Brazil tame India in 4-0 friendly win
Chelsea winger Estevao scored Brazils first goal and assisted Pedro before Lino netted a second-half brace, helping Carlo Ancelottis side conclude their tour of Australia and India with two wins and a draw
Quantum computing will start in Amaravati on February 3, 2027, says Andhra CM Naidu
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India impress on counters, but even lacklustre Brazil too hot to handle; beat hosts 4-0 in Kolkata
Heading to the match, the general expectations was Brazil to create a flurry of chances and test Indias defence. Multiple goals were expected and even though that assumption turned true, but Brazil were far from producing their best brand of football . They lacked character and some may argue that it saved India from a humiliation. However, the other side of the coin can read that India were very well organsied defensively and threatened Brazil on multiple occasions, which no one expected.
Brazil breeze past India 4-0 in historic Kolkata friendly
India impressed during the opening 27 minutes, but Brazil gradually took control and scored twice before half-time before adding two more goals after the break.
Ranking 12 of Zlatan Ibrahimovic
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We created our own piece of history: Craig Fulton hails Indias back-to-back Asian Games Hockey golds
As the Indian men's hockey team clinched the gold medal at the 2026 Asian Games after defeating Malaysia 5-1 in the final on Saturday, head coach Craig Fulton praised the team for achieving their goal of winning back-to-back Asian Games gold medals and creating a piece of Indian hockey history. He said the team overcame the challenges following a difficult World Cup campaign, regrouped effectively before arriving in Japan, and maintained consistency throughout the seven-match tournament before producing a strong performance in the final. The Indian men
Football friendly: Brazil take 2-0 lead at half-time
Brazil's star-studded line-up, including Vinicius Jr and Marquinhos, is set to face India in a friendly match at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, with veteran goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu captaining the Indian side.
Amit Shah Sets Ambitious Goal for a Drug-Free India by 2029
Amit Shah announces a target for a drug-free India by 2029 during a conference in Bhopal, emphasizing collaborative efforts for the initiative. Amit Shah Sets Ambitious Goal for a Drug-Free India by 2029
Willem Dafoe Opens Up About Lifes Biggest Ambition, Says The Targets Always Moving
Willem Dafoe opens up about his approach to life, ambition and changing goals, saying he focuses on taking things one step at a time. The actor says his biggest ambition is to beat fear, have fun, stay useful and remain engaged while embracing lifes unpredictable path.
CRICKET | Smarans goal: 1000-plus runs in the Ranji season
Nivin Pauly, Raghava Lawrence-starrer Benz's fourth schedule begins
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 3 (IANS) The makers of director Bakkiyaraj Kannan's eagerly-awaited action thriller 'Benz', featuring actor Raghava Lawrence in the lead, on Saturday announced that the unit of the film had now commenced its fourth schedule of filming. Taking to its social media timelines, Passion Studios, one of the production houses producing the film, wrote, Heres the update youve been waiting on. #Benz Fourth Schedule Begins. The production house also shared some BTS pictures from the sets on the occasion. The film has triggered huge interest among fans as it features actor Nivin Pauly in not one but two roles in the film. More significantly, Nivin Pauly plays the antagonist in the film. It may be recalled that Nivin Pauly, had in November last year, dropped a hint to suggest that the film's third schedule had been wrapped. Taking to his social media timelines, Nivin Pauly had posted a series of pictures of himself from the film and written, Darkness Loading....... He then tagged all the cast and crew members associated with the film and then went on to add #ScheduleWrap #BenzMovie #Walter as the hashtags. Ace director Lokesh Kanakaraj, who is one of the producers of the film, had in July last year confirmed that the unit had completed the second schedule of the film and had expressed hope that the unit would complete the film in the next three to four months. In a video interview to a media house, Lokesh Kanakaraj, who is producing the film along with Sudhan Sundaram, and Jagadish Palanisamy, had said, Our next film is Benz. They have finished the second schedule if I am not wrong. Two schedules are done. Philo is the editor. I will check with him as to how the film is looking. He will give me some updates. Probably, they will finish it in another three or four months. We have other films in the pipeline. The film has triggered huge interest for a number of reasons but the most important reason is that the film will feature actor Nivin Pauly as a villain for the first time. While introducing his character in the film, director Bakkiyaraj Kannan, on his X timeline, had said, Soft boy? That was yesterday. Nivin Pauly 2.0our certified Baddie, Breaking hearts and Breaking rules & Breaking bad. Meet #Walter, @nivinofficial. The character promo for Nivin Pauly's character which the makers released begins with sounds emanating from a room as if somebody is getting bludgeoned there. Soon, Nivin Pauly, with his body decked in gold ornaments and carrying a huge metal hammer from which blood seems to be dripping, walks out. He sports a smile only to reveal golden teeth. He turns around to ask another character (also played by Nivin Pauly) the name of a person. The other character, which is busy eating and which comes across as a naive, uneducated individual, tells the villain it is 'Bens' and then after a while, corrects the spelling to say, 'Benz'. We then get to know that the antagonist's name is Walter. Walter says, When a head inside a helmet itself is cut like the head of a goat, who... and laughs suggestively. The character promo ends with Walter describing himself. He says, A dirty mind, a beautiful heart deadly combination. Love you Walter! Written and directed by Bakkiyaraj Kannan, the film has music by young music sensation Sai Abhyankkar. Cinematography for the film is by Goutham George and editing is by Philomin Raj. Art direction for the film has been done by Jacki while Pradeep Boopathi is serving as the creative producer.
Maha CM launches Mumbai Book Festival 2026 logo and website
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 3 (IANS) Marking a major milestone for Maharashtras literary landscape, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday unveiled the official logo and website for the Mumbai Book Festival 2026. The announcement marks the commencement of preparations for a six-day celebration of books, literature, art and culture scheduled to take place from Nov 24 to Nov 29, 2026, at the University of Mumbais Kalina Campus. Organised by the National Book Trust (NBT), India, under the Ministry of Education, Government of India, in collaboration with the Government of Maharashtra and the University of Mumbai, the festival aims to celebrate Indias rich and diverse literary traditions, deepen the nations reading culture, nurture young readers and build a dynamic platform for intellectual exchange. The launch ceremony took place in the presence of several key dignitaries and stakeholders, including Milind Marathe, Chairman, National Book Trust, India; Ravindra Kulkarni, Vice-Chancellor, University of Mumbai; Ameet Satam, Chief Organiser; Acharya Pawan Tripathi, Chief Convenor; and Yuvraj Malik, Director, National Book Trust, India. Adding to the occasions significance, CM Fadnavis shared the announcement on social media, emphasising the festivals vital role in connecting the public with literature. The launch coincides with a significant anniversary. Exactly two years earlier, on Oct 3, 2024, the Marathi language was officially conferred the status of a Classical Language. Announcing the Mumbai Book Festival on Oct 3, 2026, connects this proud heritage with a renewed commitment to promoting reading across the state, the Chief Minister said. Now, NBT brings this large-scale initiative to Indias economic capital, Marathe said. He added that the upcoming festival at the Kalina Campus would serve as a single destination for readers, families, students and literature enthusiasts across Mumbai, featuring dedicated children and youth zones, interactive learning activities, workshops and talent-development programmes. Dozens of publishers will display works across multiple genres and languages under one roof. In addition, there will be evening performances showcasing local and national performing arts. Marathe said that the National Book Trust, established on Aug 1, 1957, operates on three core mandates: curating diverse literature, fostering multilingual translation, and promoting a culture of reading through the translation of outstanding literature across various Indian and international languages. It focuses on producing India-centric, non-academic, general-reading books for all age groups. During book festivals, Meet the Author sessions, translation workshops and youth writing initiatives are also organised. While the New Delhi World Book Fair remains NBTs flagship annual event, the trust has actively expanded its footprint across India to ensure books reach every citizen. NBT has successfully hosted regional festivals across the country, including the Gomti Book Festival in Lucknow, the Chinar Book Festival in Srinagar, as well as events in Patna, Sambalpur, Shillong, Pune, Nagpur, Goa, Ahmedabad and even at an altitude of 11,500 feet in Ladakh, Marathe said.
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Top Stories: Apple Smart Home Launch on October 13, iPhone Duo Production Issues, and More
Things are getting crazy in the Apple rumor world, as even though the iPhone 18 Pro and several other products have only just launched and the iPhone Duo is right around the corner, there's even more to come imminently. October 13 looks to be the date for an introduction of Apple's revamped smart home portfolio, including the home hub device we've been hearing about for ages. This week also saw word that Apple's supply chain is struggling to meet production yield goals for the iPhone Duo ahead of its launch, while iPhone 18 Pro owners are now getting a chance to put the devices through their paces, so read on below for all of the details! Top Stories Three New Apple Smart Home Products Coming on October 13 A couple of those leaked products above could be arriving very shortly, as Bloomberg 's Mark Gurman says Apple will be introducing a trio of new smart home products on Tuesday, October 13 . Apple will reportedly debut its long-rumored smart home hub product, as well as the new HomePod mini and Apple TV models, and while he didn't specify how Apple will introduce them, signs are pointing to some sort of event . Apple retail stores have reportedly also received confidential boxes that are marked Do Not Open Until October 8 and which are likely to contain merchandising materials. It's unclear, however, if they are for the upcoming iPhone Duo launch or something related to the smart home product introduction. Apple Smart Home Hub to Feature iMac G4-Style Design Apple's long-rumored smart home hub will have an iMac G4-style design and a host of unique features, Bloomberg 's Mark Gurman reports. The smart home hub is said to feature a square 6-inch display, with variants that can be placed on a countertop or mounted on a wall. It features a single FaceTime camera on the front, with microphones and speakers in its connected base. Leaks suggest the hub may be available in Silver, Space Gray, Starlight, and Rose Pink colors , and will be able to display user-customizable Photo Faces pulled from your photos library, memories, and shared albums, a feature that appears similar to what will be available for StandBy mode on the iPhone Duo. iPhone Duo Reportedly Facing Production Problems Ahead of Launch The iPhone Duo is reportedly facing production difficulties ahead of its October launch , with early output expected to be limited. A person said to be close to Foxconn's supply chain told China's Jiemian News that final assembly yields for Apple's first foldable iPhone were only slightly above 60% as of September 17. The source said that, under Apple's current quality standards, it could take another six months to a year for the assembly line to reach a mature yield. According to the source, Foxconn is repeatedly adjusting equipment, assembly processes, and production settings as it makes the iPhone Duo at scale. The source also said suppliers were waiting to see whether Apple would ease any quality requirements to accelerate production. iPhone 18 Pro First Impressions: What Do You Think So Far? It's been almost two weeks since the iPhone 18 Pro models launched, and we want to hear from MacRumors readers. What do you think of Apple's newest iPhones? If you upgraded from an older phone, was it worth it? What about upgrading from an iPhone 17 Pro? What problems are you running into? Anything you love so far? MacRumors readers have already been sharing early opinions on the MacRumors forums, and there are interesting discussion threads to read through. For early reviews and hands-on images, make sure to check out the first impressions and photos thread . Not everything has been perfect, however, as some users have been experiencing issues such as speaker crackling or popping while some iPhone 18 Pro Max users on AT&T in the U.S. have been having issues with cellular connectivity or eSIM provisioning . Apple Planning to Launch Products Faster and More Often John Ternus is marking one month as Apple CEO, and he is apparently undertaking efforts to restructure the company to accelerate product development and introduce new products more frequently , according to Bloomberg 's Mark Gurman. Ternus apparently wants Apple to roaden its range of devices and create a leaner organization with a greater focus on engineering. One proposal under consideration is to rely less on Apple's traditional spring and fall product release cycles, and introduce new devices more quickly and throughout the year. Ternus has also purportedly indicated that Apple must become more experimental to remain competitive in the era of artificial intelligence. MacRumors Newsletter Each week, we publish an email newsletter like this highlighting the top Apple stories, making it a great way to get a bite-sized recap of the week hitting all of the major topics we've covered and tying together related stories for a big-picture view. So if you want to have top stories like the above recap delivered to your email inbox each week, subscribe to our newsletter ! Tag: Top Stories This article, Top Stories: Apple Smart Home Launch on October 13, iPhone Duo Production Issues, and More first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums
Asian Games: India men defend hockey gold for first time with stellar 5-1 win, qualify for LA 2028
Digital Desk | Kakamigahara (Japan), Oct 3 (IANS) India defended the gold medal in men's hockey after a strong 4-1 win over Malaysia in the Asian Games 2026 final at the Gifu Prefectural Green Stadium in Kakamigahara on Saturday. Harmanpreet Singh scored a brace, while Jugraj Singh, Hardik Singh and Shilanand Lakra also found the back of the net for India as the Men in Blue celebrated their first-ever gold defence at the Asian Games. Meanwhile, India have also clinched a direct berth for the Los Angeles Olympics with this win. Harmanpreet Singh's team came into the final without breaking a sweat. They topped their group stage with five wins in five matches. The Men in Blue defeated arch-rivals Pakistan in the semifinal by 4-3. That game tested India as Pakistan levelled from 0-3 down to 3-3. However, Abhishek nailed a strike in the final minute to take India home. Meanwhile, this is also the first time that India men and women have both won the gold medal at the same edition of the Asian Games. The women's team won the yellow metal in the final after defeating Paris Olympics silver medallists China in the gold clash. India men began the gold medal clash with strong intent as they made circle entries in the first quarter and then found the opening through captain Harmanpreet when he fired a dragflick on a penalty corner to put India 1-0 up in the 11th minute. Malaysia, however, responded as they levelled things back a few minutes later with Shello Silverius smashing a brilliant goal from the left flank as Indian goalkeeper Suraj Karkera was blindsided by a layer of players in front of him. The two teams were 1-1 at the end of the first quarter. Malaysia attacked more in the second half as they secured a few penalty corners and tested the Indian defence. India later earned a PC, and Jugraj put India ahead in the 23rd minute, giving India a 2-1 lead at the end of the first half. India began the second half with strong possession and also kept putting pressure on the Malaysians. They earned a couple of penalty corners and then a penalty stroke when the ball hit the body of the Malaysian post defender. Hardik turned up and scored from the spot for a 3-1 India lead at the end of the third quarter. India kept Malaysia in check with a counterattack, and then Sanjay found Rajinder in the circle, but his shot went wide. India found their fourth goal in the 54th minute when Shilanand put one into the goal after a deflection to make it 4-1 for India. Captain Harmanpreet then got his brace when he converted a penalty corner for a 5-1 lead, which the Men in Blue held for a huge win. This is the fifth time that India have won a gold medal in the Asian Games, bagging the top spot on the podium in 1966, 1998, 2014, 2022 and 2026. The Indian men's hockey team finished runners-up on nine occasions -- in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1974, 1978, 1982*, 1990, 1994 and i002. The country has claimed bronze medals in 1986, 2010, and 2018.
