India Sets Ambitious $1 Trillion Export Target for FY 2027
New Delhi, May 15: India is working towards an ambitious goal of reaching $1 trillion in exports by the fiscal year 2027. The government is relying on proposed export promotion missions and new Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to achieve this target, as stated by a senior government official on Friday. In an interview with NDTV ... Read more India Sets Ambitious $1 Trillion Export Target for FY 2027
No Military Solution, Negotiate Seriously: Iran's Message To US From Delhi
Addressing a press conference in New Delhi following a meeting of the BRICS foreign ministers, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi claimed that after the US became hopeless about achieving any goal in their war against Iran, they offered to negotiate.
New Delhi , May 15 : Launching a scathing critique of Washingtons diplomatic credibility, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Friday asserted that the United States remains the primary barrier to peace in West Asia. Araghchi claimed that after more than a month of failed military objectives, the US attempted to pivot toward dialogue, a move met with deep-seated skepticism in Tehran. Addressing a press conference in New Delhi following a meeting of the BRICS Foreign Ministers, the Iranian Foreign Minister laid bare the trust deficit defining the current geopolitical standoff.Now, after 40 days of war, when the US became hopeless of achieving any goal in their aggression against Iran, they offered negotiation We have no trust in Americans This is the main obstacle in the way of any diplomatic effort. We have every reason not to trust Americans, while they have no reason not to trust us, he stated. Despite the prevailing hostility, Araghchi noted that a very shaky ceasefire is currently holding, though he warned that Irans patience should not be mistaken for submission.We are now in a state of ceasefire, although its very shaky. But we are trying to keep it to give diplomacy a chance There is no military solution to anything related to Iran. They have tested us time and again. We never bow to any pressure or threat We also resist against any sanction Iranian people only answer to the language of respect he emphasised. The Foreign Minister further detailed a timeline of betrayal, alleging that a joint military strike by the US and Israel occurred precisely when diplomatic channels appeared to be open.My country has been the victim of an act of unprovoked aggression by the United States and Israeli regime, which happened right in the middle of negotiations we had with Americans In the middle of diplomacy, they decided to attack us, Araghchi told reporters.Amid this volatility, Araghchi expressed gratitude for international support, specifically lauding New Delhis role in providing both diplomatic and material aid.We appreciate all those countries that condemned this attack. We appreciate the government and people of India, who expressed solidarity and sympathy towards the Iranian people. We appreciate the humanitarian assistance provided to us by the Indian government as a sign of solidarity he said, highlighting the strengthening bond between the two nations.This diplomatic friction comes as the broader landscape of West Asia remains locked in a cold, precarious stalemate. The eruption of hostilities on February 28 pitted the combined forces of the United States and Israel against Iran, and though a fragile ceasefire currently holds, the region is defined by a high-stakes maritime tug-of-war within the strategic Strait of Hormuz. This vital artery of global commerce has become the primary battleground of a shifting energy war. In a bid to cripple Tehrans economic lifeline, the US has enforced a stringent naval blockade designed to choke off Iranian petroleum exports. In a retaliatory display of brinkmanship, Iran has imposed its own severe restrictions, partially shuttering the shipping lane to global traffic.The consequences of this dual stranglehold have rippled across the planet, triggering massive spikes in international fuel prices. This has left the global energy market in a state of sustained, volatile disruption as the standoff continues to reshape regional and global trade. (ANI)
India can play long-term mediator role: Russian FM Lavrov on Iran-US conflict
New Delhi , May 15 : Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Friday said India could serve as a potential mediator in the conflict involving Iran and the US, emphasising on New Delhis vast diplomatic experience and international standing.He referred to Pakistans role in facilitating dialogue between Iran and the United States on immediate issues, while stressing that India would play a vital role in the broader diplomatic engagement to prevent long-term instability in the region. Addressing a media briefing here, Lavrov said, Pakistan is helping establish dialogues between the US and Iran to resolve urgent problems. If they seek a long-term mediator between Iran and its Arab friends, this role could be played by India, considering its vast diplomatic experience,Lavrovs remarks after a meeting of the BRICS Foreign Ministers came at a time when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was in the UAE. The Russian diplomats visit coincides with heightened global anxiety over the Iran conflict and the impending expiry of US sanctions waivers on Russian and Iranian oil. At the press briefing, Lavrov further said that India, as the current BRICS chair and a major energy consumer with direct interests in regional stability, could help bring key stakeholders together for dialogue.India, the BRICS president, is directly interested in receiving oil from this region. Why wont they offer their services, including as a country that is currently presiding over BRICS, so they could invite Iran, the United Arab Emirates, to start with, to have a conversation with each other to agree on how they can avoid any hostilities between the two countries? he said. The Russian Foreign Minister also alleged that certain countries were attempting to deepen hostility between Iran and Arab nations, while asserting that Moscow was pursuing efforts aimed at reducing tensions.And they are trying; other countries are trying to instil this aggression, to instil this hostility in these relations. And I believe that this hostility, this aggression against Iran, was motivated, among other things, to antagonise Iran and its Arab neighbours, Lavrov said. We need to understand root causes of every conflict, here it is unprovoked aggression by US and Israel, he saidHe added that Russia was working with the opposite goal in mind, stressing the need for diplomacy and regional engagement to avoid further escalation in West Asia. Since independence, India has acted as a key global mediator and peacekeeper, transitioning from idealistic, non-aligned mediation (e.g., Korea, Vietnam) to a pragmatic, Vishwa Bandhu (friend of the world) approach.Its strategy combines moral diplomacy with neutral, high-level communication to resolve complex international conflicts, leveraging its position as a Voice of the Global SouthIndia played a critical role in the 1953 armistice with its proposals on prisoner-of-war repatriation. In the 950s and 60s India chaired the International Commission for Supervision and Control (ICSC) in Vietnam, fostering regional stability. India helped broker the declaration of Austrian neutrality in 1955, leading to the withdrawal of Soviet troops.it also actively facilitated peace efforts in the Suez Canal Crisis, the Congo, and during the Iraq-Iran warUnder its G20 presidency, India highlighted the developmental impact of conflicts like the Russia Ukraine conflict and urged dialogue.The idea that the whole world is one family drives its peacemaking efforts. (ANI)
Vedam School of Technology has announced the launch of its Gurugram campus in collaboration with Sushant University on Golf Course Road, marking its first major expansion beyond its founding campus in Pune, which was launched in 2025. With this move, Vedam brings its AI-first engineering model to Gurugram—one of India’s biggest technology and startup hubs, and the largest IT hub in North India. Vice Chancellor of Sushant University, Prof. (Dr.) Rakesh Ranjan with Piyush Nangru, Founder of Vedam School of Technology The Gurugram campus will offer a four-year undergraduate programme in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, where students will study under Vedam’s industry-driven academic model while earning a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) degree from Sushant University, a UGC-recognised and NAAC-accredited institution. Speaking on the collaboration, Prof. (Dr.) Rakesh Ranjan, Vice Chancellor of Sushant University, Gurugram , said, “Sushant University continues to invest in building an education ecosystem centred on technology and innovation. Through this partnership with Vedam, we are enabling students to explore, build, and engage with cutting-edge technologies in a structured academic environment.” The partnership brings together Sushant University’s academic foundation and Vedam’s industry-led learning model, with a shared focus on making engineering education more practical, application-driven, and aligned with how technology is evolving in the real world. By combining academic structure with hands-on learning, the collaboration aims to create an environment where students don’t just study concepts, but actively apply them in real-world contexts from an early stage. “We chose Gurgaon for a reason, it’s where the best tech opportunities already exist. At the Vedam Gurgaon campus, students don’t just prepare for top companies, they grow right next to them,” said Piyush Nangru, Founder, Vedam School of Technology . With Gurugram, we’re placing students right in the middle of an active tech ecosystem, where they don’t just study concepts, but see how those concepts are applied in real companies, on real problems, every single day. Our goal is simple — to build engineers who can contribute from day one, not just graduate with a degree. Vedam’s expansion into Gurugram is a strategic step aligned with its focus on industry proximity. The city is part of the Delhi-NCR corridor, home to over 10,000 startups, 600+ MNCs, and a significant concentration of Global Capability Centres (GCCs). According to industry reports, India had over 1,580 GCCs as of FY2023, with NCR emerging as a key hub. For students, this means greater exposure to real-world problem environments and closer access to companies shaping modern engineering work. At the core of Vedam’s offering is an AI-first, build-oriented curriculum designed to move beyond theoretical learning. Students begin hands-on work from the first year, with a strong emphasis on real-world systems, open-source contributions, and problem-solving across domains such as AI/ML, cybersecurity, NLP, blockchain, robotics, and DevOps. The team behind Vedam comes with a proven placement expertise of 7+ years of experience in higher education, upskilled 20,000+ students & has a 1000+ strong hiring partners network. Last year more than 1000 students were placed across. The curriculum is designed and led by Subhesh Kumar (Head of Academics at Vedam), a former Google engineer and a five-star coder from Delhi Technological University. The academic team at Vedam have mentored over 5,000 students and got them selected to top tech companies like Google, Amazon and Atlassian. The learning model includes regular project reviews, one-on-one mentorship, and structured guidance to ensure consistent skill development. This approach is already translating into early outcomes. In the first year itself, 8+ students have secured paid internships. Some students have also started building real-world credibility at a global level — Mohammad Sharief has earned over Rs. 4.5 lakh through bug bounties on platforms like HackerOne, while Krishiv secured a Rs. 2.7 lakh LFX mentorship with The Linux Foundation. Notably, all of this has been achieved within the first year of the programme. Students at the Gurugram campus will benefit from Sushant University’s infrastructure, including modern lecture theatres, computer labs, a networked library, high-speed internet, amphitheatre and auditorium spaces, along with sports facilities such as tennis courts, basketball courts, volleyball courts, cricket nets, and a football ground. This is complemented by Vedam’s build-focused ecosystem, which includes innovation labs, coding clubs, collaborative workspaces, and dedicated doubt-solving environments designed to support continuous learning and experimentation. Vedam’s expansion is backed by early outcomes from its Pune campus and students have also engaged directly with industry leaders through mentorship and visiting faculty sessions, working on real-world AI products and systems. www.vedam.org . VSAT — a national-level online assessment — followed by a personal interview and counselling. Only the top 5% earn a place. Vedam isn’t for everyone. It’s for those who are ready to build, push limits, and lead in the age of AI.
Indo-French Investment Dialogue Strengthens Opportunities in Madhya Pradesh
The Indo-French Chamber of Commerce & Industry hosted a new edition of Indo-French Investment Conference in Bhopal, strengthening regional economic partnerships and advancing collaboration between French companies and the state of Madhya Pradesh. Indo-French Investment Dialogue Strengthens Opportunities in Madhya Pradesh Hon’ble Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Dr. Mohan Yadav welcomed the delegation for a Roundtable Meeting at his residence and emphasised that India and France share a strong and trusted strategic partnership, which can be further strengthened through deeper collaboration in sectors such as defence, technology, innovation, and skill development. He highlighted Madhya Pradesh’s immense potential for global investors, supported by its central location, strong connectivity, industrial peace, skilled workforce, and transparent, industry-friendly governance. He further reiterated the State Government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for sustainable industrial growth and long-term partnerships. Organised in association with MP Industrial Development Corporation (MPIDC) and supported by the Embassy of France in India, the Conference witnessed the presentation of seven Expressions of Interest (EoIs) and two Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) between leading French companies and the Government of Madhya Pradesh across key sectors. The presenting companies and focus areas included: POMA Ropeways : development and operation of ropeway and cable mobility systems for urban transport, tourism, and pilgrimage connectivity AIVancity and Medicaps University : establishment of a higher-education institution focused on technology, innovation, and applied sciences Dassault Systèmes : deployment of virtual twin technologies across industrial development, urban planning, water management, and skill development Soufflet : development of a contract-farming ecosystem for malting-grade barley, including farmer capacity building and storage infrastructure SYSTRA : collaboration opportunities in transport infrastructure, mobility planning, and engineering initiatives ENGIE : exploration of renewable energy, energy storage, green industrial energy solutions, and green hydrogen initiatives Tesca Textiles : proposed manufacturing facility for advanced textiles and automotive seat components in Madhya Pradesh Sanofi : signed an MoU with the National Health Mission, Madhya Pradesh for capacity building and strengthening the public health system in the areas of diabetes and rare diseases, including knowledge-sharing, training, and healthcare support initiatives. An MoU was also signed between IFCCI and MPIDC to strengthen institutional collaboration and facilitate greater Indo-French business engagement in the state. The ceremony took place in the presence of Mr. Chetanya Kasyap , Hon’ble Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of Madhya Pradesh and H.E. Mr. Thierry Mathou , Ambassador of France to India. The event brought together nearly 150 senior delegates , including CEOs and CXOs of French and Indian companies, industry leaders, diplomats, government officials, and policymakers, to explore new avenues for Indo-French collaboration. It saw participation from both existing and prospective French investors keen to tap into Madhya Pradesh’s expanding industrial and economic landscape, with investment discussions expected to contribute significantly to industrial growth and job creation in the region by 2030 and beyond. The conference commenced with a presentation on Doing Business in Madhya Pradesh: Policy, Incentives & Ease of Access by Mr. Raghwendra Singh , Principal Secretary, Department of Industrial Policy and Investment Promotion, Government of Madhya Pradesh. Discussions throughout the day focused on facilitating investments, strengthening ease of doing business, and fostering partnerships across priority sectors such as energy, infrastructure, defence, communications, IT/ITeS, food and agribusiness, logistics, and supply chain. Addressing the gathering , Mr. Chetanya Kasyap , Hon’ble Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of Madhya Pradesh expressed confidence that deeper collaboration between France and Madhya Pradesh would create new opportunities for industrial growth, innovation, and shared economic progress. Speaking at the event, H.E. Mr . Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India , said, “I am pleased that French large and small companies are leveraging their expertise in key sectors to increase their footprint in the State of Madhya Pradesh, a region with a sustainable growth of 8% that represents close to 5% of India’s domestic product. The Indo-French Innovation Network, a flagship initiative of the India-France Year of Innovation, will drive more French investments in this region enabling companies from France and Madhya Pradesh to further synergise their business to double its GDP before 2030.” A key highlight of the event was a panel discussion on “ Unlocking Madhya Pradesh: Policy, Partnerships & Pathways for Sustainable Investment ”, which explored how policy support, infrastructure readiness, and cross-border collaboration can position the state as a hub for Indo-French innovation and business growth. The panel featured leaders from Soufflet Malt, Sanofi, EDF Nuclear Projects and Dassault Systèmes, moderated by Ms. Axelle Blanchard, Deputy head of the French Regional Economic Department for India and South Asia, Embassy of France in New Delhi. Speaking at the conference, Ms. Payal S. Kanwar, Director General, IFCCI said, “IFCCI is proud to bring its first Investment Conclave to Madhya Pradesh, an emerging growth hub with immense potential for French investments. Our objective is to strengthen Indo-French ties by unleashing new avenues for trade, innovation, and sustainable development across the region.” Senior state Government officials Mr. Anurag Jain, IAS, Chief Secretary, Mr. Neeraj Mandloi, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Mr. Manu Srivastava, IAS, Additional Secretary for the New & Renewable Energy Sources Department, Mr. Raghwendra Singh, IAS, Principal Secretary, DIPIP and Mr. Chandramauli Shukla, MD, MPIDC also joined the interactions. Another key highlight of the event was the series of B2G and B2B meetings held on the sidelines of the conference, facilitating targeted discussions and potential collaborations. To further boost bilateral trade and French investments across India, IFCCI has been actively organising Investment Conclaves in states including Maharashtra, Karnataka, Goa, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Assam. The Madhya Pradesh edition marks another significant step in IFCCI’s ongoing efforts to deepen state-level collaboration, foster innovation-led growth, and create long-term economic value through Indo-French partnerships. About IFCCI Established in 1977, the Indo-French Chamber of Commerce & Industry (IFCCI) is part of a global network of 124 French Chambers (CCIFI) across 94 countries, representing over 37,000 companies. One of India’s most active bilateral chambers, IFCCI promotes trade and investment between India and France through a network of 800 member companies and over 6,500 business leaders. Headquartered in Mumbai, IFCCI has offices in New Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Pune, and Hyderabad.
