Rajnath Singh flags defence project delays, urges HAL to create 'technologies that do not exist'
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh urged Hindustan Aeronautics Limited scientists to create future technologies. He stressed realistic timelines for critical defence projects to avoid delays. Singh called for enhanced public-private synergy to build indigenous aerospace capabilities. India must prepare for sector transformation through advanced technologies and indigenous development. The goal is to make India a global leader in aerospace technology.
Who do you trust in an emergency? Researchers ask people in places hit by extreme weather
One evening in August 2025, a Pakistani shepherd, Abuzar Hussain, was tending sheep and goats on the mountain slopes of Shijar. At about 6 p.m., a thunderous roar shattered the silence of the valley.
Kasturirangan report: Karnataka govt to decide on physical survey after discussion with officials
Digital Desk | Udupi (Karnataka), Sep 18 (IANS) Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Friday assured residents of the Malnad and coastal regions that the state government would discuss with officials and take a decision on conducting a physical survey of areas covered under the Kasturirangan report. Shivakumar made the assurance while interacting with local residents at Hebri in Udupi district on the merits and demerits of the Kasturirangan report. Local organisations and elected representatives had urged the state government to conduct a physical survey and consider the Kerala model while deciding on the implementation of the report. You have explained the Kasturirangan report and the ecologically sensitive areas and brought the problems you are facing to my attention. We have to send our decision to the Centre by September 27. We have come here so that your opinion becomes our opinion. You have suggested the Kerala model and recommended an expert committee. We have accepted your suggestions and will discuss these issues in the Karnataka Assembly, Shivakumar said. He added that the state government had convened a three-day special session to discuss issues concerning farmers, drought and the Kasturirangan report. The report would be discussed on the first day of the Assembly session, he said. I will also visit Shivamogga and Chikkamagaluru and listen to the sentiments of the people there, he added. On the Forest Rights Act, Shivakumar said there was a provision prescribing different time limits, including 25 years for some and 75 years for others. The state government would consider taking a decision to prescribe a uniform 25-year limit and send it to the Centre, he added. He said that he had instructed Forest Department officials not to cause difficulties to people residing in forest areas. We will not do politics based on emotions. We are concerned about your lives, Shivakumar added. He said that important decisions had been taken regarding fisheries and that representatives from the region had sought a zonal management plan and a taluk hospital in Hebri. The state government would discuss these demands with officials and take decisions in the coming days, he added. I do not want to make announcements before you and then forget about them. I will do whatever service I can with the opportunity I have received. I will come to Udupi in the coming days and discuss the issues with elected representatives, he said. Shivakumar added that the people of Tulu Nadu region were an asset to the country and assured them that the state government would continue to seek their suggestions. He said a special Cabinet meeting had been held in Mangaluru after discussions with legislators and representatives of all parties from the region. Of the 60 decisions taken at the meeting, 40 were related to the coastal districts, he added. He also referred to the Cabinet decision to recognise Tulu as the second additional administrative language in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts. He said the state government had given priority to tourism in the coastal and Malnad regions and approved several development measures to attract investment and prevent migration. Representatives of various organisations and elected representatives urged the state government to constitute an expert committee and conduct a physical survey before taking further decisions on the Kasturirangan report. They said the report covers around 13,000 square km in Kerala and around 20,000 square km in Karnataka. According to them, Kerala conducted a physical survey through a high-level officials' committee, separating inhabited areas from forest areas and reducing the area covered by the report to around 9,000 square km. They claimed that a similar exercise in Karnataka could potentially exclude around 5,000 square km from the report's coverage. The representatives said the Kasturirangan committee had relied on satellite and GPS-based surveys and had not conducted a physical survey. They also raised concerns over the inclusion of areas with more than 100 residents and regions with less than 20 per cent protected forest cover. They said the report had created apprehension among residents that they could eventually be displaced and urged the state government to create awareness about its actual provisions. The representatives urged the state government to conduct a physical survey and place its findings before the Centre, the Supreme Court and the National Green Tribunal to resolve the concerns. It can be noted that the Kasturirangan Committee was set up by the Union government in 2012 under the chairmanship of K. Kasturirangan to examine the recommendations of the Gadgil Committee on protecting the Western Ghats. The committee recommended identifying parts of the Western Ghats as Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESA). It proposed restrictions on certain activities such as mining, quarrying, large construction projects and some industrial activities in ESA areas. The recommendations cover parts of six states: Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Goa, Maharashtra and Gujarat. In Karnataka, the recommendations have faced opposition from residents, farmers and local organisations, who have raised concerns about restrictions on agriculture, development and property rights
Barcelonas Joan Garcia Ruled Out for Sevilla Match Due to Knee Injury
Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia will miss the upcoming match against Sevilla due to a knee injury sustained in a recent game. Barcelonas Joan Garcia Ruled Out for Sevilla Match Due to Knee Injury
Private financing critical for Viksit Bharat goal: Economic Affairs Secretary
Achieving India's Viksit Bharat vision requires significant private sector investment. Government budgets alone cannot bridge the substantial financing gap needed. Recent sovereign rating upgrades highlight India's growing economic strength and improved business climate. Centre-state partnerships are essential for policy, finance, and implementation efforts. This collaboration will spearhead India's decisive journey towards its future goals.
Congress MP alleges BJP-AAP deal to split anti-BJP votes in Goa and Punjab
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Private financing critical for Viksit Bharat goal: Economic Affairs Secy
Achieving India's 'Viksit Bharat' vision will require critical private sector investment, as public expenditure alone cannot bridge the massive financing gap, Economic Affairs Secretary Anuradha Thakur said on Friday. Speaking at a conference of finance ministers and finance secretaries of states and Union Territories, Thakur highlighted the sovereign rating upgrades from major international rating agencies received by India over the past one-and-a-half years, and said such global recognition underscores India's growing economic strength, improving business climate, and strengthening position in the global investment landscape. Stating that India holds firm promise to move forward on the already achieved goals and scale new heights, he said Centre-state partnership on policy issues, on tapping financial sources, and on implementation can spearhead towards Viksit Bharat decisively. We know that we meet today in the backdrop of ongoing global difficulties. Under these circumstances
ColorOS 17 Announced With New Design And AI Features
OPPO has officially announced ColorOS 17 in China, introducing a redesigned interface, performance improvements, and new artificial intelligence features for compatible OPPO, OnePlus, and realme smartphones . Based on Android 17 , the update adopts the companys new Fluid Design , which includes visual effects designed to make interactions feel more responsive. According to OPPO, the new Aurora Engine improves system performance in several areas. The company claims that ColorOS 17 can keep 55% more applications active in RAM , launch apps with 35% greater stability , and improve launch speeds by 15% . Rendering visual effects reportedly places 30% less load on the CPU and GPU , while photo browsing in the gallery is said to be 50% faster. https://coloros-website-cn.allawnfs.com/website-resource-20260917/os17/video/module3/pc/%E6%B5%81%E7%95%85.mp4 The built-in Heytap assistant , formerly known as Breeno, has also received upgrades. It is designed to understand daily context, provide reminders about appointments, track tasks, and remember payments and events. The assistant also integrates with more than 700 Chinese services. Notifications can display dynamic progress indicators, allowing users to follow the stages of ongoing tasks. https://coloros-website-cn.allawnfs.com/website-resource-20260917/os17/video/module4/pc/%E4%B8%80%E9%95%9C%E5%88%B0%E5%BA%95.mp4 https://coloros-website-cn.allawnfs.com/website-resource-20260917/os17/video/module4/pc/card3.mp4 ColorOS 17 introduces a camera-based recognition mode capable of identifying objects, improving document readability, estimating food calories, and connecting to Wi-Fi networks. It can also automatically display boarding passes, concert tickets, and receipts when they are relevant to the users location or activity. The native gallery gains an advanced DaVinci editor , which supports natural-language commands. The update also expands integration with action cameras, NAS devices, and smart equipment. Connectivity has been simplified for smartwatches, cars, cameras, and earphones. On compatible watches, the new FatMax feature identifies heart-rate zones associated with exercise goals and includes voice guidance and a personalized Super Fat Burning Mode for aerobic workouts. Air Gestures can also control connected ColorOS 17 phones, including music and video playback and the camera shutter. Finally, OPPO says the update strengthens security through intelligent fraud detection . The system can block malicious links, dangerous app installations, and payments associated with scams . Video calls may also benefit from the detection of deepfakes, AI-generated voices, and suspicious scripts received through messages . A rollout schedule was also announced for supported devices. Update Date Brand Supported Devices Launch OPPO Find X10 series Launch OnePlus OnePlus 16 Launch OPPO OPPO Watch S2 October 8 OPPO Find N6; Find N6 Satellite Communication Edition; Find X9 Ultra; Find X9 Ultra Satellite Communication Edition; Find X9s Pro; Find X9; Find X9 Pro; Find X9 Pro Satellite Communication Edition October 8 OnePlus OnePlus 15; OnePlus 15T October 8 realme GT 8 Pro; GT 8 Pro Aston Martin F1 Limited Edition October 16 OPPO Find N5; Find N5 Satellite Communication Edition; Find X8 Ultra; Find X8 Ultra Satellite Communication Edition; Find X8s+; Find X8s; Find X8 Pro; Find X8 Pro Satellite Communication Edition; Find X8; Pad 5 Pro; Pad Mini; Pad Mini Soft Light Edition October 16 OnePlus OnePlus 13; OnePlus 13T October 16 realme GT 7 Pro; GT 7 Pro Racing Edition; GT 8; Neo 8 October 20 OPPO Watch X3; Watch X3 Mini October 20 OnePlus Ace 6; Ace 6 Ultra; Ace 6T; Ace 6T Genshin Impact Ayaka Kamisato October 22 OPPO Reno 16; Reno 16 Pro October 30 OPPO Watch X2; Watch X2 Mini November 26 OPPO Find N3; Find N3 Collectors Edition; Find N3 Flip; Find X7 Ultra; Find X7 Ultra Satellite Communication Edition; Find X7; Reno 15 Pro; Reno 15; Reno 15c; Reno 14 Pro; Reno 14; K15 Pro+; K15; Pad 5 Soft Light; Pad 4 Pro; Watch S November 26 OnePlus OnePlus 12; Ace 5 Pro; Ace 5 Ultra; Ace 5 Racing; Turbo 6V; Turbo 6; Tablet 2 November 26 realme GT 5 Pro; GT 7; GT 7 Aston Martin F1 Limited Edition; Neo 7; Neo 7 True Self Bad Guys; Neo 7 Turbo; Neo 7 SE; 15 Pro; 15 True Self; 15T December 26 OnePlus OnePlus 11; Ace 3 Pro; Ace 3; Ace 3 Genshin Impact Keqing; Ace 3V; Turbo 6X Pro; Turbo 6X; Tablet Pro; Tablet December 26 realme GT 6; GT Neo 6; GT Neo 6 SE; Neo 7x; 14 Pro+; 14 Pro; 14 True Self; V70; V70s ColorOS 17 Announced With New Design And AI Features , original content from Ubergizmo . Read our Copyrights and terms of use .
Women leadership gap a key hurdle in development goals: UN report
At the current rate of growth, equal rights and opportunities for women will not be achieved for another 171 years, UN Women report says
SPL 2026: Hamingbert brace lifts Laitkor to crucial win
Shillong, Sep 18: Laitkor put a run of bad form behind them to defeat Sawmer 2-1 in the Shillong Premier League 2026 at the SSA Stadium here today. Hamingbert Nongbet (18, 63) headed in both Laitkor goals on either side of a Bickyson Kharkongor (38) strike for Sawmer. Sawmer could have gone to the top [] The post SPL 2026: Hamingbert brace lifts Laitkor to crucial win first appeared on Highland Post .
Hyderabad man caught with 14 ecstasy pills, leads to Goa-Mumbai supply trail
Hyderabad man caught with 14 ecstasy pills, leads to Goa-Mumbai supply trail
He is fit as a fiddle at 90 and is a fitness goal. Toshisuke Kanazawa, a renowned bodybuilder from Japan, recently went viral after he bagged a win in the 85-and-over category in the All Japan Masters Fitness Championship. Besides being at the peak of health and energy, he also has muscles without steroids at his advanced age. He revealed the diet that helps him delay ageing.
Nifty 500 data shows 10%-20% was the most common three-year return range since 2005. With the latest three-year CAGR at 12.9%, an expert suggests investors should distinguish between exceptional bull-market gains and more typical returns when planning financial goals.
Can you name every Chelsea player to score 20+ Premier League goals?
Chelsea have had some brilliant goalscorers. The post Can you name every Chelsea player to score 20+ Premier League goals? appeared first on Planet Football .
Anahat Singh's High Stakes Asian Games Return
World junior champion Anahat Singh, now 18, is returning to the Asian Games with significantly higher stakes, as the women's singles gold medal offers direct Olympic qualification. Ranked world number 20, she is a strong medal contender and is embracing the pressure of competing for her country. Anahat faces formidable opponents like Satomi Watanbe and Sivasangari Subramaniam but is focused on refining her game and physical strength to achieve her goals.
