Column | Top books to read this July
Five new books transporting readers across centuries, continents and imagined futures
13 killed, two injured as falling boulders crush moving vehicle in Himachal's Lahaul-Spiti
The deceased included a six-month-old infant. Fifteen people were on board in the SUV which was on its way from Kullu to Killar when large boulders suddenly crashed onto the vehicle, completely crushing it
Speed up Central government projects in Amaravati: Pemmasani
Officials told the Minister that the CGGPOA project at Rayapudi village would be taken up at an estimated cost of 1,299 crore over 5.53 acres, providing 2,16,032 sq m of built-up area
Jantar Mantar protest: Digital initiative by a software firm in Kochi to extend support
Kochi-based software firm Faircode has launched One More Voice, a digital initiative allowing individuals worldwide to express solidarity to the protest with a single word
Rupee recovers 18 paise to settle at 96.55 against U.S. dollar
A combination of factors, including heightened tensions in West Asia, foreign institutional investor outflows, and sustained negative sentiments at the domestic equity markets, maintained pressure on the local unit, said forex traders
Political parties, writers and civil societies urge the State to move the Supreme Court, saying the ruling has implications for democratic assembly while respecting the temples sanctity
Karavali movie review: A race that stumbles before the finish line
Though Raj B Shetty-Prajwal Devarajs Karavali, which dives into the thrilling world of Kambala, is technically solid, the film stumbles when it comes to character depth and pacing
The Hindu Property Expo 2026 to showcase Chennais real estate market
The two-day event will bring together developers, builders, consultants and homebuyers to explore citys latest residential and commercial projects
The Hindu Real Estate Summit 2026 to bring industry leaders to Chennai
Developers and industry experts will discuss urban development, infrastructure, sustainability and the future of Indian cities
255 COVID-19 beds kept ready across 17 teaching hospitals in Andhra Pradesh
The Health Department has stocked masks, PPE kits and medicines, and allowed hospital superintendents to buy emergency supplies locally without waiting for State-level procurement; 12 patients are in hospital and 11 in home isolation
EU finds TikTok violates its digital rulebook by failing to protect privacy of minors
The investigation comes on the heels of back-to-back crackdowns on Big Tech by Brussels, which has led the world in regulating tech behemoths, including Meta and Apple
Fake godman gets triple life imprisonment under POCSO Act in Namakkal
A couple from Salem district approached him to remove evil spirits from their two daughters bodies in the year 2020. In the guise of performing a pooja, he sexually assaulted them
India, Pakistan get direct quarterfinal entry in Asian Games cricket draw
Cricket is part of the Asiad schedule for a fourth time, having earlier featured in 2010 Guangzhou, 2014 Incheon, and 2023 Hangzhou Games
Sensex, Nifty extend losses for fifth straight day on U.S. trade tariffs, West Asia tensions
The 30-share BSE Sensex declined 0.43%, to settle at 76,059.77. During the day, it tanked 1.20%, to 75,474.43
Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach Elevates Guest Experience with New Dining and Family Facilities
Cyberabads Serilingampally to get Centre for wildlife awareness, rescue and rehabilitation
Cyberabad Municipal Corporation (CMC) Standing Committee approves box drains, road projects in various parts, and development of PJR Stadium
Beachville opens second cafe in Tiruvanmiyur, Chennai
Away from the bustle of St Marys Road, Beachvilles second caf in Tiruvanmiyur embraces slower brews, experimental coffee, and comforting food
MGRs education reforms paved way for higher education growth in T.N.: Minister Sengottaiyan
Watch: Big bureaucratic reshuffle in Education Ministry amid NEET scrutiny
The Centre has announced a major bureaucratic reshuffle in the Education Ministry, with Naresh Pal Gangwar appointed as the new Higher Education Secretary.