Why India is turning to slim non-fiction books
Whether bought on impulse, to meet yearly reading goals, or read as introductions to complex ideas, compact books are carving out a larger place in Indian publishing
In pageantry and politics, China summit yields Xis goal equal footing with U.S.
The image of peer superpowers during President Trumps visit displayed a dynamic that analysts say the Chinese have long sought and Americans had resisted.
DCDC Kidney Care Sets Global Benchmark with AACI Accreditation for Badarpur Dialysis Centre
DCDC Kidney Care announced that its Badarpur Centre in Delhi has become the first standalone dialysis centre globally to receive accreditation from the American Accreditation Commission International (AACI) under the AACI Standards Version 6.0 framework. Operational since July 2025, the centre currently serves nearly 70 active patients and conducts approximately 500-550 dialysis sessions every month. DCDC Kidney Care receiving AACI Accreditation The accreditation was awarded following a comprehensive evaluation of the centre’s clinical protocols, patient safety standards, infection prevention and control measures, dialysis care processes, staff competency, quality management systems, operational workflows, and continuous quality improvement mechanisms. The recognition highlights DCDC Kidney Care’s commitment to delivering internationally benchmarked renal care through advanced dialysis technology, standardized treatment protocols, and a strong patient-centric approach. Aseem Garg, Founder, DCDC Kidney Care , said, “ This achievement is a proud milestone not only for DCDC Kidney Care but also for India’s standalone dialysis ecosystem. “It reflects our unwavering commitment towards clinical excellence, patient safety, and globally benchmarked quality care. We remain focused on expanding access to affordable, high-quality dialysis services through technology integration, workforce development, and our growing network across India. This recognition supports our long-term goal of bolstering the nation's dialysis infrastructure via workforce development, technological integration, quality-driven systems, and scalable service delivery models. As we continue to raise standards for patient experience, safety, and infection control throughout our network, we are dedicated to broadening our reach through both public-private partnerships and freestanding centers .” This global AACI accreditation for the Badarpur centre reinforces DCDC Kidney Care’s position as one of India’s leading dialysis networks and underscores its role in making advanced, affordable renal care accessible across the country. Building on its expanding footprint of centres operated through both standalone clinics and public–private partnerships, DCDC Kidney Care will continue to invest in technology, training, and quality systems that improve clinical outcomes and enhance the overall experience for patients and their families. Through its growing network of facilities, technology-enabled monitoring systems, and organized worker training programs, the company has consistently concentrated on enhancing accessibility to reasonably priced dialysis care throughout the years, that offers both enhanced patient satisfaction and clinical excellence. About DCDC Health Services Pvt. Ltd. (DCDC) DCDC is a leading operator of dialysis centers across India, working through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models with state governments to provide treatment for economically disadvantaged populations. With over 250 centers nationwide — including PPP clinics, standalone centers, and units within private hospitals — DCDC continues to expand its reach every year. A pioneer in quality dialysis delivery, DCDC is India’s first organization to receive NABH accreditation for both standalone and PPP dialysis centers, reaffirming its commitment to safe, accessible, and patient-centric care.
Ketan Bhatikar, Goa Congress leader, dies after snake bite
Goa Congress leader Ketan Bhatikar tragically died from a snake bite on Thursday night. The incident occurred at Karmal Ghat while he was travelling towards Dandeli village in Karnataka. Bhatikar was a prominent figure for the Congress during the Ponda assembly bypoll. His sudden demise has sent shockwaves through the party.
Akkodis Recognized in HFS Horizons 2026 Report for Enterprise Ready Agentic AI Services
Akkodis, a global leader in digital engineering consulting and part of the Adecco Group, has been recognized in the HFS Horizons: Agentic Services, 2026 report, which evaluated 36 of the world's leading service providers on their ability to operationalize agentic AI in real-world enterprise environments. Akkodis recognized in HFS Horizons Agentic Services, 2026 report The report positions Akkodis as an Enterprise Innovator, citing its strengths in delivering agentic services grounded in strong data foundations and governed execution. HFS Research notes Akkodis' ability to support enterprise-level transformation, helping organizations scale agentic AI across core workflows while maintaining governance, traceability and operational control, with demonstrated production deployments and measurable business outcomes. From agentic AI pilots to enterprise production Agentic AI represents a shift from AI-assisted productivity to autonomous, goal-driven execution embedded into end-to-end workflows. While adoption is accelerating, many enterprises continue to struggle to scale beyond pilots due to challenges related to data readiness, governance, trust and accountability. The HFS Horizons: Agentic Services, 2026 report examines which service providers are closing this gap by moving agentic AI from experimentation into enterprise production. In its assessment, HFS Research highlights Akkodis' focus on governance, data foundations and execution at scale, emphasizing several strengths: Governed agentic services with measurable impact - Akkodis delivers agentic services that embed governed AI agents into enterprise workflows, improving employee engagement, productivity, and business performance with measurable P&L impact. AI-Core , Akkodis' industrial AI and agent orchestration platform, together with a productized data architecture, enable context-aware agent execution across enterprise environments, supporting production-scale use cases backed by global AI labs and structured adoption programs. Data-led architecture with enterprise governance - Akkodis' data-led agentic architecture is operationalized through a structured, multi-phase data pipeline with built-in governance gates, run-time approvals, auditability, and ROI-led use-case prioritization. Services-as-Software progression - Akkodis is shifting toward Services-as-Software, citing autonomous, reusable agentic components that reduce execution time, increase throughput and accelerate delivery without scaling delivery effort. Demonstrated outcomes cited by HFS Research HFS Research highlights production-level outcomes delivered through Akkodis' agentic services, underscoring the real-world impact of governed agentic execution. In the public sector, the report cites Akkodis' work with an Australian education authority where specialized AI agents cut lesson-plan creation time by 50-60%, reducing administrative effort and enabling educators to focus on higher-value work. In manufacturing, HFS points to deployments where Akkodis' agentic intelligence helped a global client reduce take-back orders by 20-30%, cut scrap by 30-40%, and achieve greater than 90% forecasting accuracy, driving meaningful gains in efficiency, quality and decision-making at scale. " We're proud to be recognized by HFS Research as an Enterprise Innovator in agentic services ," said Jo Debecker, President & CEO of Akkodis . " As organizations move from AI experimentation to real execution, the challenge isn't ambition - it's delivering agentic AI that can run reliably in production . At Akkodis, we focus on engineering-led, governed execution that helps enterprises scale agentic AI responsibly across core workflows with trust, accountability and measurable impact. " "Akkodis brings a distinctive engineering-led approach to agentic services, combining deep technical expertise with industry knowledge to embed intelligent agents into complex product and operational environments, enabling enterprises to move from experimentation to scalable, real-world AI impact, " said David Cushman, Executive Research Leader, HFS . Media contacts Anne Friedrich SVP, Global Head of Communications, Akkodis M. +4915174633470 E. anne.friedrich@adeccogroup.com Lisa Bushka VP, External Communications, Akkodis M. +18604630770 E. lisa.bushka@adeccogroup.com About Akkodis Akkodis is a global digital engineering consulting company that enables organizations to innovate and accelerate by applying technology to redefine how processes and products are developed, powered and optimized. With deep expertise across AI, data, cloud, edge and software engineering, we offer best-in-class technology consultancy. Through our strong, scalable delivery models and specialized talent, we provide end-to-end solutions, from strategy and consulting through implementation. Our commitment to Akkodis Intelligence helps businesses connect the exponential power of technology with the irreplaceable strengths of human thinking and collaboration. Part of the Adecco Group and headquartered in Switzerland, Akkodis brings together 40,000 engineers and digital experts in over 30 countries, with services that span Consulting, Solutions and Academy. With deep experience across the world's major industries, Akkodis empowers businesses to solve complex challenges and achieve sustainable impact. X About the Adecco Group The Adecco Group is the world's leading talent company. Our purpose is making the future work for everyone. Through our three global business units - Adecco, Akkodis and LHH - across 60 countries, we enable sustainable and lifelong employability for individuals, deliver digital and engineering solutions to power transformation and empower organisations to optimise their workforces. The Adecco Group leads by example and is committed to an inclusive culture, fostering sustainable employability, and supporting resilient economies and communities. The Adecco Group AG is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland (ISIN: CH0012138605) and listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ADEN). w ww.adeccogroup.com About HFS HFS Research is a leading research and advisory authority on enterprise transformation, serving Fortune 500 companies with fearless insights and actionable strategies. With unparalleled access to Global 2000 executives and deep expertise in AI, automation, and digital business models, HFS empowers organizations to make confident decisions that create sustainable competitive advantage. For more information, visit www.hfsresearch.com .
Goa Congress leader Ketan Bhatikar dies of snakebite
The Goa Pradesh Congress Committee paid tribute to its party leader and extended condolences to the bereaved family, as well as his friends and supporters
Jude Felix criticises Hockey India for removing PR Sreejesh after just 15 months
Former India hockey captain Jude Felix criticized Hockey India's decision to remove PR Sreejesh as coach after just 15 months, deeming it a wrong move. Felix suggested Sreejesh, a decorated player, could have been instrumental in developing a new generation of goalkeepers. He also questioned the reliance on foreign coaches and the lack of grassroots development in Indian hockey.
US agrees to settle lawsuit that accused Gautam Adani of hiding alleged bribery scheme
New York, May 15: The US government has agreed to settle a lawsuit filed against one of the world's richest people who is accused of duping investors by concealing that his company's huge solar energy project in India was being facilitated by an alleged bribery scheme, according to court filings published Thursday. In the lawsuit filed in late 2024, the Securities and Exchange Commission accused Indian billionaire Gautam Adani and his nephew Sagar Adani both leaders of the energy company Adani Green Energy Limited of promising to pay Indian government officials the equivalent of hundreds of millions of dollars in exchange for government contracts to purchase energy at inflated rates. At the same time, the company secured several billions of dollars from Wall Street investors who were allegedly assured that the company had a robust anti-bribery compliance programme and were given promises from senior management that no bribery would take place. Those actions, the SEC said at the time, violated antifraud provisions of US securities laws. Court documents show that Gautam Adani agreed to pay civil penalties of USD 6 million while his nephew agreed to pay USD 12 million. The proposed settlement doesn't include an admission of guilt. The Adani Group denied the allegations at the time, calling them baseless. Messages left with both the Adanis' attorneys were not returned on Thursday. Criminal charges poised to get dropped Both men were indicted in late 2024 in New York on charges of securities fraud and conspiracy to commit securities and wire fraud. The New York Times and Bloomberg reported Thursday those charges are likely to get dropped. Messages left by The Associated Press with prosecutors for the Eastern District of New York were not returned. The move to drop the charges seemed foreshadowed by events after President Donald Trump was elected to a second term and Gautam Adani lavished him with praise. In March 2025, Trump suspended the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, a law banning business bribes overseas, raising expectations among some in India that the Adanis' case was fatally damaged. Adani's controversial past Gautam Adani became a power broker in the world's most populous nation by building a fortune in the coal business in the 1990s. Over time, the Adani Group embraced a diverse portfolio, investing in key industries like renewable energy, defence and agriculture. With its slogan, Growth with Goodness, the company soon had a clean energy portfolio of over 20 gigawatts, including one of the world's largest solar power plants in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. The Adani Group once set a goal of becoming the country's biggest player in the space by 2030 with plans to invest USD 70 billion in clean energy projects by 2032. Adani's close ties with the government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi sometimes attracted criticism, and short-seller Hindenburg Research, a US-based financial research firm, has accused Adani and his company of brazen stock manipulation and accounting fraud. The Adani Group labelled the claims a malicious combination of selective misinformation and stale, baseless and discredited allegations. After the Brooklyn case was announced, Kenya's president cancelled multimillion dollar deals with the Adani Group for airport modernisation and energy projects. Adani Green Energy withdrew its wind energy projects from Sri Lanka after the island nation sought to renegotiate prices. A French oil giant also paused new investments.
Goas Congress Leader Ketan Bhatikar Passes Away, Leaders Express Condolences
Panaji, May 15: Ketan Bhatikar, a renowned physiotherapist and Congress leader, passed away on Friday morning, sparking a wave of mourning in Goas political landscape. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and several other leaders have expressed their condolences over Bhatikars untimely demise. Reports indicate that Bhatikar was bitten by a snake while stopping at Anmod Ghat ... Read more Goas Congress Leader Ketan Bhatikar Passes Away, Leaders Express Condolences
DDC Anantnag reviews progress on Mission YUVA, HADP, financial inclusion schemes
Anantnag, May 14: District Development Commissioner (DDC) Anantnag, Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat, on Thursday chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the progress of Mission YUVA, the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), and several Financial Inclusion Schemes at Dak Bungalow, Khanabal. The meeting was attended by the CPO, SE KPDCL, ACD, CMO, DD Employment, CAO, CAHO, DFO Social Forestry, ALC, DEPO, DYSSO, EOs of MCs, LBM, representatives of different of departments, District Coordinator CSCs and other concerned officials. During the session, the DDC evaluated the implementation and saturation levels of key financial inclusion initiatives including PM Suraksha Bima Yojana (PM SBY), PM Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PM JJBY), Atal Pension Yojana (PM APY), and PM Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM). The meeting was informed that cumulatively 46303 beneficiaries have been enrolled under these schemes to date with the focus to register most eligible and vulnerable sections of the district. Taking strong note of the low performance of these schemes, the DDC directed Lead Bank Manager to enroll all eligible beneficiaries under PM JJBY, PM SBY, APY and PM SYM Schemes adding these have been tailored to meet the requirements of low income and vulnerable groups. He emphasized that any procedural bottlenecks must be cleared immediately to ensure that the benefits of these government-led initiatives reach the target population without delay. Departments were assigned specific targets and were asked to ensure the enrollment of beneficiaries from their target groups in coordination with the LBM and CSCs in a time bound manner. On flagship initiatives of HADP and JKCIP, department-wise application status, unit establishment, fund utilisation, approval rate, tracking, farm registration and measures to improve credit score and approval rates were reviewed threadbare. The meeting was informed that 34351 applications have been approved under HADP, of which 15525 have established their units, which are being tracked on OTA. Highlighting low performance of certain parameters, the DDC stressed on enhancing coverage, unit establishment, registration of farms and real-time tracking of units on OTA besides ensuring swift disbursal of loan and subsidy components to the beneficiaries. Reviewing Mission YUVA, the DDC said it is a transformative flagship initiative aimed at empowering youth by enabling them to become self-reliant entrepreneurs. He emphasised that the goal is not only to provide financial support but to create a sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem in which youth have access to training, market linkages, guidance, and long-term mentorship. The DDC directed all concerned departments, banks and implementing agencies to enhance the mobilisation and coverage of potential beneficiaries including college students, SHGs, etc. by creating sustained awareness in close coordination with each other adding the mission holds special significance for underprivileged and marginalised youth, needing proper support and guidance to improve their socio-economic conditions. At conclusion, the DDC issued strict directions to all concerned officers to ensure substantial progress on different parameters of all these schemes before the next review meeting.