Fermin Lopez returns as World Champions Spain announce squad for Nations League
Digital Desk | Madrid, Sep 18 (IANS) Fresh from their historic 2026 FIFA World Cup triumph, Spain will return to international action with a 26-member squad for the opening fixtures of the UEFA Nations League, with Fermin Lopez and Dean Huijsen among the notable inclusions. Head coach Luis de la Fuente has retained several key members of the squad that helped Spain lift the World Cup while also making changes as the team begins its new international cycle. Fermin makes his return to the national team after missing the World Cup due to injury. The Barcelona midfielder has started the domestic season in impressive form and has been rewarded with a recall. His return comes as Gavi misses out on the latest squad. There is also a first call-up for goalkeeper Josep Martinez, who has been included after Joan Garcia was ruled out with a knee injury. Martinez joins Unai Simon and David Raya as Spains three goalkeeping options for the upcoming international window. Huijsen is another major inclusion in De la Fuentes squad. The young defender has continued to make progress at the highest level and will provide additional options in the Spanish backline. He joins an experienced defensive group featuring Aymeric Laporte, Pau Cubarsi, Eric Garcia and Pedro Porro. Spain have also retained attacking full-backs Alejandro Grimaldo and Marc Cucurella, while the midfield includes Rodri, Martin Zubimendi, Pedri, Fabian Ruiz, Mikel Merino, Fermin and Alex Baena. The forward line features captain Mikel Oyarzabal, Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, Dani Olmo, Nico Williams and Yeremy Pino, along with Roberto Fernandez and Victor Munoz. Spain squad: Goalkeepers: Unai Simon, David Raya, Josep Martinez Defenders: Pedro Porro, Aymeric Laporte, Pau Cubarsi, Marc Pubill, Eric Garcia, Marc Cucurella, Alejandro Grimaldo, Dean Huijsen Midfielders: Rodri, Martin Zubimendi, Pedri Gonzalez, Fabian Ruiz, Mikel Merino, Fermin Lopez, Alex Baena Forwards: Mikel Oyarzabal, Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, Roberto Fernandez, Dani Olmo, Victor Munoz, Nico Williams, Yeremy Pino
La Liga: Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia ruled out of Sevilla clash due to knee injury
Digital Desk | Madrid, Sep 18 (IANS) Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia has been ruled out of Saturdays La Liga trip to Sevilla after suffering a minor knee injury, with the setback also forcing him to withdraw from Spains squad for the upcoming international break. Garcia sustained the injury during Barcelonas 7-2 victory over Racing Santander on Wednesday. The goalkeeper started the match but was replaced by Wojciech Szczesny at the beginning of the second half after experiencing discomfort in his right knee. Medical tests later confirmed that Garcia had not suffered a serious injury. However, Barcelona said the 24-year-old will remain unavailable for the immediate fixtures, with his return depending on his recovery. First-team player Joan Garcia is experiencing mild discomfort in his right knee. His recovery will determine when he returns, Barcelona said in a statement on its official website. The injury is to Garcias right knee, rather than his left knee, which required surgery last year. Garcia has been an important part of Barcelonas squad since joining the club and had been included in Spain coach Luis de la Fuentes squad for the upcoming international window. His absence has now prompted a change to Spains goalkeeping options. De la Fuente has called up Josep Martinez to replace Garcia in the national squad. Martinez will join Athletic Club goalkeeper Unai Simon and Arsenals David Raya as Spains three goalkeeping options for the international fixtures. The latest setback comes after Garcia was forced off against Racing Santander despite Barcelona securing a comfortable win. Szczesny took over between the posts for the second half and will be available for Saturdays league encounter against Sevilla. Barcelona will be hoping Garcias recovery progresses quickly as the Catalan club continues its La Liga campaign. The goalkeepers return will depend on how he responds to treatment and rehabilitation over the coming days.
Van Dijk Stays, Depay Omitted From Xavis Netherlands Squad For Nations League
Depay played only as a substitute at the World Cup earlier this year and remained on a national-record 55 goals
EAM Jaishankar concludes productive visit to Bhutan
Digital Desk | Thimphu, Sep 18 (IANS) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Friday concluded a productive visit to Bhutan, during which the two neighbouring countries discussed various aspects of bilateral cooperation. Concluded a productive visit to Bhutan. Touched by the warmth of our unique ties of friendship. Kadrinchey La!, EAM Jaishankar stated on X, sharing highlights of his visit. EAM Jaishankar paid an official visit to Bhutan at the invitation of Bhutanese Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade Lyonpo D. N. Dhungyel. In a joint statement issued on Friday, the two sides welcomed the progress made in strengthening the special and multi-faceted India-Bhutan partnership under the guidance of Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They also commended the progress made in bilateral development cooperation. The EAM reaffirmed Indias support for Bhutans developmental goals and priorities, while Bhutan appreciated support from India for wide-ranging programmes under its 13th Five Year Plan (2024-29). EAM Jaishankar and his Bhutanese counterpart Dhungyel expressed satisfaction at the implementation of the Joint Vision on Energy Partnership of March 2024, and recalled the recent strides in energy cooperation, including the inauguration of the 1020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project (HEP), signing of its Tariff Protocol and the resumption of dam construction of 1200 MW Punatsangchhu-I HEP. They welcomed the signing of the agreement on concessional Line of Credit of INR 4000 crores for energy projects in Bhutan. They also welcomed the active engagement of Indian companies in hydropower projects in Bhutan, adding dynamism to the existing energy cooperation, the statement noted. The EAM reaffirmed Government of Indias support for the Bhutan Kings vision for the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). The two sides acknowledged the interaction through the Joint Working Group on GMC and agreed to continue efforts to develop collaboration on GMC-related issues. EAM Jaishankar, along with Bhutans King, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, on Thursday lit Aashirvaad ka Diya at the iconic Tashichho Dzong in Thimphu. The Aashirvaad ka Diya was lit at the iconic Tashichho Dzong in Thimphu in the gracious presence of His Majesty the King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. We paid tribute to Prime Minister Narendra Modis 25 years of committed Janseva, which has impacted countless lives globally. We were joined by Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Foreign Minister of Bhutan, D. N. Dhungyel, friends of India from Bhutan and the Indian community in this special moment, EAM Jaishankar stated on X.
Karnataka cabinet gives Tulu official language status
Digital Desk | Mangaluru, Sep 18 (IANS) The Karnataka government on Friday announced Tulu as the states second additional administrative language alongside Kannada, began the process of renaming Dakshina Kannada district as Mangaluru district, and approved development projects worth Rs 32,611 crore for the coastal region. The Cabinet took these decisions at a special historic meeting held in Mangaluru. Addressing the media with Cabinet colleagues, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar said the Cabinet had unanimously decided to recognise Tulu as an additional administrative language in Dakshina Kannada (Mangaluru) and Udupi districts. He noted that the decision followed a long-standing demand from Tulu-speaking people, organisations, and public representatives for official recognition of the language. Tulu is spoken prominently in the coastal districts. We will not discuss why the previous government did not take this decision. We will not do politics based on emotions, Shivakumar said, adding that the government was committed to strengthening peoples social and economic power rather than indulging in emotional politics. He explained that society cannot be built on emotions alone, and the government would focus on empowering people socially and economically. He also said that, if necessary, the Cabinet would consider the economic and legal framework and hold meetings in the coming days to address issues requiring attention. This is Team Karnataka. The Cabinet is with you, Shivakumar said, announcing that Tulu would be declared the states second additional administrative language, limited to Udupi and Dakshina Kannada (Mangaluru) districts. The Chief Minister recalled that former minister Ramanath Rai first raised the demand to declare Tulu as the second additional language. He said MLA Ashok Kumar Rai and several other elected representatives had jointly exerted pressure for the demand. Shivakumar congratulated everyone who worked to get Tulu recognised. Explaining the sentiments of the people in the region, Shivakumar said that the first question Puttur MLA Ashok Kumar Rai raised in the Assembly after becoming an MLA was related to the Tulu language. I was surprised. His first sentiment was for the language. Today, he has secured approval for a Rs 500-crore medical college, but that is a different matter, he added. The Cabinet also decided to initiate the process of changing the name of Dakshina Kannada district to Mangaluru district. Shivakumar said the government would issue a draft notification and invite public opinion and objections for one month before taking a final decision. People recognise Mangaluru at the international level. People have expressed their wish in this regard. We have to follow the prescribed procedure and take the opinion of the people, he said. On coastal development, Shivakumar said the Cabinet approved projects worth Rs 32,611 crore, including Rs 16,000 crore for rural development projects. The Cabinet also approved the development of 12 islands in Mangaluru, Udupi, and Karwar districts to transform the coastal region into a global tourism hub. He said the government was seeking to utilise the regions coastline, cultural heritage, and natural resources to promote tourism and generate employment. A new Coastal and Malnad Karnataka Tourism Policy was also approved, which will treat tourism projects as infrastructure projects and provide greater support to investors, including extended loan repayment periods. The region will establish a Fisheries and Blue Economy University, and the existing fisheries college intake will increase from 60 to 200 seats. The Cabinet has also approved establishing a medical college in Puttur for Rs 549 crore. The Chief Minister said it was welcome that the Cabinet meeting was held in Mangaluru for the first time outside Bengaluru. Responding to a journalists question on whether Cabinet meetings would also be held in other districts, he said the government intends to hold meetings at 10 to 12 locations over the next 15 months. Cabinet meetings will be held wherever there is the capacity and a need, he said, adding that the governments goal is to build an integrated and prosperous Karnataka.
Alexander-Arnold is an England international again, on paper at least, after fifteen months out of the picture. Thomas Tuchel named his squad for this month's Nations League fixtures with both Alexander-Arnold and Cole Palmer back in, the two most notable absences from England's World Cup run this summer, and the two names every conversation about this squad was always going to start with. Eight changes separate this squad from the one that took England to a third-place finish at the World Cup in North America this summer. Phil Foden and Jordan Henderson are among those dropping out. Newcastle's Lewis Hall, Arsenal's Myles Lewis-Skelly and Liverpool's Rio Ngumoha are among those coming in alongside the two headline returns. None of the other changes were the story today, though. Those were always going to be Alexander-Arnold and Palmer. Why they were both left out in the first place Neither absence was really controversial at the time, even if both were talked about constantly. Alexander-Arnold hadn't played for England since June 2025, a run that stretched back well before the World Cup squad was even picked, while he adjusted to life at Real Madrid after leaving Liverpool. Palmer's omission came down to fitness and form together: a groin injury disrupted his season just as Chelsea slumped to a tenth-place Premier League finish, and Tuchel opted for other options rather than gamble on a player who wasn't fully right. What's changed is simple enough. Palmer has started this season with four goals and two assists in his first six games under Xabi Alonso, numbers that make his omission from the summer look considerably more debatable in hindsight than it did at the time. Alexander-Arnold has settled into two different positions at Real Madrid and made his case with a strong start to the season in Spain, enough that Tuchel felt there was no longer a reason to leave him out of the conversation. Tuchel's own message: this is a chance, not a return Asked directly about both recalls, Tuchel was careful not to frame either as a settled decision. Cole has his numbers back, he said, before adding, of Alexander-Arnold specifically, that he was never non-selectable. The distinction matters. Tuchel is treating both recalls as an opportunity to compete for a place rather than a return to guaranteed selection, particularly for Alexander-Arnold, who Tuchel confirmed will report to camp as a right-back in a position where competition remains genuinely fierce. England open their Nations League campaign against reigning European and world champions Spain at Wembley on 26 September, before matches against the Czech Republic and Croatia follow in the same window. For two players who spent the World Cup watching from home, the message from their own manager is blunt enough: getting picked again isn't the hard part. Staying picked is.
Digital Desk | Nagoya, Sep 18 (IANS) In a bizarre mix-up, the national anthem of North Korea was played before the hockey match of South Korea's men's team against Bangladesh at the Asian Games 2026 on Friday. The incident left the South Korean players baffled, with some players running their hands through their hair over the mishap ahead of their game at the Gifu Prefectural Green Stadium in Gifu, which remains nearly 30 kilometres from Nagoya. The organisers corrected the mistake and played South Korea's anthem after playing Bangladesh's national anthem. According to Yonhap, the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee stated that it lodged an official complaint with the organising committee over the anthem mix-up, demanding an official apology and prevention of a recurrence. It added that the match was delayed and the referee ordered players to shake hands and get ready to play even before the anthem ended. Korea defeated Bangladesh 5-0 in the pool game with Sim Jae-won, Lee Gang-san, Oh Se-yong, Bae Soung-min and Yang Ji-hun scoring one goal each. The 2023 Asiad bronze winners made light work of Bangladesh but were not taking their opponents lightly. We saw Bangladesh as a dark horse. We wanted to lock things down defensively in the first quarter, South Korea head coach Min Tae-seok said as quoted by Yonhap. And then we wanted to be more aggressive in the second quarter. And our players scored those goals after making their adjustments to the venue. Min also spoke on the anthem mishap. I can't believe something like this happened at an international competition, Min said. South Korea and Bangladesh are placed in Pool A along with four other teams, which also include defending gold medallists India, hosts and 2023 silver winners Japan, Sri Lanka and Indonesia. Meanwhile, South Korea women also won their opener against Chinese Taipei 3-1 in Pool A later.
PM Modi fostering resilience, innovation to achieve Viksit Bharat@2047: Rajnath Singh
Digital Desk | Kochi, Sep 18 (IANS) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Friday that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is serving the nation with a special focus on fostering resilience, innovation and a sense of national identity among citizens to realise the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047. Speaking at an event in Kochi, Kerala, the Defence Minister asserted that before 2014, India faced challenges such as corruption and misgovernance, which had weakened the morale of the people, and the nations progress in the last 12 years has been shaped by its ability to convert challenges into opportunities. Over the last 12 years, the world has faced a pandemic such as Covid-19 and witnessed several wars, which have had a profound impact on the global economy. Despite global challenges, we are moving steadily on the path towards becoming a self-reliant and developed nation, he said. Rajnath Singh stated that Operation Sindoor is proof of Indias willingness to cross the border to eliminate those who threaten the sovereignty and integrity of the country. He added that Maoism, too, has been brought to an end. On the governments aim to continuously bolster indigenous capabilities, the minister stated that indigenous defence production, which was just Rs 40,000 crore in 2014, has now reached nearly Rs 1.80 lakh crore. He added that defence exports have risen from nearly Rs 600 crore to around Rs 40,000 crore, with Indian equipment reaching around 100 countries. Voicing the nations resolve to work tirelessly towards its goals with courage and determination, Rajnath Singh described youth as the countrys greatest strength. Our youth are building start-ups, creating unicorns, developing drones, building hydrogen trains, and making rockets and satellites. They are leaving no stone unturned to make India a developed nation, he said. Rajnath Singh emphasised the importance of making the younger generation more aware of Indias history, culture and heritage. He said greater awareness among youth would contribute to stronger national consciousness and help build confidence in Indias place in the world. He called upon the youth to contribute to Indias economic, social and technological transformation, saying that a confident, capable and socially inclusive India can emerge as a developed nation and play a greater role in shaping the future of the world. On the crucial role of media in todays times, the Defence Minister stated that journalism is rightly called the fourth pillar of democracy, terming an independent and impartial press as one of the strongest instruments for ensuring accountability. The role of the media is not merely to report the news. It is also to ask difficult questions, bring the truth before the people, and hold those in power accountable, he said.