Mumbai street artist Tyler on his stencil becoming a protest symbol at Jantar Mantar
Mumbai-based street artist Tyler discusses their views on how their stencil of Prime Minister Narendra Modi flanked by industrialists became a protest symbol at the national protest against NEET examination paper leaks
Best Lip Balm in India: How Weather Affects Your Lips and What to Use
Chapped lips in Delhi winter, tanning after a Goa trip, or peeling lips from spending all day in air-conditioned offices, many people notice the problem only when their lips start peeling. Unlike the rest of the skin, the lips have a very thin protective barrier and lose moisture quickly. That is why a lip balm that works in one season may not be enough in another. If you are looking for the right lip balm for your concern, it helps to choose one based on how the Indian weather affects your lips throughout the year. Why Indian Weather Can Damage Your Lips Lips dont have sebaceous glands, which means they cant produce the natural oils that the skin on your face does. As a result, they dry out more easily, especially if exposed to heat, cold wind, pollution or constant air conditioning. Indian weather adds a layer of stress: High summer temperatures can dehydrate the lips. Winter winds can strip away moisture. Humidity in monsoons, followed by AC exposure, causes dryness. The lips can darken due to prolonged exposure to the sun and pollution. Thats why many dermatologists recommend adding a protective lip balm to your daily routine rather than using it only when your lips start cracking. How Weather Changes Affect Your Lips Through the Year India's climate varies significantly from region to region, with different seasons, and your lips react to those changes more quickly. Knowing how each season affects the lips makes it easier to choose the right texture, ingredients, and reapplication time. Summer Dehydration, rough texture and increased pigmentation can be caused by strong UV exposure and heat. In cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad, where the summer sun is quite intense, apply an SPF lip balm every 2-3 hours while outdoors, especially if you are sweating or drinking frequently. Winter Cold wind and low humidity can dry out the moisture from the lips. Thats when youre more likely to get cracking, peeling and painful dryness. A richer lip balm for dry lips containing hydrating ingredients like Shea Butter works better with a lightweight formula. Monsoon Many people believe humidity keeps lips hydrated, but moving from humid outdoors to air-conditioned indoors can still cause dryness. In cities like Mumbai, Kochi and Chennai, where there is a lot of humidity, go for a non-sticky balm that won't feel heavy in humid weather but still has ingredients to reduce moisture loss. Signs Your Lips Are Damaged by Weather Weather damage does not always appear as severe cracking. Some common signs include: Discomfort or tightness after washing the face Flaking or peeling skin Burning sensation in cold weather Fine cracks at corners of mouth. Dark patches/uneven lip colour Lips that feel dry again within an hour If lip darkening develops gradually due to sun exposure, smoking, dehydration, or irritation, the first step is usually protecting the lips and repairing the skin barrier. Consistent application of a moisturising lip balm with SPF can often help prevent any further pigmentation. Key Ingredients to Look for in a Lip Balm Dermatologists often look for ingredients that both hydrate and prevent moisture loss. Ingredients to help with Dry and Chapped lips Shea butter Rich in fatty acids to smooth rough spots and make lips feel more comfortable if they feel tight. Ceramide Helps repair the lip barrier and reduces the risk of recurring lip dryness. Beeswax Creates a breathable layer to hold moisture and protect from wind exposure. Hyaluronic Acid Draws moisture to the lips and can make dehydrated lips feel smoother. Vitamin E Provides antioxidant support and helps soothe lips stressed from environmental exposure. Ingredients useful for Sun-related Lip Darkening SPF 30 or higher : Helps reduce UV damage that can lead to tanning and uneven lips. Zinc oxide or Titanium dioxide : These are physical UV filters that sit on the surface of the skin and reflect sunlight. They are good for sensitive lips. Niacinamide : Helps to improve the evenness of the lip tone and strengthens the skin barrier. Try to avoid excess menthol, camphor, strong artificial fragrances, and repeated lip-plumping ingredients if you have sensitive lips. How to Apply Lip Balm the Right Way Many people don't realise that application technique is more important than it is. Follow these tips to get better results: Apply to slightly damp lips after washing your face. Instead of rubbing the product back and forth, use a thin, even layer. Gently press the lips together to spread the balm. Reapply before stepping into harsh sun, cold wind, or air-conditioned environments. At night, apply a slightly thicker layer to help reduce moisture loss overnight. If your lips are very dry, most dermatologists recommend applying a hydrating layer first and then sealing it in with a moisturising balm before bed. Common Lip Care Mistakes to Avoid Licking your lips frequently It looks like a quick fix, but saliva evaporates quickly, leaving the lips even drier. This cycle is often more apparent in air-conditioned offices and classrooms. Only applying a lip balm when the lips are already cracked By the time you see severe cracking, the lip barrier is already compromised. Regular use is usually more effective than waiting until visible damage occurs. Ignoring sun protection Many people apply sunscreen to the face but skip the lips. Repeated exposure to UV in the Indian summer can also cause dryness and gradual darkening. Over-exfoliating Harsh sugar scrubs or scrubbing too hard can make peeling worse and cause small injuries. Gentle exfoliation once in a while is usually enough. Picking peeling skin Picking at the flaky skin can cause bleeding and delay healing. It is better to put a thick layer of balm on and let the skin soften naturally. Conclusion When you are looking for the best lip balm in India , make sure you choose the one that matches your climate, lifestyle, and lip concerns. Summer requires SPF protection, winter requires richer moisturisation, and monsoon requires frequent reapplication. If you have ongoing dryness, then pick a nourishing lip balm for dry lips with barrier-supportive ingredients. Consistent protection is important, especially if you have gradual pigmentation due to sun exposure or irritation. A good lip balm works best when its a daily habit, not a seasonal rescue product.
