Goa News

'Goa Stands With Progressive Politics': PM Modi Hails BJP's Zilla Panchayat Poll Win

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant also hailed the BJPs performance in the Zilla Panchayat elections, stating that the party emerged as number one in the state.

Camel Bird Ostriches return after 100 years in Saudi Arabia

After nearly 100 years, the critically endangered Camel Bird ostriches have returned to Saudi Arabia. Reintroduced to the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve, these North African ostriches serve as ecological replacements for the extinct Arabian ostrich. The move is part of the reserves long-term ecosystem restoration, supporting biodiversity, desert habitat recovery, and Saudi Arabias environmental goals.

From Ananya to Sonam: Bollywood Divas Who Gave Major Fashion Goals This Year

Goa fire: Police remand of Luthras extended by five days; 25 died in blaze at brothers' nightclub

Goa nightclub fire: Court extends police custody of Luthra brothers till Dec 26

The nightclub, Birch by Romeo Lane, located in Arpora, North Goa, was the site of a devastating fire on 6 December, which claimed 25 lives and left several others injured

Codeine syrup seized in UP; six held in separate operations in Etah, Mirzapur

ETAH:The Uttar Pradesh Police have intensified their crackdown on the alleged illegal trade, diversion and distribution of regulated codeine-based cough syrup, arresting six persons in separate operations in Etah and Mirzapur districts, officials said on Monday. The action comes as the probe widened into the alleged codiene syrup trafficking racket, suspected to be involved in illicit trade estimated to be worth hundreds of crores -- with links stretching across several states and possibly beyond international borders. In Etah, a joint team of the Agra anti-narcotics unit and Aliganj police recovered 47 cartons of codeine-based cough syrup, estimated to be worth around Rs 50 lakh, from a tobacco warehouse under Aliganj police station area limits Sunday night. Four persons, including a retired serviceman, were arrested on the spot, police said. According to police, the raid was carried out at a warehouse in Nagla Bani village following a tip-off. Preliminary investigation revealed that the seized cough syrup bore the name of a Baddi-based pharmaceutical company, 'Wings', but the batch numbers printed on the wrappers had been deliberately scratched off, indicating that the consignment was illegally manufactured. Yogis do namune jibe backfires as Akhilesh calls remark a BJP self-goal The arrested accused have been identified as Jitendra Yadav, Jitendra Shakya, Pramod Shakya and Punjab Singh, a retired soldier. Cases have been registered against them under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and other relevant sections, and further investigation is underway, police said. Official sources said the Etah recovery is suspected to be linked to Varanasi-based drug trader, Shubham Jaiswal, who is allegedly associated with an international drug syndicate. A lookout circular has already been issued against him, while his father was arrested earlier from Kolkata. The main accused remains absconding, officials said. In a separate development, Mirzapur police arrested two more accused -- Ajit Yadav and Akshat Yadav -- in connection with a case of illegal supply of codeine-based cough syrup registered at Adalhat police station. The arrests were made on Sunday evening following sustained investigation of the suspects, police said. According to officials, the two accused had allegedly floated firms using forged Aadhaar cards and supplied cough syrup through fake documentation. During investigation, police found that transactions worth over Rs 1 crore had been routed through bank accounts opened in Varanasi in the name of the fake firms. Police said Akshat Yadav, proprietor of a firm named A K Distributors, was supplied around 36 litre of New Phensedyl cough syrup (100 ml bottles) from a trader based in Ranchi, Jharkhand. The firm was found to be non-functional on the ground, and records showed it had been opened only once or twice without carrying out any genuine pharmaceutical business. Further scrutiny revealed that the Aadhaar card used for obtaining the drug licence carried a Mirzapur address and was forged, while a different Aadhaar card with a Varanasi address was used for banking purposes, pointing to deliberate fabrication of documents, police said. The firm's bank account in Varanasi showed a turnover of around Rs 1.28 crore. The two accused have been booked under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the NDPS Act and sent to jail. Police said involvement of more suspects is likely and the investigation is ongoing. Officials said the recoveries and arrests form part of a broader state-wide investigation into the illegal diversion of codeine-based cough syrup, a regulated drug.

Goa Nightclub Fire: Police Custody Of Luthras Extended By 5 Days

A Goa court on Monday extended by five days the police custody of Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra, owners of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub where a devastating fire on December 6 resulted in 25 deaths.

Goa nightclub fire: Police remand of Luthra siblings extended by five days

Goa police custody for nightclub owners Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra has been extended by five days. The siblings were arrested after a fire at their club, Birch by Romeo Lane, claimed 25 lives. They had fled to Thailand post the incident. Another owner, Ajay Gupta, has been remanded to judicial custody.

Yogis do namune jibe backfires as Akhilesh calls remark a BJP self-goal

Samajwadi Party supremo Akhilesh Yadav on Monday sought to turn Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanaths do namune jibe into a political gotcha moment, claiming the remark was a self-goal that amounted to an open admission of an alleged rift within the Bharatiya Janata Party, particularly between its Delhi and Lucknow power centres. The sharp exchange unfolded amid a political slugfest over the alleged illegal trade of codeine-based cough syrup, with Adityanath taking potshots at opposition leaders Akhilesh Yadav and Rahul Gandhi while speaking in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly on Monday. Replying to allegations raised by the Samajwadi Party during the second day of the Vidhan Sabhas winter session, the chief minister dismissed the charges as politically motivated and said the uproar created by the opposition reflected a case of chor ki dadhi mein tinka (a guilty conscience). There are two namune in the country, Adityanath said. One sits in Delhi and the other in Lucknow. Whenever there is any discussion on any issue in the country, these individuals immediately flee abroad. ... , , ... pic.twitter.com/vv0eabVu2S Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) December 22, 2025 He went on to add, I think the same thing is happening with your Babua. He will also leave the country again for a trip to England, and you people will keep shouting here, using a term he frequently employs to target Akhilesh Yadav during political rallies. The chief ministers barbed remarks came amid an escalating war of words over the alleged codeine cough syrup smuggling case. Last week, Akhilesh Yadav had claimed at a press conference that the racket originated from the Prime Ministers parliamentary constituency, a charge that drew sharp pushback from the BJP and the state government. Strongly rejecting the Samajwadi Partys allegations that the illegal trade had run into thousands of crores of rupees and had allegedly claimed the lives of hundreds of children, Adityanath said the matter was under investigation and asserted that the trail could eventually point towards the opposition party itself. I think if you delve deeper into this matter, it will all boil down to the same thing that some leader or individual associated with the Samajwadi Party is involved, he said. Adityanath further claimed that financial transactions linked to the alleged syrup racket had passed through the account of an office-bearer of the Samajwadi Partys Lohia Vahini. The transaction in this syrup case also went through the account of an office-bearer of the Samajwadi Partys Lohia Vahini. The Special Task Force is investigating the matter, he told the House. Citing legal developments, the chief minister said the High Court had ruled that the entire case should be prosecuted under the NDPS Act. The Uttar Pradesh government has fought this battle and won, he said. Laying out figures to underline the scale of action taken so far, Adityanath said 79 cases had been registered, 225 accused named and 78 people arrested. He added that raids had been conducted on 134 firms in connection with the alleged racket. Warning that the government would not go soft on anyone involved, the chief minister said the racket was far bigger than what had surfaced so far and vowed bulldozer-style action against all mafias, even if they belonged to the Samajwadi Party. No accused in this case will escape. And dont worry, when the time comes, preparations will also be made for bulldozer action. Dont complain then, he said. Reacting sharply, Akhilesh Yadav said the chief ministers do namune remark amounted to a self-admission and exposed the internal discord within the BJP. In a post on X, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said the statement showed that the DelhiLucknow tussle within the ruling party had reached an unexpected level. Self-admission. No one had expected that the DelhiLucknow fight would reach this point. People holding constitutional positions should maintain at least some sense of propriety and not cross the limits of decorum, Yadav said. He also took a swipe at the ruling party for airing its internal differences in public. BJP leaders should not bring their partys internal infighting to the crossroads. If someone takes offence, they may have to retreat, Yadav added. (With inputs from PTI)

This Video Doesnt Show Visuals From Messis Goat India Tour in Ahmedabad

The video shows Coldplay's concert that was held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

The Future of EVs Is Foggybut California Still Wants More of Them

Hamstrung by lawsuits, the state cant officially keep its goal to ban new gas-powered car sales by 2035. But its going to keep trying.

Liverpool Fear Isak Has Broken Leg: Reports

Isak was hurt in the act of scoring the opening goal in Saturday's 2-1 victory in London after a sliding challenge from Spurs defender Micky van der Ven

Meet Mohammad Izhar - The Left-arm Pacer From Bihar Who Caught The Eye Of Mumbai Indians

