5 Birth dates could finally reach a long-awaited goal as Saturn shifts on August 20, 2026
Saturn's upcoming celestial shift encourages revisiting stalled ambitions. Specific birth dates may find renewed focus on long-delayed personal goals. Practical objectives and unusual ideas could gain momentum after August 20, 2026. Deeply personal dreams and educational pursuits are also highlighted for progress. Leadership aspirations may require demonstrating readiness for associated responsibilities.
Khonmohs Bear Attacks Call for Urgent Action
Bear attacks in Khonmoh within less than 24 hours have once again brought into sharp focus a problem that is no longer occasional, but increasingly routine: the dangerous expansion of human-wildlife conflict into inhabited areas. The injuring of a 57-year-old woman in Shah Mohalla, following a similar attack on a man in Shiv Dakri a day earlier, is not merely a local scare. It is a warning sign. When people living on Srinagars outskirts cannot safely step out near their homes, the matter ceases to be about wildlife alone and becomes one of public safety, administrative preparedness, and environmental mismanagement. Khonmoh, like several other fringe localities around the city, sits at the fragile interface between human habitation and bear habitat. That interface is becoming narrower by the year. Unplanned expansion, shrinking forest cover, pressure on natural feeding grounds, garbage disposal that attracts wildlife, and the disturbance of habitats have all contributed to pushing animals closer to settlements. The result is predictable, and sadly preventable: repeated confrontation between humans and wildlife, often ending in injury, fear, and retaliatory panic. The latest incidents should serve as a wake-up call for the authorities, especially the Wildlife Department, district administration, and local municipal bodies. Residents cannot be left to live in a state of permanent anxiety while official responses remain reactive and episodic. A bear appearing once may be dismissed as an isolated incident. Two attacks in a day indicate a pattern that demands immediate intervention. The first responsibility of the state is to ensure that vulnerable localities are identified, monitored, and protected through a sustained mitigation plan. That plan must begin with better surveillance and rapid response teams. Villagers need emergency contact systems, patrol deployment in high-risk zones, and immediate action when wildlife movement is reported. Awareness campaigns are also essential so that residents know how to respond if bears enter residential clusters, especially during early morning and evening hours when such attacks are more likely. At the same time, the administration must address the causes that draw bears toward human settlements, including unmanaged waste, open dumping sites, and unsecured food sources. But long-term solutions require more than alerts and advisories. The government must invest in habitat conservation, corridor protection, and scientific conflict management. Forest edges cannot be treated as expendable spaces until crisis erupts. If wildlife is losing its natural range, conflict will only intensify. Compensation for victims must also be timely and adequate, not a bureaucratic afterthought. For families like that of Fatima and the injured man from Shiv Dakri, the damage is not limited to physical wounds; it is also emotional and economic. Khonmohs distress should not fade from memory once the immediate news cycle moves on. It should prompt a serious reassessment of how Kashmir manages its shrinking ecological balance. Protecting people and protecting wildlife are not opposing goals. They are linked obligations. The state must act before another attack turns concern into tragedy.
Rushing important tasks can lead to mistakes and unnecessary delays. A careful approach, though seemingly slower, prevents problems that consume more time. Preparation before beginning tasks reduces the chances of failure and makes the journey smoother. Patience allows for better understanding and leads to more favorable outcomes. Efficiency means avoiding mistakes and moving forward with purpose, not just speed.
FIH Men's Hockey World Cup 2026: India Surrender Half-time Lead To Lose 2-4 To England
The Indian side had edged England in possession, holding 51 per cent compared to England's 49, and also registered 11 shots on goal against the opponents' 10
Indian men''s hockey team loses to England 2-4 in World Cup
Nicholas Bandurak put England ahead in the 13th minute but India fought back and took 2-1 lead through goals from captain Harmanpreet Singh (16th) and Dilpreet Singh (24th) in the Pool D match.
ECMSexpanded with nod for31 projects at 7,877crore outlay
To be spread across 10 States including Goa, Gujarat, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand
India Suffer 1st Defeat Of Men's Hockey World Cup 2026, Lose 2-4 To England
India conceded three second-half goals to suffer a 2-4 defeat to the higher-ranked England in their second pool match of the men's Hockey World Cup on Monday.
India Suffer First Defeat Of Men's Hockey World Cup 2026, Lose 2-4 To England In Pool Clash
India conceded three second-half goals to suffer a 2-4 defeat to the higher-ranked England in their second pool match of the men's Hockey World Cup on Monday.
Kharge on dais, Congress sticks to first two stanzas of Vande Mataram at Goa event
Kharge on dais Congress sticks to first two stanzas of Vande Mataram at Goa event
EyePoint's drug for age-related eye disease fails late-stage trial, shares tank 70%
EyePoint's experimental drug Duravyu failed a late-stage trial for a serious eye disease. The company's shares dropped significantly after the disappointing trial results were announced. This failure impacts EyePoint's goal to compete with Regeneron's successful Eylea treatment. Analysts suggest investors will await further study confirmation for the drug's viability. EyePoint plans a new trial and FDA submission for approval in 2027.
Angel Number Day 8/18is best understood as a symbolic opportunity rather than a promise of financial success. For these fiveZodiac Signs, the day's numerological themes may offer a more meaningful reminder than simply waiting for a windfall: recognize your own potential, take purposeful action, and create the momentum that can move you toward your goals.
Hockey WC: Indias 32-year England jinx continues as late goals seal 2-4 defeat
England secured a 4-2 victory over India in their Hockey World Cup Pool D match. India led 2-1 at halftime after goals from Harmanpreet and Dilpreet Singh. England responded strongly in the second half, scoring three times to seal the win. This defeat means India must draw against Pakistan to advance. The result extends India's winless streak against England in the World Cup.
Hockey World Cup: India Go Down to England, Face Stern Pak Test
India faced a 2-4 defeat against England in their second Pool D match of the men's Hockey World Cup. Despite taking a 2-1 lead, India conceded three goals in the second half. This loss puts India in a precarious position, requiring a win or draw against Pakistan in their next match to qualify for the second round.
Junior National Hockey: Key Teams Continue Winning Momentum
Hockey Jharkhand, Hockey Haryana, and Hockey Karnataka extended their winning streaks in the Women Junior National Championship. Karnataka delivered a dominant 9-0 victory over Goans Hockey, with Pearlin Ponnamma AG scoring four goals. Other teams like Hockey Bihar, Delhi Hockey, Hockey Mizoram, Uttar Pradesh Hockey, and Hockey Madhya Pradesh also secured significant wins across various divisions and pools.
World off-track on nearly every food system goal, latest assessment reveals
The latest study from the Food Systems Countdown Initiative (FSCI) reveals the stark reality of where global food systems transformation stands: for most indicators on health, environment, livelihoods, governance and resilience, a vast majority of countries will not meet the internationally agreed 2030 goals. And for some indicators, such as greenhouse gas emissions from food systems, no country in the world is projected to meet the target.
Busy mornings often lead to skipping breakfast and missing protein goals. Actress Soha Ali Khan shares a simple vegetarian oats recipe for rushed mornings. This nutritious and healthy dish takes minutes to prepare and offers essential protein benefits. Pea protein powder, seeds, and nuts boost the nutritional value significantly. This recipe provides a healthy and convenient start to the day.
Cong workers sing 2 stanzas of Vande Mataram at Goa rally; Kharge attacks BJP
During a recent meeting in Goa, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge passionately led a rendition of Vande Mataram, addressing BJP workers who protested against his convoy, alleging disrespect. In response, Kharge challenged the BJP's claims about patriotism, reminding attendees of the party's historical connections to the British Empire. This demonstration came amidst a new directive from the Union home ministry regarding the proper performance of the national song.
BREAKING: U.S., Iran Extend 60-Day Truce Amid Strait Of Hormuz Deadlock, Trump's Nuke Warning
The United States and Iran on Monday reportedly agreed to extend their fragile 60-day ceasefire, according to Al Arabiya, keeping the door open for further negotiations after the original truce period expired. The extension comes amid heightened tensions over Irans nuclear program, sanctions and the ongoing crisis surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. President Donald Trump also issued a blunt warning on Truth Social, declaring that his number one Goal is ensuring Iran cannot obtain a nuclear weapon. Meanwhile, Iran says it has reached an understanding with Oman over a proposed transit route through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial energy chokepoint through which roughly one-fifth of global oil supplies passed before the war. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said preparations had been made for different scenarios, including continued U.S. pressure.
Ukraine takes aim at Russia's economy and morale by attacking online retailer
For over a month, Ukrainian drones have been relentlessly striking warehouses belonging to Russian online retailer Wildberries. This offensive has led to immense destruction worth billions in merchandise and has severely affected supply chains. The primary goal is to frustrate military logistics while exerting economic strain on Russia, leaving countless individual sellers devastated, grappling with financial losses, and highlighting the war's immediate impact on everyday Russian lives.
Hockey World Cup LIVE: Harmanpreet Singh Slams Superb Goal, India Level vs England
India vs England LIVE Score Updates, Men's Hockey World Cup 2026: The second quarter is underway in India's blockbuster Hockey World Cup pool game against England.