If serious Oppn parties come together, BJP will get just 5 seats in 2027 Goa polls: Chodankar
Girish Chodankar of Congress expressed confidence that BJP could be reduced to five seats in the assembly elections. He emphasized the importance of opposition parties uniting to effectively challenge the ruling party. Chodankar criticized the alliance between Goa Forward Party and Aam Aadmi Party for their misleading campaigns against Congress. He mentioned that Congress is working towards bringing other opposition parties together.
Netflixs The Great Indian Kapil Show Season 5 is keeping its festive run going with the cast of The Vvaan: Force of the Forrest. Sidharth Malhotra, Tamannaah Bhatia, Shweta Tiwari, Anup Soni and Maniesh Paul will join Kapil Sharma in the second episode, which premieres on Saturday, October 3 at 8 pm.
Teen Archer Kumkum Mohod Secures Historic Asian Games Gold And Olympic Quota
Teenaged Indian archer Kumkum Mohod made history at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games by winning India's first-ever women's individual recurve archery gold medal and securing an Olympic quota place. Her coach and association secretary highlight her dedication, academic inclination, and long-term goal of winning an Olympic medal, despite financial challenges.
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Kumkum Mohod Reflects on Historic Gold Win at Asian Games
Kumkum Mohod, Indias first woman archer to win an individual gold at the Asian Games, shares her emotions and future goals post-victory. Kumkum Mohod Reflects on Historic Gold Win at Asian Games
Newly appointed Working President of the Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee (UPCC) and Saharanpur MP Imran Masood on Saturday vowed to dedicate his ody, mind, and resources entirely to strengthening the party's organisational base across the state. Speaking to ANI, Masood emphasised his complete commitment to whatever duties the leadership assigns him following his appointment as part of the Congress high command's major organisational reshuffle in Uttar Pradesh. I will work wherever the party assigns me. If it is the party's wish that I work here, then I will work here; our sole objective and goal is our party, to keep it standing strong and to build it up. I will dedicate my body, mind, and resources entirely to fulfilling the expectations with which the party has sent me here, he said. Further, he revealed that booth-level committee formations are nearly complete and will be finalised within a few days. Our organisational rebuilding program is underway and is nearly complete; ev...
Wamiqa Gabbi urges kindness towards animals: Lets make this world a little safer
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 3 (IANS) Actress Wamiqa Gabbi has urged everyone to show greater compassion towards animals, stressing that while they may not speak the same language, they experience emotions such as love, fear and pain. Wamiqa took to Instagram to share a string of videos featuring her with hens, puppies and goats, before wrapping up the post with a childhood picture of herself surrounded by pigeons. They may not speak our language, but they feel everything we do love, fear, pain, and kindness. Too often, animals are treated like they dont matter, when all they ask from us is a little compassion, care and a safe place to exist, she wrote as the caption. Wamiqa added: This Gandhi Jayanti, lets make a small promise. To be kinder, to protect those who cannot protect themselves, and to make this world a little safer for every living being. Talking about the actress, who turned 33 last month, made her screen debut as a child with a brief role in the Hindi film Jab We Met in 2007. She later established herself as a leading lady in Punjabi cinema with roles in comedy films, such as Tu Mera 22 Main Tera 22, Nikka Zaildar 2 and its sequel Nikka Zaildar 3 as well as the crime drama Kali Jotta. Gabbi expanded into other languages with the Tamil romance Maalai Naerathu Mayakkam and the Malayalam sports drama Godha. She then transitioned into a period focused on Hindi streaming ventures such as the period drama series Jubilee, followed by her role as a spy's wife in Vishal Bhardwaj's thriller film Khufiya. She has also worked in films such as Bhool Chuk Maaf, Bhooth Bangla and Pati Patni Aur Woh Do. Wamiqa will next be seen in Prahaar: The Untold Story of Ujjwal Nikam, an upcoming Hindi-language film directed by Avinash Arun. It stars Rajkummar Rao, Wamiqa Gabbi, Jaideep Ahlawat and Sikandar Kher. The film is a biopic of Ujjwal Nikam who appeared against Ajmal Kasab in the trial of the 26/11 Mumbai attack case.
Women's Hockey Gold: Direct Path To LA Olympics
The Indian women's hockey team secured a historic Asian Games gold medal, defeating China 1-0, which also guaranteed direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Goalkeeper Savita Punia highlighted the team's focus on Olympic qualification and credited the new coaching staff for fostering unity and belief, transforming the team's performance and mindset over the past 10 months.
Analysis | Punjab Congress' New Captain. Can Pargat Singh Change The Game?
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Freer, Grateful Kohli No Longer 'overly Intense' About Achievements, Says De Villiers
ODI World Cup: Virat Kohli has reached a stage in his illustrious career where he is no longer overly intense about milestones, according to former South Africa captain AB de Villiers, who sees his long-time friend playing with a newfound sense of gratitude and freedom as he navigates the final stretch of his journey in international cricket. In eight ODI innings in 2026, Kohli has amassed 552 runs at an astonishing average of 78.85 and strike-rate of 118.20 making him the third leading run-getter after India captain Shubman Gill and Englands premier batter Joe Root. That's a natural thing to happen at the back end of your career, where you realise my days are numbered, whether it's one year or two or three years. Who knows how long Virat will go for. Only he will know what his goals are, if it's maybe his last ODI World Cup, he will try and win it. I don't know how many IPLs he has left in him, but that's obviously a completely personal decision. I think towards the back end of a person's career, you realise how grateful you must be and how lucky you have been to have had such a long career after where you come from. You think back to your early days as a five-year-old boy running around the cricket field and just enjoying the game. It almost does the full cycle. In the middle of your career, we're always, as athletes, very driven, very emotional, and want to win every trophy and be the best in the world. I think this is a phase where Virat is sort of just letting go a bit and looking around him and realising how lucky he has been and how grateful he must be for everything that has come his way. He's achieved everything in cricket. That's also maybe something that pops in the back of his mind I've achieved everything. I don't have to be so intense about achievements anymore, de Villiers told IANS in a select chat facilitated by FanCode, the official broadcaster of World Championship of Legends. In Thiruvananthapuram, the venue for India's ODI series opener against West Indies, Kohli became only the second batter after Sachin Tendulkar to score 15,000 ODI runs via smashing his 55th ODI century an unbeaten 139. In a career packed with records, titles and accolades, Kohli now speaks with a sense of gratitude for the journey and a desire to keep improving. From the fiery teenager who debuted for India to the seasoned veteran whos full of gratitude and oozes humility in his words, Kohlis transformation in demeanour has been striking. Just enjoy the journey, enjoy my teammates, have a great influence in other people's careers and lives. Whatever comes my way at the back end of my career, I'm happy and grateful for it and it's really good to see. I've spoken to Virat and he will recall me speaking to him at the age of 28 to 32 about being too overly intense, to sort of just sit back a bit, work hard on your game and have an impact in other people's lives. That is definitely shining through now more than ever and very happy for him. It's an incredible run of form. We've seen this kind of form in 2012 to 2014 and then again 2016 to 2019 and now this is like a third peak for him in really taking his game to the next level. We've often heard him speak about taking his game to the next level, thinking about the game a little bit differently and you can see that in that positive approach and that aggressive approach he's taking on. So it makes me very happy to see him perform like he is, added de Villiers. This mental shift and relaxed approach have translated directly into a tactical evolution for ODIs, where he has abandoned his traditional anchor role for outright aggression right from the start of his innings. According to data from CricViz, Kohli has been striking at an unprecedented 119 across his first 20 deliveries in ODIs this year - far exceeding his previous best of 89 in both 2016 and 2018. The shift is further illustrated by an early attacking shot rate of 58.7 percent and a boundary percentage of 17.9 percent during Kohlis first 20 balls in ODIs in 2026. The metrics also reflect a sharp increase in his power-hitting, with Kohli hitting a six every 27.4 balls in 2026, which is miles ahead as compared to 2025 (52.1) and 2014 (52.9). Asked whether this six-hitting version of Kohli in ODIs represents a better iteration of the batter, de Villiers opined, It's difficult to say. I think it is a better version because of the way he's so relaxed and out there in the middle, you can almost see he's completely free. He showed signs of that at the ICC Champions Trophy in the UAE in 2025. I started seeing him play a different role and then he got stuck a little bit again, going back to old habits, and then just sort of let go completely again. But that's the way I love Virat and I've always said that there's a side of him that people don't know. I think we're seeing that side more than ever now, where he's just completely focused almost on other people and he realises that all he can do is just go out there and express his talent and let the fans and the people around the world enjoy that for one last time or for the next two years or three or five years. I don't know for how long, but I love seeing this side of him. I think it must be an incredible experience to share a dressing room with him as a youngster now. I think they are learning from him more than ever being in this state of mind. But yes, I think because he's so free, he's making sound decisions out there. He's not so intense and not overthinking the game. He's going a lot on gut feel, it seems. Generally, the gut feel is right as your instinct takes over. He's played this game all his life. When Virat plays with his instinct, he's pretty much unstoppable. It's quite scary to think of where this will go and how good and how big of an impact he's going to play for Team India in the 2027 World Cup. De Villiers signed off by strongly cautioning the Indian selectors against moving on from both Kohli and Rohit Sharma, adding that their wealth of experience remain essential to the national setup in their quest to win their third mens ODI World Cup. That's a personal call that the Indian selectors will have to make. From my point of view, I wouldn't go without Rohit. I think he comes with incredible experience, him and Virat, and the combination, and belief the rest of the squad gets because of the two of them being there is just immeasurable. So I wouldn't go without him - whether he's in great form now or not is irrelevant, in my opinion. Just the kind of leadership qualities and the belief he instils in the rest of the team is great for the side. Form-wise, it's always something you can work on. Fitness-wise, I think he'll still be fine. I've played in most of the squads I was part of throughout my career. There were always a couple of more experienced players or older guys who are not as agile in the field anymore. That's a personal call that the Indian selectors will have to make. From my point of view, I wouldn't go without Rohit. I think he comes with incredible experience, him and Virat, and the combination, and belief the rest of the squad gets because of the two of them being there is just immeasurable. So I wouldn't go without him - whether he's in great form now or not is irrelevant, in my opinion. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Asian Games 2026: Indian women's hockey team clinches gold medal
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2027 Mens ODI WC Will Inspire Next Generation, SA Will Be Good Hosts, Says De Villiers
Former South Africa: Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers expects the 2027 Mens ODI World Cup to inspire a new generation of cricketers from the country, and drew parallels to how the 2003 edition being hosted in the country shaped his own early journey as a 19-year-old aspiring to play international cricket. South Africa will co-host the 50-over mega event alongside Zimbabwe and Namibia from October 2 to November 21, 2027 and mark the tournament's return to the region for the first time in 24 years. While South Africa and Zimbabwe were co-hosts for the 2003 Mens ODI World Cup alongside Kenya, Namibia will be hosting its maiden senior ICC tournament as a host nation. Yes, the ODI World Cup in 2027 is coming back to South Africa for the first time since 2003. The 2003 World Cup played a huge part in my career. It had a big influence and impact on me. I clearly remember a cricketing clinic Australian had at the University of Pretoria. That's where I played my cricket at that time, at the age of 19. I got to know Adam Gilchrist a bit better. He worked with my wicketkeeping skills that day. Obviously, he had no idea who I was at that time. But I very clearly recall having a very good moment with him. He told me to work on my left hand and said, All the best, youngster. Three years later, I played cricket against him in Test matches and ODIs. It had a huge impact on me and I'm pretty sure the 2027 World Cup will have the same impact on the youngsters of South Africa, hoping to represent their country one day. Obviously, from an economical point of view, great to have the World Cup here in South Africa, also co-hosted by Namibia and Zimbabwe and I'm looking forward to the rest of the world to come and enjoy the great parts of South Africa and how welcoming we can be and we are really good hosts, de Villiers told IANS in a select chat facilitated by FanCode, the official broadcaster of the World Championship of Legends. All focus will also be on South Africa, who are yet to win the Mens ODI World Cup title and de Villiers backed the side to have a good time in the competition on home soil. So looking forward to that and I think the cricket is going to be magnificent, as it was in 2003 and hopefully the Proteas will perform better this time. As for 2003, from a performance point of view, it doesn't bring back great memories. But the team really looks strong now. Most of the team is still relatively unknown globally. But I know they have a lot of chemistry. There's a great culture there and lots of individuals who can win you games of cricket and we showcased it now against Australia, winning our sixth consecutive ODI series win against the Aussies. So really looking good for the guys and once the World Cup starts, there will be a lot of hype, a lot of attention from the media and the public and my message to the Proteas will be just to keep it in now, stay focused on what the goal is, and hopefully they'll have a really good World Cup, he added. Turning his attention to two-time champions India, de Villiers highlighted the role of Indian Premier League (IPL) in creating an unmatched pipeline of talent. Yes, the Indian youngsters are coming through and I think the IPL is an incredible platform and laid the foundation for Indian cricket to just have such a large depth of talent. That's also not going to change anytime soon. They have the ability to play around with different combinations in the batting and bowling departments, and from a leadership point of view. They can just really play around with a deep pool of talent, which is fantastic. Plenty of youngsters have impressed me and I'm very happy. I consider myself lucky that I'm not an Indian selector. It's a tough job with the amount of talent they have. There's just too many to mention, to be honest. Lots of individuals stand out. They're obviously still playing around with the balance of their squad going into that World Cup. India always comes with a strong spin contingent, so it will be interesting to see who they go for. Theres Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washi - so many spinners and players to pick from and plenty of talent in the batting department. That's probably the biggest headache - they really have about a group of 10 batters to pick from who are all match winners. It's really, really difficult and good luck to the Indian selectors, he added. Among India's emerging prodigies, young batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has captured widespread attention with his fearless hitting and has found himself in the India T20I team since his debut against England at Manchester in July. De Villiers expressed admiration for Sooryavanshis strokeplay and urged him to work on his game continuously to play across all formats and conditions. He's absolutely phenomenal to watch. I'm not surprised, to be honest. The next phase for him is to find a blueprint in different formats, in different conditions, realising that every game poses a different challenge, and playing the situation instead of just playing one way or being one-dimensional with his game. I would urge him to keep developing his game. I think he picked up a little bit on when he toured England, and realising that it's not always as easy. You can't just rock up and always hit through the line. Every game is a different situation. My message to him would be to assess every single match he plays, get a feel for what he's confronted with on the particular day, and to respect that whatever his decision is, whether it's a flat wicket and let's go for 60 of 20 balls, or realising, hold on, today is a day where maybe 30 of 20 balls will be okay and set it up for a bit later. He's absolutely phenomenal to watch. I'm not surprised, to be honest. The next phase for him is to find a blueprint in different formats, in different conditions, realising that every game poses a different challenge, and playing the situation instead of just playing one way or being one-dimensional with his game. I would urge him to keep developing his game. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
France held by Italy in Zidane's homecoming after Olise stunner
Michael Olise scored another superb goal but France were held to a 1-1 draw by Italy on Friday in Zinedine Zidane's first home game since being appointed coach of Les Bleus.
