Congress Launches Students Echo Campaign Amid Concerns Over Examination System
Ahmedabad, June 26: The Congress Party launched its nationwide campaign, Students Echo, in Ahmedabad on Thursday. They claimed that repeated irregularities and flaws in the countrys examination system are jeopardizing the future of students across India. This 40-day campaign will take place in 28 major cities. Its goal is to unite students, job seekers, and ... Read more Congress Launches Students Echo Campaign Amid Concerns Over Examination System
No US Deal Sans Benefits: Piyush Goyal
The commerce ministry, in an official statement, said that ecognising the growing significance of the IndiaUS economic partnership amid evolving global trade dynamics, both sides reiterated their shared goal of expanding bilateral trade, fostering innovation, and building resilient, trusted supply chains.
Four days of rainfall cuts June deficit from 74.5% to 47%
NT Reporter Panaji Four days of sustained monsoon rainfall have improved Goas rainfall position, with the state moving out of the large deficient category and into the deficient category for the first time since a prolonged dry spell began earlier this month. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said Goas seasonal rainfall deficit narrowed from 74.5 []
Sixty cadets join tree plantation campaign
NT KURIOCITY The Ex-NCC Cadets Association Goa, in association with the Junior Division Army Wing NCC unit of Janata High School, Mapusa, organised a tree plantation drive as part of activities celebrating World Environment Day. Councillor of Mapusa Municipal Council Ward No. 7, Dr Tarak Arolkar, was the chief guest. Headmaster of the school, Dutta []
DMC students experience Himalayan snow trek
NT KURIOCITY Students from Dnyanprassarak Mandals College and Research Centre (DMC), Assagao, participated in the Roli Kholi Snow Trek in Himachal Pradesh, organised by the Youth Hostels Association of India (YHAI) and sponsored by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Goa. The trek was conducted from May 15 to 27 as part []
Centre ready to fund minority infra projects in Goa: Rijiju
Says isolated incidents must not disrupt spirit of harmony Margao: During his visit to South Goa on Thursday, Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju pledged extensive central support to upgrade infrastructure and drive entrepreneurship in areas of Goa with significant minority populations. Interacting with beneficiaries of the National Minorities Development and Finance Corporation (NMDFC), the []
Soccer: Neymar returns for Brazil but there's a new Junior in town
Neymar made a comeback for Brazil after a long layoff, playing 20 minutes in their 3-0 World Cup win over Scotland. While his star has dimmed, he remains a key figure. Vinicius Junior, however, stole the show with two goals, showcasing Brazil's evolving attacking prowess. Coach Ancelotti's decision to include Neymar is seen as adding depth rather than relying on him as the sole star.
India outlines energy storage, nuclear targets at BRICS meet
BRICS nations are prioritizing energy security, advocating for diverse and stable energy systems. Ministers met in New Delhi to boost cooperation across fossil fuels, renewables, hydrogen, and storage. India highlighted its ambitious energy storage and nuclear power goals, alongside achievements in ethanol blending and international solar initiatives. The bloc also emphasized affordable financing and research for sustainable development.
Khushbu's daughter Avantika marries Shravan; celebs attend
Actress-politician Khushbu Sundar and filmmaker Sundar C's elder daughter, Avantika Sundar, married Shravan Sreenivasan in a grand wedding ceremony held at a luxury resort in Goa. The celebrations turned into a star-studded affair, drawing several prominent names from the Tamil, Telugu and Hindi film industries. Among the high-profile guests were Chiranjeevi, Nagarjuna, Venkatesh and Amala Akkineni. Actors Trisha Krishnan, Jackie Shroff and Anil Kapoor were also spotted attending the festivities.
Football shows a changing America, its tastes shaped by migration
Football's surge in the US is fueled by immigration, Premier League's TV appeal, and women's success. The FIFA World Cup 2026 blends nationalism and globalization, with a global labor market for players. Data reveals surprising insights, like clean sheets being more valuable than goals. While spontaneous genius remains, physical demands on players have intensified. Cricket's potential adoption in the US is linked to baseball's popularity and South Asian immigration.
Should you invest in last years top mutual fund? Experts warn against this common mistake
Experts caution against chasing performance after fund rankings, as returns are influenced by market conditions. Instead, investors should focus on long-term goals and avoid frequent switches, which can lead to missed opportunities and additional costs.
OFFSIDE: Too many goals at World Cup 2026? Wait for the knockout rounds
Who is responsible for so many goals in this World Cup? The ball? Bad defending? Hydration breaks? Read this and more in today's OFFSIDE.
Many professionals in their 40s discover that their biggest financial mistakes were not bad investments, but delayed decisions. By this stage, income is often at its peak, but competing obligations can make it easy to feel wealthy even as you fall behind on long-term goals.
Moroccos Coach Celebrates Teams Progress to FIFA World Cup Round of 32
Atlanta, June 25: Moroccos head coach, Mohammed Ouaahbi, expressed his delight after his team secured a spot in the Round of 32 at the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a 4-2 victory over Haiti. This win marks a significant achievement, as it is the first time the North African nation has scored four goals in ... Read more Moroccos Coach Celebrates Teams Progress to FIFA World Cup Round of 32
Jupiter International Ltd invests Rs 550 cr in new TOPCon solar cell facility in Himachal's Baddi
Jupiter International Ltd has boosted its solar cell manufacturing capacity to 3.25 GW with a new 1.25 GW TOPCon unit in Himachal Pradesh, investing Rs 550 crore. This move signifies a shift towards advanced, high-efficiency solar technologies. The company's CEO highlighted this as a key step in their technology journey, paving the way for future expansions and supporting India's clean energy goals.
Bengal govt's goals may suffer if bureaucracy goes unchecked: rebel TMC MLA Sabina Yeasmin
A Trinamool Congress MLA has called for greater scrutiny of government officials, arguing that administrative hurdles often impede the success of welfare programs. Sabina Yeasmin stated that while elected representatives should be held accountable for wrongdoing, the bureaucracy also bears significant responsibility for service delivery failures. She urged the West Bengal government to monitor officials closely to ensure its objectives are met and prevent future setbacks.
FIFA WC: How the best eight third-placed teams will be determined Explained
The FIFA World Cup 2026's group stage is nearing its end, with 13 teams already securing spots in the Round of 32. A thrilling race is underway for the eight best third-placed teams to also advance. FIFA's ranking system, prioritising points, goal difference, goals scored, conduct, and FIFA rankings, will determine these crucial qualifiers. Several high-stakes matches remain, promising to finalise the knockout picture by Sunday morning.
Mexico's Ochoa joins Ronaldo and Messi, becomes first goalkeeper in history to ...
The Mexico goalkeeper reached the milestone during his side's final Group A match against the Czech Republic in Mexico City on Wednesday.
Mexican Fans Risk Fresh FIFA Fines With Return Of Controversial Homophobic Slur
The slur, which literally means male prostitute in Spanish, could be heard at the Azteca stadium toward the end of the first half when Czech goalkeeper Matej Kovar took a goal kick.
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, has strengthened its global standing in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2026, achieving significant improvements across multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while retaining its overall 101-200 global band. MAHE secured the No. 1 global rank for SDG 5 - Gender Equality The latest rankings recognise MAHE’s commitment to progressing excellence in research, teaching, outreach, and institutional stewardship aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. In a landmark achievement, MAHE secured the No. 1 global rank for SDG 5 - Gender Equality, making an extraordinary leap from Rank 11 in the previous edition. MAHE also recorded an impressive Rank 5 globally for SDG 3 - Good Health & Well-being, improving significantly from Rank 74 in 2025. MAHE continued its upward trajectory in other key areas, attaining Rank 23 for SDG 4 - Quality Education, up from Rank 43, and making remarkable progress in SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals, where it moved from the 601-800 band to Rank 93 globally. The rankings reflect MAHE’s strategic focus on promoting an inclusive academic environment, endorsing gender equity, delivering quality education, advancing healthcare innovation, and building impactful global partnerships that contribute to sustainable development. Speaking on the achievement, Dr Sharath K. Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE , said, " MAHE’s performance in the THE Impact Rankings 2026 is a testament to our unwavering commitment to creating meaningful societal impact through education, research, healthcare, and community engagement. Securing the No. 1 global rank for Gender Equality and achieving top-five status in Good Health & Well-being reflect the collective efforts of our faculty, researchers, students, healthcare professionals, and partners. Dr Christopher Sudhakar, Director Quality, MAHE, said, "MAHE’s outstanding performance in the THE Impact Rankings 2026 reflects a deeply embedded culture of quality, accountability, and continuous improvement across the institution. Achieving the No. 1 global rank for SDG 5 and significant advancements in SDGs 3, 4, and 17 demonstrate that our quality assurance framework extends beyond academic excellence to creating measurable societal impac t.” By enhancing collaboration, broadening access to quality education, promoting fairness in opportunities, and progressing in healthcare and community outreach initiatives, MAHE continues to make a significant contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. At the same time, it strengthens its status as a top global institution dedicated to positive social change. About Manipal Academy of Higher Education Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University. MAHE offers over 400 specialisations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025 rankings, MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and enriching campus life, as well as for national and multinational corporations seeking top talent.
