Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman quits IAF, joins Goa-based airline
Abhinandan Varthaman, who shot down a Pakistani F-16 during an aerial engagement with Pakistan in 2019, joined FLY91 in August
Abhinandan Varthaman Joins FLY91 As Commercial Pilot
Vir Chakra awardee and former IAF Group Captain begins new aviation career with Goa-based regional airline.
KMRL Prepares DPR For Goa Water Metro Covering Nine Routes And 111 Km Of Waterways
GOAT Debate Settled: Lionel Messi Breaks Internet With Receipt-Style Instagram Post
Lionel Messi has added his own twist to the long-running debate over football's greatest player by sharing a receipt-style Instagram post highlighting his achievements with Argentina.
Goa Assembly clears bill allowing Housing Board joint ventures
Panaji: The state assembly has passed a bill enabling the Goa Housing Board to execute schemes and development projects through joint ventures and revenue-sharing models. Adopting a joint venture model would offer practical, financial and administrative advantages compared with independent construction by the board, as per the bill document. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Wednesday 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 .
Lionel Messi shares a post on Instagram settling the 'GOAT Debate'
Lionel Messi posted an itemised, receipt-style graphic detailing his international honours with Argentina, concluding with the bold statement GOAT debate-settled
Abhinandan varthaman retired: Former IAF Group Captain and Vir Chakra awardee Abhinandan Varthaman has joined Goa-based regional airline FLY91 as a commercial pilot after leaving the Indian Air Force and obtaining the required NOC from the Defence Ministry. As per reports, he has obtained a NOC from the defence ministry for transition from fighter pilot to a commercial pilot.
'Drishyam The Conclusion' trailer gets U/A 16+ certificate, Goa launch on Sept 8 or 9
Bengaluru-based tech professional achieved a net worth of Rs 7 crore before turning 32. His strategy involved investing early and increasing his earnings through career moves, while also experimenting with side businesses and learning new skills to create additional income. Despite travelling extensively, he prioritised experiences over material possessions. After becoming a father, he also shifted his focus towards health and well-being alongside his financial goals.
Goa tightens rules; private shacks in CRZ now need to register with tourism department
Goa's assembly passed a bill requiring private shacks in CRZ areas to register. This amendment aims to regulate unregistered establishments and ensure compliance with safety standards. The new law provides support for the state's Beach Shack Policy and its licensing. Approvals will be needed from authorities and local bodies for temporary shacks. Penalties for non-registration of tourist trade activities have also been revised.
Harry Kane Brace Helps Bayern Munich Win German Cup Opener
A Harry Kane double helped holders Bayern Munich come from a goal down to win 4-1 in their German Cup opener at second division Osnabrueck on Wednesday.
Drishyam The Conclusion trailer cleared by CBFC ahead of grand Goa launch
Drishyam The Conclusion trailer has been cleared by the CBFC with a U/A 16+ certificate. The 2-minute-52-second promo is expected to launch at a grand Goa event on September 8 or 9, with Ajay Devgn and the entire cast in attendance
Pilot Abhinandan Varthaman, Who Shot Down Pak Jet, Retires From IAF And Joins Goa Airline: Report
In 2019, Varthaman was conferred the Vir Chakra, India's third-highest wartime gallantry medal, for displaying an exceptional sense of duty during the dogfight.
Fighter pilot Abhinandan, who downed Pak jet, retires from IAF, joins Goa airline
Fighter pilot Abhinandan who downed Pak jet retires from IAF joins Goa airline
Royal Enfield Motoverse 2026 Dates Announced
Royal Enfield has announced the dates for Motoverse 2026, its annual motorcycle festival, which will be held from November 27 to 29 at Vagator, Goa. The brand has opened early-bird registrations and revealed the first set of artists lined up to
CM calls for harnessing J&Ks biomass to decarbonise economy
Srinagar, Sep 02: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday called upon engineers, scientists and academic institutions to harness Jammu and Kashmirs abundant biomass resources to develop locally suited, economically viable and environmentally sustainable solutions for reducing dependence on fossil fuels and decarbonizing the economy. The Chief Minister was addressing the inaugural session of the 41st National Convention of Chemical Engineers and National Seminar on Biomass: A Sustainable Resource for Decarbonizing the Economy, organized under the aegis of the Chemical Engineering Division Board of The Institution of Engineers (India) (IEI) in association with the Department of Chemical Engineering, NIT Srinagar, at the IEI J&K State Centre here. Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Vice Chancellor University of Kashmir Prof. Nelofer Khan, Director NIT Srinagar Anurag Mishra, Chairman IEI J&K State Centre Ferdous Ahad Bhat, Chairman Chemical Engineering Division Board, FIE, Prof. G. Madhu, besides engineers, academicians and other experts attended the two-day national convention and seminar. Highlighting the significance of the convention being held in Jammu & Kashmir after a gap of several decades, the Chief Minister said the last National Convention of the IEI held in J&K had taken place in early 1989. For us, to have all of you present for the 41st National Convention, organized by our own NIT Srinagar and the Chemical Engineering Division Board, is a significant moment, he said, while expressing appreciation to the organizers for choosing biomass and decarbonization as the central theme of the convention. The Chief Minister said the need to reduce dependence on carbon-based fuels had become increasingly urgent, both from the perspective of energy security and the growing environmental consequences of using fossil-fuel. He said recent pressures on fuel supplies had underlined the vulnerabilities associated with excessive dependence on carbon-based energy sources, while the consequences of unchecked fossil-fuel use were becoming increasingly visible in the form of global warming and climate-related disasters. Those of us who are roughly around my age or maybe a little older have seen with our own eyes the way in which our glaciers are retreating and shrinking, Omar Abdullah said, highlighting the particular vulnerability of the Himalayan region to climate change. Referring to the Thajiwas glacier near Sonamarg, the Chief Minister said the extent of glacier retreat could be understood from personal experience. We have only to travel two hours out of Srinagar to go to Sonamarg to see the Thajiwas glacier there, he said, recalling that it was once possible to reach the foot of the glacier after a short walk, whereas today it requires a considerably longer trek. He said such changes offered a stark reminder of the environmental consequences of the continued and unchecked use of fossil fuels. However, the Chief Minister cautioned that moving away from a carbon-based economy could not be achieved simply by switching from one energy source to another overnight. Economically viable, sustainable, environmentally friendly solutions are the need of the hour, he said, stressing that alternative energy solutions must be capable of competing economically with established sources of power. Omar Abdullah pointed out that Jammu & Kashmir possessed significant biomass resources generated through agriculture, horticulture, forests, municipal waste and increasing consumption. We are sitting on a wealth of biomass whether we like it or not, he said, adding that the challenge was to develop effective mechanisms for converting this resource into useful energy. The Chief Minister said Jammu and Kashmir had so far struggled to develop a workable and sustainable model for waste-to-energy, despite generating sufficient waste to support such initiatives. He observed that the economic viability of waste-to-energy projects remained a major challenge, particularly when compared with relatively cheaper sources such as solar and hydropower. At the same time, he stressed that economic considerations could not be the only factor determining the future of waste management and energy policy. We will have to do it, he said, underlining the need to address not only the problem of legacy waste but also the continuously increasing generation of organic waste that could potentially be converted into energy. The Chief Minister also recalled his efforts during his previous tenure to explore the possibility of converting plant material harvested from Dal Lake into biofuel, in collaboration with higher education institutions, particularly the agricultural university. He said that while the idea had so far remained largely at the discussion stage, such initiatives needed to be pursued with greater determination and through practical experimentation. Drawing from a personal experience at a boarding school in Himachal Pradesh, the Chief Minister illustrated how seemingly unconventional ideas could eventually become successful and practical solutions. He recalled how one of his teachers had proposed establishing a poultry farm at the school to ensure an in-house supply of eggs. The teacher then went a step further by exploring the possibility of converting poultry waste into biogas. What initially may seem to others as a pipe dream or may even for people evoke mockery, actually, in the long term, if you keep going at it, people will realize that the mockery was wrong and the vision was actually the correct thing, Omar Abdullah said. He said the school ultimately developed a workable system in which poultry waste was converted into biogas, which was then transported almost a kilometre to the central dining hall and used to reduce dependence on fossil fuels for cooking. The Chief Minister urged scientists, engineers and academic institutions not to be discouraged by unsuccessful experiments while working on new technologies and solutions. Let us not be afraid of failure, he said, stressing that experimentation and learning from unsuccessful attempts were essential for technological progress. He cited the example of Thomas Edison and his approach to experimentation while developing the electric light bulb, as well as contemporary technological ventures where failed experiments provide valuable data for subsequent innovations. Omar Abdullah called for the