CM Omar Felicitates J&K MMA Fighter Owais Yaqoob, Awards Rs 1 Lakh
SRINAGAR , August 17 : Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday felicitated international mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Owais Yaqoob and presented him with a cash award of Rs 1 lakh in recognition of his achievements on the international stage. Yaqoob, a native of Murran village in Pulwama, recently secured a notable victory over Delyan Georgiev at BRAVE Combat Federation 107. Georgiev is a training and sparring partner of UFC champion Ilia Topuria. The victory has further raised Yaqoobs profile in international MMA as he continues to pursue his goal of earning a place in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Born in 1998, Yaqoob began training in Taekwondo and kickboxing around 2012 and went on to win more than a dozen national medals across different martial arts disciplines. He later shifted his focus to MMA and began competing internationally. His professional career started with a setback when he suffered a third-round submission defeat in his debut bout at Matrix Fight Night 11 in New Delhi in 2023. He subsequently travelled to Dagestan, Russia, where he underwent specialised training to strengthen his wrestling and ground game. The training proved fruitful, with Yaqoob returning to competition to record victories in India, Kazakhstan and China. He also became the first fighter from Jammu and Kashmir to compete and win under the BRAVE Combat Federation banner. Beyond his professional career, Yaqoob has contributed to the development of martial arts at the grassroots level. He founded the Lions Den Martial Arts Academy in Pulwama in 2015, where more than 200 young athletes have reportedly received training. The Rs 1 lakh cash award from the Chief Minister recognises Yaqoobs recent international accomplishments and his contribution to promoting martial arts among youth in Jammu and Kashmir. Yaqoob remains focused on his long-term ambition of making it to the UFC and representing India on the worlds biggest MMA stage.
Trump says preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapon remains US' top goal
US President Donald Trump has reiterated that preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon remains the United States' number one goal amid the ongoing conflict with Tehran, despite officials also highlighting energy security and oil price stability
Quote of the day by Hugh Jackman focuses on defining moments, risk, vulnerability and courage. Hugh Jackman says people should look beyond goals and pay attention to situations that test them under pressure. His words suggest that growth can come from taking action, accepting failure, facing others and making decisions when the outcome is not certain.
How AI is helping Goa detect, treat oral cancer patients
How AI is helping Goa detect treat oral cancer patients
Munna Bhai actor Ashwin Mushran's car hits scooter in Goa, 2 injured
Munna Bhai actor Ashwin Mushrans car hits scooter in Goa injured
Odisha Police Crowned FAO Football League Champions, Felicitated by DGP
The Odisha Police football team has emerged as champions of the FAO Football League, organised by the Football Association of Odisha (FAO) and the State Sports Department. In the final held on August 16 at Barabati Stadium, Cuttack, Odisha Police defeated Young Utkal Club 51, showcasing remarkable skill and teamwork. Purushottam Kerketta scored two goals, [] The post Odisha Police Crowned FAO Football League Champions, Felicitated by DGP appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Colombia Defender Jhon Lucumi Moves to Juventus After Impressing at World Cup
Lucumi played almost every minute of Colombia's five games at the World Cup, where the team conceded just one goal, in an opening 3-1 win over Uzbekistan
No. 1 goal is Iran cant have nukes: Trump as US-Iran 60-day deal deadline expires
'Munna Bhai' actor Ashwin Mushran's car hits scooter in Goa
Actor Ashwin Mushran's car was involved in an accident with a scooter in Goa's Quepem village, injuring two persons. A case has been registered against Mushran's driver, and a video of an argument at the scene has gone viral.
GIC Re pushes 50-50 international goal into long term as foreign book shrinks
GIC Re expects it could take three to four years to rebuild its foreign premium to 18,000 crore as softer reinsurance rates reduce premiums earned on the same risks.
Securing the maritime commons: India
Indias maritime tradition is the worlds oldest, with an unparallelled continuity since the Neolithic Age [9th Millenium BCE]. Golbai Sasan, a Neolithic site on the east coast of India in Odisha state, has provided invaluable archaeological evidence of ship-building activities and sea faring forays. During the Sindhu-Saraswati era [3300-1300 BCE], India had developed a mature sea-faring tradition based on maritime trade. The ancient port of Lothal in Gujarat, constructed around 2300 BCE, is an outstanding example of maritime infrastructure. It had docks, tidal locks and jetties for ships. Sophisticated trade networks and infrastructure linked India with contemporary civilizations in Mesopotamia, Egypt and China. Vedic era, texts and archaeological evidence suggest early boat-building activities for coastal fishing and commerce. The Rig Veda mentions about Sataritara or the galley with hundred oars. This sea-faring tradition helped develop cartography and study of monsoon-based sailing, using stars for navigation. This rich maritime tradition was consolidated during the Mauryan Empire (324187 BCE) which institutionalized maritime administration by setting up a Department of Waterways and Navigation, headed by the Navadhyaksha (Superintendent of Ships) who regulated shipbuilding, sea trade, and port operations. Ancient Indias greatest strategic thinker Kautilya, wrote a whole chapter in the Arthashastra dedicated to maritime affairs, underlining its strategic importance. In the post-Mauryan period, Roman records show extensive trade with new ports in southern India. Around 30 inscriptions in Tamil-Brahmi, Sanskrit and Prakrit have been identified inside the rock-cut tombs in Egypt's Valley of the Kings in Luxor, from the 1st and 3rd centuries CE. Indian merchants left graffiti as evidence. Hoards of Roman gold coins have been discovered in various sites in southern India. Government of India The Delhi Sultanate, established by Muslim invaders, maintained limited naval forces, for riverine warfare and coastal operations rather than large-scale oceanic campaigns. The Mughal rulers also continued to maintain a navy primarily for security and support to the territorial military. The focus was inwards for the empires expansion. During the 13th century CE, Indias maritime power and commerce reached a peak during the Pala Empire in East India and the Cholazh empire in South India. Under the Cholazh dynasty [9th --13th century CE], large fleets sailed to Sri Lanka, the Maldives and parts of Southeast Asia, including ports in the Srivijaya Empire in Indonesia, spreading Indian religion and cultural influence in South-East Asia. The advent of the Europeans led to the marginalization of Indias maritime control and commerce. Despite British colonial rule, India retained its shipbuilding tradition and continued to build ships. By the 19th century CE, the British monopolized sea-borne commerce, controlling key ports like Bombay (Mumbai) and Calcutta (Kolkata). India became a source for manpower and material. The Royal Indian Marine [1892 CE)] and the Royal Indian Navy (1934 CE) developed with Indian sailors manning both Navy and Merchant ships. Upon gaining Independence in 1947, India inherited a meagre 33 ships and 538 naval officers to protect a coastline of 7,517 kms, 1,280 islands, 14,500 kms of potentially navigable waterways. Indias geographical location makes it proximate to major Sea Lanes of Communication (SLOCs) in the Indian Ocean. With limited maritime capabilities, India avoided entanglement in the bipolar world order and promoted the concept of the India Ocean as a Zone of Peace. After independence, India gave priority to coastal defence and integration of the Princely States. Burdened with land wars in 1948, 1962 and 1965, India was forced to divert resources to the Army and Air Force at the expense of the Navy. India began gradually rebuilding its maritime sector and shipbuilding industry. As Indias economy grew, more resources were provided to the Navy and development of ports, vital for maritime commerce and national security. By the 1990s, the Indian Navy was deployed for UN peace-keeping operations, evacuations of Indian nationals during the war on Iraq and anti-piracy operations in the Arabian Sea. The Navys blue-water capabilities expanded to support maritime security and international sea-borne commerce, aiming to secure the maritime commons. Currently, the maritime arena faces a wide array of challenges - climate change threats, cyclones, sea level rise, human security challenges such as illegal migration, trafficking, piracy, illegal fishing, pollution and sea-bed mining. The strategic overhang of the maritime factor has driven Indias maritime strategy, providing security to around 90% of Indias sea trade. The ongoing war in Iran has highlighted the effort to weaponization of international shipping channels - Hormuz - in violation of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea III [UNCLOS]. Almost one-third of sailors in the global shipping industry are Indians. Some have lost their lives in the indiscriminate attacks on ships transiting the Hormuz and Bab-al-Mandab. Providing security to international shipping will require diplomacy and dialogue and also a more powerful Navy, to shape a more cooperative geopolitical order. Indias indigenous shipbuilding capabilities have been ramped up. Indias maritime strategy is focussed on the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) which is critical for global trade flows - two-thirds of the worlds oil shipments, one third of its bulk cargo and half of its container traffic. 40 nations are on its littoral having nearly 40% of the worlds population. Despite the importance of the maritime commons, there are limited security structures that can police this space. Naval ships are bound by restrictions to act against offending or rogue merchant vessels. In 2015, India adopted the SAGAR doctrine [Security And Growth for All in the Region]. This strategy seeks to enhance Indias role as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region [IOR] and a first responder in humanitarian and disaster related assistance. India has gone further from SAGAR to MAHASAGAR (Mutual And Holistic Advancement for Security And Growth Across Regions), which extends the maritime domain from the regional and security approach into economic diplomacy, technological connectivity and environmental sustainability and maritime domain awareness. MAHASAGAR aims to support technological connectivity in the Indo-Pacific region, relying on joint Naval exercises, sharing data and encouraging peaceful settlement of maritime disputes, Supporting these policy moves is SAGARMALA which supports port-led development initiative to modernize and build ports and manage the shift to more efficient transport coastal and waterway networks to trigger industrial growth, job creation, and sustainable coastal development. International Maritime Bureau To enable international and regional cooperation to secure the maritime commons, India organized the 2016 International Fleet Review (48 navies participated) and biennial MILAN exercises (47 nations participated in 2024) to build cooperation and interoperability. The IOR is monitored by the Information Fusion Centre [IFC] and naval operations across several maritime theatres have helped in combatting piracy, providing safe passage to international cargo ships humanitarian operations. 28 partner nations and international organizations have joined India in tracking maritime traffic, piracy, and illegal activities in the IOR. This strategic shift bolsters maritime security, utilizing the Indian Navys growing blue water deployments. Joint exercises with different navies for maritime security, like the annual Malabar exercises with QUAD partner countries Australia, Japan and USA are conducted periodically. The Indian Navy has spearheaded maritime diplomacy through capacity building, joint exercises, plurilateral conferences, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and Search and Rescue (SAR) activities [Tsunami and Earthquake]. Big power competition is increasing in the IOR, requiring greater vigilance on maritime security. To avoid conflict, India has advocated A free, open, secure and safe Indian Ocean as a shared goal for securing the maritime commons, as envisaged in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea III [UNCLOS]. Currently, Despite military strikes, commercial navigation through Hormuz remains closed. Iran has weaponized its geography to disrupt one of the worlds most important energy chokepoints, keeping global energy markets under constant pressure and prolonging a worldwide economic shock. Post-Iran war, global power equations will shift decisively to the maritime domain an interconnected world depends on maritime routes, energy corridors, digital infrastructure and financial systems. Nations would now also attempt to control digital nodes, cable landing stations, undersea cable runs, data centres and satellite networks. Amb Pinak Ranjan Chakravarty Eastern Eye Indias comprehensive plan to strengthen its maritime sector was long overdue. India's vast coastline and strategic location in the IOR creates vulnerabilities and exposes it to maritime security threats. Indias maritime reforms and modernization drive mark a pivotal step toward achieving Maritime India Vision 2030 and aligning with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and Sustainable Development Goals 14 India has tasked its Navy through Operation Sankalp, to provide escorts for merchant vessels, conduct maritime surveillance across the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden, and protect sea lines of communication [SLOC] vital to Indias economy and energy security. India will have to undertake autonomous actions and where ever possible and synchronize actions to secure SLOC. Operation Sankalp is focussed on protecting Indian shipping, preserving freedom of navigation for Indias supply lines and avoiding any regional involvement. Indias policy of strategic autonomy precludes joining any formal coalitions, keeping diplomatic channels active with individual countries in the conflict region. To upgrade its capacity to secure the maritime commons, India is addressing infrastructure gaps, sustainability challenges, workforce inequities and building a truly blue water Navy, with nuclear deterrence capabilities. India aims to become a global maritime hub and a leading maritime power in the next 2-3 decades, to enable it to play a significant player in ensuring the security of the maritime commons. **** [The author, a retired diplomat, served as secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. Earlier, he served as Indias High Commissioner to Bangladesh and Ambassador to Thailand.]
