LeBron James has etched his name in NBA history, becoming the first player to reach 23 seasons. Despite a recent sciatica-related absence, the Los Angeles Lakers star continues to impress with his enduring production and durability. The Lakers player also surpassed Reggie Miller, while playing against Utah Jazz, to claim sixth place on the leagues all-time three-point field goals list
It has now almost become an urban legend how the then chief minister, Manohar Parrikar, at the beginning of this century requested the then Union minister for information and broadcasting, Sushma Swaraj to hold the International Film Festival of India in Goa, and how she agreed with a pre-condition that he should raise the required []
PTI | Dhaka Already out contention for a spot in the 2027 Asian Cup, India suffered another embarrassing defeat, losing 0-1 to Bangladesh in their penultimate Group C match of qualifying round here on Tuesday. Sheikh Morsalin scored the all-important goal for Bangladesh in the 11th minute to the wild cheer of the capacity crowd []
Central Bank of Oman approves Maal card fees, cutting merchant costs by up to 50%
Omans Central Bank has approved the Maal consumer debit and prepaid card fee structure, offering zero issuance and annual fees for users. Merchant Service Fees are capped, cutting costs by up to 50%. The card, launched on November 20, supports secure, low-cost digital payments across ATMs, POS, and e-commerce, advancing financial inclusion and Oman Vision 2040s digital economy goals.
For many men, this moment in time feels both liberating and unsettling. They are learning to shed rigid gender roles within relationships even as society continues to judge them by an outdated set of metrics: the pay cheque, job title, and the ability to provide. While some groups view the man as provider and the woman as homemaker, many men across age groups say they no longer see themselves in that framework. In a culture shaped by patriarchy but nudged increasingly towards equality, the contradictions are hard to ignore. So how are men making sense of this evolving landscape? Anoop Kunhiraman, 35, a former banking and insurance professional, took on the role of traditional breadwinner during the early days of his marriage in 2019, when his wife was studying for a teachers training course and was financially dependent on him. But he says he never felt it was a burden. The only time I felt any pressure was during the pandemic when my salary got cut. But that too was a learning experience, as in the process I learnt how to manage expectations. And most importantly, learnt to say no, he recalls. Today, his family has grown: he is the father of a one-year-old daughter, and his wife, Sneha, works as a teacher. The couple now happily challenge gender roles, with Anoop taking a break from his career this July to pursue his passion, which blends the performing arts and technology. Coming to such a decision, he says, required some unlearning, but it was made easier by his wifes support. She backed me. We just had to make sure that she would be able to handle the financial responsibilities, as the sole earning member of the family, considering the pay gap, he says. Anoop Kunhiraman As for how others reacted, he adds, There were people who were taken aback, but that is their headache, not mine. But is it more difficult for unmarried men to shift from high-paying careers to lesser-paying jobs that align more with their life goals? It appears so. Take Rohith Raman (name changed), for instance, who left his six-figure corporate job to pursue a career as a freelance writer. One of the biggest concerns people had now was who would marry me. But these same people would have been okay with a woman leaving her high-paying job for a teaching job. Not because they are supportive of her career, but because they are okay with women getting paid less, he says. Thirty-four-year-old RJ Adarsh Anoop, also known as Rythom, shares a slightly different experience. From being a young man fresh out of college, feeling the pressure to find a high-paying job and watching friends buy cars or go abroad for better opportunities, he has transformed into someone far more at ease. My wife has always been ahead of me in her career, as she is older than me. But that didnt bring any differences between us. Today, we both share our financial responsibilities, he says. Another cultural aspect many men have to navigate is the question of chivalry. When is it welcome? When is it outdated? Adarsh believes chivalry can never go out of style. To me, it is the true mark of a man, he says. My wife has to take care of our younger one constantly, and there are some situations where I cannot step in. She also has to deal with a lot of unseen burdens. The least I can do is carry all the bags, he says. Adarsh Anoop But unwanted chivalry can be a problem. Recently, actor R Madhavan also expressed confusion about chivalry becoming an outdated concept. Gestures like opening the door, he noted, might be considered offensive these days. Chivalry, he added, has been redefined and men have to learn the new ways. Psychiatrist Arun B Nair says men in their forties and below have evolved with time. The confusion, be it the reluctance to accept change or learn and unlearn, persists mainly among the older generation, he adds. Basic behaviour in professional and social spaces how to behave in the office, how to talk to women has become a muddied area for some men. For instance, unless there is mutually comfortable rapport, complimenting women on their appearance or attire could be viewed as offensive. And men are going through the unlearn-and-learn process. Some are learning it the hard way, Dr Arun says with a smile. As the world changes faster than ever, the concept of what a man is also constantly evolving. According to him, until recent times, toxic masculinity often defined men. Patriarchy assigned such roles to men. They couldnt ask for support or help, they couldnt be emotional or appear weak. That is why many call patriarchy a double-edged sword. Now, it is changing, says Dr Arun. Men can now show weakness, seek support from their friends, partner, parents or counsellors. Their role in daily household matters is more present they can manage the kitchen and take care of the kids. Men are also becoming empowered just like women. An empowered man is aware of his own limitations and seeks support to overcome them. He recalls a couple who came to him for counselling a few months ago. It was an arranged marriage, and both were IT engineers. Both came from rural areas the man from a conservative family, and the woman empowered and aware of her rights. He believed in controlling her, something he learnt from his parents. The woman was okay initially. The issue became bigger when he insisted she take care of the home completely while also working. Even if she had a night shift, he expected her to finish kitchen work. When things deteriorated, they were referred to counselling. Now, after six months, they are doing better. He is unlearning and learning how to be a partner in its true sense, says Dr Arun. Behind all of this lie traditional gender roles that took root when nomadic tribes began adopting the idea of private property, says sociologist Bushra Begum. Till then, there was equality and shared responsibilities among men and women. It is when men decided that they needed their own properties like family, woman and land that this trouble started, she says. The little change that we do see has been brought about through social media and the third wave of feminism. It was during this period, as women entered the workforce in large numbers, that society began to recognise that they too could bear the same economic burden as men. That was a turning point. T D Ramakrishnan Novelist T D Ramakrishnan sees this as a welcome shift. I grew up in a time when fathers were the sole earning members of the family. It is good to see men become comfortable with changing gender dynamics, he says. He adds that if he had the same opportunities earlier, he wouldnt have had to wait until his fifties to pursue what he truly wanted writing. I see a transition in my childrens generation, he says. Both my son and daughter are working, they both have equal responsibilities and challenges in life. There is no point in seeing them differently. I think it is of great relief to men as well. Inputs by Krishna P S
Spectacular injury-time goals from Kieran Tierney and Kenny McLean secured Scotland's dramatic 4-2 victory over Denmark, sealing their 2026 World Cup qualification. Spain, Belgium, Switzerland, and Austria also confirmed their spots, with Scotland reaching the tournament for the first time since 1998.
Living and Leaving Well : Author Jerry Pinto's latest book dives into the realm of palliative care
Death is a topic many approach with denial. But writer and journalist Jerry Pinto who won the Best Book on Cinema Award at the 54th National Film Awards has spent nearly two years doing something most people avoid: listening to stories about illness, pain, caregiving and the inevitable death. His new book, A Good Life (699, Juggernaut), is the result of this long, emotionally demanding journey into the world of palliative care in India. Through conversations with patients, caregivers, doctors, nurses and families, Pinto opens a conversation that society has kept on hold for too long. Behind the book was a strong will. His close friend, painter-illustrator Mehlli Gobhai, before his passing, had left money for childrens charities and named Pinto as one of the executors. While searching for the right cause to support, he came across the paediatric palliative care unit at a childrens hospital in Mumbai. They wanted to hire a librarian who would read to children and keep them entertained in their hospital beds, he shares. It touched something deep inside me. It fitted in with who I am a great believer in the power of the story, and with what Mehlli would have wanted, he reminisces. This discovery led him into the larger world of palliative care. He soon met doctors from the Cipla Palliative Care network who encouraged him to write a book on the subject, which was when he realised that palliative care was universal. At some point, we will be caregivers or we will need care. We are never going to be just bystanders, he says. Later, across visits to Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Goa, Pinto encountered many stories that reshaped his understanding of illness and mortality. To his dismay, he discovered from Dr MR Rajagopal that only 4 per cent of India has access to end-stage pain relief, despite the country being one of the worlds leading producers of legal morphine. Another moment came when a doctor told him that modern medicine can only cure 15 to 20 per cent of diseases. However, the stories that stayed with him were the ones where compassion went beyond protocol. He recounts how a Bengaluru doctor tracked down a patients estranged son so the mother, who was dying, could speak to him one last time. The doctor becomes a detective. That, to me, is the real art of medicine caring about people, he says. For Pinto, stories are essential to change how one views dying. Only stories can create any shift. One misconception is that people will not be able to take the news of a life-threatening disease, so families keep them in the dark. When we begin to accept that death is part of life, that it can be made beautiful or easy, that is when the stories make an impact, he said. In Goa, he met a 28-year-old man who had spent two decades lying in bed because no one had told him he could sit up. Through steady visits and reassurance, a palliative care team helped him sit, use a wheelchair and re-enter the world. A life was changed by this one intervention, Pinto points out. On choosing the title, he notes, Palliative care is associated only with the last stage of life, as if you should wait for the last two weeks. But palliative care is about helping you lead a good life. Additionally, writing the book changed him, too. My fear of death has gone, he says, adding, It wasnt death I feared, but indignity and hopelessness. Through A Good Life , he hopes readers and policymakers absorb that everyone has the right to live and leave well with dignity.
Blue Tigers suffer embarrassing 0-1 loss to Bangladesh
Dhaka, Nov 18: Already out of contention for a spot in the 2027 Asian Cup, India suffered another embarrassing defeat, losing 0-1 to Bangladesh in their penultimate Group C match of qualifying round here on Tuesday. Sheikh Morsalin scored the all-important goal for Bangladesh in the 11th minute to the wild cheer of the capacity []
How to graduate from college debt-free in the US using FAFSA, scholarships, and financial aid
Graduating from college debt-free in the US is achievable with careful planning and use of FAFSA, scholarships, and financial aid. Public universities offer the most affordable tuition, averaging $11,950 in-state for 2025-26, while private colleges average $45,000. Nearly 75% of undergraduates receive financial aid, which significantly reduces costs. Strategic use of grants, merit aid, and work-study opportunities can help students minimise or eliminate student loans, making debt-free graduation a realistic goal.
ZP polls postponed to Dec 20over seat reservation petitions
NT Reporter Panaji The elections to both zilla panchayats in the state has been postponed to December 20, 2025 by the government, in view of petitions filed in the High Court of Bombay at Goa challenging the reservation of segments. The ZP polls had been scheduled to be held on December 13. However, the Department []
Goans turn to NSE to make moolah
Shoma Patnaik Panaji Goans are highly interested in equity and capital markets investments with the state having as many as 2.68 lakh registered investors on the National Stock Exchange (NSE), Mumbai, as on October 31, this year. A research report by the NSE, has disclosed that the state saw a sharp rise in the number []
Chia seeds body absorption: More in water or milk? Right choice decides how much nutrition you get
Chia seeds offer fibre, omega-3 fats and essential minerals, but their benefits depend on how they are soaked. Water and milk change how the seeds swell, how quickly they digest and how the body absorbs nutrients. Each soaking method influences factors like gut movement, satiety, hydration and blood sugar response in different ways. The most suitable option varies according to individual health goals.