Ex-sarpanch beaten to death in Uttar Pradesh's Ballia
Ram Vyas Verma, who was also a local Samajwadi Party leader, was found dead at a pump station with head injuries caused by a blunt object
This Chennai home celebrates craft and quiet luxury
Designed by Alara Studio, the Alwarpet apartment combines muted interiors, bespoke furniture and collected treasures
Three killed as car crashes into truck near Madurantakam
Rahul Gandhi: No discussion before Pradhans resignation
Gujarat rains displace 38,000 people; Army, NDRF launch rescue operations
As many as five trains towards Mumbai were cancelled owing to waterlogging in rail routes in south Gujarat
The estimated construction cost of each flat,of about 528 sq. ft., is around 11 lakh per unit, with the government providing a 5 lakh subsidy and beneficiaries contributing the remaining 6 lakh
Part of bridge washed away in Alirajpur; Gujarat Baroda route disrupted
Resignation of Pradhan non-negotiable: CJP to Union Ministers
Union Health Minister Nadda said the ministers heard their demands and conveyed that they will get back to the CJP. We will again meet on Saturday, he said.
Youngsters are not afraid of CBI or ED: KTR tells Modi
Promising Make in India, this government had delivered Leak in India, BRSA working president says in a sarcastic tone
PFI leader arrested in Kerala RSS activist Sreenivasan murder case remanded
Muhammadali K.P., PFI Palakkad district president, remanded after being produced at the residence of judge P.K. Mohandas, Special Judge, considering the cases booked by NIA in Kochi
Gulzar celebrates the city that welcomed him as a teenager in new book Aamchi Mumbai
The veteran poet-lyricist revisits his early years in Mumbai, reflecting on the city that shaped his life and creative journey
The Revenue Authority of one district would not be competent to issue such a certificate in respect of persons belonging to another district, according to a G.O. issued in 2005
How Indian real estate is prioritising quality over quantity
Indias property market embraces durable assets, smarter construction and stronger long-term performance
AMMK submits petition to T.N. Speaker seeking disqualification of Mannargudi MLA Kamaraj
On May 12, Mr. Dhinakaran expelled Mr. Kamaraj from the party for anti-party activities. The next day, the MLA voted in favour of the confidence motion moved by the Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay-led government.
CJP doubles down on Pradhans exit ahead of crucial govt talks
J&K Government approves Rs 15.22 crore augmentation of Kathua Grid Station
Jammu, July 24: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has approved the augmentation of the Grid Station, Kathua, by enhancing its capacity from 350 MVA to 450 MVA, along with allied infrastructure works, at a cost of Rs 15.22 crore. The project will strengthen the power transmission network, enhance grid reliability and ensure improved quality of electricity supply to consumers in the area. The Government of Jammu & Kashmir has approved the augmentation of the Grid Station, Kathua, by enhancing its capacity from 350 MVA to 450 MVA, along with allied infrastructure works, at a cost of 15.22 crore. The project will strengthen the power transmission network, Office of Chief Minister, J&K (@CM_JnK) July 24, 2026
A Red Sea blockade could change the course of the Iran war | The Hindu Editorial
The Houthi movements decision to target Saudi-linked shipping in the Red Sea has raised fears of a wider regional conflict. As tensions spread from the Strait of Hormuz to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, concerns are growing over energy supplies, global trade routes, and the risk of an even broader Middle East war.