SC refuses to alter ECI's decision to keep 2002 base year for Sikkim SIR
The Supreme Court on Monday refused to interfere with the Election Commission of India's decision to fix 2002 as the base year for the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Sikkim. A bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana dismissed a PIL filed by 'Sikkimese Mulniwasi Surakacha Sangh', an NGO, seeking a direction to the poll panel to consider 1993 as the base year instead of 2002 for the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in the state. The bench said, The goal post cannot be shifted in the middle of the exercise. 2002 has been kept as the base year for the entire country. We will not interfere with the decision of the Election Commission of India (ECI). The NGO contended that electorate data added in 2002 do not match with the demographic data of Sikkim and considering 2002 as the base year would lead to further anomalies. The bench, however, did not agree with the petitioner, and said that voters enrolled in the ...
Spurs' Vicario set to join Juventus on loan
Tottenham accept a loan offer from Juventus for goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, which includes an option to buy.
'Absolue Defeat For America & Israel': Iran Declares 'TOTAL VICTORY' In War Against U.S.
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has declared that Tehran defeated the United States and Israel politically and militarily, claiming their nine stated war objectives were completely unsuccessful. Ghalibaf clarified that Iran did not destroy either military, but argued that preventing their strategic goals amounted to a major victory. He called the June 17 memorandum a document of honour consolidating Irans diplomatic gains. The declaration comes as the 60-day US-Iran ceasefire reaches its deadline, with Donald Trump threatening unprecedented economic restrictions against Tehran. The unresolved confrontation also keeps the Strait of Hormuz, nuclear negotiations and regional security at the centre of tensions.#Iran #IranWar #Ghalibaf #IranUS #IranIsrael #DonaldTrump #Israel #USIran #IranNuclear #StraitOfHormuz #MiddleEast #Ceasefire #Geopolitics #BreakingNews #WorldNews
Youth Volleyball Ecosystem Fuels India's Olympic Ambitions
India's burgeoning franchise volleyball ecosystem, particularly with dedicated Under-21 tournaments like the Guardians Trophy, is creating a structured pathway for young players. This initiative aims to develop talent from the grassroots to professional levels, fostering cultural adaptation and skill enhancement, with the ultimate goal of strengthening the senior national team and achieving Olympic qualification.
Supreme Court refuses to interfere with ECI's decision to keep 2002 as base year for SIR in Sikkim
The Supreme Court declined to alter the Election Commission's base year for Sikkim's electoral rolls. Justices dismissed a petition seeking 1993 as the base year instead of 2002. The court stated the goalposts cannot shift mid-exercise for the ongoing revision. Voters enrolled in 2002 have participated in subsequent state polls. No grounds were found to interfere with the Election Commission's decision.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted youth as the state's greatest asset. He urged young people to utilize available opportunities for personal and national growth. Historical figures and freedom fighters were cited as examples of youthful contributions. The government is providing opportunities in education, skills, and employment for progress.
Ola Electric unveils Shakti energy storage portfolio for homes, businesses and grids
Ola Electric celebrated India's Independence Day with the introduction of its Shakti energy storage series. This groundbreaking lineup incorporates locally sourced LFP battery technology for various uses. Home users can expect the Shakti Gen2 to arrive by November 2026, while the Shakti Rack and Mahashakti for businesses will roll out in March 2027. The goal is to effectively capture and use clean energy on all levels.
Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari: Fresh off a breathtaking 82-run knock that powered the Meerut Mavericks to a 36-run victory over the Gaur Gorakhpur Lions, opener Swastik Chikara revealed that sharing a dressing room with modern-day great Virat Kohli has shaped his approach to the game. Chikara, who earned his maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) contract following his sensational performances in earlier UP T20 editions, was a part of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) squad that famously lifted the IPL title in 2025. The young batter played a pivotal role in guiding the franchise to the finals in all three previous editions and lifting the title in 2024. During that title-winning 2024 season, Chikara was in a league of his own, finishing as the tournament's leading run-getter with a staggering 499 runs at an average of 49.90 and a strike rate of 185.50, featuring three fifties and a century. He credited his time in the RCB setup, and specifically his close observations of Kohli, for his current mindset and elite preparation. I have learnt from Virat Kohli to focus on your practice and give your 100 percent. I have been trying to follow the exact same approach, Chikara shared after his match-winning performance at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana International Cricket Stadium. His 45-ball 82, studded with nine boundaries and four massive sixes, laid the foundation for the Mavericks to post a season-high total of 206/6. During the innings, he also etched his name in the record books by becoming only the second player in tournament history to hit 100 sixes. Reflecting on his match-winning innings and the team's tactical approach, Chikara noted, I batted well, got a good stand, and helped my team, so I feel very good. It was a very good track, so we knew we could get a good total. We took on the Powerplay. Personally, I like to stand still and hit sixes. His 45-ball 82, studded with nine boundaries and four massive sixes, laid the foundation for the Mavericks to post a season-high total of 206/6. During the innings, he also etched his name in the record books by becoming only the second player in tournament history to hit 100 sixes. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Hopefully, with the blessings of my elders, I will have a good season this time around, he added. My ultimate goal for the season is to have the best strike rate, make the most runs, and hit the most sixes. Article Source: IANS
Langston Hughes became a defining voice of the Harlem Renaissance in New York. He wrote poetry, fiction, and essays about everyday Black life. Hughes believed in finding ways to achieve goals through genuine commitment and persistence. His work captured the hopes and frustrations of ordinary people. The poet's journey spanned from the Midwest to international recognition.
SC Delhi thrash Raengdai 5-1, set up Durand Cup semis against East Bengal
SC Delhi produced a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat debutants FC Raengdai of Manipur 5-1 on Sunday and set up a semifinal clash against Kolkata heavyweights East Bengal in the Durand Cup. After Chongtham Kishan Singh's (9th) stunning long-range strike had put Raengdai ahead in the first half, substitute Joseph Sunny's (57th, 67th) second-half brace turned the game around. Rodriguinho (82nd), Juan Sebastian Pena (90+3) and Augustine Lalrochana (90+8) were the other SC Delhi goal scorers in the quarter-final match. In Kolkata, a first-half header from PV Vishnu saw East Bengal FC edge past a spirited Indian Army FT side 1-0 in another quarterfinal. The East Bengal versus SC Delhi semifinal will be played at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on August 19. In Ranchi's Birsa Munda Stadium, it was FC Raengdai who took the lead in spectacular fashion against SC Delhi. Chongtham Kishan Singh unleashed a bullet of a shot from around 20 metres that dipped late, st
Best aggressive hybrid mutual funds to invest in August 2026
If you are bothered about the uncertainties and volatility in the market, you can consider investing in aggressive hybrid mutual funds. Mutual fund advisors typically recommend aggressive hybrid fund schemes to conservative equity investors to create wealth to achieve their long-term financial goals.
Goodwill Mupliang win U-15 Independence Day Cup 2026 in Thadlaskein
Shillong, Aug 16: Goodwill FC Mupliang lifted the Independence Day Cup 2026 for U-15 boys by defeating Moodymmai SC 2-0 in the final yesterday. The tournament was organised by the Thadlaskein Sports Association. Both goals in the final were scored by Da-o-ni Rymbai (15, 41). With a total of four goals, he was awarded the [] The post Goodwill Mupliang win U-15 Independence Day Cup 2026 in Thadlaskein first appeared on Highland Post .
