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Global sexual health: Why communal knowledge about pleasure and well-being matters
For decades, discussions and decisions about access to contraception, abortion, maternal health care, HIV prevention and treatment, comprehensive sexuality education, gender equity and protection from sexual violence have largely flowed in one direction: from the Global North to the Global South.
Climate change is killing the plants of Ulur
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Chris Murphy is considered a contender for more senior leadership positions in the Senate and among the many Democrats seen as potential 2028 candidates for the White House.
From Fleetwood embarrassment to 'magical' Anfield win 14 years in making
Arsenal bounce back from the low of defeat at League Two Fleetwood to secure their first win in 14 years at Anfield - and open up a three-point lead at the top of the Premier League.
Iran's IRGC Navy says two tankers 'exploded' after hitting mines in Hormuz
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy said two oil tankers exploded after striking mines while traveling through an unauthorized route in the Strait of Hormuz, Iranian state media reported on Sunday. Iran has imposed restrictions on vessels seeking to pass t
71st Foundation Day: MP to celebrate 2027 as 'Year of the Youth', says CM Mohan Yadav
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Nov 2 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has said that Madhya Pradesh leads all other states in industry, employment, agriculture, milk production, tourism and heritage preservation, and these achievements will expand further in the future. The Chief Minister on Sunday announced that in the first month of the 'Year of the Youth', Bhopal will host the Army Day events on coming January 15, in presence of Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. He said the celebrations commenced at the Shaurya Smarak and would further strengthen the spirit of patriotism. The three-day celebrations marking the 71st Foundation Day of Madhya Pradesh at Lal Parade Ground began here on Sunday. Chief Minister Yadav inaugurated the state-level festival by lighting a ceremonial lamp. He extended the Foundation Day greetings to all residents of the state and welcomed the participating artists. Chief Minister Yadav remarked that the cultural consciousness of Madhya Pradesh is vast and the people of the state are truly fortunate. The formation of the state was not the result of a single individual's vision but the outcome of its industrious culture and people rooted in strong values. Highlighting recent initiatives, the Chief Minister said the 'Year of Industry' in 2025 provided significant employment opportunities to the youth, while 2026, designated as the 'Year of Farmer Welfare', has focused on agricultural development. Today, a subsidy of Rs 490 crore was disbursed to micro, small and medium enterprises. Investments worth Rs 12 lakh crore have been realised on the ground in the state. The agricultural growth rate exceeds 24 per cent. A decision has been taken to provide four times the land value as compensation when land is acquired from farmers. Irrigation is expanding continuously and milk production is being ramped up, with the state poised to rise from its current third position to the top spot in the country. Chief Minister Yadav noted that significant steps have been taken over the past two years and nine months for the holistic development of the state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has gifted several major projects to Madhya Pradesh, including the PM MITRA Park in Dhar, the expansion of the Bina Refinery, the Ken-Betwa and Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal river-linking projects, and the Mohasa-Babai Renewable Energy and Power Equipment Manufacturing Zone. A spectacular fireworks display marked the commencement of the Rajyotsav. He presented awards to winners of the Kisan Kalyan Swabhiman Parv quiz and the Bhagwan Shri Krishna Medhavi scholarship. A major highlight of the evening was a musical performance by renowned playback singer Monali Thakur, who captivated the audience with popular songs.
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BJP counters INDIA bloc's rally with 'save democracy, end anarchy' march
BJP organized a series of rallies nationwide to counter the opposition's recent event in Delhi. Party leaders accused Congress of choosing an inappropriate date for their rally, which coincided with a significant tragedy. BJP's Sambit Patra criticized the actual turnout at the Congress rally, citing empty seats and vacant spaces. Union ministers and party officials led marches in various states as a show of strength.
One nation, many opportunities: Why India's many elections may be keeping protests peaceful
People across India are protesting peacefully, contrasting with violent agitations seen in other countries. The 'one nation, multiple elections' framework allows diverse political benefits to be shared among parties. This electoral model keeps governments accountable and responsive to public needs. Elections help to channel frustrations and enable citizens to express their concerns. As a result, the political landscape remains dynamic and participatory, fostering a sense of empowerment.
New restrictions kick in as Delhi battles pollution
Authorities in New Delhi stepped up anti-pollution measures on Sunday, including higher parking fees and work-from-home orders, seeking to curb toxic smog in one of the world
KU's SACMS, Sahitya Akademi holds An Evening with a Critic featuring Iqbal Nazki
Srinagar Nov 1:The Shaikh-ul-Aalam Centre for Multidisciplinary Studies (SACMS), University of Kashmir (KU), in collaboration with Sahitya Akademi, organised a literary programme titled 'An Evening with a Critic at the Main Campus, featuring eminent Kashmiri literary critic Iqbal Nazki. The programme provided a platform to discuss the role of literary criticism in interpreting texts and understanding the wider cultural and social contexts of Kashmiri literature. Sharing reflections on his literary journey, Iqbal Nazki spoke about the importance of critical inquiry in appreciating literary works and engaging with their deeper meanings. He said, Literary criticism helps us look beyond the surface of a text and understand the ideas, experiences and cultural realities it reflects. Particular emphasis was placed on the richness of Kashmiri literary traditions and the need to nurture a vibrant culture of literary criticism and scholarly dialogue. Prof. Aadil Amin Kak, Chairman, SACMS, said that such literary interactions create opportunities for sustained engagement with critical thought and encourage students and scholars to approach literature from diverse perspectives. The session was presided over by Prof. Mohd. Zaman Azurdah, while Prof. Shad Ramzan delivered the welcome address and highlighted the importance of literary criticism in enriching the understanding of Kashmiri literature and its literary traditions. Dr. Satish Vimal, Professor of Practice at SACMS; Prof. Noor Ahmad Baba; Dr. Maroof Shah; Mohammad Amin Bhat; and Shakeel ur Rehman were among the participants who contributed to the discussion. The programme was attended by faculty members, students and scholars. The interactive session provided an opportunity for meaningful exchange among the distinguished participants and the audience.
Tom Holland And Zendaya Buy GBP 9 Million Home in London's Wimbledon With Private Tennis Court
Idaho Supreme Court revives condo owners' challenge to property changes approved by 88% vote
China's international criticism on Covid toughened its attitude, says Foreign Secretary
Vikram Misri indicated that international condemnation impacted China's approach to the Covid-19 pandemic effectively. He noted that China perceived itself as being unfairly blamed for the outbreak. Misri explained how returning to China involved a strict 21-day quarantine during the pandemic period. The restrictions further complicated diplomatic relations, especially during the Galwan clash in 2020. China's response also affected global supply chains, creating challenges for various countries, including India.
What Seifert regrets most about India's T20I series win
New Zealand opener Tim Seifert discussed his team's performance in the T20I series against India, acknowledging that learning from past mistakes led to their win in the final match. However, he lamented that these crucial lessons came too late to secure the series victory, which India had already wrapped up. Seifert also praised the bowlers' efforts in the final game.
Crypto cards enter RBI's radar as Indians use offshore wallets for everyday payments
Offshore crypto cards that allow Indian residents to spend digital assets on domestic purchases and withdraw cash have come under the scrutiny of the RBI and Financial Intelligence Unit. Several users have reported card deactivations in recent days, while authorities are understood to be examining potential violations of payment regulations and FEMA.
Microsoft techie shares reality of his job in viral video: 0% lifestyle, 100%...'
