 runs. Raghuvanshi scored 79 before falling, while Tushar Deshpande, Suryansh Shedge and Musheer Khan also departed cheaply as Mumbai lost a cluster of wickets during the final half-hour of play. Off-spinner Tanush Kotian had earlier delivered an impressive performance with figures of 7/45 for Mumbai, leaving Railways with a difficult task on the final day. In the encounter between Delhi and Services, the latter held a 202-run lead at the close of play on Day 3. Delhi made an encouraging start with the ball, picking up two wickets in the first five overs, but Mohit Ahlawats impressive 142-run knock helped Services recover and strengthen their position. With only one day remaining, the contest appears to be heading towards a draw, with Delhi facing an uphill task to force a result. Bengal and Maharashtra also witnessed an eventful day, with Mohammed Shamis four-wicket haul helping Bengal dismiss Maharashtra for 218. Bengal, however, lost four wickets in their second innings and reached 76/4 at stumps, holding a slender one-run lead. Play was curtailed due to bad light. In the Gujarat-Kerala fixture, Gujarat enforced the follow-on after dismissing Kerala for 279 in their first innings. Kerala ended the day at 31/1 in their second innings, still facing a considerable deficit. Odisha remained in a difficult position against Jharkhand after the latter declared their first innings at 433/8. Having recovered from an early collapse, Jharkhand built a substantial total and left Odisha with a deficit of 410 runs. Odisha reached 23/0 at stumps and will need a significant effort on the final day to avoid defeat. Hyderabad also face a challenging task against Chhattisgarh, needing another 246 runs to win after being set a target of 259. Hyderabad were 13/2 at stumps, having lost both their opening batters for ducks in the first over. Punjab continued to hold the upper hand against Andhra, who reached 240/2 at the end of the day while chasing Punjabs first-innings total of 529/9 declared. Andhra still trail by 352 runs, with Shaik Rasheed and Karan Shinde leading their efforts to reduce the deficit. Hyderabad also face a challenging task against Chhattisgarh, needing another 246 runs to win after being set a target of 259. Hyderabad were 13/2 at stumps, having lost both their opening batters for ducks in the first over. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Ayushmann Khurrana Receives Extortion Threat As Bollywood Tightens Security

Mumbai: Actor Ayushmann Khurrana has reportedly received an extortion call from a person claiming to be associated with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, demanding crores of rupees. Police are currently matching the callers voice with their existing records. Actor Tusshar Kapoor also recently received a similar threatening audio message from a caller identifying himself as Harry []

Adilabad SI Caught In ACB Bribe Trap

A Sub-Inspector of Police in Telangana's Adilabad district was apprehended by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Wednesday for allegedly demanding a bribe of Rs 40,000. The officer sought the money to avoid implicating a complainant in a case related to a woman's suicide and to return his mobile phone.