NEW DELHI: Signalling the intent to advance their strategic partnership, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh on Tuesday co-chaired the India-Germany High Defence Committee meeting with the State Secretary, German Ministry of Defence, Jens Plotner. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) said, The co-chairs reaffirmed commitment to enhance military-to-military cooperation with a focus on developing defence ties as a key pillar of the Strategic Partnership between India and Germany. They discussed a range of bilateral security and defence issues including priority areas for co-development & co-production of defence equipment, the MoD added. India and Germany celebrate 25 years of their strategic partnership this year. The strategic partnership has been strengthened through inter-governmental consultations since 2011 at the level of heads of government. They also exchanged views on the regional security situation and discussed intensifying bilateral exchanges including institution of military exercises. Germany will be participating in the next edition of Exercise Tarang Shakti (multinational air combat exercise) and Milan (multinational naval exercise) which is planned in 2026. In August 2024, as TNIE reported earlier, for the first time, Germany participated in an aerial exercise on Indian soil and its Eurofighter Typhoon carried out air manoeuvres. India seeks to boost strategic partnership with Germany as defence ministers meet in Delhi India is the 'First Responder' and 'Net Security Provider' for countries in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), the MoD added. The Defence Secretary informed the visiting German delegation that India's approach to the region is guided by its vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement of Security and Growth Across Regions), it said. India has been working closely with countries in the IOR on a range of areas from development partnership, defence and maritime security, capacity building and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. The German side acknowledged India's role in the Indian Ocean Region. The two sides emphasised the need for a closer defence partnership and connecting the industries of both nations, especially in niche technologies. India and Germany have a long-standing relationship underpinned by common values and shared goals. The importance of strengthening defence and security aspects of the relationship has increased manifold which reflects the mutual trust that has been nurtured across decades. In a boost to defence ties in August 2024, the Indian Naval Ship Tabar conducted a Maritime Passage Exercise (MPX) with Sea Lynx of the German Navy. Navies of India and Germany carry out advanced maritime operations
Priyanka Chopra shares photos from her 'healing' Goan getaway
Priyanka Chopra took her followers on a visual journey through her relaxing getaway to Goa, where she expressed her love for the vibrant city. While preparing for her much-anticipated Telugu debut in SS Rajamouli's epic 'Varanasi' alongside stars Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran, she found joy in a friendly game of carrom and marveled at the coastal landscapes.
Coffee Board of India sets a target to double production to over 7 lakh tonnes by 2047
Goal is to achieve 15% speciality coffee out of this 7 lakh tons, says Coffee Board Chairman M.J. Dinesh
Year-end is just around the corner: Here are 5 money rules you must follow in 2026
Every year, it's essential to review and update your investment portfolio to ensure that you're on track to achieve your financial goals.
India launches updated action plan to combat rising antimicrobial resistance
NEW DELHI: Marking the start of the WHOs World AMR Awareness Week (1824 November), India has launched an updated National Action Plan to address the countrys rapidly growing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) crisis. The Centre emphasised that AMR, which threatens critical medical procedures and long-term treatments, demands urgent and collective action. Union Health Minister JP Nadda, while unveiling the National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (NAP-AMR 2.0), said AMR poses significant risks, particularly in surgical procedures, cancer treatment and other essential healthcare interventions. He added that the overuse and misuse of antibiotics has unfortunately become common practice, underscoring the urgency for corrective measures. The NAP-AMR 2.0 is a significant step in tackling AMR through a One Health approach. With participation from over 20 ministries and clear timelines and budgets, stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to protecting public health, the ministry said in a statement. The second version of the National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (202529) addresses gaps identified in the first NAP-AMR and strengthens efforts to create public awareness and private sector participation, among other areas. Nadda noted that Indias AMR journey began in 2010 with initial discussions, followed by the launch of the first NAP-AMR in 2017. Stressing the key strategies to be implemented under NAP-AMR 2.0, he highlighted the importance of increasing awareness, education and training. He said there is a requirement for enhancing laboratory capacity and infection control in healthcare facilities, emphasising the need for regular stakeholder meetings to resolve challenges promptly. At the launch, Dr A.K. Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, said the updated plan is a timely initiative for generating a more coherent and coordinated response to AMR, noting that it was being released appropriately on the first day of the WHOs AMR awareness campaign. He added that India is one of the pioneers in driving this effort globally and described AMR as like a pandemic affecting many developing countries, particularly in Asia and Africa. He highlighted several steps taken by India to counter AMR. Kerala and Gujarat, he said, are the first states to ban over-the-counter sales of antibiotics. Some antimicrobials and pesticides have also been banned for use in crops. The India AMR Innovation Hub was established involving both national and international stakeholders to build a novel technology platform. It has helped in mobilising resources, bringing out innovation and enhancing collaboration between multiple stakeholders, he added. The development of NAP-AMR 2.0 began in 2022 through a series of stakeholder consultations involving the human health sector, research institutions, professional associations, civil society organisations, and the environment and animal husbandry sectors. This process was followed by high-level meetings at NITI Aayog with representatives from more than 20 ministries and departments. Each stakeholder ministry or department developed its own action plan with defined goals and timelines. The updated NAP-AMR includes specific action plans for each key stakeholder ministry or department, complete with timelines and budgets to allow effective monitoring of progress. It also establishes well-defined mechanisms for coordination and collaboration within and across sectors. Each stakeholder is expected to develop an implementation roadmap ensuring the engagement of the private sector, technical institutions, professional groups, industry, cooperatives, NGOs, international partners and other relevant organisations, the ministry said.
ECI working on 'sinister design' to 'destroy' democracy, Opposition parties through SIR: Congress
The SIR is underway in Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Puducherry, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep
Telanganas Gussadi Dance to be Showcased at Film Festival in Goa
Gondu tribal artists from Telangana will perform the traditional Gussadi dance at the inaugural ceremony on November 20
EC working on 'sinister design' to 'destroy' democracy, Opposition parties through SIR: Congress
NEW DELHI: The Congress on Tuesday accused the Election Commission of working on a sinister design to destroy democracy and opposition parties through the SIR exercise, and vowed to take to the streets by holding a protest rally at Ramleela Maidan here in the first week of December. Upping the ante over its 'vote chori' pitch, the Congress said the poll body's conduct during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process has been deeply disappointing as the exercise is aimed at deleting targeted votes and demanded that it must immediately demonstrate that it is not operating under the BJP's shadow. AICC general secretary, organisation, K C Venugopal told reporters after the meeting that the Election Commission's motive is to destroy democracy and opposition parties, which has never happened in history. We are going to the streets. During the first week of December, the Congress party is organising a massive rally in Ramleela Maidan with lakhs of people attending it, he told reporters, adding that the Congress will expose the Election Commission by organising the protest event. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, who chaired a meeting with key office-bearers from 12 states and Union Territories (UTs) where the SIR is underway, alleged that the BJP is attempting to weaponise the exercise of the electoral rolls process for vote chori. Kharge, former party chief Rahul Gandhi and AICC general secretaries participated in a review meeting with state unit chiefs, Congress Legislature Party leaders and secretaries of 12 states and UTs where the SIR is underway. The states and UTs are Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Puducherry, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep. Among these, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala and West Bengal will go to the polls in 2026. Phase-II of the SIR exercise began on November 4 with the enumeration stage and will continue till December 4. The Congress party is unequivocally committed to safeguarding the integrity of the electoral rolls, Kharge said on X after he chaired the meeting. We held a comprehensive strategy review with AICC General Secretaries, AICC In-Charges, PCCs, CLPs, and AICC Secretaries from the states/UTs where the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process is underway. The Congress Party is unequivocally committed to safeguarding the pic.twitter.com/cVcjyaJGEo Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) November 18, 2025 At a time when public confidence in democratic institutions is already strained, the Election Commission's conduct during the SIR process has been deeply disappointing, he said. It must immediately demonstrate that it is not operating under the BJP's shadow and it remembers its Constitutional oath and allegiance to the people of India, not to any ruling party, Kharge said. We firmly believe that the BJP is attempting to weaponise the SIR process for vote chori. And if the EC chooses to look the other way, that failure is not just administrative - it becomes a complicity of silence, the Congress chief said. Our workers, BLOs, and District/City/Block Presidents will therefore remain relentlessly vigilant. We will expose every attempt, however subtle, to delete genuine voters or insert bogus ones, Kharge said. The Congress will not allow democratic safeguards to be eroded by partisan misuse of institutions, he asserted. Venugopal said while purification of electoral rolls is an undeniably necessary objective, it must be carried out in a bona fide manner. The ECI's conduct thus far has been to further the BJP's 'vote chori' agenda, setting aside its Constitutional obligation of impartiality. We will relentlessly fight against their attempts to manipulate voter rolls through unfair deletions or the insertion of bogus voters to create space for the BJP to carry out its nefarious activities, he said on X. It is our democracy at stake, and we will stand up to every attempt - big or small - that threatens our Constitutional framework, Venugopal asserted. After the meeting, he said that the general feeling of the Pradesh Congress Committees was that the Election Commission was purposefully trying to delete votes of some sections of the society. The design of the SIR itself is to delete targeted votes. This is what we experienced in Bihar also and now they are going to start it in 12 states, he said, adding that they announced on Monday a different 'Special Revision' for Assam. This is a sinister attempt by the Election Commission to destroy democracy in this country. It is completely unethical and completely undemocratic, he alleged. Noting that the revision of the voter list normally takes place during elections for a longer time, but it is now done within one month. Due to this, several suicides by BLOs are taking place because of pressure, he claimed, adding that they are being pressured by EC officials to complete this exercise within one month. In Kerala, he said, the BLOs have been asked to submit the final list of the SIR on December 9, the day the first phase of local body elections will be held. He said even though the Kerala Assembly passed a resolution for postponing the SIR exercise, the state's chief electoral officer asked the EC to defer the exercise, saying this is not the right time to conduct it, and all political parties except the BJP made the same demand, but the EC is not listening. It is very clear that they are working only on behalf of the BJP and (Prime Minister) Narendra Modi. It is quite surprising, he claimed. Congress leader Pawan Khera also said the party's rally at Ramleela Maidan against the SIR exercise will expose the 'mal-intention' and politicisation of the EC. The SIR is to delete names and not add new names of voters, he asserted.