Employees from big organisations usually flaunt their perks in viral videos. However, one video that has gone viral shows a Microsoft employee at his desk, working.
KING's First Song Releases On SRK's Birthday: Giant Poster, Message Light Up Mannat
Shah Rukh Khan's KING officially kicked off its promotional campaign as the film's first song was released at midnight, following a spectacular display of teaser posters outside Mannat. During the launch, three KING posters were showcased on giant screens outside Shah Rukh Khan's iconic residence, transforming Mannat into the centre of the film's latest promotional event. The poster showcase built anticipation throughout the night before the makers finally unveiled the film's first track, marking the beginning of what is expected to be one of Bollywood's biggest campaigns.
Warmer seas and shifting pressure systems: The signs that suggest the Mediterranean
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Bulgaria's acting President Iotova takes lead in presidential runoff vote, exit polls show
Exit polls showed Bulgaria's acting President Iliana Iotova led a low-turnout runoff vote for the largely ceremonial role on Sunday,
State Flag, Mandatory Tamil: Vijay's Minister Sparks Controversy With Fresh Remark
Many states have flag for their state. Tamil Nadu doesn't have flag. A state flag for Tamil Nadu will be introduced, he said.
Texas court reopens insurance dispute after landslide destroys two homeowners' backyards
Shah Rukh Khan Thanks Google Gemini After Seeing King Tribute On Mumbai's Sea Link
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Baramulla's Gawalta residents aghast as newly macadamised road crumbles
Baramulla, Nov 1:Residents of Gawalta village in Uri area of north Kashmir's Baramulla district have expressed resentment over the alleged poor quality of recently completed macadamisation work, saying the road surface has started coming apart within days of its completion. Locals said the granular material used in the blacktopping was coming loose and scattering underfoot, raising concerns about the quality of construction and the supervision of the project. This is a complete injustice to the people living in the border areas of Uri, said Jamal-ud-Din, a resident of Gawalta. He said villagers had waited for years for the road to be macadamised, expecting the work to ease their difficulties. After waiting for so long, we expected the road to provide some relief. However, the poor quality of work has left the entire population disappointed. The surface has started coming apart just days after the macadamisation, he said. Another resident, Muhammad Ismail, said the work had been executed under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY). He alleged that inadequate supervision and monitoring during the execution of the project had compromised the quality of the work. Residents said the condition of the road had raised questions about the material used and the mechanism for ensuring quality standards in public infrastructure projects. They said people in border villages already faced prolonged hardships because of poor road connectivity and should not have to bear the consequences of substandard construction. The villagers urged the district administration and the concerned department to conduct an on-site inspection, assess the quality of the macadamisation and fix responsibility if any irregularities were established. They also sought accountability from the contractor and officials responsible for supervising the project, saying public money should not be spent on infrastructure that begins deteriorating almost immediately after completion. The residents demanded that the road be repaired in accordance with prescribed standards, saying timely intervention was necessary to prevent further deterioration and ensure lasting relief for the village.
When SS Rajamouli revealed that Prabhas is to 'too lazy to get married
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Nov 1 (IANS) While the admirers of Prabhas have been waiting with bated breath to see their beloved actor tie the knot, he chooses to maintain his single status even at 46. However, as Prabhas appeared on 'Koffee With Karan' with the 'Baahubali' team - director SS Rajamouli and co-star Rana Daggubati, the filmmaker revealed the real reason why Prabhas is not married till now. The 'RRR' maker shared that Prabhas was too lazy to get married. He said that the 'Sahoo' actor is a very shy and introverted person and approaching someone for marriage might be too much work for him. It would be too much work for him to find a girl and talk to her parents. Thats why he isnt getting married, SS Rajamouli said. During the episode, SS Rajamouli had even predicted that Rana Daggubati would get married before Prabhas, which eventually came true. Rana Daggubati married Miheeka Bajaj, a Hyderabad-based entrepreneur and event designer, on August 8, 2020, in a traditional ceremony. During the fun episode, host and filmmaker Karan Johar also asked Rana Daggubati if he had to set up Prabhas with any actress from the Hindi film industry; who would that be? Answering the question, the actor quickly took Katrina Kaif's name. Karan Johar then asked Prabhas if he approved of his co-star's choice. However, Prabhas dodged the question, saying that it is not his question to answer. Meanwhile, Prabhas has often been romantically linked with his 'Baahubali' co-star Anushka Shetty. However, over the years, both of them have maintained that they are 'just good friends'. Speaking about the 'Baahubali' series, the first instalment, 'Baahubali: The Beginning', was released in theatres on 10 July 2015. The primary cast of the project included Prabhas as Amarendra Baahubali, and Mahendra (Shivudu) Baahubali, Rana Daggubati as Bhallaladeva, Anushka Shetty as Devasena, Tamannaah Bhatia as Avanthika, Ramya Krishnan as Sivagami, and Sathyaraj as Kattappa, along with others. This was followed by the sequel, 'Baahubali 2: The Conclusion' in 2017.
Assam CM lauds Sunidhi Chauhan's Guwahati concert, says city's live music scene 'just heating up'
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 1 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday praised singer Sunidhi Chauhan's performance at a concert in Guwahati, highlighting the enthusiastic audience response and smooth crowd management during the event. In a post on social media platform X, CM Sarma described Chauhan's performance at G-Town on Saturday as scintillating and congratulated the organisers and others involved for ensuring a smooth flow of the crowd. The Chief Minister also highlighted the growing concert culture in Guwahati, indicating that several prominent Indian and international musical acts are scheduled to perform in the city in the coming days. Missed it? We have several more, CM Sarma said, listing popular singers Shreya Ghoshal, Mohit Chauhan and Sonu Nigam among the upcoming performers. He also mentioned internationally renowned rock band Guns N' Roses and British virtual band Gorillaz as part of the announced musical attractions. The concert scene here is just heating up, the Chief Minister said, signalling the state government's focus on positioning Guwahati as an emerging destination for major live entertainment events. The social media post also featured visuals from the concert, highlighting the enthusiastic participation of the audience. An accompanying message noted that the crowd had transformed into a virtual chorus, with spectators in Guwahati singing along to more than half of the songs performed on stage. The successful conduct of the event and the enthusiastic response from music lovers reflect the growing appetite for large-scale live entertainment in Assam's capital city. Guwahati has increasingly been attracting major cultural and entertainment events, with performances by established Indian singers and international artistes expected to add momentum to the city's concert calendar. The Chief Minister's remarks also underline the potential of live entertainment to strengthen Assam's cultural and tourism profile while attracting visitors from neighbouring states and other parts of the country. The upcoming concerts featuring prominent performers are expected to further boost Guwahati's position on India's live entertainment map.
East Bengal Make History With Stunning Win In AFC Women's Champions League
Fazila Ikwaput scored twice as East Bengal FC began their AFC Women's Champions League campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Vietnam's Ho Chi Minh City Women's FC in a Group B contest on Sunday.
Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana Crosses Rs 36 Crore in Advance Bookings Ahead Of November 5 Release
Several missing, rescue ops on after landslide hits village in Odisha's Ganjam
Digital Desk | Bhubaneswar, Nov 1 (IANS) Rescue operations are underway as 11 persons are still missing following massive landslide in Gidipabali village of Odisha's Ganjam district on October 28 due to the effect of expectational rainfall triggered by Cyclone Arnab. Speaking to the media persons on Sunday, Odisha's Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said that those who survived the landslide three days ago and fled on foot through the forest, walking throughout the night to reach the relief centre, told the administration that the settlement has a population of 25. Of them, only 13 managed to reach the relief centre. So, naturally, 12 people remain missing. Whether they moved towards Kandhamal, crossed streams and drainage channels through the forest towards Ganjam, or went in some other direction is being investigated, the Minister added. Pujari said that personnel from the Special Operations Group (SOG), the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) have also been deployed in the area under the supervision of the Collector and the Sub-Collector. The Minister added that the body of one person has so far been recovered from under the debris during the rescue operations. Meanwhile, the Indian Railways also mobilises specialised manpower and heavy equipment to assist Odisha government in clearing debris following massive landslide in Bhanjanagar on the Ganjam-Kandhamal border. An advanced 'Seismic Life Detection Unit' is also deployed directly in the rescue operation to make the efforts more effective. This state-of-the-art technology, used by the Indian Navy, is equipped with specialised sensors and scanning capabilities that can detect signs of life beneath soil, mud or debris. As per the official information, work is progressing on a war footing to normalise public life in the affected districts. The Ganjam and Kandhamal districts have been affected the most by the cyclone and subsequent floods. A total population of 1,18,730 has been impacted by this disaster. While three deaths were reported in Kandhamal district, the administration acted swiftly to evacuate 75,855 people to safe locations. As many as 396 relief camps have been opened for the evacuated people to provide necessary assistance. Additionally, 807 pregnant women were shifted to safe places, and 399 of them have given birth. Crop area spanning 75,388 hectares has been affected, along with damage to 1,672 houses. The state administration has also kept a close watch on the fresh cyclonic storm approaching the Andhra Pradesh Coast.
Delhi Police searches Bihar Congress office over AI video featuring PM Modi's late mother
Delhi Police's Special Cell searched the Bihar Congress office on Sunday as part of an investigation into an allegedly objectionable AI-generated video featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi's late mother. The team reached the Congress office...
You Can See Everything, 'Clayface' lead sleepy Halloween weekend
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Tributes to 'inspirational' Olympian Ciara Mageean after death at 34
Sporting, political and media figures pay tribute to former European champion and Olympian Ciara Mageean following her death at 34.
Why some trees thrive far from home
In a study spanning 192 sites and four continents, researchers have discovered that conifers planted in the Southern Hemisphere grow up to four times faster and are more drought-resistant than those growing in their native ranges.
Nowak family tell of 'unbelievable pain' of seeing footage of dying son handcuffed
His family describe the night police told them of his death, and watching him being handcuffed.
East Bengal make history with winning start in AFC Women's Champions League
East Bengal FC secured a 2-1 victory over Ho Chi Minh City Women's FC in their AFC Women's Champions League Group B opener. Ugandan striker Fazila Ikwaput scored both goals, including a penalty, making East Bengal the first Indian club to register multiple wins in the tournament's group stage. The team defended resolutely to hold onto their lead despite a second-half goal from the Vietnamese side.
'They'll become garbage': Trump says he'll become 'Mr. Veto' if Democrats win midterms
Pakistan court's decision raises questions over interpretation of workplace harassment: Report
Digital Desk | Islamabad, Nov 1 (IANS) Pakistan's Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) has overturned the Islamabad High Court's ruling in the workplace harassment case of Nadia Sarwar, raising questions about the interpretation of workplace harassment and the protection of women's rights in a patriarchal society, a report said. The case has sparked concerns about whose experiences the law considers and whether it adequately assesses the power imbalances women face at the workplace in Pakistan. The case started in 2012 when Nadia Sarwar said that she faced workplace harassment at the National Bank of Pakistan. After proceedings before the federal ombudsperson, two officers were directed to undergo compulsory retirement. Subsequently, the President reduced the penalties of officials to censure, according to the report in Union of Catholic Asian (UCA) News. Later, the Islamabad High Court restored the original penalties. However, the Federal Constitutional Court has now overturned that verdict and restored the President's order. The case raises concerns about how harassment is interpreted and how institutional power and legal authority shape women's access to justice in Pakistan. Pakistan's FCC interpreted the pre-2022 amendment in which workplace allegations required a sexual element, according to the report. Nevertheless, the decision has renewed concerns about how harassment is defined and proved. A narrow interpretation may leave some forms of gender-based mistreatment outside the scope of workplace harassment law, even when they create a hostile or intimidating working environment, Anee Muskan said in a report in UCA News. The question is whether legal definitions and evidentiary standards adequately account for the realities of women working under the authority of colleagues or supervisors. The difficulties of reporting harassment are well documented in Pakistan, the author added. Several lawyers in Pakistan have raised concerns over the FCC's ruling in the workplace harassment case of Nadia Sarwar. Lawyer Aaminah Qadir said the FCC verdict was against a judgment given by a female Supreme Court judge who actually understands (first-hand) that implications of harassment at work may not always be overtly sexual. This goes against a Supreme Court judgment from a female judge who actually understands (first hand) that implications of harassment at work may not always be overtly sexual. Sad days as we take steps back & undermine solid judgments from the Supreme Court. Gender gap is sure to widen, Qadir said on social media platform X. Reema Omer said that the FCC's verdict on workplace harassment limits the ambit of the law to only sexual harassment and seems to increase the burden of proof on the complainant, terming the case as another example of how the FCC experiment is a complete and utter disaster. In a post on X, Omer added, The Federal Constitutional Courts judgment on workplace harassment limits the ambit of the law to only sexual harassment and appears to increase the burden of proof on the complainant. It is easily one of the most regressive judgments related to gender-based abuse in recent times and fails victims of harassment, including women. It is poorly reasoned, disconnected with how workplace harassment actually occurs, and ignores important sections of the law it is supposed to interpret. Yet another example of how the FCC experiment is a complete and utter disaster, she said.
President Murmu calls for building 'Viksit Bharat' with pride in heritage
Digital Desk | Kurukshetra, Nov 1 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu said on Sunday that for building a 'Viksit Bharat', the citizens of the country must embrace modern knowledge with pride in India's rich cultural heritage. Speaking at the Balidan Shatabdi Samaroh of Swami Shraddhanand at Gurukul Kurukshetra, in Haryana, the President noted, As we are moving towards the goal of 'Viksit Bharat', it is of utmost importance that our citizens take pride in India's rich cultural heritage while embracing modern knowledge, science, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. She said, It is the duty of every citizen to contribute to the welfare of society and the progress of the nation. Rise above your personal interests and work for the broader interests of society and the country. The President called upon the youth to draw inspiration from the life of Swami Shraddhanand and contribute in building an educated, self-reliant and developed nation. She hailed Swami Shraddhanand as he revived and strengthened the Gurukul system of education. This infused new life into the stream of Indian education and culture, she said. Earlier, the President attended the 'Hirak Jayanti' celebration on the 60th year of the formation of the state of Haryana at Kurukshetra. The President said that the land of Haryana, which spread the eternal message of Bhagwan Krishna's selfless action across the world, has also established numerous milestones of human achievement in the modern era. Today, Haryana is rapidly advancing towards achieving the objectives of its establishment. Recently, a train running on hydrogen fuel has been launched between Jind and Sonipat. This hydrogen-powered train is the country's first, she added. She expressed appreciation for sportspersons from Haryana, especially the daughters, who have made the nation proud with their remarkable achievements at international level. Out of the seven gold medals won by Haryana's athletes at the Commonwealth Games held this year, five were secured by daughters. Para athlete Sharmila Dhanda from Rewari proved by clinching a gold medal that if determination is unwavering, physical challenges cannot block the path to success for long.