The Bihar Cricket Association: Mohammad Izhar had little time to savour the feeling of his IPL dream coming true. As his name was called out at the IPL 2026 auction, the left-arm pacer from Birpur in Bihars Supaul district was already racing against the clock - within 15-20 minutes, he needed to board a bus for a six-hour ride to Patna, where the Vijay Hazare Trophy camp awaited him. When the auction was on, I was at home with my brothers in law. While from the outside I was very excited and nervous, I was very anxious about whether my name will come in the auction or not. Finally, the Mumbai Indians picked me and it brought in a different level of happiness. While I was feeling very good and excited about getting a chance to be in IPL, I became very emotional. Though everyone began celebrating at home, I had to leave to catch the bus for Patna, so I didn't celebrate it much, Izhar recalled in an exclusive conversation with IANS. The five-time champions have been renowned for unearthing uncapped gems through a robust scouting system. Though they had a small purse in IPL 2026 auction, picking Izhar for his base price of Rs 30 lakh is very much a signal that they may have unearthed another gem in the making. Even as he remained engaged with the trials of Kolkata Knight Riders, Izhar recalled how the five-time champions chose patience in having a look at him. Though Mumbai Indians is a big franchise, they are so humble, which even words cannot explain. When they called me for a trial, I was at KKR's trial. But despite being such a big team, they waited for me to come for the trials. When I reached, I was very tired, but I saw they waited for me and told me to rest for a while, so that I could bowl comfortably after recovering. I rested well and then went through the trials very well. It's a very good franchise and the coaches there were very humble. Izhar's cricketing journey began in Birpur, a town in Supaul district, where tennis ball cricket was the gateway to bigger dreams. His transition to leather ball cricket came through a chance observation by his local mentor Jaichand, who spotted raw talent that others missed. Jaichand bhaiya and Birbal bhaiya got me into leather ball cricket and taught me a lot for the last 2-3 years. Previously, I played tennis ball cricket and in one of the games, Jaichand bhaiya saw me bowling and then he told me to start playing with a leather ball. I then went on to play for the district and initially it felt a little tough as I was straightaway playing these games without having played leather ball cricket before. But it began so well that I havent looked back after that. Birbal bhaiya is a star bowler himself. I learnt a lot from him and Jaichand, who himself was a cricketer, he added. Watching legendary fast bowlers Mitchell Starc, Shoaib Akhtar and Brett Lee also transformed Izhars casual interest into a Junoon (passion) to play cricket. Starc has always been my idol from the start. Then seeing Akhtar and Lee take wickets brought in a junoon in me about playing cricket. From the start, it was not like I will play for India or be in IPL. Gradually, I started playing and those thing started to come in my mind. You do get a good understanding of these things once you start to put yourself through the grind. I started setting aims that I want to play for the state and do well there. It was in my mind that I wanted to play in the IPL, though the goal of playing for India is still at the top. But I didn't anticipate that I will get picked this year. So, I am very thankful to God that I got picked for IPL this year. Like many young cricketers from smaller towns, Izhar's early journey wasn't paved with automatic support. Bihar's limited cricketing infrastructure meant initial struggles were there, but his father's growing belief in him transformed everything. When I started playing, my father started giving me a lot of support. He began to understand that I have games to play and do well in them. The support from him grew so much that he started taking care of everything around me by himself. Whenever I got small bruises, he would put a bandage quickly at home. The Bihar Cricket Association's faith proved equally crucial, especially after Izhar had a disappointing previous season. The backing from BCA officials, including previous President Rakesh Tiwari, allowed Izhar to rebuild confidence and rediscover form when it mattered most. Last year, I did not get anything great in terms of performances. I started preparing for this season early and the association trusted me to come good. So I am very thankful for that to all of them in BCA. I am very thankful for the chances because of which I got selected for the IPL. I had a good performance this time in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (taking nine wickets in five games in Kolkata), where the IPL scouts saw me, called me for trials, got into the auction and now I will be in IPL. Izhars bowling arsenal centers on both inswing and outswing, complemented by variations of slower ball essential for success in T20s. Operating around 135 kmph, Izhar acknowledges his game remains a work in progress, particularly his execution of yorker and consistency with swing deliveries. I also have the yorker in my repertoire, but I need to groom and polish it more. In all, I need to do everything better because I am not always perfect. Like my in swing and out swing is not perfect yet, and I need to work on it more. I always try to work on the small things and make my bowling better. Plus, there are some variations of slower ball that I need to polish and groom more. With an IPL deal in hand, Izhar will have access to two masters of the craft - Trent Boult, whose left-arm swing bowling mirrors Izhar's own style, and Jasprit Bumrah, whose yorkers and control have redefined modern-day fast bowling. Boult bowls with the left arm like me and Bumrah swings the ball well. His yorkers are deadly. I am going to learn a lot from them. For youngsters from modest cricketing outposts, Izhars rise carries a clear message: patience and persistence outweigh the lure of instant success. His journey from tennis-ball matches in Birpur to an IPL contract with MI stands as validation of that belief. With an IPL deal in hand, Izhar will have access to two masters of the craft - Trent Boult, whose left-arm swing bowling mirrors Izhar's own style, and Jasprit Bumrah, whose yorkers and control have redefined modern-day fast bowling. Boult bowls with the left arm like me and Bumrah swings the ball well. His yorkers are deadly. I am going to learn a lot from them. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Now on the cusp of wearing MIs iconic blue and gold in IPL 2026, Izhars emergence adds fresh momentum to his promising cricketing story. It underlines once more that, with the right backing, cricketing talent can emerge from the games most unheralded corners. Article Source: IANS

West Indies captain says he 'let the team down' in New Zealand Tests

West Indies Test captain Roston Chase said Monday he felt he had let his team down with his performances in their 2-0 series loss to New Zealand. New Zealand wrapped up the series victory with a 323-run win on the final day of the third Test at Mount Maunganui, after an earlier draw in Christchurch and a win in Wellington. Chase took over the captaincy in March, his team registering seven losses and a draw in his eight matches in charge. He was a dejected figure at Bay Oval at the end of the fifth day, looking down on the field as Black Caps players celebrated their victory with their families. His pain was as much about the team failing to get a win in New Zealand as it was his own role in it. I had a tough series, very below par for my standards, and I didn't really lead from the front on the field, Chase said Leading in terms of words and encouraging and inspiring the team, that was all good and well, but in terms of going out there and producing for the team and letting the team have someone to look up to as a leader, I thought that I let myself down and the team down as well. Chase scored just 42 runs across six innings in the series, an average of seven. It was the second-lowest output in Test history for a captain dismissed six times in a series. With the ball, the offspinner took three wickets at an average of 119, although only the Bay Oval wicket offered any assistance to spinners. Chase said he wants to be a captain who affects performance on and off the field, but it hadn't happened. I want to go out there and show them that I'm not just talking it, I'm doing it as well and I'm giving my all for the team, Chase said. So, yeah, I was a bit disappointed with my efforts. I thought I got some good balls in the series, but it's test cricket, I still thought that I could have given more. Chase said he is working hard to correct some of his batting deficiencies shown up in New Zealand. That's an issue that the wider squad will have to consider, too, given their issues in scoring competitive totals in the first innings of matches. But there were positives. I thought the bowlers gave a good effort and they never stopped trying, Chase said. Before the series started, the goal for the batters was to at least get one hundred in every game, and we got three hundreds over the three-game period, so we were very happy with that. It's something that we've not been able to do in the recent past, getting hundreds. Now it's about putting it all together for the West Indies. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Star allrounder Justin Greaves, who made a double hundred to save the first Test in Christchurch, said Friday he believed the glory days could return to the West Indies.

How much money did Messi take home from his India tour?

Hyderabad: Lionel Messi is not just a footballer, he is a global brand and a World Cup winning icon. Wherever he goes, stadiums fill up, airports turn into fan zones, and people travel just to catch one glimpse. That same stardom was seen in India during his GOAT India Tour, starting in Kolkata, where massive 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 .

Weight Loss Goals: Will A Low-Carb Diet Help Women More Than A Low-Fat Diet?

Emerging research shows low-carbohydrate diets may reduce hedonic hunger and emotional eating more effectively than low-fat diets in women with lipoedema and obesity.

Goa Fire Case: Did Luthra Brothers Use Fake Documents To Obtain Nightclub Licence? Probe On

A police complaint has been registered at Goa's Mapusa Police Station over the alleged forged document.

Not just hard work. CA shares 3 hidden emotional stages that paves the path to real success

Success is fueled by emotion, not just hard work. Chartered Accountant Nitin Kaushik explains three stages: survival, discomfort, and imagination. These emotional shifts drive ambition and growth. Survival meets basic needs. Discomfort sparks a desire for more. Imagination visualizes future goals. This progression builds lasting wealth and personal achievement. Understanding these stages guides ambition and purpose.

Viral video: Hrithik Roshan and Saba Azad attend his cousin's Mehndi, redefine couple goals in perfectly paired ensembles

Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan and his partner Saba Azad recently attended the Mehndi ceremony of his cousin, Eshaan Roshan and stole the spotlight with their coordinated outfits. The couple was praised for their fashion taste and elegance at the same time by fans and fashion lovers on social media. By dressing up the same way, the duo became a model of true couple goals. They could not have been more festive together! Their presence was a perfect mix of the classic and the contemporary.

ASBL Highlights Hyderabad Real Estate Market Trend for Gurugram Investors, Emphasising Cross-City Diversification

ASBL , India’s fastest growing real estate company based in Hyderabad, hosted the Gurugram Realty Meet, a focused investor engagement designed to offer NCR investors practical insights into the Indian real estate market and evolving investment strategies across cities. The session aimed to educate participants on where to invest, how to evaluate markets, and how to build resilient real estate portfolios beyond their home region.   Ajitesh Korupolu, CEO & Founder of ASBL hosts Realty Meet: Gurugram Edition   Set against ongoing real estate news of Gurgaon highlighting price escalation, regulatory delays and rising volatility, the meet addressed a growing need among NCR investors to reassess traditional investment patterns. Attendees included seasoned investors and professionals actively exploring how to purchase a house, how to buy a home in new markets, and the rules for buying a house across cities.   Rather than positioning the meet as a sales-led showcase, ASBL curated it as a knowledge-driven platform. The discussion focused on Indian real estate fundamentals, portfolio diversification, rental yield optimisation, capital preservation and long-term market stability. A key highlight of the session was the live Q&A format, where investors were encouraged to raise market-specific, financial and regulatory questions and those questions were directly addressed by the CEO Ajitesh Korupolu himself.   Why Gurugram Investors Are Looking at Hyderabad The session was personally led by Ajitesh Korupolu, Founder and CEO of ASBL, who shared data-backed insights into macro real estate trends, city-level performance and investor behaviour across India. In addition to the presentation, Ajitesh interacted directly with attendees through an open Q&A and one-on-one discussions, helping investors evaluate individual investment goals, risk profiles and market suitability.   Urban Efficiency and Livability According to the TomTom Traffic Index 2025, Delhi-Gurugram commuters lose 128 hours annually in peak-hour traffic compared to 85 hours in Hyderabad. Hyderabad also maintains better air quality, with an AQI of 117 versus Gurugram’s 158, and has been ranked India’s most livable city by Mercer for seven consecutive years. For investors, these factors play a direct role in rental demand, tenant retention and long-term asset performance.   Cost and Capital Deployment Advantage Numbeo data indicates that Gurugram is approximately 18 percent more expensive than Hyderabad, with a lifestyle costing INR150,000 in Hyderabad requiring nearly INR177,000 in Gurugram. This cost differential allows investors to deploy capital more strategically in Hyderabad, enabling diversification across multiple assets instead of concentrating investment into a single high-ticket purchase.   Commercial Growth Driving Residential Stability Hyderabad continues to outperform NCR in Global Capability Center expansion, accounting for nearly 40 percent of India’s new GCCs over the past three years. Major global companies such as Amazon, Google and Microsoft have expanded their presence in the city, strengthening long-term employment pipelines. Address Advisors reported a 30 percent year-on-year increase in Hyderabad’s office absorption in Q1 2025, compared to approximately 5 percent growth across NCR micro-markets. This sustained commercial growth signals consistent rental demand and reduced vacancy risk for residential investors.   Appreciation With Lower Volatility Between 2019 and mid-2024, Hyderabad recorded a 64 percent increase in property values, compared to Gurugram’s 50 percent rise. Importantly, Hyderabad’s growth trajectory has been more stable, reducing downside exposure for investors evaluating buying a new house or considering first home buyer benefits as part of family wealth planning.   Ajitesh Korupolu’s Perspective Speaking at the session, Ajitesh Korupolu said, “ Today’s investors are far more informed and diversification-driven. They are asking sharper questions around yield sustainability, downside risk and long-term stability. This session was designed to create clarity not just around Hyderabad, but around how investors should think about real estate as a portfolio asset. For those prioritising capital preservation and predictable growth, Hyderabad offers a strong, complementary market to NCR.”   A Knowledge-Led Cross-City Investment Approach Through the Gurugram Realty Meet, ASBL reinforced the importance of education-led investing and cross-city portfolio distribution. By combining live interaction, transparent data and real-world investor queries, the session helped participants align real estate decisions with long-term wealth strategies rather than short-term speculation. The initiative reflects a broader shift toward informed, research-backed real estate investing in India.   About ASBL ASBL is among the first technology-driven real estate companies in India. Known for its commitment to transparency, design innovation and engineering excellence, ASBL follows a customer-first approach with a proven track record of delivering high-quality residential communities. The company supports both experienced investors and first-time home buyers as they explore opportunities within the Hyderabad real estate market.