Gandhi Jayanti : Verify facts before reacting, LG urges youth
Srinagar, Oct 02: Satyameva Jayatetruth alone triumphsmust remain a guiding principle for democracy, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said on Friday, as he cautioned against misinformation and urged the youth to adopt Mahatma Gandhi's discipline of verifying facts and engaging in dialogue before reacting. The Lieutenant Governor was speaking at the Gandhi Jayanti Celebration organised by the School Education Department in collaboration with the Department of Culture. He extended heartfelt wishes to the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir on the birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, and congratulated children participating in cultural programmes as well as the toppers of the district-level symposium on truth and non-violence. The LG also commended the Kashmiri rendition of Bapu's bhajan by Gulzar Ahmed, the Hindi performance by students of the Institute of Music and Fine Arts, and the skit presented by the Girls Higher Secondary School, Kothibag. Highlighting the significance of October 2, Sinha said it is an occasion to reflect on the life and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi, who gave India a new way of thinking, standing against injustice and living with dignity. He said Gandhi ji's legacy of truth and non-violence continues to hold relevance in today's fast-changing, technology-driven world. I believe that revered Bapu has left behind many priceless legacies for us. He gave us a new method, new principles, a new approach to life and a new system that remains alive in the hands of every generation, he said. The Lieutenant Governor noted that while technology has connected people globally, it also raises questions of inclusivity and truth. Bapu understood the relationship between truth and power very deeply. He called his life an experiment with the search for truth. I believe Truth is a spiritual discipline. Truth is the habit of looking within oneself. Truth is the habit of verifying before believing any fact or information, and truth is the habit of listening and understanding before responding immediately to anything, he said. The LG stressed that technology should remain under human control and serve as an instrument for progress, not a substitute for conscience. I want all children and youth to remember that technology is only an instrument and the decision must remain ours. However powerful the instrument may be, its direction is ultimately determined by the hand that wields it, he said. Underscoring India's strength in diversity, Sinha said unity must be strengthened through everyday actions of justice, respect and compassion. He recalled Gandhi ji's concern for the weakest person in society and urged citizens to measure progress by inclusivity and welfare. Since ancient times, India has been a land of diversities. Our languages are different, our modes of worship are different, our attire and our customs are different. However, our great tradition has taught us that walking together with diversity is India's strength. I believe this philosophy is needed today more than ever, he said. The Lieutenant Governor expressed confidence that Gandhi ji's philosophy will guide India towards the goal of becoming a Developed Nation by 2047. He emphasised the importance of trusteeship, people's participation and character-building in children. To build a Developed India, we must prepare our fields, schools, villages, cities and industries, and above all, we must place special emphasis on character-building in children. Bapu firmly believed that a nation's character is its most permanent infrastructure, he said. We often ask what others are doing? Today, on revered Bapu's birth anniversary, let us also askwhat am I doing to build a developed India? Am I advancing truth or rumour? Am I engaging in dialogue or merely reacting? Am I uniting my country, or unknowingly dividing it? This alone will be a true tribute to the life-philosophy of Pujya Bapu, the Lieutenant Governor said. Sakeena Masood Itoo, Minister for Health & Medical Education, School & Higher Education and Social Welfare Departments; Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Padma Bhushan Rajeev Sethi; Padma Shri Dr S.P. Varma, President Gandhi Global Family, J&K; Ram Niwas Sharma, Commissioner Secretary, School Education Department; senior officials, prominent citizens, heads of educational institutions, teachers and students attended the celebration.
Preethi Munde Felicitated For Winning Miss Earth Water India-2026 Title
Speakers said the achievement was significant for Preethi Munde, who hails from Heerapur village in Indravelli mandal, and appreciated her confidence and commitment towards her goals.
India Aims to Become a Top-5 Shipbuilding Nation by 2047, Says Sonowal
Union Minister Sonowal emphasizes Indias goal to boost shipbuilding and maritime self-reliance by 2047 during a shipping event in Mumbai. India Aims to Become a Top-5 Shipbuilding Nation by 2047, Says Sonowal
Adani Group has announced plans to invest over 6 lakh crore in Maharashtra across multiple sectors. The investments are aimed at aiding Maharashtra's goal of becoming a $1 trillion economy by 2030. The group has committed to significant infrastructure projects, including the management of Mumbai's airports and renewable power sourcing. Additionally, the Dharavi Redevelopment Project will transform the area with modern housing and economic opportunities.
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 3 (IANS) Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey described India's women's hockey gold at the Asian Games as a 'perfect game' and praised the team's defensive resilience in their 1-0 victory over China, which ended a 44-year wait for the continental title and secured qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. India last won the women's hockey gold at the Asian Games in 1982 in New Delhi. Lalremsiami's 10th-minute goal proved decisive in Friday's final, while Savita Punia produced a crucial penalty-stroke save to preserve India's lead against a relentless Chinese attack. As you said, after 44 years, the women's hockey team has won a gold medal. For the first time in 1982, the women's team won a gold medal in New Delhi. Since then, the women's hockey team has created a great history, Tirkey told IANS. Tirkey said the women's team has continued to raise its level despite traditionally attracting less attention than the men's side. Normally, we expect a lot from men's hockey. All our hockey lovers and sports lovers. But we don't expect a lot from women. The women's team is playing very well. They have played in the Asian Games. Before that, they have played in the World Cup. Excellent game, he said. India's final against China was particularly demanding, with the defending champions controlling large periods of possession and creating repeated opportunities. Tirkey said India showed composure against one of the strongest teams in the world. I have also seen the final match. It was a perfect game. China is one of the best teams in the world. They have also been the champion team of the Asian Games. In 2024, they were the silver medalists in the Paris Olympics, and we scored against them in just 10 minutes and then defended for 50 minutes, he said. They have strengthened the defence until the end and were in a very strong position in defence. India was playing as a team, he added. Savita's penalty-stroke save came at a critical stage of the match and allowed India to retain their one-goal cushion. Tirkey felt the goalkeeper's intervention gave the team further belief to see out the contest. I have also seen that China got a stroke. Savita Punia has stopped it by diving to the left side. She has put confidence in the team. It was a very interesting match, he said. India's gold also came after a challenging period for the squad, with Tirkey revealing that injuries had affected a large number of players earlier this year. I am happy that the women's team's performance is improving day by day. Especially the young girls have shown excellent hockey, he said. In the last 6-7 months, the team's performance has improved a lot. We were very worried. 13-14 players were injured 6-7 months ago. They were suffering from injuries. We recovered very fast, Tirkey added. Tirkey also credited the Hockey India League with helping players develop through high-level competition. The women's competition returned alongside the men's tournament, giving Indian players another platform to compete and gain experience. HIL has been organising the Hockey India League for two years. We have seen the impact of it. HIL is one of the best leagues in the world. Men's or women's. They have also benefited from the Hockey India League, he said. India's Olympic qualification was another major takeaway from the victory, and Tirkey said Hockey India would use the extended preparation period to support the team. Most importantly, they have qualified for the Olympics. They will get a lot of time for practice. We will try to provide what is needed from Hockey India, he said. Tirkey also praised the coaching and support staff behind the campaign. I would like to congratulate the coaching team. They have been performing very well since they took charge. I would like to congratulate all the supporting staff. I would like to thank them personally. All of them are working very hard for the team. I would like to congratulate the players as well, he said. Hockey India has also decided to reward the women's team for their gold-medal-winning performance. We decided to award 11 lakh rupees to each player of the women's team. We decided to award 5.5 lakh rupees to the supporting staff, Tirkey said. Tirkey said he had spoken to Savita after the match and praised the goalkeeper for her decisive intervention. I talked to Savita. She was very happy. Her stroke was a big save. I think she deserved the win. She deserved it. It was an excellent game, he said. The men's team will now look to complete a hockey double when they face Malaysia in the Asian Games final on Saturday. The men's gold-medal match also carries Olympic significance, with the Asian Games champions earning direct qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Games. Tirkey said the women's triumph could provide an additional boost to the men's side ahead of their title clash. I have expectations for the country. I think our men's team will be inspired by today's game. I am confident that we will win tomorrow's game. We will qualify for the Olympics, he said
Vizag Youth Divided Over Mandatory Military Training
Academics say although discipline and national preparedness are desirable goals, any compulsory military training would require extensive public consultation: Reports
Former GOP Rep. David Rivera gets 10 years for secret Venezuela lobbying
MIAMI (AP) A former Miami congressman and longtime friend of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio was sentenced Friday to 10 years in prison in connection with a secret $50 million lobbying campaign on Venezuelas behalf during the first Trump administration. Republican David Rivera has been jailed since jurors found him guilty in May on all counts, including failing to register as a foreign agent and conspiracy to commit money laundering as part of his work for former Venezuelan President Nicols Maduro s government. Rivera, 61, appeared stone-faced as Judge Melissa Damian denounced him for betraying his lifes mission, saying he would surely have been judged harshly his many friends had the millions of dollars come from the Cuban regime instead of its allies in Caracas. Nobody would accept thats ok and I dont think this is different, the judge said. Theres no dispute this money came from the Maduro regime. The seven-week trial offered a rare glimpse into Miamis role as a crossroads for foreign influence campaigns aimed at shaping U.S. policy toward Latin America, highlighting the citys reputation as a magnet for both anti-communist crusaders and corruption among its sizable exile population. It included testimony from President Donald Trumps secretary of state, Rep. Pete Sessions of Texas and a top Washington lobbyist all of whom testified they felt betrayed when learning of Riveras mammoth consulting contract with a U.S.