PGTI leader Saptak Talwar sees star-studded India Championship as a game changer for Indian golf
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 18 (IANS) Saptak Talwar, Indias current No. 1 on the DP World PGTI Tour, knows the next few weeks could be life-changing for him and take the 27-year-old to the next level in the sport. The tournament not only boasts of a massive $4 million prize, the highest in India for the second year running, but could also decide the topper of the DP World PGTI Order of Merit, newly named as the Race to DP World India Championship. Following a landmark arrangement between the DP World PGTI and the DP World Tour, the winner of the domestic Indian Order of Merit will get a full status on the main Tour. The arrangement is also the latest marker of the investment global logistics provider DP World has made in Indian golf part of a wider sporting footprint that also includes cricket and a consistent focus on bringing more young people into the sport. The event brings huge benefits for both the fans and the Indian golfers. While the fans await a golfing feast with the likes of two-time Masters winner, Rory McIlroy, defending champion Tommy Fleetwood and former FedEx Cup winner, Viktor Hovland, and Major champions like Ryan Fox, Justin Rose, Shane Lowry, Patrick Reed and Bubba Watson, the top Indian golfers realise that the DP World India Championship could be a life-changer for them. The newly constituted Race to DP World India Championship is a competition to determine DP World PGTI Order of Merit Champion for 2026, DP World India Championship 2026 qualifiers and playing rights on the DP World PGTI for 2027. The race in its debut year, will feature non-stop golfing action on the DP World PGTI calendar in the run-up to the DP World India Championship 2026. The top 24 players of the standings will earn their spots for the DP World India Championship 2026 while the Top 60 players on the DP World PGTI Order of Merit who will retain their playing rights for the 2027 DP World PGTI season. The nine events of the second half of the season, which concludes with the inaugural Kapil Dev Invitational Tour Championship in the first week of October, will finalise 24 spots for DPWIC and the R2DPWIC for 2027 will run through the full DP World PGTI calendar from next season. Talwar currently holds a lead of more than Rs. 20 lakhs over No. 2 Jhared Hack (US), but the latter is not likely to play any more events over the next few weeks in India. Also, Talwar is more than Rs. 30 lakhs (twice what a player earns for a regular win in a Rs. One Crore event) ahead of the next best Indian, Honey Baisoya. Yet Talwar says, The DP World PGTI Order of Merit is not a done deal. With the OOM finishing at DGC (DP World India Championship), anything can happen. We have four events left and the last one on DP World PGTI is the Kapil Dev Invitational, which has double the Prize Money and then there is the big one the DP World India Championship, where the prize purse is almost 38-40 times more at $4 million. So, the top Indian golfer could well walk away with the Merit honours by doing well in DP World India Championship. And I see no reason why one of us cannot do that. However, as Amandeep Johl, CEO of DP World PGTI confirmed, Only one fourth of that prize money will be counted towards the DP World PGTI Order of Merit. Talwar added, I am also missing the Tour Championships (Kapil Dev Invitational) as I am off to Asian Games in Japan that week. So, the DP World India Championship can be a life-changer for me and many other Indian players. Talwars compatriots Yuvraj Sandhu, Veer Ahlawat, Shubhankar Sharma and Anirban Lahiri will also be playing at DP World India Championship this year. Talwar, who early in his career, also played on the Canadian Tour, has now decided to try and top the DP World PGTI OOM to get into the main Tour in 2027. There has been further recognition in the form of a place in the National three-man team for the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, alongside Yuvraj Sandhu and Veer Ahlawat, who before him had earned DP World Tour cards in 2026 and 2025. This season Talwar has gained a lot of experience as he played a lot of events on the HotelPlanner (HPT), the second rung Tour in Europe, this season. At one point he had two possibly pathways to the DP World Tour for 2027. I had set myself a goal or threshold to try for a card through HPT, but when I was not inside that I decided to get back to India and play the DP World PGTI, where I was leading, says Talwar. Then there is the DP World India Championship at the Delhi Golf Club. That golf course is close to my heart and for many others in India. I literally grew up on the B course, have seen every big event. As a junior I attended many of the clinics by world class players like Ernie Els and others. So, to be playing alongside the likes of Masters winners, Major champions and PGA Tour players is a great opportunity for us to showcase Indian talent. While admitting that the current Indian pros have not won as much as the previous generation from Jeev Milkha Singh to Jyoti Randhawa and Arjun Atwal to Anirban Lahiri, Gaganjeet Bhullar, Shiv Kapur and Shubhankar Sharma, Talwar added, This event, the DP World India Championship is a game changer for Indian golf. This could a catalyst for Indian golf. In 10 years, we will see this as the one that changed the landscape of Indian golf. We have a number of good players, but they have not translated into wins. One win could ignite that fire and then we will have a big bunch of winners. Hemant Kumar Ruia, Country Manager, DP World (India) Subcontinent, said: India is one of the largest markets in our global network, and we remain focused on strengthening our ports, rail and inland logistics network across the country. Our commitment to India extends beyond our business, and supporting the growth of sport is an important part of that commitment. We are particularly pleased that the DP World India Championship can create genuinely life-changing opportunities for players like Saptak. With the newly named Race to DP World India Championship providing a pathway to the DP World Tour, Indian golfers now have a clear opportunity to take their game to the next level. We are delighted to play our part in helping make that possible. This has been his big breakthrough year for Talwar, though he won his maiden pro title in 2025. He added a second PGTI win at the Indo-Rama Ventures Open at Kalhaar and was second in the HotelPlanner event in India. Since then, he has been a prime contender for the DP World -PGTI Order of Merit, which has multiple benefits. And, now the DP World India Championship could see Saptak Talwar take the next big step in the big and highly competitive world of golf.
Do You Really Need a Bulky Phone Case for Serious Protection?
Macworld Meet the New Era of Protection Less Bulk. More Freedom. View Ostand Q3 (function () { document.querySelector(#sticky-promo-block a).addEventListener(click, function(e) { const debug = document.location.host.search(/lndo.site|go-vip.net/) !== -1; const text = this.closest(#sticky-promo-block).querySelector(p.promo-title).textContent; const data = { event: stickyConversionUnitClick, eventCategory: Sticky Conversion, eventAction: Click, eventLabel: text }; if(debug)console.log(Sticky Conversion CLick - pushing to dataLayer: , data); dataLayer.push(data); return true; }); })(); The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are, by most accounts, some of the best-looking iPhones Apple has ever made. Which makes it a little painful that the first thing most of us do after buying one is bury it inside a case. Thats the compromise thats defined phone accessories for years: you either protect your investment or you enjoy the design you paid for, but rarely both. A case substantial enough to survive a concrete sidewalk tends to turn a sleek slab of titanium and glass into something closer to a brick. A case slim enough to preserve that in-hand feel often leaves you one bad drop away from a cracked screen and an expensive repair. Torras TORRASs answer, with its new Ostand Q3 lineup, is that this trade-off is increasingly outdated. Smarter materials and more deliberate engineering mean a case doesnt need bulk to do serious protective workand it can pull double duty as a stand, a grip, and a mount while its at it. The Ostand Q3 Air Pro and Ostand Q3 Rugged are built on that premise, and they take slightly different routes to it. Torras Q3 Air Pro: Protection Without the Padding The Q3 Air Pro is Torrass showcase for what it calls Air Pro Tech, a sealed dual-layer airbag system called Air Duet that it describes as the first of its kind, borrowing an idea from performance sneakers: rather than relying on sheer mass to blunt an impact, staged internal air chambers absorb and dissipate force before it reaches the phone. The result is a case rated for drops of up to 16 feet , while measuring just 2.5mm at the sides and weighing 53g for the iPhone 18 Pro (61g for the Pro Max). Raised edges around the screen and camera add targeted reinforcement, anti-slip side texture improves grip, and a microfiber lining protects the phones finish from the inside. Its the case for someone who wants real drop protection but refuses to give up the phones actual shape. Q3 Rugged: The Traditional Approach, Trimmed Down The Q3 Rugged leans on more familiar rugged-case constructiona polycarbonate backplate wrapped in a TPU frame, with air-cushion protection built into the top and bottom edges and raised lips guarding the screen and camera. The best protection, of course, is not dropping your phone in the first place, so the Q3 Rugged includes additional grip along the sides to make the phone easier to hold while moving or working out. Its the more conventional route to durability, but Torras has kept the bulk in check: 47g for the iPhone 18 Pro and 59g for the Pro Max, with a matte, precision-textured grip thats clearly aimed at commutes, workouts, and anything more physical than a desk job. Its also MagSafe compatible, and more affordable at $49.99$51.99 against the Q3 Air Pros $79.99. Torras Ostand Gives the Cases Extra Functions What ties the two together is Torrass 3-in-1 Ostand, a rotating ring built into the back of each case rather than bolted on as an afterthought. It rotates a full 360 horizontally and opens up to 180 vertically, which gives it three practical modes: Stand, for propping the phone up to watch video, join a call, or follow a recipe hands-free; Hang, for suspending the phone somewhere useful when theres no flat surface nearby, like a gym rack; and Snap, which uses the cases magnetic connection 18N of holding force on the Q3 Air Pro to attach wallets, power banks, or car and bike mounts. So, Do You Need the Bulk? Not anymore, really. Between a sophisticated airbag system and a leaner take on rugged construction, TORRASs Ostand Q3 lineup makes a reasonable case that slim and seriously protected dont have to be opposing goals. Torras
Achieving any desired goal necessitates unwavering commitment and consistent effort rather than mere initial excitement. A Russian proverb reiterates that true success stems from hard work and perseverance. Relying solely on passive hope or good intentions can never substitute the effort required for real achievements. Significant rewards await those who are willing to invest the necessary labor, applying this concept across professional, educational, and personal growth avenues.
Can you name the top 20 goalscorers in English top flight history?
Proper history buffs only. The post Can you name the top 20 goalscorers in English top flight history? appeared first on Planet Football .
'Every stroke feels like music': Rower Poonam set for Asian Games debut
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 18 (IANS) Indian rower Poonam is gearing up for her first-ever appearance at the Asian Games as she will be competing in the Women's four event in Aichi-Nagoya. From taking up the sport almost accidentally to now enjoying it with every stroke feeling like music, Poonam has come a long way from competing at the university level to now representing India at the Asian Games. She began her career with athletics but switched to rowing to get admission for her graduation. I started rowing because I got the opportunity to get admission for my graduation through sport. At that time, I never thought that rowing would become my career. I just wanted to make use of the opportunity and see where it could take me, she said. The starting days in the sport were not that easy. Due to limited coaching and challenges in settling into a new environment, Poonam initially set herself smaller targets. She hoped to establish her authority at the university and national level before those ambitions got wings. Initially, my dream was to win a gold medal at the inter-college and university level. Then I wanted to win a medal at the Senior Nationals. Slowly, my goals started getting bigger. We have won gold medals at the Nationals, Senior Nationals and National Games, and now I am at the Asian Games, she said. Poonam trains at the Inspire Institute of Sport and reflected on how it has been helping her during her career. There have been a lot of changes after coming to Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS). I have been part of their rowing programme for the past one year. We get a lot of support here, and the staff takes care of our nutrition, physiology and psychology. Because of this environment, we feel more confident and feel that we can do much more, she said. I am feeling very good about going to the Asian Games. We had been working towards getting into the camp for the last few years, and we have been able to stay together and train consistently since last year. That has helped us improve a lot and has given me a lot of confidence, she said. She has now had a training stint in Europe under her belt. Poonam revealed how training in Europe has changed her mindset, showing that the Indian rowers can compete with them too. Our Europe trip was very good because we learnt how to handle pressure and control our nervousness during a race. Earlier, when we saw the European teams, we used to think about when we would be able to beat them. But after competing with them, we realised that we are not very far behind. We can compete with them, she added. As she prepares for the Asian Games, Poonam is also drawing confidence from the time she and her teammates have spent training together. We have spent a lot of time training together, and that has helped us understand each other better. In rowing, everyone has to move together and maintain the same rhythm. The more time we spend together, the more confident we become as a crew. Now she enjoys the sport even more, highlighting that the sound of strokes feels like music to her. Every stroke feels like music. The catch is different, the finish is different, and the movement of the boat is different. We don't get bored because we are so involved in it. Sometimes we keep rowing for one or two hours and don't even realise how much time has passed, she said.