IFL 2026/27: Samaleswari SC set for historic home debut against Dempo SC

Digital Desk | Rourkela, Nov 4 (IANS) Samaleswari SC will make their home debut as they face Goan heavyweights Dempo SC in the Indian Football League (IFL) 2026/27 season at the Birsa Munda Athletics Stadium in Rourkela on Thursday. Playing their debut campaign, Samaleswari SC showed a good account of themselves in their first-ever match, going down 2-3 narrowly to former I-League champions Gokulam Kerala FC in Kozhikode after conceding in the seventh minute of injury time. Argentine forward Pereyra Diaz emerged as the standout performer against Gokulam Kerala, constantly testing the opposing goalkeeper with sharp efforts before converting his late penalty, while winger Sahil Harijan provided a persistent spark with his driving runs and chance creation down the left flank. Head coach Abdul Azim Siddique, with a squad featuring 14 players with Indian national team experience across levels alongside a strong local contingent, highlighted how hosting IFL matches in Rourkela will provide a vital platform for organic talent in the state. I am very happy that the IFL is here in Rourkela because the organic talent developed in Odisha previously did not have a platform and had to go to Kolkata or other states to play, Samaleswari SC head coach Abdul Azim Siddique said. Under the vision of our chairperson Jayanarayan Mishra to develop Odisha football, we have 10 players from Odisha in our squad, including five graduates from the Maa Samaleswari Sports Academy in Sambalpur, alongside local talents like Vicky Oram, Roshan Panna, Samir Murmu, and Sahil Harijan, he said. Speaking on the balance of his roster and the significance of playing 10 home matches in the state, Siddique added, Because the competition at the national level is very high, we have also brought in five foreign players; two of whom have represented their countries and 14 players who have represented India at the national level. Playing home-and-away matches across the country is the best way to develop football. There is a big difference between watching on television and watching in the stadium, and this platform will inspire the next generation of local players to reach the Indian national team, he added. Samaleswari SC midfielder and former India U-17 FIFA World Cup captain Kiyam Amarjit Singh echoed his coach's call for the local fans to back the team on their home bow. Having the IFL take place for the first time in Rourkela and Sambalpur is a great platform for football in the region, Kiyam Amarjit Singh said. When fans come to the stadium to support us and see local Odia players competing alongside foreign signings from countries like Argentina and Ghana, it builds a strong sporting culture. We are grateful for the support on our opening home matchday and hope the fans turn out in numbers to back the team. Dempo SC travelled to Odisha with a dramatic victory in their first match of the season. The Golden Eagles secured a 1-0 win over debutants FC Bengaluru United in Fatorda, courtesy of an eighth-minute stoppage-time header from Ghanaian defender Uzziel Yaw Asomaning Budu. Despite dominating possession for large spells, Dempo had to wait until the final moments to break down a resolute Bengaluru defence, a testament to their persistence. Budu proved to be the decisive figure, not only anchoring the defence but rising highest to head home the stoppage-time winner, while Bagkar provided a constant creative spark with his probing runs down the left flank and goalkeeper Bhattacharjee made a crucial second-half intervention to secure the clean sheet. Guided by head coach Samir Naik, the Goan outfit is looking to become more clinical in front of goal while showing full respect to a resilient Samaleswari side. Overall, the entire team played well in our opening game; we had good ball possession, created several chances, and stayed organised defensively to get the three points, Dempo SC head coach Samir Naik said. We know we can do better in converting our opportunities. Some of the new players take a little time to adjust, but I strongly believe we have players who can change the game on their own, and I have full trust that we will improve with every match. Assessing the challenge posed by Samaleswari SC and the travel to Rourkela, Naik added, All teams in this league are equal, and there are no favourites. Samaleswari were 2-0 down in their first match, fought back to 2-2, and only lost in injury time, and they have good players who have proven themselves at the ISL level. It was a long journey for us to get here, though the playing conditions are quite similar to Goa, and as professionals we are ready. Aside from Amay Morajkar, who trained individually today and will be assessed tomorrow, the squad is fit, he added. Dempo SC defender Pruthvesh Pednekar reiterated the positive mood in the dressing room ahead of their first away test. Everyone is working hard in training, and the mood in the camp is very positive after getting the three points in our first game, Pruthvesh Pednekar said. In the opener, we controlled possession well and kept pushing until the final minute to get our reward. We are fully focused on executing the coach's plan tomorrow and fighting to bring home all three points. Statistically, the match brings together two sides that were involved in stoppage-time drama on the opening weekendSamaleswari conceding a 90+7th-minute winner after scoring twice in the final 15 minutes (75' and 90'), and Dempo netting the latest goal of Matchday 1 in the 98th minute (90+8'). Dempo also demonstrated strong control on the ball in their opener, commanding 70 per cent possession and stringing together nearly 250 passes in the first half alone, whereas Samaleswari proved dangerous in the second half after the hour mark, generating a flurry of shots on target to erase a two-goal deficit. With Samaleswari SC eager to mark their historic Odisha home bow with their first points of the campaign, and Dempo SC looking to build on their dramatic opening-day victory, Thursday's clash in Rourkela promises a compelling contest.

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CPI(M) condemns govts move to make biometrics, voter ID compulsory for welfare

New Delhi, Nov 4: The Communist Party of India (Marxist) unequivocally condemned the Union governments announcement, made by Minister of Panchayat Raj, Rajiv Ranjan Singh, to replace Aadhaar with biometrics and voter ID (EPIC) as the basis for welfare payments. The party termed the move further assault on the rural poor. It has been repeatedly exposed how biometric authentication denies access to agricultural workers in rural employment schemes. Many elderly women workers have been denied benefits because the machines failed to capture their iris (eyes). Manual labourers are also being excluded because their worn-out thumbprints cannot be matched by the biometric system. E-KYC requires smartphones that most rural households do not own, party in a statement said. It said the government assured the Supreme Court earlier that Aadhaar would not be compulsory, only to surreptitiously impose it across welfare schemes. Now, having touted Aadhaar as foolproof, the government itself is discarding it. This must be seen alongside the exclusionary Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, which is a surgical strike on voting rights and a systematic exercise in mass disenfranchisement. It is estimated that more than 13.4 crore voters have been excluded, with marginalised communities, Muslims, women, and the economically vulnerable disproportionately impacted. Now, demanding Voter ID for welfare will make these schemes even more exclusive. Already, certain state governments are denying ration and other benefits on the pretext that names have been deleted through SIR, a clear violation of the Supreme Court's ruling that electoral roll exclusion cannot affect social welfare entitlements. All these designs point to a concerted effort to deny benefits to a vast majority of the people. The CPI(M) demanded the immediate withdrawal of this exclusionary decision and insists that welfare entitlements be delivered universally, without conditioning them on technology or documents that the rural poor cannot access.