Latvia's armed forces warn of airspace threat in two regions
Latvia's armed forces warned on Sunday of a threat in the airspace affecting two regions of the Baltic country, and it asked people there to stay inside for their safety.
New IAF chief's priorities: Fighter strength, Tejas, AMCA
Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, India's new Chief of Air Staff, has outlined his top priorities, focusing on restoring the IAF's fighter squadron strength, accelerating indigenous programmes like Tejas and AMCA, and enhancing tri-services synergy. His vision, encapsulated by the acronym VAYU (Vigilance, Aatmanirbharta, Yukti, Unity), emphasises self-reliance in defence, tactical innovation, and integrated operations with the Army and Navy, alongside a commitment to air warrior welfare and national security.
Bhiwandi's key APJ Abdul Kalam flyover shut for repairs, traffic snarls across Mumbai
Asian Champions Trophy: Harmanpreet's hat-trick powers India to victory over Malaysia
Digital Desk | Jalandhar, Nov 1 (IANS) Captain Harmanpreet Singh scored a hat-trick as India defeated Malaysia 4-2, registering their fourth successive win in the Asian Champions Trophy 2026 at the Olympian Surjit Singh Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar on Sunday. The Indian skipper (3', 33', 58') scored twice from penalty corners before converting a penalty stroke, while Sukhjeet Singh (43') added the fourth goal. Akhimullah Anuar (25') and Shello Silverius (60') scored for Malaysia. Harmanpreet was named Player of the Match for his match-winning show. The contest was a repeat of the Asian Games 2026 gold-medal match, where India beat Malaysia 5-1 to successfully defend their title. Both teams had won their first three matches in Jalandhar and came into Sunday's fixture unbeaten. India started quickly and won a penalty corner in the third minute, with Harmanpreet converting a variation involving Jugraj Singh to put the hosts in the lead. Malaysia responded with attacks of their own, but Aditya Arjun Lalage intercepted a dangerous pass intended for Anuar. Hardik Singh then produced a fine run past Shafiq Hassan, but Mandeep Singh and Sukhjeet could not convert the chance. Malaysia put India under pressure in the second quarter and won their first penalty corner in the 18th minute after Fitri Saari was fouled by Harmanpreet. Rajinder blocked Azimuddin Kamaruddin's first attempt, while goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak saved the following shot. India won a penalty corner in the 21st minute after Aditya was brought down, but Aminul Azhar blocked it. Harmanpreet's attempt on the re-award struck the crossbar. Malaysia then earned a series of penalty corners, with Amit Rohidas making two important blocks as the first rusher before Pathak saved the next attempt. The visitors equalised in the 25th minute when Anuar converted a penalty corner. The teams went into the break level at 1-1. India raised the tempo after the change of ends and regained the lead in the 33rd minute. Harmanpreet once again converted a penalty corner. One of the biggest turning points of the match also arrived in the same quarter when Faiz Jali received a 10-minute yellow card in the 38th minute for charging into Mandeep from behind. India, who have already qualified for the semi-finals, made the most of the numerical advantage as Sukhjeet extended the lead in the 43rd minute. He received an incisive pass from Hardik at the top of the circle and beat the goalkeeper with a backhand finish to make it 3-1. Malaysia began the final quarter with an incisive attack, but the attempt from the right went wide. A yellow card to Harmanpreet in the 48th minute gave Malaysia a numerical advantage for five minutes, but they couldn't capitalise on it. India gradually took control again and earned a penalty stroke in the 58th minute after the ball struck Marhan's foot on the goal line. Harmanpreet sent a powerful shot high to the right of the goalkeeper to complete his hat-trick. Around the same time, Malaysia were once again reduced to 10 players after Amirul Azahar received a yellow card. Nonetheless, they found a consolation goal in the dying minutes as Aiman Rozemi and Marhan combined to set up Silverius, who scored in the 60th minute, but it was too late as India took home a 4-2 win. After another inspirational performance in front of a buzzing crowd in Jalandhar and his family, Harmanpreet said India's target was to win the title at home. We are here for goldOur only target is to win at homeAll the youngsters coming in are doing well, he said. Harmanpreet leads the tournament's scoring chart with eight goals. On five-time winner India's flurry of goals in the final quarter, the Indian captain added, The energy from the crowd is infectious. Keep supporting us. Thank you, everyone. India now lead the standings with 12 points from four matches and a goal difference of +21. Malaysia remain second with nine points and a goal difference of +6. Japan are third with seven points, followed by South Korea on six. All four have qualified for the semi-finals. China on one point and Bangladesh, who are yet to open their account, are out of the title race. India will play their final league-stage match against South Korea on Monday.
'31 Is The New 21': PV Sindhu's Blockbuster Reaction After Making History At Hylo Open
Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu celebrated her second title of the season with a special message on social media after winning the Hylo Open Super 500 badminton tournament in Germany on Sunday.
Affle 3i To Acquire Israel's Perion Network For $420M In All-Cash Deal: What Will Shareholders Get?
Affle 3i will acquire all outstanding shares of Perion Network at $11.70 per share. The all-cash transaction values Perion's equity at approximately $420 million, or Rs 3,986 crore.
Rajinikanth's Jailer 2 Becomes Highest Tamil Grosser In India
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Cyclone 'Murasu' Forms Over Bay Of Bengal; Southern Odisha, Andhra Power Utilities On High Alert
The IMD has forecast that the storm will maintain its west-northwestward trajectory, gaining strength over the west-central Bay of Bengal and developing into a severe cyclonic system by the forenoon of November 2.
Pakistan's higher education in shambles, crisis looms large over its future: Report
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 1 (IANS) About two decades ago, the then Pakistan President General Pervez Musharraf initiated ground-breaking reforms in the country's higher education sector, with an objective to bring a complete turnaround in the functioning of colleges and universities and developing them as centres of excellence. Decades later, the big-ticket reforms seem to have not just derailed from its purpose but rather staring at utter failure. Despite unprecedented funding and ambitious reforms, Pakistan's higher education experiment, which once grabbed international attention, is non-starter. According to a Pakistani daily 'The Dawn', Pakistan has nearly 280 universities, millions of students and a rapidly expanding research output but they are struggling with mounting debts, poor educational outcomes and questionable scholarship, making their operations unviable and untenable. The report says that billions were poured into setting up new universities, including signing of landmark agreement with US to launch what was then considered the world's largest Fulbright scholarship programme but all that effort failed to live up to mark, decades later. Highlighting the story of universities boom to bailout, the report says that the massive university expansion is collapsing under its own weight. The issue played out in the national media, as almost all public universities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa experienced severe financial distress and also demanded about Rs 25 billion package to bail out the entire sector. The bold reforms of 2002 that were to transform Pakistan into a knowledge economy have instead mutated into a gargantuan Frankenstein's monster, which limps into its 25th year, too big to fail and too difficult to reform, the report said, which is actually an investigative series studying the myriad issues plaguing the Pakistan's education sector. The report also added that it might be surprising to learn for many that the original architects of higher education enterprise foresaw this collapse. They even spelt it out explicitly for us in the original Task Force report of 2002, the founding document of our higher education experiment, which resulted in the Higher Education Commission Ordinance and the creation of the Higher Education Commission, the report said.