YWC Th and FC Imphal secured landslide victories to stretch their winning run to two games in the Group B competition of the 16th AMFA Senior Women's Football League today at Artificial Turf Ground, Lamlong Thongkhong In the first match of the day, YWC Th crushed Manipur United FA MUFA by 6 2 goals courtesy of doubles from Thounaojam Martina Devi 40 2', 48' and Sagolshem Ronika 57', 75' Leikangbam Russia 40' and Senjam Alva 80 2' were also on target in YWC Th's victory Malemnganbi Naorem 43' and Herina Basumatary 73' , on the other hand, scored the face saving goals for MUFA Later in the day, FC Imphal demolished ICSA Irengbam by 8 0 goals thanks to a hat trick from Thongam Reshma 17', 31', 40' and a double from Phanjoubam Abema 30', 50' Sarangthem Mathoi 38' , Konthoujam Helena 45' and Chingakham Anjali 65' also chipped in a goal apiece in the team's huge win Source The Sangai Express
NEROCA FC falter 1 3 to Sudeva Delhi FC in relegation scrap
NEROCA FC's battle to stay in I League 2 suffered a major blow as they went down 1 3 to Sudeva Delhi FC at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium this afternoon Having lost 4 times in 7 matches, NEROCA FC entered the field with a do or die approach in their final league match but were undone by two quick Sudeva strikes before the half hour mark before a stoppage time goal deepened their relegation fears It was Rituraj Mohan who put the visitors ahead in the 20th minute before Jajo Prashan doubled the advantage in the 53rd minute Leimapokpam Sibajit Singh scored late in the 85th minute to give NEROCA FC some hope but Md Ejaj Ahamad dashed all hopes of the home side by netting Sudeva Delhi FC's decisive goal five minutes into the stoppage time With the result, NEROCA remain precariously 8th in the table on 5 points from 1 win and 2 draws and their fate will depend on the result of the currently 9th placed GMSC vs 2nd placed FC Bengaluru United match slated for tomorrow afternoon at Neville D'souza Ground Source The Sangai Express
What I saw as a NEET invigilator
I was the examination invigilator of the recently held NEET examinations. The day began with the familiar discipline of a high-stakes testrows of desks arranged with precision, admit cards verified, instructions repeated with clarity. As I moved towards the centre, one detail caught my attention. A few students took stress-related medicines before the examination began. There was no drama in the act, no visible paniconly a practiced routine, as if managing anxiety had become a part of preparation itself. That moment lingered. It was not simply about the examination anymore. It was about what had led these young individuals to a point where calmness needed assistance, where an academic test had acquired such emotional intensity. As the examination commenced, the hall settled into silence. Yet beneath that silence existed a tumult of emotions. One student in the front row appeared composed, turning pages steadily, marking answers with confidence. A few seats away, another student paused frequently, his pen hovering above the sheet as if negotiating with his thoughts. There was a student who adjusted posture repeatedly, another who requested water more than once and a few who maintained an almost rigid stillness. These were not signs of lack of preparation. They were reflections of inner states shaped over months and years. Each desk carried not just a candidate, but a story. The NEET examination is not an isolated event. It is the culmination of an extended journey that often begins early in a students academic life. In many cases, this journey involves a restructuring of education itself. Formal schooling becomes secondary as coaching institutions take precedence. Some parents opt for dummy admissions in higher secondary schools, where the child remains officially enrolled but spends most of the day in coaching centers during school hours. This arrangement is seen as strategic. It allows students to focus entirely on preparation. Yet, it also narrows the educational experience. The diversity of school lifeinteraction, activities, informal learninggradually disappears. The students world becomes structured, focused, and intense. Learning becomes targeted toward performance. Curiosity gives way to repetition. Over time, this environment begins to shape not only academic outcomes but emotional states. The students in the hall represented varied journeys. I shall cite some hypothetical cases. There was a student who had been preparing for two years under a strict routine. His performance had been consistent, yet he carried a visible tension, as if the weight of maintaining that consistency had become burdensome. Another student had taken a drop year after an earlier attempt. Her approach was disciplined, but her eyes reflected a quiet urgency. This was not just an examination; it was a second chance. There was also a student from a modest background whose preparation was supported by significant financial sacrifice. His focus was intense, but it carried an undertone of responsibility that extended beyond personal ambition. A different student, known for high academic achievement, approached the paper with determination, yet showed signs of perfection-driven stresschecking answers repeatedly, reluctant to move forward. These narratives differ in context, but converge in experience. The pressure may arise from expectations, opportunity, comparison, or personal goals, but its presence is unmistakable. Parents play a central role in shaping the preparation process. They arrange resources, select coaching institutions, and often reorganize family routines to support the child. These efforts are rooted in care and aspiration. However, the emotional dimension of this involvement is complex. Parents carry expectationsnot only for success, but for validation of their efforts. Financial investments, time commitments, and personal sacrifices create a sense of urgency. Even when not expressed directly, this urgency can influence the environment at home. In some cases, parents monitor performance closely, seeking improvement through constant feedback. In others, they maintain a quieter presence but experience internal anxiety. The child, in turn, becomes aware of this investment. Preparation is no longer only about personal goals; it becomes intertwined with familial expectations. Stress is an inherent part of any competitive process. However, in the context of NEET preparation, it often becomes prolonged and cumulative. Students engage in extended study hours, frequent testing, and continuous evaluation. Over time, this creates a state of constant mental engagement. Even periods of rest are filled with thoughts of preparation. Anxiety emerges gradually. It may begin as concern before tests, and then extend into everyday thinking. Students may experience restlessness, difficulty sleeping, or a persistent sense of unease. By the time they reach the examination hall, this stress has already taken shape. The presence of stress-related medicines among some students reflects this reality. It indicates that managing anxiety has become an integral part of the process. The NEET ecosystem is deeply influenced by social perception. Success in the examination is widely recognized and celebrated. It is associated with prestige and stability. As a result, comparison becomes inevitable. Students are often measured against peers, relatives, and previous achievers. Conversations in social spaces reinforce these comparisons. Performance becomes a defining factor in identity. This environment can intensify pressure. Students may begin to equate self-worth with results. A good score brings temporary relief, while a lower score may lead to self-doubt. The emphasis shifts from learning to proving. For some students, sustained pressure leads to deeper emotional challenges. They may withdraw from social interaction, reduce communication, or lose interest in activities beyond academics. These changes are subtle and often overlooked, especially when academic engagement continues. Depression in such contexts does not always appear dramatically. It may manifest as fatigue, lack of motivation, or a sense of disconnection. The most concerning outcome is when stress reaches extreme levels. Incidents of self-harm and suicide among aspirants, though not universal, highlight the seriousness of the issue. These events are complex and cannot be attributed to a single cause. They reflect the cumulative impact of pressure, isolation, and perceived lack of alternatives. Amid intense preparation, the development of everyday responsibility often remains limited. Students immersed in structured academic routines may have fewer opportunities to engage in daily tasks that build independence. Their schedules are externally managed, leaving little room for self-directed activity beyond study. Responsibility is cultivated through small, consistent experiencesmanaging time, organizing personal space, contributing to household routines. These experiences shape independence and confidence. Without them, students may excel academically but feel unprepared in broader life contexts. As the examination concluded, the doors of the hall opened, and students began to step out. The atmosphere shifted instantly. Outside, parents waited with anticipation. Their eyes searched for their children, trying to read expressions before hearing words. This moment is critical. A student emerging from the examination hall carries fatigue, uncertainty, and emotional residue. The immediate response they receive can influence how they process the experience. Some parents begin with questionsabout the paper, the number of attempts, and the difficulty level. Though natural, such questions can extend the stress. Others respond with silence, offering water, allowing the child to settle before speaking. This approach provides space for recovery. The difference lies not in intention, but in timing. What the child needs in that moment is reassurance, not evaluation. The end of the examination does not mark the end of the experience. In the hours and days that follow, students may revisit questions, discuss answers, or avoid the topic altogether. Each response reflects an individual coping mechanism. Parents often feel the urge to analyze performance immediately, but this can prolong anxiety. A more balanced approach allows the student to recover before engaging in discussion. The focus shifts from preparation to reflection, from intensity to adjustment. Observing the entire processfrom preparation to examination and beyondraises important questions about the nature of education. Is the purpose of education limited to achieving a specific outcome? Does it adequately address emotional and social development? Are students being prepared for life beyond structured academic environments? These questions do not diminish the value of the examination. They highlight the need for a broader perspective. The journey of NEET preparation involves students, parents, and institutions. Each has a role in shaping the experience. Students require not only academic guidance but also emotional support. Parents need to balance expectation with understanding. Institutions must recognize the importance of mental well-being alongside performance. A balanced approach does not reduce ambition. It sustains it. As the examination hall returned to its quiet state, the images of the day remained vividthe focused faces, the subtle signs of anxiety, the quiet act of taking stress-related medicine, and the moments outside the gate where parents met their children. These moments tell a story beyond the question paper. They remind us that education is not only about knowledge, but about the human experience that surrounds it. The NEET examination will continue to be an important pathway. It will shape careers and futures. But alongside its significance, there must be an awareness of its impact. The goal of education is not only to produce successful candidates, but to nurture individuals who are resilient, balanced, and prepared for life. In the end, an examination may test knowledge. But the journey toward it tests something deeperthe strength of the mind, the support of the family, and the values of the system that guides them. Dr Showkat Rashid Wani, Senior Coordinator, Centre for distance and Online education, University of Kashmir
From practicing on cracked public courts in Compton to becoming one of the greatest athletes in history, Serena Williams built a career defined by resilience, ambition and perseverance through grief, racism, injury and illness. Her story remains a powerful reminder that background does not define potential, and that dreams can survive even in the most difficult circumstances.
Khalid Jamil announces preliminary squad for Unity Cup in London
New Delhi, May 14: India senior mens team head coach Khalid Jamil on Thursday announced the 28-member preliminary squad,which has four goal keepers and eight forwards, for the Unity Cup to be held in London from May 26 to 30. The Blue Tigers are set to assemble in Bengaluru for a brief camp after the []
Full domestic flights keep Goa tourism afloat
Panaji: The ongoing conflict in West Asia has posed significant challenges for Goas tourism sector, resulting in a decrease in international arrivals and the cancellation of flights routed through the Middle East. However, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte highlighted a resilient silver lining following an industry stakeholder meeting on Thursday. He said that domestic flights to []
Goan riders shine at Deccan Conqueror
Panaji: Goan riders Aditya Samant, Aviral Gurung and Sufiyan Khan delivered an impressive performance at the Deccan Conqueror Motorsport competition held in Pune, earning multiple podium finishes and bringing laurels to the state in one of Indias toughest endurance racing events. Aditya Samant of Valpoi emerged as one of the standout performers, finishing 2nd in []
Govt aims to reduce heat wave-linked deaths: Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced a significant government goal. India is actively working to eliminate deaths caused by heat waves. This initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for disaster risk reduction. The focus is on leveraging forecasting and meteorological data to protect lives and property. The aim is to achieve zero casualties from such events.
Stronger push for accountability: Evaluation tightened, faltering CPSEs to face strict penalties
New performance rules for central public sector enterprises are now in effect. Strict penalties will be applied for not meeting corporate social responsibility goals. Delays in paying small businesses will also incur penalties. Failure to prepare succession plans will result in mark deductions. These changes aim to boost accountability and support small businesses. The new parameters are set for FY27.
FC Goa fans try hand at bottle-return tech as DRS drive reaches stadium
Margao: Football and sustainability came together at Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda during the recent FC Goa versus Mohun Bagan match, where football supporters were introduced to live demonstrations of the Goa Deposit Refund Scheme (DRS). As part of a partnership between FC Goa and Goa DRS, a dedicated experience zone was set up []
Why Indias Children Need More Than Just Food
Nutrition in early childhood is among the highest-return investments a nation can make DR. SARATH GOPALAN A five-year-old girl was brought to my clinic not long ago. She seemed to be behind on her milestones, slower to speak, and less engaged than children her age. Her developmental assessment placed her at the level of a three-year-old. Her mother was concerned. The child had not been ill. There was no diagnosis to point to. But when we spoke about the previous two years of COVID-19, the picture became clearer. Prolonged school closure due to lockdown resulting in spending most of her time at home, screens replacing playtime, and meals being simpler and less varied than before. Her brain, in those quiet years, had not received what it needed to grow. She was not an exception. Across clinics, paediatricians and developmental specialists were seeing the same pattern: healthy children, falling behind. Not because of the virus, but because of everything that came after it. The World Health Organisation tells us that 90% of brain development occurs before the age of five, making the early years the single greatest opportunity we have to shape a childs cognitive, emotional, and social future. The neural connections formed during this window strengthen learning, language, memory, and resilience for life. Getting nutrition right in this period is one of the most powerful investments we can make. Micronutrients such as iron, zinc, and selenium, often described as the neuronutrients, are essential for healthy brain development and function. Yet the data tells us a troubling story. Iron deficiency alone affects approximately 50% of children under five in India (NFHS-5). Anaemia was recorded in 67.1% of children aged under five, up from the previous survey. Recent evidence, including nationally representative analysis of children aged 1259 months, found that over 60% had micronutrient deficiencies with or without anaemia. This points to a far wider nutritional gap than haemoglobin counts alone reveal. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid, supports brain architecture, memory formation, and visual development. Choline, another essential nutrient, is now considered essential for brain development. When mothers consume choline during pregnancy, it supports healthy gene activity and cell structure, and growth of key brain regions including the areas responsible for memory and thinking. These nutrients are not optional additions to a childs diet; they are foundational to their potential. The most important nutritional intervention in a childs life begins before birth. Brain development starts in the foetal stage, and a mothers nutritional status directly shapes the neural foundation her child carries into the world. DHA supports neural connectivity in utero; iron and folic acid supplementation during pregnancy reduces the risk of low birth weight and developmental delay. Yet only 44% of pregnant women in India consumed iron-folic acid supplements for the recommended 180 or more days (NFHS-5), a gap that represents an enormous and addressable opportunity. This is why investing in adolescent girls is an investment in the next generation. A well-nourished girl becomes a well-nourished mother, and a well-nourished mother gives her child the best possible start. With 59% of adolescent girls in India anaemic (NFHS-5), prioritising this group through schools, community programmes, and targeted supplementation is one of the effective interventions in the entire continuum of care. Although nutrition is important, brain development requires two parallel inputs: nutritional adequacy and emotional-social stimulation. The pandemic illustrated this powerfully. UNICEF estimates that one in seven children globally experienced significant developmental or learning loss during COVID-19, not primarily from illness, but from the withdrawal of peer interaction, conversation, and play. Screens replaced human connection, and language, motor, and social development suffered. Responsive caregiving, verbal interaction, tactile engagement, and a stimulating environment are neurologically formative and are essential to healthy brain architecture. Early childhood programmes that integrate both nutritional support and developmental stimulation produce outcomes that neither can achieve alone. Indias programme architecture is well-placed to act on it. Programmes like POSHAN Abhiyaan and PM POSHAN already reach millions of mothers and young children across the country. Initiatives like POSHAN Pakhwada demonstrate the power of sustained, community-level mobilisation around nutrition. The delivery architecture, which is the anganwadi network, the frontline workforce, and the community-level reach, is in place. The opportunity now is to deepen what that architecture delivers. With the right training and support, they can expand their role from tracking physical growth to also guiding parents on early stimulation, responsive caregiving, and child development practices. Integrating the WHO and UNICEF Nurturing Care Framework, which connects nutrition, health, safety, early learning, and caregiving into a coherent whole, offers a clear and scientific roadmap for this evolution. It moves the goal from simply feeding children to helping them truly thrive. Nutrition in early childhood is among the highest-return investments a nation can make. When children receive what their developing brains need: the right micronutrients, the right caregiving environment, and the right stimulation, the dividends are lifelong stronger learners, more productive workers, and a more resilient society. India has the ambition of Viksit Bharat. It has the systems. It has the science. What this moment calls for is a shared commitment to treating early childhood nutrition not as a welfare line item, but as the foundation on which everything else is built. (The author is Senior Consultant, Pediatric Gastroenterology at Madhukar Rainbow Childrens Hospital, New Delhi, and President, Nutrition Society of India (NSI). Courtesy: PIB)
Rajasthan Aims for 43,000 PNG Connections in 45 Days
Jaipur, May 15: Rajasthans Chief Secretary V. Srinivasan has set an ambitious target for the states urban gas distribution entities. On Thursday, he instructed them to expedite the distribution of pipeline natural gas (PNG) connections, aiming to connect an average of 1,000 homes daily. The goal is to bring 43,000 homes under the PNG network ... Read more Rajasthan Aims for 43,000 PNG Connections in 45 Days
The Silent Crisis in J&Ks Government Schools
The decline of government schools in Jammu and Kashmir is no longer a distant warning; it is an active, unfolding emergency NASIR RASHEED Across Jammu and Kashmir, from smart cities to remote villages, government schools are falling apart. They stand as sad reminders of broken promises. The paint peels from wet walls, and the buildings offer no protection against the bitter winter cold or the scorching summer heat. Worst of all is the deep silence inside these empty classrooms. A school meant to echo with the chatter of hundreds of children now sees only a handful of students scattered across rows of empty, dusty benches. A couple of overworked teachers shuffle between classrooms, attempting the impossible task of teaching multiple grades simultaneously. This is not an isolated incident; it is a recurring vignette across the Union Territory. The most glaring symptom of this systemic decay is not just the crumbling brick and mortar, but the alarming, unprecedented drop in student enrolment. The classrooms are emptying and with them, the hope for a brighter future. Across India, the education sector is undergoing a vibrant, dynamic transformation, propelled by the visionary National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the progressive National Curriculum Framework (NCF) 2023. The grand, modern visions of the NEP seem like distant mirages to institutions that are struggling daily for basic drinking water, functional toilets and adequate teaching staff. The tragedy of this decline is magnified by the fact that these government schools are not merely alternative options; they are the very backbone of educational development in Jammu and Kashmir. A school cannot function as a sanctuary for learning if the building itself is fighting a losing battle against the elements. In many areas of J&K, government schools suffer from a glaring lack of basic amenities. Students and teachers are forced to endure inadequate, overcrowded classrooms with broken furniture and leaking roofs. Teacher shortages are chronic, exacerbated by instances of absenteeism and the frequent, disruptive deployment of existing teaching staff for non-educational administrative duties. However, the most significant and frustrating issue lies in the systemic paralysis of hiring: there has been no new teacher recruitment in J&K by the Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board (JKSSB) since 2017. Because of this years-long freeze on recruitment, thousands of qualified B.Ed. and M.Ed. professionals are facing a severe unemployment crisis. These are young, driven professionals thoroughly trained in the pedagogy, methodology and philosophy of teaching. While the modern world moves toward interactive, tech-driven and child-centric education, J&Ks government schools remain stuck in the past. Outdated teaching methods relying heavily on rote memorisation continue to dominate, primarily because the majority of teachers lack access to modern teaching resources, digital smart boards or updated teaching-learning materials. Students passing through this fractured system frequently fail to meet basic age-appropriate literacy and numeracy benchmarks, leaving them entirely unprepared to compete with their privately educated peers in the real world. As confidence in state-run education plummets, an unprecedented exodus is underway. Driven by sheer desperation, even low-income families are making agonising financial sacrifices, scraping together whatever meagre funds they can to enroll their children in private institutions. Parents are willing to cut back on basic household necessities rather than gamble with their childrens futures in empty, under-resourced classrooms. Perhaps the most glaring indictment of this systemic failure is a profound, open irony: government school teachers themselves overwhelmingly choose to send their own wards to private schools. It begs a devastating question: if the very educators tasked with running these institutions lack faith in them, how can the public be expected to trust them? Over the past decade, a disturbing administrative trend has emerged where thousands of government schools have been clubbed or merged with nearby institutions, effectively shuttering vital educational hubs across various localities. In a region experiencing steady population growth, logic dictates a proportional expansion of educational infrastructure; instead, Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a paradoxical and alarming contraction. Consequently, a growing number of students, particularly those in geographically challenging areas, are being stripped of their localised access to learning. This systematic closure is not merely an administrative oversight; it is a direct violation of the constitutional guarantees enshrined in Article 21A and Article 45 of the Indian Constitution, which mandate free and compulsory education for children. Furthermore, it blatantly contradicts the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically the global commitment to inclusive and equitable education, thereby reducing what is universally recognised as a basic, fundamental human right into an inaccessible privilege for the regions most vulnerable youth. This mass migration to the private sector does not happen in a vacuum; it leaves behind a devastating trail of widening inequality. It is crucial to recognise that in Jammu and Kashmir, the majority of the population is currently grappling with severe financial instability and a pervasive job crisis. Ultimately, the decay of public education in J&K is not merely an administrative failure; it is an active engine of systemic inequality. It is carving a deep socio-economic chasm where the privileged can buy their way toward a brighter future, while the underprivileged are left trapped in a relentless cycle of limited opportunities and broken promises. To reverse this alarming decline and rescue the future of millions of children in Jammu & Kashmir, piecemeal reforms and temporary administrative bandages will no longer suffice. What is urgently required is a comprehensive, multi-pronged overhaul of the entire government school ecosystem, backed by unwavering political will and grassroots community action. The immediate first step is to ensure that schools are safe, dignified and inviting spaces for learning. A school cannot foster 21st-century learning if its foundation is crumbling. Upgrading these physical spaces sends a powerful psychological message to students and parents alike: that the state values their future. The lifeblood of any educational institution is its teaching staff, and J&Ks schools are currently on life support. The government must immediately lift the indefinite freeze on hiring that has paralysed the system since 2017. Initiating fresh, transparent and expedited teacher recruitment
Punjab FC Retains AIFF Junior League Title with Thrilling Penalty Shootout Victory
Goa, May 14: Punjab FC secured their AIFF Junior League title by defeating Minerva Academy FC 5-3 in an exhilarating penalty shootout. The match ended in a 1-1 draw after regulation time. Played at the Bambolim Athletic Stadium in Goa, this match mirrored last years final, featuring two teams from Punjab once again. Punjab FC ... Read more Punjab FC Retains AIFF Junior League Title with Thrilling Penalty Shootout Victory
DLF to target pre-sale of Rs 20,000 crore in FY27, super-luxury project The Dahlias to lead growth
DLF, India's largest real estate developer, targets Rs 20,000 crore in sales for FY27. The company plans significant project launches in Gurugram, Mumbai, and Goa. Its super-luxury project, The Dahlias, continues to be a key sales driver. DLF ended FY26 with zero gross debt in its development business and a substantial net cash surplus.