Chennai Love Story movie review: Sri Gouri Priya is terrific in a film that loses steam midway
Director Ravi Namburii and writer-producer Sai Rajeshs emotional narrative gets off to a great start, only to squander its potential
Adarsh Baal Vidyalaya series review: Kay Kay Menon struggles to score in this facile school of mess
Spread into seven short episodes, the series stretches its runtime on occasion with repetitive jokes, and its perpetual reliance on silliness to make a point doesnt quite lead to a fruitful whole
CityUHK researchers transform vibrations into clean fuels and chemicals through piezosynthesis
CityUHK researchers transform vibrations into clean fuels and chemicals through piezosynthesis
Sonam Wangchuk reveals govts written assurances after calling Off fast
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has ended his 26-day hunger strike after receiving written assurances from the government. According to Wangchuk, the Centre agreed to no legal action against peaceful protesters, compensation for affected families, and a detailed discussion on accountability in the education and examination system in Parliament. However, no assurance was given on the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
U.S. strikes Iran and Bahrain; warns of incoming fire as clashes over shipping routes escalate
The Gulf states have come under frequent fire over the past week as the U.S. and Iran exchange escalating strikes in fighting
Avatar: Seven Havens gets release date; first look teaser unveiled
Avatar: Seven Havens is the third original series in the popular fantasy franchise and tells the story of a young Earthbender, Pavi, who discovers shes the new Avatar in a world that is coming to terms with newer devasations
Kerala govt forms high-level panel to draft Sidharthan Anti-Ragging andStudent Welfare Act
Kerala State Higher Education Council vice-chairperson Achuthsankar S. Nair to chair the committee constituted by Home Department
Delhi HC declines interim injunction against OpenAI in ANI copyright suit
OpenAIs act of storing ANIs literary works for training its Large Language Models, prima facie, did not amount to copyright infringement, says judge
Court observes that guidelines issued by SC requiring to provide written grounds of arrest was not given to Dr. Ram, which led to his release by Special Court. This was affirmed by a report from Additional Director General of Police
How Kerala keeps its Karkkadakam rituals alive
Even as times change and climate vagaries reshape Kerala, certain rituals that mark Karkkadakam continue to hold sway
Supreme Court bars posting, uploading court proceedings on social media without prior permission
Senior advocate Vikas Singh, appearing for the petitioner, highlighted the misuse of videos of court proceedings on social media and other digital platforms
iQOO Z11 Lite 5G launched in India with Dimensity processor
iQOO Z11 Lite 5G ships with a 6,500 mAh battery, and a 44W charger inside the box
'Beginning of accountability': Wangchuk says he extended fast by two days during negotiations
According to the post, Mr. Wangchuk ended his fast after 26 days upon getting assurance from the government and MPs of all political parties that the issue of accountability in the failing examination system would be discussed in Parliament
What is Tamil Nadus new presence-less property registration service? | Explained
The Tamil Nadu government is set to make property registration easier with its new Presence-less Registration system, launching on August 17, 2026. The move, in the first phase, will enable online property registration by flat and plot promoters, bankers and financial institutions eliminating visits to Sub-Registrar offices.