'31 is the new 21': Sindhu celebrates Hylo Open success, credits Hanuman Ji
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 1 (IANS) Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu celebrated her second title of the season with a special message on social media after winning the Hylo Open Super 500 badminton tournament in Germany on Sunday, thanking the country for its support and crediting Hanuman Ji for guiding her through the highs and lows of her career. Sindhu used the German phrase Danke schn to start the tweet, which means thank you very much in English. Sindhu used it to express her gratitude after securing the title in Germany. She also made a light-hearted reference to her age, saying 31 is the new 21, as she celebrated another achievement at 31. The Indian shuttler credited Hanuman Ji for being with her through both successful and difficult phases. Danke schn, GERMANYYYYY!!!!!!!. They say 31 is the new 21. Im not going to argue. Through every high and every low, by Hanuman Jis grace. Still chasing. Always, Sindhu wrote on X. Sindhu defeated Denmarks Line Hojmark Kjrsfeldt 21-12, 21-14 in the womens singles final to win the USD 500,000 tournament in Saarbrucken. The second-seeded Indian wrapped up the contest in 39 minutes against the eighth-seeded Dane. The former world champion dominated the final with her sharp stroke-play, deceptive shots and effective net game. She made a confident start in the opening game and gradually took control of the rallies to secure it 21-12. Sindhu carried the momentum into the second game, opening up a 6-3 lead before extending her advantage to 17-11. She eventually sealed the title on her first championship point after Kjrsfeldt committed a net error. The victory marked Sindhus second title of the season after her Japan Open triumph in July. She had also finished runner-up at the French Open last week. With the Hylo Open title, Sindhu earned 9,200 ranking points, strengthening her bid to qualify for the season-ending BWF World Tour Finals.
New England Revolution host Inter Miami on November 1 in a key MLS clash. Check the match time, venue and where to watch Lionel Messi's Inter Miami live in India.
In J&K's Doda, women self-help groups get an income boost through commercial floriculture
Digital Desk | Jammu, Nov 1 (IANS) Commercial floriculture is proving to be a powerful engine for the economic independence and development of women in the rural stretches of Jammu and Kashmir. The change is evident from the empowerment of women in Doda district, where the Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have taken up the task of floriculture. The women-led SHGs are growing, harvesting, and adding value to host of ornamental crops in Sartingal village of Bhaderwah of Doda, under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM). This has resulted in steady incomes for multiple households, women gaining entrepreneurial skills, and securing leadership roles in agriculture. A SHG of women farmers led by the cluster coordinator Nadia Farooq, who embraced marigold farming on a piece of barren land with the assistance of CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM), attributed the new found success to the Ministry of Science and Technology's Floriculture mission. I'm thankful to Ministry of Science and Technology, who encouraged us to start marigold farming and provided us with the quality planting material besides giving us training to learn the latest practices in agro-technologies, Farooq, Cluster Coordinator of NRLM in Sartingal village, said. Months ago, five women from this cluster had joined the Floriculture Mission on trial basis. They cultivating marigold on a barren piece of land and the venture turned out to be profitable one and have now been selling flowers to the suppliers in Jammu, for the past one-and-a-half month. A local resident Rani, who has been associated with Umeed Scheme for past eight years, has emerged as an inspiring example of women's empowerment and self-reliance. Sharing her journey, Rani said that she initially started her entrepreneurial journey with a small business. She has been in marigold cultivation for the past eight years. Speaking to IANS, she added that she has successfully sold marigold flowers worth more than Rs 3 lakh in the market, creating an additional source of income for herself and her family. Appreciating the support by Floriculture Department, she said that they receive seeds from the department along with regular awareness programmes and guidance to improve their cultivation practices.
Guwahati: Grasses account for more than 81% of the food consumed by Asian elephants in tea gardens and adjoining landscapes of Assams Udalguri district, with researchers recording 84 grass-feeding events among 103 observations during a field study. The findings, published in the Journal of Threatened Taxa, highlight the ecological importance of grass-rich habitats within tea [] The post Beyond shelter, Assams tea gardens also serve as feeding grounds for elephants appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Why Gambhir calls India's NZ T20I triumph incredible
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Chinas Fifth Plenum in global spotlight, concerns raised over 'purges'
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 1 (IANS) The Fifth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), which concluded in Beijing on October 29, hogged global limelight as it came ahead of the 2027 leadership transition, as well as owing to the ecord low attendance of the Central Committee members and the alleged expulsion of 33 officials. Multiple reports suggested that out of 376, only 279 members attended the Central Committee meeting while 33 officials were expelled. A report in the Nile Post says that this has raised questions about accountability, political loyalty, and the concentration of power under President and General Secretary Xi Jinping, even as the Asian nation prepares for the 2027 leadership transition. Acknowledging that the Fifth Plenum accounted for a critical moment for the countrys political leadership, the report says that the scale of the reported investigations has intensified scrutiny of Chinas senior leadership. The report says that the campaign has become a central component of Xis broader approach to party building, which places considerable emphasis on ideological conformity, organisational discipline, and the selection of officials who implement central directives. As the party prepares for its 2027 Congress, investigations and disciplinary decisions could influence the composition of the next generation of leaders. The newspaper report further says that the challenge for Beijing is to maintain a disciplined party without undermining the institutional capacity needed to govern a complex economy and society. It also says that the longer-term question concerns accountability within Chinas political system. As the 2027 leadership transition approaches, the consequences will extend beyond the careers of individual officials. They will help shape the relationship between party discipline, political authority and administrative effectiveness in China, it said. Summing up the message of the Fifth Plenum, it says that its significance lies not in how many officials face disciplinary action, but in what the process reveals about the rules governing power within the Communist Party and the mechanisms available to hold its leadership accountable.
Russia's FSB says minor detained over Moscow park attack threat after US tip-off
Russia's FSB security service said on Sunday that an underage Russian national was detained over a threat to carry out a terrorist attack in Moscow's Tsaritsyno Park, after Russia received a tip-off from the United States, news agency Interfax reported. We are gr
Frugal spending and high efficiency, new mantra of China's PLA: Report
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 1 (IANS) 'Living a tight life' seems to be the key focus of China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) as it begins multi-pronged campaign to cut down costs, enhance efficiency and streamline operations. The purported shift in PLA's approach and policy comes as the force embarks on a mission to shed excess flab and become lean and mean without compromising on essentials. The policy shift is part of Chinese military's broader plans to cut costs, as part of the 15th five-year plan, from 2026 to 2030. According to a report in South China Morning Post, the PLA is distributing second-hand briefcases, salvaging screws and steel bars, and reusing holiday decorations to keep costs down as part of a thrift campaign emphasising growth through frugality. The PLA has been called upon to build the armed forces through diligence and thrift and pursuing a path of high efficiency, low cost and sustainability, it said. The PLA is also learnt to have reworked and recalibrated its procurement system to reduce costs of training, management and equipment support. The report says that the military mouthpiece PLA Daily also released a series of articles showing on how the policy was being promoted through practical measures at the unit level. According to it, a Chinese Air Force unit under the Eastern Theatre Command reused old decorative flags instead of buying new ones for holiday displays and the unit started promoting double-sided printing, parts recycling and ride-sharing for similar destinations. The money saved was instead spent on gym equipment for the unit, the article said. According to another PLA Daily article published, the PLA troops are using usable components from damaged equipment to manufacture training devices and cut procurement expenses. The unit began using a digital vehicle management system to monitor fuel consumption and driving conditions, while reviewing fuel-use data monthly and recognising the most economical drivers every quarter, according to the report. The PLA is also understood to have upgraded its maintenance facilities with 35 sets of equipment, enabling personnel to repair common vehicle issues themselves instead of relying on outside services, it added.