IPL 2026: Our Goal Is Still To Win, Says Corbin Bosch As He Backs MI To Finish Strong
Indian Premier League: Mumbai Indians all-rounder Corbin Bosch said the five-time champions remain determined to finish their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 campaign strongly despite being knocked out of playoff contention, insisting that the teams mindset has not changed ahead of the clash against Punjab Kings. Speaking ahead of the crucial encounter, Bosch said the Mumbai Indians are still fully focused on winning matches and ending the season on a positive note. Theres still a real buzz around the group. Weve come here to win. Every time we step onto that field, the goal remains the same, Bosch told broadcasters ahead of the match. The South African pacer admitted the Mumbai Indians have failed to capitalise on key moments during the season, which ultimately cost them a place in the playoffs. Results havent gone our way lately. Weve missed some crucial chances that led to poor results, but today is another opportunity to turn that around. Thats the plan, he added. Bosch also said the squad is motivated by the prospect of upsetting teams still fighting for playoff qualification in the closing stages of the tournament. Wed love to spoil a few parties. Several teams were facing in these final games are fighting for a playoff spot. At the end of the day, our goal is to win and make things difficult for everyone else, he said. Reflecting on his recent bowling performance, Bosch said conditions suited his style, and he was pleased to contribute to the team despite the defeat. Its just one of those things, really. I think the wicket the other day was perfectly suited to my style of bowling, and I was just happy to put in a solid performance for the team. Unfortunately, it wasnt quite enough to get us over the line, but Im glad I could contribute, Bosch said. Bosch also said the squad is motivated by the prospect of upsetting teams still fighting for playoff qualification in the closing stages of the tournament. Wed love to spoil a few parties. Several teams were facing in these final games are fighting for a playoff spot. At the end of the day, our goal is to win and make things difficult for everyone else, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Despite boasting a star-studded lineup and showing early promise, the Mumbai Indians failed to convert their on-paper strength into consistent performances throughout the campaign. Their season has been marked by inconsistency, leaving them ninth on the points table with just six points from 11 matches. Article Source: IANS
Public Provident Fund vs Fixed Deposits vs SIPs: Which one should a first-time investor start?
PPF vs FDs vs SIPs: A first-time investor's choice should depend on your particular financial situation and future goals. Take a look below to assess, which works best for your lifestyle and planned retirement targets
DLF to sell housing properties worth Rs 20K cr in FY27 on strong launch pipeline: MD Ashok Tyagi
DLF Ltd is stepping up its game with a forecast of Rs 20,000 crore in sales bookings for the fiscal year 2026-27. Fueling this aspiration is a dynamic portfolio of new residential developments planned across hotspots such as Gurugram, Mumbai, and Goa.
The Onions Exclusive Interview With JD Vance
Thanks to his swift rise from first-term Ohio senator to next-in-line for the presidency, JD Vance is thought by many to represent the vanguard of the Republican Party. The Onion sat down with the vice president to discuss his views on faith, the Trump administrations goals, and his future ambitions. The Onion: Mr. Vice President, [] The post The Onions Exclusive Interview With JD Vance appeared first on The Onion .
Govt working towards reducing heatwave-related deaths to zero: Amit Shah
New Delhi, May 14: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah today addressed the Presidents Colour Award ceremony of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) in Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad as the Chief Guest. Union Home Secretary, Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), Director General of NDRF and several other dignitaries were present on the occasion. Addressing the gathering, Amit Shah said that the conferment of the Presidents Colour on NDRF is not merely a recognition of the commendable services of NDRF, but also an acknowledgment by the Honble President of the contributions made by SDRFs, the entire machinery from Panchayats to States, NCC, NSS and thousands of Disaster volunteers engaged in service. He said that NDRF personnel go anywhere in the country with the motto Aapda Seva Sadaiv Sarvatra. Shri Shah said that wherever NDRF personnel have gone, in India or abroad, they have earned love and trust. Whenever a disaster strikes or is anticipated anywhere in the country, people feel reassured when NDRF personnel arrive believing that now rescue operations will succeed. Shri Shah said that over the last 20 years since its establishment, NDRF has earned the trust of 140 crore citizens through its successful operations during floods, earthquakes, cyclones and other disasters across the country. He said, the sight of NDRF personnel, who have saved more than 1.5 lakh lives and evacuated over 9 lakh people to safer locations, inspires a strong sense of security and trust. Union Home Minister said that the conferment of the Presidents Colour is recognition of the service, courage, valour and dedication of the entire NDRF. He said that the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and NDRF have established India prominently on the global map in the field of disaster response, which is a matter of pride for all citizens and a special matter of pride for him as the Home Minister of the country. Amit Shah said that projects worth more than Rs. 116 crore were inaugurated and foundation stones laid today. He expressed confidence that these projects would further strengthen NDRFs ability to protect citizens from all kinds of disasters. Union Home Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, since 2014 India has not only worked towards Disaster Risk Reduction, but has now reached a stage where the country can move towards the goal of zero casualty. Wherever prior information about disasters is available through forecasting and the Meteorological Department, the objective is to ensure protection of lives and property. He added that NDMA has taken several policy decisions, issued numerous guidelines, successfully promoted public awareness and gradually making disaster preparedness a national culture. Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that NDRF has set an excellent example by rescuing not only citizens but also speechless animals living alongside them. He said the aim is to ensure zero loss of human life and minimal damage to property during disasters. Amit Shah said that the Ministry of Home Affairs is also fully prepared to effectively tackle serious challenges like heatwaves. He said, the Modi Government is working towards reducing heatwave-related deaths to zero. Amit Shah said that the Ministry of Home Affairs and NDRF have placed great emphasis on capacity building and community participation. NDRF has undertaken the monumental task of training more than 8,500 personnel, over 10,000 civil defence workers and more than 2.20 lakh volunteers. He added that over 10,500 boatmen have also been trained in the last two years. Union Home Minister said that Disaster volunteers would prove highly useful in strengthening community-based disaster response and tackling all kinds of emergencies. He said, earlier, the response while dealing with disaster management was primarily relief-oriented, but the Modi Government has transformed it from being reactive to preventive and productive. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has established the concept of minimizing loss of life and property due to disasters as a global model. Over the last 12 years, disaster preparedness has evolved from being merely a system into a complete ecosystem. From Gram Panchayats to the Government of India, from IMD scientists to ordinary citizens, a new culture of coordinated action towards a common objective has emerged. Amit Shah said that India had witnessed several devastating natural disasters such as the Odisha Super Cyclone, Gujarat earthquake and Indian Ocean tsunami, which shook the lives of people across the country. Which highlighted the need for a robust disaster management framework. Subsequently, the Disaster Management Act was enacted, and NDMA and NDRF were established. He said that with 16 battalions, NDRF has today become a powerful force. Through its working methods, training support to SDRFs and joint operations, NDRF has enhanced its own strength. Measures like proactive deployment and pre-positioning have proved effective in minimizing damage. Shri Shah recalled that the 2008 Kosi floods in Bihar were a major test for NDRF. Subsequently, NDRF successfully handled many disasters such as flash floods in Dharali, cloudbursts in Chasoti, floods in Jammu, Punjab and Delhi, Cyclone Montha and Cyclone Ditwah. He said that NDRF has also worked effectively with society during major events like the Amarnath Yatra, Mahakumbh, Char Dham Yatra, Mani Mahesh Yatra, Sabarimala pilgrimage and the Jagannath Rath Yatra. Union Home Minister said that Prime Minister Modis 10-point agenda and 360-degree approach in disaster management have given a new direction to disaster risk management. It has strengthened areas such as risk mapping, early warning systems, community participation and formulation of guidelines. Shri Shah said that globally, India has emerged as an undisputed leader and first responder in disaster management. The principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam has been translated into practice and implemented on the ground. Inspired by Prime Minister Modi, India has taken global leadership in the field of disaster resilient infrastructure. Today, 48 countries have joined the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) and are working together with India in this direction. Amit Shah congratulated all personnel of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) across the country and said that since 2021 CAPF personnel have planted more than 7 crore trees nationwide. He said that this reflects the humanitarian outlook and environmental awareness of all CAPFs.
Railway Board pulls up zones over poor pace of environmental initiatives, orders fast-track efforts
Indian Railways is pushing for faster execution of environmental projects. The Railway Board has urged all zones to complete these initiatives effectively and on time. This is crucial for achieving the goal of becoming a Net Zero Carbon Emitter by 2030. A significant fund was allocated last year, but progress has been slow.
Art Basel Hong Kong 2026: Where The World Comes To See
Between the harbour and the convention hall, between tradition and the digital frontier, Art Basel Hong Kong set the tone for a new era. Robb Report India was there — with two of India's most compelling creative voices, artist Siddharth Kerkar and sculptor Jayesh Sachdev. Art Basel Hong Kong 2026 Inside the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre—its glass façade staring out over Victoria Harbour like an eye fixed on the horizon—the art world had once again gathered for its annual communion starting March 25, 2026. Art Basel Hong Kong, now in its 13th edition, returned with 240 galleries from 42 countries and territories. Over half of participating galleries operate spaces within the Asia-Pacific region, a fact that underscores how regional voices are echoing louder than ever before. Preview days on March 25 and 26 drew a high-density turnout of collectors, curators, institutional buyers, and the curious. By the time the public doors opened on March 27, Asia’s largest art fair had already closed many deals. Robb Report India visited the fair grounds on the preview day for a closer look. The fair offered a particularly immersive, almost educational vantage point. Robb Report India exclusively covered Art Basel through the lens of two artists whose relationship with art is anything but passive or touristic: Siddharth Kerkar, the Goa-based artist, restaurateur, and founder of India's largest affordable art festival; and Jayesh Sachdev, the Pune-based sculptor and founder of Quirk Box, who recently collaborated with Zara—the first Indian artist to do so, across an art-fashion-sculpture partnership. New Sectors, New Conversations The 2026 edition introduced Echoes, a sector dedicated entirely to works made within the past five years. At Double Q Gallery's Hong Kong debut, Polish Minimalist Natalia Zauska transformed the booth into an immersive work of geometric abstraction. Picture edges dissolving between two- and three-dimensions. At Max Estrella, Madrid, Tiffany Chung's embroidered maps of ancient spice routes hung alongside Miler Lagos' astonishing sculptures of books carved into dense, geological forms. Hyun Nahm's work at Whistle fused classical East Asian aesthetics with digital materiality, drawing on the Korean concept of chukgyeong—encompassing nature’s vastness into miniature forms—to compress ideas about telecommunication infrastructure and global digital consumption into compact sculptural form. Encounters, the sector dedicated to monumental installations, underwent a transformation. For the first time, this section was curated collectively by four Asia-based curators led by Mami Kataoka, alongside Isabella Tam, Alia Swastika, and Hirokazu Tokuyama. Their organising framework was the Five Elements, the cosmological system found across Asian traditions, with each element—space/ether, water, fire, wind, earth—assigned to specific areas throughout the convention halls. Perhaps no addition to the 2026 fair generated as much conversation as Zero 10, Art Basel’s global initiative dedicated to art of the digital era, making its Asia debut after launching at Art Basel Miami Beach in December 2025. Named for Kazimir Malevich’s seminal 1915 exhibition, it featured 14 exhibitors and asked a simple, urgent question: How can digital art be exhibited, contextualised, and collected within today’s art economy? Curated by Eli Scheinman and featuring 14 exhibitors including Art Blocks, bitforms gallery, and Silk Art House, the sector asked hard questions about provenance, and community in an age where digital culture evolves faster than institutional frameworks. One moment stood out: DeeKay's digital animations that traced psychological states through vivid, almost hallucinatory movement. The work was unabashedly algorithmic and yet unmistakably emotional, a combination that felt like a precursor of where image-making is headed. Hong Kong Art Basel 2026: Through Indian Eyes Sachdev, whose practice moves between painting, sculpture, mythology-driven installations, and works rooted in ancient Indian iconography and rendered in chrome, glass, and reflective contemporary surfaces, arrived in Hong Kong attuned to a frequency the city answered immediately.“ What I like about cities like this—which are really modern—is that you can still find the contrast of them being so deeply rooted culturally. These are ancient cultures which have now built into contemporary architectural and urban spaces. That dichotomy is very interesting ,” he says. Inside the fair’s halls, he found his own reflections in unexpected places, including the work of Fung Studios, a Singapore-based design agency whose graphic work, carrying both Japanese and Southeast Asian influences, had long been a reference in his own practice. “ It was very interesting to see some of that here,” he said while speaking to Robb Report India. The fair’s embrace of multimedia, mixed media, and architectural installation formats also sat well with an artist who refuses to be categorised by medium alone. “My work is not bound to one medium ,” he noted. “ I don’t just work with paint or sculpture alone, so this place having a mix of all those different mediums was something I quite enjoyed .” Kerkar, a Central Saint Martins alumnus who has navigated art fairs since childhood—accompanying his father, the celebrated Goan artist Subodh Kerkar, to exhibitions across Europe and as far as the Venice Biennale—arrived with practised eye. By the time Art Basel’s halls had been traversed, his tally included at least 10 museums and well over 100 gallery booths. What he came away with was not a list though. “ You don’t know what stays with you or where inspiration comes from ,” he says in conversation with Robb Report India. For Kerkar, the act of absorbing is slow and cumulative, a process that often only reveals itself later alone, scrolling back through photographs taken in the heat of the fair. What Kerkar absorbed at the fair was less any single work than a cumulative shift in material sensibility—the reappearance of textile, of slow craft, of the handmade in contexts where one might have expected the digital to dominate. The Encounters sector, in particular, gave him pause: the yarn and fibre works by Tandel and Kang representing a return to matter, to touch, that he found both unexpected and necessary. Between Kerkar’s patient, cumulative absorption and Sachdev’s immediate, parallel-drawing responsiveness, what emerged was a portrait of two very different artistic temperaments arriving at the same conclusion: that Hong Kong, in this particular week, was worth every hour of attention it demanded. For Indians, Art Basel Hong Kong is no longer simply a fair to watch from a distance. With Indian artists appearing in Encounters, Indian institutions making acquisitions, and collectors from the subcontinent increasingly visible on the floor, the conversation has shifted from observation to participation. If this edition proved anything, it is that the week belongs as much to India as it does to any other nation at the table. The only question worth asking now is whether you'll be in the room when it happens again.