collective intellectual capacity of the engineers, scientists and institutions participating in the convention to be channeled towards developing practical projects capable of addressing Jammu and Kashmirs specific requirements. We need to commit the awesome brain power that is present in this room, or that is represented by the institutions that are present here, to arrive at workable, sustainable, economically viable projects, he said. He emphasized that solutions for biomass utilization could not simply be replicated from one part of the country to another, given the differences in available resources, geography, climate and local conditions. The biomass of Jammu and Kashmir will not be the same as the biomass of Maharashtra, will not be the same as the biomass of Tamil Nadu, he said, calling for greater emphasis on localized and indigenized solutions. The Chief Minister suggested that the deliberations of the convention should culminate in concrete recommendations that could be examined by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir and subsequently shared with governments in other parts of the country as well as the Government of India. He said the objective should be to identify technologies and models that could simultaneously address waste management, energy generation, environmental sustainability and economic viability. Let us arrive at localized, sustainable, economical solutions, he said, emphasizing that Jammu and Kashmir should seek to utilize biomass that is available locally rather than depend on resources brought in from outside. The Chief Minister said the ultimate objective of such efforts should be to gradually move the economy away from excessive carbon dependence while protecting the environment for future generations. We have to be able to give them a planet that is more sustainable than the planet that we have inherited from our forefathers, he said, referring to the young participants and students present at the convention. He expressed hope that the two-day national convention would produce actionable recommendations and practical ideas capable of translating scientific research into field-level solutions. If we are able to do that, I believe this national convention will more than have met the goals that it set for itself, he said. The Chief Minister wished the participants and organizers success in their deliberations and expressed hope for continued engagement with the Institution of Engineers (India) and the engineering and academic community in Jammu and Kashmir.
Former Indian Air Force Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman joins regional airline FLY91 as pilot
FLY91, which started flying in March 2024, currently operates a fleet of six ATR 72-600 aircraft. The airline's two bases are Goa and Hyderabad
Quality Education and AI: A Defining Test for Our Future
DR MOMIN DARVESH In every generation, there comes a moment when society is forced to ask what kind of future it wants to build. For ours, that question is increasingly tied to two powerful forces: quality education and artificial intelligence. One is the foundation of human progress; the other is the most disruptive technology of our time. Together, they can either widen opportunity or deepen inequality. The outcome will depend not on technology alone, but on the choices we make today. Education has always been more than the transfer of information. It is the process through which individuals learn to think, question, create, and participate in society. A quality education gives a child confidence, discipline, and the ability to adapt to change. It shapes the moral and intellectual character of a nation. Yet across much of our region, and indeed in many parts of the world, education still struggles with familiar problems: weak learning outcomes, rote methods, outdated curricula, poor infrastructure, and a widening gap between what is taught and what the world demands. This is where artificial intelligence enters the discussion. AI is no longer a distant concept reserved for laboratories or tech companies. It is already influencing how we write, search, learn, work, and communicate. In education, it can be a powerful tool. It can help teachers personalize lessons, identify learning gaps, support students who struggle, and reduce the burden of repetitive administrative work. It can make learning more interactive and accessible, especially for students in remote or underserved areas. In a country where the quality of schooling varies sharply from one institution to another, AI could become a bridge to more equal opportunities. But technology is not a miracle cure. AI cannot fix an education system that is broken at its core. A classroom without trained teachers, reliable electricity, internet access, basic facilities, or a serious commitment to learning will not suddenly become excellent because a machine has been introduced. In fact, if used carelessly, AI can deepen the very problems it promises to solve. Students may begin to depend too much on automated tools, lose the habit of original thinking, or use AI to bypass the hard work that genuine learning requires. Schools may celebrate digital tools while neglecting the human relationships that make education meaningful. That is why the real debate should not be whether AI should enter education, but how it should be used. The first priority must remain quality. AI should support teachers, not replace them. It should assist learning, not weaken it. It should expand curiosity, not encourage shortcuts. If education is to prepare children for an uncertain future, then it must teach them how to think critically about AI itself its benefits, its limits, its ethics, and its social consequences. A quality education system in the age of AI must rest on several pillars. First, teachers need training. No technology can succeed if the people using it are not equipped to understand it. Teachers should be helped to use AI tools confidently and responsibly, so they can integrate them into lessons in a meaningful way. Second, the curriculum must evolve. Students need more than memorised facts; they need digital literacy, problem-solving skills, ethical awareness, creativity, and the ability to distinguish truth from misinformation. Third, access must be fair. AI tools should not become a privilege of elite schools and wealthy families alone. If that happens, the digital divide will become even more dangerous than the educational divide we already know. There is also a larger social question. What kind of human beings do we want education to produce? If the goal is only to create workers who can operate machines, then we will have misunderstood the purpose of education. But if the goal is to produce responsible citizens, thoughtful leaders, skilled professionals, and compassionate human beings, then AI can be used in service of that vision. The true value of education lies not merely in efficiency, but in wisdom. And wisdom is something no machine can provide on its own. We should also be cautious of the fashionable idea that every problem must be solved through automation. In education, as in life, there are no shortcuts to excellence. Reading widely, writing clearly, discussing ideas, questioning assumptions, and learning from failure remain essential. AI may make these processes faster or more efficient, but it cannot make them unnecessary. If anything, the rise of AI should push us to value human judgment more deeply, not less. For governments, educators, and institutions, the task ahead is clear. Invest in schools. Train teachers. Update curricula. Build digital infrastructure. Set ethical guidelines for AI use. Encourage innovation, but never at the expense of equity and quality. The goal should be to create an education system that is modern without being mechanical, innovative without being shallow, and technological without losing its human soul. In the end, the relationship between quality education and artificial intelligence is not one of competition, but of responsibility. AI will shape the future in ways we are only beginning to understand. Education will determine whether that future is inclusive, intelligent, and humane. If we get education right, AI can become a force for liberation. If we get it wrong, even the smartest machines will not save us. That is the real challenge before us: not just to adopt AI, but to ensure that it serves a well-educated society capable of using it wisely. The future will belong not to those who merely possess technology, but to those who can pair it with knowledge, character, and vision. (The author is a lecturer in HED and a columnist)
Rana stresses sustainable water security for J&K
New Delhi, Sep 2: Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Jal Shakti Javed Ahmed Rana participated in the two-day Departmental Summit of the Ministry of Jal Shakti at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, where he highlighted the Union Territorys priorities and challenges in the water sector. The summit brought together senior officials and stakeholders to discuss the implementation of water-sector programmes and measures to strengthen water security across the country. Deliberations focused on timely execution of water infrastructure projects, rainwater conservation and harvesting, sustainability of water sources, and effective operation and maintenance of rural drinking water supply systems. Sharing J&Ks perspective and field-level experiences, Rana stressed the need for sustained coordination between the Centre and the Union Territory to expedite critical water infrastructure projects and ensure timely delivery of benefits to the people. He called for a comprehensive and sustainable approach to water management, with greater emphasis on source sustainability, conservation, climate-resilient infrastructure and the long-term functionality of rural drinking water systems. Rana also underscored the importance of robust operation and maintenance mechanisms to ensure reliable and uninterrupted water supply, particularly in rural and remote areas of Jammu and Kashmir. The minister reiterated the J&K governments commitment to sustainable water security and dependable drinking water services for every household, stressing that effective Centre-UT coordination, sound planning, efficient implementation and regular monitoring would be key to achieving these goals. The summit provided a platform for officials and stakeholders to share experiences, discuss challenges and explore coordinated strategies for strengthening water services and ensuring reliable, sustainable and people-centric water supply.