2,700-year-old mummy head yields first molecular evidence linking aloe to Egyptian embalming
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Anil Kapoor says 'Sanjay had his own unique vision' as he remembers the 'Musafir' maker
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Nov 1 (IANS) Veteran actor Anil Kapoor said that Sanjay Gupta had his own unique voice and vision as a filmmaker, as he remembers the 'Musafir' maker with a heartfelt post on X (Formerly known as Twitter). The 'Animal' actor said that he shared a special bond with the director both on a personal and professional level. Anil added that he really cherished the understanding the two of them shared. Anil wrote on his official handle, Deeply saddened and heartbroken by Sanjays passing. We shared a special bond, both personally and through the films we worked on together. There was always an understanding between us that I truly cherished. (sic) Sanjay had his own unique voice and vision as a filmmaker, and the memories of working with him will always remain close to my heart. Going to miss you, Sanjay. Rest in peace, my friend. (Folded hands emoji), he added. It must be noted that Anil first collaborated with Sanjay Gupta in the 2004 release 'Musafir'. The Sanjay Gupta directorial also featured Sanjay Dutt, Sameera Reddy, Aditya Pancholi, Mahesh Manjrekar, and Shakti Kapoor. The project also marked the Bollywood debut of Koena Mitra. These two then reunited for the 2013 crime action film 'Shootout at Wadala'. Directed by Sanjay Gupta, the movie stars Ronit Roy, John Abraham, Tusshar Kapoor, Manoj Bajpayee, Kangana Ranaut, Sonu Sood and Mahesh Manjrekar. Sanjay Gupta passed away on October 30 at his Mumbai home at the age of 59. The reports claim that the director slipped and sustained a fatal injury to the head on Friday night. As the other family members were asleep at the time, the director was discovered on Saturday morning. His last rites were held at Pawan Hans Crematorium in Mumbai on Saturday, attended by Abhishek Bachchan, Rakesh Roshan, Fardeen Khan, Manoj Bajpayee, Rajat Bedi, Ashoke Pandit, Milap Zaveri, Rohit Roy, Ronit Roy and Gulshan Grover, along with others from the fraternity.
Rahul Gandhi can become PM only in 'Mock Parliament': HM Amit Shah
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Nov 1 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Sunday that if Rahul Gandhi wants to become the country's Prime Minister, he should spend his entire life in a 'Mock Parliament' only, in the real one, your number will never come. The Home Minister made the remark about Rahul Gandhi's unfulfilled Prime Ministerial aspiration with reference to Congress party's mock impeachment proceedings against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar a day before. The Union Minister said Rahul Gandhi has been tasting defeat in elections for 15 years and his mother Sonia Gandhi's dream of seeing her son occupying the PM's chair has remained unfulfilled. He added that the only way Rahul Gandhi can become Prime Minister is in a Mock Parliament as it is near impossible for the Congress leader to make it to Parliament as Prime Minister in his lifetime. Speaking at an event here, Home Minister Shah condemned Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for rubbing salt into the wounds of families of the anti-Sikh riot victims by organising a rally in Delhi on days of the community's four-day mourning. On November 1, 1984, the Congress orchestrated the massacre of thousands of innocent Sikhs in Delhi, and today, on the same day, Rahul Gandhi held a rally in Delhi, rubbing salt into the wounds of those victim families, the Union Minister said at an event. I condemn the Congress for this rally on the day of the massacre. And I want to tell him (Rahul Gandhi) that due to his insensitivity, his 'Mohabat ki Dukan' will not be able to give people anything other than hatred, Home Minister Amit Shah added. He said the Union government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi reopened cases against the guilty Congress leaders and sent them to jail, apart from paying compensation to the victims' families and offering jobs. He added that Rahul Gandhi took instructions from abroad for organising the rally on Sunday despite requests from Sikh groups and our party not to do so. Delhi's traders pleaded that the rally be held after Diwali, otherwise there would be heavy losses in business, but Rahul Baba just had to hold the rally on the very day the Sikh massacre took place, Home Minister Shah said. In another development, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri led a march in West Delhi against the 1984 riots organised by the Bharatiya Janata Party to Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy and show solidarity with anti-Sikh riot victims. In a message on social media platform X, Puri said, The time of that tragedy in 1984, my parents were in Delhi, and some of my Hindu friends had sheltered them in their homes, setting an example of humanity and brotherhood. This massacre was not merely a tragedy of one community, but a wound inflicted on the history of the entire nation, one that can never be forgotten. Protecting humanity, delivering justice to the victims, and fostering national unity -- these are the greatest lessons to be drawn from that painful history, he recalled.
PDS dealer dies after 'illegal sand-laden tractor hits bike in Chatra
Digital Desk | Islamabad, Nov 1 (IANS) Pakistan's outreach to the Sikh community in the US has exposed sharp contrast between its claims of protecting Sikh heritage and failure in safeguarding minority community and its places of worship in the country. Several Gurdwaras in Pakistan continue to suffer from neglect, deterioration and encroachment while Pakistani officials in other countries continue to claim about conducting restoration work at places of worship in Pakistan and promoting religious tourism, a report has detailed. Reports on social media have claimed that Punjabs Minister for Minority Affairs and Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee President, Ramesh Singh Arora, recently visited Gurdwaras in the US and sought participation of the diaspora community in heritage restoration under the 'Adopt a Gurdwara' initiative and invited the Sikh diaspora to the Gurpurab celebrations in November with promises of simplified visa procedures. Several posts shared on social media alleged that cash and cashier's cheques were taken from American Gurdwara committees, according to a report in Khalsa Vox. Anjum Javaid, reportedly linked to Punjabs Directorate General of Archaeology, delivered remarks at a programme titled The Sikh Kingdom in California's Lathrop and proposed an economic corridor linking Nankana Sahib and Khyber Pass, including the redevelopment of Jamrud Fort and Baba Phoola Singh Chhauni. He reportedly claimed that around USD 700 million had been secured, including USD 94 million from the World Bank, to support heritage development and attract Sikh tourists each year. However, these claims are in contradiction to Pakistan's record of protecting Sikh heritage. Several Gurdwaras in Pakistan have reportedly fallen into severe disrepair, faced encroachment and been repurposed for alternate uses. Attacks against people from the Sikh community, religious discrimination and concerns regarding minority security have exposed the vulnerability of minority communities in Pakistan whose heritage Islamabad wants to celebrate abroad, according to a report in Khalsa Vox. In July, the demolition of the 125-year-old Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Pakistan's Farooqabad left portions of the historic shrine in rubble after a local businessman allegedly carried out the work without legal clearance or court order. Authorities acknowledged the demolition only after Sikh residents of Farooqabad took to the streets to protest the incident, a report has stated. For the Sikh community of Farooqabad, the night of June 24 was not an abstraction. It was the sound of machinery tearing into a building their grandparents grandparents had prayed in a gurdwara built over a century ago, when the Singh Sabha movement was still reshaping what it meant to be Sikh in a modernising Punjab. By morning, portions of the Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib lay in rubble, demolished by a local businessman who never bothered to seek the legal clearance required to touch it. No court order. No warning to the community that has treated this ground as sacred for generations, a report in Khalsa Vox detailed. According to the report, an official later admitted that the department failed to take notice of the demolition until local Sikhs protested. It added that the Pakistani authorities responded only after a minority community, long burdened by institutional neglect, was forced to stand up and defend its heritage. That is the real story here not a bureaucratic lapse, but a community once again forced to fight for the right to simply exist and be remembered. The Sikhs of Farooqabad did not have the luxury of trusting their government to protect what mattered to them. They had to protest to be seen at all, it noted.