Frederic Soyez replaces Sreejesh as junior mens hockey team coach
Sreejesh, a former star goalkeeper, was removed from his role just after 17 months following the expiry of his contract after guiding India to a bronze medal-finish at last year's FIH Junior World Cup
China, Arab states deepen innovation cooperation
Since the first China-Arab States Summit in 2022, China and Arab states have taken the goal of building a China-Arab ...
Inter Miami Triumphs Over FC Cincinnati 5-3 with Messis Two Goals
Cincinnati, May 14: Inter Miami CF secured a thrilling 5-3 victory against FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium, thanks to two goals from captain Lionel Messi, along with contributions from Mateo Silveti and German Berterame. This win earned Miami three valuable points. With this victory, Inter Miami matched FC Cincinnatis record of 22 points from the ... Read more Inter Miami Triumphs Over FC Cincinnati 5-3 with Messis Two Goals
89 killed as storm, rain batter UP; relief work underway
Lucknow, May 14: At least 89 people were killed after a strong storm and heavy rain pounded several districts of Uttar Pradesh, uprooting trees and electric poles and damaging houses, according to the Relief Commissioner's office. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took cognisance of the loss of lives and damage caused by the unseasonal rain, thunderstorms and lightning on Wednesday and directed officials to ensure relief reaches the affected families within 24 hours. In a post on X on Thursday, the Relief Commissioner's office said, Due to bad weather on May 13, including storms, rain, hailstorm and lightning, reports of 89 deaths, 53 injured persons, 114 livestock losses and damage to 87 houses have been received in the state, which has been taken cognisance of by the Hon'ble Chief Minister. It said the chief minister has directed all divisional commissioners and district magistrates to verify the incidents with full sensitivity and ensure financial assistance is distributed to affected families within 24 hours while establishing direct communication with them and extending other necessary help. The Relief Commissioner's office said it is continuously monitoring the situation through direct coordination with district officials and necessary funds are being made available to districts. According to a list issued by the Prayagraj district administration, seven deaths were reported in the Handia area, four in Phulpur, three in Soraon, two in Meja and one in Sadar due to the storm and rain. In Bhadohi, district administration sources said at least 16 people died in storm-related incidents. Additional District Magistrate Kunwar Virendra Kumar Maurya said trees and electric poles were uprooted in several areas while many houses were damaged in the storm. Fatehpur Additional District Magistrate Avinash Tripathi said nine people were killed and 16 injured in storm-related incidents in the district. Eight people, including five women, died in Khaga tehsil, while a woman died after a wall of a house collapsed in Sadar tehsil, he said. In Pratapgarh, four people died in separate incidents of wall and cemented shed collapses and lightning strikes amid strong winds and rain, officials said. Superintendent of Police Deepak Bhukar said Bhim Yadav (25) died after he was trapped under the debris of a cemented shed that collapsed in Ojha Ka Purwa village in the Lalganj Kotwali area. He said Bhushan Pandey (56) died after a wall collapsed in Sari Swami village under the Baghrai police station area. Bhukar said Shanti Devi (46) of Narangpur village and Lal Bahadur (44) of Chhatrapur Shivala Raghna village also died in storm-related incidents. In Kanpur Dehat district, two persons died in rain-related incidents, the officials said. Police sources said a 19-year-old woman, Ruchi, died after being struck by lightning in Bhauthari village under the Rasulabad area while standing under a neem tree with goats during heavy rain. Several goats also died in the incident. A 60-year-old man standing nearby was injured, they added. Additional District Magistrate (Finance and Revenue) Dushyant Kumar said reports regarding human and livestock losses have been sought from local officials and financial assistance will be provided as per government rules. In Deoria, Komal Yadav (62), a resident of Bhimpur Gaura village, died after being struck by lightning, district administration sources said. Two others were injured in the incident. In another incident, Ramnath Prasad (65), a resident of Neruari village, died in a lightning strike. In Sonbhadra district, Madhav Singh (38) died after being trapped under a tree uprooted during the rain and the storm. Adityanath directed the district magistrates and officials of various departments to visit the affected areas and provide all possible assistance to the victims and their families. He also instructed the officials to remain alert and ordered the revenue and agriculture departments, along with insurance companies, to conduct a survey of the damage and submit a report to the government.
Numero AI acquires Royu in cash-and-stock deal
The combined entity will be building agentic platform for the finance and controller functions in enterprises with goal of shifting tasks from manual to automated.
Deportivo Alavs Shocks FC Barcelona with 1-0 Victory
Madrid, May 14: FC Barcelona, fresh off their La Liga title win, faced a surprising 1-0 defeat against Deportivo Alavs. The match showcased Barcelonas struggle, likely influenced by their recent celebrations. The only goal of the game came from Ibrahim Diallo in the dying moments of the first half. The Alavs striker capitalized on a ... Read more Deportivo Alavs Shocks FC Barcelona with 1-0 Victory
Inter Milan Clinches 10th Coppa Italia Title with 2-0 Victory Over Lazio
Rome, May 14: Inter Milan secured their 10th Coppa Italia title with a 2-0 victory against Lazio. This win marks a historic domestic double for Inter Milan this season. Earlier in May, Inter Milan had already claimed their 21st Serie A title with three matches remaining. The first goal came from Marcus Thuram, whose impressive ... Read more Inter Milan Clinches 10th Coppa Italia Title with 2-0 Victory Over Lazio
Ronaldo made to wait for first Saudi league title after bizarre own-goal in final seconds
In a thrilling encounter, Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr team clinched a 1-1 draw against rivals Al-Hilal thanks to a last-minute own goal. With the Saudi Pro League title hanging in the balance, Al-Nassr remains in the lead by a five-point margin, needing only a win against Damac to claim the championship.
ELCOMA (Electric Lamp and Component Manufacturers Association of India) and Ace Exhibitions have announced a strategic partnership to launch the “Lighting World & Home Tech Expo” — India’s first dedicated platform for advanced lighting solutions and next-generation home technology. The announcement was made at a grand curtain-raiser held at India Habitat Centre, where the two organisations signed an MoU and hosted a panel discussion on “The Future of Smart Lighting & Home Tech in India” featuring industry leaders, policymakers, and technology experts. L to R Anupreet Singh Jaggi, Sudeshna Mukhopadhyay, Mohit Sharma, Parag Bhatnagar, C. Arun Kumar, Amal Sengupta The inaugural edition of the Expo will be held from 14–16 January 2027 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Designed as a high-impact B2B and B2C platform, the Expo will showcase the complete ecosystem of lighting and smart living technologies — from lamps, luminaires, and components to automation systems, AV integration, energy management, and connected home solutions. Parag Bhatnager, Anupreet Singh Jaggi The initiative comes at a time when India’s lighting and smart home sectors are witnessing rapid growth. The Indian lighting market, valued at approximately USD 3.83 billion in 2025, is projected to reach USD 5.12 billion by 2031. The smart lighting segment is expected to witness exponential expansion, growing from nearly USD 1.2 billion in 2025 to over USD 11.5 billion by 2034, driven by increasing adoption of IoT-enabled systems, human-centric lighting, and voice-controlled automation. Simultaneously, India’s smart home market is projected to grow from USD 5.2 billion in 2025 to USD 24.1 billion by 2031, fuelled by urbanisation, rising disposable incomes, affordable IoT adoption, and increasing demand for connected living solutions. Speaking on the occasion, Parag Bhatnagar, President, ELCOMA, said, “The lighting industry in India is evolving rapidly towards intelligent, connected, and sustainable systems. Through this partnership with Ace Exhibitions, we aim to create a dedicated platform that promotes innovation, industry collaboration, and future-ready technologies aligned with India’s smart infrastructure goals.” Amal Sengupta, Secretary General, ELCOMA, added, “The convergence of smart lighting and home automation is transforming the sector. This Expo will provide manufacturers, designers, and integrators with a valuable forum to exchange ideas, showcase interoperable solutions, and address emerging industry standards and opportunities.” Sharing his vision for the event, Anupreet Singh Jaggi, Managing Director, ACEXM7 Events Pvt Ltd., said, “The Lighting World & Home Tech Expo is designed to bridge the worlds of lighting and home automation under one dynamic platform. The event aligns closely with national initiatives such as the Smart Cities Mission and India’s broader sustainability goals. We envision it as an annual flagship event that drives business growth, encourages innovation, promotes ‘Make in India’ products, and positions Delhi-NCR as a hub for smart living technologies.” The 3 day Expo will feature exhibition halls, technical seminars, buyer-seller meets, innovation showcases, awards, and workshops on emerging technologies including Li-Fi, circadian lighting, AI-driven automation, and net-zero building solutions. About ELCOMA ELCOMA is the apex industry body representing manufacturers of lamps, lighting fixtures, and components in India. Established in 1970, the association works closely with government and industry stakeholders to promote quality standards, technology advancement, and energy-efficient solutions. About Ace Exhibitions Ace Exhibitions, a division of ACEXM7 Events Pvt Ltd / M7 Creations, is a leading organiser of specialised trade fairs and consumer expos across lifestyle, technology, and home solution sectors in India.
PhD Student Of BITS Pilani Goa Dies By Suicide, 7th Case In 18 Months
Arjun Sabu, a second-year PhD student at the institute, was found hanging late Tuesday night, police said.
Xi Jinping, Trump to Meet in Beijing for High-Profile Summit
Stability in the relationship is the main goal of the two-day summit
Senior Women's Football League YWC L, ESU register comprehensive wins
The Young Welfare Club, Langthabal YWC L crushed MPSC by 7 1 goals as Eastern Sporting Union ESU , Wangkhei Palace Compound prevailed 5 1 over UPSA, Pukhao in today's Group A matches of the 16th AMFA Senior Women's Football League at Artificial Turf Ground, Lamlong Thongkhong Sorokhaibam Silky shone with a treble 38', 64', 69' in YWC L's dominating win over MPSC today while Lourakpam Seityamala 20' , Wairokpam Daina 23' , Chingangbam Binomala 45 3' and Yumnam Luxmi 84' contributed a goal apiece The consolation goal for MPSC was scored by Ningombam Chanchan 21' YWC L, who had won 1 0 over ESU and trounced UPSA 7 0 in the previous matches, eventually emerged Group A winners Later in the day, ESU rode on Maibam Jasmine 36', 38' , Athokpam Luxmi 22' , Anjali Gurumayum 66' and Laitonjam Chitarani 80' to sink UPSA 5 1 The solitary goal for UPSA was scored by Yaireiphi Yangya in the 37th minute With the result, ESU who beat MPSC 3 0 in the previous encounter, were able to finish Group A runners up on 6 points Source The Sangai Express
There is a widespread demand in the Valley that Nasha Mukt Abhiyan , a transformative initiative, should not be restricted only to drugs or substance abuse. There is a groundswell of opinion that it be extended to consumption of alcohol also. The aggressive anti-drug campaigns, Nasha Mukt , stands in stark contrast to the state-facilitated expansion of alcohol consumption especially under central administration in 2018-19. If a substance causes social harm, the response should be consistent based on that harm. Just because alcohol is legal, doesnt make it any less harmful. Interestingly, while drinking alcohol is not prohibited and punishable by law, drunk driving is. Getting drunk is not a offence, but getting into a drunken brawl is! But there is a history to this anomaly. It is not based on the moral codification of a society but by the Anglo-Saxon legal tradition. Alcohol production, taxation, and consumption have been protected by centuries of English customary law and royal charters. In this legal framework, adopted by India like all colonies, banning alcohol requires dismantling an ancient, foundational pillar of common liberty and commerce, including revenues to the government. Conversely, drugs have no such historical legal precedents in Western law, making them easy to ban without disrupting traditional legal framework. Also, with drugs being barred, government uses it to expand its surveillance, policing, and incarceration. It strengthens control over the marginalized populations. In the current context, this is a key element in the narco-terror network of Kashmir. Given the history, the drug-and-alcohol contradiction is not an easy one to resolve. From a government policy makers perspective, the focus must be on public health outcomes and individual autonomy. Of course, the political leadership of government may have purely religious or moralistic reasons, but those are personal. The public policy goal is minimising the physical, social, and economic damage caused by addiction. A complete ban or prohibition is not an optimal solution. It must be acknowledged that total prohibition often creates dangerous black markets. The historical lessons of cross-country experience on prohibition are that banning alcohol may not stop consumption. Instead, it will likely lead to the sale of toxic illicit liquor and empower the criminal syndicates. This consequence cant be ignored, especially in Kashmir which could get sucked into the vortex of narco-terror network. It could be a much higher risk than is being discounted. In the context of Kashmir, all the stakeholders, the party in power and the opposition parties should insist that addiction is viewed as a medical condition rather than a moral failing or a criminal act. This done, it will be advocating for more rehabilitation centres instead of just seizures of property and arrests of peddlers. Of course, it goes without saying that if the state wants to fight addiction, it must address the root causes which lie in the thirty-year conflict-related trauma and economic distress. The current compliance framework in Kashmir is the opposite: the state employs the heavy-handed tools as a punitive measure against alleged drug addicts and peddlers. The problem is that an offence -- violation of a regulation is being punished as a crime breaking a codified penal law. The stringent action of the government is welcome but let it not be punitive. For that replaces the social necessity of rehabilitation. If the objective of the state is truly the social reintegration of its citizens and the eradication of a public health crisis, it should not render families homeless and push the marginalized families further into the shadows of the illicit economy. The seized and sealed houses should be repurposed into community-run rehabilitation centres or vocational training hubs. By turning a site of alleged crime into a site of recovery, the state would signal a commitment to healing rather than just retribution. Furthermore, the coercive nature of these drives ignores the cultural and historical nuances of substance use in the region. The current war on drugs is often framed through a lens of moral purity that disregards Kashmirs own history. For centuries, opium, hashish and weed were not viewed through the prism of modern criminality. True, there were no drugs of today heroin, brown sugar, and the rest. The tradition of Takiyas -- social spaces where cannabis was consumed -- formed a part of the local cultural fabric. Under the Dogra regime, hashish was a regulated trade item, and a significant part of the states export economy. To suddenly criminalize these substances through a lens of absolute moralism and religion is to ignore a long-standing indigenous cultural practice. Perhaps the origin of this practice pre-dates Islam as the Vedas list it as a sacred plant. The cultural tolerance in Kashmir stems from the deep-rooted association with Shiva worship. Sadhus emulate Shivas ascetic especially when on the Amarnath yatra, which is due to start in a few weeks. As thousands of sadhus traverse the Valley, the consumption of weed and hashish becomes a common sight and smell right along the pilgrimage route. The state, which at other times might arrest a local youth, always turns a blind eye to sadhus using chillums during Amarnath yatra, Kumbh Melas, and other holy sites. Ultimately, a liberal, rationalist critique of the J&K drug policy must highlight that coercion is not a substitute for care. Moving from a confiscation model to a rehabilitation model requires recognizing that addiction is a byproduct of complex socio-economic traumas. Addicts are neither criminals nor traffickers. Until the state resolves the contradictions between its punitive spectacles and its public health promises, the social intervention movement of Nasha Mukt will remain an exercise in state power rather than a genuine pursuit of social wellness. Footnote: As Finance Minister in 2016, I opposed the ban on liquor on the floor of the house on the grounds of individual liberty and freedom of choice. Revenues was not the main consideration then. It should not be so now. Prohibitions and bans reflect a majoritarian attitude that prioritises collective morality and political agendas, be it alcohol or beef. Even so, contrary to the exceptionally ill-informed and singularly insolent National Conference spokesperson, who reads intent in information on underserved areas, not a single new liquor vend was opened from 2015 to 2018. There was a surge in 2018-19 under the central watch. The numbers are in public domain. I had also suggested then that a regional ban in the Kashmir Valley is a pragmatic policy option. The real issue is that it risks fostering a black market and bootlegging, especially given the proximity to high-consumption areas like Jammu and Punjab. A decade later, the demand for ban on alcohol has more to do with identity as Muslims. Considering this major shift, and the gravity of the situation, a re-examination and a creative solution may be needed. Tail piece: Once in a while, on some days family events like a death anniversary, or commemoration of an Islamic event like Jung-e-Badr , a community ritual of Khatm on the 11 th day of Rabi-us-Sani , (Dastgeer Sahibs urs) -- food would go from our house in Gogji Bagh to a Takiya at Sarai Bala next to the mosque. Nothing very elaborate; rice along with Rogan josh or organ meat like charvan or payas for about 10 to 12 patrons of the Takiya the shodas . Some money would also go with it. Takiyas historically served as retreats for dervishes and mendicants but eventually became synonymous with cannabis culture and marginal social groups. T akiyas were in existence in the 1970s and even 80s. In a way, historically, there was normalisation of opium, hashish and weed, in Kashmir. Not as an addiction or epidemic and medical condition but as an unconventional or non-conformist behaviour. Not deviant or criminal. Modernisation applied a moralizing gaze to these spaces, and they fell into disuse. The author is a Contributing Editor of Greater Kashmir.
