ENGLISH WITH INDIAN WINGS There was a time when many children entered an English classroom with quiet fear. They are worried about making mistakes. They feared speaking in front of others. They believed that English belonged only to books, examinations, or a few people who spoke it well. For many learners, the language became a wall rather than a bridge. Today, India stands at the edge of a different journey. Across the country, schools are slowly changing the way they think about English. The question is no longer, How many grammar rules can students remember? The more important question is, What can students do with the language? This small change carries a very large promise. English is becoming less about repeating correct answers and more about asking thoughtful questions. It is becoming less about copying sentences and more about sharing ideas. It is becoming less about fear and more about confidence. That is the journey India has begun. The National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023 invite us to see language in a fresh light. English is not expected to replace our home languages. It is expected to grow beside them. A child who speaks Kashmiri, Dogri, Urdu, Hindi, Tamil, Bengali, Kannada, Marathi, Garo, Khasi, Mizo, or any other Indian language does not begin from zero. That child already carries stories, songs, ideas, feelings, and dreams. English becomes another window through which those ideas can travel. This is one of India's greatest strengths. Many countries teach children through one dominant language. India teaches children who often think in more than one language before they enter school. This is not a problem to be solved. It is a gift to be celebrated. When a learner compares words across languages, new understanding grows. When a child explains a local festival in English, both languages become richer. When students discuss village life, family traditions, rivers, forests, markets, music, or crafts in English, they discover that learning a new language does not mean leaving their own world behind. Instead, they carry that world with them. That is what makes learning English in India unique. The classroom itself must also change. Imagine entering a classroom where the first five minutes are filled with conversation instead of silence. The teacher smiles and asks, What surprised you this morning? Another day, the question is, If you could improve your village or your neighbourhood, what would you begin with? Students talk to one another. They laugh. They disagree politely. They listen. They build confidence before opening a textbook. Language begins to live. The lesson then moves towards a story, a poem, an article, or a speech. Students do not read only to answer questions at the end of the page. They read to understand people. They read to discover ideas. They read to compare one life with another. A poem becomes a conversation. A story becomes an experience. An article becomes an invitation to think. When students write, they do not simply fill pages with memorised sentences. They write letters to their grandparents. They prepare speeches about clean rivers. They write reviews of books they enjoyed. They create travel guides for visitors. They record family memories before they disappear. They describe the smell of rain on village roads. They write about friendship, hope, courage, and change. Language slowly becomes personal. Speaking also changes. Instead of repeating lines after the teacher, students interview local farmers, artists, doctors, shopkeepers, sports players, and grandparents. They ask questions. They collect stories. They return to school carrying real-life stories from their communities. Every conversation becomes a lesson. Listening changes too. Students learn to listen with respect. They listen not only for correct answers but also for different opinions. They discover that understanding another person is one of the deepest forms of learning. This simple act builds kindness. Many people still ask whether grammar is important. The answer is yes. Accuracy matters because language helps people understand one another clearly. Yet accuracy grows best when learners have something meaningful to say. Children who write about their own experiences care more about making their writing clear. Students who prepare speeches naturally revise their words. Grammar becomes a helpful guide instead of a frightening gatekeeper. Fluency and accuracy are not enemies. They walk together. India also has an opportunity that few countries possess. Its classrooms hold many cultures. A single classroom may include children from different religions, traditions, languages, and family backgrounds. If guided well, this diversity becomes one of the richest classrooms in the world. Students learn that another language is never a threat to their own identity. Instead, every new language opens another friendship. This understanding is deeply important in today's world. The future will belong to people who can work with others, even when they speak differently, think differently, or live differently. English therefore becomes much more than an academic subject. It becomes a meeting place. The world itself is changing quickly. Artificial intelligence is growing. Digital communication crosses continents every second. Climate change affects every nation. Health, science, trade, and technology connect people across borders. Young people will need to work with teams from many countries. They will