'Cong sponsored 1984 Sikh massacre, Rahul now rubbing salt into their wounds': HM Shah
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Nov 1 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday alleged that the Congress' politics had led to the rutal killing of Sikhs in 1984 and that the Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi was now ubbing salt into the victims' wounds by holding a major rally in Delhi on the same date. Union Minister Shah made the remarks while referring to the INDIA bloc's 'Dilli Chalo' rally at the national capital's Ramlila Maidan. Addressing a public gathering at Tiranga Park in Chandigarh, the Union Home Minister recalled that on November 1, 1984, thousands of Sikhs were burned alive, many were forced to flee their homes, countless children were orphaned, women lost their husbands, and thousands of families were devastated, in riots instigated by the Congress in Delhi. Referring to then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's controversial remark when a big tree falls, the earth shakes, Amit Shah said: People still remember his (Rajiv Gandhi's) statement, only Congress leaders could have the audacity to describe the massacre of thousands of Sikhs in such a manner. He highlighted that after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government came to power, riot-related cases were reopened, victims were provided financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh each, and prominent Congress leaders implicated in the riots were sent to jail. The country had never before witnessed riots sponsored by a political party on such a scale, Union Minister Shah alleged. Questioning the INDIA bloc's rally in Delhi, Amit Shah said: I had initially believed Rahul Gandhi was too young at the time of the riots and perhaps had not studied history, and therefore might not know the significance of the dates. He noted that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had appealed through a press conference that Congress should avoid holding the rally on November 1, 2, or 3, as these were the dates when the 1984 anti-Sikh riots took place and such an event would hurt the sentiments of the Sikh community, including mothers, sisters, and children. Despite this, Congress did not change its plans, he added. The Union Home Minister also alleged that the decision to hold the rally on the same day when thousands of Sikhs were burned alive was taken following instructions from abroad, asserting that India and Punjab would never forget the tragedy. Referring to the traders' repeated appeals to Rahul Gandhi and other INDIA bloc leaders, Amit Shah said: According to the traders, business peaks during the Diwali season. They stock sweets, firecrackers, and new clothes for children, and unsold inventory can result in significant losses. People from various parts of North India visit Delhi's wholesale markets during this period for festive shopping. Business worth around Rs 25,000 crore takes place during these three to four days. Traders repeatedly appealed through letters and press conferences to postpone the rally until after Diwali, but Congress did not change the date, he added. Meanwhile, Union Minister Shah cited the abrogation of Article 370, efforts to eliminate Naxalism, and the abolition of triple talaq under the Narendra Modi-led government, while asserting that the country was progressing at an unprecedented pace. Stating that the country, including Punjab, would be made drug-free by December 31, 2029, he reiterated the Narendra Modi government's commitment in combating drug abuse. Earlier, Union Minister Shah inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for various development and infrastructure projects worth Rs 258 crore in Chandigarh, following which he addressed the public meeting at Tiranga Park.
Assam forest dept under fire as hills mined, waterbody filled
Guwahati: In a glaring indictment of the Assam Forest Departments failure to protect wildlife habitats, large-scale hill cutting and the alleged filling of an elephant watering site have been reported in the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) of Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary, barely a few metres from the protected areas boundary and adjacent to Guwahati city. What makes [] The post Assam forest dept under fire as hills mined, waterbody filled & elephant corridor blocked in Amchang appeared first on NorthEast Now .
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Telangana CM Revanth Reddy stirs row, likens PM Modi to 'Ravana'; BJP calls it 'disgraceful'
Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy stirred a row after he likened Prime Minister Narendra Modi with 'Ravana' and said an army of Congress' state unit workers will defeat him like the 'vanara sena', drawing a sharp reaction from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
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AI could turn China's social rating system into surveillance tool, scholar warns
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 1 (IANS) The integration of artificial intelligence into China's social rating framework could significantly enhance the government's ability to monitor and assess citizens, but it also risks creating a large-scale surveillance system, according to a recent study by a Chinese legal scholar, a report has said. The research, published last month in the Journal of Sichuan Normal University, cited by South China Morning Post, was conducted by Lin Jianxing, a doctoral candidate at Sichuan University's Law School. The study examined the implications of combining AI, big data and predictive algorithms with social rating mechanisms used in governance and public administration. Lin argued that social rating systems rely on data mining and algorithmic analysis to convert citizens' online and offline activities into quantifiable scores. These scores are then used to assess potential risks and predict future behaviour, enabling authorities to make administrative and regulatory decisions. According to the study, AI-powered rating systems can strengthen risk assessment capabilities and improve the efficiency of government agencies. However, Lin warned that extensive reliance on algorithmic governance could create problems related to opacity, discrimination and large-scale surveillance. The researcher noted that while social ratings may not appear to directly affect an individual's legal rights and obligations, they can influence how citizens are treated in areas such as healthcare, financial services, lending and access to government programmes. The study was funded by a project focused on social governance models and institutional innovation in Sichuan province. Lin said the effectiveness of such systems largely depends on the quality of the data collected and the reliability of the algorithms used. Poor-quality data or flawed model design could produce inaccurate assessments and unfair outcomes. He also cautioned that without strict data governance standards and robust oversight mechanisms, the use of extensive digital footprints to build detailed citizen profiles could cause the system to evolve from a risk-management tool into an instrument of behavioural surveillance. The research comes as China continues to expand the use of artificial intelligence in public administration. An action plan released by the State Council last year called for the gradual and orderly integration of AI into government services, with the goal of improving public service delivery and enabling more proactive governance. One example cited in the study is Anhui province's dynamic social assistance monitoring platform, which uses data-sharing mechanisms and information databases to identify low-income populations and improve the delivery of welfare services. Lin acknowledged that social rating systems could help governments better identify citizens' needs, anticipate risks and allocate public resources more efficiently. However, he stressed that responsible implementation would require transparent procedures, reliable algorithms and clear limits on administrative power. China's social credit system has long attracted international attention and criticism, often being portrayed as a nationwide mechanism that scores and monitors citizens' behaviour. However, the study noted that the reality is more fragmented, with different government agencies and local authorities operating a variety of systems rather than a single unified network. Citing previous academic research, the paper said only a limited number of Chinese cities operate behavioural rating programmes for residents, while aspects of the broader social credit framework are also used to monitor government agencies and public officials.