Former Indian Air Force Group Captain and Vir Chakra awardee Abhinandan Varthaman has joined Goa-based regional airline FLY91 as a pilot. Sources told PTI that Varthaman joined the airline in August. However, further details about...
J&K U/17 Boys, Girls lift bronze medals in NZ National Cship held at Dehradun
Srinagar, Sep 2: Mini U/11 & U/17 Boys and Girls Categories North Zone Roll Ball National Championship 2026 was held at Parade Ground and Shukun Sports Academy Dehradun on August 29 to 31, 2026, with full sports enthusiasm and sprit. J&K boys and girls participated in the U/11 & U/17 Categories respectively. In the Boys U/17 category, the team was comprised of: Omaik Bagdadi as Captain, with Agrim, Bhavyansh, Medhansh Kumar, Ahamdeep, Yogeshwar Tanesh Kumar, Rasiq Khan, Zehraan, Anas Bin Yassin, Mohammad Aneef and Sunandas. While as in Girls U/17 category, Qurat ul Ain was leading as Captain, with Eleeza Mukhdomi as goalkeeper, Meera Verma, Arushema Mir, Areeba, Aliza, Dhwani, Nanda. The teams were led by M. Ashraf Dijoo Chief Coach, assisted by Manvi Vijay Singh, Suresh Kumar and Sameer Gupta. Both the teams (boys and girls) played very well and proved their mettle in the championship and won bronze medals. U. P State emerged as the overall winners. The girls team captain Qurat ul Ain on her best performance in the championship was awarded a Bicycle as a best Scorer of the Championship. She was also awarded a bicycle in Agra Nationals held last year. Omaik Bagdadi, J&K team Captain also Shown the best performance in the Championship by Scoring overall 10 goals. U/11boys also participated Ist time at the National Level Shows Best Performance in the Championship. Roll Ball Association of UT J&K is doing its best for the development of this indigenous game in the State under the aegis of JK Sports Council. At the concluding ceremony, all the coaches and referees were felicitated with an award of honour.
Harness J&Ks biomass potential to cut fossil fuel dependence: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah
Srinagar, Sep 2:Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today called upon engineers, scientists and academic institutions to harness Jammu and Kashmirs abundant biomass resources to develop locally suited, economically viable and environmentally sustainable solutions for reducing dependence on fossil fuels and decarbonizing the economy. The Chief Minister was addressing the inaugural session of the 41st National Convention of Chemical Engineers and National Seminar on Biomass: A Sustainable Resource for Decarbonizing the Economy, organized under the aegis of the Chemical Engineering Division Board of The Institution of Engineers (India) (IEI) in association with the Department of Chemical Engineering, NIT Srinagar, at the IEI J&K State Centre here. Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Vice Chancellor University of Kashmir Prof. Nelofer Khan, Director NIT Srinagar Anurag Mishra, Chairman IEI J&K State Centre FerdousAhad Bhat, Chairman Chemical Engineering Division Board, FIE, Prof. G. Madhu, besides engineers, academicians and other experts attended the two-day national convention and seminar. Highlighting the significance of the convention being held in Jammu & Kashmir after a gap of several decades, the Chief Minister said the last National Convention of the IEI held in J&K had taken place in early 1989. For us, to have all of you present for the 41st National Convention, organised by our own NIT Srinagar and the Chemical Engineering Division Board, is a significant moment, he said, while expressing appreciation to the organisers for choosing biomass and decarbonization as the central theme of the convention. The Chief Minister said the need to reduce dependence on carbon-based fuels had become increasingly urgent, both from the perspective of energy security and the growing environmental consequences of using fossil-fuel. He said recent pressures on fuel supplies had underlined the vulnerabilities associated with excessive dependence on carbon-based energy sources, while the consequences of unchecked fossil-fuel use were becoming increasingly visible in the form of global warming and climate-related disasters. Those of us who are roughly around my age or maybe a little older have seen with our own eyes the way in which our glaciers are retreating and shrinking, Omar Abdullah said, highlighting the particular vulnerability of the Himalayan region to climate change. Referring to the Thajiwas glacier near Sonamarg, the Chief Minister said the extent of glacier retreat could be understood from personal experience. We have only to travel two hours out of Srinagar to go to Sonamarg to see the Thajiwas glacier there, he said, recalling that it was once possible to reach the foot of the glacier after a short walk, whereas today it requires a considerably longer trek. He said such changes offered a stark reminder of the environmental consequences of the continued and unchecked use of fossil fuels. However, the Chief Minister cautioned that moving away from a carbon-based economy could not be achieved simply by switching from one energy source to another overnight. Economically viable, sustainable, environmentally friendly solutions are the need of the hour, he said, stressing that alternative energy solutions must be capable of competing economically with established sources of power. Omar Abdullah pointed out that Jammu & Kashmir possessed significant biomass resources generated through agriculture, horticulture, forests, municipal waste and increasing consumption. We are sitting on a wealth of biomass whether we like it or not, he said, adding that the challenge was to develop effective mechanisms for converting this resource into useful energy. The Chief Minister said Jammu and Kashmir had so far struggled to develop a workable and sustainable model for waste-to-energy, despite generating sufficient waste to support such initiatives. He observed that the economic viability of waste-to-energy projects remained a major challenge, particularly when compared with relatively cheaper sources such as solar and hydropower. At the same time, he stressed that economic considerations could not be the only factor determining the future of waste management and energy policy. We will have to do it, he said, underlining the need to address not only the problem of legacy waste but also the continuously increasing generation of organic waste that could potentially be converted into energy. The Chief Minister also recalled his efforts during his previous tenure to explore the possibility of converting plant material harvested from Dal Lake into biofuel, in collaboration with higher education institutions, particularly the agricultural university. He said that while the idea had so far remained largely at the discussion stage, such initiatives needed to be pursued with greater determination and through practical experimentation. Drawing from a personal experience at a boarding school in Himachal Pradesh, the Chief Minister illustrated how seemingly unconventional ideas could eventually become successful and practical solutions. He recalled how one of his teachers had proposed establishing a poultry farm at the school to ensure an in-house supply of eggs. The teacher then went a step further by exploring the possibility of converting poultry waste into biogas. What initially may seem to others as a pipe dream or may even for people evoke mockery, actually, in the long term, if you keep going at it, people will realize that the mockery was wrong and the vision was actually the correct thing, Omar Abdullah said. He said the school ultimately developed a workable system in which poultry waste was converted into biogas, which was then transported almost a kilometre to the central dining hall and used to reduce dependence on fossil fuels for cooking. The Chief Minister urged scientists, engineers and academic institutions not to be discouraged by unsuccessful experiments while working on new technologies and solutions. Let us not be afraid of failure, he said, stressing that experimentation and learning from unsuccessful attempts were essential for technological progress. He cited the example of Thomas Edison and his approach to experimentation while developing the electric light bulb, as well as contemporary technological ventures where failed experiments provide valuable data for subsequent innovations. Omar Abdullah called for the collective intellectual capacity of the engineers, scientists and institutions participating in the convention to be channeled towards developing practical projects capable of addressing Jammu and Kashmirs specific requirements. We need to commit the awesome brain power that is present in this room, or that is represented by the institutions that are present here, to arrive at workable, sustainable, economically viable projects, he said. He emphasized that solutions for biomass utilization could not simply be replicated from one part of the country to another, given the differences in available resources, geography, climate and local conditions. The biomass of Jammu and Kashmir will not be the same as the biomass of Maharashtra, will not be the same as the biomass of Tamil Nadu, he said, calling for greater emphasis on localized and indigenized solutions. The Chief Minister suggested that the deliberations of the convention should culminate in concrete recommendations that could be examined by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir and subsequently shared with governments in other parts of the country as well as the Government of India. He said the objective should be to identify technologies and models that could simultaneously address waste management, energy generation, environmental sustainability and economic viability. Let us arrive at localised, sustainable, economical solutions, he said, emphasizing that Jammu and Kashmir should seek to utilize biomass that is available locally rather than depend on resources brought in from outside. The Chief Minister said the ultimate objective of such efforts should be to gradually move the economy away from excessive carbon dependence while protecting the environment for future generations. We have to be able to give them a planet that is more sustainable than the planet that we have inherited from our forefathers, he said, referring to the young participants and students present at the convention. He expressed hope that the two-day national convention would produce actionable recommendations and practical ideas capable of translating scientific research into field-level solutions. If we are able to do that, I believe this national convention will more than have met the goals that it set for itself, he said. The Chief Minister wished the participants and organizers success in their deliberations and expressed hope for continued engagement with the Institution of Engineers (India) and the engineering and academic community in Jammu and Kashmir.