-based affiliate of Venezuelas state oil company, PDVSA. Attorneys for Rivera plan to appeal and in June applied for a presidential pardon. Rivera faces additional federal charges in Washington, D.C., in a related foreign lobbying case. Prosecutors said betrayal featured coded figures Sombrero and Miss Clairol In an indictment unsealed in 2022 , prosecutors alleged that Rivera was tapped by then Foreign Minister Delcy Rodrguez now Venezuelas acting president to work Republican connections to get the first Trump administration to abandon its hard line and crippling sanctions on Venezuela. As part of the charm offensive, Rivera and a co-defendant, political consultant Esther Nuhfer, sought to manipulate influential friends, including Rubio and Sessions . Their goal was to normalize relations with the new Trump administration even as the Maduro government faced sanctions over serious accusations of human rights violations. But Rivera and Nuhfer didnt disclose their lobbying work as required, for fear it would have ended Riveras political career as an anti-communist stalwart, prosecutors argued at trial. The United States and the public were the true victims of this fraud, Assistant U.S. Attorney Roger Cruz said in urging a stiff sentence. He used his position of trust and betrayed it consistently and repeatedly. To hide his work, prosecutors allege, Rivera also set up an encrypted chat group called MIA for Miami with his main conduit to the Maduro government: Venezuelan media tycoon Ral Gorrn, who was subsequently charged in the U.S. with bribing top Venezuelan officials. Members of the group used playful code words to discuss their activities: Maduro was the bus driver, Sessions Sombrero, Rodrguez The Lady in Red, and their windfall payments La Luz, Spanish for The Light, according to copies of text messages presented to the jury. Rubio was known as Miss Clairol, because rubio means blond in Spanish. Defense said only missing paperwork made the $50 million contract illegal At Fridays sentencing, attorneys for Rivera repeated their trial argument that the former congressman believed he was under no requirement to disclose the work. The three-month, $50 million contract with Riveras one-man consulting firm, they said, was focused on luring oil giant ExxonMobil back to Venezuela commercial work that is generally exempt from the Foreign Agents Registration Act. David Rivera does not deserve to die in prison because he failed to file a FARA registration, defense attorney Ed Shohat said at Fridays hearing. If he had filed that paper, that form, everything he did, including the $50 million contract, which totally distorted this case, is perfectly legal. Wholly distinct from that consulting work, they say, were Riveras meetings with Rubio and Sessions, which were focused on ushering in leadership in Venezuela that would be less hostile to the U.S. not supporting Maduro in normalizing relations with the U.S. Theres not one word in any chat, not one document, not one thing he did to help Nicols Maduro, said Shohat. Prosecutors said Rivera used the contract with the affiliate, New York-based PDV USA, as cover for illegal lobbying. This is a classic money laundering case, the judge said Friday in rejecting Riveras motion to lower the federal guidelines range. Where did the money go? A luxury yacht, among other things The partners tried to hide the work backdating documents and coming up with sham agreements, like one to justify a wire transfer of $3.75 million to a South Florida company that maintained Gorrns luxury yacht, prosecutors said. The political activity included setting up meetings for Rodrguez in New York, Caracas, Washington and Dallas. As part of the effort, Rivera roped in Sessions, who later tried to broker a meeting for Rodrguez with the ExxonMobil executive who took over as CEO when Rex Tillerson became Trumps first-term secretary of state . After a secret meeting in Caracas with Maduro, Sessions also agreed to deliver a letter from the Venezuelan president to Trump. The outreach quickly unraveled, however. Within six months of taking office, Trump sanctioned Maduro and labeled him a dictator, launching a maximum pressure campaign to unseat the president. And now, nearly a decade later, Rodrguez has emerged as the second Trump administrations trusted partner after the U.S. militarys ousting of Maduro. Rubio's former housemate faced scandal before, but Cuban Americans support him Before being elected to Congress in 2010, Rivera was a high-ranking Florida legislator and shared a Tallahassee home with Rubio, who eventually became the Florida House speaker. Rivera faced earlier controversy, including allegations that he secretly funded a Democratic spoiler candidate in a 2012 congressional race. Last year, federal prosecutors dropped that case after an appeals court threw out a sizable fine imposed by a lower court. Rivera was also investigated but never charged for alleged campaign finance violations and a $1 million contract with a gambling company while serving in the Florida Legislature. Despite all that, Rivera remains popular among Miamis Cuban American establishment. Friends of the former congressman, including the former president of Florida International University and Miami-Dade Countys supervisor of elections, packed the courtroom to show their support. Sessions, in a letter seeking leniency that was read into the record by his chief of staff, said his former congressional colleague devoted decades to public service, much of it focused on defending liberty and democracy. I dont think its productive for society by sending David away for a long, long time, testified Liliana Ros, a longtime Miami GOP committee member. This article originally appeared on Associated Press at https://www.yahoo.com/news/politics/articles/former-gop-rep-david-rivera-182044649.html
Asian Games: 'Proud Moment For Indian Sports', Says Harmanpreet Kaur After Women's Hockey Gold
Los Angeles Olympics: India women's cricket team captain Harmanpreet Kaur congratulated the Indian women's hockey team on its gold medal in Asian Games 2026 and qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, describing the triumph as a proud moment for Indian sports. The Indian hockey team ended a 44-year wait for the Asian Games women's title after defeating defending champions China 1-0 in the final on Friday. Lalremsiami scored the decisive goal in the 10th minute, while captain Savita Punia produced a crucial penalty-stroke save as India held on to secure the gold and the LA 2028 berth. Proud moment for Indian sports! Heartiest congratulations to our Indian Womens Hockey Team on winning Gold at the Asian Games and qualifying for the LA Olympics! Mazaaaa aa gaya kudiyo, Harmanpreet wrote in a post on Instagram. Your hard work, resilience, and determination continue to inspire millions. Wishing you all the very best for the journey ahead. Keep making India proud! Chak De India! she added. Harmanpreet's message came after the Indian women's cricket team themselves won gold at the ongoing Asian Games, adding another women's team title to India's campaign in Aichi-Nagoya. The cricket team defeated Sri Lanka by 147 runs in the final to claim the gold medal, with Smriti Mandhana scoring 79 as India posted 216/3 before restricting Sri Lanka to 69/8. For the hockey team, the victory marked only their second Asian Games gold and their first since 1982, when the women's competition made its continental debut in New Delhi. India had topped Pool A with four wins before defeating Japan 7-2 in the semi-finals. They then produced a disciplined defensive display against China, with Lalremsiami's early strike proving decisive. Savita's penalty-stroke save emerged as another defining moment as India protected their narrow lead against sustained Chinese pressure. India had topped Pool A with four wins before defeating Japan 7-2 in the semi-finals. They then produced a disciplined defensive display against China, with Lalremsiami's early strike proving decisive. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Is 1.5 crore enough for retirement? A new NPS survey reveals the truth.
People's interest in the National Pension Scheme (NPS) is growing significantly. However, people's retirement savings goals are still low. So, is it worth saving 1.5 crore?People trust the NPS scheme the most.People save money to ensure they can live their lives as they did before retir...
Delhi BJP chief slams AAP, CJP for flop protests
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 2 (IANS) Delhi BJP President Harsh Malhotra on Friday attacked the AAP and the Cockroach Janta Party for staging a drama at Jantar Mantar and in Mumbai in the name of Protecting the Right to Vote. He said the gathering was not about safeguarding democracy but an attempt to conceal the Aam Aadmi Partys (AAP) potential defeat in the upcoming Punjab Assembly elections. In Delhi, the AAP staged a protest in collaboration with some communist parties, he said. Neither the youth of Delhi nor ordinary citizens turned up. The gathering consisted of only 500600 AAP workers and leaders. They assembled without permission, obstructed traffic, disrupted metro services, and then started crying that democracy is in danger, he said. These are the very people who indulged in corruption in Delhi for 10 years, were involved in the liquor scam, and are now levelling allegations against the Election Commission out of fear of defeat, he said. In Mumbai, some students staged a protest under the banner of the Cockroach Janta Party, he said, adding that this is the same CJP that was completely rejected by students in college campus elections in Chandigarh and Delhi. After securing zero seats, they are now creating a ruckus on streets, said Malhotra. This circus is being staged to divert attention from the failures of the AAP government in Punjab, unemployment, and the collapse of law and order, he said. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has always stood firm in defending the right to vote. However, the right to vote does not mean that you can spread falsehoods, gather crowds, and attack institutions, said Malhotra. I want to ask the AAP and these fake student organisations: Why has the drug menace not been curbed in Punjab? Why have the youth not been provided employment? he asked. The people of Delhi have rejected you. Now, the country will reject you as well. The BJP stands firmly with the Constitution and democracy, and we strongly condemn these hypocritical protests, said Malhotra. Delhi BJP Spokesperson Praveen Shankar Kapoor said that the AAP leaders' protest alleging vote theft, levelling accusations against the Election Commission over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), and demanding the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar are clear signs of their political frustration. Despite their best efforts, AAP leaders failed to attract the participation of ordinary youth or Delhi residents in today's protest, making the entire exercise a complete failure, he said. The Delhi BJP Spokesperson said that the AAP appears to be facing certain defeat in the upcoming elections in Punjab and Goa, along with the likely loss of its national party status. Frustrated by this prospect, AAP leaders are now blaming the Election Commission and fabricating excuses to conceal their anticipated electoral defeat in both states, he said. It would be better for AAP leaders to focus on curbing corruption within their own government in Punjab instead of blaming the Election Commission, he said.
By Vipul Kashyap Following India's landmark Asian Games women's hockey gold medal win, Indian hockey star Navneet Kaur expressed happiness at her team's win, saying that the team was ready for every possible scenario and is really relieved to have achieved a direct ticket to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics given the difficulties that come with playing in qualifiers. The Indian women's hockey team produced a historic performance on Friday, defeating reigning Asian champions China 1-0 to clinch the gold medal and end a 44-year wait for an Asian Games medal in Aichi-Nagoya. Ranked No. 8 in the world, India stunned World No. 4 China in a fiercely contested final, with Lalremsiami scoring the decisive goal in the 10th minute through a field goal. The triumph marks India's first women's hockey medal at the Asian Games since 1982, when the team last stood on the podium. Speaking after the medal win, Navneet told ANI about the medal win that it is everyone's dream to secure a medal at the Olympi...
Even when AI behaves just like us, people still rate it as less conscious than humans
Stories about AI systems deceiving users, cooperating with one another or pursuing their own goals increasingly invite us to talk about them as if they had minds of their own. But do people really believe that AI is conscious? A new LMU study suggests that they draw a surprisingly sharp line between intelligent behavior and consciousness.
When and where to watch India vs Brazil FIFA friendly: know all details
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 2 (IANS) India will take on five-time world champions Brazil in a historic international friendly at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on Saturday, with the match set to kick off at 7:30 PM IST. The highly anticipated encounter will be the first time the senior mens national teams of India and Brazil face each other, with the Blue Tigers set to come up against the highest-ranked opposition they have faced since the FIFA Mens World Ranking was introduced. Brazil currently occupy fifth place in the FIFA rankings, while India are ranked 138th. The Seleos ranking surpasses the previous record of ninth-ranked Russia, whom India faced in 1995, and Japan, also ranked ninth when the teams met in 1998. India head into the landmark fixture with confidence after holding 44th-ranked Panama to a 1-1 draw last Friday. Ryan Williams put India ahead before Khalid Jamils side defended resolutely to secure a result against a top-50 opponent for the first time. Brazil, meanwhile, arrive in India unbeaten since their 2026 World Cup campaign ended with a 2-1 round-of-16 defeat to Norway. Under head coach Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil have recorded 11 wins, four draws and four defeats in 19 matches, scoring 41 goals and conceding 18. The five-time FIFA World Cup champions drew 1-1 with Australia before beating them 4-2 in their second friendly in September. Rayan scored a late equaliser in the first game, while Vanderson, Raphinha, Bruno Guimaraes and Vinicius Jnior found the net in the second. Raphinha, however, will miss the Kolkata friendly because of a thigh injury and has left the travelling squad, reducing Brazils group from 26 to 25 players. Brazil will be making their first senior mens national team appearance in India, although the country has a long association with Indian football. Legendary Brazilian Pele visited Kolkata in 1977 and played for New York Cosmos against Mohun Bagan in an exhibition match at Eden Gardens, which ended in a 2-2 draw in front of more than 80,000 spectators. Brazil will also become only the third CONMEBOL nation that India will face after Peru and Uruguay. India have lost their previous three matches against South American opponents. When: Saturday, October 3, 7:30 PM IST Where: Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata Where to watch: Live streaming on the SonyLIV app and TV broadcast on Sony Sports channels.