Appeals for economic discipline
At a time when the price of crude oil is increasing due to the U.S.-Iran conflict, supply chains are experiencing strain and inflation is threatening the global economy, Prime Minister Modis call for individuals to consume responsibly and to have discipline in their economies was not simply political talk. His call was a reminder that national resilience does not just depend on government policies but that it also depends on the collective participation of the public. Today, India is one of the fastest growing major economies in the world, but it continues to heavily rely on imports for important goods such as crude oil, edible oils, and fertilizers. Currently, India imports approximately 85% of its crude oil requirements and as a result, every geopolitical crisis occurring in West Asia poses an economic issue for households across India. Therefore, the Prime Ministers call to reduce fuel wastage and increase usage of public transportation is practical and visionary. Furthermore, during the COVID-19 pandemic, India became very adept at working digitally from home and meeting online via the Internet, which reduced commuting costs and demand for fuel. Hence, encouraging the use of work-from-home and virtual meetings again during an energy crisis is a sensible step that balances economic prudence with advances in technology. In addition, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of Over the past decade, significant achievements have been attained by India in respect of industrial development through projects like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat. The production of mobile phones, defence items, renewable energy-related goods, and digital technologies has all increased at high rates. Buying Indian made products is viewed as an expression of faith in Indias ability to manufacture industrial products and it can often be an emotional choice as well. The reason for PM Modi to promote the elimination of extravagant spending on overseas travel, such as foreign vacations and destination weddings, is meant to save foreign exchange reserves, which are desperately needed during difficult global economic times. This message was particularly important for rural Indians. PM Modi discussed the fact that the fertilizer subsidies provided by the government have allowed Indian farmers to avoid paying the tremendous increase in fertilizer prices that have been experienced on a worldwide basis. Modis commitment to natural farming, decreased reliance on chemical fertilizers, and greater reliance on solar power to irrigate crops demonstrates that economic self-sufficiency can be achieved while meeting the environmental sustainability legacy goal. The results of these reforming initiatives will be critical for the future of agriculture in India, especially given the challenges facing the world as a result of climate change and declining soil productivity. Some may consider the Prime Ministers message symbolic, while other countries have emerged better and stronger after experiencing catastrophes. An example would be Japans successful efforts in conserving energy as a result of the oil shocks in the 1970s and Indias successful demonstration of following public health advice as a cohesive society during the COVID crisis; both nations were able to create a secure place for the country during very uncertain times. The PMs appeal to eliminate extravagance and practice mindful consumption will ultimately create a culture of sustainability, responsible consumption, patriotic consumption and self-sufficiency through preparedness rather than isolation. Indias rise to become a world super power will be determined not only by the United Nations reports on GDP and/or actions taken by government, but also daily choices made by each citizen. PM Modis message should help remind every citizen of their duties to conserve resources, support their local economy and contribute to the overall health of the economy.
Semi-high-speed train project to turn Gujarat into manufacturing and logistics hub: Amit Shah
NEW DELHI, May 13 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said the Cabinet approval for the Rs-20,667 crore Ahmedabad (Sarkhej)-Dholera semi-high-speed double rail line project is a powerful testament to Prime Minister Narendra Modis visionary goal of transforming the country into a hub of connectivity, innovation and manufacturing. In a post on X, Shah said the project will play a crucial role in establishing Gujarat as a global centre for manufacturing and logistics, while also generating significant employment. [] The post Semi-high-speed train project to turn Gujarat into manufacturing and logistics hub: Amit Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Capacity Building Key To Strong Economy, Says Naidu
The chief minister said Andhra Pradesh could achieve its long-term development goals only by sustaining a 15 per cent growth rate and adopting a modern, data-driven governance framework.
Sreejesh slams HI after removal as India U-21 coach, questions preference for foreign coaches
Former India goalkeeper PR Sreejesh voiced disappointment after his removal as junior men's team coach. His 17-month tenure saw five medals in five tournaments, including a Junior World Cup bronze. Sreejesh questioned Hockey India's continued reliance on foreign coaches, citing a preference for overseas expertise over Indian talent for national development.
7 sewage lines sealed near Mala lake, HC told
Damaged pipeline flowing waste into lake to be fixed: CCP Panaji: In the suo motu Public Interest Litigation concerning dead fish found floating in Mala Lake, the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) on Wednesday informed the High Court of Bombay at Goa that multiple illegal sewage connections had been discovered during inspection in []
GoAir dues: Banks slash reserve price of Thane plot
Minerva Academy Crowned AIFF Sub-Junior League Champions
Chennai, May 14: Minerva Academy FC has claimed the title of the AIFF Sub-Junior League 2025-26 with an impressive 4-1 victory over Classic Football Academy. On Wednesday, at Scamper Park in Mahabalipuram, Minerva Academys Khutheifam Mukhtar Rahman opened the scoring in the 8th minute with a stunning Olympico goal, curling a corner directly into the ... Read more Minerva Academy Crowned AIFF Sub-Junior League Champions
What began as a local hip-hop jam titled The Dopest Dance Battle of the Year last year returns for its second edition as a national-level event, with dancers and judges from across India. The event will be held on May 16, 5 p.m. at The Piston Wolves Goa, Calangute. It is organised by Dance Concept []
Chef and entrepreneur Alan DMello is all set to launch the international division of Chef Tours at the Worldchefs Congress 2026, where he will use food, travel, workshops, and storytelling to build a cultural bridge between Goa and the world KALYANI JHA | NT BUZZ When nearly 900 chefs, educators, and culinary institutions from more []
Amazon devices chief says a new smartphone is just not the goal
We know what customers need right now.
We did not fire Sreejesh: Hockey India responds after legend's explosive allegation
Hockey India clarified that legendary goalkeeper PR Sreejesh's tenure as junior men's coach concluded as per contract, denying claims of him being fired. The federation stated his position was advertised and a new coach selected on merit. An alternative development role was offered but declined. Hockey India emphasised its commitment to developing Indian coaches.
Manish Raisinhani Reflects on His Journey at Cannes Film Festival
Mumbai, May 13: The buzz around the Cannes Film Festival is palpable, yet few know that popular television actor Manish Raisinhani has already made his mark on the international stage. Manish Raisinhani and actress Avika Gor attended the Cannes Film Festival primarily in 2016 and 2017. Reflecting on that period, Raisinhani shared that their goal ... Read more Manish Raisinhani Reflects on His Journey at Cannes Film Festival
Trump, Xi to weigh tariff cuts on $30 billion of imports in managed trade push
An exciting trade initiative is on the horizon as America and China collaborate to redefine commerce concerning everyday products. With a proposed reduction of tariffs on goods estimated at 30 billion dollars, the goal is to stimulate trade dynamics while maintaining national security.
Another BITS Goa Student Death Raises Concern After Seventh Case in Two Years
Police sources informed that a note was recovered from the flat and further investigation is in progress
From India Pacer to Minister: Ashok Dinda Begins New Innings as Bengal Sports Minister
The political change in West Bengal has a cricket connection also. Former India pacer Ashok Dinda emerged victorious in the Assembly elections again in Moyna, his birthplace (by 16,241 votes) after his maiden victory in 2021 (by 1260 votes). He donned the India cap in 13 ODIs and 9 T20Is with 12 and 17 wickets, respectively. He took at least one wicket in each of nine T20Is he played, with a career-best 4 for 19 coming in a handsome victory against Sri Lanka in Kandy in 2012. Ashok Dinda is yet to forget all his detractors, who had ridiculed him following an unceremonious ouster from the Bengal team just before the start of the 2019-20 Kanji Trophy. In recent times, he also served as one of the coaches in the Cricket Association of Bengals Vision Project but now has some added responsibility in the states sporting arena, as he has been appointed as the new sports minister of West Bengal. Ashok Dinda had joined politics after ending his playing career in 2021, ahead of the Assembly elections. Incidentally, on the same day, India cricketer Manoj Tiwary joined Trinamool Congress (TMC) and, after his win, was appointed West Bengal's New Sports Minister, although an active cricketer and captained Bengal in the Ranji Trophy. Now Ashok Dinda holds the same portfolio. West Bengal will have another cricketer as their Sports Minister as Manojs predecessor in the ministry was Laxmi Ratan Shukla, another familiar name in Indian cricket. In cricket, Ashok Dinda shall always be remembered as a forgotten star who deserved a Test cap. He was part of KKR in 2008 and played 78 IPL games for five different franchises, claiming 69 wickets at an expensive bowling average of 30+ and higher economy rates. After being with KKR between 2008 and 2010, he got a one-year stint at Delhi Daredevils in 2011 before switching to Pune Warriors India in 2012. Ashok Dinda stayed with that franchise until their dissolution in 2013. In 2014, he joined Royal Challengers Bangalore for a two-year stint and ended with the final two-year stretch with Rising Pune SuperGiant in 2016 and 2017. He remains one of the most successful fast bowlers in domestic red-ball cricket as he picked up 420 wickets in just 196 innings. In the Ranji Trophy, he was a stalwart for Bengal, grabbing 339 wickets. Among pacers, only R Vinay Kumar, Pankaj Singh, Basant Mohanty, Madan Lal and Ashish Winston Zaidi had more wickets than Dinda in the Ranji Trophy. His domestic show opened the door for white-ball internationals between 2009 and 2013, but Test cricket opportunity eluded him. Born on March 25, 1984 in Kolkata, Dinda had a powerful and complex bowling action and made his first-class debut in 2005. The right-arm speedster made his India debut in December 2009 in a T20I against Sri Lanka in Nagpur. He continued to play first-class cricket until 2019, featuring 116 of them with the last fixture in 2021. He also took 151 wickets in 98 List A games at an average of 28.50. In 2020, Ashok Dinda left Bengal for Goa but played only one season for his new team before retiring in February 2021. Incidentally, most of the cricketers joining politics recently have some Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) connection. Gautam Gambhir is the leader of the pack and is joined by Laxmi Ratan Shukla, Manoj Tiwary, Ashok Dinda and Yusuf Pathan. A very popular story related to Ashok Dinda is his encounter with Sachin Tendulkar in the Ranji Trophy final between Bengal and Mumbai in 2007. The bowlers in domestic cricket never thought of sledding the Master Blaster but the young Ashoke Dinda glared at Tendulkar after hitting him on the elbow. Deep Dasgupta, the captain of Bengal at the time, had already advised him, 'With Sachin, you just come and bowl' but Dinda had the habit that whenever he would beat the batter, he would just take 2-3 extra steps in his follow-throw and glare at him. Deep categorically told him again, 'Don't say anything to Sachin but Dinda didnt listen to his captain. He stared at Sachin after a few deliveries, and Sachin eventually scored a hundred (105). Mumbai won the match by 132 runs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Now Ashok Dinda has a new challenge in front of him. I come from a sports background, not politics. Representing India was a matter of pride. But politics is also about serving people, living among them, and helping them. Its a blessing, a gift from God. Not everyone gets this opportunity. Many people have wealth, but they dont get the chance to serve. Helping someone get hospital care, supporting families who cant afford medicine, that is something truly meaningful, he says.
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Goal attainment and youth aspirations are not aligned
Keeping track of youth aspirations against the systems ability to match them is critical if the country is serious about creating a productive labour force
English Premier League deepens India push with grassroots coaching focus
The Premier League is shifting its India focus from youth tournaments to grassroots coach development, aiming for sustainable impact. The Next Gen Coach Programme in Goa, building on past initiatives, empowers local coaches to reach thousands of young players. This strategic move prioritizes scale and lasting influence over one-off sessions, fostering a deeper connection with Indian football.