At least 32 dead, over 700 injured after twin quakes devastate Venezuela: Delcy Rodriguez
Venezuela, June 25 : At least 32 people have been killed and more than 700 injured after two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela on Wednesday (local time), Acting President Delcy Rodriguez said, warning that the death toll is expected to rise as rescue operations continue in the worst-hit areas. In a post on X, Rodriguez said authorities had a central and essential goal: to save lives and appealed for calm as rescue efforts continue. Speaking after an emergency meeting of the National Risk Management System (SNGR) and Civil Protection System, Rodriguez said authorities were focused on saving lives and searching for survivors trapped beneath collapsed buildings and homes. We have a central and essential objective: to save lives. Our work, as authorities of the national emergency system and the civil protection system, is to rescue those people who are trapped under buildings or homes that have collapsed, Rodriguez said. The acting president said that the coastal state of La Guaira was the area that was hit hardest by the disaster, saying dozens of buildings had collapsed and that the region had effectively become a disaster zone. I must report that the state most affected by this unprecedented seismic phenomenon is La Guaira state. There are dozens of collapsed buildings, and we are currently in very arduous rescue efforts to save whatever lives God allows us to save, she said. Rodriguez called the destruction a eal tragedy and extended condolences to families who lost loved ones. We can say that La Guaira state is a true tragedy and has become a disaster zone, she said. Our message of solidarity goes out to those families who have lost loved ones, and we reiterate our condolences and our support in these hard hours, she added. The acting president said Venezuela was receiving international assistance, with rescue teams expected to arrive in the coming hours and days. She thanked US President Donald Trump and his administration for maintaining contact with Venezuelan authorities and offering support. I want to thank President Donald Trump and his government, which has been in permanent contact with the Venezuelan government and all our authorities, providing support and solidarity. In the first few hours, we will be receiving rescuers, Rodriguez said. She said rescue brigades would also be arriving from the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Mexico and Qatar following conversations with their respective governments. Rodriguez added that offers of humanitarian aid had also been received from China, while Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and several Caribbean nations had pledged support. Providing the latest casualty figures, Rodriguez said, At this time we have reports of 32 deaths, not yet counting the figures that La Guaira state may yield, and more than 700 injured who we have been receiving in emergency departments at both public hospitals and private health centres. The government has suspended classes and non-essential activities nationwide, while hotels and shelters have been opened for residents whose homes were destroyed or severely damaged. I ask you to act in national unity, with calm, and to know that together we will overcome this tragedy. A tragedy that today brings mourning to many Venezuelan families, but Venezuela is also receiving the love of the peoples of the world, she said. (ANI)
Saudi Arabia's Jeddah Tower has surpassed 100 floors, inching closer to its goal of becoming the world's tallest building at over 1,000 metres. Resuming construction after a halt, the skyscraper, designed by Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, is slated for a 2028 completion. This ambitious project anchors Jeddah Economic City, a vast mixed-use development aiming to redefine urban living and boost the region's luxury real estate market.
Inside Abhay Deols Glass House in Goa
Bollywood actor Abhay Deol has opened the doors to his serene Goan glass mansion, a sanctuary designed with minimalistic aesthetics and a deep connection to nature. Embracing a 'live life like you want' philosophy, Deol's home in Assagao prioritizes clean air and peaceful surroundings, featuring high ceilings, earthy tones, and expansive glass windows that blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Top 10 mutual funds to invest through SIP with investment horizon of 5 years. Check details
Top SIP mutual fund performers over five years show strong wealth creation potential, with gold, infrastructure, midcap, and smallcap funds delivering XIRR up to 53%. However, investment decisions should consider risk profile, horizon, and financial goals.
Planning a Rs 7 crore corpus in 12 years? Expert recommends active funds over index funds
An investor's query about active versus passive funds for long-term goals received expert advice. While index funds offer low costs, active management in India presents opportunities for outperformance due to information inefficiencies. A 10% annual SIP step-up is recommended to reach a Rs 7 crore corpus. The expert suggested replacing an index fund with a focused actively managed fund for better diversification and potential returns.
6 high-protein vegetarian meals for fitness goals
Who Is Thapelo Maseko? The Forward Who Sent South Africa Into Their First Ever World Cup Knockouts
They lost their opener, were written off by almost everyone, and needed a result against South Korea just to stay alive. Thapelo Maseko scored the goal that sent South Africa into the World Cup knockout stage for the first time ever.
Alvinia De Souza, a former corporate professional, has revolutionized chocolate-making in India by establishing a 10-acre organic cacao farm in Dodamarg. After years of training in Switzerland, she returned to India to restore a barren plot, employing permaculture and ecological restoration techniques. Her farm now yields premium single-origin chocolate, crafted into artisanal bars and pastries sold at her Goa cafe, DoD Atelier, showcasing a true farm-to-table journey.
Guillermo Ochoa Retires From Professional Football With Huge Record In Final Appearance
Mexico goalkeeper Memo Ochoa officially retired from professional football after scripting a massive record on Thursday.
The Future of Angioplasty: Precision Calcium Management and Metal-Less Therapies
Coronary Artery Disease continues to be one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with India witnessing a particularly alarming rise in the disease, changing lifestyles, increasing stress levels, unhealthy dietary habits, smoking, diabetes, hypertension, and lack of physical activity have contributed significantly to the growing burden of heart disease across all age groups. Coronary Artery Disease is no longer a condition affecting only the elderly, younger individuals are increasingly presenting with complex coronary blockages, making early detection and timely treatment more critical than ever. Common warning signs such as chest pain, shortness of breath, excessive fatigue, dizziness, and reduced exercise tolerance should never be ignored, as prompt medical attention can significantly improve outcomes. The field of interventional cardiology has witnessed remarkable advancements over the past decade, enabling physicians to treat coronary blockages with greater precision, safety, and long-term effectiveness. Modern angioplasty techniques now include ultra-thin strut Drug-Eluting Stents (DES), specialized bifurcation stents for complex vessel anatomy, and long tapered stents designed to address extensive coronary lesions while maintaining optimal blood flow. Beyond conventional stenting, metal-less angioplasty approaches are emerging as promising treatment options in the management of coronary artery disease. BioResorbable Scaffolds provide temporary vessel support before gradually dissolving over time, while Drug-Coated Balloons deliver anti-proliferative medication directly to the vessel wall without requiring a permanent implant. These innovations are particularly valuable in selected patient populations and align with the broader goal of preserving the natural physiology of the artery. Dr. Kishore K S, Senior Interventional Cardiologist, Sagar Hospitals, Bengaluru Dr. Kishore K S , Senior Interventional Cardiologist, Sagar Hospitals, Bengaluru , said, "The philosophy of 'Leave Nothing Behind' is transforming the future of coronary interventions. While Drug-Eluting Stents (DES) continue to play a crucial role in treating complex coronary artery disease, newer treatment modalities such as BioResorbable Scaffolds (BRS) and Drug-Coated Balloons (DCB) are expanding our therapeutic options. These technologies allow us to tailor treatment based on the patient's condition while reducing the amount of permanent metallic implants within the coronary arteries. The ability to restore vessel function while potentially leaving nothing behind represents a significant step forward in patient-centric cardiac care." Another critical challenge in contemporary angioplasty is the management of heavily calcified coronary lesions, which can make procedures technically demanding and impact treatment outcomes. Advances in calcium modification technologies are helping physicians prepare these difficult lesions more effectively before stent implantation. Dr. Anand R. Shenoy, Consultant - Interventional Cardiologist, Manipal Hospitals, Bengaluru Dr. Anand R. Shenoy , Consultanat - Interventional Cardiologist, Manipal Hospitals, Bengaluru , said, "Coronary artery calcification remains one of the most challenging aspects of angioplasty. Adequate calcium management is essential to ensure optimal stent expansion and long-term procedural success. Today, advanced lesion preparation techniques and calcium modification technologies such as specialty balloons, atherectomy systems, and intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) enable us to treat complex calcified blockages more effectively than ever before. By addressing calcium appropriately before intervention, we can improve procedural outcomes, reduce complications, and ultimately enhance the quality of care delivered to patients with complex coronary artery disease." While technological innovations continue to improve treatment outcomes, prevention remains the first line of defense against coronary artery disease. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, tobacco cessation, stress management, and routine health screenings can significantly reduce cardiovascular risk. With the availability of advanced angioplasty solutions and increasing awareness about heart health, cardiologists believe that patients diagnosed with coronary artery disease today have access to safer, more personalized, and highly effective treatment options than ever before.