How a wall art mural in Telangana celebrates sustainability and community
At an EV charging station near Khammam, artist Mounica Tata uses a 50-foot mural inspired by the banana plant and everyday traditions to explore sustainability, community and intergenerational wisdom
Courtyard by Marriott Phuket, Patong Beach Wins TripAdvisor Best of the Best Award
Courtyard by Marriott Phuket, Patong Beach Wins TripAdvisor Best of the Best Award
Yuva Morcha protest march to Kerala CMs official residence over PSC exam anomalies turns violent
Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha alleges double standards on the part of V.D. Satheesan in taking part in protest led by Rahul Gandhi outside PM Modi's residence in Delhi demanding action on NEET paper leaks
Students march through central Hyderabad over NEET row, demand Union Education Ministers resignation
Students participating in protest as part of Telangana-wide bandh call, condemn police action against protesters during the recent Parliament march in Delhi
Lava launches Virat V1 5G and Virat V1 for online buyers
The homegrown smartphone company has partnered with Flipkart to sell their Virat V1 series
Man allegedly kills wife over Talliki Vandanam money in Annamayya district
Padmavathi, 28, of Kothapalli village was allegedly killed by her husband after she refused to hand over money credited under the Talliki Vandanam scheme, her mother told the police; a case has been registered
PM Modi breaks silence on NEET paper leak controversy, announces fast-track courts
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced tougher measures against exam paper leaks, including the creation of Fast-Track Courts and a new law with stricter punishment for offenders. In a late-night video message amid the ongoing NEET-UG controversy and nationwide protests, the Prime Minister said safeguarding the future of students remains the governments top priority.
LG Sinha visits Budgam, meets family of Head Constable Ashiq Hussain Qureshi
Srinagar, July 24: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday visited Lalpora, Beerwah, Budgam, to meet the family members of martyred J&K Police Head Constable Ashiq Hussain Qureshi. His courage and sacrifice will forever inspire us. The nation salutes his devotion to duty and stands firmly with his family, Sinha said in a post on X. He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the police force, Army and CAPFs continue to dismantle the terror ecosystem. The supreme sacrifice of martyr Ashiq Hussain Qureshi and his legacy of service and love for the motherland will guide us in building a peaceful, prosperous and developed Jammu Kashmir, the LG said. Visited Lalpora, Beerwah, Budgam to meet the family members of Martyr Head Constable of J&K Police, Ashiq Hussain Qureshi. His courage and sacrifice will forever inspire us. The nation salutes his devotion to duty and stands firmly with his family. Under the leadership of Honble pic.twitter.com/7KSolvQGAK Manoj Sinha (@manojsinha_) July 24, 2026 In a statement, the Lieutenant Governor said the entire nation is proud of brave-heart Ashiq Hussain Qureshi, whose courage, sacrifice and devotion to duty will remain etched in the collective memory. He said the martyrs ideals of love for duty and honour for the motherland will continue to inspire generations in building a peaceful and prosperous Union Territory. He assured the family that the administration stands firmly with them and will ensure their well-being and dignity. The Lieutenant Governor also assured full support to the family until Ashiq Hussain Qureshis son finishes his studies and becomes eligible for a compassionate government appointment. He highlighted the significant progress achieved under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in dismantling the terror ecosystem and reaffirmed his resolve to eliminate terrorism from Jammu Kashmir. He urged the entire society, especially youth of Jammu Kashmir, to draw strength from the martyrs dedication and devotion to Maa Bharti and remain united in the fight against terrorism.
Education loan can be denied if parent as co-borrower has poor credit score, says Kerala HC
However, the application could be considered if there is an eligible co-borrower with sufficient credit score, says High Court
Media reports 'reckless', no plea related to CJP-led protests filed: CJI
On July 22, a lawyer sought urgent hearing on the police action against students during the Cockroach Janta Party-led protest march in New Delhi on July 20.
Officials tell GMR to finish pending works at Bhogapuram airport before Modis visit
Special Chief Secretary M.T. Krishna Babu inspected the site with Collector S. Ramsundar Reddy and Joint Collector S. Sedhu Madhavan; around 2,000 buses will be arranged and 6,000 private vehicles are expected on the day
Max, Min and Meowzaki movie review: Adil Hussain elevates this antidote to allergies
A heartfelt drama about grief, dad issues and complex societal prejudices,Max, Min and Meowzakiimpresses with its emotional restraint and performances, but some of its messaging feels self-conscious and didactic.