What Foreign Founders Can Learn From Korea
Startups do not usually fail because nobody gives them a desk. They fail because the right engineer, buyer, researcher, investor or test environment is just out of reach when the company needs it most. That is one of my key takeaways after visiting Pangyo Techno Valley , Koreas large technology cluster south of Seoul. The location is often compared with Silicon Valley, but the more useful comparison is not about famous companies or startup valuations. It is about physical design. Pangyo puts young companies, established tech firms, accelerators, public-sector support staff, research organizations and specialized facilities in close proximity. The goal is to reduce the friction between having an idea and proving it works outside a slide deck. During a recent visit, I met with officials from the Gyeonggido Business & Science Accelerator, or GBSA, at the Pangyo Startup Campus. GBSA is not a startup or an investment fund. It is a public, nonprofit agency that supports businesses in Gyeonggi Province and helps operate parts of the Pangyo ecosystem. The most interesting part of the conversation was not that GBSA offers startup office space. Plenty of places do that. It was the idea that a startups physical location can become an operating advantage when it puts the company close to people and facilities that can help answer expensive questions: Can/how this product be tested? Is there a research partner who understands the problem? Can someone introduce the team to a pilot customer? Is there public support available before the company burns another six months of runway? In the West, startup support is often scattered. An accelerator may be downtown, a university lab may be across town, a corporate partner may be in another state, and a government program may be administered through a separate agency with little day-to-day contact with founders. It is effective, Silicon Valley itself proves it, but it creates more coordination and requires more network power for the startup. Pangyos model is more intentionally concentrated. GBSA officials described a campus that brings together startups, 19 accelerators and support institutions, with research organizations nearby. The agencys public Startup Campus program supports prospective founders and technology startups up to seven years old, separating its space offerings across pre-startup, early-stage and growth-stage companies. ( see GBSAs Startup Campus program ) A team with only an idea does not need the same help as a company with early revenue, and neither needs exactly what a more mature deep-tech company needs. Deep-tech startups, in particular, can spend years moving from concept to a working demonstration because access to equipment, specialists and credible test environments is limited. GBSA officials said they run public proof-of-concept projects that select roughly 20 to 30 companies, give them access to relevant facilities for six months to a year, and provide up to KRW 20 million in support. Those are interview-sourced program details, not available to every applicant. For those who have access, it may unlock a demonstration, experiment or technical relationship that a small startup could not arrange alone. This is where physical density becomes more than real estate or convenience. A startup campus is useful when being there shortens the path to a researcher, an accelerator, a public testbed or an enterprise conversation. The value is to shorten and accelerate the iteration loop through which all great startups use seeking the perfect product. The agency is also trying to orient that model around the next set of technology priorities. Officials said Gyeonggi Province is emphasizing AI, while related programs are still being developed. They also said a fabless-specialized district is under discussion. Fabless companies design semiconductors but outsource manufacturing, avoiding the enormous cost of owning a chip fabrication plant (like NVIDIA). Both ideas should be treated as plans, not completed Pangyo initiatives, but they show an effort to direct the cluster toward AI, advanced mobility and semiconductor-related work. There is also a limited but potentially useful lesson for foreign founders. GBSA officials said there was no U.S. company on the campus at the time of our meeting, and I dont think theres a formal landing program for overseas startups. However, a foreign company with a Korean market question, an R&D need, a manufacturing connection or a partnership thesis could reasonably reach out and see whether there is synergy with the local ecosystem, in my opinion. (From left) Ubergizmo Editor-in-Chief Hubert Nguyen and Techno Valley Innovation Group Director So Yeon Lee take a commemorative photo after concluding the meetup. | Photo by AVING News (https://us.aving.net) GBSA already runs outward-facing support for Pangyo startups, including global acceleration, overseas commercialization funding, translation and interpretation in English, Chinese and Japanese, and investor-startup exchanges. Its published program lists support for 12 globally promising startups through acceleration, commercialization support for 20 tenant startups, 350 language-support cases and four investment-exchange events. That activity is mainly designed to help Korean companies go abroad, particularly toward the U.S. market. But the same connections can matter to foreign investors, accelerators, university labs and companies looking for Korean technology partners. In the end, buildings do not create innovation, and a campus can become an expensive real-estate project if its managers do not convert proximity into genuinely useful connections and outcomes. For founders out there, do not ask only whether an ecosystem has money or prestige. Ask whether it can help you make the next (very) expensive decision faster. What Foreign Founders Can Learn From Koreas Pangyo Model , original content from Ubergizmo . Read our Copyrights and terms of use .
Lovell FHCC lighting project remains a useful example of how sustainability goals can produce measurable results when they are connected to practical investments. Joining the Federal Green Challenge in 2011 gave the facility a broader environmental framework, while the LED retrofit translated that commitment into lower electricity demand, reduced emissions, maintenance savings and better lighting.
Celtic sign five in one day after Van den Berg & Lotomba arrive
Celtic complete loan deals for former England goalkeeper Sam Johnstone and teenage Chelsea duo Shumaira Mheuka and Landon Emenalo.
Making superconductors thinner can change how they accommodate magnetic fields
What happens when a superconductor becomes so thin that electrons can no longer behave as if they were moving through an ordinary three-dimensional piece of metal? This question has been at the center of my recent work on quantum confinement in metallic films. Over the past few years, I have been developing this line of theory with my colleague Giovanni Ummarino at Politecnico di Torino. Our initial goal was to understand something rather concrete: Why does shrinking the thickness of a superconducting film change the temperature at which superconductivity appears?
Pyrograzing turns ordinary livestock into fire prevention heroes, so why isn
In grasslands across the American West, four-legged fire prevention crews are busy at work, helping keep wildfire risk under control. These cattle, goats and sheep stomp down tall grasses as they munch their way through plants that could otherwise burn, lowering the risk of catastrophic fires in the process.
Goa police shunt PSI, suspend four others in discipline drive
Sub-inspector shifted over dispute in restaurant Panaji: Goa police on Wednesday initiated departmental action against newly recruited Police Sub-Inspector (PSI) Viraj Sawant, attached to the Porvorim police station, for reportedly misbehaving with restaurant staff during a dispute over food bill. The incident occurred at an establishment in Porvorim, prompting a complaint to be filed at []
Rs 200 crore integrated campus to come up on Goa varsity land: CM
Panaji: The state government will acquire around 2 lakh square metres of Goa University land on the Taleigao plateau to develop a common campus for five colleges, with the new Goa College of Pharmacy and Goa College of Architecture targeted for completion by next year, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said on Wednesday. Replying to the []
UN report says global warming will surpass the goal of 1.5 degrees Celsius
Climate scientists now aim to minimize time spent above the limit from the Paris Agreement.