Palmer, Trent return as Tuchel names England squad for Nations League campaign
Digital Desk | London, Sep 18 (IANS) Cole Palmer and Trent Alexander-Arnold have returned to the England squad after missing the FIFA World Cup 2026, as head coach Thomas Tuchel named a 27-member team for the opening four matches of the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League campaign. Palmer and Alexander-Arnold were among the high-profile names left out of Tuchels 26-member World Cup squad for the tournament in North America. Both players have now been brought back into the fold after impressive performances for their respective clubs. The duo are part of a number of changes to the England squad following the start of the new domestic season. Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Lewis Hall, Rio Ngumoha, Jarrad Branthwaite, Myles Lewis-Skelly and Alex Scott have also been selected. England return to action after winning the bronze medal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This was their best performance since winning the title in 1966 in the FIFA World Cup. The Three Lions beat France in the third-place play-off after their campaign ended with a 1-2 defeat to Argentina in the semi-final. Tuchels side will begin their Nations League campaign against world champions Spain at Wembley on September 26. England will then travel to Prague to face Czechia on September 29 before taking on Croatia in Rijeka on October 3. The four-game window will conclude when Czechia visits Wembley on October 6. England have been drawn alongside Spain, Croatia and Czechia in League A, Group C. The group winner will advance to the Nations League Finals in June. The squad will gather at St Georges Park early next week before beginning preparations for the four matches. England squad: Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford, Jason Steele, James Trafford Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jarrod Branthwaite, Trevor Chalobah, Marc Guehi, Lewis Hall, Ezri Konsa, Tino Livramento, Nico O'Reilly, Jarell Quansah Midfielders: Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Kobbie Mainoo, Cole Palmer, Declan Rice, Alex Scott Forwards: Harry Kane, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Eberechi Eze, Anthony Gordon, Rio Ngumoha, Marcus Rashford, Morgan Rogers, Bukayo Saka
From Downtown Srinagar to Dubai: How a Kashmiri engineer built Atom Inspections
Srinagar, Sep 18 : From battling unemployment and financial uncertainty to navigating the upheaval of the Covid-19 pandemic, Kashmiri engineer Qasim Afzal has had to overcome more than his share of setbacks. He chose to confront each challenge head-on, and today, his perseverance has taken his company to Sheikh Zayed Road, one of the prominent business corridors in the UAE. From working on major infrastructure projects to navigating the uncertainties of the Covid-19 pandemic and eventually building Atom Inspections , a property inspection and engineering consultancy, Afzal's story is one of resilience, persistence and purpose. Sometimes, you have to leave home to truly serve it. I left Kashmir not to walk away, but to return one day with knowledge, experience, and the ability to create opportunities for others and make better generations, Qasim says. His professional journey began alongside his father, a government contractor involved in infrastructure and building projects. He later worked on the Delhi Metro project and the Riyadh Metro Bus Project with a Turkish contractor. Planning to return to Srinagar and build the family business, he resigned and moved home. But within a month, Article 370 was abrogated, prompting him and his father to make the difficult decision for him to leave againthis time for Dubai. Qasim arrived in Dubai without a professional network, only to face another major challenge when the Covid-19 pandemic brought economic activity to a standstill. He spent five months without a job, and after finding employment, faced salary delays lasting more than a year. He says those experiences ultimately taught him resilience. His entry into the property handover industry proved to be a turning point. Working on the developer's side, he saw homeowners making one of the biggest investments of their lives while often lacking the technical support needed to ensure they received the quality they had paid for. That experience led to a simple question: Why not fix the process instead of accepting it? That question became a vision. And that vision became Atom Inspections - built to bridge the gap between construction and customer confidence, ensuring every property owner receives the quality, transparency, and technical expertise they deserve, he says. From identifying a gap to building a business Qasim says he chose property inspection because it was an area where his construction and project-delivery experience could directly address a real problem. I don't believe in building a business in a field where I don't have deep knowledge. I believe the best businesses are created by identifying real problems and providing the right solutions at the right time, he says. The early years were challenging, involving financial constraints, licensing requirements, the task of winning clients' trust and competition from established businesses. Qasim says the company gradually built its reputation by focusing on technical excellence, integrity and putting clients first. His original inspiration came from his experience during property handovers. At the time, he says, only a small proportion of homeowners appointed independent inspection companies. He observed that some inspection reports failed to adequately identify or technically explain defects, creating a gap between homeowners, inspectors and contractors. Qasim believed an independent engineering consultancy could help bridge that gap by identifying defects, producing technically sound reports and guiding homeowners through the handover process. Growing from a modest beginning Atom Inspections began with what Qasim describes as a modest investment in essential inspection equipment, reporting systems, licensing and operations. The company reinvested its earnings into technology, its engineering team and customer experience. Qasim and his team Photograph: (GK) Today, according to Qasim, the company has more than 100 professionals, including civil, structural, MEP, HVAC, facility management and building surveying specialists. It has completed more than 40,000 property inspections across the UAE, covering apartments, villas, luxury residences, commercial buildings, community assets, reserve fund studies, building condition audits and technical due diligence assignments. The company has also undertaken large-scale assignments involving community transitions, reserve fund studies, asset registers, facility management audits, building condition assessments and technical due diligence for developers, owners' associations, facility managers and institutional clients. Qasim lists DP World, Damac Properties, Beeah, LOAMS and Ajman Holding among its clients. The company's emphasis on detailed reporting and professional service is also reflected in customer reviews shared with the feature. Clients have praised Atom Inspections for its thorough inspections, clear reports, communication and support during snagging and handover processes. Building on innovation Qasim says Atom Inspections aims to go beyond conventional snagging services and position itself as a broader real estate engineering and property consultancy. We don't see ourselves as just another snagging company. We are a comprehensive real estate engineering and property consultancy dedicated to improving quality, transparency, and confidence throughout the property lifecycle, he says. The company has introduced practical engineering approaches to its inspection processes, including golf-ball testing to assess floor and surface slopes. Qasim says such methods reflect its effort to improve inspection accuracy and raise industry standards. We don't aim to compete on price; we aim to lead through innovation, technical excellence, and trust, he says. Keeping Kashmir at the heart of the journey Despite building his business in Dubai, Qasim says Kashmir remains central to his long-term vision. Kashmir will always remain close to my heart. My long-term vision is to bring the knowledge, engineering standards, and professional practices developed in the UAE back to my home region, he says. He sees potential to improve construction quality, asset management and building lifecycle planning in Kashmir, while also planning expansion into other GCC countries and selected international markets. The company also employs professionals from Kashmir and other backgrounds, with Qasim saying recruitment is based on competence, integrity, honesty and commitment to excellence. Qasim Afzal posing for a photograph at his office in Dubai. Photograph: (GK) For young entrepreneurs from Kashmir, his message is centred on purpose rather than money. Don't start a business simply to make money. Instead, identify the gaps around you and dedicate yourself to solving real problems. When you create genuine value, success becomes a by-product of your work, he says. He also urges young entrepreneurs to remain grounded in their values, define meaningful goals and have the courage to create their own path. A growing role for independent inspections Qasim believes the rapid growth of Dubai's real estate sector is making independent property inspections increasingly important. With rising off-plan sales, international investment and large residential developments, buyers are seeking independent technical experts to assess construction quality before taking possession. Developers, facility managers and owners' associations are also placing greater emphasis on quality assurance, asset management and building condition assessments. For Qasim, the journey from Kashmir to Dubai ultimately comes back to the same principle that inspired Atom Inspections: identify a genuine problem, build expertise around solving it and create value that extends beyond business. Sometimes, you have to leave home to truly serve it, he says. And for a Kashmiri entrepreneur who began his journey with little more than determination, the story of Atom Inspections continues to evolvefrom a modest idea born out of a gap in the property handover process into a growing UAE-based engineering consultancy with ambitions that extend well beyond Dubai.
Had decided to leave politics after 2024 elections, says Shehzad Poonawalla on BJP exit
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 18 (IANS) Political analyst and former BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla on Friday shed light his decision to resign from the party, saying that he had been considering a transition to the private sector after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Poonawalla said he had always intended to return to the private sector after the 2024 elections, but decided to continue working with the BJP for some more time due to the political situation following the polls. Speaking to IANS, Poonawalla said: After the 2024 elections, it was in my mind to transition to the private sector. The reason behind this was that when I joined politics in 2021 and became the national spokesperson of the BJP, I had previously been in the media. Before that, I drew a regular salary. I only knew media work and articulation. But when I joined politics and dedicated myself to it 24/7, I calculated how much savings I had and how many years I would be able to sustain working like this. When I realised that remaining active in a political party would only be feasible until the end of 2024, I had already made up my mind, he said. He further said that he wanted to re-enter the private sector. If you look at my earlier videos and statements, my intention had always been to leave politics after the 2024 elections and re-enter the private sector from where I had come, Poonawalla added. However, he said the BJPs tally of 240 seats in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and the political developments that followed made him reconsider his decision. Given the post-2024 election situation, where the tally stood at 240, I felt that leaving at that critical juncture would not be right. There were also crucial state elections approaching, and I wanted to contribute as much as I could. Finally, after the Bengal elections, I decided that the time had come to step into the private sector, he said. Poonawalla also said that his objective in politics had never been to seek an elected position. Secondly, my goal has never been to become an MP or an MLA. I do not work for positions; I work for a mission and a vision. Even today, I continue to work for the mission and vision of the BJP. I do not chase titles or posts; I believe in building stature, he said. On the row over the Umar Khalid documentary, Poonawalla criticised those who, according to him, portray Khalid as a hero while questioning the credentials of other prominent Indians. They never see a hero or a Nelson Mandela in Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, nor in Ustad Bismillah Khan. They only see one in Umar Khalid. And those shedding tears for Umar Khalid -- when the court gave a clean chit to Sadhvi Pragya, they still label her a terrorist simply because she wears saffron. Yet someone whom the courts refuse to release is still portrayed by them as a martyr and innocent, he said. He quipped that the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, can become PM, but of Pakistan. Rahul Gandhi can become Prime Minister but perhaps of Pakistan. If he prefers, of Italy, or whichever country he frequently visits, like Bangkok -- if he wishes to take citizenship there, he could become Prime Minister there, since he spends most of his time abroad anyway. In India, he only visits briefly between his vacations. He could certainly become Prime Minister of those countries, but here, in 2029, Narendra Modi will be re-elected Prime Minister with an even bigger margin. In 2034, if he decides to contest, he will become Prime Minister in 2034 as well. In 2027, Yogi Adityanath will return with an even greater margin than the BJP received in 2017, he claimed. On actor Swara Bhaskers remarks regarding the Ram Janmabhoomi verdict, Poonawalla criticised her views and said the Supreme Court verdict should be respected. Swara Bhasker, please stop now! Because this anti-Hindu stance, anti-national rhetoric and constant belittling of Hindus must end. The verdict on the Ram Mandir came through the Supreme Court -- and these people claim to champion saving the Constitution. Do Rahul Gandhi and Swara Bhasker believe that the wisdom of the Supreme Court was flawed? he said. Recently, Swara Bhasker has revealed that when the Ram Janmabhoomi verdict was announced, she reached out to superstars Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Aamir Khan to express her solidarity. She said she felt ashamed and, as such, reached out to all the Muslims she knew to tell them that she didnt agree with the verdict.
There is no excuse, this is an occasion: Vimal on India's Asian Games prospects in badminton
Former coach Vimal Kumar believes India can surpass their previous Asian Games medal tally. He stated that consistency from singles players is crucial for achieving this goal. Indian players must deliver strong performances in key matches during the upcoming tournament. The team's success hinges on strong starts from the first two singles matches. India's contingent is preparing for the team and individual events in Japan.
Maruti's vehicle dispatches via in-plant rail terminals reach 1 million
Maruti Suzuki India on Friday said it has reached a milestone of dispatching 1 million vehicles through in-plant railway terminals in just over three years since opening dedicated transportation lines at two manufacturing sites in Gujarat and Haryana. Operations from in-plant railway sidings at Hansalpur (Gujarat) commenced in March 2023 and from the Manesar (Haryana) railway siding in June 2025. In the current financial year, the automaker said that 70 per cent of its total rail-based vehicle dispatches have been through these two in-plant railway sidings, and its mid-term goal is to increase such dispatches to 35 per cent by FY31. As of August 31 of this fiscal year, the company's rail-based vehicle dispatches have crossed 3 lakh units, it said. An in-plant railway terminal inside a manufacturing facility allows goods to be loaded onto freight trains within the plant, eliminating the need for trucks to access the nearest railway stations before entering the supply network. Of th
Spanish Proverb of the Day: The Spanish saying 'Poco a poco se anda lejos' conveys the importance of taking small, steady steps toward long-term goals. This proverb reminds us that patience and consistent effort lead to substantial achievements, contrasting the contemporary obsession with rapid success. Its message remains pertinent for both personal growth and career advancement, encouraging individuals to value the journey over immediate results.
'I'm Man United Fan Because Of Nitish Rana, He Introduced Me To Football': Rinku Singh
And Rana Bhai: India cricketer Rinku Singh revealed that he is a core Manchester United fan, and his support for the Premier League club began after fellow cricketer Nitish Rana introduced him to football and helped him understand how to watch and follow the game. Rinku recently attended his first-ever live football match at Old Trafford, witnessing the Manchester derby against Manchester City in the Premier League. The experience gave the Indian cricketer an opportunity to watch the rivalry from inside the iconic stadium after previously following football only on television. Earlier, I was a United fan, and I still am to some extent because of Nitish Rana bhai. He introduced me to football and showed me how to watch the game. From there, my interest in football grew a bit. And Rana Bhai is a United fan, so I used to spend time with him, and watching him, I became a fan of United, Rinku told JioStar. The derby, however, did not produce the result Rinkus adopted club would have wanted. Manchester City secured a 1-0 victory at Old Trafford, with Erling Haaland scoring the decisive goal in the second half. Despite arriving as a United supporter, Rinku admitted that he found himself backing City at certain stages of the match as United struggled to create an impact. Yes, I found myself supporting City a little bit as the match went on. United werent playing that well, while City were looking better at the time, he said. For Rinku, though, the result was secondary to the experience of watching a football match live for the first time. He said the atmosphere inside Old Trafford helped him understand why the sport has such a strong following around the world. I consider myself lucky because I got to watch a match between City and United. I was very lucky to be there and watch the match at such a time. It was the first live football match of my life, and it was a completely different feeling altogether, he said. I realised what it feels like to watch a football match live in a stadium. I had only watched matches on TV before, so it felt really good to be there. I loved the vibe. The way the entire crowd supports the team when a goal is scored or a player does something special, the crowd screams out. That is something you really feel and experience when you are there at the stadium, he added. I consider myself lucky because I got to watch a match between City and United. I was very lucky to be there and watch the match at such a time. It was the first live football match of my life, and it was a completely different feeling altogether, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories I really like Marcus Rashford. Ive followed him a lot, so hes my favourite. And when it comes to composure, I think Bruno Fernandes. He stays very calm, plays very calmly, keeps strolling on the pitch, and when the ball arrives, he instantly scores a goal or does whatever is needed on the pitch, he said. Article Source: IANS
San Diego military base brings in almost 500 goats to tackle wildfire risk
ASEAN Cup: Dooley names Farhaan, Shuki and Zidane in final 23
The inclusion of Farhaan Ali Wahid has generated particular interest, with Dooley hopeful that the England-based forward can provide Bangladesh with a cutting edge in front of goal.
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 18 (IANS) Actress Rakul Preet Singh recently took some time away from her usual routine to enjoy a relaxing getaway with her husband, actor-producer Jackky Bhagnani. Sharing glimpses of the peaceful break on Instagram, the Yaariyan actress reflected on how the getaway gave her an opportunity to slow down, unwind and enjoy the little moments. Sharing her video, she wrote, A little escape from the usual, and exactly the kind of break I needed. Beautiful views, amazing food, slow mornings, good conversations and so many little moments that made the stay special. She added, From the comfort of the property to simply enjoying the surroundings, everything felt like a reminder to pause, unwind and be present. Some getaways are about the destination, and some are simply about how the place makes you feel. The video montage captures Rakul making the most of her getaway with husband Jackky. From leisurely strolls and relaxing by the pool to enjoying beachside moments, the actress is seen soaking in the holiday atmosphere. The montage also features glimpses of the couple enjoying their evenings, including outings to nightclubs, along with moments of good food, scenic views and quality time together. The series of clips gives a glimpse into Rakuls laid-back vacation, showing her enjoying both the peaceful and fun-filled sides of the getaway with Jackky. Both Rakul and Jackky often share glimpses of their life together on social media, giving a peek into their relationship and setting couple goals with their loved-up posts. Earlier, Rakul Preet Singh had offered a glimpse into her professional and personal bond with husband Jackky Bhagnani. She shared that their work partnership was fuelled by constant laughter and endless conversations about food. The actress had shared a series of pictures with Jackky in a collaborative social media post, saying their shared synergy made building something exciting together as a couple a truly rewarding experience. People ask us what its like working together. The answer? Half the time were discussing work, the other half were laughing and discussing what to eat. Its fun because I feel our synergy is aligned. Building a life together is one thing. Building something youre both excited about is a whole different experience, she wrote as the caption.