CIL arms listings to gasification goldrush: Coal sector braces for 2026 energy security overhaul

India's coal sector is poised for significant transformation in 2026 with ambitious reforms, CIL subsidiary listings, and increased funding for coal gasification. These initiatives aim to bolster energy security, reduce import dependence, and fuel economic growth as the nation pursues its Viksit Bharat goals.

India-New Zealand FTA: No entry for Kiwis' dairy products. What else does the $1 bn trade deal offer?

India and New Zealand have signed a significant Free Trade Agreement. This pact aims to boost trade and investment between the two nations. It offers zero-duty access for many Indian exports and tariff cuts for New Zealand. The agreement also includes provisions for services, student mobility, and professional visas. This deal strengthens India's economic goals for 2047.

Indian Athletics in 2025: Neeraj hits 90m high but no end to country's doping woes

Neeraj Chopra achieved his 90m javelin throw goal in 2025. India also hosted international athletics events. However, the year was marred by numerous doping cases involving top athletes. Despite these challenges, the nation is aiming to host major global championships in the future. The athletics federation is taking steps to combat doping.

Best corporate bond mutual funds to invest in December 2025

Investors seeking relatively safe debt options for short- to medium-term goals can consider corporate bond mutual funds in December 2025. These funds invest largely in AAA-rated papers, offering lower credit risk than other debt schemes, though investors must still track interest rate risks and fund manager prudence.

Sustained higher and inclusive growth key for Viksit Bharat goal: Ajay Seth

The former Finance Secretary stresses long-term growth across regions and citizens as key to development by 2047

798 Goan households record zero power bills under Centres green energy scheme

NT Reporter Panaji The Centres PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSGMBY) has delivered zero electricity bills to 798 power consumers in Goa as on December 9 this year, according to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. The ministry stated that a total of 1,304 power consumers in Goa have set up rooftop solar [] The post 798 Goan households record zero power bills under Centres green energy scheme appeared first on The Navhind Times .

2.9k Goans trained under PMKVY as skilling focus shifts to jobs

NT Reporter Panaji Over 2,900 candidates in the state have been skilled under the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) in the last five years. In a reply to an unstarred question in Lok Sabha, the Union Minister for State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Chaudhary said that under PMKVY 4.0, the [] The post 2.9k Goans trained under PMKVY as skilling focus shifts to jobs appeared first on The Navhind Times .

Goa eye redemption

NT Reporter Panaji Goa will be chasing redemption as they square up against Lakshadweep in their second Group H fixture of the 79th National Football Championship for the Santosh Trophy at the Bangalore Football Stadium today at 11 a.m. Reeling from a bruising 04 opening-day defeat to defending champions Services, Goa arrive with wounds to [] The post Goa eye redemption appeared first on The Navhind Times .

Tiger trapped in Keralas Pathanamthitta after repeated attacks on livestock

Forest officials say the tiger had killed buffaloes, dogs and goats belonging to farms and residences at Kumbalathamon, which is located close to forest area

Bundesliga: Bayern Cruise Through Heidenheim To Close Year In Control

Bayern Munich: Bundesliga leader Bayern Munich thrashed bottom side Heidenheim 4-0 away to finish 2025 nine points clear at the top heading into the winter break. Despite arriving with several senior absentees, Vincent Kompany's side dominated from the opening minutes, monopolising possession and pinning the hosts deep in their own half. Bayern's reshuffled lineup showed little sign of disruption, circulating the ball with speed and precision as Heidenheim struggled to mount sustained resistance, reports Xinhua. The breakthrough came in the 15th minute. Michael Olise delivered a corner to the far post, Jonathan Tah headed the ball back across goal and Josip Stanisic reacted quickest to nod in from close range. Bayern doubled its lead just after the half-hour mark when a long ball was poorly dealt with by goalkeeper Diant Ramaj, allowing Hiroki Ito to recycle possession and Olise to finish calmly from close range for 2-0 in the 32nd minute. Heidenheim showed more intent after the break following a double substitution and briefly threatened to reduce the deficit. Stefan Schimmer came closest when his header struck the crossbar in the 56th minute, while Bayern loanee Arijon Ibrahimovic later fired over from a promising position. At the other end, Harry Kane struck the post as Bayern continued to pose a threat without overcommitting. The visitors retained full control of the tempo and introduced two young players for their Bundesliga debuts as the game wore on. Bayern sealed the result late, with Luis Diaz heading in a cross from Stanisic in the 86th minute before Kane completed the scoring in stoppage time with a low finish for his 19th league goal of the season. The strike marked his 100th goal contribution in the Bundesliga. Heidenheim showed more intent after the break following a double substitution and briefly threatened to reduce the deficit. Stefan Schimmer came closest when his header struck the crossbar in the 56th minute, while Bayern loanee Arijon Ibrahimovic later fired over from a promising position. At the other end, Harry Kane struck the post as Bayern continued to pose a threat without overcommitting. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The first half was really strong, and we controlled the game well, said Kane. After the break we were a bit sloppy and gave them some counters, but overall, it was a solid, clinical win. Article Source: IANS

Christmas, New Year on Thursday, long weekends keep F&B industry on tenterhooks

BENGALURU: This is the best business season for the Food & Beverage (F&B) industry in pub city, with Christmas and New Year celebrations, but this year owners of pubs, bars, resto-bars, lounges are keeping their fingers crossed. For one, Christmas is on Thursday. The long weekend ahead may mean Bengalureans will end up celebrating the festive season outside the city, away from the traffic chaos, they said. Most Bengalureans leave the city during a long weekend. Resorts on the outskirts are booked for Christmas and New Year. But in the city there are hardly any bookings for the two big festive days in most restaurants and watering holes, said owners of prominent pubs and bars, who didnt wish to be named. There may be some rush for bookings next week onward. We hope to do some good business this season after a long lull, they said. The recent Goa fire tragedy and Chinnaswamy stampede are also weighing heavy on the F&B industry, which banks largely on Christmas celebrations and New Year revelry. People are worried about safety. We welcome checks and stringent security measures. Its incumbent on us to satisfy the authorities and our guests. Such unfortunate incidents affect business. There will be crowd restrictions, they added. Overall, the F&B business has been slack for the past six months, said the owners. We are seeing a dip of 20 to 25 per cent in revenue post the 50 per cent hike in Excise fee and alcohol prices. There are reasons for the switch; from dining out every weekend to staying at home and calling in food. Corporate spending has been sized down. Hence, there are fewer corporate parties, which are big and a regular source of revenue for the F&B industry. Job insecurity is another big concern, and hiring in the corporate sector is frozen till March/April so people are wary and have rationalised their budgets. In the city, people are tired of long commutes and traffic congestion, and dont want to be on the road on weekends. Instead, they go out of the city to relax and detox, said the owner of a popular chain of pubs. The format of celebrating is also changing with people wanting to host house parties, and some in the F&B business are also catering to them. While there are no bookings as of now for our pubs and bars, we are overbooked for house parties, said the owner of a popular chain of pubs in the city and outside. Most reservations for house parties are from Indiranagar, Koramangala and villas in North Bengaluru, he added.

Arsenal takes top spot for Christmas as Haaland overtakes Ronaldo''s Premier League goal tally

City is the closest challenger, just two points behind in second

Looking at RSS through BJP lens a big mistake: Mohan Bhagwat

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat emphasized that viewing the Sangh through the BJP's lens is a ig mistake, clarifying the organization's goal is the organization of Hindu society without opposing others. He defined Hindus as those respecting their motherland, irrespective of language or rituals, and urged Muslims to recognize their shared national and cultural identity.

India, Netherlands sign MoU on maritime heritage coop

India and the Netherlands have signed a Memorandum of Understanding. This agreement will enhance cooperation in maritime heritage. The National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal in Gujarat will benefit. This partnership involves knowledge exchange and technical expertise. Joint exhibitions and research initiatives are planned. The goal is to create a world-class destination showcasing India's maritime history.

Dr Satish Reddy Urges Rural Students to Aim High

He appealed to students to set clear life goals and work relentlessly to reach greater heights

Nagesh Trophy: Final League Stage Of Mens National T20 For The Blind Set For An Action-packed Start

National T20 Cricket Tournament: The final 10 group stage matches of the 8th Nagesh Trophy Mens National T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind will commence at the Railway Cricket Stadium in Hubli, Karnataka, on Monday. Group C, consisting of Karnataka, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Kerala, and Himachal Pradesh, will be played from Monday till December 25, and the group winners will qualify directly for the Super 8 stage. Nagesh Trophy is Indias premier national-level T20 cricket tournament for visually impaired (blind) mens teams. It brings together state and union territory teams from across the country to compete in a structured T20 format under the auspices of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), with support from organisations like the Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled. The opening ceremony for the league stage was held at Karnataka Gujarat Bhavana at Hubli in the presence of Jagadish Shettar, Member of Parliament, Belagavi Constituency and Former Chief Minister of Karnataka, Abbayya Prasad, MLA, Hubli-Dharwad-East constituency, Dr. G.K. Mahantesh, Chairman, CABI and Founder & Managing Trustee, Samarthanam Trust, and Udaya Kumar, Trustee, Samarthanam Trust. Welcoming the participating teams to Hubli, Jagadish Shettar, MP, extended his best wishes to all the players for the tournament. He said that the entire country has now become aware of cricket for the blind following the historic victory of the Indian womens team, and expressed hope that this success would further increase awareness and support among the general public. He also thanked the Honble Prime Minister Narendra Modi for honouring the womens team and for showing strong support towards the growth of cricket for the blind. The dignitary later joined all the participating teams for a group photograph. Abbayya Prasad, MLA, congratulated CABI and Samarthanam Trust for their remarkable achievements in creating awareness and empowering persons with visual impairments to dream big and pursue their goals with confidence. Highlighting the larger impact of sports, he said that while sports teach individuals to accept defeat on the field, they also prepare them to win the bigger battles of life. Describing sports as a powerful tool for the empowerment of persons with disabilities, he applauded the consistent efforts of CABI and Samarthanam Trust in enabling inclusion, confidence, and excellence through sports. The eighth edition of the tournament had 29 teams in the fray, which were placed in six groups with a total of 56 league matches. The winners of Groups A, B, C, and D qualified directly for the Super 8 stage. The next two places in the Super 8 stage will be decided on Net Run Rate. The winners of Groups E and F will play against the 7th and 8th-placed teams from all the teams of Groups A to D in the eliminators, and the winners of those two matches will complete the Super 8 stage. Abbayya Prasad, MLA, congratulated CABI and Samarthanam Trust for their remarkable achievements in creating awareness and empowering persons with visual impairments to dream big and pursue their goals with confidence. Highlighting the larger impact of sports, he said that while sports teach individuals to accept defeat on the field, they also prepare them to win the bigger battles of life. Describing sports as a powerful tool for the empowerment of persons with disabilities, he applauded the consistent efforts of CABI and Samarthanam Trust in enabling inclusion, confidence, and excellence through sports. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Nagesh Trophy is named in honour of the late S. P. Nagesh, founder president of CABI and a champion for blind cricket development in India. The first edition of the tournament was held in 201819, and has continued annually with increasing participation and competitiveness. Teams from multiple states and union territories compete each year in round-robin league matches followed by knockouts and finals. Andhra Pradesh are the defending champion of the tournament, winning the title by beating Delhi in the finals last year. Article Source: IANS