3 Goals, 2 Assists In 69 Minutes: The Curious Case Of Germany's World Cup 'Super-Sub'
Deniz Undav has three goals and two assists in 69 minutes at the World Cup, averaging a goal contribution every 13.8 minutes for a rate topping Lionel Messi (37.4), Kylian Mbapp (48.8) and Erling Haaland (51.2).
Brazil beat Scotland 3-0 to advance in FIFA World Cup
Miami: Brazil strolled into the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Scotland at Miami Stadium. The game featured a masterclass from Vinicius Junior, another goal from Matheus Cunha and the long-awaited return of Neymar in the World Cup. With two first-half goals, Vinicius Junior led the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
FIFA World Cup 2026: Morocco edge spirited Haiti 4-2 to seal round of 32 spot
FIFA World Cup match: Morocco staged a dramatic comeback to defeat Haiti 4-2 in a thrilling World Cup encounter, securing their spot in the Round of 32. Despite falling behind twice, Morocco equalized before halftime and then sealed the victory with two second-half goals. Haiti, playing their first World Cup in 52 years, exited with a spirited performance.
Switzerland beat Canada 2-1, top group B in FIFA World Cup
Vancouver: Switzerland put a damper on Canadas World Cup party in Vancouver. The Swiss got goals from Rubn Vargas and Johan Manzambi to beat Canada 2-1 on Wednesday and win Group B. Now Switzerland will get a week of rest before returning to the same city to face one of the eight best third-place finishers Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
FIFA 2026: South Africa stun South Korea to make World Cup history
South Africa achieved a historic World Cup knockout stage berth, stunning South Korea 1-0. Despite an initial setback, the Bafana Bafana secured their advancement with Thapelo Maseko's decisive second-half goal. This remarkable turnaround, fueled by grit and determination, sets them up for a clash with co-hosts Canada in the next round. Mexico topped the group undefeated.
England stumbled to a goalless draw against Ghana, while Croatia kept their knockout dreams alive with a crucial 1-0 win over Panama. Colombia secured their Round of 32 spot with a victory over DR Congo. Elsewhere, Switzerland topped their group, Bosnia and Herzegovina reignited their hopes, Morocco advanced, and Brazil dominated Scotland to lead their group.
England stumbled to a goalless draw against Ghana, while Croatia kept their knockout dreams alive with a crucial 1-0 win over Panama. Colombia secured their Round of 32 spot with a victory over DR Congo. Elsewhere, Switzerland topped their group, Bosnia and Herzegovina reignited their hopes, Morocco advanced, and Brazil dominated Scotland to lead their group.
15-year-old student builds energy-efficient water purifier startup
Muhammad Salman Shah, 15, is the founder of Save Water AquaSol, a startup currently in pre-incubation at NewGen IEDC, University of Kashmir. Srinagar, Jun 24: A Class 9 student from Kashmir is developing a water-treatment startup that aims to purify water from any source while using significantly less energy than conventional systems. Muhammad Salman Shah, 15, is the founder of Save Water AquaSol, a startup currently in pre-incubation at NewGen IEDC, University of Kashmir. The system is being designed to be source-insensitive. It is being built to treat water regardless of where it comes from, Salman told Rising Kashmir. The energy consumed should be less than a household's monthly electricity consumption, but still enough to purify water for multiple villages at the same time. Dr Irfana Rashid, Head of NewGen IEDC at the University of Kashmir, described what the startup is working toward. AquaSol is addressing some of the key limitations of conventional purification systems, she told Rising Kashmir. Its core approach combines a modular low-pressure design with an integrated purification process, aiming for high water recovery of up to 90 per cent while consuming significantly less energy than traditional RO systems. The 90 per cent figure is a design target. The prototype is stillbeing developed,and independent testing hasyet to beconducted. Dr Rashid said the modular architecture is also being designed with practical deployment in mind. The design is intended to simplify maintenance, reduce downtime, and allow capacity expansion without major redesign, she said, adding that the goal is to make it suitable for schools, rural communities, disaster-relief operations, and institutional users. On operating costs, she said the combination of lower power consumption, reduced reject water, and simplified servicing is expected to translate into lower lifecycle operating costs compared to existing systems. AquaSol is funded by STPI Noida through NewGen IEDC, University of Kashmir. The startup was selected under Electropreneur Park 2.0, a flagship initiative of the Software Technology Parks of India, an autonomous society under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India. The selection was confirmed in a letter signed by Vandana Srivastava, Director and CEO of Electropreneur Park, STPI Noida. Dr Rashid said the support goes beyond funding. The support of NewGen IEDC in association with STPI under Electropreneur Park 2.0 is crucial in helping the founder move from engineering design to prototype development, industry outreach, pilot deployments, and commercialisation, she said. We are providing incubation support, mentorship, innovation infrastructure, and access to funding and industry networks. Salman, who is also the author of two books, a selected member of the John Locke Institute, and an accredited representative of the United Nations Major Group for Children and Youth for the UNESCAP Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development, said the problem he is trying to solve has always been concrete. It has to work in a village that does not have infrastructure. It has to work in an emergency, he said. If it requires a truck and a generator, it does not solve the problem. Salman is in Class 9, and the prototype is still being built. But Save Water AquaSol has moved past the stage of being just a school project. It is now in a government-backed facility, with institutional support around it, working toward a device that could one day reach the communities it was designed for.
2-day international conference The Sacred Journey to Shri Amarnath Ji commences at Anantnag
Anantnag, Jun 24: First of its kind, a two-day International Conference on the theme The Sacred Journey to Shri Amarnath Ji: A Multi-Dimensional Perspective commenced on Wednesday at Government College for Women (GCW), Anantnag. The conference, being organised by District Administration in collaboration with the host college, has brought together administrators, faculty from reputed institutions and organisations, eminent academicians, researchers, scholars, students, officials and civil society members. The inaugural session was attended by Deputy Commissioner(DC), Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat (Patron of the Conference), Principal GCW, Prof Khalida Hassan (Co-patron of the Conference), Prof Monowar Alam Khalid (Professor Environmental Science and Dean Students Welfare, Integral University Lucknow), Prof Himanshu Roy (Professor Centre for Political Studies, JNU), Prof Kapil Kumar (Former Chair Professor, Centre for Freedom Struggle and Diaspora Studies), Prof Farooq Ahmad Malik, GDCW (Organising Secretary), faculty of various Govt Degree Colleges, academicians, researchers, scholars, students and civil society members. Three sessions were held on first day during which the speakers deliberated upon various aspects of the revered Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY). They highlighted the historical, cultural and spiritual significance of the Annual Himalayan Pilgrimage besides elaborating it's administrative, socioeconomic and ecological dimensions. In her welcome address, Principal of the College highlighted the importance of academic discussions on heritage, traditions and the overall significance of the annual SANJY. She said the platform will serve as a great opportunity to engage on multicultural aspects of the sacred Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner underlined the importance of preserving the cultural and spiritual legacy associated with Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. He said that syncretic uniqueness of this annual pilgrimage is reflected from the fact that the service providers historically associated with the Yatra are often from different faith than that of visiting devotees.The local community has always been at forefront and extended warm hospitality to the pilgrims making their sacred journey to the Holy Cave easy, comfortable and enriching', he remarked. Dr. Bilal talked about the immense contribution the annual pilgrimage has in keeping alive the multifaith and pluralistic traditions of Kashmir adding the same perfectly reflect the plural and inclusive ethos of our great nation. The place, aptly called Peer Waer, has long stood as a melting pot of different faiths and a cradle of cultural evolution where Shaivism, Sufism and other beliefs have evolved and thrived, he noted. He informed the audience that this year several key measures have been taken for sustainable and greener Yatra and the district administration is committed to ensure it is conducted in a safe, seamless and pilgrim friendly manner. Professor Kapil Verma while speaking on the occasion said that people of Kashmir have old age ethical and social connection with the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, emphasising the cultural pluralism and syncretic values of the place. He said that hospitality of Kashmir is well known to the world. He termed the local people as part and parcel of the sacred pilgrimage who always provide the necessary service and cooperation during the entire Yatra. He further highlighted the economic impact of the pilgrimage tourism besides the diversity of the nation. During the inaugural session, Prof Monowar Alam Khalid delivered a special address on Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra: Ecological Challenges and Suggested Solutions. He called for complimenting the ecological wisdom with suitable technological interventions so the goal of a sustainable Yatra on the fragile Himalayan region is realised. Prof Khalid further said that management decisions should be guided by ecological thresholds and scientific assessment of maximum carrying capacity keeping in view pilgrim numbers, camp strength, waste handling capacity, resource availability and emergency response mechanisms. He advocated for zero waste techniques, green energy transition, protection of resources and biodiversity, nature based solutions, involvement of local community, linking of Yatra with Sustainable Development Goals so that the sacred pilgrimage becomes a global model of sustainable religious tourism. In his keynote address on Multiculturalism in India: A Historical Trajectory, Prof. Himanshu Roy said that multiple cultures have existed in India for centuries. He shared his valuable insights on the historical context of SANJY, enlightening the participants about the evolution of the spiritual journey. Organising Secretary, Prof. Farooq Ahmad Malik gave an overview of the conference and emphasised the role of research and scholarly dialogue in understanding the pilgrimage from diverse perspectives. The technical sessions witnessed paper presentations and detailed discussions by scholars and experts on themes including social, cultural and spiritual aspects of the Yatra, fostering peace and cultural resilience, philosophy of pilgrimage and ecological concerns. The event aims to provide a platform for meaningful academic exchange and a comprehensive understanding of the sacred pilgrimage through multidisc iplinary perspectives.