need to solve problems together. They will need to explain ideas with clarity and respect. English can help them do this. But there is an important difference between speaking English and thinking wisely. Language alone does not make a responsible citizen. Character does. Schools therefore carry a larger responsibility. They must help students ask honest questions. They must encourage them to examine facts before accepting them. They must help them distinguish truth from falsehood. They must teach them to disagree without hatred and to express confidence without arrogance. Language becomes the path through which values find expression. This is perhaps the greatest purpose of education. Another powerful change is taking place in classrooms that encourage creation rather than repetition. A group of students designs a podcast about local history. Another group prepares a short play on water conservation. Others create posters encouraging kindness. Some prepare a digital story about traditional crafts. Others write a newspaper report about a community event. Learning begins to resemble real life. Students are no longer only consumers of information. They become creators. Creation naturally leads to collaboration. No important work in today's world is completed alone. Scientists work in teams. Doctors work in teams. Engineers work in teams. Artists work in teams. Teachers work in teams. Students must therefore learn how to listen, contribute, encourage, and share responsibility. These qualities are learned through practice rather than lectures. The English classroom offers many opportunities for this growth. One group writes together. Another debates respectfully. Another solves a problem. Another presents findings. Every activity teaches both language and life. As students grow, they also learn to bring ideas together. A poem reminds them of a newspaper article. A science lesson connects with an environmental campaign. A history lesson inspires a speech. A family story becomes a research project. This ability to connect ideas is one of the highest forms of learning. It allows knowledge to become wisdom. India's future classrooms should therefore be places where languages meet, ideas meet, people meet, and dreams meet. No child should feel that English belongs only to someone else. Every child should believe that English is another instrument through which their own voice can be heard. That voice may speak about the Himalayas. It may describe the deserts of Rajasthan. It may celebrate the boats of Kerala. It may explain the traditions of Nagaland. It may tell stories from Kashmir. It may carry songs from Assam. It may introduce the world to the colours of Gujarat. It may speak of the hopes of every village and every city. The language becomes richer because India is rich. The learner becomes stronger because the learner remains rooted. Perhaps this is the greatest lesson of all. The goal is not to produce children who sound alike. The goal is to help every learner speak with confidence, write with clarity, think with honesty, listen with respect, and act with responsibility. When this happens, English becomes far more than a classroom subject. It becomes a bridge between home and school. Between village and city. Between India and the world. Between knowledge and action. Between imagination and reality. The flight toward better English is therefore not a race. It is a journey. Each learner travels at a different pace. Each classroom discovers its own path. Each teacher lights another lamp. Each family encourages another dream. Together they create a generation that is fluent without losing humility, accurate without losing creativity, multilingual without losing identity, proudly Indian while remaining open to the world, and ready not only to succeed but also to serve. That is the promise before us. If our schools continue to nurture curiosity instead of fear, conversation instead of silence, understanding instead of memorisation, and purpose instead of mere performance, the English classroom will become one of the strongest spaces for building thoughtful citizens. In the end, the true measure of language learning will not be found only in examination marks or certificates. It will be found in young people who can comfort a friend, explain a new idea, solve a common problem, celebrate their culture, respect another culture, work with others, and speak for what is right. When English helps learners do these things, it has fulfilled its highest purpose. And when India achieves this vision, the world will not simply notice that Indian students speak English well. The world will notice that they use English with wisdom, compassion, confidence, and hope. (The author is an educator committed to reimagining education through thoughtful leadership, reflective practice, curriculum innovation, and transformative learning; bridging local wisdom with global perspectives to empower every learner for a changing world. Feedback at: sheikhgulzar1970@gmail.com )
Urban mining push aims to turn Mumbai's discarded EV batteries into critical mineral source
In a progressive move, India is launching a vital incentive scheme dedicated to urban mining. This initiative's goal is to extract crucial battery minerals from e-waste, thus lessening the nations reliance on imports. With stricter regulations in place for recovery rates of valuable battery materials, this policy reinforces the countrys electric vehicle ambitions and energy sustainability.