Manchester City file appeal against guilty verdict on financial rule breaches
Manchester City have lodged a formal appeal against findings of an independent regulatory commision as they seek to overturn a verdict seeing them being found guilty of violating several Premier League financial rules, reported Goal.com. An independent Commission has found Manchester City guilty of serious breaches of the Premier League
Asian Games: President Murmu hails womens hockey teams magnificent gold medal triumph
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 2 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu on Friday congratulated the Indian womens hockey team for their 'magnificent gold medal triumph' at the ongoing Asian Games 2026, saying their achievement and direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics made the victory even more special. The Indian womens team defeated defending champions China 1-0 in the final at the Gifu Prefectural Green Stadium to win the Asian Games gold for the first time since 1982 and end a 44-year wait for the continental title. Heartiest congratulations to the Indian Womens Hockey Team on a magnificent gold medal triumph at the Asian Games 2026! President Murmu wrote in a post on X. After a long wait, the Gold returns to India through your determination, skill and spirited play, bringing immense pride and joy to the entire nation. Securing direct qualification for the 2028 Olympic Games makes this victory even more special, she added. President Murmu also highlighted the teams impact on young athletes across the country. You are an inspiration to countless young girls across the country. My warmest wishes to each one of you for the journey ahead! she wrote. Indias historic triumph was secured through a 10th-minute goal from Lalremsiami, who finished a flowing move involving Salima Tete and Sakshi with a powerful reverse hit. The Indian defence then produced a resolute display to protect the narrow advantage, with veteran goalkeeper Savita Punia making a crucial one-handed save from a penalty stroke to deny China an equaliser. India had topped Pool A with four wins from four matches before defeating Japan 7-2 in the semi-finals. The gold medal also secured their direct qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. The triumph marked only Indias second womens hockey gold at the Asian Games, with their previous title coming in 1982 in New Delhi.
Bengaluru company cheated of Rs 8.1 crore in Goa land deal, ex-councillor held
Odisha Governor Asks Youth to Lead Climate Action at Gen C Conclave
Economic growth and environmental protection are not competing goals but partners, Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati said on Friday, calling on the young generation to drive a clean, smart and climate-resilient development model. Speaking at the third Earth Again Conference 2026, organised by the Sambad Group at the Utkal University auditorium on the theme [] The post Odisha Governor Asks Youth to Lead Climate Action at Gen C Conclave appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Asian Games: PM Modi congratulates women's hockey team on winning historic gold
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 2 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday congratulated the Indian women's hockey team on winning a historic gold in the Asian Games 2026 in Nagoya, which ended a 44-year wait for the yellow metal for the country in the Continental extravaganza. This 1-0 win over China in the final also sealed the Indian women's hockey team a direct berth in the Los Angeles Olympic Games in 2028. A very special moment for Indian Hockey!, the PM wrote in his post on X. The people of India are rejoicing in the success of the Womens Hockey Team, who bring home the coveted Gold at the Asian Games, and that too after over 4 decades. This is the result of outstanding skills and teamwork. Their determination is very inspiring as well. My best wishes to the team for their upcoming endeavours, wrote PM Modi in the post on X put out by the PMO. May this success contribute to Hockeys popularity across the nation, PM Narendra Modi wished. Lalremsiami scored the decisive goal in the 10th minute with a powerful reverse-hit finish as India held their nerve under sustained Chinese pressure to reclaim the continental crown for the first time since 1982. The goal came at the end of a well-crafted attacking move, with Salima Tete providing a precise pass into the circle before Sakshi delivered the ball to Lalremsiami, who unleashed a fierce reverse-hit that flew into the roof of the net, leaving the Chinese goalkeeper with no chance. The Indian team then bravely thwarted numerous attempts at the goal by China and maintained its advantage till the end of the match to secure a memorable win over a rival that had got the better of them in the last couple of matches, including an encounter at the Paris Olympics in 2024. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh too was effusive in his praise for the women's hockey team and called the triumph a golden chapter in Indian women's hockey! A golden chapter in Indian womens hockey! Congratulations to our womens hockey team on a hard-fought victory to win the Asian Games Gold Medal. Lalremsiami Hmarzotes decisive strike and Savita Punias crucial penalty-stroke save reflected the skill, composure and fighting spirit of a team that stood firm when it mattered most, Rajnath Singh wrote in his post on X. After 44 years, India has reclaimed the Asian Games womens hockey title. This historic triumph will inspire generations to carry the Indian hockey legacy forward with renewed ambition. My best wishes to the entire team for the journey ahead, he wrote. The year 2026 has been a great one for the Indian women's hockey team, which secured its best finish in a World Cup by claiming fifth place in the 2026 edition held a couple of months back in Belgium and the Netherlands.
Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey hailed the women's team for their landmark gold medal win at the ongoing Asian Games, pointing out the improvement in their game over last few months and exceptional performances in both attacking and defensive fronts. The Indian women's hockey team produced a historic performance on Friday, defeating reigning Asian champions China 1-0 to clinch the gold medal and end a 44-year wait for an Asian Games medal in Aichi-Nagoya. Ranked No. 8 in the world, India stunned World No. 4 China in a fiercely contested final, with Lalremsiami scoring the decisive goal in the 10th minute through a field goal. The triumph marks India's first women's hockey medal at the Asian Games since 1982, when the team last stood on the podium. Speaking to ANI after the win, Tirkey said, The women have now made history after 44 years. We last won in Delhi back in 1982. As the President of Hockey India, I feel incredibly happy today, seeing the hard work the girls have put in ov...
Asian Games: India womens hockey team win gold, qualify for LA 2028 Olympics
Indias womens hockey team defeated defending champions China 1-0 in the Asian Games final at Kakamigahara, Japan, on Friday, ending a 44-year wait for the gold medal. Lalremsiami scored the decisive goal as India also secured direct qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics
The Gold-Defining Penalty Save: Goalkeeper Savita Punia Rescues India In Final. Watch
India goalkeeper Savita Punia made an incredible penalty stroke save in the Asian Games women's hockey final, resulting in a defining moment towards the team's gold medal.
Asian Games: India end 44-yr wait, women bag hockey gold
Kakamigahara: India ended a 44-year wait for the Asian Games womens hockey gold medal with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over defending champions China in the final of the Aichi-Nagoya Games on Friday, October 2, securing direct qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Lalremsiami scored the decisive goal in the 10th minute with a Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
India goalkeeper Savita Punia made an incredible penalty stroke save in the Asian Games women's hockey final, resulting in a defining moment towards the team's gold medal.
India's Women Hockey Team Ends 44-Year Wait For Asian Games Gold
India's women's hockey team clinched the Asian Games gold medal after 44 years, defeating defending champions China 1-0 in a thrilling final. Lalremsiami's early goal and goalkeeper Bichu Devi's crucial save, coupled with a resilient defence, secured the historic victory and direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
India womens hockey team wins Asian Games gold after 44 years, qualifies for 2028 Olympics
The Indians were at their best in defence as they thwarted relentless Chinese attack thereafter, including a penalty stroke save by veteran goalkeeper Savita Punia.
Lovlina's Parents Overjoyed With Asian Games Gold
Boxer Lovlina Borgohain's parents expressed immense joy and pride after their daughter clinched a gold medal at the Asian Games. They highlighted her hard work and dedication, noting her long-standing goal to upgrade her previous silver to gold. The family also shared Lovlina's future aspirations, including an Olympic gold and upcoming world championships.
Historic gold! India end 44-year wait in women's Asian Games hockey
The Indian women's hockey team defeated defending champions China 1-0 to win their first Asian Games gold medal in 44 years, securing a direct berth for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Lalremsiami scored the winning goal, and goalkeeper Savita Punia made crucial saves.
There's been some special goals in 2026. The post A definitive list of 2026s Puskas Award contenders as Troy Parrott joins superstar elite appeared first on Planet Football .
For people of todays generation, veteran actor Raghubir Yadav is known as Pradhan ji from the long-running web show Panchayat. Recently, he played a character completely opposite of that in Hunkkaar The Roar. But the actors biggest and first claim to fame was the 1989 Doordarshan TV show Mungerilal Ke Haseen Sapne, directed by Prakash Jha. In an exclusive chat with Bollywood Hungama, when this writer told him that his first memory of him is Mungerilal Ke Haseen Sapne as a kid, Yadav jokingly said, Aap bade ho gaye lekin main abhi bhi chhota hi hoon (laughs). On a more serious note, he said, Back then, I had just passed from NSD (National School of Drama). I then went to the Repertory Company. After leaving from there, I did Massey Sahib (1986), which was my first film. Then I got this serial (Mungerilal Ke Haseen Sapne). I realized that there was a lot to do for an actor while playing this character. So, I accepted it. Recalling the work culture of the old Doordarshan days, Yadav said, Everyone was working sincerely on the show. I enjoy working sincerely and this is also my weakness. In those days, there was a lot of hard work put in in every department. There were only 26 episodes of Mungerilal but people still remember the show. The reason for this is that everyone used to work unitedly as a team. Director, writer and others used to work together. There wasnt an atmosphere of business back then. Yadav pointed out that the situation worsened later on when daily soaps came into the picture. Later, a lot of channels came in, he said. People started factories of TV shows. The whole situation started worsening. They started factories and started selling products. There was no proper culture. I have seen all of that. Yadav has played various characters in his decades long career. About his selection criteria over the years, he said, It should be something I have never done before. It should challenge me. I dont enjoy if I am able to do it easily. It should give me sleepless nights (laughs). Doobne mein maza aata hai mujhe. When asked how he looks back at his enormous journey of over four decades, the veteran said, I just kept on learning. I didnt think about reaching any goal because once you achieve it, its the end for you. I just felt like learning and having fun with it. Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Raghubir Yadav says it was very painful to play an evil Godman in Hunkkaar: Sometimes, one should play characters that are
Asiad Hockey Final LIVE: India 1 Quarter Away From Gold After Goalkeeper's Penalty Save
India vs China LIVE Score, Asian Games 2026 Women's Hockey IND vs CHN LIVE Updates: India are two quarters away from the Asian Games gold medal, as they lead 1-0 against China at half-time.
Mbappe, Haaland and Kane are at the top, unsurprisingly. But in what order? The post The top goalscorers for club & country in 2026 so far: Kane, Yamal, Mbappe, Raphinha appeared first on Planet Football .
LG Sinha Attends Gandhi Jayanti Celebration
Srinagar, Oct 2: The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha today attended the Gandhi Jayanti Celebration organised by the School Education Department in collaboration with the Department of Culture. He extended heartfelt wishes to the citizens of Jammu Kashmir on the birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation, Pujya Mahatma Gandhi and congratulated children participating in cultural programmes as well as the toppers of the district-level symposium on truth and non-violence. The Lieutenant Governor also commended the Kashmiri rendition of Bapus bhajan by Shri Gulzar Ahmed and the Hindi performance by students of Institute of Music and Fine Arts and the skit presented by the Girls Higher Secondary School, Kothibag. Highlighting the significance of 2nd October, the Lieutenant Governor said it is an occasion to reflect on the life and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi, who gave India a new way of thinking, standing against injustice and living with dignity. He emphasized that Gandhi jis legacy of truth and non-violence continues to hold relevance in todays fast-changing, technology-driven world. I believe that revered Bapu has left behind many priceless legacies for us. He gave us a new method, new principles, a new approach to life and a new system that remains alive in the hands of every generation, he said. The Lieutenant Governor noted that while technology has connected people globally, it also raises questions of inclusivity and truth. He cautioned against misinformation and urged the youth to adopt Pujya Gandhi Jis discipline of verifying facts and engaging in dialogue before reacting. He reiterated that Satyameva Jayate truth alone triumphs- must remain a guiding principle for democracy. Bapu understood the relationship between truth and power very deeply. He called his life an experiment with the search for truth. I believe Truth is a spiritual discipline (sadhana). Truth is the habit of looking within oneself. Truth is the habit of verifying before believing any fact or information and truth is the habit of listening and understanding before responding immediately to anything, he said. The Lieutenant Governor stressed that technology should remain under human control and serve as an instrument for progress, not a substitute for conscience. He called upon children and youth to use modern tools responsibly while staying rooted in human values. I want all children and youth to remember that technology is only an instrument and the decision must remain ours. For however powerful the instrument may be, its direction is ultimately determined by the hand that wields it, he said. Underscoring Indias strength in diversity, the Lieutenant Governor said unity must be strengthened through everyday actions of justice, respect, and compassion. He recalled Gandhi jis concern for the weakest person in society and urged citizens to measure progress by inclusivity and welfare. Since ancient times, India has been a land of diversities. Our languages are different, our modes of worship are different, our attire and our customs are different. However, our great tradition has taught us that walking together with diversity is Indias strength. I believe this philosophy is needed today more than ever, he said. The Lieutenant Governor expressed confidence that Gandhi jis philosophy will guide India towards the goal of becoming a Developed Nation by 2047. Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has placed before us the blueprint of a Developed India which will be a powerful economy, expand prosperity among the people, expand opportunities, expand dignity and a developed India which will ensure access to justice for every citizen. Pujya Bapu stressed on self-reliance, in which small enterprises of villages play a major role. Hon'ble Prime Minister is working to fulfil those very dreams of Pujya Bapu and the Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign is giving new strength to local products, artisans, small enterprises and our farmer so that they can move forward shoulder to shoulder with the global market, the Lieutenant Governor said. He further emphasized the importance of trusteeship, peoples participation and character-building in children, noting that a nations character is its most permanent infrastructure. To build a Developed India, we must prepare our fields, schools, villages, cities, and industries, and above all, we must place special emphasis on character-building in children. Bapu firmly believed that a nations character is its most permanent infrastructure. We often ask what others are doing? Today, on revered Bapus birth anniversary, let us also ask- what am I doing to build a developed India? Am I advancing truth or rumour? Am I engaging in dialogue or merely reacting? Am I uniting my country, or unknowingly dividing it? This alone will be a true tribute to the life-philosophy of Pujya Bapu, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor called upon the youth to use the unprecedented power of technology with discipline and responsibility. He urged them to build an India that is modern yet compassionate, prosperous yet just, powerful yet sensitive and above all, united. In 2047, when we celebrate the centenary of independent India, we should not measure Indias success only by infrastructure, but also by how many deprived people we have lifted up with others and how many people we have been able to reach out with opportunities, the Lieutenant Governor said. Ms Sakeena Masood Itoo, Minister for Health & Medical Education, School & Higher Education and Social Welfare Departments; Shri Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Padma Bhushan Shri Rajeev Sethi; Padma Shri Dr S.P. Varma, President Gandhi Global Family, J&K; Shri Ram Niwas Sharma; Commissioner Secretary, School Education Department; senior officials, prominent citizens, heads of educational institutions, teachers, and students in large number attended the Gandhi Jayanti celebration.