Vincius Jnior starred as Brazil beat Scotland 3-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026, scoring twice to complete a historic group-stage record of goals in all three matches. The Real Madrid forward moved to four tournament goals, joined Brazils elite World Cup scorers list, and strengthened his Golden Boot challenge as the Seleo topped Group C unbeaten.
Brazil Dominates Scotland 3-0, Secures Spot in FIFA World Cup Knockout Stage
Miami, June 25: Brazil showcased a brilliant performance by defeating Scotland 3-0, securing their place in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The match, held at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, saw star player Vinicius Junior score two goals, while Matheus Cunha added one more. Neymar made a long-awaited return to ... Read more Brazil Dominates Scotland 3-0, Secures Spot in FIFA World Cup Knockout Stage
UN Report Reveals 655 Million People Still Lack Electricity Worldwide
New Delhi, June 25: According to the latest report from the United Nations, approximately 655 million people globally, which constitutes 8% of the worlds population, live without electricity. The majority of these individuals reside in sub-Saharan Africa. Additionally, the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7: Energy Progress Report, released on Wednesday (local time), reveals that 1.8 ... Read more UN Report Reveals 655 Million People Still Lack Electricity Worldwide
When Pilgrimage Turns Perilous
Kathua crash exposes our chronic contempt for road safety At least 23 pilgrims set out for the Sukrala Mata shrine seeking blessings and solace. They ended up in a hospital ward, two of them battling for life after their minibus plunged into a gorge in Kathuas Simbli area. Officials say the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle. That familiar phrase, repeated after every hill-road tragedy, now rings less like an explanation and more like an alibi for a system that refuses to learn. We are told that police, civil administration and locals mounted a swift rescue, that the injured were shifted to the hospital and are being closely monitored by doctors. There is no doubt that first responders did what they could in the face of chaos and carnage. But rescue is not a substitute for responsibility. The real question is why a vehicle carrying pilgrims on a notoriously treacherous stretch could so easily roll into a gorge in the first place. In Jammu and Kashmirs hill districts, road accidents have become a parallel epidemic. Overloaded vehicles, under-maintained roads, weak enforcement and casual licensing combine into a deadly cocktail. Each time a bus skids off a mountain bend or a taxi pierces a roadside barrier, officialdom reacts with the same ritual: a probe is ordered, blame is vaguely apportioned to rash driving or mechanical failure, and the file is quietly buried under the next disaster. Pilgrimage traffic demands higher, not lower, standards of safety. These are not routine commuters; they are often elderly devotees, families, and first-time travellers unfamiliar with the terrain. Yet we still see rickety minibuses pressed into service, safety checks reduced to a formality and hill-road engineering left decades behind basic norms. Guardrails, crash barriers, warning signage, and regular audits of accident-prone spots should have been non-negotiable by now. They are not. The Kathua accident must not be allowed to dissolve into the usual fog of platitudes. The investigation announced by police has to move beyond the convenient scapegoat of an errant driver and examine uncomfortable truths: Was the vehicle roadworthy? Was it overloaded? Is the Simbli stretch properly engineered and maintained? How many previous accidents have occurred there, and what, if anything, was done afterwards? The administration must publish these answers, time-bound and transparent, and couple them with enforceable measures: mandatory fitness checks before pilgrimage seasons, GPS and speed monitoring on hill routes, stricter caps on passenger loads, and criminal liability for officials who rubber-stamp unsafe operations. If a journey to a shrine becomes a gamble with death, it is not fate at work; it is failure. The pilgrims of Kathua deserve more than sympathy; they deserve a state that treats road safety as a right, not an afterthought.
Academic Freedom: Reclaiming India's Civilizational Legacy of Knowledge
Academic freedom is not a Western import or a modern political slogan. It is an ancient Indian value BIJU DHARMAPALAN In India, whenever the issue of academic freedom comes up, the conversation is invariably through a modern political prism. However, intellectual freedom has a rich heritage in Indian civilisation. It has been a tradition in India, dating back long before the dawn of modern universities in Europe, to encourage cultures of inquiry, debate, and dissent, in the Vedic tradition, the Buddhist knowledge centres of monastic schools, and the many philosophical schools. This is the heritage we need to revive and consolidate to achieve our goal of becoming a knowledge power in the 21st century. Academic freedom in India has been reported to be in serious jeopardy in recent years in the international arena. Though the question of rankings and indices can be argued, the bigger question is, can a country be innovative, prosperous and scientifically advanced without giving the scholars freedom to question, challenge and explore? The Vedic Tradition: Knowledge Through Questioning Contrary to the popular notion that ancient learning was mere rote memorisation and obedience, Vedic education was all about questioning. The Upanishads are conversations in the form of questioning. Pupils questioned teachers, and questions were put to sages; the truths were not decreed, but rather were challenged and debated. Perhaps one of the earliest examples of intellectual courage appears in the Katha Upanishad, where Nachiketa meets Yama. A young boy who doesn't accept easy answers and is constantly asking questions about life and death. Similarly, Gargi Vachaknavi, in the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, challenged intellectual authority (of the sage Yajnavalkya) publicly. The Rig Veda contains an attitude of inquiry. The famous Nasadiya Sukta does not provide definitive answers to the creation issue but acknowledges its uncertainty. Such modesty regarding knowledge is characteristic of a confident civilisation. The Buddhist Contribution: Freedom as a Path to Truth Another strong case for academic freedom is presented in the teachings of the Buddha. Lord Buddha in the Kalama Sutta taught that his followers should never take anything on faith just because it is found in scripture, or tradition, or the words of someone. Rather, the individual was asked to look for evidence and use reason to decide for himself whether to accept any claim. This is based on the same principle as contemporary scientific practice. Science advances because every idea remains open to scrutiny. Every theory can be challenged. Every hypothesis must survive criticism. Academic freedom is therefore not a political luxury; it is the operating system of scientific progress. The Buddhist universities that flourished across ancient India institutionalised this spirit of inquiry. Debate was not considered a threat. It was considered a method of learning. Why Academic Freedom is important for the future of India. India is now looking to be a leader in Artificial Intelligence, Biotechnology, Quantum Computing, Space Science, Renewable Energy and Advanced Manufacturing. Such dreams need funding and infrastructure, but much more. It's hard to get innovation when people are afraid to challenge the status quo. Some of the largest scientific achievements ever made, including the discovery of DNA, Einstein's theory of relativity, and the invention of modern computers, were the result of intellectual freedom. The recent studies increasingly demonstrate a positive link between academic freedom and innovation. Nations that enjoy greater academic freedom have higher patent output, better research, and stronger technological development. Evidence indicates that greater academic freedoms lead to meaningful increases in the quantity and quality of innovations produced. But it is important to understand that if India is to become a developed nation by 2047, it must recognise that academic freedom is a key driver of it. Institutional Autonomy: The Foundation of Academic Freedom The recent Academic Freedom Index report offers an important insight that deserves particular attention in India. According to the authors, the autonomy of academic institutions is one of the strongest determinants of the freedom enjoyed by individual researchers. When institutional autonomy is reduced, universities and scholars are subjected to more and more external pressures, political, ideological, administrative and economic, the report says. Academic freedom is not only a matter for courageous scholars; it is also a matter of the university's independence to decide what is taught, researched, and debated. Several countries that once had relatively high levels of academic freedom, such as Hungary, India and Trkiye, have seen their academic autonomy eroded over time due to various political, legal and administrative measures. This trend is not only prevalent in developing nations