Global road map tracks four years of infrastructure change using AI
The United Nations considers well-developed and safe roads an important part of infrastructure in its Sustainable Development Goals. Until now, however, there has been no benchmark for the condition and state of road networks worldwide. Researchers at the Institute of Geography at Heidelberg University and HeiGIT (Heidelberg Institute of Geoinformation Technology) have addressed this gap by using artificial intelligence and satellite imagery to create an open-access dataset that maps and classifies more than 9 million kilometers of roads worldwide.
3 years vs 5 years: How your investment strategy should change as your goal gets closer
Investment strategies should adapt as goals approach, particularly between three to five years. Moving away from high-risk equity is essential for protecting savings.
Global Development Initiative: A Prescription for Tackling Chronic Global Issues
Beijing, September 2: With only four years left to achieve the 2030 UN Sustainable Development Goals, the state of global development is flashing a red light. Out of 139 evaluation indicators, only 36 percent are progressing smoothly, while nearly half are moving at a sluggish pace, and about 15 percent have fallen below baseline levels. ... Read more Global Development Initiative: A Prescription for Tackling Chronic Global Issues
Quote of the day by Bruno Mars: Bruno Mars shared his strategy for achieving goals by envisioning the future. He believes in picturing your desired outcome and then working backward. This approach helps make distant aspirations feel more manageable and clear. Mars, born in 1985, began performing at a young age.
Acer Unveils Project DualPlay Mini, a Gaming Handheld That Turns Into a Tiny Laptop
Acer used the closing moments of its IFA 2026 press conference in Berlin to unveil Project DualPlay Mini , an experimental Predator gaming handheld that can transform into a small laptop, complete with an integrated physical keyboard and fold-out speakers. The concept explores an interesting question for the increasingly crowded Windows handheld market: instead of carrying a gaming handheld and a laptop, could one device realistically handle both? Project DualPlay Mini looks much like a conventional PC gaming handheld, with a central display flanked by game controls. Acer says it uses TMR joysticks and Hall-effect triggers , technologies designed to provide precise controls while reducing the mechanical wear that can eventually lead to stick drift. The concept is powered by an Intel processor , although Acer has not disclosed the exact chip. The unusual part becomes apparent when you open the device. A physical keyboard folds out from underneath the display, effectively turning the handheld into a miniature laptop. At the same time, two speaker wings deploy on either side of the screen , giving the system a distinctly unconventional appearance. During the presentation, Acer framed the design around three potential scenarios: gaming on the couch as a handheld, using it as a productivity machine while traveling, and connecting it to a larger monitor at a desk. Acer envisions this concept as a seamless transition between handheld gaming and notebook-style productivity. According to the company, users could play using the integrated controls, then open the device to work on documents, email, communication, or other everyday Windows tasks without carrying a second computer. The keyboard also changes how the DualPlay Mini could be used for PC gaming. Acer suggests pairing the integrated keyboard with a Bluetooth mouse, effectively providing conventional keyboard-and-mouse controls for first-person shooters while retaining the handheld form factor when those controls are not needed. Predator Cooling In a Much Stranger Form Factor Project DualPlay Mini uses Predator AeroBlade cooling , combining ultra-thin metal fan blades with the companys Vortex Flow cooling technology.Acer claims the system can improve airflow by up to 10% compared with a conventional plastic fan , based on its internal testing. The goal is to maintain performance during extended gaming sessions despite the compact chassis. The company did not reveal other important specifications such as display resolution and refresh rate, battery capacity, RAM, storage, processor model, dimensions, or weight. And importantly, this is still a concept rather than an announced retail product . Acer has not provided pricing or a release date, and the company notes that the images may not represent a final production device. Acer Unveils Project DualPlay Mini, a Gaming Handheld That Turns Into a Tiny Laptop , original content from Ubergizmo . Read our Copyrights and terms of use .
Quote of the Day by Jane Fonda: Jane Fondas quote, The secret of losing weight is patience, explores the importance of patience, consistency, realistic expectations, and a balanced approach to health and fitness. The quote suggests that meaningful physical changes take time and that sustainable progress comes from developing healthy habits rather than expecting immediate results. It encourages people to remain committed to their goals while treating themselves with patience and self-respect.
Jack Daniel's maker misses sales estimates on weak consumer spending
Brown-Forman's first-quarter sales fell short of expectations, yet the company reaffirmed its annual financial goals. Economic worries from inflation and job market uncertainties are curbing consumer spending on alcohol, stabilizing whiskey sales while ready-to-drink products thrived. Similarly, competitor Pernod Ricard reported weakened demand in critical global markets. After releasing this information, Brown-Forman's shares experienced a modest bump.
IPO-bound Simple Energy eyes large fundraise to enhance production capacity, supply chain
The electric two-wheeler manufacturer Simple Energy is on the hunt for significant capital investment to elevate its production capabilities and fortify its supply chain operations. The target is to ramp up production to 10,000-12,000 scooters by March, a vital step towards claiming market leadership within eighteen months. Once the funding is secured and production goals met, ambitious IPO strategies are set to follow.
The hips mobility workout that everyone is skipping could be holding back your fitness goals, experts give a low down
Fed's Williams ties rising bond yields to strong economy, CNBC reports
John Williams, the President of the New York Fed, emphasizes the impact of robust economic growth on increasing bond yields. He highlights the Federal Reserve's essential role in managing inflation and achieving its goals. As he continues to analyze data for upcoming interest rate adjustments, recent economic indicators show promise in reducing price pressures. The central bank remains vigilant, ready to adapt its strategies based on new information.
A.P. CM Naidu stresses river interlinking to transform Uttarandhra into Uttamandhra
The Godavari water will reach Visakhapatnam by next year and Srikakulam in future, realising the goal of its interlinking with Vamsadhara River, says the Chief Minister
Quote of the Day by Ashanti: Ashantis quote, I think my motto is to always remain focused on what it is that you're trying to accomplish, explores the importance of focus, determination, discipline, and commitment in achieving personal goals. The quote suggests that staying focused on a clear objective can help people overcome distractions, remain motivated during difficult moments, and continue working toward success without losing sight of what they want to accomplish.
Chief Election Commissioner Highlights Role of Booth Level Officers in Goa
Panaji, September 2: Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar engaged with Booth Level Officers (BLOs) across Goa on Wednesday. He described BLOs as the foundational pillars of the worlds largest democracy and the primary point of contact between the Election Commission of India (ECI) and citizens. Over 1,000 BLOs from various regions of the state ... Read more Chief Election Commissioner Highlights Role of Booth Level Officers in Goa
Akshay Kumar has begun shooting for Samuk, an upcoming survival-action thriller directed by Kanishk Varma and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, along with co-producer Aashin A. Shah. The film, which is being mounted on a large scale for a pan-Indian theatrical release, has reportedly been in development for over two years. Samuk is set to combine elements of military realism, survival horror and alien mythology. The makers have also brought international talent on board to create the world and action of the film. Academy Award-nominated creature designer Alec Gillis, known for his work on films including Alien and Predator, is designing the central creature, while British action director Luke Tumber is overseeing the film's action sequences. The project marks another collaboration between Akshay Kumar and Vipul Amrutlal Shah, who have previously worked together across multiple genres. Their collaborations have included films such as Aankhen, Waqt: The Race Against Time, Namastey London, Singh Is Kinng, Action Replayy and Holiday: A Soldier Is Never Off Duty. Speaking about their decision to reunite for Samuk and the creative approach behind their collaborations, producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah said, The reason Akshay and I keep coming back to each other is that we have never wanted to make the same film twice. Every time we collaborate, the goal is to break our own mold, whether it was taking a risk with a heist thriller like Aankhen, exploring emotional drama with Waqt, capturing iconic romance in Namastey London, bringing massive action-comedy in Singh Is Kinng, experimenting with sci-fi in Action Replayy, or delivering military action in Holiday. We constantly challenge each other to step into unexplored territory. Reuniting for Samuk, which is an alien-survival thriller, proves yet again that we always bring something different to the table. With Samuk, the makers are looking to take their collaboration into a new genre space. The film aims to combine Akshay Kumar's star presence with international creature design and practical action, while maintaining a grounded approach to its survival-driven narrative. As the project progresses, further details about the film's storyline, ensemble cast and release plans are expected to be announced by the makers. Samuk is being positioned as a theatrical spectacle that brings together Indian filmmaking and international expertise in science-fiction and action. Also Read: Akshay Kumar vs Saif Ali Khan: The Haiwaan trailer sets up a gripping face-off
Govt mulls BIS exemption for high-tech companies setting up plants in India
The government has announced new exemptions for high-tech companies, allowing them to bypass BIS certification to streamline the setup of manufacturing units in India. Concerns were raised by Japanese semiconductor companies over certification hurdles for components. This strategy is designed to ensure rapid availability of equipment, supporting the overarching goals of the Make in India initiative.