India's telecom sector needs policy support to boost domestic manufacturing and exports. Heavy reliance on imports, especially from China, poses supply chain risks. The sector has significant growth potential driven by 5G and expanding digital services. Targeted interventions can help achieve national policy goals and increase GDP contribution. Increased localization and export focus can position India as a major manufacturing hub.
Monsoon no longer an off-season for Goa as tourist footfall rises
Goa welcomed over 61 lakh visitors from January to July this year. July alone showed a notable year-on-year increase in tourist arrivals. The state is actively diversifying its tourism offerings beyond beaches. Efforts focus on wellness, heritage, and MICE tourism for year-round appeal. Enhanced international connectivity and new markets are also being developed.
Iran Speaker claims absolute victory over US, Israel: They failed all war goals
Iran Speaker claims absolute victory over US Israel They failed all war goals
Formal child adoption remains low in J&K; CARA records 42 cases in 2025-26
Jammu and Kashmir recorded 42 children adopted through the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) during 2025-26, a figure substantially lower than adoption numbers reported by several major States, according to data presented by the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development in the Rajya Sabha. The State/UT-wise data, furnished in response to a parliamentary question answered on August 12, shows that Maharashtra recorded the highest number of CARA-facilitated adoptions during the financial year, with 792 cases. Gujarat followed with 547, while Tamil Nadu recorded 501 adoptions. Karnataka accounted for 377 cases, followed by Odisha with 308 and Telangana with 307. Jammu and Kashmirs 42 adoptions were also lower than the figures reported by several northern and neighbouring States. Rajasthan recorded 172 adoptions, while Punjab reported 49, only seven more than J&K. Uttar Pradesh registered 231 cases, Haryana 68, Uttarakhand 30, Himachal Pradesh 14 and Delhi 109. Among other States, Assam recorded 186 adoptions, Kerala 170, Andhra Pradesh 140, Bihar 125 and Chhattisgarh 114. West Bengal reported 237 cases, Madhya Pradesh 221 and Jharkhand 60. The data also showed considerable variation among the northeastern States. Meghalaya and Nagaland reported 13 adoptions each, Mizoram 78, Tripura seven, Arunachal Pradesh five and Manipur four. Sikkim recorded 28 cases. Smaller Union Territories and States also reported relatively modest numbers. Goa recorded 25 adoptions, Chandigarh 18, Puducherry 15 and Andaman and Nicobar Islands 11. Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu reported five cases. No adoption through CARA was recorded in Ladakh or Lakshadweep during 2025-26. Across the 36 States and Union Territories listed in the annexure, the reported number of CARA-facilitated adoptions stood at 5,022 during the financial year. J&Ks 42 cases therefore accounted for less than one per cent of the reported national total. The Ministry, however, has clarified that adoption figures should be viewed in the context of the availability of children who have been declared legally free for adoption. The waiting period for prospective adoptive parents depends not only on the number of applicants but also on the availability of legally free children and the age group preferred by prospective parents. The government is seeking to strengthen the adoption infrastructure through Mission Vatsalya. States and UTs have been advised to establish at least one Specialised Adoption Agency (SAA) in every district under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 and the Adoption Regulations, 2022. As of July 29, 2026, 795 SAAs had been approved across the country under Mission Vatsalya. These agencies support the formal adoption process and provide residential care to adoptable children below six years of age. The adoption system has also been substantially digitised. All SAAs are required to operate through the integrated CARINGS-Mission Vatsalya platform, which facilitates digital processing of cases from referral and matching to documentation. The system also allows authorities to monitor compliance through real-time dashboards at the Central and State levels. The Ministry said District Magistrates have been empowered to issue adoption orders under the Juvenile Justice Act and Adoption Regulations. Prescribed timelines have been laid down for different stakeholders, while CARA undertakes regular monitoring and follow-up with States and UT administrations to reduce delays. The Centre is also using Mission Vatsalya for awareness campaigns promoting legal adoption and foster care. Nationwide and local outreach programmes, workshops, seminars and orientation sessions are being conducted, while CARA uses print, electronic and social media platforms to spread information on legal adoption procedures.
Srinagar Premier League 2026 |Downtown Heroes FC beats Kanwal Football Club 30
Downtown Heroes FC produced a strong second-half performance to secure a convincing 30 victory over Kanwal Football Club in an exciting Srinagar Premier League encounter played at TRC Turf, Srinagar, on Sunday. The match, as per a DFA statement, began with both sides showing determination and discipline from the opening whistle. With three points at stake, Downtown Heroes FC and Kanwal Football Club looked to establish control of the game, resulting in a competitive first half. Despite several attacking attempts from both teams, neither side managed to break the deadlock before the interval. The first half ended 00, with both defenses holding firm and the goalkeepers keeping their sides in contention. The second half, however, brought a completely different momentum to the contest. Downtown Heroes FC returned from the break with greater attacking intent and began putting sustained pressure on the Kanwal defence. Their increased intensity eventually paid off as they found the breakthrough and changed the complexion of the game. With the opening goal, Downtown Heroes FC gained confidence and continued to push forward. Kanwal Football Club attempted to respond and get back into the contest, but Downtown Heroes FC remained organised and continued to threaten in the attacking third. The pressure eventually resulted in a second goal for Downtown Heroes FC, giving them a valuable cushion and putting Kanwal Football Club in a difficult position. Kanwal Football Club continued to fight until the final whistle, searching for an opportunity to reduce the deficit. However, Downtown Heroes FC maintained their composure and defensive organisation while continuing to look dangerous on the counter and through their attacking movements. As the match entered its final stages, Downtown Heroes FC added a third goal, completing an impressive second-half display and putting the result beyond doubt. The final whistle confirmed a 30 victory for Downtown Heroes FC, following a goalless first half and a dominant attacking display after the restart. For Downtown Heroes FC, the result will provide significant confidence as they continue their campaign in the Srinagar Premier League. Their ability to remain patient during a difficult first half before producing three goals after the break highlighted their determination and attacking quality. For Kanwal Football Club, the result will be disappointing after they managed to keep Downtown Heroes FC scoreless during the opening 45 minutes. The team showed resilience in the first half but struggled to contain the increased pressure following the restart. The encounter once again showcased the competitive nature of the Srinagar Premier League, with both teams demonstrating commitment and fighting spirit throughout the match. The atmosphere at TRC Srinagar added to the occasion as football fans followed an entertaining contest that remained goalless at half-time before coming alive in the second period. With the 30 victory, Downtown Heroes FC Walk away with all three points, while Kanwal Football Club will look to regroup and return stronger in their upcoming fixture. The match was another important chapter in the ongoing Srinagar Premier League campaign, where every point matters and every performance can have an impact on the standings.
Quote of the day Kristen Stewart challenges the idea that success has one universally accepted appearance. Money, awards, recognition, and professional achievements can be valuable, but they are not the only measures of a life well lived. True success may be found in the freedom to do meaningful work, the ability to enjoy the present, the courage to make honest choices, and the integrity to remain genuine while pursuing personal goals.