Tibetan Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of It is better to live for one day as a tiger than to live for a thousand years as a sheep. The saying emphasizes that a life lived with courage, purpose, and self-respect is more valuable than a long life spent in fear or quiet submission. It encourages people to face challenges boldly, stand firm in their beliefs, and pursue meaningful goals instead of settling for comfort or allowing fear to limit their potential. True fulfillment comes from living with conviction, not simply existing.
Asian Games the bigger goal for Mirabai and coach
Major Crackdown on Crypto Hawala and International Drug Trafficking in Goa
Panaji, July 23: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has made a significant move against a money laundering network linked to crypto hawala and international drug trafficking by arresting Nihal V.N., a resident of Dubai. The arrest was made under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. A special PMLA court in Goa has remanded the ... Read more Major Crackdown on Crypto Hawala and International Drug Trafficking in Goa
1 Crore Insurance Policy: Is it Enough for Your Family?
1 crore sounds substantial. It can clear a loan, support household expenses, and create a financial cushion after the loss of an earning family member. Yet insurance should not be judged by how impressive the sum looks today. Its value depends on how long the money must last, which responsibilities remain, and how inflation affects future expenses. A 1 crore insurance policy can suit some households but leave others underinsured. The answer becomes clearer after examining income, debts, dependants, savings, and long-term goals. Lets look at these further. What Does a 1 Crore Term Plan Provide? A standard term plan is designed mainly for protection. If the insured person passes away while the policy is active, the insurer pays the stated death benefit to the nominee, subject to policy terms. Standard term insurance generally offers no maturity payment when the policyholder survives the selected term. Under a 1 crore insurance policy, the untimely demise benefit is 1 crore. Depending on the plan, the nominee may receive it as a lump sum, regular income, or a combination. A lump sum can settle large liabilities, while periodic payments may support monthly household needs. However, the sum assured is not permanent family wealth. Debts, education costs, living expenses, and emergencies can reduce it quickly. When Can 1 Crore Be Enough? A 1 crore insurance policy may be adequate when the insured has a moderate income, limited debt, sufficient investments, and fewer long-term dependants. It may also work when a spouse earns independently and can meet part of the household budget. Consider a family with an outstanding loan of 20 lakh, planned education costs of 20 lakh, and a requirement of 40 lakh for income support. After setting aside 10 lakh for emergencies and other expenses, 1 crore may provide a workable buffer. Accessible investments and existing life cover can reduce the protection gap. Fixed deposits, mutual funds, provident fund balances, and employer cover may be counted carefully. The family home should not automatically be treated as available money, since selling it may affect stability. When Might 1 Crore Fall Short? The same 1 crore insurance policy may be insufficient for a household with a large home loan, young children, non-earning dependants, or expensive future goals. A family spending 1 lakh each month already needs 12 lakh annually before education, healthcare, and loan repayments. Inflation adds further pressure. A cover chosen at age 28 may look far less substantial when the policyholder reaches 45. The amount may also prove inadequate when one person supports parents, a spouse, and children simultaneously. In such cases, the payout must replace income, settle debts, fund education, cover medical needs, and preserve an emergency reserve. 