but also in developed ones. In recent years, institutional autonomy has also declined sharply in the USA, and it is a cause for concern among scholars around the world. This finding is of great importance for a nation like India. The ancient seats of learning in the country, such as Nalanda, Vikramshila, and Takshashila, prospered due to their relative intellectual freedom. They were run by kings and patrons, but rarely dictated the content of scholarship. There was a clash of philosophies among teachers, a challenge to dogma among students, and the development of knowledge occurred without administrators' control. Without autonomy, a university can't be a real centre of innovation. Scientists who are worried about repercussions within their institutions may be reluctant to pursue unusual ideas, controversial research or interdisciplinary research. Over time, this prudence leads to a lack of creativity and suppresses the innovative thinking needed to address complex problems such as climate change, public health, AI, and sustainable development. Preserving the autonomy of universities should be seen not only as an administrative problem but also as a developmental issue for India to become a global leader in knowledge by 2047. The Cost of Restricting Intellectual Inquiry When universities become overly dependent on political, bureaucratic, or ideological control, several consequences follow. First, talented scholars migrate elsewhere. Brain drain is often not merely a matter of salary; it is a search for intellectual space. Second, research becomes risk-averse. Scholars avoid controversial or unconventional topics, even when those topics may yield transformative discoveries. Third, universities lose their ability to act as independent centres of knowledge generation and become mere teaching institutions. Fourth, society loses an important mechanism for self-correction. Universities help nations identify emerging challenges, evaluate policies, and generate evidence-based solutions. Without academic freedom, institutions produce compliance rather than creativity. The National Education Policy 2020 has rightly envisioned multidisciplinary Universities, research excellence and global competitiveness. But this can only be achieved if institutions are truly independent and scholars are free to conduct independent research. Reclaiming India's Civilizational Confidence Indian traditions of knowledge have never been uniform. They have flourished based on dialogue, debate and diversity. Philosophical discussions in the Upanishadic era and the scholarly exchanges at Nalanda, India's greatest university, were all the result of a free exchange of ideas. The country became a beacon of learning not because everyone thought alike, but because different thinkers were allowed to disagree. As India prepares for its centenary of independence in 2047, the challenge is not merely to build more universities. It is to build universities worthy of India's civilizational heritage. The path to becoming a global knowledge leader does not lie in controlling ideas. It lies in creating conditions where ideas can flourish. Academic freedom is therefore not a Western import or a modern political slogan. It is an ancient Indian value. Reclaiming it may be one of the most important investments India can make in its future prosperity. (The Author is the Dean -Academic Affairs, Garden City University, Bengaluru and an adjunct faculty at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bangalore, E-mail: bijudharmapalan@gmail.com )
Bosnia and Herzegovina Secures Knockout Stage Spot with 3-1 Victory Over Qatar
New Delhi, June 25: In a thrilling match at the FIFA World Cup 2026, Bosnia and Herzegovina clinched a spot in the Round of 32 by defeating Qatar 3-1. The game, part of Group B, showcased Bosnia and Herzegovinas dominance throughout. The first goal came from 18-year-old Kerim Alajbegovic, who struck a stunning shot from ... Read more Bosnia and Herzegovina Secures Knockout Stage Spot with 3-1 Victory Over Qatar
Morocco fight back twice to knock out Haiti and reach knockout stage
Morocco staged a dramatic comeback, twice trailing Haiti before securing a thrilling 4-2 victory to advance to the FIFA World Cup round of 32. Substitutes Soufiane Rahimi and Gessime Yassine netted crucial late goals, sealing Morocco's place in the knockout stages. Despite the loss, Haiti made history with their first World Cup goals, pushing a favored opponent to the brink.
Neymar entered as a substitute in the 76th, making his debut after a right calf injury sidelined him for Brazils first two matches
On June 17, 2026, Donald Trump signed a peace agreement with the Islamic Republic of Iran at the Palace of Versailles. Days earlier, the same man had been presiding over a naval blockade and airstrikes on Iranian soil. The same Iran that had, for forty-seven years, been the greatest nemesis of the Great Satan was now a reconstruction partner promised $300 billion. No facts changed about Iran between February and June. What changed was the need. Identity on loan from the enemy Umberto Ecos essay Inventing the Enemy opens with a simple provocation: a community that lacks an enemy must invent one, because without an adversary it cannot know itself. The enemy is not a problem to be solved but a mirror to be looked into. We define our freedom against their tyranny, our reason against their fanaticism, our order against their chaos. The Iran-U.S. relationship was a near-perfect demonstration of this. Death to America was not a foreign-policy position; it was an identity statement for a revolution that needed an outside corruptor to justify its inside purges. American declarations of Iranian roguery served the same function in reverse, for the theocratic monster made Washington the natural leader of a civilised world. Each side rented its self-image from the others villainy. Eco notes that the method is always the same: make the enemy different, then make the difference grotesque. Ugliness does the moral work. The more inhuman the adversary, the less one needs to examine ones own conduct. Robert McNamara learned this at great cost. Lesson Number One in his late-life reckoning, drawn from the Cuban Missile Crisis, from Vietnam, from a career spent inside the machinery of American power, was devastatingly simple: empathise with your enemy. During the Cuban crisis, Kennedys circle forced itself to see the world through Khrushchevs eyes and pulled back from the edge. In Vietnam, no such effort was made. Washington never asked what Ho Chi Minhs Vietnam actually wanted or feared; it projected a cartoon of a communist aggressor, a domino-tipper, a monster, and sent half a million men to fight that projection. The result was a catastrophe. McNamaras lesson is the precise inverse of Ecos method: where Eco describes how dehumanisation is manufactured, McNamara names what it destroys. The scapegoat mechanism Rene Girard called this the scapegoat mechanism. Rivals imitate each other until they become doubles, caught in the same cycles of grievance, the same rhetoric of injury, the same logic of retaliation. As they converge, internal tensions mount. The community resolves them by converging on a single outside figure. All-against-all becomes all-against-one. The designated villain absorbs the chaos, and order, however temporary, returns. The choice of victim is arbitrary. What counts is not guilt but unanimity. Orwell understood this before Girard theorised it. In Animal Farm, Napoleon drives Snowball out with the dogs, and the farms real work begins, not the building of the windmill but the building of a villain. Every collapsed wall, every failed harvest, every act of sabotage is attributed to Snowballs invisible hand. The absent scapegoat absorbs all disorder so that the pigs need never account for any of it. This is Girards first transference in miniature: expel the figure, then load him with every failure. But Orwell adds the second movement too, the one Girard called the double transference. Farmer Jones, the original enemy, is never allowed to be forgotten. Surely you dont want Jones to come back? is the unanswerable question, the trump card deployed whenever an animal grows restless or asks too much. The pigs do not merely use the scapegoat to explain the past; they keep the enemy perpetually alive to control the future. Power feeds on the very threat it pretends to protect against. For half a century, Iran served Americas scapegoat function, and America served Irans. The arrangement was, in its way, mutually convenient and, one must say, recognisably Orwellian. The deal and its danger Now the arrangement is suspended. Girard described the double transference thus: the scapegoat, once blamed for every disorder, is credited with the peace that follows. Yesterdays monster is todays partner. We are watching that flip in real time. Neither Girard nor Eco offers much comfort here, however. The machinery that built the enemy does not dismantle itself when the paperwork is signed. It idles, looking for a new target. Already, the predictable pattern is emerging: hardliners on both sides calling the deal a betrayal, the monster-making apparatus turning inward towards those who made peace. In Iran, the new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, approved the deal with stated reservations. In Washington, critics are framing reconstruction money as a ransom paid to terrorists. The enemy is being recycled, not retired. What the peace reveals The real lesson of this moment is not that diplomacy works, though it sometimes does, but that forty-seven years of mutual demonisation were never simply a response to facts on the ground. It was an industrial process: systematic, self-serving, and now visibly reversible. The villain was real enough in the sense that real people suffered real consequences. But the figure of the enemy, the theological construction, the cartoon of pure evil, was our own work. Eco ends his essay on a quiet note: Having an enemy is important not only to define our identity but also to provide us with an obstacle against which to measure our system of values. The obstacle is temporarily removed. The question now is what both societies do with the space where the monster once stood. History suggests they will not leave it empty for long. Syed Ahfadul Mujtaba, Retired IGP, Former Member J&K Public Service Commission