IPS Officer Transferred From Ladakh to Delhi
SRINAGAR: The Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday ordered the transfer of IPS officer Vikas Kumar, a 2013-batch officer of the Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram-Union Territories (AGMUT) cadre, from Ladakh to Delhi with immediate effect. According to the order issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Kumar has been transferred to Delhi until further orders. The order []
'Rs 30 Lakh Payment' Audio Surfaces In Goa Project Extortion Probe
The controversy over the project had earlier led to protests by residents and activists in the Karapur-Sarvan area.
Maryland invested $12 million in a fish lift to help migrating shad overcome the Conowingo Dam. This technological solution proved ineffective, moving only a fraction of the targeted fish annually. Experts now favor dam removal over fish passage structures like lifts and ladders. The state is investing $340 million in environmental upgrades and trucking fish past the dam. This situation reflects costly infrastructure projects that under-delivered on their initial goals.
India's auto component industry targets $200 bln turnover by FY30 amid rising risks: BCG-ACMA
India's auto component sector aims for $200 billion turnover by FY30. Achieving this goal requires greater resilience against rising costs and shortages. The industry has seen significant growth over the past decade despite disruptions. Strong domestic demand and increasing exports will support future expansion. Companies must focus on capability building and technological advancements for sustained growth.
South Zone Triumphs Over North Zone in Dilip Trophy Semifinal
Bengaluru, September 2: In an impressive display, South Zone defeated North Zone by 7 wickets in the second semifinal of the Dilip Trophy. Chasing a target of 181 runs set by North Zone, South Zone achieved the goal comfortably, losing only 3 wickets in the process. Captain Tilak Varma showcased a remarkable performance with the ... Read more South Zone Triumphs Over North Zone in Dilip Trophy Semifinal
Goa Assembly passes Bill to drop leprosy references from child law to curb stigma
The legislative change aligns with a Supreme Court directive aimed at promoting inclusivity and ensuring that vulnerable populations receive equitable healthcare
HYBE India expands talent hunt initiative to eight more cities
The South Korean entertainment giant, which recently opened its India branch, will extend its on-ground search to Lucknow, Dimapur, Kohima, Shillong, Jaipur, Indore, Goa and Kochi following a strong response to the first round of auditions.
Indiana engineering students build wearable to help visually impaired users
Rose-Hulman students have developed a remarkable wearable device tailored for visually impaired individuals. This innovative headgear employs advanced sensors to identify surrounding obstacles, providing users with haptic feedback. With a remarkable twelve-hour battery life on a single charge, this device empowers users with greater independence. The project's goal is to enhance the day-to-day experiences of those with vision impairments.
GATE 2027 Registration Opens Today: Essential Steps to Apply on GOAPS Without Errors
GATE 2027 registration opens today on the GOAPS portal. Learn how to apply, check the latest exam dates, fee structure, eligibility criteria, and essential document requirements to ensure a successful application.
Goa Assembly clears bill stipulating 7-year jail for assault on lawyers
The legislation makes every offence committed under its provisions cognisable and also provides for compensation to advocates from fines recovered by courts
Makaibari to tie up with small tea growers in Darjeeling
The group set a goal to purchase 25% of its requirement from the small growers and blend them with its own production. These small growers are supposed to get the equal proportion from the total profit while the Luxmi Group is confident to achieve a 20% boost annually with this new intiative
NIT Goa Faculty Recruitment 2026 - Walkin
National Institute of Technology Goa (NIT Goa) Recruitment 2026 for 1 post of Faculty. Candidates with M.Sc. with Ph.D can attend Walkin. The Walk-in on 08-09-2026. For detailed information please visit NIT Goa official website.
Pooja Ranveer said her mother is deeply committed to education and has always encouraged her children to study. She recalled that her father died in an accident in Mumbai. Pooja said she dreams of becoming a police officer and is studying to achieve that goal. She also shared that she previously worked in farming before focusing on her education and preparing for a career in the police force.
Whoop Promo Codes: 20% Off This September 2026
Whether you're looking for a Whoop free trial, student discount, or military savings, our guide to Whoop promo codes will help you maximize your membership benefits. Stay on top of your fitness goals for less.
NIT Goa Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online for 28 Professor, Assistant Professor and More Posts
National Institute of Technology Goa (NIT Goa) has released the Recruitment 2026 notification for 28 vacancies, including Professor, Assistant Professor and other faculty posts. The online application process will be conducted up to 30 September 2026. Interested candidates can apply online through the official website, NIT Goa.
Tata Sons succession search stalls as regulatory hurdle blocks Trusts nominee
Tata Group's chairman succession search remains stalled due to regulatory issues. Sir Ratan Tata Trust cannot meet, preventing its representative nomination. This delay deepens leadership uncertainty for India's oldest conglomerate. The complex ownership structure raises governance and transparency concerns. Investors and policymakers await reassurance on future manufacturing and tech goals.
Goa tightens prison rules, 3-year jail term for phone possession inside jails
Goa tightens prison rules year jail term for phone possession inside jails
U.N. Says World Will Miss Its 1.5 Degree Climate Target
It proposed a new goal of limiting the
GATE 2027 Registration - Check GOAPS Application Dates
GATE 2027 registration is live at gate2027.iitm.ac.in via GOAPS. Check important dates, eligibility, application fee, DigiLocker requirement, documents needed, and the step-by-step process to apply online for GATE 2027.
Japanese content creator Hanna documented her three-month solo backpacking journey across India. She highlighted 5 favorite destinations that left a lasting impression on her heart. Varanasi emerged as her top choice, captivating her with its unique energy and street food. Dharamshala offered adventure and introspection through meditation and trekking experiences. Meghalaya, Hampi, and Ellora Caves also provided distinct and memorable travel encounters.
Worn out balls take centre stage at MSSA Ahmed Sailor U-16 match
The ball kept swerving weirdly, making it difficult for me to judge while catching it. Even the bounce was irregular, said Scottish goalkeeper Avneesh Patil.
Ranking Lionel Messis three wonder strikes for Argentina!
This goal that demonstrated Messis other-worldly skill came against Nigeria in the group stage. It began with Ever Banega producing a lovely chipped ball from Argentinas own half to Messi.
'Chess diplomacy': AICF chief on PM Modi gifting Sindarovs WC sheet to Uzbek prez
Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev the original scoresheet from Javokhir Sindarovs 2025 World Cup final victory in Goa. AICF chief Nitin Narang called it Chess diplomacy. Sindarov later won the Candidates tournament and will face D Gukesh. The gesture highlights growing India-Uzbekistan chess rivalry ahead of the Chess Olympiad in Samarkand.