1 crore can disappear faster than expected when it must serve every purpose. How to Assess and Maintain the Right Insurance Cover Choosing adequate life cover requires more than selecting a round figure or comparing premiums. You need to calculate your familys financial requirements, examine the policy carefully, and review the coverage whenever your responsibilities change. Calculate Your Familys Coverage Needs Before purchasing a 1 crore insurance policy, list your familys major financial needs. Include outstanding loans, household expenses, future goals, and an emergency reserve. Then subtract liquid investments and existing personal life cover that your family can genuinely access. For example, suppose a household needs 40 lakh for liabilities, 90 lakh for income replacement, and 35 lakh for future goals. After subtracting 25 lakh in usable investments and existing cover, the remaining protection gap would be 1.40 crore. In this situation, 1 crore would leave a noticeable shortfall. Cover worth approximately 10 to 15 times your annual income can provide an initial estimate. However, it should not replace a detailed calculation. Two people earning the same salary may require different cover because their debts, dependants, savings, and future goals vary. Look Beyond the Sum Assured Choosing a 1 crore insurance policy involves more than finding the lowest premium. Review the policy tenure, premium payment period, exclusions, medical requirements, payout options, and available riders. The insurers financial position and claim settlement record also deserve attention. A solvency ratio indicates whether the insurer has sufficient financial capacity to meet its obligations. Claim settlement data can support comparisons, although no single percentage can guarantee how an individual claim will be handled. Riders may provide additional protection against critical illness, accidental death, disability, or future premium payments. Since every rider has separate conditions and costs, select one only when it addresses a relevant financial risk. Review the Cover as Responsibilities Change A 1 crore insurance policy that suits your family today may not remain sufficient throughout a long policy tenure. Marriage, childbirth, a larger home loan, rising income, business borrowing, or responsibility for ageing parents can increase the required protection. Review your cover every few years and after any major financial change. Purchasing an additional term plan may help close a new coverage gap without replacing your existing policy. Since premiums depend on age, health, smoking status, tenure, and underwriting, buying suitable cover earlier may also be more economical. Choose Cover That Reflects Your Familys Needs There is no universal answer. A 1 crore insurance policy may protect a household with modest liabilities, shared income, and strong savings. It may be inadequate for a sole breadwinner supporting several dependants or carrying substantial commitments. Start with expenses, debts, future goals, and available assets. Then compare policy terms, payout structures, exclusions, and insurer disclosures. Online insurance brokers such as Jio Insurance Broking Ltd. let customers compare options from multiple insurers. The right cover is not simply the largest round number you can afford. It is the amount that gives your family enough income, time, and flexibility to continue without your earnings.
Hyderabad Police arrest five QNET representatives in Goa over 7.5 lakh pyramid scheme fraud
Bihars Daughters to Become Self-Reliant Through Skill Development: CM Samrat Chaudhary
Patna, July 23: Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary stated on Thursday that skill development is the strong foundation for a prosperous Bihar, enabling the states daughters to become skilled, self-reliant, and successful in establishing their identity at the national level. He emphasized that the governments goal is to not only make youth employable but also ... Read more Bihars Daughters to Become Self-Reliant Through Skill Development: CM Samrat Chaudhary
Hyderabad police nab 5 QNET agents from Goa resort, cars seized
Hyderabad:The Hyderabad Police have arrested five representatives of the multi-level marketing firm QNET from a resort in Goa in connection with a multi-lakh fraud case, seizing three vehicles and digital evidence in the process. The Economic Offences Wing of the Central Crime Stations Detective Department arrested the five from the Novotel Resort and Spa in Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Fortis Hospitals Mumbai Launches 'Har Ghar Hero', A City-Wide Mission to Make Mumbai CPR-Ready