Mathematics critical towards the goal of Viksit Bharat: Director General of CSIR

In her address, Kailaiselvi traced the legacy of Mathematics as a subject of study and explained how its getting more relevant with the advent of Quantum Computing

As EU waters down 2035 EV goals, electric startups express concern

The future may be electric, but that future is being postponed. The European Commission, citing the need for flexibility, has softened its ambitious plan to ban the sale of gas-powered cars by 2035. Instead of requiring 100% of new cars to be zero-emission vehicles by that date, the revised plan would allow 10% of new []

Managing pain, not just eliminating it, is also important: US-based interventional pain management specialist

The goal today, is not simply to eliminate pain but to improve life quality

Four More Shots Please! 4 Review: Lust, lingerie and no laughs; fans call it Goa tourism ad

When Four More Shots Please! premiered in 2019, it positioned itself as a bold, unapologetic take on urban Indian womanhood, glossy, loud and full of glitz and glamour. Over three seasons, the series drew praise for its representation while also facing criticism for excess and surface-level feminism.

Quote of the day by Swami Vivekananda: 'Arise, awake, and stop not till...'

Swami Vivekanandas powerful quote continues to inspire people even today. It urges self-belief and sustained effort in the pursuit of ones goals. The message cuts through modern distractions and reminds us that true progress requires patience and discipline. It highlights the dignity found in honest effort and encourages individuals to rise above challenges and self-doubt. Timeless in its appeal, the quote stands as a clear call to action for everyone striving to move forward in life.

Quote of the day by Denzel Washington: 'Without commitment, youll never start, but more importantly...'

Actor Denzel Washington's words on dreams, discipline, and consistency resonate widely. He stresses that dreams need goals and persistent effort to achieve. The actor's own Hollywood journey exemplifies this, marked by decades of dedicated work and overcoming failures. His career, filled with awards and acclaimed films, proves that lasting success is built through sustained commitment, not overnight fame. Read on!

Ashes: We Thought We Would Be Competitive, But Australia Outplayed Us, Says McCullum

Boxing Day Test: England head coach Brendon McCullum accepted that the teams preparation for the Ashes series was not right and is prepared for the following scrutiny ahead after the visitors were handed an 82-run defeat at Adelaide Oval. After defeats in Perth and Brisbane, this was a third straight loss for the visitors as Australia took an unassailable 3-0 lead and retained the Ashes title. Acknowledging that their opponents had outplayed them in all aspects, McCullum didnt shy away from recognising that his team's entire performance was the most precise, formidable, and consistent he had witnessed from an Australian side in many years. We're obviously disappointed, McCullum said. We came here with high hopes, high ambitions and lofty goals, and we've been outplayed across three Test matches. You've got to cop a sweep when you don't quite achieve what you're hoping to. I do feel like the last day-and-a-half, two days, we've probably played our best cricket, and that's because we've just played. We knew coming down here that Australia is a very strong team in their own conditions, he later added. We thought we would be competitive, and that we would be able to seize some pressure moments, and we haven't been able to do it. With the ball, we've not quite been relentless enough with our accuracy and challenging on the surface in the areas we need to. With the bat we haven't scored enough runs, we haven't quite found the tempo we need to operate at either. And in the field we have let opportunities go. On the final day, England's lower order showed some resistance, which McCullum was full of praise for, particularly from wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith and all-rounder Brydon Carse. Their efforts raised hopes of a miracle, but a disciplined bowling attack kept the hosts in control, and they continued to hold the urn. Smith (60), Will Jacks (47), and Brydon Carse (38 not out) offered hope to Ben Stokes' team after England reached 207-6 on Sunday. Nonetheless, Mitchell Starc (3-62) brought Australia close to victory before Scott Boland dismissed Josh Tongue, ending the tourists' innings at 352 in pursuit of a record 435 to win. I do feel like the last day-and-a-half, two days, we've probably played our best cricket, and that's because we've just played, he said. I feel like, for the previous nine days, we were so caught up and so driven to achieve something, and succeed, that we almost got in our own way, and we stymied our talent and our skill and our ability. It's only been the last two days that we've let go and just played, and actually competed, and probably had our best two days of the tour. So there's a lesson in that, and not just for the players. There's a lesson for the coach, and the coaching staff as well. How do you free guys up when the pressure is at its highest, rather than having to wait to these last two days? Despite nine scores of thirty or more over the course of their two innings, England's performance in Adelaide remained seriously flawed, with none of their batters reaching a century. McCullum was pleased, though, that a team that had been outplayed in every pivotal moment of the game thus far had at last displayed hints of the character that should have been crucial to their performances throughout the tournament. I know that that'll be something that's questioned, McCullum said. When you've lost 3-0, you've got to put your hand up and say, 'maybe I didn't get that preparation right'. Ultimately you are responsible for how you get your side ready and how you prepare them. I had conviction, we had conviction in our methods in terms of preparation, not just leading into the first Test but also in between Tests. I look back now and think, did we need more leading into the first and did we need less leading into the second? They are the changes over time you look back on and say would I do it differently? Retrospectively, we lost 3-0 so you would probably say there was room for change there. Again, you put your hand up as a coach and say you might not have got that right. At the same time I felt it would give us our best chance because it has previously. Sitting here 3-0, it didn't work. Ultimately you are responsible for how you get your side ready and how you prepare them. I had conviction, we had conviction in our methods in terms of preparation, not just leading into the first Test but also in between Tests. I look back now and think, did we need more leading into the first and did we need less leading into the second? They are the changes over time you look back on and say would I do it differently? Also Read: Live Cricket Score We do have a great opportunity in the next two Tests, he said. That's the message to the boys, right? We need to find something out of this tour. We need to salvage some pride and play for all the people that have come down to Australia and supported this team, and play for all the people back home in England, supporting this team as well. If we can do that, then we walk away with a bit of pride. Article Source: IANS

GNTO eyes 10 lakh overnight stays by Indian tourists in Germany in 2026

NEW DELHI, Dec 21: Germany is targeting 10 lakh overnight stays by Indian tourists in the country in 2026, after narrowly missing the goal this year, according to a German National Tourist Office India official. German National Tourist Office (GNTO) India, the official representative office of the German National Tourist Board, expects to close 2025 with 9.6 lakh overnights into Germany by Indian tourists, GNTO Director of Marketing & Sales Office India, Romit Theophilus, told PTI. We want [] The post GNTO eyes 10 lakh overnight stays by Indian tourists in Germany in 2026 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Ben Stokes Says Losing Ashes in 11 Days Sucks but Vows England Will Bounce Back

Skipper Ben Stokes said Sunday it sucks to lose the Ashes inside 11 days but vowed England would bounce back as a more consistent side in the final two Tests in Melbourne and Sydney. Their capitulation over three Tests is a far cry from the pre-Ashes hype that promised a hard-fought series, with Australia proving better in all departments. Stokes admitted as much, but said defeat hurt nevertheless. We came here with a goal in mind and we've not being able to achieve that. It hurts and it sucks but we ain't going to stop, he said. At least England finally showed some of the fight Stokes had been demanding in the third Test, coming within 82 runs of a major upset in Adelaide as they chased a world record 435 to win. I think the boys were excellent today. They showed some great application, said coach Brendon McCullum. They bounced off each other and tried to take the game as deep as they could. We didn't get there, but I thought it was a fine achievement. While they showed more grit in Adelaide after eight-wicket losses in Perth in two days and Brisbane in four, England have failed to meet the big moments throughout the series. Stokes said the key difference between the sides was constant execution with England lacking Australia's relentless quality. Australia have just been able to execute things on a way more consistent basis than us, he said. Both with the ball and the bat, and in the field. They've been able to outdo us on a much higher level. McCullum put it down to Australia making better decisions in pressure moments. For us, from the get-go, it has never been about scoring rates, he said, alluding to the ultra-aggressive Bazball style of play he and Stokes pioneered. It is about respecting what is coming at you, being present in the moment. You identify what the levels of risk are, but what the opportunities are and make sure how to counter that. Be able to apply pressure when you need to and absorb pressure when you need to. I don't think we have got that balance right in the previous encounters in the series. Also Read: Live Cricket Score If we had cottoned onto that earlier then we would have been more competitive.

Top 5 cities in India to celebrate this Christmas holiday 2025 with lights and cheer

Christmas spirit is already alive across India, with cities offering diverse ways to celebrate. From Goa's relaxed charm and Shillong's intimate warmth to Puducherry's gentle pace, Mumbai's inclusive energy, and Kolkata's vibrant street festivities, each destination provides a unique experience. These five cities beautifully capture the season's joy, lights, and shared warmth.

Kerala Lok Bhawan observes Goa Liberation Day

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Goas liberation from the clutches of Portuguese through Operation Vijay marked a highpoint in the feeling of patriotism and nationalism in the country, said Governor Rajendra Arlekar. He was speaking after felicitating 24 families of the state who participated in the Goa Liberation movement of 1961. The governor said that it took nearly 14 years since Independence for Goa to be formally integrated in the Indian Union. Indias Independence of 1947 remained incomplete until Goas integration in the Indian Union. People from all parts of the country cutting across the region, language and community participated in this glorious movement. Collective aspirations of the people that put pressure on the Centre ultimately paved the way for the Liberation of Goa, Arlekar said. By honouring the freedom fighters who participated in the Liberation of Goa, we are recognising the great patriots contributions and transmitting the cultural underpinnings of the freedom movement to percolate into every layer of society, he said.