Zydus, SIG launch liquid cough and cold medication in single-serve spouted pouches
NEW DELHI, Nov 18: Zydus Lifesciences on Tuesday said it has inked a pact with leading packaging solutions provider SIG to introduce liquid cough and cold medication in single-serve spouted pouches. The packaging helps in delivering precise doses of the medicine, improved hygiene, and reduced product waste. Our goal at Zydus is to make effective medication more accessible and consumer-friendly. Continuing with our patient-centric approaches, we are introducing Deriphyllin CoughGo in single-serve spouted pouches utilizing SIGs advanced filling technology, [] The post Zydus, SIG launch liquid cough and cold medication in single-serve spouted pouches appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
DroneNova India to Launch Nation's First Drone Soccer League at ESFE 2025
Education Supply & Franchise Expo (ESFE) 2025, where DroneNova is the official sponsor. Meet and learn from The best Education Brain ESFE 2025 , scheduled from December 11 to 13, 2025, at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai, is set to bring together the most influential leaders, educators, and policy influencers shaping the future of Indian education. The event will feature eminent figures including Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani as Guest of Honour, alongside distinguished speakers such as Sonal Pinto, Director, Ryan Group of Schools; Lina Ashar, Founder, Dreamtime Learning; and Syed Sultan Ahmed, Chairperson, TAISI. The three-day expo aims to offer transformative solutions for India’s rapidly evolving education ecosystem. At the heart of DroneNova’s participation lies its groundbreaking Drone Soccer League (DSL), a first-of-its-kind initiative that transforms classrooms into live arenas of innovation. Through this program, students will pilot safe, sub-250g drones inside a net-caged field, learning physics, coding, teamwork, and strategy in an engaging and competitive environment. “ Our vision is to make India a global hub for drone-based experiential education that inspires curiosity, collaboration, and creativity in every learner ,” said Himansshu Jainn, Founder, DroneNova India . “ Every flight is a science lesson; every goal is a leadership moment. With Drone Soccer, students don’t just learn concepts, they live them .” The program aligns with the priorities of NEP 2020 on experiential learning and 21st-century skill-building, complements Skill India pathways, and adheres to India’s evolving Drone Policy framework. Designed as a turnkey offering, it provides schools with equipment, safety infrastructure, certified trainers, and curriculum-linked modules aligned with NEP, IB MYP, and IGCSE standards, ensuring both academic depth and operational ease. To catalyze a nationwide movement, DroneNova is inviting ten visionary institutions to join as “ Founding Partner Schools ”, who will receive exclusive benefits including priority workshop scheduling, lifetime partnership privileges, and guaranteed regional qualifier slots for the Drone Soccer League. By sponsoring ESFE 2025, DroneNova India aims to showcase how drones, STEM, and sport can converge to redefine classroom learning and inspire a new generation of innovators. info@dronenovaindia.in
Want to build wealth? CA reveals a simple saving formula for stress-free finances
CA Nitin Kaushik advocates for goal-based saving, emphasizing that financial peace stems from assigning purpose to every rupee. He outlines three funds: the Peace Fund for emergencies, the Living Fund for short-term joys, and the Freedom Fund for long-term wealth. This structured approach reduces financial anxiety and fosters a calmer relationship with money.
Personal loan tenure: How it impacts EMI, interest costs and borrowing decisions
A personal loan tenure outlines the repayment period and influences EMIs and total interest. Understanding the tenure helps borrowers choose suitable terms based on budget, credit profile, financial goals and repayment flexibility.
Mutual Funds: Why stepping up your SIPs is crucial for achieving your financial goals
Mutual funds: One of the fastest ways to meet financial goals is to gradually increase the SIP amount every year or every fixed interval say every two years or so.
The Circle.Work expands its pan-India network, launches in Goa
A membership at The Circle.Work provides access to all locations across India, connecting members to a broad community of professionals, founders, and enterprises. Alongside this nationwide network, the platform offers a curated calendar of programs and events designed to enable collaboration and meaningful connections
Epic VF 7 Road Trip Shows Indian Drivers What EV Future Could Look Like
A Vietnamese creator’s epic crossing from Asia toward Africa is giving India an early glimpse of how the VinFast VF 7 could change ordinary road travel by demonstrating how a straightforward electric car can carry itself across long distances with steady ease. India has only recently welcomed the VF 7, but local reviews already show favorable feedback Early one October morning in Hanoi, automotive YouTuber Nguyen Thanh Hai, known to his followers as Hai Kar, packed his VinFast VF 7 and began an extraordinary journey. His plan is to drive from Vietnam to Africa, passing through thirty countries across Asia and Europe before reaching Morocco. The trip, expected to take several months, covers about fifty thousand kilometers. It is one of the first attempts by a Vietnamese driver to cross continents in a made in Vietnam electric car. A car built for adaptation Hai’s VF 7 is a standard production vehicle. Before setting off, he fitted a roof rack, rally tires and a tow cable, then added a few essentials such as charging adapters, a small generator and translation tools for unfamiliar regions. His car can travel more than four hundred kilometers on a full charge and has enough power to manage highways and mountain roads. A few weeks into the journey, he is now somewhere in China, heading west. The VF 7 already attracts attention at home in Vietnam among long distance drivers. Owners who have traveled from Hanoi to Ca Mau praise its solid handling, smooth ride and consistent performance across varied terrain. Fast charging from near empty to seventy percent takes about half an hour, which turns long trips into a sequence of short breaks rather than slow, painful stops. What makes Hai’s trip remarkable is how ordinary the car is. It was designed for daily life such as commuting, errands and short weekends, yet it is handling a route that stretches from Asia to Africa. India’s early look at the VF 7 India has only recently welcomed the VF 7, but local reviews already show favorable feedback. One buyer in Lucknow, who is 6’4, cancelled his booking with another brand after realising the VF 7 simply felt better inside (1) . Plus, both the vehicle and battery warranty is generous at 10 years or 2 lakh kilometres. He took delivery in Jaipur and drove the car home to Lucknow, and during that stretch he found the VF 7 steady at speed and easy to place when overtaking, while city crawling felt calm and predictable. "I am satisfied with the car", he said after crossing the one thousand kilometre mark, addng that he gave it " 9.5 out of 10 ." The VF7 arrives just as India’s charging network begins to expand for a larger EV audience. VinFast is preparing its own ecosystem alongside this, supported by partners in each key area, such as myTVS (authorised service centres), Global Assure (roadside assistance), and banks like SBI (financing for both customers and dealers). Together these pieces form a full EV ecosystem that covers finance, home and public charging, service coverage, and the other tools needed for day to day use. What this means for Indian drivers Once more chargers appear along the major national highways, long distance EV journeys will be much easier. A normal India trip such as Bengaluru to Goa or Delhi to Nainital could eventually feel as simple as Hai Kar recharging his VF 7 on his road to Africa. Drivers will stop for chai or lunch while the car picks up enough range to continue. Hai’s journey continues to unfold across continents. Each update he posts is another tiny demonstration of how electric travel keeps expanding its reach. And for Indian drivers watching Hai Kar’s trip from afar, it hints at a future where a quiet, clean road trip from one state to another becomes an ordinary weekend plan rather than a brave experiment. About VinFast VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam's largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast's product lineup includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. The company is rapidly expanding its global distribution network and manufacturing capabilities with facilities in Vietnam, India, and planned operations in the United States. The company's Thoothukudi facility in Tamil Nadu represents a $500 million investment and will produce 150,000 vehicles annually when fully operational, creating approximately 3,500 direct jobs. vinfastauto.in . www.youtube.com/watch?v=_IWEgZqXzOE
This budgeting app has half off annual subscriptions for Black Friday
Those looking for a better way to keep track of their finances should consider a budgeting app . There are dozens of them on the market now, and one of our favorites is running a discount for new subscribers. Monarch Money is offering 50 percent off annual plans right now when you use the code MONARCHVIP at checkout. With the typical yearly price being $100, this will save you $50. As mentioned before, the discount is only for new users and it can't be combined with other offers. The code only works when you sign up through the web as well. You can't redeem it through the Monarch mobile app. We feel that Monarch has a steeper learning curve than some other budget trackers and that certain aspects of the app are slightly more complex than they probably need to be. But it offers a great deal of customization and granularity , which outweighs our misgivings. On the main dashboard, you'll see your net worth along with your latest transactions, spending versus the previous month, your income so far for the month and details about upcoming bills, your investments and goals you've set. There's also a link to a month-in-review page, which offers an in-depth overview of what's been happening with your money that month. You'll also be able to take a peek at how your net worth has changed over time. Monarch can connect to your bank and track Apple Card, Apple Cash and Savings accounts. It can pull in your transactions and balance history automatically and detect your recurring expenses and income. The app can even keep your car valuation up to date. While it might take a little work to set up Monarch (and you might have to tweak things here and there), it's a detailed budgeting app that can help you keep better track of your income, expenditure and net worth. If you're a former Mint user (RIP), Monarch Money is a great alternative if you haven't yet found a Mint replacement . But it's worth mentioning that our favorite Mint replacement service, Quicken Simplifi , also has a sale going on right now. It's offering 50 percent off when you sign up for an annual subscription, billed at $3 per month with the discount. That comes out to $36 for the first year. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/this-budgeting-app-has-half-off-annual-subscriptions-for-black-friday-174011264.html?src=rss
Keralas growing artsy socks business
In Thiruvananthapuram, far from the usual global fashion circuits, a small group of friends are experimenting with socks. The project started three years ago. They never imagined how far the idea would eventually take them. Now, the project has turned into Haspo a brand that exclusively designs socks. Hapso didnt begin as a business idea at all. It grew out of an art community called Happyccino, formed five to six years ago by engineers, designers, photographers, and self-taught artists who simply wanted a space where creativity felt accessible. They gathered over coffee, small workshops, and started experimenting with wall and pebble arts. We were constantly thinking about how to bring our designs into a real, but unique, product. We tossed around a lot of ideas, but nothing felt like us. Around that time, I saw a friend receive a pair of bright, funky socks as part of a Google Local Guide reward. It caught my attention. We had never seen socks with that kind of design language here, says Vijith V S, co-founder of Hapso. So Vijith started digging deeper. Thats when I realised there was an actual business opportunity. Big brands like Nike, Adidas, and Jockey all make socks, but theres barely any innovation. The designs look exactly the same. When I brought this up with the group, the idea clicked. That conversation eventually became Hapso. Vijith, along with other co-founders Anees S S and Ananthu S B, began researching textile technology, knitting constraints, the challenges of manufacturing, etc. They discovered that India had only a handful of homegrown designer sock brands, and almost none operating in south India. Minimum order quantities were intimidating. Getting the right materials and reliable manufacturing partners took time. Still, the idea felt aligned with the collectives creative instincts, so they kept going. And two more joined the core team, Amal Dev and Nanda Gopan. Before we committed to production, we designed around forty concepts and sent the mock-ups to friends across different age groups. They ranked them by preference, and the top seven or eight became our first collection. The response was way beyond what we imagined. At a small stall at the Olam festival, we sold 500 pairs in just three days, he says. Nanda Gopan, Amal Dev, Ananthu S B, Anees S S, Vijith V S Hapsos early collections leaned into this playful spirit, with cotton socks featuring fun and expressive visuals. As they grew, the team pushed deeper into material innovation. They began working with bamboo fibre, drawn to its antimicrobial properties, comfort, and durability. This led to designs suited for athletic use, expanding their customer base to those looking for performance-oriented options. What surprised the team was that people never bought just one or two pairs. Many bought sets of four or five, mixing designs the way people collect small artworks. As Hapso expanded its catalogue from an initial eight designs to around fifty today, orders also started coming from outside India. Right now, we are already present across major e-commerce platforms. We are even exploring something that is still unusual in India a first-of-its-kind all-socks store. Its a long-term goal, but we hope to introduce the concept soon through retail showrooms in cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi, the founders say.