Fortis Hospitals Mumbai today announced the launch of 'Har Ghar Hero' , a first-of-its-kind, community-led CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) preparedness movement aimed at empowering Mumbaikars with the knowledge, skills and confidence to respond effectively during cardiac emergencies. Bringing together citizens from the length and breadth of Mumbai, across housing societies, corporates, schools, colleges and civic bodies, under one unified movement, the initiative reinforces a simple message - every household should have at least one person trained in CPR, a 'Hero' who can step forward when every second counts. Fortis Mumbai launches ‘Har Ghar Hero’ initiative to build CPR-ready Mumbai with (L-R) Dr Gore, Dr Gaikwad, Dr Singh, Hon. Ms. Hemangini Patil, Dr S. Narayani, Dr Gore & Dr Nabar The initiative was inaugurated by Hon. Ms. Hemangini Patil, Regional Transport Officer, Thane Region, and Dr. S. Narayani, Business Head – Fortis Hospitals, Maharashtra. They were joined by Fortis Mumbai's leadership team and emergency medicine specialists — Dr. Sandeep Gore (Director, Emergency Medicine, Fortis Hospital Mulund), Dr. Amit Nabar (Director, Emergency & Community Medicine, S. L. Raheja Hospital, Mahim - A Fortis Associate), Dr. Preetam Gaikwad (Head, Emergency Medicine, Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi - A Fortis Network Hospital) and Dr. Sudhir Gore (Head, Emergency Medicine, Fortis Hospital Kalyan), who spoke about the importance of building CPR preparedness beyond hospital settings. The launch was also supported by Dr. Manjeet Singh Arora, Senior Consultant-General Physician, Fortis Hospital Mulund, who has spearheaded CPR trainings in the community for the past two decades, and won multiple accolades for his contribution to community preparedness. In a sudden cardiac emergency, the first few minutes are often decisive. Through 'Har Ghar Hero' , Fortis Hospitals Mumbai aims to bring CPR awareness and training closer to communities, building a wider network of people who are prepared to act until professional medical help arrives. What sets the initiative apart is its scale and reach; it is designed to unite residents from every corner of the city, from South Mumbai to the far suburbs, in a single, sustained movement toward a common goal - a CPR-ready Mumbai. As part of the initiative, Fortis Hospitals Mumbai will partner with civic bodies, utility and service providers, transport operators, quick-commerce platforms, housing societies, corporate hubs, educational institutions and other community groups to expand CPR awareness across the city. The focus for the coming year would be on equipping 2 lakh Mumbaikars of all ages and backgrounds with essential CPR skills, and building a growing base of trained first responders who can act swiftly in a cardiac emergency, before EMS teams arrive. Fortis Mumbai will also launch a community perception survey to gauge current levels of emergency preparedness among Mumbaikars, and awareness about application of Basic Life Support (BLS), CPR and use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). These insights that will help identify gaps and shape future training efforts. Speaking at the launch, Dr. S. Narayani, Business Head – Fortis Hospitals, Maharashtra, said, "With 'Har Ghar Hero', Fortis Mumbai is taking an important step towards making CPR preparedness a community priority. In a cardiac emergency, the first responder is often not a healthcare professional but a family member, colleague, neighbour or passer-by. Our aim is to build a culture where every household has at least one person who knows what to do when it matters most. Through sustained partnerships and community-led training, we hope to create a city that is better prepared to respond to emergencies." Over the past few years, emergency medicine specialists from Fortis Hospitals Mumbai have collectively trained and certified 1.5 lakh Mumbaikars in CPR, and engaged with 1,000+ housing societies, 350+ corporate set-ups, 300+ colleges and schools, 100+ government bodies and civic institutions, and 600+ NGOs and community groups. Through 'Har Ghar Hero', Fortis Mumbai aims to build a sustained movement around CPR awareness, growing a network of trained citizens who can act as 'Heroes' in the moments when immediate action makes the difference. To get your workplace or housing society trained and certified, call 022 4111 4111. About Fortis Healthcare Limited Fortis Healthcare Limited is a leading integrated healthcare delivery service provider in India. The healthcare verticals of the company primarily comprise hospitals, diagnostics, and day care specialty facilities. Currently, the company operates 36 healthcare facilities (including JVs and O&M facilities) across 12 states and union territories. The Company’s network comprises over 6,000 operational beds (including O&M beds) and 400 diagnostics labs. www.fortishealthcare. com/ About IHH HEALTHCARE (“IHH”) IHH is