PM Modis I-Day speeches chart Indias shift from basic needs to advanced ambitions
New Delhi, Aug 16:Prime Minister NarendraModis Independence Day speeches over the past decade offer a snapshot of what his government sees as Indias evolution from addressing basic development gaps to pursuing technological self-reliance and global economic influence. The shift is visible in the subjects of his Red Fort addresses from toilets, roads, electricity, poverty, and bank accounts in the early years to semiconductors, Artificial Intelligence, quantum technology, nuclear energy, space missions, and global supply chains in 2026. Taken together, the speeches show a progression from expanding access and fixing basic deficiencies towards building capabilities, creating new platforms and positioning India as a global innovation and manufacturing hub. In 2014, PM Modi made sanitation and womens dignity a central theme, asking: Can't we just make arrangements for toilets for the dignity of our mothers and sisters? By 2026, the focus had moved to semiconductors, which he described as indispensable to electronic goods, medical equipment and transportation systems. In today's digital world and technology-driven era, we understand the importance of the chip, the PM said, warning that the world had reached a point where the entire system could come to a standstill without chips. India has begun establishing its own semiconductor manufacturing capacity as part of the drive towards self-reliance, he said. In 2016, PM Modi described rural roads as a perpetual issue, saying every rural citizen craved pakka roads. In 2018, he highlighted the achievement of Indian scientists launching more than 100 satellites in one go, saying it had left the world astonished. In 2024, the PM said the success of the Chandrayaan mission had created a new atmosphere of interest in science and technology in schools and colleges. In 2025, he said India was preparing for an Aatmanirbhar Bharat Gaganyaan mission and working towards building its own space station. By 2026, the agenda expanded to AI, quantum technology, space, robotics, and data centres. Today is the age of AI, quantum technology, space, robotics and data centres, PM Modi said. An entirely new domain has opened up. Emerging technologies, he said, were challenging India every moment. The country should not merely become a market for the world but should become a hub of innovation. Poverty was a defining concern in his first Independence Day address. If the people of India could remove such a big empire without the power of the government, without weapons and even without resources, then friends, it is the need of the hour to eradicate poverty, can we not overcome poverty? Can we not defeat poverty? the PM said in 2014. My 125 crore dear countrymen, let us resolve to eradicate poverty, to win against it, he said. By 2026, PM Modi framed the issue around development reaching the last person. The resolve for a developed India will be fulfilled only when development reaches the last person, he said. Before 2014, only 25 crore people had social security cover, the PM said, adding, We have provided social security cover to 100 crore countrymen within a decade. In 2014, he asked whether it was acceptable that women had to defecate in the open. We are living in 21st century. Has it ever pained us that our mothers and sisters have to defecate in open? Whether dignity of women is not our collective responsibility? PM Modi said. He described the plight of poor rural women who had to wait for darkness before they could go out to defecate, asking: Can't we just make arrangements for toilets for the dignity of our mothers and sisters? In 2018, the PM announced with pride the grant of Permanent Commission for the appointment of women officers in the Short Service Commission of the Indian Armed Forces. In 2026, his focus was on political representation. Let us step forward to uphold their dignity and ensure that our mothers and sisters secure 33 percent representation in the Legislative Assemblies and the LokSabha as soon as possible, so they may contribute to shaping India's policies, he said. It is the need of the hour and I once again urge all the political parties, come and join in the cause, PM Modi said. In 2014, he focused on farmer suicides and debt. But, please tell me why our farmers commit suicide? the PM said, describing farmers borrowing from moneylenders, struggling to repay loans and facing hardship after borrowing for expenses such as their daughters weddings. He chooses to commit suicide. Who will save the poor families of such farmers? he said. In 2018, PM Modi said economists, farmer organisations, farmers and political parties had for years demanded that farmers receive an MSP equal to one-and-a-half times their investment. The matter was debated for years, files moved to and fro, and but was stuck, he said. Finally, we took the decision. We took a bold decision of giving the farmers the MSP which is one and half times their investment, the PM said. In 2025, he said Indian farmers had broken all previous records in grain production and that agro products worth 4 lakh crore rupees had been exported. By 2026, the focus had shifted towards global markets. Our farmers now have access to global markets, PM Modi said, pointing to free trade agreements, or FTAs, that were opening access to large markets. We have to move from the farm to the export market, he said, citing traditional cuisine, millets, spices, fruits and flowers. Today due to this FTA, the possibility of export of our shrimp has increased a lot, the PM said. In 2015, he said he wanted to strengthen the start-up ecosystem and announced his resolve to establish Start-up India and Stand-up India. In 2016, PM Modi said there should not be any district or block in India where start-ups were not initiated. Whether India cannot dream that India becomes number one in the world of start-up. Today we are not at that position, he said. By 2026, the PM pointed to the expansion of private entrepreneurship into the space sector. We have opened up numerous avenues; we have opened up the startup sector, he said. PM Modi said private Indian start-ups, led by young people with an average age of 28, had launched satellites and rockets and succeeded in their very first trial. They have accomplished something truly remarkable, he said. Manufacturing and technology self-reliance In 2014, the PM launched his manufacturing vision with a call for Make in India. From electrical to electronics, 'Come, Make in India', from automobiles to agro value addition 'Come, Make in India', paper or plastic, 'Come, Make in India', satellite or submarine 'Come, Make in India', he said. In 2025, PM Modi said an Indian-made chip would be available in the market by the end of that year. 'Made in India' chip, manufactured in Bharat by the people of Bharat, will be available in the market, he said. The PM extended the self-reliance agenda to operating systems, cybersecurity, deep technology and artificial intelligence. From operating systems to cyber security, from deep tech to artificial intelligence, everything should be our own, on which the strength of our own people is concentrated, we should introduce the power of their capabilities to the world, he said. By 2026, PM Modi was calling for a much broader manufacturing ecosystem. We must significantly advance the manufacturing sector; alongside boosting production, we need to manufacture everything from small components to large-scale products, he said. The entire value chain should be ours and we should move ahead with it, we need components as well as complete manufacturing, we need complete product also, the PM said. From design to manufacturing, India must emerge as a trusted hub in the global supply chain, he said. Village electrification to nuclear energy In 2015, PM Modi set a target of providing electric poles, wires and electricity to 18,500 villages within 1000 days. By 2026, the focus had shifted to energy security and nuclear power. Energy security is the need of the hour, and therefore, we have already taken a series of strong steps in this direction, he said. The PM identified nuclear energy as one major means of ensuring energy security. By passing the SHANTI Act in Parliament, we have paved the way towards a new goal, he said. By 2047, India was working towards a target of 100 gigawatts of nuclear power, PM Modi said, while within the decade the government had set a target of starting five new nuclear reactors. In 2015, he focused on the potential of broadband connectivity to transform rural education. You can imagine what a quality education the children in villages will get, if all the villages of India are connected with Broadband Connectivity and if we are able to give long distance education to the schools in every remote corner of the villages, the PM said. In 2024, he recalled the days when Indians struggled even for 2G connectivity. We are already working in the mission mode for 6G and we shall surprise the world with our progress, PM Modi said. By 2026, he said the number of internet users and consumers had increased nearly fourfold, patents granted had increased fourfold and digital transactions had increased 100 times. Our goal should be to ensure that Made-in-India 6G reaches every corner of the world, the PM said. We must accelerate our efforts in this direction, and our commitment to this endeavour must not diminish, he said. PM Modis speeches have also tracked the governments campaign against Left-Wing Extremism and Naxalism. In 2017, he praised security forces for curbing Left-Wing Extremism, saying their efforts had mobilised many young people in affected regions to surrender and join the mainstream. In 2018, the PM said Left-Wing Extremism and Maoism had been bleeding the country, with violent incidents, people fleeing their homes and hiding in forests becoming a daily occurrence. He said continuous efforts by security forces, development projects and efforts to connect people with the national mainstream had reduced the number of districts affected by Left-Wing Extremism from 126 to 90. In 2025, PM Modi said there had been a time when Naxalism had taken root in more than 125 districts, with tribal areas and youth caught in the grip of Maoism. Today, we have reduced that number from over 125 districts to merely 20, he said. In 2026, the PM said that when his government received the mandate to serve in 2014, it had resolved on that day to free India from Naxalism. Today, I am happy to say that Naxalite-Maoist violence may no longer even have the strength to take its final breath, he said. We are moving towards eliminating it completely, he said. In areas where Naxalites once fired their guns, where the land was once stained with blood, today, in those very Naxal-affected regions and areas, the tricolour of development, trust and endeavour is flying high, PM Modi said. In 2015, he highlighted the lack of basic banking access. Even after sixty years of independence... 40% people of the country were without a bank account... the doors of the banks were not open for the poor, the PM said. By 2025, his focus had shifted to Indias digital payments infrastructure. Our own UPI platform is surprising the world today, he said, adding that India alone was accounting for 50 percent of real-time transactions through UPI. In 2026, PM Modi said India had already demonstrated its capabilities through UPI and digital public infrastructure. We have made the world aware of our strength, he said. Now Bharat must take its digital public technologies to every corner of the world, the PM said. Across the speeches, the trajectory is clear: PM Modis early Independence Day addresses concentrated on toilets, electricity, roads, poverty, and financial inclusion, while later speeches increasingly emphasised space, start-ups, digital infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, AI, quantum technology, and nuclear energy. For the government, the progression represents a shift from solving immediate deficiencies to building systems and capabilities designed to make India more self-reliant and competitive in global markets and supply chains.
Scorpio Daily Horoscope for August 17, 2026
You are likely to be in a more serious frame of mind. The practical issues of life are going to demand your attention today. But you are full of faith and optimism and are ready to take chances at the deepest emotional levels. Someone near to you will exhibit concerns regarding your aims and goals. Take the time to explain the situation to them. Read full Scorpio horoscope
Fewer Flight Delays As BestTurn Can Find Airport Ground Crews in Minutes
For passengers, a flight delay often looks simple: the departure time changes, the gate gets more crowded, and a connection more uncertain. But the cause is ordinary and much harder to fix. A cabin-cleaning team may be short-staffed. A wheelchair attendant may be unavailable. A late-arriving aircraft may need more people on the ground than the original shift plan anticipated. I met BestTurn s founder and CEO Wonjin Choi in person at the Incheon Startup Park (S. Korea) to discuss how his startup approaches that problem. Today, his company operates at Incheon International Airport and says its SpotWork platform can identify and match qualified workers to an urgent airport task within three minutes. BestTurn is not creating a qualified airport worker in three minutes. It is trying to match from a pool of people who have already been trained, credentialed, and prepared to work in the airport environment. When I asked whether the company was essentially Uber for airport staff, Choi agreed with the broad analogy, then immediately explained its limits. BestTurn does not cover flight attendants, for example. It focuses on the ground-side jobs needed to prepare an aircraft for its next departure: cabin cleaning, loading and unloading, catering, passenger assistance, and other services around the aircraft turnaround. Choi said there can be roughly 30 job functions associated with a single flight operation. Passengers may notice a cleaning team entering the plane or someone assisting a traveler with a wheelchair, but most of the work remains invisible. It happens between the moment one group of passengers leaves the aircraft and the moment another group boards. If any part of that chain is delayed, the effects can reach the next departure. The company says its platform digitizes workers security passes, training records, and job qualifications, then uses factors such as certification, skill, location, preference, and fatigue to recommend assignments. Its investor deck says the system is intended to respond to disruptionssuch as delays, no-shows, or sudden demand for another cleaning team. The key detail from our conversation is where those workers come from. The goal is to recruit local people who live near the airport, then prepare them for eligible work. He said that process can take more than a month because workers need training, licenses where applicable, and airport-security access before they can be dispatched. Only after that preparation can the work become flexible. Choi described workers receiving an alert on their phones and accepting an assignment when they are available. Some may spend time at the airport before a shift, taking advantage of its facilities, while others may come from nearby. The important point is that they are not anonymous gig workers entering a secure environment without preparation. That is what makes BestTurn more interesting than a conventional staffing app . The matching software is key, but the more difficult work is building a trusted pool of workers that airlines, ground handlers, and airport operators will accept. Airport ground operations are safety-sensitive, regulated, and labor-intensive. That is BestTurns potential moat . Matching software can be copied, but building a trusted, credentialed worker pool and earning acceptance from airlines and airport operators requires experience, compliance systems, and time. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) says the sector continues to face skilled-worker shortages, recruitment challenges, and the need for standardized training and attention to fatigue and other human factors. IATAs ground-operations guidance shows why an airport cannot treat this like ordinary on-demand work. The startups business argument is equally straightforward. Airlines and handlers need enough people to manage peak periods, but keeping a large reserve workforce can be costly when activity falls. BestTurn argues that a more flexible pool lets customers pay for work performed rather than maintaining as much idle capacity. Its investor deck uses a wheelchair-service example in which the airline pays about $30 per service hour, the worker receives about $21, and BestTurn keeps about $9. This seems comparable to rates Ive seen or heard about in the temporary staffing industry. The U.S. market is attractive because the scale is enormous. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey said its commercial airports handled nearly 146 million passengers in 2024, their second consecutive record year. The Port Authoritys announcement illustrates the number of aircraft turnarounds and service handoffs that take place every day across the region. BestTurn says it hopes to enter the U.S. through relationships developed with airlines at Incheon, including American Airlines and Alaska Airlines. The companys investor deck says it is seeking $1.5 million to support a planned first U.S. airport operation by the first half of 2027. Fewer Flight Delays As BestTurn Can Find Airport Ground Crews in Minutes , original content from Ubergizmo . Read our Copyrights and terms of use .