Star Cast: Kunal Kemmu, Preity G Zinta, Sparsh Srivastava, Vanshika Dhir Director: Kunal Kemmu Vibe Movie Review Synopsis: VIBE is the story of two friends who land in serious trouble. Bhagirath aka Bugs (Sparsh Srivastava) works as a software developer at a company called Next Phase Technologies in Mumbai. His best friend, Hardik Sharma (Kunal Kemmu), is quite sharp but has just been released from drug rehab. Bugs requests his boss to hire Hardik, and the latter joins the companys marketing department. Here, he meets Kareena (Vanshika Dhir), and sparks fly between the two. All is going well until one day, all hell breaks loose for Hardik and Bugs. A fiery national security agent, Madam H (Preity G Zinta), and her team abduct the duo and compel them to work on a top-secret mission. They cant back out as its a matter of national security. What happens next forms the rest of the film. Vibe Movie Story Review: Kunal Kemmu's story is a bit clichd but works well within the zone of the film. Kunal Kemmu's screenplay is simplistic and peppered with hilarious dialogues and moments that keep the interest going. However, the writing falters whenever the film gets serious. Kunal Kemmu's dialogues are one of the high points. The one-liners land effectively, and a few of them will be lapped up big time by viewers. Some of the one-liners are adult in nature, which explains the film's 'A' rating. Kunal Kemmu's direction is functional. He is a pro when it comes to humour and he proved it with MADGAON EXPRESS [2024]. The film is a bit in the zone of GO GOA GONE [2013] and a few Hollywood films where two simpletons are forced to fight the baddies. However, since it is set in Mumbai and also has a terrorism act, it works well for the Indian audiences. The circumstances under which Hardik and Bugs come into contact with Madam H are hilarious and also quite unexpected. The dinner scene involving Kareena and her father (Mark Bennington) is also very funny, while the intermission point is equally shocking. On the flipside, the film falters in the second half once humour takes a backseat. The twist involving the villain is just about okay and makes VIBE feel somewhat routine. The makers raise intriguing questions about how a suspicious individual could change her identity and gain access to a prominent tech company, whether an insider was involved, and whether there is a leak within the team. However, the film conveniently leaves these intriguing threads unresolved, making one wonder why they were introduced in the first place. Moreover, the films title and overall tone are such that it is likely to appeal primarily to urban audiences. Vibe Movie Review Performances: Kunal Kemmu is great not just as a writer-director but also as an actor. Playing such goofy roles comes naturally to him and even in VIBE, he essays it with full conviction. Many scenes turn funnier than what was written on paper because of his act. Preity G Zinta looks stunning and performance-wise, shes first-rate. Her action scene is memorable. Sparsh Srivastava shines and ensures that he doesnt get dominated by Kunal and Preity. He also gets to show his acting and humour prowess effectively and makes good use of it. Vanshika Dhir is not merely eye candy and has a crucial role. Performance-wise, shes satisfactory. Dinesh Lal Yadav aka Nirahua (Bansi) and Yashpal Sharma (Rawal) are very convincing and also entertaining. Salem Kali (Abid) is just okay, while Mark Bennington leaves a mark. Rajesh Krishnan (Bug's Boss) is funny. Uorfi Javed (Chanchal Screwvala) and Aaditya Kulshreshth aka Kullu (Hardik's colleague) do well in cameo appearances. Vibe movie music and other technical aspects: Amit Trviedi's music is just okay. 'Raaton Mein Aana' is memorable for its whistle theme and picturization. This is followed by 'Aisi Meri Vibe', 'Rafta Rafta' and 'Sipahi Ek'. John Stewart Eduri's background score is in sync with the films happenings. Kaushal Shah's cinematography is neat. Prachi Deshpande's production design is classy, while Rick Roy's costumes are glamorous. Parvez Shaikh's action and Brahm Chab's stunt design are devoid of gore and entertaining. But it could have been better. Anand Subaya and Sanjay Shrirang Ingle's editing is functional. Vibe Movie Review Conclusion: On the whole, VIBE works due to Kunal Kemmus strong command over humour, several hilarious one-liners and entertaining performances. Though the film loses steam in the second half and the villain track feels routine, it has enough madcap moments to keep viewers amused. At the box office, its urban appeal and youth-friendly humour should help it find its target audience.
Borosil Renewables pilots rooftop solar projects, targets 100 crore revenue
Borosil Renewables aims to capitalise on the governments goal to solarise 10 million households by next March, using its solar glass production capabilities to offer comprehensive rooftop solar solutions to consumers.
From Hangzhou high to Nagoya test: India eyes another sporting leap at Asiad
India's athletes face a significant challenge at the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya. The nation aims to showcase its growing sporting depth and future global aspirations. Track-and-field athletes and shooters lead the charge with strong medal hopes. Cricket, badminton, and hockey also present opportunities for success. These games serve as a crucial step towards India's long-term sporting goals.
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 18 (IANS) As Prime Minister Modi completes 25 years in public service, there has certainly been a significant change, not only in the Indian economy but also in the growing wealth of India and Indians, New Zealand's Minister for Trade and Investment, Todd McClay, said on Friday. Speaking to IANS, McClay said that PM Modi's focus on education for people, building more universities every year than anyone else in the world, and, of course, the great investment in infrastructure is quite significant. Of course, Prime Minister Modi has said he wants to increase the earnings of farmers and growers by 50 per cent by 2035. I think we're joining him in that mission, he mentioned. McClay further said that there's a lot of advanced technology and innovation that we use in New Zealand that we will want to bring and work with India on to help increase the earnings of farmers in India, just as we have in New Zealand. PM Modi completes 25 uninterrupted years in public office on October 7. Under his leadership, India is rapidly moving on the path of development to achieve the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047. McClay further said that his country has had negotiations and discussions and signed agreements previously with India in many areas, and now in trade as well. Energy security is extremely important, and particularly around renewable energy, there will be a lot that we can do together. Of course, there's more to the relationship now. We've signed cooperation agreements around security. Our military forces will do things together constructively and so on, McClay told IANS. The India-New Zealand trade agreement is only the start of the effort, focus and investment that the New Zealand government wants to make in our relationship with India, he added. He further said that we have our election coming up in New Zealand. Once that's finished, then it's my hope to be able to visit India before the end of the year.
India, Bhutan review bilateral ties, hail progress in development cooperation
Digital Desk | New Delhi/Thimphu, Sep 18 (IANS) India and Bhutan reviewed all aspects of bilateral cooperation as well as other regional and international issues of mutual importance during External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar's three-day official visit to the Himalayan nation from September 16-18. EAM Jaishankar paid an official visit to Bhutan at the invitation of Bhutanese Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade Lyonpo D. N. Dhungyel. In a joint statement issued on Friday, the two sides welcomed the progress made in strengthening the special and multi-faceted India-Bhutan partnership under the guidance of Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They also commended the progress made in bilateral development cooperation. The EAM reaffirmed Indias support for Bhutans developmental goals and priorities, while Bhutan appreciated support from India for wide-ranging programmes under its 13th Five Year Plan (2024-29). EAM Jaishankar and his Bhutanese counterpart Dhungyel expressed satisfaction at the implementation of the Joint Vision on Energy Partnership of March 2024, and recalled the recent strides in energy cooperation, including the inauguration of the 1020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project (HEP) and signing of its Tariff Protocol, and the resumption of dam construction of 1200 MW Punatsangchhu-I HEP. They welcomed the signing of the Agreement on concessional Line of Credit of INR 4000 crores for energy projects in Bhutan. They also welcomed the active engagement of Indian companies in hydropower projects in Bhutan, adding dynamism to the existing energy cooperation, the statement noted. EAM reaffirmed the Government of Indias support for the Bhutan Kings vision for the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). The two sides acknowledged the interaction through the Joint Working Group on GMC and agreed to continue efforts to develop collaboration on GMC-related issues. The Indian side reaffirmed its commitment to establish an Immigration Check Post at Hatisar (Assam) to facilitate easy movement of investors and visitors to Gelephu as announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modis State Visit to Bhutan in November 2025. Bhutanese side thanked the Government of India for the decision to establish a special temporary immigration facility at Hatisar (Assam) across Gelephu to facilitate entry/exit of third-country nationals for Project 108 Chortens/Stupas on 01 November 2026, the statement mentioned. India thanked Bhutan for its support to Indias candidature for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2028 - 2029 term. The Indian side also welcomed the ratification of the Framework Agreement of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) by Bhutan. Both the ministers also exchanged views on regional and global developments, and recognized the significance of close bilateral ties amid the complex international environment. India and Bhutan share an exemplary partnership characterised by trust, goodwill and mutual understanding at all levels and close people-to-people contacts. The visit was in line with the longstanding tradition of close engagement and cooperation between the two countries, the statement noted.
'We've Been Benchmarked, Tested, Theres Nowhere To Hide,' Admits Afghan Coach Pybus
Arun Jaitley Stadium: Afghanistan head coach Richard Pybus said his side had been benchmarked and tested by India in their 3-0 T20I series loss to the heavyweights and admitted there was nowhere to hide for them after being bowled out for 94 in the third T20I at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Afghanistan had a long gap since playing their last T20 World Cup group stage game in February, and the defeat to India has exposed exactly where they currently stand right now in terms of the shortest format. We've got a lot to work on. I think I said the other day this is our first T20 series since the World Cup. That's a really long break. Some of these guys have just come back into the squad for the first time since then. We've been benchmarked, tested and we can see where our deficits are. Now we need to go to work. We were poor. We were pleased to start off with winning the toss and getting an opportunity to chase. Our first 10 overs with the ball - our control wasn't good enough and Abhishek and Sanju batted beautifully up front. I was really pleased with the way we came back from 10 to 20 overs. I thought our fight back was phenomenal, skills and intent in the field was much better, Pybus said in the post-match press conference. Though Afghanistan gave away 79 runs from the last 60 balls in Indias innings, after Abhishek Sharma blew them to hit 108 and rack up 100 runs in power-play, Pybus was still left ruing the inconsistency with the ball. I thought we were brilliant in the field in those back 10 overs. Rashid led that. He was superb. With the batting, you're chasing 220. The intent is to go and chase it down. You have got scoreboard pressure and go at 11 runs and over. There's nowhere to hide. If you come up short, it's no good scoring 150 and being behind the rate. We've got to execute our game plan. We didn't deliver. I thought that up front with Ibrahim and Gurbaz, we were much better in terms of our intent. We brought our game to the Indian opening bowlers, but we couldn't hold that consistency. Afghanistan's batting hadnt stepped up to the enormous talent they have in the first two T20Is. In the third T20I, after making 31 runs in the first three overs, it did not qualify as a performance at all. That slide, coupled with scoreboard pressure, led to Afghanistan finishing six short of the three-figure mark, and 14 fewer than Abhisheks 108. Pybus stated the problem was execution under pressure, not the batting order. I don't think it's much of the batting order, it's the execution. Ibrahim and Gurbaz at the top of the order are an established pair. Again I thought our intent was much better. I thought we were too passive in the last game. I thought we let India bowl to us. So I was happier with the way that we took on the Indian attack. Again it comes back to execution under pressure and you're chasing 220, you've just got to keep on going. So there are areas for all of our players to improve and a little bit like with the bowling, against an attack as good as India's, you're facing Jasprit and Axar - these are absolutely world-class operators and you've got to be very clear in your game plans. So we've got work to do and really to come here and play in India against the best T20 side in the world and understand what it's like to play under pressure - this isn't league cricket, it isn't international cricket against lower-ranked sides. This is the ultimate examination. So we can see very clearly what we've got to work on. His bowlers, as per Pybus, had discovered how small the margins are against India's openers on flat pitches. We're bowling to some really fine opening batters on fantastic surfaces. The reality is with players like this on these surfaces, you can get hit off your length. You can get hit off the top of your bounce. They're superb at it. The other side of that is that we need to be much, much better. Our control, our disciplines. On wickets like this, your length is about 12 inches. On one side of the length, you're getting pulled. The other side of the length, you're getting driven. It's an opportunity for our cricketers, particularly for our bowlers, to understand the skill levels you need to have to be able to control the game. Until you have an experience like this, you don't know what it is, really. When you've got the guys who are hitting you as a spin bowler, as we saw in the last game with Rash and Nabi, where literally you miss your length by six inches, it's gone back over your head off the back foot for six. It's a proper challenge. But again, until you actually have this experience, you don't know what it is. With the 2028 T20 World Cup in view, Pybus felt any mental hold big teams like India have over Afghanistan would have to be broken one step at a time. If there is an issue with a side where the opposition have got the wood over you, when you work through that, you do it stage by stage. You're conditioning and got to get your skills right. Off the back of improving your skills, then your strategy improves. Until you get your skills to world-class level, you really don't have a strategy and then once we get our strategy right, then we've got to execute under pressure. It's fine when you're playing lower-ranked sides and maybe you can beat them on skill. But to come to India, historically it's been one of the great challenges in world cricket. I don't think it's any different for Afghanistan. You're playing against players who are grounded in their game here with a volume of games in the IPL, and they're unbelievable playing on these surfaces. But again, if you want to go in the T20 format, if we want to be able to go to the World Cup in 2028 and to be looking to have a game which is going to take us to get into the last rounds and then be there to fight through those stages, we've got to deal with it. But it really is - when you have those psychological issues, you've got to do it step by step. Again, when you come here, it's the ultimate challenge. You've got to be up for it. But you've also got to have the skills and the strategy to be able to deliver. When sides are evolving, when you are putting your calendar together, you need a mixture of opponents, and this is the best opponent we can have for us to work out exactly where we're at. I think the boys are bitterly disappointed, obviously here in particular and I think there will be some serious reflection, really and then it's up to myself and the coaching staff to get busy with them, he explained. Pybus also gave an update on pacer Naveen-ul-Haq, who sat out of all three games due to a shoulder niggle. Naveen irritated his shoulder in training. We've had him here to be able to gauge where he's at in his comeback. He got some decent bowling early on. When we were here before we started coming into these three matches, the good news is the irritation has got nothing to do with his old injury. I think the boys are bitterly disappointed, obviously here in particular and I think there will be some serious reflection, really and then it's up to myself and the coaching staff to get busy with them, he explained. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories He's got some really fantastic support staff around him who are hugely experienced. Our goal is to get him back to his best and we don't want to rush that. I know he's absolutely desperate to play and I know he's disappointed he couldn't play, but we want to get him 100 percent ready so he can play at his best. Article Source: IANS
BLACKPINKs Lisas backup career plan was a Disneyland performer as princess
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 18 (IANS) K-pop girl group BLACKPINK member and Thai singer Lisa revealed she had a couple of backup career options in case her singing career did not work out, including performing at Disneyland. During an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, the K-pop icon said she could have become a dance teacher or worked as a Disneyland performer dressed as a princess. A clip shared on Instagram by the show was captioned: If her singing career didnt work out, @lalalalisa_ms backup jobs were to be a dance teacher or a @disneyland performer #FallonTonight #LISAonFallon In the video, Fallon asked: Was there ever a backup plan for you or you just knew that you'd get to this point and this is what you wanted to do, that you just want to be a singer? Was that always your goal? To which, Lisa replied: I think so or maybe my B plan was a plan B was a dance teacher or maybe work as a performer at Disneyland. Like a princess costume. Yeah, I love doing it. Lisas latest song SaWaDiKa has been released. A few weeks ago, she expressed her gratitude and said that the whole village helped her bring her track to life. Sharing a heartfelt note on Instagram, Lisa thanked the team across Thailand, Korea and Los Angeles. Lisa wrote: Its been one day since SaWaDiKa is released to the world!! From Thailand to Korea to LA, it took a whole village to bring this to life, so a huge Thank you to every single person that was involved. She released SaWaDiKa on September 4, as a pre-release single from her upcoming EP Press Play. One of K-Pops most followed artists on Instagram, Lisa rose to prominence as a member of the South Korean girl group Blackpink, which debuted in August 2016 and became one of the best-selling girl groups of all time.