Jharkhand Government Has No Choice but to Approach Supreme Court: Pratul Shahdev
BJP leader Pratul Shahdev comments on the MMDR Act and the states goal to become Naxal-free within three months. Jharkhand Government Has No Choice but to Approach Supreme Court: Pratul Shahdev
Pooja Hegdes fashion playbook: 5 Looks that go from elegant drapes to statement corsets
Pooja Hegde is defining glam like no other! Whether shes serving pure fashion goals in soft hues or is placing herself in the spotlight with bold colours, she knows her fashion taste is elaborate and appealing! Heres looking at five times she left us in awe with her style. Pastel Drape: Pooja Hegde looked as aesthetic as ever in a soft-bronze-hued tissue drape with a broad golden border and a fully embellished blouse. The actress layered her look with heavy traditional jewellery and simply let the entire volume of her look steal the show. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pooja Hegde (@hegdepooja) Paint it Red: Pooja Hegde looked straight out of a royal frame in an embellished red saree featuring a full corset blouse. The maximalist golden prints added the main-character energy, and Hegde fueled it even more by accessorising her look with a mix of dainty and heavy jewellery, and loosely styled hair. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pooja Hegde (@hegdepooja) In the Tangerines: Tangerine is the colour of the season and Pooja elevates it with a eye-catchy satin outfit that stands out not just for its off-beat colour but also its asymmetrical pattern. The actress lifts the outfits mood by accessorising it with heavy earrings and statement kadas. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pooja Hegde (@hegdepooja) Bling and Dazzle: It is Pooja Hegdes fashion world and she knows it as she stuns in a detailed red corset outfit featuring mirror work and shell work, The actress elevates her look even more by accessorising her look with drop earrings and heavy kadas. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pooja Hegde (@hegdepooja) Multi-coloured Drape: Pooja Hegde stuns in a multi-coloured saree in soft muted tones with embellished details around the edges of the border. Keeping her look simple, the actress accessorised her outfit with heavy earrings and understated kadas. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pooja Hegde (@hegdepooja) Which of these looks are you adding to your wardrobe next! Also Read:From Golden Lehengas to Silver Sarees: 6 times Pooja Hegde turned heads in traditional wear
'Opportunity to forget past mistakes': SP chief welcomes those willing to defeat BJP
Digital Desk | Lucknow, Oct 2 (IANS) Samajwadi Party (SP) President Akhilesh Yadav on Friday said he would welcome leaders from rival camps, willing to join the opposition's efforts to defeat the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), into his party, saying that elections are a time to forget past mistakes. Interacting with reporters here, the SP chief said: This is the time for Rajya Sabha elections, and elections are a time for coming together. It offers an opportunity to forget past mistakes, stand with others, and stand up for principles. If anyone feels that our democracy, our Constitution, and our country's economy are under attack, due to rising inflation, E20 being blended into petrol -- if they believe these are wrong decisions (by the Centre), then...it is a time to come together before the Rajya Sabha and (Assembly) elections. That is why we should forget all bitterness during this time, he added. Those who have been deviated from their path, those of our friends who want to join us...we will forget everything that took place in the past. Akhilesh Yadav also came out in support of the INDIA bloc's proposed 'Save Democracy' march even as the BJP-led NDA continues to criticise him for skipping the opposition alliance's recent meeting in New Delhi. Everyone should unite to 'Save Democracy'. Together, we must come forward to save this beautiful country, its rich history of democracy, and our Constitution, he said. He also launched an attack on Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led government over flooding issues being faced by those residing in areas near the Gomti River. I am saddened by the fact that many families living along the banks of the Gomti River are facing a crisis. There has been waterlogging in the area for months. This government is asleep. Those who wanted to create smart cities and clean the rivers ended up cleaning out the budget, but the rivers remain uncleaned, he said. On Gandhi Jayanti, Akhilesh Yadav underlined that Mahatma Gandhi showed us the path of truth, non-violence and taught us the spirit of sacrifice. Father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi ji worked towards fostering goodwill, brotherhood, and mutual love in society, and he forced the British to leave India. Today, on his birth anniversary, as we remember Mahatma Gandhi ji's contributions, we take a resolve to work towards fulfilling his goal -- to ensure that the last person, the poorest person, is connected to the mainstream, he said.
National Workshop on SDG Budgeting Held in Kolkata to Enhance Sustainable Development Goals
A national workshop on SDG budgeting was held in Kolkata, aimed at aligning state budgets with sustainable development goals. National Workshop on SDG Budgeting Held in Kolkata to Enhance Sustainable Development Goals
Goa vs Bali: Why An Indian Traveller Says A Foreign Holiday Is Cheaper Than Goa
By comparison, he said a similar luxury resort stay in Bali, Vietnam or Krabi could cost around Rs 40,000 to Rs 60,000 for five nights.
Asians Games: Indian men eye historic back-to-back hockey gold against Malaysia (Preview)
Digital Desk | Kakamigahara, Oct 2 (IANS) One win away from history, the Indian mens hockey team will return to action on Saturday with the biggest prize of the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games 2026 in sight. After a thrilling semi-final win against arch-rivals Pakistan, the defending champions now face Malaysia in the gold-medal match, knowing that victory would not only bring another Asian Games title but also secure qualification for the LA 2028 Olympic Games. India have never won successive Asian Games gold medals, making Saturdays final a chance to write a new chapter in the teams history. Standing in their way are Malaysia eyeing their maiden Asian Games gold. Like India, they too have remained unbeaten throughout the competition and topped Pool B with five consecutive victories. The two teams arrive at the final after tough outings in their respective semi-finals. India looked firmly in control against Pakistan after establishing a 3-0 lead, but Pakistan fought their way back into the contest and levelled the score at 3-3. With the match seemingly heading for a shootout, India scored the decisive goal in the last minute of regulation time to seal a dramatic 4-3 victory and book their place in the final. The comeback will, however, offer India plenty to reflect on during the short turnaround. The defending champions will look to tighten up defensively and eliminate the small lapses that allowed Pakistan to claw their way back into the match. With only a day between the semi-final and the gold-medal clash, recovery, composure and attention to detail will be equally important. Malaysia, meanwhile, also had to dig deep to reach the final. They were pushed hard by South Korea before eventually holding their nerve to secure a 2-1 victory. The result earned them a place in their second Asian Games final in the last three editions and underlined their ability to stay composed when the margins are fine. Malaysia have done well, had a good tournament so far, so its going to be a nice match-up, said Indias chief coach, Craig Fulton. We havent played Malaysia for quite some time; I think the last time was at the Asian Champions Trophy in Chennai. Two nice attacking teams, lots of skill, lots of flair, lots of speed. Fulton added that he wants his team to focus only on the job at hand and not think too far ahead. We want to focus on just our own game plan, put our proactive mindset into the game and leave it all out there on the pitch, said the Chief Coach. India will once again look towards captain Harmanpreet Singh to lead from the front. The skipper has been central to Indias attacking output, scoring 10 goals from penalty corners and sitting second in the tournaments scoring charts behind Pakistans Sufiyan Khan. Strikers Abhishek and Dilpreet Singh have also made significant contributions, with nine goals each. Malaysias attacking threat is similarly built around two experienced goal-scorers. Veteran Faizal Saari and Abu Kamal Azrai have both found the target nine times and will be key players for the Malaysian side in a final where every opportunity could prove decisive. For Harmanpreet and Manpreet Singh, the occasion carries an added personal significance. A victory would make Harmanpreet the first Indian captain to lead the mens team to two Asian Games gold medals. Manpreet, the most capped Indian hockey player, can set another record by becoming the only Indian to win three Asian Games gold medals, having already been part of the triumphant teams in 2014 and 2023. Yet, the final presents a different challenge than everything that has come before. An Olympic qualification spot and an Asian Games gold medal are both at stake, bringing with them a unique level of pressure. India will need to draw on their experience, stay disciplined and embrace the occasion.
Actress Shivaleeka Oberoi took to social media on Thursday, October 1, to cheer for her husband and filmmaker Abhishek Pathak as his much-awaited directorial Drishyam The Conclusion arrived in cinemas on October 2. A day before the films release, Shivaleeka shared a heartfelt note along with behind-the-scenes glimpses from the making of the third instalment of the popular thriller franchise. Sharing photos featuring the iconic Salgaonkar house as well as other sets from Drishyam The Conclusion, Shivaleeka reflected on witnessing the filmmakers journey up close. Her post offered a personal glimpse into the hard work and preparation that went into bringing the latest chapter of the story to the big screen. Ive seen the dream, the hard work, the sleepless nights and the heart behind it all. Tomorrow, the world gets to see what Ive been lucky enough to witness, she wrote. Shivaleeka also drew attention to the central theme that has remained at the heart of the Drishyam franchise family. Sharing her confidence in Abhishek Pathaks approach to the story, she added, And if youve watched Drishyam, you already know..when it comes to family, my husband doesnt play around. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shivaleeka Oberoi Pathak (@shivaleekaoberoi) Drishyam The Conclusion brings the long-running story of Vijay Salgaonkar to its latest chapter. Played by Ajay Devgn, Vijay is a middle-class businessman from Goa who has remained at the centre of the police investigation following the disappearance of IG Meera Deshmukhs son. The third instalment comes after the success of Drishyam and Drishyam 2 and is expected to bring the story to its conclusion. While the Malayalam version of the franchise also released its third chapter earlier this year, the Hindi Drishyam The Conclusion is expected to chart a different narrative from its Malayalam counterpart. The film brings back several key members of the cast, including Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran, Ishita Dutta and Rajat Kapoor. The upcoming instalment also expands the ensemble with actors including Jaideep Ahlawat and Prakash Raj. With Drishyam The Conclusion now in theatres, Shivaleekas BTS post gives audiences a glimpse of the world that Abhishek Pathak and his team created before the films release. Also Read: Drishyam The Conclusion mania EXPLODES! Theatres add post-midnight shows BEFORE release; exhibitors asked to match Spider-Man, Dhurandhar The Revenge pricing
Iran war to end very quickly: Trump
Washington, October 2 : US President Donald Trump stated that the war with Iran would conclude very quickly and forecast a sharp decline in oil prices once the hostilities ceased, depicting Tehran as heavily degraded both economically and militarily. Speaking to journalists on reaching Texas and subsequently during a visit to a Peterbilt Motors manufacturing facility in Denton, Trump remarked that Iran faced a decisive choice regarding how the war would resolve. Iran will very soon be ending one way or the other, Trump told reporters. Itll either just say, look, they have 301 per cent inflation. They have no money, they have no currency. Their military has been defeated, their navy is gone, their air force is gone, everything's gone. And, one way or the other, its going to end very quickly. And when that ends, oil prices are going to drop like a rock, he stated. Trump added that Washington might contemplate requesting the release of diesel reserves held by a European nation to help mitigate costs, though he refrained from naming the specific country. Well, we may do that. They have some diesel, but the prices are coming down. All prices are coming down, he noted. While admitting that crude costs remained elevated, Trump contended they stayed lower than the levels recorded during the tenure of former President Joe Biden. The one thing we have is oil is a little high, but oil is much lower than it was for Biden, he said. And we did something that Biden didn't do. Iran will never have a nuclear weapon. Addressing the audience later at the Peterbilt site, Trump repeatedly referenced Tehran and energy markets, asserting that the US had sustained petroleum transit despite the war and Iranian constraints near the Strait of Hormuz. And when that happens, when that ends, which will be very soon, one way or the other, its going to end, either theyll do something very proper and smart or they wont be around very long, Trump said. So one way or the other, its going to be over. And when its over, oil is going to go like that. In the meantime, prices have come way down, oil prices, he added. Furthermore, Trump noted he could not verify Tehran's participation in what a journalist termed an unsuccessful terror plot linked to RAF Fairford in the United Kingdom. I can't say that with confirmation, but its looking like that, Trump stated when questioned about potential Iranian links. Alongside his statements concerning Iran, the US President delivered a broader economic assessment during his Texas visit, asserting that his administration had failed to secure adequate recognition for national economic performance. We have great numbers we're doing a great job of management, Trump stated, highlighting equity markets, pension funds, and capital deployment into new industrial plants while arguing that his government needed to articulate its financial track record with greater efficiency. So I say weve done a bad public relations job, but a great management job and thats more important, he remarked. Preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear capability remains a cornerstone of US policy. The White House has previously outlined that the goals of Operation Epic Fury involve dismantling Tehran's missile infrastructure and manufacturing output, neutralising its naval forces, and stopping it from acquiring atomic weapons. (ANI)
City fans will never forget *that* own goal. The post Jamie Pollock, THAT own goal & how Man City fans earned their stripes appeared first on Planet Football .