East Bengal FC Advances to Semifinals with Narrow Win
Kolkata, August 16: East Bengal FC secured a place in the semifinals of the 135th IndianOil Durand Cup by defeating Indian Army FT 1-0 in a quarterfinal match held at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Sunday. The only goal of the match came from PV Vishnu in the 38th minute with a header. From ... Read more East Bengal FC Advances to Semifinals with Narrow Win
East Bengal FC Advances to Semifinals with Victory Over Indian Army FT in Durand Cup
Kolkata, August 16: East Bengal FC secured their place in the semifinals of the 135th IndianOil Durand Cup by defeating Indian Army FT 1-0 in a quarterfinal match on Sunday. The decisive goal came from PV Vishnu in the 38th minute, courtesy of a header. The match took place at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan. ... Read more East Bengal FC Advances to Semifinals with Victory Over Indian Army FT in Durand Cup
Statsguru: India's high income goal faces roadblocks on the path to 2047
India needs sustained 9.25% annual growth to become a developed economy by 2047, but low investment and a prolonged lower-middle-income phase remain key challenges
Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard delivered a man of the match performance capped by the final goal in his team's dominant 3-0 victory in Cardiff on Sunday.
Ashwin Mushran Accused Of Hitting Father-Son Duo In Goa; Munna Bhai Actor
Arsenals Calafiori scripts history with fastest-ever Community Shield goal in 118 years
Black Hawks Triumph In Inaugural Guardians Trophy
Hyderabad Black Hawks U21 have won the inaugural Guardians Trophy, defeating hosts Goa Guardians U21 3-1 in the final. The tournament provided a crucial platform for emerging Indian volleyball talent, with individual awards and prize money distributed to top performers.
Four arrested for killing Bidar man over goats damaging crops
How ChatGPT helped man locate his lost shoes at MP temple
A Goa-based man, Shubhang Borkar, ingeniously used ChatGPT to locate his lost footwear amidst a pile of shoes outside the Mahakal Temple in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. He uploaded images of the footwear and his own shoes to the AI chatbot, which then successfully identified his pair, showcasing a practical and unusual application of artificial intelligence.
Indian Womens Hockey Team Draws 2-2 Against China in World Cup Opener
Amstelveen, August 16: In their opening match of the 2026 Hockey World Cup, the Indian womens team played to a 2-2 draw against China on Sunday. Navneet and Deepika scored for India, while Zhang Ying and Ma Ning netted goals for China. The match, held at the Wagner Hockey Stadium in Amstelveen, saw both teams ... Read more Indian Womens Hockey Team Draws 2-2 Against China in World Cup Opener
House of Abhinandan Lodha targets 40 boutique resorts in five years
House of Abhinandan Lodha plans to establish 40 boutique resorts under its Miros brand, focusing on luxury experiences rather than conventional hotels. The initial properties will be in Goa, with others planned across Maharashtra and Ayodhya over the next five years.
Anders Antonsen Aims for Gold at BWF World Championships in New Delhi
New Delhi, August 16: World number 4 player Anders Antonsen will kick off his BWF World Championship campaign in New Delhi on Monday. His goal is to add another medal to his collection. Following his victory at the Thailand Open, Antonsen is eager to claim the world title in mens singles. Antonsen has already secured ... Read more Anders Antonsen Aims for Gold at BWF World Championships in New Delhi
Decoding Aston Villa's goalkeeping situation in 2026 summer transfer window
Aston Villa are embracing themselves for a busy period in terms of goalkeeping situation this summer.
India Secures Crucial Draw Against China In World Cup
India played an impressive opening match at the Women's Hockey World Cup, securing a 2-2 draw against Olympic silver medallists China, with goals from Navneet Kaur and Deepika.
If you are likely to continually experience work-related relocation, then you must consider investing primarily in financial assets; buying land must be to park surplus cash, not to achieve life goal
Food Safety Deptt keeps watch over pilgrims' plates
Baltal (Ganderbal), Aug 15: While thousands of pilgrims trek through the mountains to the Holy Cave, Food Safety Department teams are keeping a close watch on the food being served along the Amarnath Yatra routes. The department, working under the Jammu and Kashmir Food and Drugs Administration, has deployed teams at major transit points and base camps, including Baltal and Pahalgam, to inspect langars and other food outlets. Mobile Food Testing Vans have also been deployed to check food items and drinking water on the spot. Officials said teams are inspecting raw-material storage, cooking areas, utensils and water quality during daily checks. So far, 576 food samples have been tested and 354 langars inspected, officials said. They said the department has also organised 144 awareness programmes involving more than 1,200 people and held 103 training sessions during the Yatra. Officials said expired, damaged or substandard food items found during inspections are destroyed on the spot. The department is also training food handlers and sewadars on basic hygiene and safe food handling. They are being advised to use masks, hairnets and gloves and take precautions against cross-contamination. Officials said teams are also checking compliance with the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Boards food guidelines, including restrictions on excessive oil, salt and sugar. Heavy fried food, carbonated drinks and other prohibited items are not allowed along the high-altitude routes. Serving thousands of pilgrims at high altitudes requires absolute vigilance. Our goal is simple: ensure every pilgrim receives wholesome, safe food so they can complete their holy pilgrimage in good health, a senior food safety officer at Baltal base camp said. Food inspections and sample testing will continue through the Yatra period, officials said.
Can you name every goalscorer in the Community Shield since 2010?
How's your knowledge of the Community Shield? The post Can you name every goalscorer in the Community Shield since 2010? appeared first on Planet Football .
PM inaugurates National Fisheries Fortnight-2026
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today formally inaugurated the National Fisheries Fortnight-2026, aiming to further strengthen the fisheries sector to advance the government's goal of building a self-reliant and welfare-oriented Bangladesh.
If you are likely to continually experience work-related relocation, then you must consider investing primarily in financial assets; buying land must be to park surplus cash, not to achieve life goal
Pakistani national detained by BSF after crossing into India; claims he strayed while grazing goats
Goa Man Uses ChatGPT To Find Lost Footwear Outside Ujjain Temple
Shubhang Borkar turned his phone into a scanning device outside the Mahakal Temple in Madhya Pradesh's Ujjain, sharing snapshots of footwear with the chatbot until it flagged his missing pair
Meenakshi Chaudhary hails her 'GOAT' star Vijays professionalism
Goa Man Loses His Shoes At Ujjain Temple, Uses ChatGPT To Find Them
These days Artificial intelligence use has become for every day to day work and one such case has come from Ujjain where a Goa man experiment took AI to find the temple shoe reck. A goa man named Shubhang Borkar came
Bangladesh Secures Historic Victory Against Australia in First Test
New Delhi, August 16: Bangladesh has achieved a remarkable victory against Australia in the first Test match, marking a significant milestone in their cricketing history. Chasing a target of 57 runs, Bangladesh successfully reached the goal with just one wicket lost. This victory represents Bangladeshs first Test win on Australian soil. The match took place ... Read more Bangladesh Secures Historic Victory Against Australia in First Test
Messi misses third successive penalty as Inter Miami go down to Nashville SC
Messi, had a chance to level the scores at 1-1 in the third minute, but his penalty spot was saved by Nashville goalie Brian Schwake. Sergio Reguilon did put in an equaliser through a rebound, but it was disallowed for encroachment after a VAR, as per ESPN.
SSY vs PPF in 2026: Compare interest rates, tax benefits, returns and key differences
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) v Public Provident Fund (PPF) in 2026: Compare interest rates, tax benefits, eligibility, maturity, withdrawals and returns to understand which government-backed savings scheme better suits your financial goals.
ChatGPT to the rescue: Goa man uses AI hack to find lost footwear
Proving that artificial intelligence can find goofy solutions to routine problems, a Goa-based man used ChatGPT to resolve every temple visitor's challenge: finding one specific pair of shoes in a sea of footwear. Shubhang Borkar turned his phone into a scanning device outside the Mahakal Temple in Madhya Pradesh's Ujjain, sharing snapshots of footwear with the chatbot until it flagged his missing pair. Borkar shared a video of his AI experiment titled Used ChatGPT to find my lost clogs on Instagram four days ago. The video shows how Borkar, who described himself as hacker on weekdays (cybersec), explorer on weekends, used the AI chatbot to identify his footwear after failing to pick it out from the crowded shoe racks outside the temple. In the video, he first shot rows of footwear around him, highlighting how difficult it was to distinguish one pair from another, and then opened ChatGPT and uploaded pictures of his shoes along with a separate image showing what his clogs look
Congress President Kharge To Address Congress Workers In Goa On Aug 17
This is the first time Kharge will address party workers in Goa after taking charge as the Congress national president
Quote of the Day by Thomas Jefferson highlights the need for new actions to achieve different outcomes. Many personal goals require breaking familiar patterns and accepting uncertainty. Taking risks and trying new things can lead to unforeseen possibilities. Jefferson, a key figure in American history, owned enslaved people. His legacy shows that change often demands leaving comfort zones and trying something different.