At 72, this Karnataka woman is racing against her age

SHIVAMOGGA: Age is just a number for B Manjamma, a 72-year-old athlete from Shivamogga. She won a gold medal in the 400m run at the 23rd Asian Masters Athletics Championship in Chennai recently. She is a perfect example of the adage, Talent never fails or has an expiry date. She has won 110 medals in all, at the state, national and international level after taking to athletics just seven years ago. Manjamma retired as lady health visitor (LHV) and in-charge nursing officer at the district health officers office in 2013 after 36 years of service. Her husband HT Devaraj, who was from Kodagu and worked at the Karnataka Handloom and Woolen Society, passed away in 2013. The loss pushed her into a deep depression. Trying to pull herself out of the dark mental hole, she started jogging in 2018 when she was 65. Since then, she has been taking part in district, state, national and international events. My 27-year-old daughter Varshini Das, a doctor in Bengaluru, is behind my achievements. She has been supporting and motivating me all these years. I also have friends supporting me and appreciating my sportsman spirit even at the age of 72. Sports associations of Mysuru and Mangaluru motivate me by inviting me to their events, she told TNSE. Sports and games improve physical and mental health. They help people, especially the elderly, to be active and attentive. Yoga, walking, meditation and sports are all essential part of this, she said. She bagged the first prize in shot put at an athletics meet in 2018 for the first time. This prompted me to continue my sports journey, she added. There is no age limit to explore your talents and skills. One must gain confidence, which will help achieve greater things. Nothing is impossible, she said. Apart from the district-level track and field events, Manjamma represented the state in Nasik, Hyderabad, Goa, Pune and Kochi. She also attended international events in Brunei, Sri Lanka Master Athletics International, South Asia Tournament in Mangaluru and South India Tournament in Udupi. Keeping herself sprightly even at this age, she had a message for the younger generation, Youngsters should keep their body and mind active. They should avoid sleeping late and eating junk food, adopt a healthy lifestyle and keep obesity at bay. They should jog, walk, meditate, practice yoga and play games to keep themselves fit. Such activities help them concentrate on academics too. This ever-enthusiastic late bloomer said, Earlier, I used to participate only in 100m and 200m races. But now, I take part in shot put, discus throw, 1 km walk, 60m race and javelin throw.

Thank you for Everything: Malayalis bid adieu to Sreenivasan

KOCHI: Sreenivasan enjoyed punctuating the tale with hearty amusement. Arriving in Thiruvananthapuram for what he believed was an acting assignment in a film by Priyadarshan, the twenty-something sought to know the nature of his role. The directors reply was blunt... as it was life-altering: There is no script. If Sreenivasan wanted to act, he would have to script it. With nothing to do back home, he stayed on the set and began writing. Both Priyadarshan and Sathyan Anthikad pushed me into the deep end of scriptwriting, he later said at an awards function, and I somehow stayed afloat without knowing how to swim. That reluctant plunge produced one of Malayalam cinemas most original voices. On Saturday, that voice fell silent. The veteran actor, screenwriter and filmmaker was 69. Ailing for long, Sreenivasan was being taken to Amrita Hospital for dialysis when his condition deteriorated. He was rushed to the Tripunithura Taluk Hospital, where he breathed his last. His cremation will be held at 10.30am on Sunday at his residence in Udayamperoor. Sreenivasans death draws the curtains on an era. Few artists chronicled the Malayali psyche with such wit, empathy and sting. Over nearly 48 years, he acted in more than 200 films and wrote screenplays that shaped the industrys golden years. His humour was never decorative; it was dissecting. With an almost journalistic eye, he teased out the hypocrisies embedded in everyday life political posturing, middle-class vanity and masculine insecurity rendering them funny, painful and recognisably human. Born on April 6, 1956, in Pattiam near Thalassery in Kannur district, Sreenivasan grew up in a modest household his father was a schoolteacher and mother a homemaker. Sreenivasan: The goat of satire Actors Mammootty and Mohanlal pay their respects to Sreenivasan at Town Hall in Kochi on Saturday. After his schooling in Kuthuparamba and Kadirur, he studied economics at PRNSS College, Mattanur, before training formally at the Tamil Nadu Government MGR Film and Television Institute, Chennai. He made his acting debut in Manimuzhakkam (1976), directed by P A Backer, and his first lead appearance was in Sanghaganam (1979), also by Backer. But it was writing that unlocked Sreenivasans true range. His debut screenplay, Odaruthammava Aalariyam (1984), announced a new idiom irreverent, observant and unafraid of puncturing social sanctimony. The mid-1980s to early 1990s marked his creative peak, when his writing, often in collaboration with Sathyan Anthikad, produced a string of enduring films including Gandhinagar 2nd Street, Sanmanassullavarkku Samadhanam, Varavelpu, Thalayanamanthram and the immortal Nadodikkattu. Blending humour with social insight, these films, most of which were anchored by Mohanlal, translated middle-class anxieties into movie lore with Nadodikkattu and its sequels attaining cult status and embedding their characters and dialogues deep in Keralas public memory. No film captures Sreenivasans political bite better than Sandesam (1991). A searing satire on over-politicisation, it framed Keralas bipolar politics within the confines of a family home. Polandine kurichu oraksharam mindaruthu! Dont you utter a word about Poland! his retort to Jayarams character remains lodged in the Malayali collective memory three decades on. The joke endures because the truth it skewers still stands. Sandesham earned him the Kerala State Film Award for best story and the status of Malayalam cinemas most influential political satire. As a filmmaker, he was equally incisive. Vadakkunokkiyantram (1989), which he scripted and directed, anatomised male insecurity and patriarchy with rare tenderness and landed him the state award for best film. Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala (1998) explored marital alienation and emotional estrangement, winning the national award for best film on other social issues. In these works, Sreenivasan turned the camera inward, exposing the fragile ego of the typical Malayali man he knew so well. Even as the industry changed, he adapted without blunting his edge. Udayananu Tharam, Katha Parayumpol and Njan Prakashan reintroduced his social satire to a new generation. Njan Prakashan went on to become among Malayalam cinemas highest-grossing films. As an actor, restraint was his strength he played the flawed common man with authenticity, allowing silences to speak as loudly as punch lines. Sreenivasan wore his career accolades lightly. What mattered was the work: Stories that laughed at power, and questioned piety and social mores. He is survived by his wife, Vimala, and sons Vineeth and Dhyan, both established figures in the industry. As his body was kept at Ernakulam Town Hall, the crowds that came to pay their respects reflected on the breadth of Sreenivasans reach from political leaders to ordinary film lovers who saw themselves in his characters. For nearly five decades, he gave voice to the anxieties, contradictions and quiet dignity of the common Malayali. In losing him, Malayalam cinema has lost a storyteller who laughed with society, even as he held an unflinching mirror up to it. THE LEGEND OF SREENI In an illustrious career spanning nearly 48 years, Sreenivasan acted in more than 200 films, directed two movies and wrote screenplays that shaped the industrys golden years A champion of social satire and political criticism and creator of unadulterated humour, he mirrored the Malayali community, with all its vulnerabilities, pettiness, honesty or the lack of it through his scripts. Awards and accolades Sreenivasans directorial venture Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala (1998) won the National Film Award for Best Film on Other Social Issues' Vadakkunokkiyantram (1989), which he scripted and directed, won him the Kerala state award for the best film He won the state award for best story for Sandesam (1991), and best screenplay for Mazhayethum Munpe (1995)

Sreenivasan: The goat of satire

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: How political was he? Or apolitical for that matter. Veteran writer- actor- director Sreenivasan 's political screenplays traverse mostly through wafer-thin margins of both the political and apolitical, even at times, merging the two. A master storyteller, he succeeded in capturing the subtle hues of the Malayali psyche via his scripts that almost always reflected Kerala society in its entirety, through a career that spanned almost five decades of stellar creative output. As an untiring champion of social satire, political criticism and creator of unadulterated humour, Sreenivasan mirrored the Malayali community of the 70s and 80s, with all its vulnerabilities, pettiness, honesty or the lack of it through his blockbuster scripts. Be it his first Mazha Peyyunnu Maddalam Kottunnu , the widely popular trilogy of Nadodikkattu , Pattana Pravesham, Akkkare Akkare Akkare spread over three years, his screenplays encapsulated storylines that never failed to question the societal convictions of the day. Sandesam , one of his most popular screenplays ever, could well be the rebelliousness of a societal spectator, fed up with the existing system. Contrary to popular perception it was not mere Left bashing or revving up anti-Communist sentiments that Sreenivasan often indulged in. The astute political commentator that he was, Sreenivasan preferred to take a bird's eye view at the sore lack of inner political conviction that often runs as a leitmotif through Kerala society, cutting across all classes. Laced with vibrant political undertones, Sreenivasan's scripts often shed light on a wide variety of topics. Who can ever forget the clipped arbitrary hint of threat hidden within Polandinekurich Oraksharam Mindaruth , an evident reference to the setback faced by Communists in Poland. The ease with which he incorporated a slice of international politics into the socio-cultural-political machinations of a Kerala neighbourhood, stands testimony to his brilliance as a scriptwriter. Sreenivasan exposed pretensions of Malayalis through his satirical movies Exposing the Malayali's innate farcical hypocrisy and in-built contempt for anything and everything around him, Sreenivasan zeroed in on the deep-rooted prejudices and complexes of the Malayali psyche. In a way Sreenivasan, whose dialogues have become ingrained in the minds of Malayalis across the globe, created a kaleidoscope of frames that captured the whole of Kerala society's idiosyncrasies back in the day. Be it the Gulf migration of the 80s and 90s, spiralling unemployment, the typical work-shy youth of the times, their intricate social complexities, lack of political conviction...the list seems endless. Sreenivasan chose to tread a path that differed distinctly from many established writers, be it the legendary M T Vasudevan Nair, widely popular T Damodaran, or the mystic Padmarajan. His cinematic scripts chose to turn the searchlights on the shattered hopes and dreamy future aspirations of the burgeoning Malayali middle class. The average Malayali was ever his faithful audience, the ones he took up his pen for. How would an average Malayali remember him? Sreenivasan could well remain as the master of subtle humour for Malayali movie lovers in the years to come. LIFE AND TIMES OF A LEGEND 1956: Born on April 6 at Pattiam near Thalassery, Kannur 1976: Film debut Manimuzhakkam , directed by P A Backer 1977: Enrolled in Film and Television Institute of Tamil Nadu, Chennai 1979: First lead role in move Sanghaganam by P A Backer 1984: Debut as writer in Odaruthammava Aalariyam by Priyadarshan. Also married Vimala. 1989: Debut as director with Vadakkunokkiyanthram , which he also wrote himself 1998 - Won national film award for best film on other social issues for Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala Career highlights 1976 Manimuzhakkam 1977 Sneha Yamuna 1980 Mela 1984 Odaruthammava Aalariyam(also writer), Panchavadi Paalam, Akkare 1985 Mutharamkunnu PO (also writer), Punnaram Cholli Cholli (also writer), Aram + Aram Kinnaram (also writer) 1986 T P Balagopalan MA (also writer), Sanmanassullavarkku Samadhanam (also writer), Oru Katha Oru Nunnakatha (also writer), Dheem Tharikida Thom 1987 Nadodikattu (also writer) 1988 Pattanapravesham (also writer) 1991 Sandesam (also writer) 1993 Midhunam (also writer) 1994 Thenmavin Kombath 1996 Kalapani 2003 Kilichundan Mampazham (also writer) 2007 Arabikkatha 2011 Traffic 2018 Njan Prakasan (also writer)

Mbapp Equals Ronaldo With 59th Goal for Real Madrid

The former Paris Saint-Germain star, who joined Madrid in the summer of 2024, has scored 29 times for Madrid this season, including a league-leading 18

Owen Beck finally gets his first NHL goal: Contract, salary and cap hit details

Montreal Canadiens rookie Owen Beck scored his first career NHL goal on December 20th, intercepting a puck in the neutral zone and snapping a clean shot past the Penguins' goaltender. This milestone moment comes after a previous goal was overturned due to an offside challenge, adding to the young forward's promising start.