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Farah Khan remembers 'Yaaron ka yaar' Sanjay Gupta with a throwback picture
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Nov 1 (IANS) Director and choreographer Farah Khan remembered 'Yaaron ka yaar' Sanjay Gupta with a throwback picture. The 'Om Shanti Om' maker took to the Stories section of her Instagram handle on Sunday and posted a throwback photograph posing with Sanjay Gupta. The old still showed the two posing against a wall with Farah smiling for the camera. Mourning the loss of her dear friend, Farah wrote, Sanjay u were a yaaron ka yaar.. so much outpouring of love iv rarely seen.. my heart goes out to Anu n the kids..(sic), along with a red heart emoji. Sanjay Gupta unfortunately passed away on October 30, leaving the entire industry in a state of shock. His last rites were held at Pawan Hans Crematorium in Mumbai on Saturday. His final journey was attended by Abhishek Bachchan, Rakesh Roshan, Fardeen Khan, Manoj Bajpayee, Rajat Bedi, Ashoke Pandit, Milap Zaveri, Rohit Roy, Ronit Roy, Gulshan Grover, along with several others from the fraternity. Many others used social media to pay their last respects to the 'Kaante' maker. Vivek, who worked with Sanjay Gupta in 'Shootout at Lokhandwala', expressed his grief in a post that read, I am deeply shocked and heartbroken by the sudden and untimely demise of Sanjay Gupta. This loss is truly unimaginable and very difficult to process. Having worked together, this news feels deeply personal. Vivek pointed out how difficult it is to accept the loss of someone with whom one had shared a journey, conversations, and memories. Some news leaves you numb, and this is one of those moments. I will always cherish the time we spent working together. You will be missed, Sanjay. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. May God give them the strength to cope with this irreparable loss. Rest in peace. Om Shanti, he added
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 1 (IANS) Indian wrestler Manisha Bhanwala revealed that years of practising for difficult match situations with her coaches helped her overcome a 0-6 deficit in the final of the Senior World Wrestling Championships and script a historic comeback to win a gold medal in the women's 59kg category in Astana, Kazakhstan. Manisha, who became the first Indian woman to win a gold medal at the Senior World Wrestling Championships, said she did not experience any mental pressure despite trailing Abigail Neto 0-6 in the gold-medal bout, as she had regularly trained for such challenging situations. Manisha said her preparation for such situations, particularly the ability to score points in the final seconds, helped her turn the bout around and secure the historic triumph. When we practice, our coaches give us situations where we have to take points in 30 seconds or not. So, we practise on that. I had been working for a long time for that. I had to handle such situations. So, I practised, and it helped. There was no mental pressure there, Manisha said in a media interaction facilitated by SAI Media on Sunday. The 23-year-old also reflected on her disappointment at the Asian Games, where she failed to win a medal in the women's 57kg category, but said she quickly shifted her focus to the World Championships, which were scheduled just 10 days later. I didn't think I would come without a medal from the Asian Games. The hard work I had put in and the amount of practice I had done made me believe that I would win a medal. I was very frustrated. How could this happen? But I don't focus on what has happened. I believe in what is next, she said. I had 10 days, so I focused on the World Championships. I worked on what I lacked during those 10 days. So, yes, it helped, she added. Manisha eventually competed in the 59kg category in Astana, as she felt that the short gap between the two competitions would make it difficult to manage her weight and recovery for another appearance in the 57kg category. Looking ahead to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, Manisha confirmed that she would target the 57kg category in the qualification events next year, as the 59kg category is not part of the Olympic programme. For the Los Angeles qualifiers next year, I want to compete in 57kg, she said. She also highlighted the importance of participating in the four ranking series competitions in 2027, saying they would help her prepare for the Olympic qualification events. The most important thing for us is to play in the four ranking series. If we play in those, we will get a lot of things which will make the Los Angeles qualifiers easy, she added. The wrestler also acknowledged the support she has received through the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), under which she has been included since 2024. She said the financial assistance and exposure to international training camps had played an important role in her development. In our TOPS scheme, we get monthly pocket money. It is very important for a sportsperson. Many things are very expensive. We can't provide it to our family. There are many things. For example, we go to foreign camps, and TOPS helps us get there. We get a chance to practise with foreign players. It increases our confidence. We get to learn many things, Manisha said. She further revealed that TOPS continued to back her even after her disappointing Asian Games campaign and encouraged her to shift her attention towards the Los Angeles Olympics. I have been in TOPS since 2024. TOPS has given me a lot of things. They always support me. Even when I lost a medal in the Asian Games, they told me to focus on Los Angeles. TOPS provides me with everything I need. I thank TOPS for that, she said. Comparing the Asian Games and World Championships, Manisha said both competitions feature strong opponents and that it was difficult to determine which was tougher. In wrestling, Asia is very strong. The world is strong. How can I compare? Competition is competition. The best players come to Asia, and the best players come to the world. But in the world, there is a European edge. In Asia, there are Asian countries, she said. Manisha's historic gold was part of India's four-medal haul at the World Championships, with the country also winning two silver medals and a bronze.
Hardeep Puri, Delhi CM lead BJP march against Congress 'anarchy', Ramlila Maidan rally
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 1 (IANS) Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri led a Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) march in Delhi's Hari Nagar against the anger of Sikhs and victims of the 1984 riots against the Congress and its anarchy reflected in its rally at the Ramlila Maidan. The march was joined by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Delhi BJP President Harsh Malhotra. During the march, the BJP leaders said that the Congress has hurt the sentiments of the Sikh community by holding a rally on November 1 in the middle of the community's mourning over the massacre of thousands of Sikhs in the 1984 riots. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on social media platform X said, Rahul Gandhi, Congress, and the INDI alliance, who stage platforms of anarchy in the name of democracy -- the country is witnessing their true colours. The country has not forgotten the date of November 1. On this very day in 1984, the horrific chapter of the Sikh massacre was being written on the streets of Delhi. In a message on X, the Delhi CM hit out at Rahul Gandhi and said, First spread lies, then defame the people's mandate, create an atmosphere of anarchy on the streets, and recover the cost of your political frustration from the country and the people of Delhi. This has become the model of Rahul Gandhi's politics. Congress cannot erase the stain of 1984 by invoking the name of democracy. Nor can it, in the desperation of being repeatedly rejected by the people, put the livelihoods of Delhi's traders at stake. Rahul Gandhi, remember: the revenge for defeat from the people's mandate cannot be taken from the country, nor can the cost of your political failures be recovered from the people of Delhi, she added. Harsh Malhotra said that the Congress has hurt the sentiments of the Sikh community by holding a rally on November 1 in the middle of the community's mourning over the massacre of thousands of Sikhs in the 1984 riots. He said the people of the country have completely rejected the Vote Chor, Gaddi Chhod campaign launched by the Rahul Gandhi's Congress, Communists, Samajwadis, Rashtriya Janata Dal, DMK, and leaders such as Yogendra Yadav and Prashant Bhushan. He added that today, not only the people of the country but also workers of opposition parties have rejected their leaders' stand on SIR by boycotting the Chalo Ramlila Maidan campaign, making it clear that SIR is not an issue. Malhotra said that the people of the country want the Rahul Congress, which has failed in its attempt to politically relaunch Rahul Gandhi, to apologise to the Sikh community of the country and the business community of Delhi. Delhi BJP Spokesperson Praveen Shankar Kapoor said that the Congress, which had been creating anxiety among Delhi's traders and citizens for the past 15 days by claiming that it would organise a rally of lakhs of people on Sunday, has once again failed in its fifth attempt in 10 years to politically relaunch Rahul Gandh. The Delhi BJP spokesperson added that we had stated as early as Saturday morning that Rahul Gandhi would not be able to mobilise even 25,000 people, let alone 10 lakh. Today, the empty Ramlila Maidan has proven our assessment correct, he said.
Amit Shah Slams Rahul Gandhis Ramlila Rally as 'Rubbing Salt on Wounds'