a leading multinational healthcare provider shaping the future of care. Driven by our aspiration to Care. For Good., we unite medical excellence and innovation, pushing boundaries through our trusted brands such as Acibadem, Gleneagles, Fortis, Island, Mount Elizabeth, Pantai, Parkway and Prince Court. Across 10 countries, including Malaysia, Singapore, Türkiye, India and Greater China, our 70,000-strong team delivers world-class excellence every day, within and beyond our 140 healthcare facilities, including more than 80 hospitals. Our comprehensive services span the full healthcare continuum, from primary and ambulatory to quaternary care, complemented by diagnostics, imaging, rehabilitation, telehealth and home care. In partnership with our stakeholders, IHH is advancing value-based care, building a sustainable healthcare ecosystem and creating meaningful impact, as we work towards our vision to become the world’s most trusted healthcare services network. www.ihhhealthcare.com
Hyderabad Police Bust QNET-linked Pyramid Fraud; 5 Held from Goa Resort
EOW nabs Kerala-based accused at Candolim event; luxury cars, digital evidence seized in 7.5 lakh cheating case
Phrase of the day by Joyce Meyer is more than an inspiring quoteit is a practical philosophy for navigating everyday challenges. Joyce Meyer reminds us that lasting success begins internally before it becomes visible externally. By choosing hope over discouragement, gratitude over constant complaint, and possibility over fear, individuals become better equipped to pursue meaningful goals and handle life's inevitable challenges. A positive life is rarely built by perfect circumstances alone. More often, it grows from a mindset that embraces learning, resilience, compassion, and determination. When we intentionally cultivate constructive thoughts and focus on opportunities instead of obstacles, we create the foundation for a more fulfilling, purposeful, and successful future.
Got Rs 15 lakh to invest for 10 years? Here's what expert recommends
An expert recommends diversifying Rs 15 lakh across equity mutual funds, precious metals and international funds for a 10-year horizon. Investors should align allocations with their risk profile and goals, while staggering investments over 1520 weeks to manage volatility.
Arshad Warsi and Maria Goretti's restored 150-year-old Portuguese villa Casa Zen in Goa
Actor Arshad Warsi and wife Maria Goretti have restored a 150-year-old Portuguese-style bungalow in Saligao, North Goa, transforming it into Casa Zen which is a five-bedroom heritage property with vibrant interiors, a swimming pool, solar panels and lush gardens. The home is now available for tourists to rent at Rs 75,000 per night, plus taxes.
Quote of the Day: Helen Keller's quote The most pathetic person in the world is someone who has sight but no vision highlights the importance of vision beyond physical sight. The quote suggests that true vision involves setting goals and living with intention and the powerful message remains relevant in today's fast-paced and distracting world.
Phrase of the day by U.S. President Donald Trump encourages individuals to approach life with optimism, confidence, and purpose. The quote reminds us that our mindset influences the goals we pursue and the effort we invest in achieving them. President Trump's message offers an inspiring perspective in an era of rapid change and expanding possibilities. Whether pursuing career advancement, launching a business, continuing education, strengthening a community, or developing new skills, ambitious thinking can provide the motivation needed to move beyond comfort zones and embrace new opportunities. Big dreams alone do not create successbut they often inspire the commitment, perseverance, and continuous learning that make success possible. By combining bold vision with consistent action, thoughtful preparation, and unwavering determination, individuals can transform ambitious ideas into meaningful accomplishments that positively shape both their own lives and the world around them.
Despite fears, many who stayed away are now joining the protests
Muslim students debated joining protests, fearing backlash and becoming scapegoats. Many chose support roles like food distribution and legal aid instead. This shift occurred after initial warnings from elders and community leaders. Instagram reels later showcased Muslim volunteers actively participating in the demonstrations. The participation reflects a desire to stand for justice and constitutional rights.