Mbappe equals Ronaldo's record in Real Madrid's 2-0 win over Sevilla

Mbappe missed several earlier chances before getting his opportunity from the spot four minutes from time and he made no mistake to net his 59th goal in as many games across all competitions in 2025 to level Ronaldo's 2013 haul.

Traditional Cheese Kalari in Jammu

Its Origins and Food History Dr Rakesh Verma rakeshforests@gmail.com Kalari cheese is a unique artisanal cheese that holds a special place in the culinary landscape of India, particularly in the Jammu region. Known for its rich, creamy texture and mild flavor, Kalari is crafted from full-fat cow, buffalo, or goats milk by nomadic tribes and agro-pastoralist communities. This traditional cheese is referred to in various local dialects: doodh chapati in Hindi, maish krej in Kashmiri, and kalari in Dogri, reflecting [] The post Traditional Cheese Kalari in Jammu appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Malabar Gold & Diamonds opens first showroom in Goa

NT Reporter Panaji Malabar Gold and Diamonds on Saturday opened its first showroom in Goa at Dayanand Bandodkar Marg, Miramar, marking the brands entry into the state with its largest jewellery showroom to date. The showroom was inaugurated by Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor in the presence of Filsor Babu, regional head-Karnataka, along with senior members [] The post Malabar Gold & Diamonds opens first showroom in Goa appeared first on The Navhind Times .

Record elector participation in rural Goa

NT Reporter Margao Polling for the Zilla Panchayat elections in Salcete taluka concluded on a largely peaceful note on Saturday, barring a couple of incidents. The taluka recorded a turnout of 61.13 per cent, with Guirdolim and Davorlim constituencies registering the highest turnouts 70.75 per cent and 65.78 percent respectively. A voter from Curtorim, [] The post Record elector participation in rural Goa appeared first on The Navhind Times .

Book Review | Eighteen Flavours Of Bombay

Her parents, with the family due to shift to Goa, lie about why shes shifting from her present school.

A Goan in electronics, and behind airports

Frederick Noronha After an expat-related book a fortnight ago (Leo J De Souzas No Place For Me), here goes one more in that series. Maybe that could be overlooked, given that December has anyway become the time when so many Goans return home from across the globe (it used to be in the month of [] The post A Goan in electronics, and behind airports appeared first on The Navhind Times .

Goas maverick in the sky

Air Vice Marshal Sunil Jayant Nanodkar, a decorated fighter pilot and strategic leader, has shaped Indias air power, pioneered aviation innovations, and inspires Goan youth to pursue challenging careers in military aviation John Aguiar Air Vice Marshal Sunil Jayant Nanodkar AVSM VM VSM was commissioned in the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force (IAF) [] The post Goas maverick in the sky appeared first on The Navhind Times .

LG reaffirms Adms commitment to eliminate TB

Jammu Tawi, Dec 20:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday reaffirmed that J&K administrations commitment to the national goal of tuberculosis elimination. Chairing a high-level meeting here to review the implementation and progress of Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan in the UT, LG Sinha, according to the news agency emphasized on conducting a deep analysis [] The post LG reaffirms Adms commitment to eliminate TB appeared first on Northlines .

Goa go down against Services

NT Reporter Panaji Goa FA suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat against Services in their opening match of the 79th Santosh Trophy at the Bangalore. Abhishek Pawar opened the scoring for Services with a brace in the 59th and 64th minutes, followed by Roshan Panna (67) and Vijay J (69) as they ran riot in the [] The post Goa go down against Services appeared first on The Navhind Times .

A (Nut)-cracking start to the Christmas season

DR. LUIS DIAS The first and only time I watched a live ballet performance in Goa would have been in the early 1990s at the open-air auditorium, Kala Academy, Campal. It was a visiting troupe from the formerSoviet Union. Goas cultural calendar has steadily declined since then, and nobody really seems to care, least of [] The post A (Nut)-cracking start to the Christmas season appeared first on The Navhind Times .

Series Against Sri Lanka Very Important Ahead Of Next T20 WC, Says Harmanpreet

ODI World Cup: A month after the epochal Womens ODI World Cup triumph, India will be seen back in action when the T20I series against Sri Lanka begins at the ACA-VDCA Stadium on Sunday. India captain Harmanpreet Kaur said the series will serve as crucial preparation for the next T20 World Cup, to be held in England from June 12 to July 5. India have just 11 T20Is lined up before the global event happens and will be keen to build rhythm and momentum. Since their group-stage exit at the 2024 T20 World Cup, India has adopted a more aggressive approach, as seen from their 2-1 series win over the West Indies and a 3-2 triumph over England in July this year. Our end goal is the next T20 World Cup in six months and before that, we want to play as many T20s as possible. From tomorrow it is going to start and some new players in the team; it is the right time to give them a fair chance to understand how we have to go in the next World Cup. So, it is a very important series for all of us and we just want to play with a free mindset and play how we have been playing T20s for the last couple of years, said Harmanpreet in the pre-series press conference on Saturday. Indias World Cup-winning squad largely features against Sri Lanka, barring Radha Yadav and Uma Chetry, who have made way for youngsters, left-arm spinner Vaishnavi Sharma and wicketkeeper-batter G. Kamalini. It was hectic, but I want these kind of schedules after every World Cup. So I don't mind that, but looking forward to this series. We have been waiting for a month when we will go to the field because end of the day we enjoy ourselves on the field, so tomorrow we are going to start our first game, so really looking forward for that, added Harmanpreet. Indias World Cup-winning squad largely features against Sri Lanka, barring Radha Yadav and Uma Chetry, who have made way for youngsters, left-arm spinner Vaishnavi Sharma and wicketkeeper-batter G. Kamalini. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It also helps that India played ODI World Cup games against South Africa and Australia in Visakhapatnam. The pitch is really good (for batting). Dew is going to play a huge role in this ground. We played the (ODI) World Cup matches here. We know the kind of pitch here, and how we have to respond, concluded Harmanpreet. Article Source: IANS

Atal Bihari Vajpayee: Statesmanship rooted in Indias civilisational confidence

The birth centenary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Bharat Ratna and former Prime Minister of India, is not merely an occasion of remembrance but a moment of national introspection. It invites the country to reflect upon the values, vision, and civilisational commitment that defined one of the most remarkable public lives in modern Indian history. Born on 25 December 1924 in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, to Krishna Devi and Krishna Bihari Vajpayee, Atalji lived a purposeful life of 94 years devoted entirely to the service of the nation. From a brilliant student and sensitive poet to a fearless journalist, from a principled parliamentarian to a globally respected statesman, his journey remains a guiding light for Indias democracy and national consciousness. He passed away on 16 August 2018, leaving behind not only memories, but an enduring moral and political legacy. Atal Bihari Vajpayee was a rare leader who harmonised ideology with inclusiveness, firmness with compassion, and nationalism with democratic restraint. These exceptional qualities earned him admiration not only from his supporters but also from political opponents across party lines, both in India and abroad. Reflecting this universal respect, Vladimir Putin once described him as an outstanding statesman whose name is inseparably linked with an entire era of Indian politics. Such recognition was a result of Ataljis integrity, intellectual depth, and unwavering commitment to Indias dignity on the global stage. From the very beginning of his political life, Atalji remained deeply committed to Indias unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. On the issue of Jammu and Kashmir, he stood firmly alongside Syama Prasad Mukherjee, sharing an emotional and ideological bond rooted in the struggle against the permit system and the special status that compromised national unity. Mukherjees historic message, declaring his entry into Kashmir without a permit, remained engraved in Ataljis conscience throughout his life. Whether in opposition or in government, Kashmir remained central to his political missionmarked by struggle when outside power and pursuit of solutions when entrusted with authority. His assertion on Kashmir did not stem from concession but from confidencean understanding that India, secure in its civilisational strength, could speak of peace and dialogue without compromising sovereignty or national self-respect. Atalji consistently opposed the weak and short-sighted policies of the Nehru era on Kashmir and the rehabilitation of Hindu refugees. He forcefully challenged Chinese expansionism, warning both Parliament and the nation that Chinas occupation of Tibet would endanger Indias northern frontiers. His famous declaration in Parliament in 1959, that India could not build a palace of friendship with China on the corpse of Tibets freedom, remains one of the strongest assertions of moral realism in Indias foreign policy discourse. Similarly, while supporting the 1961 liberation of Goa, Daman, and Diu, he asserted that the action was not a war but the restoration of Indias lost breath and self-respect. On the Berubari issue, he firmly warned that no government had the authority to donate national territory, as the land belonged to the nation, not to any individual or ruling establishment. Atal Bihari Vajpayees public life began with journalism, where he wrote for Rashtradharma, Panchjanya, Veer Arjun, and Swadesh. He believed that journalism was not merely about reporting events but about shaping national consciousness and providing direction to society. For him, the press functioned both as a mirror reflecting reality and as a lamp illuminating the path forward. His commitment to nationalist and responsible journalism continues to serve as a moral benchmark, especially in an era marked by sensationalism and selective narratives. As Prime Minister, Atalji added transformative dimensions to Indias development journey. His governance was characterised by economic reform balanced with social sensitivity, infrastructure expansion rooted in inclusion, and national security guided by strategic restraint. Leading a coalition of 24 parties under the National Democratic Alliance, he demonstrated exceptional coordination, consensus-building, and respect for constitutional institutions. Even within the constraints of coalition politics, he elevated the dignity of the Prime Ministers office and strengthened democratic conventions. Landmark initiatives such as the Golden Quadrilateral Highway Project and the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana laid the foundation for Indias modern infrastructure and economic integration. He believed roads were the arteries of the nation, and that connectivity was the key to progress. Recognising the deep link between illiteracy and poverty, Atalji strengthened the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, while the Antyodaya Anna Yojana ensured food security for the poorest sections of society despite economic constraints. His vision for long-term water security was reflected in the River Linking Project, which addressed drought mitigation and optimal water utilisation. Indias telecom revolution owes much to his decision to democratise mobile connectivity, transforming communication into a mass utility. By adding Jai Vigyan to the traditional slogan of Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, he reaffirmed the centrality of science, innovation, and research in nation-building. The nuclear tests conducted at Pokhran on 11 and 13 May 1998 stand as a testament to Ataljis courage, strategic clarity, and national resolve. By maintaining absolute secrecy, managing international sanctions with prudence, and standing firm under global pressure, he established India as a responsible nuclear power. His assertion that nuclear-armed nations had no moral authority to lecture India reflected an uncompromising commitment to sovereign equality and national self-respect. Atal Bihari Vajpayees foreign policy was firmly rooted in the principle of peace backed by strength. While initiating improved relations with China and strengthening ties with the United States, he never compromised Indias strategic autonomy. His efforts created early global awareness about the menace of terrorism. A committed advocate of peace, he travelled by bus to Lahore to extend a hand of friendship, yet when war was imposed during the Kargil conflict, India responded decisively under his leadership and emerged victorious. He thus embodied both the resolve of a peace-maker and the firmness of a war leader when the nations honour demanded it. Even while in opposition, Atalji exemplified the principle of Nation First. He supported Indira Gandhi during the Bangladesh Liberation War, led Indias parliamentary delegation on Kashmir in 1994 at the request of P. V. Narasimha Rao, and supported economic reforms under Chandra Shekhar. Such conduct set the highest standards of democratic opposition and remains exemplary even today. His historic speech in Hindi at the United Nations symbolised his profound love for Indias linguistic and cultural heritage. A proud custodian of Indian traditions, he respected all civilisations while firmly upholding Indias cultural identity. A distinguished poet, his verses reflected nationalism, democracy, hope, and human sensitivity, while his oratory mesmerised Parliament and the public alike. Even during ill health, Atalji endured imprisonment during the Emergency to defend democratic values. When confronted with unethical compromises, he chose to lose power rather than principles, leaving behind an unparalleled lesson in political morality. For him, India was not merely a geographical entity but a living civilisation. His words that one must live and die for the nation continue to inspire millions. As India moves forward under the leadership of Narendra Modi, fulfilling many of Ataljis long-cherished dreams, the truest tribute to Atal Bihari Vajpayee lies in building a strong, self-reliant, and prosperous Bharat. That alone is Ataljis enduring legacyAtal forever. (Shiv Prakash is National Co-Organisation General Secretary, Bharatiya Janata Party)