FIDE World Cup 2025 boosts Goa's push for sports-driven tourism: Officials
Tourism continues to contribute about 16.43% to the States GDP and provides 40 to 45% of direct and indirect employment
Taking Goan flavours into the future
KALYANI JHA |NT BUZZ Food has always been an integral part of the Pimenta clan. Indeed, over the years Shevaughn Pimenta learned about the hospitality and food and beverage business through her father Dwayne Pimenta. But she chose writing and advertising as her career path at first. All this changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. When []
Eliminating cervical cancer: goal, strategies and action taken
Cervical cancer remains one of the strongest indicators of health inequity. Close to 90% of global cervical cancer deaths occur in low and middle-income countries, where access to vaccination, screening, and treatment is limited
Germany and Netherlands storm into 2026 FIFA World Cup with goal-fests
With electrifying performances, Germany and the Netherlands have clinched their World Cup berths. Germany showcased sheer dominance, obliterating Slovakia 6-0, while the Netherlands made a statement with a resounding 4-0 victory over Lithuania. Their offensive firepower has set the stage for an exhilarating global tournament.
The making of Indias 91st Grandmaster
While Indians in the chess scene are taking strides in the ongoing FIDE chess World Cup in Goa, Raahul VS of Chennai achieved a feat that he had been trying for years a Grandmaster title in the ASEAN Championship in the Philippines with a round to spare. As a result, he became Indias 91st Grandmaster. To become a Grandmaster is no mean feat. One needs three GM norms, a FIDE rating of 2500, and to play a plethora of tournaments. However, there are select international tournaments recognised by FIDE that would award the GM title, if won. That way, Raahul was crowned the GM in this event. The 21-year-old has been playing the game of 64 squares since the age of six. I think in the past five years, I would mostly be working on an average of 5-6 hours per day in chess. Recently, I have also allocated separate time for my mental health and training, which has been very helpful in the past year. All this has borne fruit with the title, he said. Raahul began playing at a class near his home, which taught many children. What started as an enjoyable hobby soon became serious. He then developed his game in a systematic manner and hasd been training for the past three months under GM Shyam Sundar at Thulir Academy. Having played several tournaments, Raahul believes that the win to bag the coveted GM title was his best show to date. There was no particular tournament (that made me play chess seriously); I enjoyed the game, and after seeing good results in state-level events, I was motivated to keep working on the game, he said. Talking about his performance in the Philippines, he shared, I had a 2700+ rating performance when I entered the last round. I think apart from two games in the event where I missed my chances, I managed to capitalise on my chances in the rest of the games. Raahul is comfortable playing on the board and does not prefer online chess. Yet, his best performance in front of the screen came in 2021, when he clinched the National Juniors Championship. I became the champion and got selected to the Asian juniors in Sri Lanka, where I became the champion, he said. Like many budding chess players, Raahul uses the chess engine to improve the quality of his game. In the current chess world, after a certain level, its really hard if we dont use the chess engines for home preparations, he reflected. And this is where Shyam Sundar steps in. He guides Raahul on how to improve his game. In the board events, Raahul has clinched the U20 Asian junior chess championship in 2021. Rewind further down the line, in 2018, he was part of the gold medal-winning team at the Asian Youth Games, winning the U16 blitz format tournament. His goal next year is to close in on the rating to 2600 and establish himself as a strong GM. Raahul believes that chess academies play a big role in a players career, and the ones he trained under over the years have shaped him into a good player. My academy has created a good environment for me to grow, and the friends with who I train are all strong players. They inspire me to work even harder. Every time I go to the academy, I not only learn my strengths but also what I lack in comparison to the others, which helps me figure out the areas in the game I should improve. All my coaches, Sunitha, Jagadeesan from the Kasparov Chess Foundation (KCF), GM RB Ramesh, GM Vishnu Prasanna, GM Swayams Mishra, and now GM Shyam Sundar have played a role in making the player what I am today, he signed off.
Climate change real, India to declare NDC by Dec: Environment Minister Yadav at UN COP30
India will submit its updated climate targets by December. Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav urged developed nations to achieve net-zero goals sooner. He highlighted India's commitment to climate action, including its Net Zero by 2070 target. The country is also releasing its first Biennial Transparency Report. These steps underscore India's dedication to global climate efforts and sustainable development.
Scorpio Daily Horoscope for November 18, 2025
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
Fitness expert reveals this one thing to do before the year ends
Regular exercise is a known way to keep weight from going up. Set a goal to finish twenty workouts in the next few 6 weeks, that works out to a little more than three times each week, something that fits most schedules. Not only that, the exercise does not have to be intense each time. Even brisk walking, yoga or simple home exercises count
Now, March 2026 deadline fordelayed electronic city project
Shoma Patnaik Panaji Goas delayed electronic city project at Tuem has now got March 2026 as the new date for completion, with the state government starting to push companies having plots to commence production in the next three months. Units with allotted plots have been told to start functioning soon or else return the plots, []
Traffic restrictions announced aheadof IFFI opening parade for today, Nov 20
NT Reporter Panaji The opening ceremony of the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) will be held on November 20, with the festival continuing till November 28. In view of rehearsals and the float parade, the Goa Traffic Police has announced a series of road closuresand diversions. On November 18, during the IFFI parade []
Goas 31st iron ore e-auction nets Rs 136 cr, surpasses target
NT Reporter Panaji The states 31st e-auction of iron ore, from which the government expected to earn Rs 100 crore, has netted Rs 136 crore, according to the Directorate of Mines and Geology (DMG). The amount includes Rs 17.8 crore by way of royalty, an official said. A total of 7.5 lakh tonnes of ore, []
Cops fit reflective collars on 1k-plus stray cattle to curb night accidents
NT Reporter Panaji In the past few months, the Goa traffic police have fitted reflective collar belts on more than 1,000 stray cattle across the state, a proactive safety measure aimed at reducing night-time road accidents reportedly caused by cattle on the roads. The initiative was undertaken by the Traffic Police Headquarters, Panaji, through traffic []
HC issues notice on PIL seeking state-wide survey of senior citizens
NT Reporter Panaji The High Court of Bombay at Goa on Monday issued notices to the state government and the respondent authority in a PIL filed by Adv Moses Pinto seeking a comprehensive state-wide socio-economic and health survey of senior citizens. The matter will next be heard on January 4, 2026. The petition seeks directions []
PILs over regularisation of houses: HC notice to govt
NT Reporter Panaji The High Court of Bombay at Goa on Monday issued a notice to the state government on a PIL filed by Diksha Vaigankar of Sankhali challenging Section 38A of the Goa Land Revenue Code. The matter will be heard further in February. Section 38A, enacted in 2025, provides a mechanism to regularise []
Stellantis sets Rs 10,000 crore India component export goal for 2026
Stellantis aims for a significant boost in component exports from India. The automotive giant plans to reach 10,000 crore in exports through its suppliers by 2026. Currently, Indian suppliers contribute 4,000 crore annually. Stellantis has invested heavily in India and operates manufacturing plants in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
In FY26, NHAI has invited bids for 52 highway projects so far
The National Highways Authority of India has invited bids for 52 highway projects, totaling 2,188 km and valued at 1.15 lakh crore. This initiative aims to accelerate progress towards the ministry's 2025-26 targets for awarding and constructing national highways. Despite a slower start, the ministry anticipates achieving its annual construction goals.
Rural road scheme: States push for wider coverage
States are setting their sights high, looking to link nearly 50,000 rural communities under the revamped road scheme, significantly surpassing the initial goal. This ambitious endeavor may require a longer implementation timeline or the introduction of an additional phase post-2028-29 to ensure that all remote regions gain access to reliable all-weather roads.
Mulugu Launches Milk Scheme for Anganwadi Kids
Seethakka said the initiative aims to build a Malnutrition-Free Telangana, noting that the governments primary goal is to ensure the health and well-being of underprivileged children
DeepMind releases a new weather forecasting model for more accurate predictions
Google's DeepMind just released WeatherNext 2 , a new version of its AI weather prediction model. The company promises that it delivers more efficient, more accurate and higher-resolution global weather predictions. To that end, it should be able to provide accurate forecasts up to two weeks out, including information on temperature, pressure and wind. It should also be able to better predict tropical storm tracks, according to researchers. This means that predictions of a hurricane's path should be accurate up to three days out. The previous model only predicted things up to two days ahead of the storm. The model also brings hourly forecasts into the mix. All told, Google says this new model is eight times faster than the previous iteration. This should help businesses like energy traders make more precise decisions, according to a report by Bloomberg . It gives you a more granular forecast, DeepMind AI researcher Akib Uddin said. Many other industries are quite interested in these one-hour steps. It helps them make more precise decisions. Their goal is, how can they make their business more resilient to weather? Google The improvements here stem from a new approach to weather models, as explained in this recently-published research paper . Older methods demanded the use of machine learning models that were built for image and video generation. This required repeated processing to ensure an accurate result. The new model only requires a single processing step, which also reduces reliance on costly AI computing systems. AI may not be great at everything , despite what proponents want you to believe, but it is great at predicting the weather . Newer models typically outperform traditional prediction methods , even those that rely on supercomputers. These models aren't perfect, however, as even Google has acknowledged that WeatherNext 2 will likely struggle to predict outlier rain and snow events. This is due to gaps in the training data. Its one limitation of our forecast, but one that we are working on improving, DeepMind research scientist Ferran Alet told Bloomberg . AI weather prediction is becoming a crowded field. Companies like NVIDIA , Microsoft, AccuWeather and Huawei are all throwing their hats in the ring in one way or another. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/deepmind-releases-a-new-weather-forecasting-model-for-more-accurate-predictions-175451228.html?src=rss
Haaland double sends Norway to first World Cup since 1998
Norway secured their first World Cup berth since 1998 with a dominant 4-1 victory over Italy. Erling Haaland netted twice, capping a flawless qualifying campaign where Norway finished with a perfect record. The win confirmed their automatic spot, while Italy faces play-offs after a disappointing performance. Haaland scored both of his goals within seconds.