Wish To Return As A Capped Player: Prabhsimran Eyes India Debut In Zimbabwe
New Delhi: Punjab wicketkeeper-batter Prabhsimran Singh is hoping the upcoming T20I series against Zimbabwe becomes the moment he finally makes his international debut, with the uncapped opener saying his immediate goal is to earn his first India cap and make the most of the opportunity if selected. Named in India's squad after impressing in domestic cricket and the IPL, Prabhsimran also described the intense competition for opening slots as a positive challenge and praised fellow youngster Vaibhav Sooryavanshi following their recent stint together with India A. For the 24-year-old, a maiden appearance in India's colours would fulfil one of the biggest ambitions he has carried since taking up the sport. When you start playing cricket, there are two main objectives in your mind, and even in your parents' minds, to represent the country and to play in the IPL. I am playing in the IPL, but now I've gotten this opportunity to represent the country. I got it earlier as well during the Asian Games, but unfortunately, I couldn't play. Now, my only wish is that I return as a capped player this time around and, obviously, perform well there so that I get more opportunities, Prabhsimran told JioStar. Prabhsimran was part of India's squad for the Asian Games but did not feature in a match. With another opportunity now knocking, the opener is eager to translate selection into an on-field appearance and establish himself in the national setup. Competition at the top of India's batting order has intensified with several young players staking a claim through domestic performances and the IPL. However, Prabhsimran believes the battle for places is a healthy one that pushes players to improve. The IPL is such a big platform where you rub shoulders with international players from all around the world, youngsters from across the country, established players representing India, and even legends who are playing alongside you. So, obviously, it is a bit tough. But if you look at it, it's healthy competition. There is so much competition just for the opening spot in the Indian team, and the only thing that comes to mind is, 'Just give me an opportunity, and if I get the chance, hopefully I'll do well', he added. Competition at the top of India's batting order has intensified with several young players staking a claim through domestic performances and the IPL. However, Prabhsimran believes the battle for places is a healthy one that pushes players to improve. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Recently, we went to play the India A series against Sri Lanka and Afghanistan, and Vaibhav was there with me too. Watching him bat is so much fun; it brings a lot of joy. Since we were opening together, we got to spend more time together and discuss various things. It was a great experience, Prabhsimran stated. Article Source: IANS
Loan Fest 2026: Apply for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan Online with Attractive Offers
Bajaj Finance, one of India's leading financial services providers, has announced the launch of Loan Fest 2026, a limited-period campaign designed to make online borrowing more rewarding for eligible customers. Running from 10th July to 31st August 2026, the campaign enables customers to apply for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan through a simple digital process while offering attractive rewards on successful loan disbursal. Alongside the campaign benefits, customers can access loan amounts ranging from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 55 lakh, flexible repayment tenure of 12 months to 108 months, competitive personal loan interest rate options ranging from 10% to 30% per annum, and quick access to funds. Bajaj Finance Personal Loan Bajaj Finance Personal Loan offers a convenient solution for customers looking for quick and flexible financing. Attractive rewards during Loan Fest 2026 As part of Loan Fest 2026, eligible customers whose Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is successfully disbursed during the campaign period may receive an exclusive reward bundle. The bundle has been curated to provide additional value by combining entertainment, dining, music, and lifestyle benefits alongside the loan. These rewards are available only to eligible customers and are subject to the applicable campaign terms and conditions. The reward bundle includes: Zee 5, Sony Liv & 14 other OTTs – 6 months free membership JioHotstar membership – 3 months Free 3-month Zomato Gold Membership Free 3-month JioSaavn Pro Free 45 Day Gaana membership Free 40+ Vouchers The exclusive rewards complement the standard features of the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan, making the borrowing experience more rewarding during the campaign period. Why apply for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan online? Applying for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan online enables customers to complete the borrowing process conveniently without visiting a branch. The end-to-end digital application journey requires minimal documentation and allows eligible customers to check their loan offer, complete the application, and submit the required details online. Eligible applicants may receive quick approval, and