Kashmiri crafts come alive at Serendipity Arts Festival in Goa

Panaji: A few rooms at the Old GMC Complex here have been lined from wall to wall with Waguv mats woven from reed and rice straw exuding the warmth of traditional Kashmiri home, scent of the valleys lakes, and the softness of its nature. Stepping inside, one is transported to a world of Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Chandrababu Naidu launches Mustabu, counsels schoolstudents to maintain personal hygiene

He advises students to follow basic habits such as washing face regularly, keeping nails clean, wearing neat uniform and shoes, combing hair properly, and dressing in a proper manner; he also exhorts them to set clear goals in life, dream big, work hard, and strive to reach greater heights

Stray dog attack kills four goats in Erode

LG Manoj Sinha Reviews Progress Of Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan

Jammu, Dec 20: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, at a high-level meeting on Saturday, reviewed the implementation and progress of Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan in the UT of Jammu Kashmir. The Lieutenant Governor reaffirmed the UT Administrations commitment to the national goal of tuberculosis elimination. He emphasised on conducting a deep analysis of TB-related cases, and treatment outcomes. He called for seamless inter-departmental coordination and a robust community-based support system to ensure no patient is left behind. The Lieutenant [] The post LG Manoj Sinha Reviews Progress Of Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

10 motivational quotes for students to ace their goals

Goa Club Fire: Cops Seek Blue Corner Notice Against Co-Owner Who Fled To UK

Goa Police have started the process to secure a Blue Corner Notice against British national Surinder Kumar Khosla, an accused in the December 6 nightclub fire that killed 25 people, through Central agencies, a senior officer said on Saturday.

Goa nightclub fire: Police initiate process for Blue Corner Notice against Khosla who fled to U.K.

Police have so far arrested eight people, including the nightclub owners Saurabh Luthra, Gaurav Luthra, and Ajay Gupta, and five others

Goa Nightclub Fire: Cops Initiate Process For Blue Corner Notice Against Khosla Who Fled To UK

Panaji, Dec 20: Goa Police have started the process to secure a Blue Corner Notice against British national Surinder Kumar Khosla, an accused in the December 6 nightclub fire that killed 25 people, through Central agencies, a senior officer said on Saturday. He said Khosla was in Goa when the incident occurred and fled to the UK, probably the next day. We have started the process to issue him a blue corner notice to bring him from the UK. Formalities [] The post Goa Nightclub Fire: Cops Initiate Process For Blue Corner Notice Against Khosla Who Fled To UK appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Art, beats, cuisine: Serendipity Arts Festival celebrates 10th edition in Goa

In this photo essay, we showcase a range of outstanding creative works from SAF 2025 in Goa, along with curator insights.

ZP elections to be held in Goa today

NT Reporter Panaji Grassroots democracy will be in a celebrative mood in Goa on Saturday as elections to both zilla panchayats will be held, where 8,69,356 voters are eligible to vote to decide the fate of 226 candidates in 50 seats. The State Election Commission has set up 1,284 polling booths across the state for [] The post ZP elections to be held in Goa today appeared first on The Navhind Times .

CM Sawant pins hopes on development, community farming to uplift rural Goa

Special Correspondent Panaji Announcing his plans to strengthen both zilla panchayats (ZP) on the eve of the elections to the district-level local bodies in Goa, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday said his roadmap for spreading prosperity in Goan villages through both ZPs include rural development and community farming. Community farming in areas like agriculture, [] The post CM Sawant pins hopes on development, community farming to uplift rural Goa appeared first on The Navhind Times .

On Liberation Day, CM says Goa is one step ahead of other states

NT Reporter Panaji Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday said that despite its liberation from the colonial Portuguese regime after 14 years of Indias Independence, Goa is one step ahead of other states in the country in overall development. He also stated that life expectancy has been rising in Goa due to good health infrastructure, [] The post On Liberation Day, CM says Goa is one step ahead of other states appeared first on The Navhind Times .

20 resorts, nightclubs inspected in S Goa after Birch inferno, says district collector

NT ReporterMargao South Goa Collector Egna Cleetus said on Friday that the enforcement and monitoring teams constituted by the government to scrutinise resorts and nightclubs for compliance with safety norms have so far inspected 20 establishments in South Goa following the Birch fire incident that claimed 25 lives. The enforcement and monitoring teams have conducted [] The post 20 resorts, nightclubs inspected in S Goa after Birch inferno, says district collector appeared first on The Navhind Times .

Adidvara Job Habba today to bridge disability employment gap

BENGALURU: AssisTech Foundation (ATF) will host the Adidvara Job Habba at BMS College for Women in Basavanagudi on Saturday, bringing inclusive employers and job seekers with disabilities on to a single, technology-enabled hiring platform. The event, supported by the Department for the Empowerment of Differently Abled and Senior Citizens (DWDSC), the Karnataka Skill Development Authority (KSDA) and the Karnataka Skill Development Corporation (KSDC), is aimed at expanding access to formal employment for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) across sectors. More than 500 job seekers, representing all 21 notified disability categories, are expected to participate. Employers from IT, retail, manufacturing, BFSI, hospitality and services will take part in the event, which is designed to facilitate both direct recruitment and structured employercandidate interactions. Speaking about the initiative, Prateek Madhav, CEO and Co-Founder of AssisTech Foundation, said, By bringing together training, assistive technology and employment on one platform, we are working towards creating sustainable and dignified career pathways for PwDs, he said. Nagaraj N M, Managing Director of KSDC, said the initiative aligns with Karnatakas broader skilling and inclusion goals. Candidates wishing to take part in the Job Habba can register through the Adidvara mobile application. For details, call Suchandana Roy at 98180 05423.