Amid Split Rumours, Mouni Roy's Old Comment 'What's The Point Of Prolonging This Fight' Goes Viral
Mouni Roy married Suraj Nambiar on January 27, 2022, in Goa
U.S. Lawmaker Introduces Bill to Empower Women Economically in South Asia
Washington, May 13: U.S. Congresswoman Julie Johnson has introduced a bill aimed at strengthening womens economic security in South and Central Asia. This legislation directly links this initiative to broader U.S. foreign policy and regional stability goals. The proposed bill, titled the Empower Act, seeks to establish U.S. policy that promotes womens economic security and ... Read more U.S. Lawmaker Introduces Bill to Empower Women Economically in South Asia
New Bill Aims to Empower Women Economically in South Asia
Washington, May 13: U.S. Congress member Julie Johnson has introduced a bill aimed at strengthening womens economic security in South and Central Asia. This legislation directly links the initiative to broader U.S. foreign policy goals and regional stability. The proposed bill, named the EMPOWER Act, seeks to establish U.S. policy to promote womens economic security ... Read more New Bill Aims to Empower Women Economically in South Asia
Trump set to meet with Xi in Beijing as war, inflation weigh on his presidency
Beijing, May 13: President Donald Trump is set to arrive in Beijing on Wednesday for a state visit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping at a restless moment for a world worried about war, trade and artificial intelligence. We're the two superpowers, Trump told reporters as he departed the White House on Tuesday. We're the strongest nation on Earth in terms of military. China's considered second. While Trump likes to project a sense of strength, the state visit occurs at a delicate moment for his presidency as his popularity at home has been weighed down by the US and Israel's war with Iran and rising inflation as a consequence of that conflict. The president is seeking a win by signing deals with China to buy more American food and aircraft, saying he'll be talking with Xi about trade more than anything else. The Trump administration hopes to begin the process of establishing a Board of Trade with China to address differences between the countries. The board could help prevent the trade war ignited last year after Trump's tariff hikes, an action China countered through its control of rare earth minerals. That led to a one-year truce last October. But Trump comes to Beijing at a time when Iran continues to dominate his domestic agenda. The war has led to the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, stranding oil and natural gas tankers and causing energy prices to spike to levels that could sabotage global economic growth. The US president declared that Xi didn't need to assist in resolving the conflict, even though Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was in Beijing last week. We have a lot of things to discuss. I wouldn't say Iran is one of them, to be honest with you, because we have Iran very much under control, Trump told reporters Tuesday. Taiwan and trade are high on the agenda The status of Taiwan also appears to be a major topic as China is displeased with US plans to sell weapons to the self-governing island that the Chinese government claims as part of its own territory. Trump told reporters Monday that he would be discussing with Xi an USD 11 billion weapons package for Taiwan that the US administration authorised in December but has not yet begun fulfilling. The US leader has demonstrated greater ambivalence toward Taiwan, an approach that's raising questions about whether Trump could be open to dialling back support for the island democracy. At the same time, Taiwan as the world's leading chipmaker has become essential for the development of AI, with the US importing more goods so far this year from Taiwan than China. Trump has sought to use Biden-era programs and his own deals to bring more chipmaking to America. Trump says relationship with Xi is on solid footing But Trump was already portraying the trip as a success before he left White House grounds. He openly mused about Xi's planned reciprocal visit to the US, lamenting that the ballroom under construction would not be completed in time. We're going to have a great relationship for many, many decades to come, Trump said of the US and China. As you know, President Xi will be coming here toward the end of the year. So that would be exciting. I only wish we had the ballroom finished. Trump said he had spoken with the Chinese leader and the meeting would be positive as he embarked with a coterie of aides, CEOs and family members. He will arrive in China on Wednesday evening and, after a ceremonial greeting, go to his hotel. He will attend a state banquet Thursday and have a working lunch with Xi on Friday before returning to the US. Despite Trump's outward confidence, China appears to be entering the meeting from a much stronger place, said Scott Kennedy, a senior adviser on Chinese business and economics at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington think tank. China would like to reduce tech restrictions on accessing computer chips and find ways to reduce tariffs, among other goals. But even if they don't get much on any of those things, as long as there's not a blow-up in the meeting and President Trump doesn't go away and look to re-escalate, China basically comes out stronger, Kennedy said. Trump wants a three-way nuclear arms deal Trump also intends to raise the idea of the US, China and Russia signing a pact that would set limits on the nuclear weapons each nation keeps in its arsenal, according to a senior Trump administration official who briefed reporters ahead of the trip. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity under ground rules set by the White House. China has previously been cool to entering such a pact. Beijing's arsenal, according to Pentagon estimates, exceeds more than 600 operational nuclear warheads and is far from parity with the US and Russia, which each are estimated to have more than 5,000 nuclear warheads. The last nuclear arms pact, known as the New START treaty, between Russia and the United States expired in February, removing any caps on the two largest atomic arsenals for the first time in more than a half-century. As the treaty was set to expire, Trump rejected a call by Russia to extend the two-country deal for another year and called for a new, improved, and modernized deal that includes China. The Pentagon estimates China has more than 600 operational nuclear warheads and will have over 1,000 by 2030.
Action Plan for Revenue Goals Set by Commissioner
Udaipur, May 13: In a recent virtual review meeting, Commissioner Pragya Kevalramani emphasized the need for a solid action plan at the beginning of the financial year to ensure timely achievement of revenue targets. The meeting included district collectors and departmental officials from all districts in the division. During the meeting, the Commissioner highlighted that ... Read more Action Plan for Revenue Goals Set by Commissioner
FC Imphal, Manipur United FA win in 16th AMFA Senior Women's Football League
FC Imphal thumped Kangchup Road Young Physical and Sports Association KRYPHSA , Naoremthong 2 0 as Manipur United FA MUFA overwhelmed ICSA, Irengbam 9 1 in today's Group matches of the ongoing 16th AMFA Senior Women's Football League 2026 27 In the third Group B match of the tournament being underway at Artificial Turf Ground, Lamlong Thongkhong, FC Imphal opened their campaign with the 2 0 win against KRYPHSA thanks to goals coming from Konthoujam Helena Devi 36' and Phanjoubam Abema 69' In another Group B encounter, Manipur United FA came out all guns blazing to prevail 9 1 over ICSA Herina Basumatary and Thoudam Malemnganbi shared a bulk of 7 goals in this lopsided match to help MUFA, who played out a 1 1 draw with KRYPHSA in the opening match sealed the comprehensive win Mongjam Pushparani opened the floodgate early in the 11th minute before Herina Basumatary slammed home three goals on the trot 25', 27', 29' to make it 4 0 till halftime Thoudam Malemnganbi joined the onslaught after the restart and made it 5 0 after 54 minutes before Herina completed her haul of four goals by converting a penalty kick in the 70th minute Malemnganbi returned to action to further swell the lead to 7 0 with her second goal in the 72nd minute before ICSA Irengbam pulled back a goal through Oinam Bisheshwori in the 78th minute Thingnam Babysana who subbed in for Laisham Lamjinglembi after 44 minutes then retained the 7 goal lead for MUFA in the 80th minute with a clinical finish before Malemnganbi rounded off the scoring in the 88th minute Source The Sangai Express
Walking Through a Textbook of Medicine at 100 Miles an Hour
There is a particular moment in every anaesthetists career when you stop relying on instinct and start relying on memory. You remember the rare biochemistry result, the obscure syndromic presentation, or the third-line drug you last read about in the British Journal of Anaesthesia five years ago. In the United Kingdom, those moments are infrequent. At SKIMS (Sheri Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences), serving the entirety of Jammu & Kashmirs two Union territoriesa vast, rugged population of nearly 12 million peoplethose moments happen before breakfast and dinner. I came from a well-oiled NHS trained in top tertiary centres like University College London and Cambridge Centre and working as a consultant for 20 years in district General and private practice. I left my comfort zone somewhere over the Himalayas. What I found at SKIMS was not just a job; it was a two-month immersion into the very marrow of clinical medicine. And it has been, to put it mildly, incredible. I have found the current director of SKIMS as inspiring leader surrounded by inspiring teams of heads of departments, to mention least Dr Akbar Shah, Dr Arif Hamid, Dr Iqbal, Dr Sons Ullah Shah and all other faculty acknowledging their strengths and weaknesses and have a plan to improve the quality of care for patients and staff well-being The Clinical Kaleidoscope In the UK, we pride ourselves on protocol. In SKIMS, they pride themselves on survival. Because this hospital is the apex referral centre for 12 million soulsfrom the mountainous reaches of Ladakh to the dense urban warrens of Jammuthe pathology is unlike anything in the West. You do not see the common cold here. You see the end-stage, the neglected, and the miraculous. You see a young adult with a stroke flown from Ladakh or a child with massive intracranial bleeding requiring urgent craniotomy. Walking through the ICU or the pre-operative wards is like walking through a living, breathing textbook. One bed presents a case of rheumatic heart disease with multi-valvular pathology and infective endocarditis youve only seen in black-and-white photographs. The next bed holds an airway anomaly that UpToDate doesnt have a chapter on, such as a motorbike accident with Atlanta axial dislocation and major head injury. By lunch, youve managed the anaesthetic for a patient with a giant mediastinal mass causing tracheal deviation so severe youd think it was an MRI simulation. You dont have the luxury of saying, Lets wait for the MRI. You dont have the luxury of saying, We need more nurses. You look at the patients eyesfilled with a quiet, desperate hopeand you say, Lets figure it out. Shibuya Crossing at Shift Change If you have never seen the pedestrian scramble at Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo, imagine a tsunami of humanity pausing for a red light, then exploding in every direction simultaneously. That is the patient flow at SKIMS. The volume is biblical. The outpatient registration line starts forming before dawn, wrapping around the dusty approaches to the hospital. Inside, the corridors are a river of humanity. Stretchers weave through families sleeping on mats. Porters shout for clearance. Relatives carry patients on their backs because the lift is broken. As a consultant anaesthetist, you learn to stop seeing the flow as chaos. You see it as a living organism. You cannot stop it. You can only steer it. The turnover rate in the operating theatres would make an English efficiency expert weep with envyor terror. One patient is extubated, and before they are even through the double doors, the next is pre-oxygenating on the stretcher. There is no bed management phone call that lasts ten minutes. There is a nod, a shout, and a prayer. The Staff: Passion Over Pay This brings me to the hardest part of this article to write: the staff. The human resources are inadequate. Let me be blunt. The ratio of nurses to patients would trigger a union investigation in the UK. The number of anaesthetic assistants is a fraction of what the Royal College would mandate. The non-medical staffthe housekeepers, the porters, the clerksare run ragged. And yet. They stand all day. They stand every day. I have watched DM doctor of intensive care, running on zero hours of sleep and a cup of chai, manage six post-op patients, screaming relatives and demanding faculty, and a crashing blood pressure all at once. When HOD offered him a break for few hours from the next training shift, he smiled. Not a grimace. A real smile. What an incredible passion for Dr Murtaza They are held together by passion. A visceral, unshakeable commitment to the Hippocratic ideal. They do not have the toys we have in the NHS. They do not have the staffing ratios. But they have a work ethic that shames the developed world. After the most brutal daya day where they lost brother in law of their ex colleague working now in Australian healthcare as a result of major road traffic accident with severe head and neck injury with witnessed cardiac arrest at the scene despite their best efforts, a day where I personally ran through three lots of emotions as I knew his brother in law too I walked past the intensive care ward. The junior doctors were still there reviewing ECGs.Some by the light of a mobile phone reviewing X-rays and scans because the screen lights were out of order. They looked up and smiled. That smile is the most terrifying and beautiful thing I have ever seen. It is the smile of people who have realised that resources are nice, but willpower is essential. The Transaction of Hope The dynamic between patient and provider here is different. In the UK, there is often a consumer-provider expectation. I pay my taxes; fix me. Here, there is hope. Pure, unadulterated, heart-breaking hope. The patientsevery single one of themexpect the doctor to look at them. They expect the nurse to touch their hand. They have often travelled for three days on a bus to reach SKIMS. They have sold a goat or borrowed from ten neighbours to afford this visit. When you walk in wearing scrubs, you are not just a doctor. You are the last stop before the abyss. I have seen an incredible Head of Intensive Care intervening in the middle of ward rounds to ring for free tests for a patient who had put his ordeal on some Facebook page to fund their care I have learned that you do not need a 50,000 monitoring suite to provide dignity. You need to look them in the eye. You need to explain why the surgery is risky. You need to hold the mask yourself. What I Learned (and Tried to Give) I arrived thinking I would teach advanced monitoring and protocol-driven care. I quickly realised that protocol is a luxury of volume control. SKIMS taught me resilience. It taught me to anaesthetise a patient for an emergency laparotomy without a blood gas machine because the reagent strips ran out. It taught me to manage a difficult airway with a Macintosh blade and sheer patience because the video laryngoscope was in the other theatre. They just received their own fibre optic bronchoscopes after incredible efforts by HOD and Director SKIMs.Well done. I tried to contribute small things: infection control habits, a few checklists, a better handover system. I tried to show them that a tired doctor makes mistakes, so perhaps that smile could be bigger after an actual cup of tea. But they taught me more. They taught me that medicine, stripped of its glossy administrative layers, is just a human being lying on a table, looking up at you with hope, while another human being (massively underpaid, massively overworked) stands beside you with a smile. If you are a UK anaesthetist who feels jaded by targets, audits, and the endless paperwork of the NHS, come to SKIMS. Come to the land of 12 million. Come to the Shibuya Crossing of sickness. Just be ready to walk through that entire textbook. And bring your own smile. Youre going to need it. I am so grateful to the institute and all its staff for providing me with an opportunity to learn and contribute. I love you all. You are all doing an amazing job. Dr M Y Latoo MBBS FRCA (London ), Consultant Anaesthetist (UK Trained), has spent 2 months as a visiting consultant at SKIMS
As fertility rate falls, genetic testing in pregnancy gains urgency
Srinagar, May 12: J&Ks total fertility rate is just 1.4, well below the replacement level of 2.1 and among the lowest in India. Every pregnancy has become increasingly precious. In this scenario, the health experts underline, thoughtful genetic testing and counselling during pregnancy becomes critical. Genetic testing is no longer a luxury but practical tools to safeguard maternal and newborn health, says Prof Shahnaz Taing, former Head of the Department of Gyneacology and Obstetric, GMC Srinagar. A leading voice in maternal-fetal medicine, Prof Taing said genetic and chromosomal conditions such as Down syndrome and thalassemia can be identified early. This can enable informed decisions, better planning and reduced long-term disability in family and society. Prof Taing said it is very common for couples to have only one child or at the most two in Kashmir. As practitioners, it is our responsibility to facilitate better, healthier, more viable outcomes for each pregnancy, she said. Prof Taing said in low-resource settings like Kashmir, genetic testing can dramatically improve outcomes without straining already limited healthcare resources. However, it must be used selectively, she said. Genetic testing is not a single procedure but a stepwise toolkit, she said. It starts in first-trimester with ultrasound with nuchal translucency measurement. In second-trimester, we must do the anomaly scan, maternal serum screening, and Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) from maternal blood. It is highly accurate for common trisomies yet still a screening tool, she said. Then come the diagnostic tests that confirm the condition. These include the Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) in early pregnancy or amniocentesis in mid-pregnancy. It is followed by karyotype, microarray or targeted gene tests as, and if needed. In a place like Kashmir, where resources are constrained, layered and high-value approach is needed. It begins with accessible, high-quality ultrasound and basic screening. The advanced testing must be reserved for higher-risk cases. Considerations, Prof Taing said, must be congenital heart disease, growth restriction or hydrops suspicions. This allows timely referral to equipped centres and planned delivery with neonatal support. It also avoids last-minute crises in areas where NICU beds and paediatric surgery remain scarce, she said. An abnormal ultrasound strikes as a bad-news, and leaves families in limbo. Genetic confirmation clarifies risks and guides further investigations. Tests like fetal echocardiography helps prepare the families emotionally and financially. Targeted testing must be carried out for high-risk pregnancies. Cost of NIPT and confirmatory tests and long travel to tertiary centres coupled with, shortage of trained counsellors, social stigma and late antenatal booking are major barriers. Prof Taing said ethical and culturally sensitive counselling is Non-Negotiable. However, she stressed that testing must remain voluntary and non-directive. Our goal is to help families have a better chance of a healthier progeny, and now, it is possible with better counseling and planning powered by tests, she said.
Chinese proverb of the day: Excessive talking without clear purpose often yields no real progress, much like climbing a tree to catch fish. This Chinese proverb emphasizes that effective communication requires aligning words with meaningful action and purposeful direction. True achievement stems from efficient effort matched to specific goals, not just prolonged discussions.