Shera Energy eyes 25-30% revenue growth in FY27, bets on capacity expansion
Jaipur-based Shera Energy is targeting 25-30 per cent revenue growth in the current financial year, supported by capacity expansion and foray into new value-added products to cater to the power and renewable energy sectors, according to a top company official. The NSE-listed company, which is also into recycling, began operations in 2003 with aluminium winding wires and had annual revenues of around Rs 20 crore during its early years, its Chairman and Managing Director Naseem Sheikh said in an interaction with PTI. In FY26 Shera Energy reported annual turnover of Rs 1,640 crore. The company manufactures winding wires and other electrical products using copper, aluminium and brass, catering primarily to transformers, motors and other electrical equipment. This year, we intend to grow another 25-30 per cent on our revenues and bottom line, Sheikh said. To achieve its goal, Shera Energy is expanding its product portfolio into higher value-added segments, including solar ribbon and
Jindal Stainless investing Rs 900 crore to increase cold rolling capacity to 2.67 MT by FY28: MD
Jindal Stainless plans a Rs 900 crore investment to expand its cold rolling capacity. This expansion will support rising demand from key industrial sectors. The company is also planning a significant Rs 40,000 crore manufacturing facility in Maharashtra. This new plant will produce specialized steel grades for emerging strategic sectors. Jindal Stainless reported strong financial performance and progress towards sustainability goals.
Minister urges officials to achieve Swarna Kadapa 2047 goals
The Minister also mentioned the substantial allocation of funds to the municipalities, Water Resources and the Tourism departments
Akur-chi-bhaji and the Ancient Mysteries of Ferns
In Goa, boundary walls bloom with ferns that eagerly absorb the monsoon rains. These ancient plants have a unique reproductive process through spores, once dubbed magical. Remarkably, some ferns can boast around 1,400 chromosomes. Edible varieties, particularly the tender young shoots known as fiddleheads, are a seasonal treat enjoyed in India and Japan.
India beat Wales 3-1 in Hockey World Cup opener; Harmanpreet Singh scores twice
India opened their FIH Mens Hockey World Cup 2026 campaign in style, defeating Wales 3-1 in their Pool D opener at the Wagener Stadium in Amstelveen on Saturday. Captain Harmanpreet Singh led from the front with two goals, while Sanjay also found the net as India collected three valuable points. All three of Indias goals [] The post India beat Wales 3-1 in Hockey World Cup opener; Harmanpreet Singh scores twice appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
LG Ladakh VK Saxena hoist Tricolour in Leh
The 80th Independence Day was celebrated with patriotic fervour and gaiety across Ladakh union territory. In Leh district, the main function was held at the historic Pologround where the Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena hoisted the National Flag, inspected the parade and saluted the marching contingents, including the Armed forces and school students, which took part in the march past during the event. Addressing the gathering, Saxena paid tribute to the freedom fighters whose sacrifices secured Indias Independence and laid the foundation of its democratic journey. He also saluted personnel of the Armed Forces, paramilitary forces, Ladakh Scouts, police and the Border Roads Organisation guarding the countrys borders in Ladakhs challenging terrain and harsh climate. The LG highlighted the creation of Ladakh as a separate Union Territory in 2019 as a significant milestone in its development journey. He said the administration, with the support of the Centre, has focused on strengthening infrastructure, governance, healthcare, education, tourism, renewable energy, agriculture, water security, connectivity and social welfare. Saxena said five new districts Sham, Nubra, Changthang, Zanskar and Drass along with 17 new tehsils and 16 new engineering divisions, have brought administration and public services closer to the people. He also highlighted the ongoing process of establishing Hill Councils in all seven districts to strengthen grassroots democracy. On tourism and connectivity, the LG said Ladakh had received more than 3.30 lakh tourists by the end of July this year, nearly 98 per cent of the total tourist arrivals recorded during the whole of 2025. He said Ladakhs road network has expanded from 1,799 km before the formation of the UT to more than 4,200 km, while the number of bridges has increased from 19 to 72. Projects such as the Zojila Tunnel and Leh Bypass, he said, are further strengthening all-weather connectivity. Emphasising sustainable development, Saxena highlighted initiatives including Project Him Sarovar, Himalayan rock check dams, the Indus River Green Corridor, expansion of tap-water coverage, renewable energy projects and geothermal wells at Puga. He also underlined efforts to strengthen the Pashmina sector, including the Ladakh Pashmina Development Board, incentives for more than 1,200 pashmina producers and an ` 8 crore revolving fund to ensure timely payments. The LG expressed gratitude to farmers, Changpa herders, teachers, doctors, nurses, health workers, engineers and citizens for their contribution to Ladakhs development. He urged the youth to acquire knowledge, embrace innovation and make use of emerging opportunities. Stressing the need to balance development with environmental protection, Saxena said future generations must inherit a Ladakh that is prosperous, peaceful, vibrant and ecologically sustainable. He expressed confidence that Ladakh would continue to contribute to the national goal of Viksit Bharat @2047 with the support of the Centre. The march past featured contingents from the CRPF, RAF, ITBP, CISF, Ladakh Police, Ladakh Police Commando and ex-servicemen, besides NCC cadets from the first and second Ladakh Battalions. Students from schools across Leh, Kargil, Drass, Nubra, Sham, Changthang and Zanskar also participated. A demonstration by the Ladakh Police K-9 Squad and a performance by the Ladakh Police Women Pipe Band were among the highlights. Cultural performances were presented by the Ladakh Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, as well as schools and educational institutions from across the Union Territory. Lieutenant Governors Appreciation Certificates were also conferred on officials and organisations for exemplary work. The family of late Col Sonam Wangchuk (Retd.) received the dPal rNgam Duston Lifetime Achievement Award, while His Holiness Gyalwang Drukpa was conferred the dPal rNgam Duston Award 2026. Meanwhile, in Kargil the Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor (CEC) of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, hoisted the National Flag at Khree Sultan Chow Sports Stadium, Biamathang, Kargil, and took the salute at the march past as the nation marked its 80th Independence Day. The celebration witnessed enthusiastic participation from contingents of Ladakh Police, the Police Band Party, NCC Cadets, and students from various government and private schools. Prominent dignitaries in attendance included Executive Councillors Aga Syed Mujtaba and Aga Syed Ali; Deputy Commissioner and CEO LAHDC Kargil, Rakesh Kumar; Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kargil, Nitin Yadav; Directors of FCS&CA, ULB, Tourism and Education; Additional Deputy Commissioner Kargil; ACR Kargil; senior district officers, representatives of religious organisations, and members of the public. On the occasion of the 80th Independence Day, Chief Executive Councillor (CEC), LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon extended warm greetings to the people of Kargil and the nation and paid rich tributes to the freedom fighters and national leaders whose sacrifices paved the way for Indias independence. CEC Kargil said that August 15 is not merely a day of celebration but also an occasion to reaffirm the countrys commitment towards national unity, integrity, peace and development. He said the sacrifices of the freedom fighters and national leaders continue to inspire the nation, and called upon everyone to work collectively for the progress and prosperity of the country. CEC Kargil said that Kargil is not merely a border district but a land where people from different parts of the country live together in harmony. He said Kargil has always been a symbol of the countrys security and sacrifice, with its brave soldiers guarding the nations borders. He paid tribute to the armed forces and said that the younger generation must continue to uphold the spirit of patriotism and national service. Highlighting the importance of development, CEC Kargil said that the administration and the Hill Council are working to make Kargil a developed and self-reliant district by 2047. He said a strong foundation in the education sector is essential for achieving this goal and that the Council has prepared a Kargil District Vision 2047 Vision Document covering various measures for improving the quality of education.