Paonam Charan Singh's heroics earn AIM maiden CC Meet title
AIM, Khabam rode on Paonam Charan Singh's heroics under the bar to seal the title of the 65th Sir Churachand Singh KCSI, CBE Memorial Football Tournament this evening at Mapal Kangjeibung Courtesy of two saves produced by Charan, AIM beat Utlou FC 3 1 on penalties after the two sides remained locked at 1 1 in the regulation time Sapam Topper gave AIM a slender 1 0 lead in the first period but Utlou FC took it deep to equalise as David Yendrembam who came off the bench in the 82nd minute scored five minutes into his entry br br table align center cellpadding 5 width 610 tbody tr td table class capbox width 100 tbody tr td img width 600 src https www e pao org galleries images News Related 2026 06 AIM 20260625 jpg border 1 alt Paonam Charan Singh's heroics earn AIM maiden CC Meet title td tr tr td align center Paonam Charan Singh's heroics earn AIM maiden CC Meet title td tr tbody table td tr tbody table br br The two sides failed to find the winner in the remainder of the game and the game was eventually decided by penalties Mutum Stelin, Ngangom Peter and Saikhom Abinash all scored for AIM in the shoot out while Charan Singh denied Bihas Robidas and David Yendrembam of Utlou FC to seal the 3 1 win Only Huidrom Jotin was on target for Utlou FC in the penalty shoot out With the title victory, AIM walked away with Rs 5,00,000 richer and the gold plated trophy while Utlou FC received the runners up trophy and a cash prize of Rs 2,00,000 Top scorer of the tournament Saikhom Abinash 9 goals for AIM , man of the final match Paonam Charan Singh Goalkeeper of AIM, best defender Laishram Amit of Utlou FC, best midfielder of the final match Bishal Robidash of Utlou FC, best striker of the final match Saikhom Abinash, youngest player Jajinwar Khorong Chiru of Utlou FC 18 years old , best manager Takhellambam Ramesh of AIM, fair play team IYFC were also feted with cash and kinds Oja Benudhar Memorial Trophy for the Best Referee of the tournament meanwhile went to Joysing Monsang as Laishram Rojit bagged the Best Assistant Trophy Men's footballer of the year Chanam Akash of USA, women's footballer of the year Elangbam Panthoi, women's coach of the year Th Khunjanganbi Chanu, men's coach of the year K Donald were also honoured with trophies and cash rewards at the occasion Champions of the 2nd Premier League 2024 25 FC Raengdai, Noney and the 3rd Premier League 2025 26 SSU, Singjamei were also feted with cash prize of Rs 5,00,000 each Source The Sangai Express
FIFA World Cup: Switzerland wraps up first place in Group B with 2-1 victory over Canada
Promise David scored a late goal for Canada, which took second place in Group B behind the Swiss and earned a spot in the knockout round for the first time in its history
Switzerland down World Cup co-hosts Canada to top Group B, both progress
The goal set up a grandstand finish with a leveller for Canada certain to send them through as group winners
High Court directs legal aid to 2 mothers in child begging PIL
Panaji: After two women, claiming to be the mothers of children rescued during an anti-begging drive appeared before the High Court of Bombay at Goa seeking access to the minors, the court directed that legal aid counsel be provided to assist them. The matter arose during the hearing of the Child Begging PIL filed by []
Two fire incidents reported in North Goa within hours
Mapusa: A fire broke out at a scrapyard in Colvale on Wednesday morning, gutting plastic materials and other items stored on the premises. Personnel from the Fire and Emergency Services brought the blaze under control. A loss of approximately Rs 50,000 has been estimated. No casualties or injuries were reported. The exact cause of the []
Goa to refund Rs 43.51 crore power penalties amid protests
Panaji: Amid ongoing protests from power consumers regarding hefty electricity bills and the smart meter project, the state electricity departments Chief Electrical Engineer (CEE), Stephen Fernandes, announced on Wednesday that the department will shortly refund Rs 43.51 crore collected as load-exceeding penalties. Fernandes made the announcement shortly after a noisy protest meeting of consumers outside []
Maharashtra police bust cyber fraud ring in Goa
Amravati: Amravati Rural Police from Maharashtra have reportedly dismantled an interstate cyber fraud network operating out of a premium residential apartment complex in South Goa. During the raid, authorities arrested 12 individuals, including one woman. The suspects, who hail from Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, are accused of using bank accounts belonging to daily []
Vulnerability is the heart of good poetry
As noted performance poet, surrealist artist and author Megha Rao prepares for her first workshop in Goa on June 27, she tells NT BUZZ why she has stopped sharing her work on social media and why poetry is a misunderstood art form CHRISTINE MACHADO | NT BUZZ Megha Rao, who is originally from Kerala, first []
India, US Talks End Without A Deal
The commerce ministry said both sides reiterated their shared goal of expanding bilateral trade, fostering innovation, and building resilient, trusted supply chains.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored two goals in Portugal's 5-0 win over Uzbekistan at the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Tuesday. The goals made him the only man on the planet to score in six different FIFA World Cups - from 2006 to 2026
Every Time Norway Scores at the World Cup the City of Bergen Trembles
This curious phenomenon was documented by the seismometer at the University of Bergen, which recorded slight vibrations whenever the national team scored a goal.
Argentinas Messi-ah keeps the fire burning
In the Group-J encounter against Austria at the Dallas Stadium, the little wizard scored his 17thand 18thto become the singular holder of the record for the most goals in the World Cup
Time to Implement District and State-Level Textile Plans: Giriraj Singh
New Delhi, June 24: Union Textile Minister Giriraj Singh stated on Wednesday that it is now time to actively implement textile plans at the district and state levels. He emphasized the importance of value addition, sustainability, specialized products, and effective utilization of free trade agreements to achieve Indias textile export goals. Addressing the closing session ... Read more Time to Implement District and State-Level Textile Plans: Giriraj Singh
India B Takes Lead in Asia Cup Bridge Championship; Womens Team Reaches Semifinals
Panjim, June 24: Host nation India achieved a significant milestone on Wednesday during the 5th Asia Cup Bridge Championship 2026. The womens team secured their spot in the semifinals, set to take place this Friday at the Taj Cidade de Goa Horizon in Panjim. In another positive development for India, Team B has taken a ... Read more India B Takes Lead in Asia Cup Bridge Championship; Womens Team Reaches Semifinals
Weather tomorrow: India braces for intense weather as IMD issues a nationwide alert for Thursday. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast for coastal Karnataka, Konkan, Goa, and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, alongside widespread thunderstorms and gusty winds across North, Central, and East India. Mumbai anticipates continued monsoon spells, while heatwave conditions persist in isolated pockets of North India. Residents are urged to stay informed and exercise caution.
Lionel Messi quote of the day offers a powerful lesson about ambition, perseverance, and resilience. Dreams require effort, sacrifice, and hard work, but they also require the courage to accept setbacks as part of the journey. Success is not defined by winning every battle but by refusing to stop fighting for what matters. By embracing challenges, learning from failures, and remaining committed to our goals, we can turn our dreams into reality.
FIFA World Cup 2026: Colombia's Rodriguez creates 5 goal-scoring chances in DR Congo fixture
James Rodriguez's vintage performance powered Colombia to a 1-0 win over DR Congo, securing their spot in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32. Daniel Munoz netted the decisive goal, marking his place in Colombian World Cup history. This victory ensures Colombia's progression with a game to spare, continuing their strong tournament run.