Black Friday has become the time to buy the hottest tech of the year. Whether you're shopping for yourself or stocking up on gifts for the holidays, Black Friday deals next week are sure to bring the best prices of the year to things like headphones, game consoles, robot vacuums, phone accessories and everything in between. You don't even have to wait until Black Friday proper to save a ton of money. Over the past few years, we've seen Black Friday tech deals start earlier and earlier to the point where the entire month of November is packed with discounts. If you're on the hunt for solid tech deals, Engadget has you covered. We've collected the best Black Friday deals on tech you can get right now, and we'll continue to update this post as we get closer to the big day at the end of November. Note that you probably have the best chance of snagging record-low prices when we get to about one week before Thanksgiving, but these deals available now are worth considering. Table of contents Black Friday deals: Engadget's top picks Black Friday deals under $50 Black Friday Apple deals Black Friday smart home and kitchen deals More Black Friday tech deals Black Friday deals: Engadget's top picks Apple AirPods 4 for $85 (34 percent off): These are the most affordable AirPods you can get, and the latest model has been substantially improved over the previous. They have a better fit and noticeably better sound quality than their predecessor, plus some advanced features previously only found on pricer models. Apple AirTags (four pack) for $65 (34 percent off): iPhone users who frequently misplace things should invest in a few AirTags. Slip them into your wallet, bag, jacket and other belongings to keep track of their locations in the Find My app. Just make sure that, if you're going to attach one to your keys, you also pick up an AirTag holder to go along with it. LEGO Star Wars Millennium Falcon A New Hope 25th Anniversary Collectable 75375 for $68 (20 percent off): This is a set that any Star Wars fan will love to build and then love to display once it's complete. The 921-piece set features a fully-detailed Millennium Falcone, buildable stand and nameplate. It's one of many Lego Black Friday deals you can get right now. Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones for $248 ($158 off): While the new XM6 headphones have replaced these as Sony's flagship cans, that doesn't mean the XM5 aren't worth buying. They were our top pick for the best wireless headphones for years before the XM6 came around, and they still have excellent ANC, great sound quality, long battery life, a comfortable fit and handy extra features like multipoint connectivity. Bose QuietComfort headphones for $170 (51 percent off): These noise-cancelling headphones have a comfortable (albeit a bit boring) design, an Aware mode that lets you hear more of your surroundings when you need to and up to 24 hours of battery life. Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle for $499: Black Friday Nintendo sales were announced recently and, unsurprisingly, there won't be many true deals out there this year. There are no straight discounts on the Switch 2 console, so your best bet is to pick up a bundle that saves you some cash on a Switch 2 game. One of the best is the Mario Kart Wold bundle, but Pokmon fans should consider the Pokmon Legends: Z-A bundle , too. Black Friday deals under $50 Blink Mini 2 (2 pack) for $28 (60 percent off): if you want to keep an eye on your home when you're away, it'll be hard to find a security camera as convenient and as affordable as a Blink Mini 2. Yes, the company just came out the with 2K+ version , but that will be overkill for most people. The Blink Mini 2 gets the job done by recording 1080p video, sending you motion alerts and supporting two-way talk in case you want to chat with your pets while you're out. Note that these are wired cameras, so they're more conveniently used indoors unless you pick up the necessary weather-resistant adapter for outdoor use. Philips fabric shaver for $13 (32 percent off): Consider this the Black Friday tech deal you didn't know you needed. If you have shirts, sweaters, pants, even blankets that have pilled over time, this handy little fabric shaver can get them looking more like new again. I bought this on a whim after wishing I could refresh some of my most-loved wardrobe staples without spending hours pulling pills off myself. Philips' fabric shaver has delivered and then some, and my clothes look much fresher than before. Jisulife Life 7 handheld fan for $25 (14 percent off): This handy little fan is a must-have if you life in a warm climate or have a tropical vacation planned anytime soon. It can be used as a table or handheld fan and even be worn around the neck so you don't have to hold it at all. Its 5,000 mAh battery allows it to last hours on a single charge, and the small display in the middle of the fan's blades show its remaining battery level. Leebin 2025 electric spin scrubber for $40 (43 percent off, Prime exclusive): This weird little scrubber makes cleaning my bathroom and shower much less of a pain. Just choose the brush head you need for your job and the rotating head takes care of most of the hard work. I love the adjustable handle, which extends from 12 to 50 inches so you can get into hard-to-reach places without breaking a sweat. Ring Video Doorbell for $50 (50 percent off): This is the most affordable Ring doorbell and it includes a battery that's rechargeable via USB-C. Once installed, it will send you alerts when motion is detected near your door, and you can use the Live View and two-way talk features to interact with visitors without opening your door. Monarch Money budgeting app (one year) for $50 (50 percent off with code MONARCHVIP): One of our favorite budgeting apps , Monarch Money gives you a lot of control over the organization of your funds. There's a helpful goals feature for when you're planning out big purchases or financial milestones you want to hit, and we found the month-in-review recap it provides to be more thorough than other budgeting apps we tried. There's even Zillow integration for folks looking to buy a home. Black Friday Apple deals Apple MacBook Air (13-inch, M4) for $749 ($250 off): Our top pick for the best laptop you can get, the M4 MacBook Air will be plenty of power for most people in a convenient, premium package. It's thin and light as ever, with an excellent keyboard and trackpad, plus enough battery life to get you through a whole day of work, video calls and more. Apple Watch SE 3 for $200 ($50 off): The SE has been our top pick for the best Apple Watch for those on a budget, and the latest model only solidifies that further. It has the same chipset found in the latest flagship Apple Watches, fast-charging capabilities, an always-on display and most of the same activity-tracking features you'll find in more expensive model. Apple Mac Mini M4 for $499 ($100 off): Desktop users looking for an upgrade should consider the latest Mac Mini, which runs on the M4 chip and 16GB of RAM as standard in the base configuration. This version has a smaller design that takes up less space, front-facing USB-C ports and a headphone jack, plus Thunderbolt 5 support. Black Friday smart home and kitchen deals iRobot Roomba 104 Vac Robot Vacuum for $150 (40 percent off): This is an updated version of our favorite budget robot vacuum and it will make an excellent choice for anyone who has never used one of these devices before, or a gift for a new homeowner. Not only is the iRobot mobile app super easy to use, but this machine has strong suction power and good battery life, plus it will automatically return to its docking station when it needs a power-up. Ninja Dual-Zone air fryer (10-quart) for $180 (22 percent off): If you cook for large crowds on Thanksgiving and other occasions, this is the air fryer to get. Not only is it a large, 10-quart capacity model, but it also has two separate cooking areas. You can crisp up potatoes on one side and brussel sprouts on the other with no issues. Use the Smart Finish feature to cook two separate foods in different ways and have them both be done at the same time, or Match Cook to copy the cooking method in both chambers. Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro for $300 ($100 off): One of the most versatile air fryers out there, this Breville machine not only air fries, but also bakes, roasts, toasts, dehydrates, reheats and more. It also has a large capacity that can cook a 14-pound turkey or a tray of muffins with ease. Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum for $400 ($600 off): This is one of the best robot vacuums you can get, period. It doesn't have a self-emptying base, but its superior suction power almost makes up for that. It's one of the strongest robot vacuums I've ever tested, and it has excellent obstacle avoidance. The latter means you will rarely, if ever, have to attend to it getting caught on the edge of a carpet or getting stuck under a piece of furniture. If a cordless stick vacuum is what you're looking for, don't forget to check out all of the other Dyson Black Friday deals . Samsung 65-inch Frame Pro smart TV for $1,598 (24 percent off): The latest version of Samsung's art TV, the Frame Pro lets you show artwork on the screen when you're not watching a sports game or binge-watching your favorite show. It supports 4K content, VRR gaming at up to 4K 144Hz and runs on Samsung's NQ4 AI Gen3 processor. Also available at Best Buy . EcoFlow Black Friday deals get up to 80 percent off: Portable power stations are an investment, but they can be crucial pieces of tech during emergencies. The top pick from our friends at Yahoo Tech has been heavily discounted in this early Black Friday sale. You can pick up the EcoFlow Delta Pro 3 for $1,400 off, down to $2,299, or the power station with an extra battery bundled in for $2,699 off, down to $3,599. More Black Friday tech deals Anker Laptop Power Bank (25K, 100W) for $92 (32 percent off): A top pick in our guide to the best power banks , this Anker brick is kind of a one-and-done device. It has enough capacity to charge all sorts of devices from smartphones to laptops to handheld gaming consoles, and it has two built-in USB-C cables so you don't even have to remember to bring your own to use it. Also available at Anker . SanDisk microSD Express card (256GB) for $60 (12 percent off): If you have a Switch 2, no regular microSD card will do if you want to expand the console's storage. You need a newer microSD Express card, and currently there are only a handful on the market. We did some testing to find the best microSD Express card for the Switch 2 and found that performance was, in general, very similar amongst all the readily available cards. We recommend getting whichever fits within your budget at the capacity you want. Meta Quest 3S VR headset for $250 ($50 off): We consider this to be the best VR headset for newbies or those on a budget. It's comfortable to wear for long sessions, has solid performance, comes with excellent controllers and you'll have access to a large app library with it. GoPro Hero 13 Black Extended Power Bundle for $349 ($150 off): This bundle gives you our favorite action cam plus three Enduro batteries, a dual battery charger, one adhesive mount, a 64GB SanDisk microSD card, two USB-C cables and more. It makes a great all-in-one gift for the budding videographer or aspiring influencer in your life, or a solid addition to your own camera kit. Also available at GoPro . Black Friday FAQs When is Black Friday 2025? Black Friday 2025 lands on November 28. Which stores have Black Friday deals? Many physical retail stores have Black Friday deals including Walmart, Target, Best Buy and others. Even more retailers have online Black Friday deals, including Amazon, GameStop, Costco and others. When do Black Friday sales start? Gone are the times when Black Friday sales were one-day-only affairs. Now, Black Friday deals are often available starting on Thanksgiving, or even earlier. Last year, we saw Black Friday deals online begin the week before Black Friday proper. When do Black Friday sales end? Black Friday and Cyber Monday have blended a lot over the past few years. Now, you can expect to see a good portion of Black Friday deals extend through the weekend and into Cyber Monday. It's not uncommon for Black Friday deals to expire at the end of Cyber Monday. Which retailers have the best Black Friday tech deals? The best Black Friday tech deals are typically available online at retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy and Target. It's also a good idea to check the store websites of the companies that make the products you want for example, if you're looking for a Sonos speaker, check the Sonos website on Black Friday. Most of the time, you'll find the best Black Friday tech deals are matched at multiple retailers. Does Apple have Black Friday sales? No, you will usually not find Black Friday sales at Apple stores or on Apple's website. However, you can find Black Friday deals on Apple devices elsewhere; we recommend checking Amazon, Best Buy and other big retailers for discounts on iPads, Apple Watches and more on Black Friday. Does Amazon have Black Friday sales? Yes, Amazon has Black Friday sales. The online retailer's site will look similar to Prime Day on Black Friday, with discounts on all sorts of items from household essentials to fashion to tech. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/we-found-the-best-black-friday-2025-deals-on-tech-from-amazon-apple-lego-ninja-and-more-ahead-of-the-big-sale-100052689.html?src=rss
'Special revision' of electoral rolls to commence in poll-bound Assam soon
GUWAHATI: The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday ordered Special Revision (SR) of electoral rolls in Assam which is expected to go to elections in March or April next year. The Commission has directed a Special Revision u/s 21 of the Representation of the Peoples Act 1950 with reference to 01.01.2026 as the qualifying date in the State of Assam, the Commission instructed Assams Chief Electoral Officer (CEO). The SR stands between the annual special summary revision and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, officials said. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who was away in London on Monday, posted on X, The Govt of Assam welcomes the Election Commission of Indias decision to undertake a Special Revision of the electoral roll with 01.01.2026 as the qualifying date. He was confident the exercise would help ensure clean, updated and accurate electoral rolls for all eligible citizens. Assam will extend full cooperation to the @ECISVEEP to complete the revision in a transparent and time-bound manner, he further wrote. The ECI said Electoral Registration Officer of each Assembly segment would be responsible for ensuring that no eligible citizen is left out while at the same time, no ineligible person is included in the electoral roll. Any person is entitled to be an elector and on application to be registered in the electoral roll for that constituency if that person is a citizen of India, not less than 18 years of age as on 01.02.2020, ordinary resident of the constituency, not disqualified under any law, and not of unsound mind, the ECI instructions to the Assam CEO read. The Commission had last month ordered the SIR for 12 states and Union Territories Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Puducherry, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep. Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala and West Bengal will go to elections in 2026. As Assam is also going to polls next year, its exclusions from the SIR raised questions. However, the ECI clarified that separate provisions of the Citizenship Act apply in Assam where the Supreme Court-monitored exercise to verify citizenship was about to be concluded.