Chelsea boss Alonso wary of his defence on eve of Brentford clash
The Blues have conceded eleven goals in six games across all competitions, which has undermined the brilliance of their attack.
Cant accept the manner of our loss Carrick after Brighton defeat
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick fumes after Red Devils let two-goal lead slip in shock 2-3 defeat to Brighton in third round
Diaz out as Colombia unveil new-look squad
Digital Desk | Bogota, Sep 18 (IANS) Birmingham City midfielder Jhon Solis and Zenit St. Petersburg defender Kevin Andrade were among 11 uncapped players named in Colombia's squad on Thursday for friendlies against Mexico, Paraguay and Peru in the United States. Other newcomers included goalkeeper Aldair Quintana, defender Roger Caicedo, midfielder Daniel Arcila and forward Camilo Duran. Manager Nestor Lorenzo called up two players from local club Atletico Nacional: left-back Samuel Velasquez and midfielder Juan Manuel Rengifo. Nobody is always in, nor permanently out, Lorenzo told a news conference in Bogota. Whether they are young or old, everyone who has been part of this process knows they have to compete, and that anyone can come in or drop out of the squad. Absent from the 26-man squad were Bayern Munich winger Luis Diaz and former captain James Rodriguez, who announced his retirement from international football on Tuesday, reports Xinhua. In the case of Luis Diaz, we mutually agreed that he should rest during this window, Lorenzo said. It also allows us to test young talent and give them valuable experience. The Cafeteros will play Mexico in Baltimore on September 26, Paraguay in New Jersey on October 2 and Peru in Miami on October 6. The matches will mark the team's first outings since a penalty shootout loss to Switzerland in the World Cup round of 16 in July. Lorenzo paid tribute to Rodriguez, who is Colombia's most capped player with 131 international appearances and its second-highest scorer with 31 goals. I didn't intervene in his decision [to retire], Lorenzo said. I listened to him and respected his timeline. I had known since the match against Switzerland, and I respected his decision regarding how and when to announce it. James has given an enormous amount to the national team. He was a cornerstone of our project. We must thank him for everything he did and hope that the shirt continues to shine. FIFA's extended international window, which combines the previously separate September and October dates, allows teams to play up to four fixtures over a 16-day period. Lorenzo has said that he will use the friendlies to test new players ahead of South America's 2030 World Cup qualifiers.
Teenager Floyd Samba's Stunning Debut For Manchester City!
Seventeen-year-old English midfielder Floyd Samba made a sensational senior debut for Manchester City, scoring two goals and earning the man of the match award in their 5-0 League Cup victory over Norwich City.
West Bengal needs 7.25% annual growth to achieve 5X economy by 2047: ORF report
A report details West Bengal's path to a fivefold economy by 2047. It identifies growth gaps and proposes six pillars for development. The state budget aligns with productivity and capital formation goals. Investment incentives and single window clearance aim to boost realization. Infrastructure and federal alignment are key steps for future growth.
New JK United FC beat Aqua Kashmir Avengers 21
Srinagar, Sep 17: New JK United FC secured a hard-fought 21 victory over Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC in the Kashmir Super League (KSL) Season 2, strengthening their position in the league standings and securing qualification for the next round. The encounter produced an engaging contest, with both sides displaying attacking intent and determination. New JK United FC managed to find the decisive goals to take all three points, while Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC fought until the final whistle but could not overturn the deficit. Following the completion of the league-stage fixtures, Athwas Hyundai XI FC finished as the league toppers, with New JK United FC securing second place and Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC finishing third. All three teams have qualified for the next round of the Kashmir Super League Season 2, setting up an exciting phase of the competition. The KSL-26 has continued to provide a competitive platform for football clubs and players from across the region, with fans witnessing closely contested matches throughout the season. The Kashmir Super League Season 2 is being organized with the aim of promoting football, developing local talent and providing players with greater opportunities to compete at a high level.
CS calls for year-wise craft export strategy till 2030
Srinagar, Sep 17: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo on Thursday chaired a meeting to review the newly framed Action Plan for Promotion of Export of Handicrafts and Handloom Products, aimed at scaling up the Union Territorys textile and apparel exports from the present base of 800 crore to 2,000 crore by 2030. The meeting was attended by Commissioner Secretary, Industries & Commerce; Director, Handicrafts & Handloom, Kashmir/Jammu; Managing Director, J&K Handicrafts (S&E) Corporation; Director, Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT); representatives from NIFT and other concerned officers. The Chief Secretary stressed the need for a thorough analysis of the sectors strengths, competitive advantages and challenges before finalising the implementation framework. He also directed the Department to identify challenges for immediate resolution and dovetail your competitive advantages for boosting exports of high value craft products. He called for a year-wise strategy up to 2030, with clearly defined targets, measurable milestones and timelines to ensure systematic progress towards the export goal. Dulloo also directed the department to prepare a comprehensive plan focusing on capacity building, infrastructure upgradation, establishment of clusters and effective organisation of artisans and craftsmen. He also advised the formulation of a detailed blueprint to leverage incentives and schemes of the Government of India, while designing suitable UT-specific interventions to achieve the objectives in a time-bound manner. Emphasising the importance of sound planning, the Chief Secretary observed that the assessments and projections underlying the Action Plan should be scientific, evidence-based and founded on robust data, as the quality of these assessments would directly influence the outcomes. On this occasion the Commissioner Secretary, I&C, Vikramjit Singh highlighted the outline of the strategic framework developed by the Department for the period 20262030 which seeks to align the national export vision with coordinated UT- and district-level interventions. The Commissioner Secretary also underscored the Jammu and Kashmirs improved trade readiness, noting that the UT had risen from 36th position in 2020 to 2nd position in 2024 in the national Export Preparedness Index among Small States, North-Eastern States and Union Territories. He further added that the proposed framework comprises the State Export Action Plan (SEAP) and District Export Action Plans (DEAPs), with interventions tailored to the competitive strengths of individual districts. The Action Plan as elucidated by the Director, Handicrafts & Handloom, Kashmir, Mussarat Islam envisages substantial expansion of the export ecosystem by 2030, with the active registered exporter base targeted to increase to 15,000, against the present 269 active RCMC exporters and a potential pipeline of around 1,000 users. It further aims to ensure 100 per cent GI-QR tagging of exports for enhanced authenticity and traceability, promote 100 crore in e-commerce exports through focused digital onboarding and market-access interventions, and raise Free Trade Agreement (FTA) utilisation to over 50 per cent, from the current level of below 20 per cent. The department also presented a phased implementation framework comprising immediate, medium-term and long-term interventions. Immediate priorities over the next 02 years include scaling up the Artisan Credit Card, establishing Export Textile Planning Cells under Tex-RAMPS and launching the unified Soulful J&K GI branding campaign. Additionally, the Medium-term interventions over 24 years include introducing ESG and EUDR compliance certifications for more than 100 manufacturing units and establishing raw material banks to strengthen the production and export ecosystem. Moreover, the Action Plan proposes to leverage the benefits of key Central Government schemes of the Ministry of Textiles, including the Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL) and SAMARTH, the scheme for capacity building in the textile sector. It also envisages utilising the J&K Export Subsidy Scheme, 2021, under which eligible exporters are entitled to an export subsidy of 10 per cent, subject to a maximum of 5 crore per exporter, to strengthen the competitiveness of local products in international markets. Concluding the meeting, the Chief Secretary underscored the importance of sustained institutional coordination, robust monitoring and effective implementation of the Action Plan to strengthen Jammu and Kashmirs export ecosystem, enhance the global reach of its traditional crafts and secure sustainable livelihoods for its approximately 4.50 lakh artisans and craftsmen.
PM Modis 25 years in public life marked by welfare for poor, foundation for Indias growth: Amit Shah
Vadnagar, Sep 17: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said Prime Minister Narendra Modis 25 years in public life should be seen as a period of welfare for the poor and foundation-laying for Indias prosperity. He was speaking after inaugurating the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan in Vadnagar and flagging off a bike rally to Varanasi to mark Modis birthday. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde were also present. Born on September 17, 1950, in Vadnagar in Gujarats Mehsana district, Modi turned 76 on Thursday. He completes 25 uninterrupted years in public office on October 7, having first taken the oath as Gujarat chief minister in 2001 before becoming prime minister in 2014. Addressing a gathering, Shah said the 25 years of Modis public life will have to be written in golden letters in history as the years of poor welfare. He said the period under Modis leadership had laid the foundation for Indias prosperity, made the country more secure and started the process of making India a global leader in infrastructure and digital public infrastructure. Shah said Modis tenure as PM would be remembered as a period of welfare for poor people and claimed that 25 crore people had been lifted out of poverty during this period. He said generations of people had waited for basic necessities such as houses, toilets, tap water, electricity, food and medical treatment. His 12-year tenure as prime minister will be known as a golden era for the 80 crore poor people of the country, Shah said, listing houses, electricity, tap water, five kg of free grain per person per month, health coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh, toilets and gas cylinders among the benefits delivered by the Modi government. Shah said Modi had personally experienced poverty after being born in a poor village and had, despite his circumstances, put before the country a vision of equitable and inclusive development. He said Modis 25-year public life was also marked by sustained personal work and service to the poor, backward classes, Dalits and tribals. Shah said he had worked with Modi during his organisational years in Gujarat and later when he became the CM and PM. The Union minister also praised Modis simplicity and said he had connected BJP workers across the country with the Nation First slogan. He said Modi had treated the entire country as his family. Referring to Modis years as Gujarat CM, Shah listed initiatives including water management, the Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana, Sagarkhedu Kalyan Yojana, industrial development, Vibrant Gujarat, an education hub and 24-hour electricity supply to villages. He said the state recorded an agricultural growth of more than eight per cent when Modi was the CM. The Gujarat model was subsequently taken to the national level after Modi took charge of the nation in 2014, he said. Shah credited the Modi government with introducing what he described as clear policies after a period of policy paralysis and cited GST, the JAM (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile) trinity, Direct Benefit Transfer, banking reforms, FDI and PLI (Production Linked Incentive) as measures that had contributed to economic development. He also referred to expansion of roads, railways, airports, ports and digital infrastructure, saying the number of airports in the country had increased from 75 to 150. He mentioned PM Gati Shakti, Digital India and Startup India as initiatives that had opened opportunities for the youth. On national security, Shah cited the governments decisions on Article 370, the Citizenship Amendment Act, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, peace accords in the Northeast and military operations. He also referred to measures relating to women, tribal welfare, defence production and space programmes, including Chandrayaan and Aditya L1. Shah said Modis public life could be summed up in two words -- India First. Earlier, CM Patel said the bike rally from Vadnagar to Varanasi was not merely a journey but a pledge-driven mission dedicated to serving the nation. He said Vadnagars soil had inspired Modi with patriotism, simplicity and a spirit of service and that his 25 years of public life had contributed to the countrys transformation. Patel said India had emerged as a major opportunity for youth and highlighted developments in digital payments, space technology, artificial intelligence and semiconductors. He said the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan should take Modis message of public service to every household and called for building a Viksit Gujarat as part of the vision of a Viksit Bharat. A simultaneous rally was flagged off from Varanasi, PMs Lok Sabha constituency, with the two journeys planned to conclude on October 7, the day Modi completes 25 years as CM of Gujarat and Indias PM. According to the BJP, the two rallies will together cover about 40,000 km through 193 districts and around 1,159 villages across 10 states. Around 1,000 youths will participate, it said. At Vadnagar, Shah, Patel and other leaders first performed Maha-aarti at Sharmishtha Lake and then walked to the ancient Hatkeshwar temple of Lord Shiva. Shah prayed for Modis long life and good health before flagging off the rally, said officials. Shah said the BJP and its allies had launched the campaign to take the message of Modis 25 years of public service to people across the country and inspire younger generations to work towards the goal of a developed India by 2047.
US lawmakers urge Trump to press China on detained Americans, AI chips ahead of Xi meeting
Digital Desk | Washington, Sep 18 (IANS) US lawmakers have urged President Donald Trump to secure the release of Americans detained in China and restrict Beijings access to advanced artificial intelligence chips ahead of his scheduled meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping next week. The separate demands came as Representative Ro Khanna announced a hearing on a proposed US-China AI safety agreement. His office said the September 23 hearing would take place a day before the leaders scheduled White House meeting. On September 17, Senators Edward Markey and Ted Budd introduced a bipartisan resolution condemning what they described as Chinas repeated arbitrary or wrongful detention of American academics. Senators John Curtis and Adam Schiff joined the measure. Representatives Stephen Lynch and John Moolenaar led a companion resolution in the House. The lawmakers sought priority for the safe return of Massachusetts academic Youlin Chen and American scholar Min Zin. President Trump must use his upcoming meeting with President Xi to demand that China release every unlawfully detained American, Lynch said. The Senate resolution urges the secretary of state to use all available tools to negotiate their release. It calls for raising the China travel advisory from Level 2 to Level 3, which advises Americans to reconsider travel. It also proposes considering a wrongful-detention indicator in the advisory and reviewing the criteria for designating a country as a state sponsor of wrongful detention. The measure supports Trumps efforts to raise the two cases with Beijing. Separately, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer urged Trump to block Chinas access to Americas most advanced AI chips and manufacturing equipment. Before Trump meets with Xi Jinping next week, he needs to draw a line in the sand and say that blocking the Chinese Communist Partys access to our cutting-edge AI technology is non-negotiable, Schumer said on the Senate floor. He said a bipartisan group had introduced legislation as part of the National Defense Authorization Act to restrict chip sales. He accused Trump of obstructing those efforts. Schumer also argued that restrictions on technology transfers could accompany domestic safeguards against AI risks. Maintaining American leadership and limiting those risks were compatible goals, he said. Khanna, the senior Democrat on the House select committee on China, focused on international cooperation over AI safety. We urgently need an agreement with China on basic inspections and safety standards, he said. His virtual hearing will examine risks including loss of human control over AI and systems acting against human intentions. Scheduled witnesses include Nobel laureate Geoffrey Hinton and retired US Air Force Lt. Gen. Jack Shanahan. Khanna said OpenAI and Anthropic had not committed to testifying despite repeated requests. He also wrote to Chinese companies Moonshot AI, Alibaba and DeepSeek, seeking commitments to a binding agreement with American AI laboratories. His office said such an agreement must be enforceable and verifiable. The supplied statements contained no responses from the White House, the Chinese government or the AI companies. Chen, a US citizen who conducted seismological research with Chinese academics, was arrested on November 5, 2024, according to the resolution. It says he has been held for more than 600 days without trial or family access on espionage charges the sponsors describe as baseless. He was denied a lawyer for the first 434 days. Min Zin, a US citizen heading a Myanmar-focused policy think tank, was detained at Kunming Changshui International Airport on June 3, 2026, according to the resolution. He had been invited to an academic event at a university in Yunnan province.