Attempts to kill film fest resisted, says CM Pinarayi Vijayan

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Taking a swipe at the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Friday said attempts to kill the film festival through censorship were countered by the decision to screen the films in question. He was speaking at the closing ceremony of the 30th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) at the Nishagandhi Auditorium in Thiruvananthapuram. The chief minister said the state government, through that particular decision, ensured it stood with the rights of delegates to watch critically acclaimed films screened and awarded at major international festivals. IFFK will remain here, confronting any fascist action against democratic rights. It will not bend its knees before intrusions into freedom of expression, Pinarayi said. The chief minister alleged that even artists invited to the festival were being monitored by the Union government. He pointed out that artists are required to be cleared through the political clearance section of the I&B ministrys portal and that visas were being denied after assessing their political leanings. Calling the practice unacceptable, he said three artists were denied visas -- the director and producer of a Turkish film in the competition section and a jury member from Azerbaijan. They asked whether it was because of them or because of their country. Such actions of the central government bring shame to the nation and must be condemned, chief minister said. Stressing the need to reclaim cultural spaces from communalism and narrow-mindedness, he said the state government would continue to work with the public towards that goal. Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cherian said that despite the state government and the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy making all arrangements to screen the best films from across the world, there were conspiracies to censor selected films. He also reiterated that the state government stood firmly with the survivor in the actor assault case and would protect her to the fullest extent. He said these positions defined the identity of the 30th IFFK. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, we decided to face these challenges head-on. We do not have a history of backing away when films are denied censor certificates. Thirteen such films received approval. We will neither retreat nor yield to threats, Cherian said. Chalachitra Academy Chairperson Resul Pookutty spoke about the pressures cinema is facing today, saying films were confronting challenges beyond the screen. Wall of fame Suvarna Chakoram Best Film Two Seasons, Two Strangers - Sh Miyake Rajata Chakoram Best Director: Carina Piazza & Luca Bracelis (Before the Body) Best Debut Director: Tanushree Das & Saumyananda Sahi (Shadowbox) Audience Poll Award Thanthapperu - Unnikrishnan Avala FFSI KR Mohanan Award: Best Debut Director from India Shadowbox by Tanushree Das & Saumyananda Sahi NETPAC Awards Best Malayalam Film: If On a Winters Night / Khidki Gaav - Sanju Surendran Best Malayalam Film: Thanthapperu - Unnikrishnan Avala Best Asian Film in Competition: Cinema Jazireh - Gzde Kural FIPRESCI Awards Best Malayalam Film by a Debut Director: Desire / Moham - Fazil Razak Best Film in International Competition: If On a Winters Night / Khidki Gaav - Sanju Surendran International Competition Awards Special Jury Mention - Performance: Tillotama Shome (Shadowbox ) Special Jury Mention - Technical Excellence: Black Rabbit, White Rabbit - Shahram Mokri Jury Prize: Thanthapperu - Unnikrishnan Avala LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD FOR ABDERRAHMANE SISSAKO At the valedictory function, Mauritanian-born Malian filmmaker Abderrahmane Sissako was conferred with the Lifetime Achievement Award which carries a cash prize of Rs 10 lakh, a statuette and a citation. Sissako termed it one of the most significant moments of his life. Recalling his long association with Kerala, he said filmmaker Shaji N Karun, who passed away earlier this year, introduced him to the state and had stood by him like a brother in cinema. Reflecting on the India-Africa connection, he said both regions shared deep and meaningful cultural ties. Filmmaker and chairperson of the K R Narayanan National Institute of Visual Science and Arts, Saeed Mirza, who has completed 50 years in cinema, and Iranian filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof, who was the jury chairperson, too were honoured by the chief minister. A DELIBERATE MOVE The chief minister said the decision to deny censorship exemptions to 19 films scheduled for screening at IFFK was not merely a technical error resulting from the ignorance of officials, but a deliberate authoritarian move. By completely cancelling the films in the Palestine package, the Central Government has clearly revealed its stance on the Palestine issue, the chief minister added. He pointed out that the cancellation of a Spanish film Beef proves that the Centre perceives only one meaning for the word beef. He also expressed strong protest over the banning of the all-time classic film Battleship Potemkin.

Adaptability lands Kottayam man farming 'Oscar

KOTTAYAM: At the age of 25, when Mathewkutty Tom decided to defy conventional wisdom by leaving his high-paying job for a calling in farming, many advised him against doing so. For him, quitting a career with a luxury automobile brand, trading it for an uncertain path in agriculture, was not at all an easy decision. However, his passion for farming compelled him to embrace the unknown. Fast forward a decade, and Mathewkutty has not only boosted his annual income around 150 times but also placed his village of Marangattupilly, in Kottayam, in the national limelight, by winning the prestigious Millionaire Farmer of India (MFOI) Awards 2025 -- widely recognised as the Oscars of Indian Agriculture. The 36-year-old with an MBA is now a trailblazer, demonstrating through his integrated methods that agriculture, when approached with a business acumen, is a highly profitable venture. Transforming his 20-acre property into a modern agricultural ecosystem, Mathewkutty now generates an annual income of `22 crore, which earned him the Richest Farmer in India (RFOI) second runner-up title at the MFOI Awards, organised by Krishi Jagran and Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) last week, for his success with a balanced model of crops and animal husbandry. His TJT Farms engages in a wide range of activities from growing paddy, seasonal vegetables and fruits to animal husbandry and meat processing. It was not an overnight success, but the result of hard work and adaptability, says Mathewkutty. Agriculture is profitable if approached as a business venture and one can introduce changes in keeping with viability and market demand. I began in 2015 with plantain and tapioca cultivation, but dropped it when market prices softened and middlemen took a significant share. Similarly, I concentrated on ornamental fish farming, when demand was high during the Covid pandemic, he said. In the realm of animal husbandry, he manages farms with buffaloes, pigs, goats, chickens, quails, and ducks. District animal husbandry officer Dr P K Manoj Kumar said Mathewkutty has demonstrated the profitability of agriculture and animal husbandry, inspiring more young people to follow suit.

A BOAT cant produce a GOAT

Great athletes are made on maidans, not in malls or on artificial turf. With playgrounds in the city rapidly shrinking, our netas must ensure they are protected from encroachment and are free for all to use

SIIEDC organises workshop on Goal Setting and Decision Making

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 19: A one-day workshop on topic Goal Setting and Decision Making organized by the Skill Incubation Innovation Entrepreneurship Development Centre (SIIEDC), University of Jammu, was held here today. The workshop was organised under the guidance of Prof Alka Sharma, Director, SIIEDC and coordinated by Dr Pallavi Sachdeva, University of Jammu. The session was conducted by Neetu Dhar, who participated as the Expert Resource Person. The workshop aimed at sensitising students about the importance of setting clear [] The post SIIEDC organises workshop on Goal Setting and Decision Making appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Sikkims comeback win spoils Meghalayas evening

Shillong, Dec 19: Sikkim came from a goal down in the first half to win 2-1 against Meghalaya in the first Group E match of the Senior Mens National Football Championship for the Santosh Trophy 2025-26 preliminary round at the SSA Stadium at First Ground, Polo, here on Friday evening. Hardy Cliff Nongbri (19) gave []

US military to stop shooting pigs and goats as a way to train medics for the battlefield

The U.S. military will end its practice of shooting pigs and goats to help prepare medics for treating wounded troops in a combat zone

After Birch, Curlie's, another popular Goa nightclub, sealed due to..., was earlier linked to high-profile death case, check details

Curlie's is a popular beachside pub in North Goa which has been sealed by the Coastal Regulatory Zone (CRZ) authorities. The nightclub has been repeatedly flouting regulatory norms.

5th T20I: Surya The Batter Went Missing Somewhere, He Will Be Back Stronger, Says Yadav

T20 World Cup: After India clinched a 3-1 T20I series win over South Africa through a 30-run victory in the fifth game, skipper Suryakumar Yadav admitted his own batting form went missing during the series but promised with absolute honesty that he would come back stronger with the bat in future. In the series, Suryakumar managed scores of 12, 5, 12 and 5, raising serious concerns over his form ahead of next years T20 World Cup. At the same time, he expressed satisfaction at Indias overall performance in T20Is this year, though he couldnt score a single fifty. Maybe the only thing we couldnt quite manage was finding Surya the batter. I think he went missing somewhere! But hell be back stronger. As a team, Im really happy. Whenever we were in trouble, someone always put their hand up and pulled us through. As captain, thats very satisfying, he said in the post-match presentation ceremony. Reflecting on the teams approach in the series win, Suryakumar highlighted the emphasis on consistency and intent. From the start of the series, we wanted to stick to a particular brand of cricket and we did exactly that. We didnt try to do anything different. We wanted to express ourselves in all departments and the results are right there in front of everyone. This is something we felt was missing in our last few series. This is exactly how we wanted to bat, once someone gets going, they dont stop. We wanted that relentless intent, and today it worked beautifully, he said. Suryakumar also explained the tactical use of Jasprit Bumrah and praised Washington Sundars contribution with the ball upfront. Yes, we wanted to try something different. The plan was to use Bumrah in one over in the powerplay, control the middle phase after drinks and then have him ready for the death overs. Washi stepped up brilliantly today and took responsibility. We were under pressure at times, we were challenged, but this game is about how you respond and the boys did really well. Its been challenging but a very good series. We did almost everything we wanted to, he added. South Africa skipper Aiden Markram said a chase of 232 always needed perfect things, but felt the experience of playing the T20I series will prove to be valuable in their World Cup preparation. Chasing 232 was always going to need a near-perfect effort. Quinny and the top three set it up really well for us and we were right in the contest. But in the middle overs, we just couldnt quite maintain that momentum. Still, theres plenty to take away - lessons well learn as a group. With quite a few World Cup games being played here, Im sure this experience will prove valuable. It was challenging, definitely. We were asked some tough questions. Thats a good thing because now we have a clearer idea of whats required if we want to lift the World Cup. We faced a quality Indian side that played really well, and credit to them. But we also looked inward, identified areas to improve, and the lessons weve learned over these two weeks are invaluable, he elaborated. Still, theres plenty to take away - lessons well learn as a group. With quite a few World Cup games being played here, Im sure this experience will prove valuable. It was challenging, definitely. We were asked some tough questions. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I think now weve got a lot of answers. Heading into the World Cup, things will definitely be more structured. Whatever we do, itll be with one goal in mind - giving ourselves the best chance to lift that trophy. Article Source: IANS

Sanskrit University VC Appreciates Historian Prof. Sheikh Ali

The VC unveiled a commemorative volume titled New Facets of Indian Historiography and Historical Methods dedicated to Prof. Sheikh Ali, founder vice chancellor of Goa University as well as Mangalore University.

One of our favorite budgeting apps is 50 percent off right now

If you have a resolution in the new year to get more acquainted with your finances, a good budgeting app can help with that. One of our favorites is a bit cheaper to sign up for right now: Monarch Money is offering 50 percent off annual subscriptions for new users. Use the code MONARCHVIP at checkout to get half off, so you'll pay just $50 for one year of access. Monarch Money was the runner-up in our guide to the best budgeting apps in 2025, and it was definitely a grower. Initially we found the experience of using the app to be needlessly complicated compared to some of its rivals, but get over that hurdle and its impressively fully-featured. There are plenty of customization options, a helpful goals feature and a thorough month-in-review recap that beats out similar features from some of its competitors. We also like how you can grant account access to others. Besides the steep learning curve, we also noted that the mobile app is less intuitive to use than the web version, which might pose a problem if you were hoping to do most of your accounting on the go. We also had some issues with the app failing to distinguish between bills and other recurring expenses, as well as a few bugs along the way. All things considered, Monarch is definitely one of our favorite budgeting apps, only being beaten out by Quicken Simplifi. As you might expect, the biggest strength of Simplifi is its simplicity, and how it eases you into using its various features. If you value that kind of user experience, it might be a better choice for you, but theres unfortunately no free trial to take advantage of. Follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/one-of-our-favorite-budgeting-apps-is-50-percent-off-right-now-154056703.html?src=rss

Goa's Popular Curlie's Pub Sealed Days After Nightclub Fire Tragedy

Curlie's, the popular beachside pub in North Goa, was sealed by the Coastal Regulatory Zone (CRZ) authorities on Friday following regulatory action taken in the aftermath of a recent fire incident at Birch by Romeo Lane.

Messi will be playing a record 6th World Cup, but can he win again?

Lionel Messi will be playing his sixth FIFA World Cup tournament next year. Nobodyelse has achieved this landmark. In the sport of football, goalkeepers, whose job is less tiring and therefore lasts longer, usually play more matches than their teammates. Several goalkeepers have played in five tournaments. But even among them, no one has played 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 .