Mary Anning: the princess of Palaeontology
This is the story of one of the first female palaeontologists Mary Anning
India's Formula 1 push: Sports Ministry grants NSF status to motor-sport body FMSCI
India hosted F1 from 2011 to 2013 before the race was dropped from the calendar owing to taxation and financial reasons and hopes to host one by 2028
Rays Power Infra Expands Power Infrastructure Footprint in Rajasthan, Commissions Critical 400 kV Grid Assets with Extra Voltage Transmission Line
Caladium Systems Launches Happiffie, India's First AI-powered Celebration Platform
Caladium Systems Launches Happiffie, India's First AI-powered Celebration Platform
Aukera - India's solitaire experts, now in Chennai
Aukera - India's solitaire experts, now in Chennai
TNEA 2026 counselling: Over 35,000 students receive tentative allotment in first round
Not holding NEET debate will send wrong message to country: Rijiju in Lok Sabha
The Minister also noted that activist Sonam Wangchuk has broken his fast and the House should begin a debate on the subject
Condemning the allegations of foreign funding behind the protest Sourav Das said, If narrative is being pushed that we are foreign-funded, why is the government engaging with Sonam Wangchuk? Why is the government engaging with us?
Tracing voters in an ever-evolving Bengaluru
From its demography to its geography, Bengaluru lookedvery different24 years ago, in 2002, when Karnataka last undertook an intensive revision of special nature of its electoral rolls.The changing nature of the city makes the ongoing Special Intensive Revision particularly challenging for both voters and Booth Level Officers, writes Rishita Khanna
Vivek Shanbhag on Hyphen, and bridging the gap in Indias translationlandscape
Novelist Vivek Shanbhag speaks about the launch of Hyphen, a literary journal focused on translations from Indian languages into English, and why the journal is an efficient and enticingwayto introduce Indian writing to readers around the world
Justice Mohammed Shaffiq directs the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority to explain how the clearance could be revoked unilaterally without notice to the realtor
Indias Cricket Summer Heats up With ITW Universe On-Boarding Multiple Brands for Upcoming Series
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India Business Wire India
Introducing four cutting-edge product suites designed to modernize enterprise operations, collaboration, and Vision AI workloads.
CCI says platform fees and delivery charges charged by Zomato not abuse of dominance
The Competition Commission of India said that these charges, including the commission Eternal (formerly Zomato) charges restaurants, are charges for services it is providing and do not constitute an inflated price of the dish itself.
Godrej Enterprises Group Earns EcoVadis Gold Medal, Ranks Among The Top 5% Companies Globally
India Business Wire India
Watch: Trump throws U.S.-Saudi nuclear deal into turmoil by pinning it to Israel ties
U.S. President Donald Trump said the civilian nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia will only proceed if Riyadh recognises Israel and joins the Abraham Accords, adding a condition not mentioned when the agreement was signed.
Dont cultivate paddy this kharif, Andhra Pradesh tells Krishna delta farmers amid water crunch
Engineer-in-Chief K. Narasimha Murthy said storage in Srisailam and Nagarjuna Sagar had fallen to critically low levels, and that Pattiseema pumping may last only 60 to 70 days this season against 100 to 120 days earlier; farmers have been advised to switch to dry crops
HPCL, BPCL have secured crude supplies till August, scouting for September
The two refiners posted a net loss in the first quarter of the current financial year - their first since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Day to night: Why these cafes in Bengaluru are doubling up as cocktail bars after dark
Restaurants in Bengaluru are combining the vibe of a cafe and a bar, to offer something for everyone. We look at this new industry trend, and why it makes sense financially and creatively
Wanted Waris Punjab De member, U.S. national nabbed while entering India from Nepal
The accused were identified as Vikramjit Singh, who is wanted in connection with a 2023 case registered in Punjab, and U.S. national Manveer Singh, a native of Punjab
Cricket Australia open to hosting Ashes Test in India
England are scheduled to host the Ashes next year
Chandigarh University's 102 B.Ed. Graduates Secure Teaching Positions at Prestigious Schools Across 12 States
Raydean Enterprises Limited Raises 200 Crores Through Combined Equity and Debt Fundraise
Raydean Enterprises Limited Raises 200 Crores Through Combined Equity and Debt Fundraise
Bhavna Iyers rendition stayed true to her gurus style
The vocalist impressed with her elaborate raga essays and swara passages
Kerala power crisis: State may face deficit in coming months too
According to Load Generation Balance Report of Central Electricity Authority, Kerala can expect gaps in peak demand and availability from August through October this year and January through March 2027
T.N. Chief Minister Vijays office to move to 10th floor of Namakkal Kavignar Maaligai soon
Space constraints are cited as the primary reason for the shift