Locked in & Counting down to 2025 goals
Useful online educational Resources/OCW/Courses
1.Khan Academy *khan-academy.appspot.com/images/khan-logo-vertical-transparent.png A free world-class education for anyone anywhere. Khan Academy is an organization on a mission. We're a not-for-profit with the goal of changing education for the better by providing a free world-class education for anyone anywhere. All of the site's resources are available to anyone. It doesn't matter if you are a student, teacher, home-schooler, principal, adult returning to... Click to expand... Read more
John Abraham's 'Oslo' to premiere at IFFI 2025
The documentary Oslo: A Tail of Promise, presented and produced by actor John Abraham, will have its world premiere at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.
A fitness plan shared by coach Raj Ganpath outlines a straightforward approach to avoid year-end weight gain. With six weeks left in the year, he encourages people to stay consistent with movement, make smarter food choices, monitor portions, and maintain awareness of their progress. His guidance focuses on simple, daily habits that help individuals finish 2025 on a stronger and more controlled note.
Cozy Up to Fall: Feel Good Flavors & Seasonal Comforts
Fall invites us to savor the cozy comforts of the season. Think soft sweaters, seasonal sips and little indulgent treats. It’s a time to lean into the feel-good moments that make autumn special. From comforting snacks to nourishing crunch, walnuts are the perfect companion to keep your energy steady and your spirits high all season long. We’ve curated ideas on how to bring comfort to your life this fall. California walnuts in a bowl Cultivate a Cozy Space As the season shifts, so can your surroundings. Creating a cozy, welcoming space at home doesn’t require a full makeover, just a few thoughtful touches can make a big impact. Soft throw blankets, warm lighting and fall-scented candles can instantly turn your space into a sanctuary. Even something as simple as a tidy corner with your favorite book and a mug of tea can help you feel grounded and recharged. trail mix — makes it easier to stay energized during slow, restful moments. It’s comfort and care in every bite. And whether you prefer the comfort of cozy blankets and warm drinks or the adventure of exploring autumn’s outdoor beauty, walnuts offer versatile and easy snacking options to suit every fall moment. A hand-crafted trail mix is great for anything from an outdoor excursion to a movie night at home. Plus, it’s so easy to put together, the kids can even do it! Serve it in a shareable bowl or pre-portioned in jars for a grab-and-go option. With popcorn, dried fruit, pretzels, granola, chocolate chips, and spiced walnuts, you’ve got all the flavors you could want in one serving. Swap granola and fruit for cucumbers, tomatoes, and spiced walnuts for a savory twist on an old favorite with this Greek salad parfait. Put it in a small container for an on-the-go snack, or make larger portions as a flavorful breakfast or lunch! The spiced walnuts add a welcome kick to the fresh ingredients, with chickpeas and olives rounding out this Mediterranean masterpiece. And whether you’re wrapping up the final days of summer or enjoying a cozy, fall night at home, nothing can beat a perfectly-paired summer cheese and charcuterie board to go with a netflix binge or game night. Experiment with different flavors and textures by sampling a variety of cheese and crackers with your spiced walnuts and spreads. Embrace Small, Seasonal Goals Fall is a natural time to reset, but that doesn’t mean you need to overhaul everything. Instead of setting big goals, try focusing on small, seasonal intentions that bring you joy. That might mean going for a morning walk to enjoy the changing leaves, setting aside 10 minutes a day to journal or making time to cook something comforting once a week. Walnuts make a great companion for these little rituals. They’re easy to grab on the go or to add to a quiet breakfast. They also support sustained energy, which can make sticking to your small goals feel just a little easier. Fall, Reimagined This season, take the pressure off and focus on what feels good, not what feels like a to-do list. Create little rituals that nourish you, carve out space for rest and creativity and let your meals reflect the warmth and beauty of the season. www.californiawalnuts.in .
IFFI 2025: Rajinikanth and N Balakrishna honoured for 50 years in cinema
Rajinikanth and Nandamuri Balakrishna will be honoured at the closing ceremony of IFFI 2025 for completing 50 years in cinema. Union Minister L. Murugan announced that the festival, held from November 2028 in Goa, will open with a grand float parade
Master Capital Services receives SEBIs in-principle approval for mutual fund sponsorship
Master Capital Services, a subsidiary of Master Trust, has received in-principle approval from SEBI to sponsor a mutual fund. This allows the company to proceed with forming an Asset Management Company and launching various equity, hybrid, and multi-asset schemes. The move aligns with India's growing mutual fund industry and Master Trust's goal of expanding access to managed investment products.
England Ready For FIFA World Cup 2026 After Perfect Campaign
The Three Lions, who took maximum points from their eight games, became the first European team to win every one of their World Cup qualifiers without conceding a single goal in a campaign lasting at least six matches
Kim Kardashian is pursuing her dream of becoming a lawyer. She recently failed her bar exam but remains determined to succeed. Kardashian dedicated four months to intense study, sacrificing work and personal time. Despite emotional and physical challenges, she is committed to her goal. Read on to know in details how she prepared for the exam.
Don Bosco Oratory Fatorda lift Fr Gervacio Pinto Memorial Cup
NT Reporter | Curchorem Don Bosco Oratory Fatorda clinched the Late Fr Gervacio Pinto Memorial Cup with a 43 win on penalties after a 11 draw against UB Ambaulim at Curchorem. The first half produced few clear chances, with both sides struggling to break through organised defences, and the teams went into the break goalless. []
Gomanchal Warriors, Vasco to clash for title
NT Reporter | Porvorim/ Chicalim Gomanchal Warriors and Vasco Warriors booked their spots in the final of the 3rd Goa Veterans Cricket Tournament after posting contrasting semifinal wins on Sunday. At the GCA ground in Porvorim, Gomanchal Warriors defended a modest 126 to secure a 23-run victory over Desserts N More Avengers. Ashish Yadavs fluent []
US President Donald Trump supports new sanctions targeting Russia. Countries trading with Moscow could face severe penalties. Iran may also be included. Senators are proposing even stronger measures, including tariffs on oil purchases. These actions aim to pressure nations supporting Russia's actions in Ukraine. The goal is to isolate Russia economically and end the conflict.
KSRTC woos passengers with hampers, coupons
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) is placing a strong emphasis on improving passenger experience to build loyalty and attract more customers. Following the introduction of air-conditioned waiting rooms at major depots, the corporation is now experimenting with a range of innovative products and services aimed at enhancing its premium offerings. We are committed to offering a world-class travel experience. Along with improving amenities for a more enjoyable journey, we are also focusing on staff training to ensure professionalism. Our goal is to address any shortcomings that may discourage people from choosing public transport, an official stated. In collaboration with a private company, KSRTC has started offering millet snacks to passengers on buses passing through Thiruvalla. This initiative will run for two months on the newly introduced Tricolour long-distance buses. The gift hampers for children, introduced on November 14 in celebration of Childrens Day, include chocolates, colouring books, crayons, balloons, and facial tissues. Sponsored by a private firm, the hampers will be distributed on a trial basis for the first six months. While the trial period is ongoing, KSRTC has no plans to discontinue the scheme. Additionally, efforts are under way to introduce health coupons, which will provide discounts on diagnostic and treatment costs at hospitals partnering with KSRTC, said the official.
In a patriarchal political order, women remain an afterthought in Kerala
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The 50% reservation in local bodies in the statewhich came into force in 2009gave voice to a wider section of women in society, enabling them to break their silence in politics. But, how far has this representation translated into true political emancipation? Ministers R Bindu and Veena George, Thiruvananthapuram mayor Arya Rajendran, former minister K K Shailaja, and leaders like Nabeesa Ummal, M Kamalam, M T Padma, Maleth Saraladevi, Rachel Mathai, Padmaja Venugopal and Sobha Surendran are among the women actively involved in Keralas political arena. Yet, compared to their male counterparts, the presence of women in positions of real power remains limited. Between 1951 and 2024, only 173 women have contested Lok Sabha elections, with just 10 tasting success. This includes Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, the only woman MP from Kerala in 2024, who made it through the by-election to Wayanad, which her brother Rahul Gandhi vacated. Barring 1996 and 2021, fewer than 10 women have made it to the assembly in the 64-year period from 1957 to 2021. Political commentator J Prabhash said this is alarmingly poor for a state that reserves half of its local-body seats for women. Where there is power, women are absent because they are denied access to it. Parties must have internal democracy to ensure womens participation. Unless reservation is introduced in higher tiers, the patriarchal nature of politics will continue, Prabhash said. Former minister P K Sreemathi Patriarchy is so entrenched that women in power often have to display typical male traits to be accepted, he added. Speaking to TNIE in 2015, at the end of her tenure as Thiruvananthapuram mayor, K Chandrika said the 53 women in her council took more effort in executing policy, which they viewed as hitting closer to home. She said if such a council could win several laurels for the corporation, more women should come forward. Ten years on, she still holds the view. There are many women who perform better than men, but they do not always get equal opportunities, even when they prove their ability. Men never give up power, Chandrika said. In a state with more women voters, it is a drawback that women do not have a bigger political role, former minister P K Sreemathi said. We have seen change, especially within the LDF, but without reservation in the assembly and Parliament, it will be difficult for women to rise, she said. For Congress leader Bindu Krishna, who has been involved in several battles over allocation of seats, little has changed since 1987. I remember Leela Damodara Menon strongly speaking for womens reservation in 1987, on a stage filled with veteran leaders. Those who spoke after her assured their support. I believed this was a sign of change. But the reality is that we are still fighting for it in 2025, she said. J Chandra, the first woman Thiruvananthapuram mayor, said party membership itself is male-dominated and that women are fielded according to convenience. Having entered politics after retirement, she said, Women dont indulge in self-promotion as men do. As the Womens Reservation Bill granting a 33% quota for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies moves closer to implementation, experts hope it will transform the political sphere. But they emphasised that without a shift in societal mindset, the goal will remain incomplete.