Ankur Warikoo shares 5 fun ways couples can manage money together without fighting over expenses
Ankur Warikoo shared five ways couples can make money management more enjoyable. He suggests reviewing bank expenses together without judgement, identifying unnecessary subscriptions or memberships, celebrating monthly financial wins, and saving towards shared goals. He also recommends doing something different with money every weekend, such as trying a new dessert or restaurant. Warikoos approach focuses on making financial conversations collaborative, positive and engaging rather than turning them into arguments over spending.
Security, connectivity, opportunity: PM Modis SCO call
New Delhi, Sep 1: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday called upon members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) to move beyond declarations and translate 25 years of cooperation into tangible outcomes, while urging a united approach to terrorism, stronger regional connectivity and greater opportunities for people. Addressing the 26th SCO Summit in Bishkek, PM Modi said the grouping must transform its shared geography into shared opportunities at a time when the world is passing through uncertainty and instability. It is a matter of great pleasure for me to be here amongst all of you on this special occasion of the 25th anniversary of the SCO, he said, thanking Kyrgyz President SadyrJaparov for the warm welcome and gracious hospitality extended to the Indian delegation. The PM also congratulated Kyrgyzstan on its Independence Day, which India observed with the country the previous day, and extended his warm greetings to the President and people of Uzbekistan on its Independence Day. He said the opening ceremony of the World Nomad Games had offered a glimpse of Kyrgyzstans rich culture and the shared heritage of SCO countries. This shared heritage and our deep people-to-people connections are among the great strengths of the SCO family, PM Modi said. He said that over the past 25 years, the SCO had developed a strong tradition of dialogue and cooperation across the vast expanse of Eurasia and had made valuable contributions not only to the well-being of its people but also to the advancement of humanity. The PM said the organisation had laid a strong foundation for cooperation, but the next 25 years should focus on converting that cooperation into tangible results. At a time when the world is passing through uncertainty and instability, we must transform our shared geography into shared opportunities. And through our efforts, we must bring about positive change in the lives of our people, he said. Recalling Indias vision for the SCO outlined at the previous meeting, PM Modi said its three main pillars were Security, Connectivity and Opportunity. He called for these three pillars to move beyond vision and be translated into concrete outcomes. The PM said peace and security were the first and foremost requirements for achieving those goals, warning that terrorism continued to pose a serious challenge to humanity as a whole. He said countries could not afford to limit the fight against terrorism to an action-reaction approach. We must dismantle the entire ecosystem of terrorist financing, recruitment, radicalisation, and safe havens, PM Modi said. He called upon SCO members to speak with one voice and make it clear that there could be no place for double standards on the serious issue of terrorism. We must send a strong message to countries that use terrorism as an instrument of policy and provide safe haven and support to terrorists that terrorism can never be a strategic asset for anyone, the PM said. He linked the SCOs shared aspiration for a peaceful and secure Eurasia with peace and stability in Afghanistan. PM Modi said India had been contributing to the development of Afghanistan and providing humanitarian assistance to its people and would continue to do so. He said that in todays interconnected world, the scope of security had become even broader, with the crisis in West Asia demonstrating that a conflict in one region did not remain confined to that region. The PM said its impact was felt across the world, affecting energy security, maritime trade and supply chains, with countries of the Global South bearing the greatest brunt of such disruptions. Therefore, India has consistently called for all tensions and conflicts to be resolved not on the battlefield, but through dialogue and diplomacy, he said. PM Modi also warned that drug trafficking was not merely a crime but a serious threat to the younger generation and regional security. He welcomed the establishment of SCO centres to address challenges such as security threats, organised crime, information security and narcotics. The PM called for these centres to be made effective instruments for practical coordination and timely action. He identified strong and reliable connectivity as the second pillar of shared development. PM Modi said India supported all efforts that connected markets, facilitated trade and opened new avenues for development. At the same time, he stressed that such connectivity initiatives must respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries. This is also the fundamental spirit of the SCO Charter, the PM said. He said the scope of connectivity would become even broader going forward. PM Modi said that along with roads, railways, and air corridors, countries must simplify customs processes, promote digital documentation and make logistics networks more efficient. The third pillar, Opportunity, means that the benefits of SCO cooperation should reach people directly, he said. The PM described people-to-people connections as the organisations greatest strength and said India viewed the SCO as a confluence of great civilisations, cultures and ideas. Over the next 25 years of the SCO, people-to-people ties should remain at the heart of cooperation, he said. PM Modi said the true measure of the organisations success should be the number of new opportunities its efforts created for young people, the number of new markets opened for entrepreneurs, the extent to which farmers benefited from technology and how much better the lives of citizens became. This is the true meaning of Security, Connectivity, and Opportunity, he said. The PM stressed that cooperation within the SCO should not be merely government-driven but should also be people-driven. He welcomed the special emphasis placed on youth engagement under Kyrgyzstans chairmanship. PM Modi said India had taken initiatives such as the SCO Start-up Forum, Young Authors Conclave and Young Scientists Forum. He also recalled Indias proposal last year for the SCO Civilizational Dialogue Forum. The PM said he was pleased that the first session of the forum would be held in India this year and expressed confidence that, with the active participation of all SCO members, it would become a strong platform for vibrant dialogue within the organisation. He invoked Kyrgyz literary figure ChingizAitmatov, saying the writer had given the world a beautiful and profound thought that people often focused more on the things that divided them and less on the things that united them. PM Modi said the message remained equally relevant for the SCO today. Our diversity is our identity, and our shared purpose is our strength, he said. The PM called upon SCO members to move forward from Bishkek with a resolve to transform their shared geography into shared opportunities, their vision into outcomes, and government-driven cooperation into people-driven partnership. With the same belief and commitment, India is ready to contribute to the SCO familys shared journey, he said.