'Scoring off the field:' How football helped two global leaders to achieve their goals
Scoring off the field How football helped two global leaders to achieve their goals
CSR initiatives can focus on waste management, plastic-free tourism, renewable energy, water conservation, and environmentalCorporate Social Responsibility can play a significant role in strengthening tourism and rural development by encouraging corporates to invest directly in the places where they operate or have a business presence. Corporates can contribute towards preserving local culture and heritage, improving tourism infrastructure, supporting local artisans and entrepreneurs, creating employment opportunities for youth and women, and promoting sustainable practices. Their CSR initiatives can also focus on waste management, plastic-free tourism, renewable energy, water conservation, and environmental protection. By partnering with local communities, government agencies, NGOs, and tourism stakeholders, corporates can help ensure that tourism growth benefits the local population while protecting the cultural and natural resources of the destination. In this way, CSR can transform corporate presence into a meaningful contribution towards inclusive, sustainable, and community-led tourism development. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) can become a powerful catalyst for sustainable rural tourism by ensuring that tourism development benefits local communities while protecting indigenous culture, conserving the environment, and creating long-term livelihood opportunities. Rather than viewing tourism merely as a commercial activity, CSR can encourage corporates to invest in the social, cultural, economic, and environmental well-being of rural destinations. This approach is closely aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to poverty reduction, decent work, sustainable communities, responsible consumption, and climate action. The rise of online travel platforms is an irreversible reality, but it should not come at the cost of marginalizing Kashmirs travel agents, who have long been the backbone of the regions tourism industry. Instead of viewing technology as a threat, the focus should be on creating a level playing field where digital innovation strengthens rather than replaces local businesses. The Government, Tourism Department, travel associations, technology companies, and the corporate sector through CSR must work together to digitally empower local travel agents by providing training in digital marketing, online booking systems, artificial intelligence, customer relationship management, and multilingual communication. A dedicated Kashmir Tourism Digital Marketplace should be established to connect registered local travel agents, hotels, houseboats, guides, transport operators, artisans, and rural tourism enterprises directly with tourists, ensuring that a larger share of tourism revenue remains within the local economy. Policies should encourage transparency and fair competition by ensuring online aggregators prominently feature registered local operators while discouraging practices that unfairly disadvantage small businesses. At the same time, local travel agents should focus on offering personalized, authentic, and experience-driven tourism packages that global platforms cannot easily replicate, such as village tourism, cultural immersion, heritage walks, eco-tourism, local cuisine, handicraft trails, and community-based tourism. CSR initiatives can further accelerate this transformation by funding digital infrastructure, technology adoption, skill development, entrepreneurship, and innovation among small tourism enterprises. Such a collaborative approach will not only protect thousands of livelihoods but also strengthen Kashmirs tourism ecosystem by ensuring that economic benefits reach local communities, promote sustainable and responsible tourism, preserve the regions unique cultural heritage, and position Kashmir as a globally competitive yet locally inclusive tourism destination. The future lies not in choosing between technology and local travel agents, but in integrating both so that digital progress becomes a catalyst for inclusive growth, resilience, and long-term prosperity for the people of Kashmir. CSR can support rural tourism by investing in villages with cultural, ecological, and heritage value. Corporate interventions can strengthen basic infrastructure, improve tourism facilities, promote local enterprises, preserve traditional knowledge, and enhance the visitor experience without compromising the authenticity of rural life. One of the greatest strengths of rural tourism is its indigenous identity. CSR can contribute to documenting and promoting local folklore, traditions, festivals, music, oral histories, traditional architecture, foods like WAZWAAN , HAAK , NOONCHAI, KEHWA ETC and indigenous knowledge. It can support artisans involved in handicrafts, handlooms, pottery, wood carving, papier-mch, embroidery, and other traditional crafts. Restoration of heritage homes, community spaces, village museums, and cultural interpretation centres can further preserve local identity. Training young people in traditional skills can ensure that this heritage is transferred to future generations while creating income through cultural tourism. CSR can also strengthen rural livelihoods by training local youth as tourist guides, eco-guides, interpreters, adventure tourism professionals, and hospitality workers. Women-led Self-Help Groups can be supported in food processing, catering, handicrafts, traditional cuisine, and homestay operations. Farmers can benefit from agri-tourism initiatives, while rural entrepreneurs can receive support in business development and market linkages. Such interventions can generate local employment, empower women and youth, reduce migration, and ensure that a greater share of tourism income remains within the community. Sustainable infrastructure is another important area for CSR intervention. Corporates can support eco-friendly public toilets, safe drinking water, solar lighting, walking and cycling trails, visitor information centres, digital connectivity, signage, and facilities for elderly and differently-abled tourists. Such infrastructure must be designed in harmony with local architecture and ecology. A critical challenge of rural tourism is the generation of waste. CSR can help develop Zero Waste Tourism Villages through scientific waste segregation, collection, transportation, composting, recycling, and Material Recovery Facilities. Waste can be segregated into wet, dry, plastic, glass, metal, and e-waste. CSR can also promote plastic-free tourism by supporting refill water stations, reusable bottles, cloth bags, eco-friendly packaging, and awareness campaigns. Through circular economy models, organic waste can be converted into compost, agricultural waste into useful products, and recyclable materials into crafts and souvenirs, thereby turning waste management into a source of livelihood. Community participation is essential for sustainable tourism. CSR can fund awareness campaigns, school eco-clubs, clean-village initiatives, responsible tourism programmes, and volunteer clean-up drives. It can also support biodiversity conservation through afforestation, wetland and river restoration, protection of flora and fauna, conservation of medicinal plants, and responsible eco-tourism. Digital technology can further strengthen rural tourism through websites, mobile applications, social media promotion, QR-based heritage information, online homestay booking, and e-commerce platforms for local products. Capacity-building programmes in hospitality, hygiene, financial literacy, digital marketing, tourist safety, entrepreneurship, and sustainable tourism can equip local communities to manage tourism professionally For Jammu and Kashmir, CSR can play a transformative role by developing model sustainable tourism villages that showcase the regions natural beauty and cultural heritage while protecting its fragile ecosystems. Corporate investment can support community-owned homestays, preservation of traditional Kashmiri architecture, promotion of Pashmina, papier-mch, walnut wood carving and other crafts, training of local eco-guides, renewable energy, rainwater harvesting, and scientific waste management in valleys, lakes, meadows, and trekking routes. An effective CSR model should bring together government departments, corporates, NGOs, Panchayats, Self-Help Groups, tourism entrepreneurs, educational institutions, and local communities. Such a public-private-community partnership can ensure accountability, local ownership, and long-term sustainability. Ultimately, CSR can transform tourism from a purely commercial activity into a model of inclusive, community-led, culturally sensitive, and environmentally responsible development. By connecting heritage preservation, livelihood creation, sustainable infrastructure, biodiversity conservation, digital promotion, and scientific waste management, CSR can ensure that tourism remains a source of prosperity without destroying the very culture, communities, and landscapes that attract visitors. In addition to it In essence, the goal should not be to fight technology, but to empower Kashmirs travel agents to use technology. Digital platforms should serve as partners that expand market access while preserving local livelihoods, ensuring that tourism continues to benefit Kashmirs communities rather than diverting value away from them. Author is Faculty at JKIMPARD
PM promises jobs for 3.5 crore youth
New Delhi, Aug 15:Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday announced a nationwide talent hunt for children aged 5 to 15 to identify future Olympic athletes, as he positioned India's youth and sporting ambitions at the centre of his vision for a developed nation by 2047. Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on India's 80th Independence Day, PM Modi said India's performance in international sport was steadily improving and the country was moving forward as a strong contender to host the 2036 Olympics. He also said India would host the Commonwealth Games in 2030. India's performance in the world of sports is steadily improving, and we are moving forward as strong contenders to host the 2036 Olympics. Bharat is also going to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030, he said. The PM said the Olympic Games encompass roughly 40 sports and between 325 and 350 events, but India does not participate in nearly two-thirds of those events because it does not qualify. In nearly two-thirds of these 325 events, Bharat does not even participate. We are not present; we do not qualify, he said, adding that India had decided it wanted the 2036 Olympics to be held in the country and must focus on these areas. We also want to launch a talent-hunt campaign, PM Modi said. He said the campaign would be conducted in villages, cities and schools across the country to identify sporting talent among children aged between 5 and 15. If we need athletes for 2036, we must focus today on these young boys and girls who are 5, 10 or 15 years old. We must pay attention to our daughters as well, the PM said. Children identified through the campaign would have their abilities assessed and receive specialised training to help develop them into athletes capable of representing the country, he said. PM Modi highlighted advances across India's sporting ecosystem, citing the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), Khelo India Games, University Games, Winter Games and Beach Games, alongside sports infrastructure, coaching, sports medicine and sports nutrition. The TOPS scheme has achieved tremendous success. Khelo India Games, University Games, Winter Games, Beach Games, sports infrastructure, coaching for sports, sports medicine and sports nutrition, Bharat is moving forward towards achieving excellence in all these areas, he said. The PM said that opportunities were also expanding around sport for young people who may not become athletes themselves. For young people, even if they are unable to become athletes themselves, a vast new field of opportunities is opening up within the support system around sports, he said. PM Modi also announced the launch of the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana, a scheme worth Rs 1 lakh crore that he said would create new employment opportunities for approximately 3.5 crore youth. Today, on August 15, we are launching and implementing a scheme worth Rs 1 lakh crore for the youth of my country, he said. Under the scheme, the government will provide Rs 15,000 to every young person who gets a job in the private sector. Companies that generate more opportunities for new employment will also receive incentives, the PM said. The Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana will create new employment opportunities for approximately 3.5 crore youth, he said. PM Modi said young people would be the greatest beneficiaries of his vision of a Viksit Bharat, or developed India, by 2047. If there is one, it is the youth of my country, the youth power of the country. The youth have a very important role to play in the journey towards a 'Viksit Bharat', he said. Therefore, we must take forward the goal of a 'Viksit Bharat' by connecting it with the aspirations and participation of our youth. We must move forward with our youth as our highest priority. The PM also highlighted the expansion of India's startup ecosystem, saying there were now more than 2.5 lakh registered startups under the Startup India initiative. Referring to the government's Rs 1 lakh crore Innovation Fund, he encouraged young entrepreneurs to pursue their ideas. Come forward with your dreams; we will ensure that there is no shortage of resources, PM Modi said. He also announced free online coaching for young people preparing for various examinations, saying the cost of coaching classes had become a major burden for middle-class families. The pressure of coaching classes has become a major burden for our middle-class families, the PM said. Therefore, we have decided to provide free online coaching for young people preparing for various examinations, he said. PM Modi said the initiative would combine India's digital public infrastructure, teaching talent, and teachers to build a nationwide network offering free coaching. We have the digital public infrastructure, we have excellent talent, and we have teachers. By bringing these resources together, we are going to build an extensive network to provide free coaching to the young people of the country, he said. The PM also warned of growing substance abuse among young people and called for a collective national response. Drug abuse is becoming a major crisis for the country and its young people. A 'Nasha Mukt Bharat' must be a collective responsibility for all of us, he said. For the sake of our bright future, our younger generation must be strong, and the strength of our youth must be harnessed for the progress of our country, PM Modi said. The announcements formed part of the PM's broader Independence Day message focused on youth participation, employment, entrepreneurship, education and sport, as well as India's longer-term ambition to become a developed nation by 2047.