A prelude to Serendipity Arts Festival in Chennai
Across generations, India has expressed itself through its cultural traditions some preserved, some forgotten, but always resurfacing with renewed meaning. From court musicians and temple sculptors to folk storytellers and community performers, the arts have been a way of inheriting memory, passing down wisdom, and finding collective meaning. Even today, the pulse of art continues to shape everyday life, quietly insisting that creativity belongs not to a select few, but to everyone who seeks it. Nowhere is this more visible than in Goa each December, when Panjims beach front and heritage locations host the Serendipity Arts Festival, a multidisciplinary celebration. Ahead of its 10th edition, Chennai received a preview at THE Park, offering audiences a glimpse of the programming and ideas the festival continues to foreground. Sunil Kant Munjal, founder-patron of Serendipity Arts, described, The Serendipity Arts Festival started as an idea to bring different art forms together because the original style in India was not to have partition in different art forms. Music, theatre, dance, crafts, everything was taught together, practised together, he said. This approach was also tied to a larger concern the limited access Indians often have to the arts. We wanted to open up much more access to the arts, which was not easy for people to experience. India has such a rich cultural heritage, but very little exposure for people. Even our museums are limited in numbers, and very few are well curated. So our idea was to create a festival which is open to all, which welcomes all, and offers a view that is unusual and where you can see multidisciplinarity and interdisciplinarity in one place, he said. This commitment to accessibility and preservation also resonated closely with Chennais own cultural landscape. When it comes to the state and the city, revival of long-forgotten art forms and literature has been a chapter that has been recurringly revisited by the natives. It was fitting that the preview evening began with a performance by Uru Paanar, a city-based ensemble known for reviving ancient musical instruments and reinterpreting Sangam-era ideas for contemporary audiences. The group, which performed at last years Serendipity Arts Festival, have also recently produced their first independent album with the support of the Foundations music grant. They opened their set with a composition paying tribute to the Tamil language and its letters. The performance moved through three of the five Sangam landscapes: Marutham, Kurinji, and Neithal. Their use of instruments such as the yazh, urumi, pepa, and sangu, revived by their own team under the label, Uru Instruments, added texture to the storytelling, while references to parai traditions, messenger drums, and the act format of oppari underscored the ensembles intent to reconnect audiences with musical forms that have gradually faded from memory. The second half of the evening shifted its focus to one of the themes Serendipity Arts is deepening this year: philanthropy. Titled Collaborate, Connect and Make Impact: The Indian Way of Giving, the panel discussion brought together Sunil, Priya Paul, and Ranvir Shah, moderated by Narayan Lakshman. As the 10th edition approaches, the Chennai preview reaffirmed the festivals aim: to create a space that brings together diverse practices and conversations while remaining rooted in the belief that art must stay open, relevant, and accessible to all. The Serendipity Arts Festival will be held in Panjim, Goa, from December 12 to 21.
India brace for fierce and competitive game in Bdesh
Asian Cup Qualifiers Dhaka, Nov 16: The Indian senior mens team arrived in Dhaka on Saturday evening, three days before their AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers Final Round match against the hosts. Despite both teams being out of contention for qualification, Blue Tigers goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu said that the rivalry will remain intact. It []
Gurha FC, Sangwali FC triumph in Thalora Premier League openers
Excelsior Sports Correspondent SAMBA, Nov 16: Gurha Football Club and Sangwali Football Club emerged victorious in the opening matches of the Thalora Premier League, held at Thalora Mandi playground, her today. In the first match, Gurha FC faced Chandan FC. The first half ended goalless, but minutes into the second half, Chanchal Slathia scored the decisive goal, giving Gurha FC by a 1-0 win. The team successfully defended their lead till the final whistle. The second match saw Sangwali FC [] The post Gurha FC, Sangwali FC triumph in Thalora Premier League openers appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Get one year of Headspace for only $35 in this Black Friday deal
Meditation app Headspace is bringing back one of its biggest annual deals this Black Friday. Through December 4, youll be able to get 50 percent off the regular annual subscription price, bringing a full year of guided meditations, sleep sounds and mindfulness tools down to $35 per year. If youve been looking to build a better daily routine, this discount makes it easier to start. Headspace has become one of the most recognizable names in digital mindfulness. The app blends practical meditation guidance with structured courses and calming soundscapes designed to make everyday stress easier to manage. Its programs cover everything from beginner-friendly introductions to mindfulness to focused content on topics like anxiety, productivity and sleep. Subscribers get access to hundreds of guided sessions led by the Headspace team, including short daily practices that can be completed in a few spare minutes, plus longer courses that help build consistency. The apps Sleepcasts and soundscapes are unique, designed to create a steady nighttime routine that promotes better rest. For mornings, there are breathing exercises and motivational mini-sessions that can help set focus for the day ahead. Headspace also includes personalized progress tracking, mood check-ins and optional reminders that make it easier to stay consistent with your new mindfulness habits. For anyone new to meditation, the apps clear structure is a major strength. You dont have to know where to start, since it suggests sessions based on your goals or current mood. This annual deal is ideal for users who want to stick with mindfulness practice over time, or anyone interested in incorporating a new habit into their lives. Paying for the year upfront typically saves money compared with the monthly plan, and the discount brings that cost down even further. Whether youre learning the basics of meditation or refining an existing routine, the full library provides enough variety to keep things engaging throughout the year. If youre still comparing wellness apps, check out our guide to the best meditation apps to see how Headspace stacks up against other options. But for those ready to commit to a calmer routine, this annual offer is one of the simplest ways to start the habit at a lower cost. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/get-one-year-of-headspace-for-only-35-in-this-black-friday-deal-163051844.html?src=rss
'India among the strongest global green H2 players': Hydrogen Europe CEO
India is emerging as a powerhouse in the global green hydrogen sector. With a burgeoning domestic market and promising export opportunities, particularly towards Europe, the nation stands ready to meet international demands. Not only is India poised to deliver green methanol and ammonia, but it is also aligned with the European Union's ambitious goals for renewable hydrogen imports.
Political reactions poured in on Sunday after Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Rohini Acharya, daughter of party supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav, announced her decision to quit politics and reportedly distanced herself from the family following the party's poor performance in the Bihar Assembly elections.
Hong Kong looks to grow bilateral investment flows with India
Hong Kong is targeting fresh foreign direct investment into India, focusing on fintech, tokenization, and green finance. The region aims to leverage its capital-raising ecosystem and expertise to support India's digital transformation and sustainability goals. This collaboration also sees Hong Kong attracting Indian companies and talent, fostering a two-way economic synergy.
A 22-year-old Indian man shed 33 kilograms in 1.5 years, not through crash diets, but by embracing consistent habits. His regimen involved a daily 25,000-step walking goal, a controlled 1,600-calorie intake, and a high-protein diet focused on eggs and whey. This dedication to sustained movement and mindful eating proved key to his remarkable transformation.
Tourism ministry begins rebranding of Incredible India campaign
NEW DELHI: The Ministry of Tourism has begun efforts to rebrand one of its most successful campaigns, Incredible India, to target new markets. The ministry will also soon begin working on a new comprehensive brand strategy and launch integrated marketing campaigns showcasing Indias diversity, culture, heritage, and modern tourism offerings. The Incredible India campaign, launched in 2002, promotes the country as a world-class travel destination. According to officials, the aim of repositioning Incredible India is to refresh, strengthen, and align the brand with evolving traveller expectations and ensure sustained growth across international and domestic markets. As a first step, the ministry plans to engage an agency with proven expertise to conduct in-depth market research to identify traveller groups interested in visiting India, study global trends, and analyse competing destinations. The research will help understand evolving preferences and provide data-driven insights for campaign development. The research will help us understand the profile and behaviour of foreign tourists or international visitors. Who are our competitors? How do travellers select destinations and plan? What experiences are they looking for? All this will help in planning better tourism campaigns, said officials. At the same time, the ministry will focus on boosting domestic tourism. The communication strategy will promote new and lesser-known destinations within India, with the twin goals of reducing pressure on overcrowded sites and fostering responsible tourism, along with building awareness about responsible travel. Over the years, the ministry has led multiple campaigns to position India as a preferred travel destination. Incredible India has become one of the most recognised tourism campaigns globally. This was followed by Incredible India 2.0 in 2017, which shifted focus from generic promotion to thematic, product-based marketing. In 2020, the ministry launched the Dekho Apna Desh initiative to promote domestic tourism and encourage citizens to explore the country. The ministry has continued strengthening the brand through initiatives such as an enhanced Incredible India mobile application equipped with Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based features and innovative tools. Officials said that, alongside conventional communication mediums like print advertisements and television and radio commercials, significant emphasis is now being placed on new media. Strategic content partnerships will be made with relevant institutions, influencers, and media entities. Collaborations are also planned with key media outlets and content creators to generate authentic and compelling narratives about our tourism offerings, officials added.
Inside Indias DPDP rules: Shaping future of personal data privacy in digital era
NEW DELHI, Nov 16: Indias DPDP rules have set a framework for a more accountable digital economy through clear consent standards, data safeguards, with the goal to arm individuals with greater control over their personal data in the worlds fourth largest economy. Here is what it means for businesses and individuals: First things first. These subordinate rules to the principal legislation Digital Personal Data Protection Act spell out operational norms for entities in collection and handling of [] The post Inside Indias DPDP rules: Shaping future of personal data privacy in digital era appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Musk Deer Fawn Rescued by Wildlife Department
SRINAGAR: A musk deer fawn was taken into custody by the Wildlife Department on Sunday after a young shepherd from Gagangir, Sonamarg, found the animal alone near a forested stretch and promptly alerted authorities. According to officials, the shepherd spotted the fawn while returning home with his goats and, fearing it might fall prey to []
India needs 86 million higher education enrolments by 2035 to meet NEP goals, says new report
Indias higher education sector faces an unprecedented expansion push, with a new report warning that achieving the NEP 2020 goal of a 50 percent GER will require 86.11 million enrolments by 2035. As traditional campuses strain under capacity and skill demands shift rapidly, the report urges digital ecosystems, flexible learning, and quality-focused reforms to prevent Indias demographic advantage from eroding.
Butterfly that mimics dry leaf may become Madhya Pradeshs next 'state butterfly'
pBHOPAL: A tropical Asian butterfly, famed for its extraordinary ability to camouflage itself as a dry or dead leaf, may soon be declared tiger-cheetah state Madhya Pradeshs state butterfly. The countrys tiger-cheetah-leopard-wolf and gharial state Madhya Pradesh may soon notify the Orange Oakleaf variety as its state butterfly. If the state forest departments proposal to declare Kallima inachus as the states butterfly materialises, the Orange Oakleaf will become the central Indian states official state butterfly. Confirming that a proposal has been sent recently to the state government, MPs Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF-Wildlife), Subhranjan Sen, said once the proposal is cleared, MP will join the select league of states which already have their state butterflies. The Orange Oakleaf butterfly is particularly found in the dense forests of the Satpura Mountain Range. Its declaration as the states butterfly will render momentum to focussed efforts on butterfly conservation, Sen told TNIE on Sunday. At least ten states and Union Territories in the country have granted state butterfly status to unique genres of butterflies. These states include Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Tripura and Uttarakhand, which notified their state butterflies between 2016 and 2023. Once MP notifies the Orange Oakleaf as its state butterfly, it will become perhaps the first state in central India to do so. The Orange Oakleaf butterfly flies in the Himalayas at low elevations, from Jammu and Kashmir to Garhwal and Kumaon, and across West Bengal, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and other northeastern states. It is also found in central and peninsular India, including Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Odisha. It flies along the central Indian highlands to Pachmarhi and Amarkantak in the Satpura Mountain Range in Madhya Pradesh. Its wings are shaped like a leaf when in a closed position. When the wings are closed, only the cryptic underside markings are visible. The resemblance to a dried leafa masqueradeis extremely realistic and gives the genus its common names, the oakleaf or dead leaf. Butterflies occupy a key position in ecosystem stability by acting as pollinators, helping plants reproduce and being a critical part of the food web or chain also, rendering a food source for predators like birds and bats. They are also vital environmental indicators, as their sensitivity to changes in their habitat signals the overall health of an ecosystem, the PCCF-Wildlife said. Notification of a state butterfly by the forest- and wildlife-rich state will also promote focussed research on various butterflies in MP, which is already considered home to 150 to 175 butterfly varieties.