Kuki and Zomi Organizations Reiterate Demand for Union Territory in Manipur
Imphal, May 13: The Kuki National Organization and the Zomi Reunification Organization have reaffirmed their demand for a Union Territory with a legislative assembly, a goal established after May 3, 2023. This position will remain unchanged until further decisions are made. The Kuki National Organization, a coalition of various Kuki insurgent groups currently under a ... Read more Kuki and Zomi Organizations Reiterate Demand for Union Territory in Manipur
No fuel shortage in Goa, confirm petrol dealers, urge conservation
Panaji: The Goa Petrol Dealers Association (GPDA) has clarified that there is sufficient availability of petrol and diesel across the state, following Prime Minister Narendra Modis call to reduce fuel consumption amid the ongoing West Asia conflict. Urging residents to ignore rumours of a shortage, the association confirmed that Goas petrol pumps maintain a 15-day []
Goa to launch Indias 1st panchayat-level carbon profiling in three villages soon
Shahin Bepari Lambe Panaji: In a first, the state will soon begin carbon profiling and sectoral analysis at the panchayat level under the Net Positive Panchayat (NPP) initiative, with pilot projects planned in Calangute, Harvalem and Caurem-Pirla. The initiative is aimed at making panchayats become climate-resilient, low-carbon and self-sustaining communities by building awareness and technical []
Goan nurse Raksha Parvatkar gets Florence Nightingale Award
Panaji: Raksha Parvatkar, ward sister in-charge, RHTC, Mandur was honoured with the National Florence Nightingale Award by President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday on the occasion of International Nurses Day. Health Minister Vishwajit Rane said, On the occasion of International Nurses Day, this is a moment of immense pride for Goa and the entire healthcare fraternity []
Goa logs one of warmest May nights in over a decade
Panaji records 29C night on Monday as humidity pushes up discomfort Panaji: Goa experienced one of its warmest May nights since 2012 as the temperature in Panaji touched 29C on Monday, 2.5C above the normal minimum temperature of 26.5C for this time of the year. As per data, it is the seventh instance since 2016 []
Commodity Derivatives vs. Equity Derivatives: Understanding the Differences
If youre into trading or investing, youve probably come across derivatives. They can be a great way to manage risk, hedge your bets, or even make quick profits. But not all derivatives work the same way. In India, two major derivatives stand outcommodity and equity derivatives. While both let you trade based on price movements, theyre used for different reasons and involve different risks. Some traders stick to commodities like gold or crude oil, while others prefer stocks and indices. Which one makes sense for you? 1. What Are Commodity and Equity Derivatives? Both commodity and equity derivatives are financial instruments that derive value from an underlying asset. However, their fundamental structure and market behaviour vary significantly. Commodity Derivatives Commodity derivatives are contracts that derive their value from physical goods such as gold, silver, crude oil, wheat, and other raw materials. These instruments are primarily used for hedging against price volatility and are commonly traded on exchanges like MCX (Multi Commodity Exchange) and NCDEX (National Commodity & Derivatives Exchange). Common commodity derivatives include: Equity Derivatives Equity derivatives, on the other hand, are financial contracts based on stocks or indices. Traders use these instruments to speculate on price movements or hedge their portfolios against market downturns. Common types of equity derivatives: 2. Market Participants and Their Objectives Both commodity and equity derivatives attract different sets of investors and traders. Commodity Market Participants Equity Market Participants The core difference here is that while commodity derivatives often involve physical delivery, equity derivatives are purely financial instruments without any actual stock exchange at expiry in most cases. 3. Volatility and Risk Factors Risk levels in commodity and equity derivatives differ due to the nature of their underlying assets. Commodity Derivatives Risks Equity Derivatives Risks While both categories carry risks, commodity derivatives are often more influenced by external economic conditions, while equity derivatives are tied to market trends and company performance. 4. Trading Exchanges and Regulations The regulatory environment and trading platforms for these derivatives also vary. Commodity Derivatives Exchanges Equity Derivatives Exchanges Both segments are regulated by SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India), ensuring investor protection and market stability. 5. How a Share Price Calculator Helps in Derivative Trading A share price calculator is a crucial tool for equity derivative traders, helping in decision-making by estimating potential profits and losses based on stock price movements. Benefits of Using a Share Price Calculator Using a share price calculator, traders can make informed decisions and better manage their risks in derivative markets. 6. Profitability Potential: Which One Offers Better Returns? Profitability in commodity and equity derivatives depends on market knowledge, timing, and risk management. Commodity Derivatives Equity Derivatives For investors with limited experience, equity derivatives may be a more familiar and accessible choice. 7. Investment Horizon: Short-Term vs. Long-Term Commodity and equity derivatives differ in how long investors typically hold positions. Investors should assess their financial goals before selecting which derivative market suits their needs. 8. Who Should Invest in Which? Investors should choose between commodity derivatives and equity derivatives based on their experience and financial objectives. Conclusion Both commodity derivatives and equity derivatives provide opportunities for traders to benefit from price fluctuations. However, they operate in distinct markets, carry different risks, and require varying levels of expertise. Investors can build a robust trading strategy that aligns with their financial goals by selecting the right derivative instrument based on risk tolerance and market knowledge.
Inter Kashi Holds Mohun Bagan Super Giant to Goalless Draw in ISL Clash
Kolkata, May 13: In a thrilling encounter in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26, Inter Kashi managed to secure a goalless draw against Mohun Bagan Super Giant on Tuesday. Despite dominating possession for most of the match, the Mariners failed to breach Inter Kashis disciplined defense, leaving both teams with just one point each. Following ... Read more Inter Kashi Holds Mohun Bagan Super Giant to Goalless Draw in ISL Clash
Large companies must pay micro and small enterprises on time. This eases their working capital and reduces funding costs. Managing the current account, financing it, and preventing currency depreciation are key macroeconomic goals for FY27. The West Asia crisis presents a balance of payments stress test.
Choosing the Right Instant Loan App: What You Need to Know Before Applying
Type your paragraph here Imagine a world where you no longer have to worry about the financial well-being of your loved ones. A world where no matter what happens, your familys dreams, goals, and stability remain intact. Thats exactly what life insurance offersa safety net for the future. Life is uncertain, and while we cannot predict whats ahead, we can certainly prepare for it. A life insurance policy is a crucial financial tool that ensures your familys financial security, even in your absence. Its not just about covering risksits about providing peace of mind, wealth creation, and protection for the people you love the most. Lets understand what is life insurance, how it works, and why having it is a must for every responsible individual. What is Life Insurance? Life insurance is a contract between an individual (policyholder) and an insurance company, where the insurer promises to pay a sum of money to the nominee in case of the policyholders untimely demise. In exchange, the policyholder pays regular premiums to keep the coverage active. A life insurance policy is more than just a death benefitit can also serve as an investment tool, offering financial returns at the end of the policy term. Depending on the type of plan you choose, it can help with income replacement, retirement planning, child education, or even wealth accumulation. Now, lets understand this concept through a simple story. Why Life Insurance Matters Meet Rahul, a 35-year-old IT professional with a wife and two children. Rahul was the sole breadwinner, earning 1,00,000 per month. Unfortunately, he met with an accident and passed away. Scenario 1: Without Life Insurance Rahuls family struggled to meet day-to-day expenses. His childrens education was at risk, and his wife had to take up multiple jobs to make ends meet. The home loan of 30 lakhs became an additional burden, leading to financial distress. Scenario 2: With a Life Insurance Policy Had Rahul taken a life insurance policy worth 1 crore, his family would have received a lump sum amount to manage their expenses. His childrens education, household costs, and loans would have been covered, allowing his family to maintain their lifestyle without financial strain. This is why having a life insurance policy is essentialit provides a financial cushion in difficult times. Key Benefits of Life Insurance 1. Financial Security for Your Loved Ones The primary purpose of life insurance is to provide financial security to your family. Whether its replacing lost income, covering outstanding loans, or ensuring your childrens future, it acts as a strong safety net. 2. Wealth Creation and Savings Certain life insurance policies help in wealth accumulation. Plans like Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs) or endowment policies allow you to grow your money while staying protected. 3. Tax Benefits A life insurance policy offers tax deductions under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, allowing you to save up to 1.5 lakh annually. Additionally, the maturity benefits and payouts under Section 10(10D) are tax-free, ensuring you get maximum financial benefits. 4. Retirement Planning With pension plans and annuity-based life insurance policies, you can ensure a steady income post-retirement. This guarantees a comfortable life even after you stop working. 5. Coverage for Accidents and Critical Illnesses Many life insurance plans come with add-on riders that provide additional coverage for accidental death, disability, or critical illnesses like cancer or heart disease. These benefits help in managing unexpected medical expenses. 6. Debt Protection In case of sudden demise, a life insurance policy ensures that your debts, such as home loans or personal loans, do not become a financial burden for your family. 7. Peace of Mind Above all, life insurance offers peace of mind. Knowing that your loved ones will be financially stable, no matter what happens, is one of the biggest reasons to invest in a good insurance plan. Types of Life Insurance Policies Understanding different types of life insurance policies can help you choose the right one: Term Insurance Offers pure risk cover with no maturity benefit. Its the most affordable option. Endowment Plans Provide life coverage along with a savings component. Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs) Offer investment opportunities alongside life cover. Money Back Plans Provide periodic payouts along with life insurance. Whole Life Insurance Covers the policyholder for their entire lifetime. Retirement Plans Provide financial support post-retirement. How to Choose the Right Life Insurance Policy? When selecting a life insurance policy, consider these factors: Assess Your Needs: Determine the coverage amount based on financial goals and dependents. Compare Policies: Look for policies that offer the best benefits at affordable premiums. Understand the Riders: Opt for additional riders like accidental death or critical illness coverage. Check the Insurers Reputation: Choose a reliable company like Aviva India, known for its customer-centric services and high claim settlement ratio. Read the Terms Carefully: Understand the policy details, exclusions, and maturity benefits before signing up. Final Thoughts Life insurance is not just a financial toolits a commitment to your familys future. It ensures that your loved ones remain financially secure, even when you are not around. Whether its securing your childs education, planning your retirement, or simply ensuring peace of mind, a life insurance policy is a must-have in every financial portfolio. Investing in the right life insurance today can safeguard your familys tomorrow. So, dont waitsecure your future with a well-chosen policy that meets your needs!
'HAVE WE ACHIEVED OUR IRAN WAR GOALS?': Durbin GRILLS Gen. Caine, Hegseth over Strait of Hormuz
Investment planning is crucial for financial stability, involving assessment of current finances, risk tolerance, and future goals. Here are key factors investors need to keep in mind while forming strategy.
In a recent workshop, I heard several instructors urging young people to consider some hard facts regarding their career and educational choices. Degree is not destiny and your certificate is not your ceiling were often-repeated exhortations in the conference hall. What happens when degrees fail to fetch jobs or meaningful work? Academic Krishna Kumar argues that the driving force behind the urge to obtain more and more degrees lies within our education system and economic structures. It also can be located in collective psychology, and mental attitudes. The need to delink degrees from jobs was recognised in the 1980s, but little progress was made for several reasons. As far as the NEP 2020 is concerned, one can only say that there is a lot of noise on the stairs, but no one is in the room. Degree Disease Contrary to efforts aimed at delinking degrees from employment, I see a growing clamour for foreign degrees even after obtaining one locally. Pertinently, under the new policy, young people are allowed to pursue dual degrees. Part of the blame for this hangover lies with the erstwhile colonial state, which, for its own purposes, introduced a system of education that was not in sync with the needs and educational traditions of the subcontinent. The British needed babus to run the administration, and after 1947, the change was merely from white sahibs to brown sahibs. Eminent British sociologist Ronald Dore, in his celebrated book The Diploma Disease, explains the craze for more degrees, certificates, and diplomas. Instead of looking into behavioural psychology for answers, he links the phenomenon to the devaluation of qualifications. The problem of joblessness further fuels the urge to acquire new credentials. Prof. Krishna Kumar argues that the volatility of the job market creates anxiety among young people, compelling them to become eligible for as many jobs as possible. This, in turn, opens the path for acquiring multiple degrees in the vast education bazaar. This mad race for certificates wastes and exhausts the energy of young people, most of whom depend on parental finance and advice. Unfortunately, the obsession with accumulating degrees has given birth to what experts call the time-pass generation youth who merely count days and nights while waiting for a job and experiencing restless boredom. The colonial framework of education also made us hesitant to work with our own hands. Time-Pass Generation It was during his fieldwork in the Meerut region of Uttar Pradesh for his doctoral thesis that scholar Craig Jeffrey, in 1999, observed groups of young men outside two colleges near a tea stall, most of them belonging to Jat families. These young people were the object of lavish parental attention and heavy educational investment. Drawn by the hope of salaried employment, these men spent much of their day in what they called time pass. Much later, in China, we noticed an equivalent phenomenon in the lying-flat movement, which encouraged youth to withdraw from the economic race and settle for modest workplace success and limited consumer fulfilment. Until recently, many in South Asia resorted to the donkey route to leave their countries and settle abroad. In Senegal and several other countries, youth have responded to such frustrations by organising cultural festivals to vent their pent-up anxieties. The unemployment of the educated did not begin with the economic reforms of 1991, nor is it confined to any particular region. A recent study by Azim Premji University found graduate unemployment existing as far back as 1983, even when the public sector was expanding and education was largely viewed as a public good. There are several explanations for this problem. First, our higher education system is broken. Many of our challenges stem from an acute leadership crisis in higher education. Foreign and private universities may have some space to address this issue, but public-sector institutions have increasingly become liabilities. In China, reforms became possible because of visionary managers. The country is a one-party system but campus culture is interactive and innovative. You cannot convert university/College into a graveyard to showcase your administrative efficiency. The universities/Colleges are not monasteries but places where students have a right to be wrong. The time has come for us to hire the best talent from anywhere to run our institutions and provide them with maximum autonomy to achieve targets. The leadership of higher education institutions should not be selected on the basis of parochial considerations or opportunistic ideological alignments of aspirants. The historic Government College/ University Lahore was built by a Hungarian Jew with the motto: Courage to Know. A Muslim beggar contributed one rupee toward the establishment of Banaras Hindu University. The government and the market need to provide outcome-linked grants to institutions while encouraging them to diversify their revenue streams. To restore academic rigour, we must address governance issues through deep audits and institutional restructuring. Recently, noted academic Prof. Dinesh Singh in an interview at the India Today Conclave, admitted that India has lost its way while implementing NEP 2020. The fact remains that no institution can rise above the quality of its leadership. To quote Cardinal Lawrence: Let us pray that God grants us a pope who knows how to doubt. Second, every countrys growth model eventually undergoes transition and exhaustion. In India, the 1991 economic reforms undoubtedly marked a major turning point. Investment manager Saurabh Mukherjea, while speaking at the Indian Express Adda, observed that India faces three major stresses. White-collar employment has stagnated even as the country produces nearly eighty lakh graduates annually. Small businesses face volatility, profits are increasingly concentrated, and nearly eighty percent of employment generated by small companies is under pressure. Additionally, wage compression has intensified, and instead of relying on employers for retirement benefits and healthcare, citizens are increasingly being asked to become self-reliant. It must also be underlined that while we depoliticised the economy and built broad political consensus across ideological lines, we simultaneously politicised higher education, resulting in declining standards and rising mediocrity. We must urgently overhaul the system to make graduates employable and, in contemporary parlance, job-ready. Some measures that need to be undertaken in earnest include the following: First, we are not alone in experiencing rapid changes and economic stress. According to The Harvard Crimson annual faculty survey, professors warn of declining academic focus, with nearly two-thirds believing that students prioritise jobs over classroom learning. Land reforms and phenomenal expansion of English medium schools in Jammu and Kashmir, the literacy movement in Kerala, the English-medium schooling boom in Goa, and near-universal education in Mizoram have all expanded access to education without ensuring alignment with employability. We realised this too late and began lamenting how education has outpaced employability. In Kerala, much of the educated workforce holds degrees in commerce and the arts, while job growth lies elsewhere. There are useful lessons to be learned from states such as Himachal Pradesh and Sikkim, where balanced growth has led to better absorption of educated youth. Second, the recent Union Budget (202627) proposal for five higher education townships or university hub zones near major industrial and logistics corridors across different states should be expanded. This initiative is expected to create a more integrated academic ecosystem where universities and industries can work side by side to bridge the gap between education and employment. Entrepreneurial initiatives surrounding Stanford University were valued at approximately three trillion dollars in 2012. During COVID-19, the University of Houston contributed significantly to the citys economy. We continue to view education as a linear journey: school, college, university, and then employment. In China, however, many young people enter the economy through practical, income-generating skills such as repairing goods, preparing food, or producing simple items. Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime. These are not fallback options but legitimate entry points into economic life. Such youth redefine education through modest beginnings. Third, from a foundational perspective, we need to reconceptualise school education and treat any dilution of it as an original sin. The key features of school education in Finland include ensuring that every child feels seen, heard, and valued. Children trust their teachers. The system is not centred on grades but on learning, curiosity, creativity, and a love for education. Students are free to explore, and teachers are free to support them. The government in Jammu and Kashmir should consider sending committed educational leaders to Finland so that best practices may be studied and replicated, as many governments have already done. In conclusion, it must be reiterated that an investment in knowledge pays the best interest, as Benjamin Franklin famously said. Finland has made education a national priority, while Israel has declared brainpower its greatest natural resource. We should not make a mess of it. The author is Kashmir based Political Scientist.