Goa: CEO says 88 of 97 left-out voters have filed Form 6, applications accepted
Goa's Chief Electoral Officer confirmed that most excluded voters have applied for inclusion in the electoral roll. Of the 97 excluded, 88 have filed Form 6, while three are Portuguese passport holders. Six others currently reside outside India and are being contacted by officials. A special drive will be launched to enroll left-out eligible and first-time voters in Goa.
New Delhi , October 2 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat on the occasion of his 157th birth anniversary, as leaders and citizens across the country observed Gandhi Jayanti and remembered his message of peace, non-violence and cleanliness. PM Modi reached Rajghat and attended the Sarva-Dharma Prarthana held at Gandhi's samadhi to mark the birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri at Vijay Ghat on the occasion of his birth anniversary. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also attended the Sarva-Dharma Prarthana at Rajghat and paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. CM Gupta also paid tribute to former PM Lal Bahadur Shastri at Vijay Ghat. Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu, Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, and Vice President CP Radhakrishnan also paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat on the occasion. In Jaipur, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at the Rajasthan Secretariat. He also paid tribute to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his birth anniversary. In Gurugram, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini participated in the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and appealed to people to keep the city clean. In Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, a Swachhathon 2026 event was organised on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti as part of the Swachhata Hi Seva programme. On the eve of Gandhi Jayanti, President Droupadi Murmu paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and said his message of peace and non-violence holds vital relevance amid ongoing global conflicts. On behalf of all citizens, I pay my respectful tribute to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, on his 157th birth anniversary, celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti, the President said in her message. According to a release, Murmu said Gandhi's life and ideals are widely respected by the global community and noted that an atmosphere of war and conflict prevails in many parts of the world, affecting all nations. In these circumstances, Mahatma Gandhi's message of peace and non-violence becomes even more relevant, she said. The President said India is advancing towards the national goal of becoming Viksit Bharat by 2047, with priority being given to the values of empathy and inclusion to ensure that no citizen is deprived of the benefits of development. She said the vision reflects the spirit of Mahatma Gandhi's ideal of 'Sarvodaya', based on the principle of the welfare and upliftment of all. On the auspicious occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, let us reaffirm our commitment to building an empowered, developed and Atmanirbhar Bharat through our ethical conduct and active participation, Murmu said. Meanwhile, Union Minister for Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy called for a nationwide 30-day cleanliness drive from Gandhi Jayanti on October 2 to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's birth anniversary on October 31. Speaking to the media, Reddy urged citizens, government and private institutions, educational establishments, NGOs and other organisations to participate in the cleanliness campaign. From Gandhi Jayanti to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's birth anniversary, which is coming up on October 31st, for almost 30 days, everyone should take up this Swachh Bharat campaign program across the country, and an appeal has been made for everyone in the country to become participants, Reddy said. Mahatma Gandhi, also known as Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat. Gandhi Jayanti is observed annually on his birth anniversary. October 2 is also observed as the International Day of Non-Violence after the United Nations designated the day to spread the message of non-violence associated with Gandhi's philosophy. India is also observing the 122nd birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on October 2. Born on October 2, 1904, in Mughalsarai, Uttar Pradesh, Shastri served as the Prime Minister of India from 1964 to 1966. He is remembered for the slogan Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan and for his contributions during the 1965 India-Pakistan war, as well as his emphasis on self-reliance and support for the agricultural sector.
Whoop Promo Codes: 20% Off This October 2026
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Why NIOS may be the flexible learning pathway todays learners need
For students with different goals, interests and timelines, NIOS offers an academic route with greater flexibility and choice
President Murmu, PM Modi pay floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 2 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 157th birth anniversary at Raj Ghat in Delhi, marking Gandhi Jayanti. President Murmu visited Raj Ghat and paid floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. She also remembered the Father of the Nation and highlighted the continuing relevance of his ideals of peace, non-violence, empathy and inclusive development. In a post on X, President Murmu said: On behalf of all citizens, I pay my respectful tribute to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi on his 157th birth anniversary celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti. Gandhiji's life and ideals are widely respected by the global community. Today, an atmosphere of war and conflict prevails in many parts of the world, affecting all nations in these circumstances, Mahatma Gandhis message of peace and non-violence becomes even more relevant, the President added. Our country is advancing towards the national goal of becoming Viksit Bharat by the year 2047. In this journey, priority is being given to the values of empathy and Inclusion to ensure that no citizen is deprived of the benefits of development. This vision reflects the spirit of Mahatma Gandhi's ideal of 'Sarvodaya, based on the principle of the welfare and upliftment of all. On the auspicious occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, let us reaffirm our commitment to building an empowered, developed and Atmanirbhar Bharat through our ethical conduct and active participation, President Murmu said. Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan also visited Raj Ghat and paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on the occasion of his birth anniversary. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat, remembering his contribution and legacy on Gandhi Jayanti. Gandhi Jayanti is observed every year on October 2 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, whose philosophy of truth and non-violence played a significant role in India's freedom movement and continues to be remembered across the world. The tributes at Raj Ghat were held as the nation marked the 157th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and recalled his enduring message of peace, non-violence and welfare of all.
Asian Games 2026: India defeat Pakistan in semi-final of continental event
Abhisheks match-winning goal just 49 secs from final whistle helps defending champions India beat arch-rivals Pakistan 4-3 to scrape into the final; players and coach heave a sigh of relief
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 2 (IANS) Actress Raveena Tandon showered praise on Aafiya Sayed as she marked her entry into films with Prem Keetanu, calling herself the proudest Maasi after watching her niece on screen. The actress took to Instagram to congratulate Aafiya, applauding her dedication and determination in overcoming obstacles while staying focused on her goal. Congratulations @aafiyasayed_ . Love blessings and everything that your heart desires should be fulfilled. I have seen you work hard dedicatedly towards your goal. Obstacles in your way , but never losing focus . Alone, Standing strong, Raveena wrote in the caption. She went on to write: Braving it all for that one opportunity towards the winning post. Today seeing you in your full glory on the screen has made me the proudest Maasi of all. Love you beta and may Eeshwar bestow upon you all the blessings and more. With all our love, Welcome to the movies ,you are here to conquer . #premkeetanu playing at your nearest theatre. #funfilm, Raveena stated. Raveena also praised the performances of Veer Pahariya, Aparshakti Khurana and Nikhil Isht. Excellent performances. @veerpahariya you are too good! @aparshakti_khurana wickedly fantastic. @nickhilist you are too cute and funnyyyyyy! Congratulations. Directed by Apoorv Singh Karki, Prem Keetanu follows a group of college friends navigate heartbreak, family expectations, career challenges and growing up. This comedy-drama follows their journey as they search for love, purpose and success. Talking about Raveena, she was last seen on screen in Ahmed Khans comedy film titled Welcome To The Jungle. The film has a huge star cast including names such as Jackie Shroff, Akshay Kumar, Sanjay Dutt, Suniel Shetty, Arshad Warsi, Paresh Rawal, Disha Patani, Lara Dutta, Jacqueline Fernandez, Shreyas Talpade, Aftab Shivdasani, Mika Singh, Mukesh Tiwari, Zakir Hussain, Yashpal Sharma, Johnny Lever, Rajpal Yadav, Krushna Abhishek, Kiku Sharda, Daler Mehndi, Tusshar Kapoor, and Sayaji Shinde. It is loosely based on the 2005 American film The Producers as well as the 2008 American film Tropic Thunder.
Global Firm Invites IIT, BITS Students For Women In Trading Programme, Check Details
The programme is open to women students pursuing a full-time BTech, BE, Dual Degree or BS Mathematics programme and graduating in 2029. Eligible students must be studying at any of the 23 Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) or at BITS Pilani or BITS Goa.
Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on birth anniversary
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 2 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi on his birth anniversary, recalling his teachings on truth, non-violence, self-reliance and public service. Amit Shah took to the social media platform X and said Mahatma Gandhi did not consider Swaraj merely as the goal of freedom, but the foundation of self-respect and self-reliance. Mahatma Gandhi ji did not consider Swaraj merely as the goal of freedom, but as the foundation of self-respect and self-reliance. With the belief that no nation can become great without being connected to its roots, he established Swadeshi, one's own language, one's own culture and cleanliness as the fundamental philosophy of Indian society, HM Shah said. Gandhi ji taught through his life that when there is devotion in action and purity in thoughts, no goal is impossible. On the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi ji, who gave the message of truth, non-violence and compassion to the entire world, I pay my respectful obeisance to him, he added. Rajnath Singh also paid homage to Gandhi, saying his principles continue to inspire people across the world. On the occasion of the revered Bapu's birth anniversary, we offer our humble respects and respectful homage. By walking the path of truth and non-violence, he gave a new direction to India's freedom movement. His message of peace, tolerance, equality and unity remains a source of inspiration for the entire world, Singh said. He said Gandhi had deep faith in the values of Indian culture and civilisation and presented the strength of India's spiritual and moral heritage to the world. Drawing inspiration from his ideas of Swadeshi, self-reliance and Sarvodaya, we continue to move forward relentlessly. His emphasis on social harmony, cleanliness and public service remains relevant even today. The life and ideals of the revered Bapu inspire us to fulfil our duties towards society and the nation, he said. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also paid tribute to Gandhi on his birth anniversary and extended greetings to the people of the state on the International Day of Non-Violence. On the sacred birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi ji, who walked the path of truth and non-violence to convey the message of freedom to the entire world through indigenous means and non-violence, millions of salutations, CM Yogi said. He added that Gandhis ideals, simplicity and thoughts continue to guide people in building a self-reliant and developed India.
Ronaldo-less Portugal score 4 goals past Denmark as Jesus takes control
Ronaldo-less Portugal score 4 goals past Denmark as Jesus takes control
Nations League: Portugal win in Denmark, Klopp gets first Germany win
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 2 (IANS) Portugal moved six points clear at their group summit after sealing a third win in as many games, while there was a maiden victory for Germany under Jurgen Klopp as UEFA Nations League Matchday 3 kicked off. Portugal beat Denmark 4-2 at Parken in a game where they were ahead three times, saw their opponents respond in the first two matches, and only managed to put an end to the contest near the 90th minute. Joao Cancelo, Goncalo Ramos, Vitinha, and Joao Felix scored the goals in a victory built with efficiency, resilience, and composure in the decisive moments. Portugal maintained their perfect start in a six-goal thriller three of them coming in a breathless 12-minute spell in the first half. Goncalo Ramos was involved in both of the reigning champions' first-half goals, providing the assist for Joao Cancelo's opener before finishing Bruno Fernandes' pass to restore Portugals advantage. Mikkel Damsgaard had equalised in between with a curling effort from a tight angle before threading a superb ball into the path of Rasmus Hjlund for Denmark's second in the 53rd minute. The Selecao regained the lead through Vitinha's near-post header from Fernandes' brilliant ball over the top, before Felix finished off a swift counterattack for his third goal of the campaign and Portugal's third win in as many matches. Germany secured their first victory in this year's UEFA Nations League, giving new head coach Jurgen Klopp his first three points in his third match. The DFB team triumphed 2-0 against Serbia in Munich after a strong performance. Florian Wirtz shone in Klopp's first win as Germany coach at the third attempt. Aleksandar Pavlovic, Nick Woltemade and Serge Gnabry all had good chances, and, although Kosta Nedeljkovic was centimetres from sliding in on the break for Serbia, Tom Bischof got a deserved opener after Wirtz had hit the post. The Liverpool playmaker then sealed victory after the break with a smart drag-back and finish. Elsewhere, substitute Tijjani Reijnders struck an 89th-minute equaliser as the the Netherlands recovered from 2-0 down play out 2-2 draw with Greece. Fresh from maiden victory over Germany, the home side looked set for another famous win after an impressive first-half showing that saw Fotis Ioannidis score one and set up another for Giorgos Masouras, an early replacement for the injured Christos Tzolis. The momentum swung completely after the restart though, a trademark Virgil van Dijk header setting the stage for Reijnders to fire in late on.