New Zealand Captain Latham Urges Replication Of 'old-school' Grit For Series Triumph
New Zealand: New Zealand captain Tom Latham has urged his side to summon oldschool grit as they chase a Test series triumph against England, when they take the field for the third Test starting at Trent Bridge on Thursday. The Blackcaps bounced back remarkably well from the sudden retirement of talismanic batter Kane Williamson just days after the 115-run defeat in the first game at Lords by sealing an emphatic 253-run victory in the second match at The Oval to level the three-match series 1-1. Any series you step into, the end goal is to be there at the end with the results that you want. What's important for us is the work we do leading up to that point, and trying to stick to the things that we do well and stick to our style as best we can. It was a really good example of how we operated last week (which) was maybe slightly different to what the modern generation of Test cricket is, and how it's been played. It was a little bit more old-school, and trying to do things for long periods of time and keep being a threat for long periods of time. If it's required throughout this week to do something similar, then we'll obviously be looking to do that. We've got better and better throughout the series, and hopefully we can keep improving on those performances, Latham told reporters in the pre-match press conference on Wednesday. The visitors will be forced to alter their playing combination as pacer Kyle Jamieson has been rested to manage his workload following a long rehabilitation from a back stress fracture. If it's required throughout this week to do something similar, then we'll obviously be looking to do that. We've got better and better throughout the series, and hopefully we can keep improving on those performances, Latham told reporters in the pre-match press conference on Wednesday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He's certainly not injured; there's nothing there to worry about. It was always the plan for him to get through two Test matches. For Mitch to get himself ready for this tour was testament to the work that he put in. He's someone that spins the ball on many different surfaces. If we do go down that line, then we certainly know he'll be a threat throughout the five days, added Latham. Article Source: IANS
Watch: After 'successful curse' on Kane, Ghana witch doctor frees striker of spell
England's goalless World Cup draw with Ghana drew attention after Ghanaian witch doctor Nana Kwaku Bonsam claimed he had cursed Harry Kane and later lifted the hex following the striker's missed chance. The bizarre story sparked headlines, while pundits criticised England's flat performance and said they were fortunate to avoid defeat. Despite concerns, most believe Thomas Tuchel's side remains well placed ahead of its final group-stage match against Panama.
Soccer: Senegal keeper Mendy out of World Cup clash with Iraq due to knee injury
Senegal faces a significant blow in their World Cup journey as goalkeeper Edouard Mendy will miss the vital match against Iraq on Friday. Mendy, who exited Monday's 3-2 loss to Norway due to a knee injury in the 63rd minute, may have ligament damage. Ongoing tests aim to assess his injury severity and future availability for the tournament.
Tourist Drowns After Being Swept Away by Waves at Goa's Baga Beach
34-year-old visitor from Karnataka ignored warnings and was pulled into the sea by strong waves while sitting on coastal rocks.
Cristiano Ronaldo quote of the day offers a valuable lesson about resilience, growth, and perseverance. It reminds us that setbacks are not barriers to success but opportunities to learn and become stronger. Continuous improvement should be our focus, regardless of the challenges we encounter. By embracing a growth mindset, learning from failures, and remaining committed to self-improvement, we can overcome obstacles and achieve our goals. Ultimately, success is not defined by avoiding setbacks but by our determination to keep improving despite them.
Harry Kane Hits All-Time Low Against Ghana. Fans Come Up With Witch Doctor Angle
Ghanian witch doctor Nana Kwaku Bonsam found himself in focus after Harry Kane missed a late opportunity to score during England's goalless draw in their FIFA World Cup 2026 match against Ghana.
It is important to learn how to win: Marijne
Indian womens hockey coach insists there is a lot to do still; field goals remain a priority
Om Birla Expresses Concern Over Youth Deaths in Road Accidents
New Delhi, June 24: Lok Sabha Speaker and Kota-Bundi MP Om Birla held a crucial meeting at his parliamentary office on Wednesday to strengthen road safety in his constituency. The meeting included representatives from the Save Life Foundation, aiming to effectively implement the Zero Fatality District Program in the Kota-Bundi area. The goal is to ... Read more Om Birla Expresses Concern Over Youth Deaths in Road Accidents
From first goal at 17 to GOAT at 39: How Messi built his legacy year by year
As Lionel Messi turns 39, his career remains a testament to extraordinary longevity. From scoring his first senior goal at 17 to surpassing 900 career goals, the Argentine has continued to thrive well beyond his prime years. With 351 goals after turning 30, World Cup glory, countless trophies and ongoing success with Inter Miami, Messi has proved that greatness has no age limit.
Quote of the Day by Zendaya emphasizes on happiness and making choices that align with our passions and values, we create lives that are both meaningful and rewarding. Happiness should not be postponed until certain goals are achieved; it should be woven into everyday decisions and experiences. In a world that often emphasizes external accomplishments, Zendayas message reminds us that the greatest success is living a life that brings joy, purpose, and genuine contentment. Ultimately, when happiness becomes a priority, many other aspects of life naturally fall into place.
Cristiano Ronaldo etched his name in history with a brace, leading Portugal to a dominant 5-0 win and becoming the first to score in six World Cups. England endured a frustrating goalless draw against Ghana, while Croatia and Colombia secured crucial 1-0 victories. Modric also reached a remarkable 200 international caps for Croatia.
Lionel Messi, celebrating his 39th birthday, showed no signs of slowing down, hitting the gym for an intense workout. The FIFA World Cup's all-time top scorer continues to break records, recently surpassing Miroslav Klose for most World Cup goals and wins. Argentina's star player is set to lead his team in their next match in Texas.
Amit Shah to chair 10th apex-level meeting of NCORD on June 26
New Delhi, June 24: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah will chair the 10th Apex-Level Meeting of the Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD) on Friday, 26 June 2026, at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. The meeting, being organized by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) will play a crucial role in further strengthening the governments efforts to achieve PM Modis vision of a drug-free India. It will bring together key stakeholders from 44 Central Ministries and Departments, along with 108 representatives from State Governments and Drug Law Enforcement Agencies in hybrid mode. On the occasion, Union Home Minister will release the Vision Document on Narcotics Control (2026-2029). Prepared through wide-ranging consultations with concerned Central Government Departments, Drug Law Enforcement Agencies and other stakeholders, the Vision Document will provide a shared roadmap for addressing the demand-reduction, supply-reduction and harm-reduction aspects of the drug menace. The roadmap which envisages network centric enforcement approach, also includes the actions to be taken to meet the challenges of synthetic drugs, darknet-enabled trafficking, keeping youth away from drugs, expanding the reach of treatment and rehabilitation centres for drug users, among other measures in a coordinated and sustained manner over the next three years. This document clearly defines responsibilities, timelines and measurable targets for all stakeholders while integrating enforcement, demand reduction, rehabilitation, public awareness, capacity building, and inter-agency coordination. This Vision Document will serve as a guiding framework for policy formulation, implementation and institutional strengthening across the country to curb the menace of drugs. Amit Shah will also release NCB Annual Report- 2025 and inaugurate the newly built NCB Zonal offices in Jammu and Guwahati. The Drug Disposal Fortnight Campaign, a special drive to destroy narcotics. During the fortnight, approximately 2,09,500 kg of drugs worth 6,000 crore are expected to be destroyed across India, in accordance with the law, by various Central and State law-enforcement agencies. The meeting will provide a platform for a comprehensive review and assessment of the collective efforts undertaken by all concerned stakeholders in combating the drug menace in the country. The deliberations will enable the participating States, departments and agencies to move forward with renewed vigour and commitment towards achieving the goal of effective narcotics control. While underscoring the need for a whole-of-government approach to effectively combating the drug menace in the country, the high-level meeting will deliberate on key issues relating to effectively combat drug trafficking & drug abuse across the country over the next three years. This meeting is expected to reinforce the Governments Zero Tolerance Policy against drug trafficking in the country as emphasized by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Lionel Messi Turns 39: Argentina Legend's Stunning Journey To Becoming Football's GOAT
Lionel Messi has arguably the most glittering career of any footballer in history.
Ronaldo matches Messi in rare FIFA WC record with brace vs Uzbekistan
Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Portugal beat Uzbekistan 5-0 to secure their first win of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 41-year-old became the first player to score in six different World Cups and Portugals all-time leading World Cup scorer with 10 goals. Ronaldo also matched Lionel Messi and Michael Laudrup as both his country's youngest and oldest World Cup scorer.