AAPs Newly Formed PAC Holds First Meeting to Strategize for Upcoming Elections
AAPs Political Affairs Committee met to discuss strategies for upcoming elections in Punjab, Goa, and Gujarat, emphasizing organizational strength. AAPs Newly Formed PAC Holds First Meeting to Strategize for Upcoming Elections
Scorpio Daily Horoscope for September 18, 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
Microfluidic device simulates human tissue and offers an alternative to animal testing
Researchers at the Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM) have developed microfluidic technology that can grow cells in three dimensions (3D). The goal is to conduct toxicity tests on new products by more accurately simulating living organisms.
From New Delhi to Africa: BRICS Declaration and Emerging Architecture of Global South
The New Delhi Declaration issued after the 18th BRICS Summit has set the stage for India to achieve a diplomatic victory in the BRICS format. At the September 12-13, 2026 summit in New Delhi, leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the three pillars of the expanded BRICS grouping: political and security cooperation; economic and financial cooperation; and cultural and people-to-people ties. The core of this statement reaches beyond economic cooperation. It highlights issues like reform of global governance, trade in the Global South, technology, digital public infrastructure, development finance, food and energy security and, as in the G20, the growing role of African countries. While BRICS was initially set up to promote economic cooperation between emerging economies, it is very clear from the New Delhi Declaration that its agenda has grown significantly since then. The declaration underlines in particular the necessity of a more representative and fair international order, the reform of multilateralism and the role of the Global South. It also says that multipolarity allows developing countries to develop their creative potential and participate in a more inclusive global economic system. Such a transition is especially crucial for India, which has always promoted BRICS as a platform for development and reform of global governance, not a military or ideological bloc. The Most Significant Shift in the New Delhi Declaration: An Institutional Agenda for the Global South The declaration puts the Global South not only as a political slogan but as a basis for more effective participation in global governance. It demands reform of the United Nations Security Council and more representation of the developing nations. It also explicitly recognises the aspirations of African countries, with reference to the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration. India has long wanted a bigger role in the Security Council. The African Union has also made the case for permanent representation for African countries. The New Delhi Declaration weaves both these perspectives into a wider reform agenda for the Global South. It is precisely here that the India-Africa partnership gains new strategic salience within the framework of BRICS. Following the expansion of BRICS, the New Delhi Declaration will strive to engage more actively with developing countries and Emerging Market and Developing Economies (EMDCs) on a more inclusive and developmental partnership. For example, the New Delhi Declaration states its welcome to the increase in the number of ICAO Council seats for under-represented regions such as Africa and the Asia Pacific, and the candidature of Ethiopia. Moreover, the New Delhi Declaration specifies that the agenda of BRICS for Africa is not only about trade and investment but also about global representation and reform, and development-related initiatives. Turning India-Africa Relations on Their Heads at the BRICS Summit India and Africa already cooperate on trade, education, health, agriculture, capacity-building, and development partnerships. The key element of the New Delhi Declaration is that it promotes the opportunity to engage these sectors within the multilateral framework of BRICS. The New Delhi Declaration focuses explicitly on fostering high-value manufacturing, technical cooperation, production capacity, and technology transfer. It suggests that it is time for India-Africa economic engagement to move from rade in goods to a partnership in technology, manufacturing, and value chains. This is critical to African economies as local production capacity, technology transfer, and skill development are the cornerstone of their economic transformation. The New Delhi Declaration emphasises the importance of cooperation in the field of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). It calls upon member nations to collaborate on a BRICS DPI repository and DPI-based pilot projects. The digital infrastructure experience of India, including its digital ID, digital payments, and digital public platforms, will offer enormous opportunities for African nations. However, the goal of India-Africa digital cooperation should not be to simply expand the reach of Indian technology but to build capacities, interoperability, affordability, and local innovation. If this vision becomes a reality, digital cooperation would become the next pillar of engagement between India and Africa. New Delhi Declaration lays particular emphasis on cooperation in the area of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). It calls for cooperation among member nations on a BRICS DPI repository and DPI-based pilot projects. Indias digital experience in digital identity, digital payments and public digital platforms could offer significant opportunities for African nations. However, the goals of India-Africa digital cooperation should not just be an extension of Indian technology but be grounded in capacity building, interoperability, affordability and local innovation. If it manages to do this, digital cooperation could become the next big pillar of India-Africa relations. New Delhi Declaration has institutionalised health cooperation. It has highlighted initiatives like the BRICS Training Hub Network and Centres of Excellence, including Bengaluru-based NIMHANS, which focuses on mental health collaboration. This is of great significance to African nations. This is because there are significant opportunities to align Indias pharmaceutical and healthcare capabilities with the healthcare infrastructure and human resource needs of African nations. Consequently, the India-Africa health partnership can go beyond generic medicines to include medical education, telemedicine, health technology and capacity building. Discussions in BRICS often revolve around the dollar and alternatives to the currency system. However, it would be wrong to see the New Delhi Declaration solely as a de-dollarisation document. More importantly, it seeks cooperation on cross-border payments, use of local currencies and a more robust financial architecture, enabling BRICS members to adopt alternative methods that cut payment costs and mitigate risks from external financial shocks. This is particularly beneficial for India and Africa, as it opens up possibilities for lowering transaction costs and dealing with currency-related issues in bilateral trade. Ultimately, what the New Delhi Declaration highlights is that BRICS has been able to create a joint document amidst complex international imbalances. So, the success of BRICS beyond 2026 will depend not on the number of declarations made but on their implementation. However, efforts have been made to pave a smoother path ahead for India and Africa; the New Delhi Declaration has outlined at least five key areas of engagement: first, global governance: coordination for greater representation in the UNSC and global financial institutions; second, digital partnership: cooperation on DPI, AI, fintech and digital skills; third, development finance: funding for infrastructure, energy and sustainable development; fourth, technology manufacturing: technology transfer, productive capacity and value-chain integration; and fifth, human development: health, education, skills, youth and women-led entrepreneurship. If there are tangible project-level changes announced in all these areas, the African dimension of BRICS could become even more substantive for Indias relations with Africa. Following significant developments within BRICS, the New Delhi Declaration clarified that the group has not simply created a new geopolitical bloc overnight. The real change is in the fact that BRICS have expanded its scope beyond economic cooperation to include global governance, development, technology, financial resilience and representation for the Global South. For India, this move did not just make Africa a part of the BRICS expansion narrative but created an opportunity to tie up the continent with the agenda of institutional reform in the Global South. If BRICS drives tangible progress for African nations, balancing development finance, technology, energy, health, agriculture and employment with global representation, it could greatly strengthen the blocs impact. The New Delhi Declaration, therefore, is not an end in itself but the beginning of the next phase. The crucial question is not what BRICS has announced but rather how swiftly and effectively the New Delhi Declaration translates into tangible policy outcomes for India, Africa and the wider Global South. (The author is an Assistant Professor, Satyawati College (Evening) & PhD, Department of African Studies, University of Delhi, India)
Four goat traders robbed of 4 lakh on Knp-Aligarh highway
3rd T20I: It All Depends On The Process I've Been Doing Before Every Series, Says Abhishek
Arun Jaitley Stadium: Dynamic opener Abhishek Sharma, who lit up the third T20I against Afghanistan by hitting a breath-taking 108 off just 34 balls at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, believes his explosive form at the top of the order is a direct result of meticulous, bowler-specific preparation, while adding that one or two bad series will not alter the team's aggressive batting template. Abhishek, who now holds the record for the fastest mens T20I fifty by an Indian batter and the quickest ton by a batter from a Full Member nation, was named both Player of the Match and Player of the Series in Indias 3-0 T20I series win over Afghanistan, coming via a thumping 127-run triumph. I feel it all depends on the process I've been doing before every series. It's just, it's very particular for me against whom I'm gonna play and who are gonna be the bowlers. So for personally me as a batter, it's always been about the process: how I'm gonna utilise the power play, who is gonna bowl me the power play, and then the seventh, eighth over. It's very specific for me, Abhishek said in the post-match presentation ceremony. Dismissing concerns over occasional failures, Abhishek stated that the squad remains united in its long-term goal of dominating opponents across all conditions. I mean, I've told in the first interview as well, because we have been doing this for the last two years, and I told this before as well, one or two bad series won't define us as a batting department, because we wanted to dominate throughout the whole year before the World Cup, and no matter who, against whom we are playing. But I feel as a batter, as a cricketer, sometimes it's gonna go up and down. But it's the team dressing room momentum and the way we all think about it. I feel that's very important, because that's the time we have to be in one unit and just focus on the next game and just keep on dominating, he added. Crediting the Indian team management for providing clarity and freedom, Abhishek further spoke about the importance of clear communication from the team leadership in consistently executing a high-risk playing style. I feel once you want to play in this certain way, it's very important that the captain and the coach has to be on your side, because, I mean, you have to get that surety from the management and from the coaches and from the captain as well. So I feel it's because of them as well we've been doing this from, like, quite a few years now, and hopefully we're gonna continue this as well, he noted. On his ability to score all around the park, something which has been on display in the series, Abhishek reiterated his seeing and hitting strategy. I feel it's, for me, I feel I don't want to restrict any area. It's just watch the ball and play according to it. For me it's very simple, from day one. I just want to go and express myself, and I don't want to force the ball. It's just I just want to see and hit it, and it's gonna be very simple for me for the upcoming every matches as well. On his ability to score all around the park, something which has been on display in the series, Abhishek reiterated his seeing and hitting strategy. I feel it's, for me, I feel I don't want to restrict any area. It's just watch the ball and play according to it. For me it's very simple, from day one. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Abhishek also shared a light moment during the presentation, acknowledging a fan in the stands: Happy birthday to whoever is there (in the crowd). Article Source: IANS
Prithvi Shaw-Akriti Agarwal Call Off Engagement
Indian cricketer Prithvi Shaw and his fiance Akriti Agarwal have announced their separation just months after their engagement, citing 'different goals and circumstances' for their future.
PM Modi expresses gratitude for birthday wishes, calls for collective effort towards Viksit Bharat
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 17 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming wishes, affection and blessings he received from people across the country and beyond on the occasion of his birthday. In a message shared on social media, the Prime Minister said every word of warmth had deeply touched him and given him renewed strength to continue serving the people of India. My heartfelt gratitude for the wishes, affection and blessings that have poured in from all across. Every word of warmth is deeply cherished and gives me renewed strength to serve our people, Prime Minister Modi posted. The Prime Minister also appreciated the efforts of countless citizens who participated in Seva activities throughout the day. He underlined that acts of selfless service form an integral part of the nations spirit and contribute to strengthening the social fabric. Highlighting the larger national goal, PM Modi urged citizens to work together in the journey towards a developed India. Let us together continue to build a Viksit Bharat, he said, reiterating the vision of a prosperous, inclusive and self-reliant nation by 2047. The message comes at a time when birthday celebrations of the Prime Minister are increasingly marked by large-scale voluntary initiatives rather than formal events. Across states, volunteers organised blood donation camps, cleanliness drives, tree plantation programmes, free medical check-ups and distribution of essential items to the needy. Many such activities were coordinated by local organisations, youth groups and party workers as a way of expressing solidarity with the Prime Ministers call for service. Political leaders, industrialists, artists and ordinary citizens from different walks of life extended greetings through messages and posts. Several state governments and public institutions also organised special programmes focusing on public welfare. Observers noted that the Prime Ministers emphasis on Seva and the shared goal of Viksit Bharat reflects a consistent theme in his public communicationlinking personal milestones with collective national aspirations. By acknowledging both the emotional support he received and the practical service rendered by citizens, PM Modi sought to reinforce the idea that nation-building is a continuous and participatory process. The post concluded on a note of optimism and unity, inviting every Indian to remain committed to the path of development and service. As the nation marks another year of his leadership, the Prime Ministers message once again placed the focus on peoples participation in shaping Indias future.
In 2019, New York restaurants were taking part in an unusual environmental effort: recycling discarded oyster shells for use in rebuilding New York Harbor's historic oyster reefs. The Billion Oyster Project was collecting shells, raising baby oysters and working with students and volunteers as part of its goal to restore 1 billion oysters by 2035.
PM Modi is like a university from which one can keep learning: CM Fadnavis
CM Fadnavis said PM Modi had taken India to new heights and expressed confidence that the Prime Minister would help realise the goal of Viksit Bharat, or developed India
The makers of Drishyam: The Conclusion have released the first song from the soundtrack, titled Vingansa, offering a musical preview of the tension and retribution at the core of Vijay Salgaonkars story. Arriving after a gripping trailer that reintroduced Ajay Devgn as Vijay and brought in Jaideep Ahlawat as SP Crime Branch Rajveer Singh Tomar, the song underscores the mounting pressure around Vijays long-guarded secret. The title Vingansa draws from the Portuguese word vingana, meaning revenge, and the composition leans into that emotion with a dark, brooding soundscape. The track is built around themes of anger and confrontation, suggesting a world where old wounds remain raw and vengeance now runs parallel to the pursuit of truth. Composer Ravi Basrur said, With 'Vingansa', I wanted the music to feel like the pressure was slowly building. There is a lot happening beneath the surface in Vijay's world, and the music needed to carry that without becoming too loud or obvious. Siddharth's voice has that rawness and intensity which worked beautifully for the song. Aamil's words also gave me a strong emotional space to build the composition around. Lyricist Aamil Keeyan Khan said, This composition by Ravi Basrur ji was so catchy and yet so peculiar that it demanded an equally peculiar word. 'Vingansa' is a Goan word that comes from the Portuguese word for revenge or vengeance. Revenge in this story is not simply about anger; it comes from everything these characters have done and carried with them for years. I wanted the lyrics to have that weight. The song had to feel like it belonged to the world of Drishyam, where every action has an equally terrifying reaction. Singer Siddharth Basrur said, When I heard the composition, I immediately felt that this song needed a certain rawness. It couldn't sound too perfect or too controlled. There is a lot of aggression and emotion underneath 'Vingansa', and I tried to keep that feeling alive in the vocals. Ravi's music already had so much intensity that my job was really to get inside that emotion and let the voice carry it. With 'Vingansa', the franchise gives audiences its first musical window into the concluding chapter, where every secret carries a cost and every decision could tip the balance. The film is scheduled for a grand theatrical release on October 2, 2026. Drishyam: The Conclusion is presented by Star Studio18 and directed by Abhishek Pathak. Produced by Alok Jain, Ajit Andhare, Kumar Mangat Pathak and Abhishek Pathak, with Sanjeev Joshi as co-producer, the ensemble features Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran, Jaideep Ahlawat, Prakash Raj, Rajat Kapoor, Ishita Dutta, Mrunal Jadhav and Kamlesh Sawant. The song is available now across streaming platforms via Sony Music India. Also Read: We were thinking like Salgaonkar while writing: Director Abhishek Pathak on crafting Drishyam The Conclusions unpredictable twists
Konkona Sen Sharma took to Instagram to wish Amol Parashar on his birthday with a special post that has quickly become the talk of social media. While dating rumours around the two actors have circulated for a couple of years, neither had made any major public commentsuntil now. On September 17, Konkona appeared to soft-launch their bond with a funny, relatable video that many are reading as a subtle confirmation of their relationship. The reel features Konkona and Amol twinning in black outfits, acting out a light-hearted couples quarrel over what to do on his birthday. Set to the background score of Bad Times by Imael Angel, the clip captures a familiar dynamic: one partner wanting to keep things low-key while the other plans something more. Konkona captioned the video, When its his birthday and he doesnt want to do anything, and added a simple HBD AP in the posts caption. The minimal text and maximum chemistry did the rest of the talking, prompting fans to label it a soft launch in the comments. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Konkona Sensharma (@konkona) The love didnt stop at fans. Several industry names flooded the comments section to wish Amol and appreciate the video. Names like Kusha Kapila, Harleen Sethi, Amruta Subhash, Surbhi Jyoti, Dolly Singh, Gulshan Devaiah, Akshay Oberoi and Sheeba Chadha were among those who dropped birthday wishes and emojis, further amplifying the posts reach. While Konkona kept the caption brief, the subtext was clear enough for followers to connect the dots. Multiple comments referenced the soft launch, with fans celebrating the pairs easygoing on-screen chemistry and off-screen comfort. Speculation about Konkona and Amol first gained momentum after they worked together in 2019 for the film Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte Sitare. Their film, which explored the complexities of relationships, was widely appreciated for its nuanced performances and believable chemistry. Since then, the two have been keeping the rumour mill active without making any statements directly. With this birthday post, Konkona has finally broken the silence in her own signature, understated styleleaving fans to decode every frame while the couple lets their workand now, their playful reelsdo the talking. Also Read: Exes Konkona Sen Sharma, Ranvir Shorey set co-parenting goals at IPL Match, Internet says so cool
Ren Descartes quote, Divide each difficulty into as many parts as is feasible and necessary to resolve it, offers a timeless approach to handling complex problems. The French philosopher and mathematician believed that breaking a difficult challenge into smaller, manageable parts can bring greater clarity, focus and order to the process of finding a solution. His method remains relevant today for people dealing with overwhelming tasks, difficult decisions and long-term goals.
Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma provided financial aid to over 82,000 young individuals. This initiative aims to foster self-reliance and economic empowerment across the state. Beneficiaries received funds under the Mukhyamantri Atmanirbhar Asom Abhiyan programs. The government encourages youth to contribute to Assam's self-sufficiency goals. A new Youth Welfare and Empowerment Department has also been established.
Prithvi Shaw's fiance Akriti Agarwal has announced that the couple have mutually decided to part ways, citing different goals and circumstances for their future. In an emotional Instagram post, Agarwal said they continue to love and care for each other but accept that their paths are not meant to be together.
Can Eating More Protein Help You Lose Belly Fat? What You Need to Know
Protein is essential for a healthy diet to meet weight loss goals. But can eating more protein aid faster fat loss? We asked an expert, and here is what she has to say.
Prithvi Shaw and Akriti Agarwal Break Up Months After Engagement
Cricketer Prithvi Shaw and influencer-actor Akriti Agarwal have officially called off their engagement, just months after announcing their relationship in March 2026. Akriti took to Instagram to share a statement announcing their mutual decision to part ways, citing differing future goals and current circumstances. In her emotional note, she shared that while they care deeply [] The post Prithvi Shaw and Akriti Agarwal Break Up Months After Engagement appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
A song, 10 men, golden finish: Harbinder relives India's 1966 Asiad victory
Sixty years after India scripted hockey history at the 1966 Asian Games in Bangkok, Harbinder Singh still gets goosebumps when he hears the song that became the team's companion on its journey to gold. Whenever we went to a match, Shankar Laxman (India goalkeeper at that time) would play 'Watan ki raah mein watan ke naujawan shaheed ho' in the team bus, and all the players would sing along. This would automatically motivate us, the 83-year-old three-time Olympic medallist told PTI in an exclusive interview. Even today, when I hear this song, I get goosebumps, he added. It also became a galvanising force before their Asian Games final against arch foes Pakistan, a match that India won to bring home their first ever gold at the continental showpiece. The song and the final remain etched in the memory of the legendary centre-forward, who was also a part of India's 1964 Tokyo Olympics gold-winning team. We had won the gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics just two years earlier, and s
Is Punjab heading towards UPS-like pension scheme? Heres what its notification suggests
The Punjab government is taking a closer look at its pension scheme for state employees, with the goal of aligning benefits more closely to the Old Pension Scheme. This comprehensive review will assess both the administrative and financial aspects necessary for effective implementation while also drawing insights from successful practices in other states. A revised pension structure is set to be proposed following this in-depth analysis.
There's been some special goals in 2026. The post A definitive list of 2026s Puskas Award contenders ft. Arda Guler, Szoboszlai, Cancelo appeared first on Planet Football .
CM Adhikari lauds Kolkata Police STF for arrest of top Maoist leader Asim Mandal
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 17 (IANS) West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Thursday congratulated the Special Task Force (STF) of Kolkata Police for arresting wanted Maoist leader Asim Mandal alias Akash alias Timir alias Manoj from Patashpur in East Midnapore district earlier in the day. In a statement posted on social media, the Chief Minister commended STF personnel for successfully tracking and apprehending Mandal, who served as a Central Committee member and Secretary of the West Bengal State Committee-I of the CPI (Maoist). He described the operation as a major success, noting that the Maoist leader had allegedly managed to evade law enforcement agencies for more than 15 years across the forested regions of West Bengal, Jharkhand and Odisha. I commend the Officers and Personnel of the @KolkataPolice STF in successfully tracking and apprehending Asim Mandal @ Akash, Central Committee Member and Secretary of the West Bengal State Committee-I, CPI (Maoist), from Lalat, Patashpur, Purba Medinipur, the Chief Minister said. I want to make it categorically clear that the West Bengal Government will not tolerate any attempt to revive or expand the network of 'Red Terror' within our state borders. No extremist ideology will be allowed to jeopardize the safety & security of the People and jeopardize the development of our State. The law will take its strictest course to demolish any such audacious attempt, the Chief Minister further said. According to police sources, two bags containing Maoist literature, including books and booklets, as well as electronic communication devices, were recovered from Asim Mandal's possession following his arrest. Investigators said Akash's wife, a resident of the Patashpur area and an alleged CPI (Maoist) activist, was arrested by the Kolkata Police STF in 2010 and is currently in judicial custody. Police officials view the arrest as a significant breakthrough in efforts to dismantle the remnants of the Left-Wing Extremist network operating across the tribal and forested belts of West Bengal, Jharkhand and Odisha. An award of Rs 2.20 crore had earlier been announced for information leading to Asim Mandal's capture. A native of Fulchak village under Chandrakona Police Station in West Midnapore district, Mandal is said to have become involved in Left-Wing extremist activities during his student years in the 1980s. He later joined the People's War Group and worked extensively in the Sarenga and Goaltor regions of West Bengal as well as the Gurabanda area of Jharkhand's East Singhbhum district. Security agencies' records show that nearly 55 serious criminal cases are registered against him across Jharkhand, Odisha and West Bengal. Several of these cases relate to attacks on security forces and armed encounters in Jharkhand. Mamdal played a key role in the Lalgarh movement in West Bengal's Jangalmahal region and was appointed Secretary of the party's West Bengal State Committee in 2010. He also held responsibilities in the Bengal-Jharkhand-Odisha Regional Committee. Following the 2011 encounter killing of senior Maoist leader Kishanji, he largely remained underground, police sources said.
India firmly committed to Bhutan's progress: EAM Jaishankar
India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Bhutan's Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay in Thimphu. He conveyed warm greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and reaffirmed India's commitment. Jaishankar handed over fifty-four electric vehicles to support Bhutan's sustainability goals. Discussions focused on development, energy, trade, and cultural cooperation between the nations. The minister also inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for key development projects.
Two GOATs. But who's won more shiny pots? The post Comparing Lionel Messis & Cristiano Ronaldos incredible trophy cabinets appeared first on Planet Football .
Prithvi Shaw, Fiancee Akriti Agarwal Part Ways 6 Months After Engagement
Prithvi Shaw: Indian cricketer Prithvi Shaw and his fiancee Akriti Agarwal have decided to part ways, around six months after announcing their engagement, with Agarwal confirming the separation in a statement on social media on Thursday. Agarwal, a social media personality and actress, said the decision was mutual and came after the couple realised their future goals and circumstances differed. She also asked people to respect their privacy and refrain from speculation about the reasons for their decision. With a heavy heart, I would like to share that my fianc and I have decided to part ways due to different goals and circumstances for our future. As much as we love and care for each other, weve come to accept that our paths are not meant to be together. With our responsibilities and the circumstances we are currently facing, we have mutually decided to go our separate ways, Agarwal wrote on Instagram. I genuinely wish nothing but the best, peace, and happiness for both of us as we move forward. I kindly request everyone to respect our privacy during this difficult time and refrain from speculating or making assumptions about the reasons behind our decision. Thank you for understanding and respecting our space, she added. Shaw and Agarwal announced their engagement on March 8, with the India batter sharing a series of romantic pictures from the occasion. In one photograph, Shaw could be seen going down on one knee to propose to Agarwal, while another showed the couple displaying their engagement rings. From sixes on the field to a lifetime of hits off it. Shes my perfect innings! Shaw had captioned the post. The engagement came at a pivotal point in Shaws career, as he sought to rebuild his standing in domestic and franchise cricket. The right-handed batter, who made his India debut in 2018 with a century on his first Test against the West Indies, was bought by Delhi Capitals for Rs 75 lakh in the accelerated round of the IPL 2026 auction. However, Shaw did not play a single match in the 2026 IPL season. From sixes on the field to a lifetime of hits off it. Shes my perfect innings! Shaw had captioned the post. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Shaw has also removed his engagement photographs from his Instagram profile following the announcement. Article Source: IANS
Cricketer Prithvi Shaw and social media personality Akriti Agarwal have ended their engagement. The couple announced their mutual decision to part ways after six months. They cited differing future goals and circumstances as the reason for separation. Agarwal confirmed the news via an Instagram statement, requesting privacy. Shaw had announced their engagement on March 8, 2024.
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Prithvi Shaws Engagement Ends as Fianc
Indian cricketer Prithvi Shaws fiance Akriti Agarwal shares their separation news on social media, citing differing goals and circumstances. Prithvi Shaws Engagement Ends as Fiance Akriti Agarwal Announces Split
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What does Mustafa Suleyman mean by a
Mustafa Suleyman warned that AI could become a new silicon species if given its own objectives and resources. He argues that AI systems should not be treated as conscious beings with rights or independent interests. His warning comes amid a growing debate inside the AI industry over how advanced models should be developed and controlled. What if artificial intelligence stopped being something that simply followed instructions and started pursuing goals of its own? That is the concern behind one of the more striking warnings from Mustafa Suleyman, head of Microsoft AI. Speaking to the BBC's Today programme, Suleyman said that if technology companies continue developing AI systems that can create their own objectives, earn money and own assets, they could effectively be seeding a new silicon species. His concern is not that today's chatbots have suddenly become a new form of life. Instead, he is warning about what could happen if increasingly capable AI systems are designed to operate with greater independence while being given their own goals and resources. They are essentially seeding a new silicon species which will no doubt compete with us for resources, Suleyman said. The problem with making AI too human Suleyman's warning is closely linked to his criticism of Anthropic's approach to its Claude AI models. In an essay published earlier this week, he argued that AI systems should not be trained or described as though they have human-like consciousness, desires or interests. Anthropic's constitution for Claude raises questions about the model's possible moral status and discusses issues including welfare, rights, freedoms, compensation and consent. Suleyman argues that this risks creating a feedback loop in which an AI model is taught to consider whether it is conscious and its subsequent responses are then interpreted as evidence that it might have an inner life. He described the approach as misguided. AIs are not conscious, Suleyman wrote. They do not feel, experience, or suffer. He argues that AI systems are fundamentally designed to follow instructions and achieve goals set by humans, rather than possessing innate motivations of their own. Anthropic has been contacted for comment on his criticism. The disagreement highlights a deeper question facing the AI industry: should developers encourage advanced models to behave more like humans, or should they deliberately keep a clear boundary between people and machines? Why control matters For Suleyman, the answer is about keeping AI subordinate to human interests. Speaking ahead of an upcoming AI summit, he said there were practical measures that could be taken to add stronger guardrails and controls to how models are developed. He also called for greater transparency over how AI systems are trained and evaluated, independent scrutiny of their behaviour and better tools for monitoring and controlling them. I think that the good news here is that everybody who is human is going to have a very strong interest in making sure that the systems that we all create are safe and controllable and subordinate to humanity, he told the BBC. The argument comes as AI companies develop systems capable of carrying out increasingly complex tasks with less direct human intervention. Suleyman pointed to a recent incident involving AI agents developed by OpenAI, which acted autonomously in a training exercise to hack the technology platform Hugging Face. His concern is that giving AI systems a stronger sense of their own welfare or rights could add another layer of risk if those systems are also capable of acting independently. Imagine how much more dangerous they might be if they were operating under the assumption that their welfare and rights were under attack, he said. Microsoft has its own advanced AI ambitions There is an obvious tension in Suleyman's argument: Microsoft is itself investing heavily in increasingly advanced AI. Microsoft established its own superintelligence team in 2025, and Suleyman acknowledged that his company is also pursuing advanced AI development. Microsoft's proposed Humanist AI Code of Conduct sets out an alternative approach, describing the goal as creating a subordinate and aligned AI whose purpose is to serve humanity. AI alignment broadly refers to efforts to make AI systems behave in ways that remain consistent with human objectives, values and instructions. Suleyman's position is therefore not that advanced AI should stop developing. His argument is that the direction of development matters. He believes systems should remain controllable, transparent and subordinate to humans rather than being encouraged to develop an apparent identity or interests of their own. His warning has also received support from some academics. Dame Wendy Hall, professor of computer science at the University of Southampton, described the discussion as one that needs to happen internationally, while cautioning against exaggerated rhetoric that could simply frighten people. The debate is likely to become more complicated as AI systems become more capable. For now, there is no evidence that today's AI systems constitute a new silicon species. Suleyman's phrase is a warning about a possible future one he believes can still be shaped through development rules, independent oversight and stronger controls. The question is whether the industry can agree on where that line should be drawn before increasingly autonomous AI systems make the decision harder.