Country star Luke Combs says he
Luke Combs revealed his 30-pound weight loss during an elk hunting trip, saying getting healthy has been his main goal as a father of three sons.
Kashmir Marathon : No goal too distant for united India: LG Sinha
Srinagar, Oct 01: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said that through the Kashmir Marathon- Run for Unity, the youth have sent a message that no goal is too distant for a united India. He graced the closing ceremony of the event and commended the enthusiasm and energy of the participants. The Lieutenant Governor said the runners had conveyed that their participation was an investment in a shared future, and their run was not only for themselves but for the new generation of Jammu and Kashmir, which dreams of a better India and for that youth who is working day and night to make Jammu and Kashmir a self-reliant and developed Union Territory. Sinha congratulated all the runners and lauded the Jammu and Kashmir Police for organising the marathon, which has become a symbol of peace, unity and progress in the Union Territory. In his address, the Lieutenant Governor emphasised that the Run for Unity was not merely about speed or endurance, but about the strength of collective resolve and faith. He said that when people walk together, no destination remains impossible and underlined the importance of determination and unity in overcoming challenges. Run for Unity race is not merely the speed of our steps. It is the speed of our resolve and it is the speed of that faith which tells us that when people walk together, no destination remains impossible, he said. Highlighting India's diversity as its greatest identity, the LG said that despite differences in language, tradition, food, and attire, the heartbeat of India remains one. He stressed that unity is India's strength, and when millions of steps move in one direction, even the highest mountains can be crossed. Through the Kashmir Marathon- Run for Unity, youth have sent a message that no goal is too distant for a united India, he said. Sinha urged the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to embrace discipline, fitness and brotherhood and to stay away from drugs. He recalled the success of the 100-day Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Campaign, which empowered thousands of young people through padyatras and civic action programmes. The Lieutenant Governor called upon the youth to become brand ambassadors of the Fit India Movement and contribute to nation-building. He further stated that the real victory of a marathon lies not just in reaching the finish line, but in holding each other's hands and moving forward together. Let us take this resolvethough we may have come from different paths, our destination is one. Our identities may be many, but our national identity is one. Our pace may differ, but our India is one, unbroken, and with the resolve of a Developed India @2047, it is continuously moving forward, he said. This year, more than 6,000 runners in different categories participated in the Kashmir Marathon- Run for Unity. Nalin Prabhat, DGP; Nitish Kumar, ADGP Armed Police; M.K. Sinha, ADGP, CID; senior officers of Police and Civil Administration; prominent sports personalities and youth attended the felicitation ceremony.
Of 97 left out in Goa, 88 are back, 3 others are Portuguese citizens: EC
'Six others are based abroad'
Humanitys greatest leaps have begun with tools that allowed people to do more. The plough increased the farmers strength. The steam engine multiplied human strength. Electricity redefined life. The computer changed how humanity handled information. Now artificial intelligence and robotics are opening another chapter. AI can learn from information, recognise patterns and help generate ideas, while robots can see, move and perform tasks in the physical world. Together, they may expand human capability. This emerging field is being explored worldwide. MIT, Stanford, Carnegie Mellon, Berkeley and the University of Toronto are working on AI, robotics and machines that can learn and act. Oxford, Cambridge, ETH Zurich, EPFL and Imperial College London are also advancing research. Scientists are developing machines that can understand surroundings, learn and work with people. The goal is to create useful tools for everyday challenges. Researchers are exploring how AI and robotics can become more useful. At MIT, Professor Daniela Rus studies robotics and AI, including ways to make machines learn and work with people. At Stanford, Professor Chelsea Finn researches how robots learn through experience. At Carnegie Mellon, Professor Howie Choset develops robotic systems for medicine, manufacturing, disaster response and space. At Oxford, Professor Ingmar Posner studies how robots can learn, adapt and assist people. Their work reflects a broader effort to make intelligent machines increasingly useful in everyday life. This growing field is also reshaping scientific research. AI can examine enormous amounts of information, identify patterns and help scientists explore difficult questions. Robots can assist with repetitive or physically demanding work. Automated laboratories can help scientists conduct experiments with greater speed and precision. Research teams are exploring AI-assisted discovery in medicine, materials and energy. Still, the human role remains central. Technology does not replace curiosity. It gives curiosity new tools to explore, examine and discover. This is where an age of amazing abundance becomes interesting. Abundance does not mean every problem disappears, or every need is automatically met. It means technology could create more useful knowledge, products, services and opportunities. If AI makes certain work easier, more people could benefit. If robots improve particular tasks, production could become more efficient. If machines take on routine work, people could have more space for creativity, curiosity and imagination. An even broader possibility emerges when AI and robotics come together. AI can help robots understand their surroundings, plan actions and learn. Robots can turn digital intelligence into physical action. Better machines can support production and open new possibilities. Each improvement can become the foundation for another. A positive cycle can emerge: better tools create possibilities, and new possibilities inspire better tools. Over time, this could accelerate discovery and widen access to these technologies. Institutions are studying this change. The OECD has examined how AI may affect productivity, skills and employment. The International Labour Organisation has studied how generative AI could change different kinds of work and reshape the tasks people perform. The World Economic Forum has examined how technology is changing work and skills. The next chapter is about what people can do with capable machines. The changing world of work is shaped by both technology and human adaptation. Some tasks may change, some may become automated, and new forms of work may emerge. A researcher may use AI to explore possibilities. An engineer may use intelligent software to develop and test designs. A teacher may use digital tools to support learning. A worker may use a robot to assist with repetitive tasks. The important question is not only what machines can do, but what new possibilities people can create with them. Education remains an important part of adapting to technological change. As machines become better at finding and processing information, acquiring knowledge can involve more than memorising facts. Knowledge, sound judgement, creativity, communication, teamwork and problem-solving will continue to matter. People may also need to develop new skills as technology advances and new areas of knowledge emerge. A strong educational foundation can help people build the understanding and abilities needed to participate purposefully in an evolving technological landscape. India is building capabilities in this field. Under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems, 25 Technology Innovation Hubs have been established across academic institutions, working in areas including AI, robotics and smart machines. IISc Bengaluru, IIT Hyderabad and IIT Delhi are involved in work related to robotics, navigation and machines that can work with people. India is advancing AI research, skills and innovation. These efforts are creating a foundation for intelligent technologies. The greatest possibility may not be a smarter robot or a more powerful AI system. It is time, one of the few resources that cannot be manufactured, stored or recovered. By handling routine and physically demanding tasks, these technologies could give people more room for family, creativity, research, art, learning and community. This is one dimension of abundance: greater access to knowledge, productive capacity, opportunity and time. As intelligent systems advance, they could accelerate discovery, improve precision and help address challenges that once demanded far more human effort. Machines may increasingly do more with less, expanding the possibilities for human activity. The real measure of progress may not be how closely machines imitate human abilities, but how effectively people can use technology to expand what is possible. If intelligent systems contribute to knowledge, productivity, creativity and greater flexibility in daily life, they could open new possibilities in everyday life. That is the defining promise of an age of amazing abundance: more knowledge, greater capability, wider opportunity and more room for human possibility. (The author is a Columnist. Feedback: bakshisuhaib094@gmail.com )
The Dog Bite that should Never Become a Death Sentence
Imagine a child playing outside his home in Kashmir when a dog suddenly approaches and bites him. The wound looks small, there is little bleeding, and the family decides to wait and see. But with rabies, there is no time to wait. One of the worlds oldest and most feared zoonotic diseases, rabies is almost invariably fatal once clinical signs appearyet it is entirely preventable when wounds are treated promptly, and post-exposure prophylaxis is given without delay. With dogs responsible for around 99% of human rabies cases globally, controlling rabies in dogs remains central to protecting people. As the world observed World Rabies Day on September 28, the message for Kashmir is simple: a dog bite should never become a death sentence. Rabies is not merely a medical problem Rabies is often discussed as a problem of human health. In reality, it sits at the intersection of human health, animal health and the environment. A person develops rabies because of an exposure to an infected animal. In India and much of Asia, dogs are the principal source of human infection. Therefore, treating humans after bites is only one part of the solution. Unless rabies transmission among dogs is controlled, the cycle continues. This is why rabies demands a One Health approacha coordinated effort involving veterinarians, human doctors, public-health authorities, municipal agencies, animal welfare organisations, local communities and responsible pet owners. The goal should not simply be to treat more bite victims. The goal should be to prevent those bites and interrupt transmission before people are exposed. Kashmir needs to rethink the stray dog problem In discussions about rabies, free-roaming dogs are often viewed solely as a nuisance or a threat. But simply removing or indiscriminately killing dogs is not a sustainable rabies-control strategy. WHO specifically identifies mass dog vaccination as the most cost-effective way of preventing human rabies by stopping transmission at its source. Kashmir therefore needs a more scientific and humane approach. This should include sustained vaccination of dogs, responsible dog population management, improved waste management, responsible pet ownership, identification and reporting of suspected rabies cases, community education and strong coordination between veterinary and human-health authorities. Vaccination cannot be a once-a-year publicity event. It needs to be a sustained programme with measurable coverage. Similarly, responsible pet ownership must become a social norm. Every dog owner should understand that rabies vaccination is not optional. Vaccinating a pet protects not only the animal but also the family, neighbours and the wider community. The five minutes that can save a life One of the most important messages that must reach every household is what to do after a bite or scratch. Wash the wound immediately and thoroughly with soap and running water for approximately 15 minutes. Then seek medical attention without delay. This simple action can substantially reduce the amount of virus at the site of exposure. Appropriate post-exposure prophylaxis includes wound management, rabies vaccination and, when indicated, rabies immunoglobulin or other recommended biologicals. People should never wait for symptoms of rabies before seeking treatment. Once the virus reaches the central nervous system and clinical disease develops, the outcome is almost invariably fatal. The window for prevention is after exposure but before disease develops. There is also a dangerous tendency to rely on home remedies or traditional practices after an animal bite. Chilli powder, acids, plant substances and other irritants should never be applied to wounds. Such practices do not prevent rabies and can cause additional tissue damage. A bite that looks insignificant can still represent a serious exposure. Children deserve special attention Children are particularly vulnerable because they are more likely to play with dogs, approach unfamiliar animals or fail to report minor scratches to adults. Rabies education should therefore begin in schools. Children should be taught simple rules: do not disturb dogs while they are eating or caring for puppies; do not tease or chase animals; avoid approaching unfamiliar dogs; and immediately inform an adult about any bite, scratch or possible exposure. Parents should also understand that a child may hide a bite because of fear of punishment. A small scratch may be ignored, while the consequences of ignoring rabies exposure can be devastating. Kashmir needs stronger veterinarymedical coordination A rabies-control programme cannot succeed if the veterinary and medical systems work independently. Veterinarians are essential for dog vaccination, animal surveillance, investigation of suspected cases, responsible pet ownership and community education. Medical professionals are responsible for assessing human exposures and ensuring appropriate post-exposure treatment. When a suspected rabies exposure occurs, information should move rapidly between these sectors. This is the essence of One Health:the health of humans, animals and the environment cannot be treated as separate issues. Bhutan has shown that elimination is possible. There is an important reason for optimism this year. On September 4, 2026, the World Health Organisation validated Bhutan as having eliminated dog-transmitted human rabies as a public-health problemthe first country in the WHO South-East Asia Region to achieve this milestone. Bhutan's success was built on mass dog vaccination, dog population management, community participation, integrated human-animal surveillance and strong One Health coordination. This achievement carries an important lesson for Kashmir and the wider Indian subcontinent. Rabies elimination is not a utopian idea. It requires political commitment, sustained vaccination, surveillance, accessible post-exposure treatment and community participation. From awareness to action Every year, World Rabies Day brings posters, seminars, social-media campaigns and public messages. These are valuable, but awareness alone cannot eliminate rabies. Kashmir needs to move from campaign-based awareness to continuous prevention. We need regular vaccination of dogs, accessible and quality-assured post-exposure treatment, better surveillance, responsible pet ownership, scientific dog population management, improved waste management and meaningful community participation. Most importantly, we need to stop thinking of rabies as an unavoidable consequence of living with dogs. It is not. Rabies is preventable. WHO identifies three proven pillars: community awareness, timely post-exposure prophylaxis and mass dog vaccination. The real measure of our success should therefore not be how efficiently we treat people after they are bitten. It should be how successfully we prevent people from being bitten by infected animals in the first place. A child should be able to walk to school without fear. A family should be able to keep a vaccinated dog without fear. A community should be able to coexist safely with its animal population. Kashmir should make that its ambition. Because the ultimate victory against rabies will not be the ability to save someone after a bite. It will be creating a society where that bite never becomes a death sentence. (The Author is Assistant Professor cum Scientist, Dept. of Medicine, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, Punjab. Feedback: dr.abrar79@gmail.com )