Gauhati High Court seeks reply from Assam govt. on teens death in makeshift shelter
Aynal Haque, 19, died more than a month after his family was evicted during a drive to clear government land in western Assams Goalpara district in June
Finland's president urges Europe to hold its nerve as he warns no ceasefire likely soon in Ukraine
Finnish President Alexander Stubb anticipates no Ukraine ceasefire before spring. He stresses continued European support for Kyiv, despite internal corruption issues. Stubb highlights the need for resilience, or 'sisu', to navigate Russian hybrid warfare. He believes President Trump and European leaders must increase pressure on Russia to alter its strategic goals.
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Flags Off Namo Run Under Fit Yuva For Viksit Bharat Initiative
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday flagged off a major youth-led fitness event themed Fit Yuva for Viksit Bharat, featuring the Namo Run dedicated to promoting road safety and a healthier lifestyle among young citizens. The event drew enthusiastic participation from students, youth groups, and sports enthusiasts, creating a vibrant atmosphere aimed at encouraging physical fitness and responsible behaviour on the roads. Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta emphasised the growing role of sports in shaping Indias younger generation. Celebrating the achievements of women athletes, she said, ...Today, even girls play excellent cricket. Every game has its own importance, and every player is significant in their own way. This sports competition, this run, and your participation here are all very important. I congratulate all of you and the entire organising team for bringing everyone together. Her remarks highlighted the inclusivity and empowerment embedded in sports culture, especially as more young women take to competitive athletics and outdoor activities. BJP Delhi President Virendra Sachdeva, who also addressed participants, stressed the need to integrate sports and fitness into everyday life. Encouraging families to nurture athletic habits, he said, Activities like this should become a regular part of life. I also request the parents here to encourage their children to pursue at least one discipline. Sports are not just a way of living; they make us physically and mentally strong. I have often seen that children involved in sports naturally develop concentration and discipline... Sachdeva noted that events like the Namo Run foster community spirit while steering youth away from unhealthy lifestyles. Encouraging families to nurture athletic habits, he said, Activities like this should become a regular part of life. I also request the parents here to encourage their children to pursue at least one discipline. Sports are not just a way of living; they make us physically and mentally strong. I have often seen that children involved in sports naturally develop concentration and discipline... Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score The Namo Run, focused on road safety awareness, included demonstrations, safety briefings, and youth pledges to follow traffic norms. Organisers highlighted that fitter and more aware young citizens contribute directly to building a Viksit Bharat, aligning with national goals of holistic development. Article Source: IANS
Ramachandra Guha slams Project Cheetah as disaster; says scientific expertise ignored
BENGALURU: Renowned historian Ramachandra Guha has criticised the reintroduction of cheetahs in India under Project Cheetah, particularly the initiative underway in Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh. It is a disaster. It is a financial scandal and a highly risky project. It was the 70th birthday gift of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to himself. Experts had advised that the money instead be utilised for strengthening and relocating the Asiatic Lion, but that was not done, he said. He added that the Delhi government is unable to control the air pollution, and the Karnataka government is keen on the tunnel road project. While leading energy and transport experts from ace institutions in Bengaluru have not been consulted. Guha said that he was of the view that caste and political issues had led to a loss of faith in India among its neighbours and countries across the world. He was speaking on the first day of the two-day-long Nature inFocus Festival and Awards 2025, The Wild in not apart, but a part- Blurring Boundaries. The country has many ecological and economic scientific experts in the various educational universities who can take India to a better path, but they are not consulted, he noted. Guha said Madhav Gadgil prepared a report on Western Ghats, but it was trashed by Left in Kerala, DMK in TN, Congress in Karnataka and BJP in Mrashtra and Goa. Its not just the politicians; it is also the IAS officers who have contempt for specialists because they cleared and topped exams around 20 years back. Former-PM Indira Gandhi had two scientific experts in her cabinet, but now they are looked down upon. Not just Western Ghats but the Eastern Ghats and Himalayas are headed for disaster. Earlier, silent protest marches were held on Bengaluru City roads. Now everyone is sent to Freedom Park. The government should rename the place to Freedom Locked Away Path instead, he added.
MANGALURU: A At first glance, Vijaya may appear to be just another watchman at the gates of St Aloysius (Deemed to be University). But behind that uniform is a man of unshakeable passion for theatre. Hailing from Hanekal near Bengaluru, Vijayas tryst with theatre began when he was nine years old. Growing up in a modest household, he had few material possessions but an imagination that knew no bounds. It all started when my mother noticed my interest in drama, recalls Vijaya. There was a drama practice happening nearby, and she requested them to let me take part. His mothers encouragement turned out to be the spark that ignited a lifelong passion. Vijaya was offered the role of Shikandi in a mythological play. Though it was a minor part, it gave him the confidence to pursue acting seriously. Within two years, he was entrusted with more prominent roles playing characters like Vidura, Karna, Arjuna, and Dharmaraya. Each performance polished his skills. I loved stepping into different characters and living their emotions, he says. At 16, Vijaya won an award at Kala Kshetra in Bengaluru for his portrayal of Shakuni in a mythological drama. This was not a role he had prepared for. His drama teacher, Jayaram, had offered him the part at the last minute when the actor who was to play Shakuni fell ill. It was a replacement role, but I put my heart and soul into it, Vijaya recalls. Not long after that performance, Jayaram passed away. The loss of his teacher and the dissolution of the team marked a turning point in his journey. Vijaya lost his parents when he was 17 and he moved to Mangaluru. He worked as a hotel supplier. He had little opportunity to pursue his artistic goals. Even while working long hours, I would often recite dialogues in my mind, he admits. The love for theatre never faded. Seven years ago, Vijaya joined St. Aloysius as a watchman. His passion for drama, however, remained alive. Whenever he saw students rehearsing for plays or college events, he reminisced of his days on the stage. Two years ago, Vijaya mentioned his background in theatre to lecturer Christy. During an event organized by the Ranga Adhyayana Kendra at the college, Vijaya was invited as a guest. What followed left the audience spellbound. Vijaya Vijaya performed a 10-minute monologue as Shakuni, the very role that had earned him acclaim years ago. With minimal preparation, he flawlessly delivered his dialogues, captivating the students and faculty alike. I didnt have a script, Vijaya says. I remembered the dialogues from my younger days. During my free time at work, I often practice a few lines just to keep the passion alive. Performing again after so many years was like traveling back in time. The applause he received that day reaffirmed his identity as an artiste. St Aloysius is my second home, he says. Ive earned not just respect here, but genuine love. Even after students graduate, many still call or message me to ask about my health. That affection means everything to me. Vijaya is married to, Kushala, and their daughter, Trisha, is currently doing her pre-university at St. Aloysius. Vice-Chancellor of St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Dr. Praveen Martis, praised Vijayas sincerity and passion. During the college event where he performed, parents, teachers, and students were amazed by his talent. He is a passionate man, he told TNIE . Speaking to TNIE one of the staff members added, we dont see Vijaya as just a watchman. He is one of us, and always ready to help. Outgoing students often make sure to take a group photo with him before leaving the college. That shows how much he is loved here. Christopher DSouza, Director, Ranga Adhyana Kendra, St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), says, We regularly practice drama late in the evening. Vijaya has built a rapport with everyone, often helping us during rehearsals. One day, he mentioned that he came from a traditional drama troupe. We often saw him practicing dialogues while walking around, and were amazed by his ability to recall lines even after 35 years. We later invited him as a guest to our student theatre festival and encouraged him to wear a costume again. There were tears in his eyes as he stepped on to the stage. His two-minute performance left the entire audience awestruck. For Vijaya, every day at the university gate is more than a job. Its another scene in the larger play of life, one where kindness, humility, and love for art take center stage.
Corbett vultures fly 1,000 km for food: Study
BAGESHWAR: In a remarkable display of endurance, vultures native to Uttarakhands famed Corbett Tiger Reserve (CTR) are undertaking massive migratory journeys, travelling up to 1,000 kilometres in search of food, according to a joint study with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). The research, aimed at understanding the lifestyle and behaviour of these ecologically vital scavengers, suggests that the local vulture population may be showing signs of recovery. The study kicked off last year when researchers fitted radio tags on approximately five vultures roosting within the reserve. The goal was to map their movements and understand their needs. The initial data showed that these vultures were initially sticking close, circling within a 50- to 100-kilometre radius of Corbett, stated a source within CTR. However, the tracking soon revealed astonishing long-distance flights, with tagged birds being located as far away as the remote regions of Nepal. Locations tracked included areas stretching from the nearby Rajaji National Park all the way across the border into Nepal, confirming extensive foraging ranges. Saket Badola, Director of CTR, confirmed the significant findings. The research has revealed that these vultures are covering distances exceeding 1,000 kilometres. We have received location pings from tagged birds extending into Nepal, Dr Badola remarked. Our research into their specific habitat needs and behaviour remains ongoing. Bird experts note that such long-distance travel is not entirely unusual for vultures, who are built for aerial efficiency. Rangnath Pandey, former Deputy Director of the Uttarakhand Forest Department, highlighted their preferred local environment. Vultures around Corbett prefer open plains and riverbanks near human settlements, Pandey explained, adding, Normally, they cover distances of 400 to 500 kilometres when foraging. Pandey further elaborated on the sophisticated techniques these birds employ while airborne: Vultures spend most of their day soaring high in the sky, utilising thermal updrafts to conserve energy. They have exceptional eyesight, allowing them to spot carcasses or the behaviour of other scavengers on the ground from great heights. He also pointed to their highly social foraging tactics: Vultures often rely on the behaviour of other vultures. If one vulture suddenly circles downward, others quickly follow, knowing that a food source has been located. The successful tracking of these long journeys provides crucial data for conservationists working to protect Indias critically endangered vulture populations, offering hope that adequate food sources might be available across a wider geographical area than previously assumed.
Race Against Time: UN Warns World is Failing to Meet 2030 Development Goals
Anjali P K anjali.pk@christuniversity.in The world is deviating dangerously off track to meet its 2030 development commitments, according to a stark new warning from the United Nations. The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2025, released by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, paints a sobering picture of progress on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted a decade ago. With just five years remaining, only 35 percent of the 169 targets are on track, 48 percent are advancing too [] The post Race Against Time: UN Warns World is Failing to Meet 2030 Development Goals appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
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