Scorpio Daily Horoscope for September 02, 2026
You are likely to be in a more serious frame of mind. The practical issues of life are going to demand your attention today. But you are full of faith and optimism and are ready to take chances at the deepest emotional levels. Someone near to you will exhibit concerns regarding your aims and goals. Take the time to explain the situation to them. Read full Scorpio horoscope
From observing wetlands to designing for their recovery, Biopod+Co. brings its approach to Goa VINIKA VISWAMBHARAN What if the wetlands around us were not just landscapes to protect, but systems we could learn from? That question lies at the heart of Biopod+Co.s Designing with Nature, an exhibition at Sunaparanta Goa Centre for the Arts, Altinho, []
Towards complete health assurance
A look at the Goa model and the road ahead Dr. Manorama Bakshi & Dr. Arjun Kumar Indias health protection landscape has gradually moved from fragmented, state-specific insurance arrangements towards broader public assurance systems. Within this shift, Goa offers a distinctive model. Goas health assurance question The Deen Dayal Swasthya Seva Yojana (DDSSY) was introduced []
The state must fast-track the agriculture policy to stop coconut output decline Coconuts are an integral part of Goas cultural, economic and ecological fabric. The fruit forms the foundation of the states culinary traditions and religious rituals. Economically, it drives various small-scale industries such as the production of coconut oil, coir, copra, jaggery, yeast, and []
Just a few days after Pune, I was in Goa, which will go to the polls early next year. I saw there the familiar Congress problem: A party fighting itself rather than its principal opponent A fortnight ago, I was in Pune. And something rather unusual caught my eye. From hoardings to lampposts, from signboards []
South hosp tops patient referrals from PHCs, saw 6.9k cases in 2025
Posts of cardiologist, nephrologists, neurologist filled at south district hosp: Rane Margao: A majority of referrals from Primary Health Centres (PHCs) go to South Goa District Hospital (SGDH) and Goa Medical College (GMC), the government said on Tuesday. Information provided during the ongoing Assembly session stated that SGDH received 6,996 referrals from PHCs last year []
Voices, Not Victory: The Struggle for Youth Power
PROF. (DR) SUNIL GOYAL Indias youth policies have entered a new phase. The emphasis is no longer confined to enrolment in schools, recruitment into training programmes or participation in sporting events. The larger ambition is to create young citizens who can lead, innovate and shape the countrys future. This is essential for the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047, but it will succeed only if participation is transformed into genuine power. The figures suggest considerable progress. More than 50 lakh young people took part in the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026 quiz, leading to the identification of 6,000 youth leaders for a district-level database. The My Bharat platform has registered over 2.22 crore young people, while the National Service Scheme grew from 34.09 lakh volunteers in 201415 to 38.90 lakh in 202526. These developments point to a growing culture of civic engagement. However, participation should not become a numbers game. A youth platform is meaningful only when young people can influence decisions, monitor public programmes and see their ideas implemented. A quiz, a volunteering certificate or a short-term internship can generate enthusiasm, but leadership requires sustained responsibility and institutional access. Young citizens must be involved in local planning, municipal initiatives, school management, environmental action and public accountability. Digital platforms can help build this bridge. The Academic Bank of Credits, the National Credit Framework, SWAYAM and DIKSHA are expanding flexible and technology-enabled learning. More than 35.27 crore APAAR IDs had reportedly been issued by August 2026, while SWAYAM had recorded over 6.5 crore enrolments. These systems can make education more portable and accessible, especially for learners who cannot follow a conventional academic path. Yet digitisation also carries risks. Access to a platform does not mean equal access to learning. Poor connectivity, limited devices, language barriers and inadequate digital literacy can exclude precisely those students who need public support the most. Every digital reform must therefore be accompanied by investment in teachers, community facilities, accessible content and offline alternatives. Employment is another crucial measure of empowerment. The unemployment rate cited in the government backgrounder fell from 7.71 per cent in 2014 to 4.2 per cent in 2025. Skill programmes, apprenticeships and the Prime Ministers Internship Scheme are intended to improve employability. The internship scheme alone provided 1,64,902 opportunities across 31 sectors by August 12, 2026. But employment statistics must be read alongside job quality, informality, wages and security. A young person cannot be considered empowered if work is temporary, underpaid and disconnected from a viable career. Entrepreneurship offers an alternative route, with recognised start-ups rising to more than 2.47 lakh. But the start-up narrative should not obscure the needs of millions who seek ordinary employment. Economic policy must support both innovation-driven enterprises and labour-intensive sectors capable of creating large numbers of stable jobs. The same principle applies to sports and health. Khelo India has supported athletes, academies and infrastructure, while adolescent-friendly clinics and Tele-MANAS have expanded health and mental-health services. These are valuable investments, but they must reach smaller towns, villages and vulnerable communities. Mental health, substance-use prevention and physical fitness should be treated as essential public services, not optional additions. The true measure of youth empowerment is not how many young people are registered, trained or invited to participate. It is whether they possess the capabilities, confidence and institutional voice to shape their own lives and the country around them. Indias young citizens should not merely be mobilised for national goals; they must be trusted with a meaningful role in defining those goals. (The author is an Eminent S ocial S cientist , P rofessor and C olumnist , presently working at the Department of Higher Education, Government of Madhya Pradesh. He can be reached at email gasspub@gmail.com )
Best German Proverb of the Day: He who does not value the penny is not worthy of the dollar teaches that small amounts, efforts and opportunities should not be dismissed when pursuing greater goals. The German proverb highlights the importance of appreciating modest gains, practising responsibility and understanding that larger achievements are often built from smaller steps.
Banks seek CRR cut on green deposits to boost green lending in India
In a bid to boost climate and transition finance, banks are pressing for a lower cash reserve ratio for green deposits. Presently, estimates show that these deposits fall short of the necessary critical mass. A decreased CRR could significantly cut funding expenses and unlock capital for loans, as India strives for substantial investments to fulfill its net-zero goals.
DC Edit | ECs Six-crore Purge A Self-goal On SIR?
It is estimated that six crores of the 36 crore names in the electoral rolls in 16 states and three Union territories which conducted the SIR have been deleted in the third phase. The National Capital Territory of Delhi perhaps bore the worst brunt when it saw one in every three voters there being declared ineligible to vote
Brughmans joins Liverpool in deal worth up to 30m
Liverpool have secured the signing of teenage goalkeeper Lucca Brughmans for the start of the 2027-28 season.
DC Edit | Marathon Man Messi On His Last Legs
And having won almost everything the World Cup, Copa America (South American championship) and a clutch of European Champions League titles with his long-standing club Barcelona, for which he scored a whopping 120 goals at the Continental stage and 474 in the Spanish League there was nothing more left to achieve for the icon
Kamikatsu, a Japanese town, pursued a zero-waste goal starting in 2003. Residents meticulously sort waste into 45 categories at a central site. This system achieved an 81% recycling rate by 2016. However, some materials still required incineration outside the town. The town's waste management evolved over several decades from burning to extensive sorting.
1966 Kothari Education Commission remains critically relevant today
Not merely historical archive, but Magna Carta on Indian Education By Maninder Singh Bhatia The progress, prosperity, and future of any nation depend fundamentally on the quality of its education system. Following Indias independence, there was an urgent need to restructure the countrys educational framework to align it with national aspirations and developmental goals. [] The post 1966 Kothari Education Commission remains critically relevant today appeared first on Northlines .
Bancassurance will be key to the insurance for all by 2047 goal: Padalkar
HDFC Life CEO Vibha Padalkar expects growth to return to early teens, with bancassurance, term insurance and non-par products driving expansion
India is the world's best location to set up data centres: Piyush Goyal
In a pivotal meeting with data centre industry players, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal focused on facilitating business operations. He underscored India's immense potential for data centres and the substantial investments pouring in. Amid global challenges, Goyal praised India's economic growth, firmly responding to criticism of GDP statistics by highlighting the publics role. This progress is seen as crucial for paving the way toward Indias future economic goals.
SPL 2026: MLP suffer first defeat at hands of Lajong
Shillong, Sep 1: Shillong Lajong scored a goal in each half to beat Meghalaya Police 2-0 in the Shillong Premier League 2026 at the SSA Stadium here today. Ricky Kharkongor (39) and Lalmuansanga (54) were the scorers in the game that extended Lajongs unbeaten streak this season to four games while inflicting a first defeat [] The post SPL 2026: MLP suffer first defeat at hands of Lajong first appeared on Highland Post .
Quote of the Day by Humphrey Bogart: Humphrey Bogarts quote, The only thing money is good for is to buy your freedom, explores the deeper value of money, financial independence, and personal choice. The quote suggests that money should not simply be viewed as a symbol of wealth or status, but as a tool that can provide freedom, independence, and greater control over ones life. It highlights the idea that financial security can give people the ability to make their own decisions, pursue their goals, and live according to their own values without being overly restricted by financial pressure.
PM Modi to participate in valedictory session of departmental summit on water security tomorrow
New Delhi, Sep 1: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the valedictory session Departmental Summit of Ministry of Jal Shakti on 2nd September 2026 at around 4:30 PM at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, New Delhi. He will also address the gathering on the occasion. The two-day Departmental Summit, being held on 1-2 September 2026, is the first in a series of Departmental Summits envisioned by Prime Minister to strengthen the spirit of Team India, deepen cooperative federalism and foster collective ownership of national priorities through closer collaboration between the Centre and the States. The initiative provides a structured platform to jointly deliberate on critical sectoral priorities and accelerate implementation and outcomes. The Summit will bring together political leadership and senior officials from the Union and State Governments to deliberate on key priorities, share best practices, address implementation challenges and evolve time-bound action plans. The initiative seeks to promote shared responsibility for national goals and ensure that deliberations translate into measurable improvements in governance and service delivery. The Summit will focus on four key areas which include: Timely implementation of water infrastructure projects; Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari - Catch the Rain; Source sustainability of drinking water systems; and Operation and maintenance of rural drinking water supply schemes under Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0. The consultations are expected to result in concrete and time-bound actions for accelerating water infrastructure projects, enhancing public participation in water conservation, ensuring sustainable drinking water sources and improving the reliability and accountability of rural drinking water services.