Lionel Messi Asked About Playing 2030 FIFA World Cup. His Reply
After a hat-trick against Algeria, Lionel Messi scored two more goals against Austria to take his overall tally in FIFA World Cups to 18 - the most by any man in history
Climate change may put 90% of India's renewable energy pipeline at risk by 2030, says report
India's clean energy goals face a significant climate threat, with nearly 90% of planned renewable capacity at high risk by 2030. Floods, heatwaves, and extreme weather pose a $55 billion loss risk. While Maharashtra shows lower exposure, its coastal areas and Mumbai's demand growth warrant attention. Investing in resilience now can halve potential losses, ensuring energy security amidst rising demand.
FIFA World Cup 2026: Group stage goals record broken
A total of 141 goals have been scored so far in the first 48 games of this season; with an extended World Cup this year and 24 more group stage matches remaining, the final tally of group stage goals is far from done.
Ronaldos brace powers Portugal to 5-0 win over Uzbekistan
Houston: Cristiano Ronaldo rebounded from a lackluster start to his sixth World Cup and led Portugal to a dominant victory over Uzbekistan on Tuesday, June 23, renewing hope that the team is a contender for the title. Ronaldo scored two goals to help Portugal roll to the 5-0 win and move on from its disappointing Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Its raining goals this World Cup
As the race for the Golden Boot intensifies, goalkeepers are not happy
FIFA World Cup: Ronaldo Skips Back-to-Back Messi Questions After Brace
With the goals against Congo, Cristiano Ronaldo has written a new record to his name, becoming the first player to score across six different FIFA World Cups
We Need To Work On Scoring Field Goals: Indian Women's Hockey Team Coach Sjoerd Marijne
India defeated hosts New Zealand 2-0 in the final to win the FIH Nations Cup and reclaim their place in the elite FIH Pro League for next season.
Hockey India Congratulates Savita Punia on Padma Shri Award
New Delhi, June 24: Hockey India has extended its congratulations to veteran goalkeeper Savita Punia for being honored with the Padma Shri, Indias fourth highest civilian award, by President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Celebrating this achievement, Hockey India described Savita as a true icon of Indian sports, emphasizing that this recognition rightly acknowledges ... Read more Hockey India Congratulates Savita Punia on Padma Shri Award
How Indian Pharma Companies Are Strengthening Domestic Healthcare Access Post-Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of resilient healthcare systems, reliable medicine supply chains, and accessible healthcare solutions. While the immediate healthcare emergency has passed, its impact continues to shape how healthcare is delivered and accessed across India. Improving access to medicines, promoting preventive care, and supporting everyday health needs have become important priorities for healthcare stakeholders across the country. Today, a pharma company in India is contributing not only to medicine manufacturing but also to strengthening healthcare accessibility through consumer healthcare products, expanded distribution networks, and greater focus on self-care and preventive health. As healthcare needs continue to evolve, pharmaceutical companies are playing an increasingly important role in supporting stronger healthcare systems and healthier communities. Against this backdrop, companies such as Piramal Pharma Limited continue to contribute to domestic healthcare access through a growing portfolio of trusted healthcare solutions that support consumers across different stages of their health journey. Understanding Healthcare Access in a Post-Pandemic Environment Healthcare access extends beyond hospitals and clinical treatment. It also includes the availability of medicines, self-care solutions, health information, and preventive healthcare products that help individuals manage their health effectively. In recent years, healthcare awareness has increased significantly as consumers have become more conscious of personal well-being, hygiene, immunity, and preventive care. This shift has created greater demand for accessible healthcare solutions that support everyday health management. As a result, improving healthcare accessibility remains a key priority for policymakers, healthcare providers, and the broader pharmaceutical industry. Why Domestic Healthcare Access Matters Strong healthcare systems depend on timely access to quality healthcare solutions. When consumers can access trusted medicines and healthcare products more easily, they are better equipped to address common health concerns, support preventive care, and manage long-term wellness. Improved healthcare access can also contribute to better health outcomes by encouraging earlier intervention and greater health awareness. This makes accessibility an important consideration for both healthcare systems and the healthcare pharmaceutical sector. For a pharma company in India, supporting domestic healthcare access represents an opportunity to contribute to both public health goals and community well-being. Key Ways Pharma Companies Are Improving Healthcare Access Pharmaceutical companies are supporting healthcare accessibility through several important initiatives that extend beyond traditional medicine manufacturing. One important area is the expansion of consumer healthcare portfolios that provide easier access to products supporting everyday health needs. These products help consumers address common health concerns while encouraging preventive care and self-management. Companies are also strengthening distribution networks to improve product availability across urban and semi-urban markets. Improved distribution helps ensure that consumers have access to trusted healthcare solutions when they need them. In addition, many organizations are increasing efforts to promote health awareness and encourage informed healthcare decisions. These initiatives contribute to greater understanding of preventive care, self-care, and overall well-being. Together, these efforts are helping the pharmaceutical industry support broader healthcare accessibility across India. The Growing Importance of Consumer Healthcare Consumer healthcare has become an increasingly important component of modern healthcare systems. As consumers take a more proactive approach to managing their health, demand for accessible healthcare and wellness solutions continues to grow. Consumer healthcare products support a wide range of needs, including personal hygiene, nutritional support, pain management, gastrointestinal health, and self-care. By making these solutions more widely available, pharmaceutical companies can help individuals play a more active role in maintaining their well-being. This growing emphasis on preventive care is creating new opportunities for the healthcare pharmaceutical sector to support healthcare outcomes beyond traditional treatment settings. How Piramal Pharma Limited is Contributing to Domestic Healthcare Access Piramal Pharma Limited continues to strengthen its Consumer Healthcare business through a portfolio of products that support everyday health and well-being. The company offers solutions across categories including pain management, gastrointestinal care, hygiene, skincare, vitamins and supplements, women's care, baby care, and kids' wellness. Through established consumer brands and broad market reach, Piramal Pharma Limited serves millions of consumers across India every month. By providing access to trusted healthcare and wellness solutions, the company continues to support consumers in managing a wide range of everyday healthcare needs. Its continued focus on quality, accessibility, and consumer trust reflects the broader role that a pharma company in India can play in strengthening healthcare access across communities. The Role of Healthcare and Wellness in Building Healthier Communities The growing focus on preventive care has reinforced the importance of maintaining long-term health and well-being. Consumers are increasingly seeking solutions that help them support their overall health rather than focusing solely on the treatment of illness. Access to quality healthcare and wellness products can help individuals make informed health decisions and take a more proactive approach to managing their well-being. This trend is expected to remain an important driver of growth across the healthcare pharmaceutical sector. As awareness continues to increase, healthcare and wellness solutions will play an increasingly important role in supporting healthier communities across India. The Future of Healthcare Accessibility in India India's healthcare landscape continues to evolve as healthcare providers, policymakers, and the pharmaceutical industry work together to improve access and strengthen healthcare outcomes. Advances in manufacturing, supply chain infrastructure, consumer healthcare, and digital engagement are creating new opportunities to make healthcare solutions more accessible to a larger population. Companies that combine quality, innovation, and accessibility will continue to play an important role in supporting these efforts. For every pharma company in India, improving healthcare access will remain an important priority as the country works toward stronger and more inclusive healthcare systems. Conclusion The growing focus on healthcare accessibility highlights the importance of collaboration across India's healthcare ecosystem. As healthcare needs continue to evolve, pharmaceutical companies will remain important partners in improving access to medicines, preventive care, and everyday health solutions. Through continued investments in consumer healthcare, product accessibility, and quality manufacturing, companies such as Piramal Pharma Limited are helping support the evolving healthcare needs of Indian consumers. As a trusted pharma company in India, Piramal Pharma Limited is contributing to the growth of the healthcare pharmaceutical sector while helping improve access to healthcare and wellness solutions across the country.
Colombia Secures Knockout Stage Spot with 1-0 Victory Over DR Congo in FIFA World Cup
Guadalajara, June 24: In a thrilling match at the FIFA World Cup 2026, Colombia triumphed over DR Congo with a narrow 1-0 victory. This win, secured at the Guadalajara Stadium, guarantees Colombia a place in the Round of 32 with one match still to play. The only goal of the match came in the second ... Read more Colombia Secures Knockout Stage Spot with 1-0 Victory Over DR Congo in FIFA World Cup