funds can be disbursed within 24 hours* after approval and successful verification. The digital process is designed to provide customers with a faster and more convenient borrowing experience. Flexible borrowing with repayment tenure of up to 108 months One of the key highlights of the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is the flexible repayment tenure ranging from 12 months to 108 months. The extended tenure gives customers greater flexibility to choose a repayment schedule that suits their financial goals and monthly budget. A longer repayment period may help reduce monthly EMIs compared with a shorter tenure for the same loan amount, enabling borrowers to manage larger financial commitments more comfortably. personal loan interest rate ranges from 10% to 30% per annum, depending on factors such as the customer's eligibility, credit profile, income, and internal assessment. Features of Bajaj Finance Personal Loan The Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is designed to support a wide range of personal financial requirements while offering a convenient borrowing experience. Key features include: Loan amount ranging from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 55 lakh Repayment tenure from 12 months to 108 months Personal loan interest rate from 10% to 30% per annum Collateral-free loan Quick approval for eligible applicants Funds disbursed within 24 hours* Minimal documentation Fully digital application process These features enable customers to borrow according to their financial requirements while choosing a repayment option that aligns with their budget. Estimate your EMI before applying Customers can use the personal loan EMI calculator available on the Bajaj Finance website before submitting an application. The calculator helps customers estimate monthly EMIs based on the selected loan amount, applicable interest rate, and repayment tenure. It also enables customers to compare different repayment options, understand their repayment commitments, and make informed borrowing decisions before applying for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan. How to apply for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan online Applying for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is simple and can be completed in a few steps: Visit the website: Customers begin by visiting the Bajaj Finance website and navigating to the Personal Loan page. Check loan eligibility: Customers enter the required loan amount and select the preferred repayment tenure. They then click "CHECK LOAN OFFER". Enter personal details: Customers provide their personal, financial, and employment details to receive a personalised loan offer. Review the loan offer: Customers review the available loan offer and may adjust the loan amount or repayment tenure based on their requirements. Complete KYC verification: Customers complete the KYC process and verify their bank account details to facilitate disbursal. Application assessment: The application is submitted for assessment, following which a loan specialist contacts the customer regarding the next steps in the process. Eligible applicants may receive funds within 24 hours* after approval and successful verification. A rewarding digital borrowing experience Loan Fest 2026 reflects Bajaj Finance's continued focus on providing customer-centric lending solutions through a seamless digital experience. By combining attractive rewards with flexible repayment tenure, competitive personal loan interest rate options, collateral-free borrowing, and quick access to funds, the campaign provides additional value for eligible customers applying for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan online. Eligible customers can visit the Bajaj Finance website to check their loan offer and apply online during the Loan Fest campaign period. Terms and conditions apply* About Bajaj Finance Limited Bajaj Finance Ltd. (‘BFL’, ‘Bajaj Finance’, or ‘the Company’), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL is engaged in the business of lending and acceptance of deposits. It has a diversified lending portfolio across retail, SMEs, and commercial customers with significant presence in both urban and rural India. It accepts public and corporate deposits and offers a variety of financial services products to its customers. BFL, a thirty-five-year-old enterprise, has now become a leading player in the NBFC sector in India and on a consolidated basis, it has a franchise of 69.14 million customers. BFL has the highest domestic credit rating of AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing, A1+ for short-term borrowing, and CRISIL AAA/Stable & [ICRA]AAA(Stable) for its FD program. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BB+/Positive and a short-term rating of B by S&P Global ratings.
UTT 7: History-Makers Goa Challengers Beat UP 10-5, Finish League Phase Unbeaten
Dempo Goa Challengers became the first team in the competition's history to remain unbeaten through the league phase after defeating UP Prometheans 10-5 in Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) Season 7 on Wednesday.
State level Subroto Mukherjee Cup: Goals galore on Day 2
Shillong, July 22: The sporting momentum continued on Day 2 of the State-Level Subroto Mukherjee Cup Football Tournament 2026. Organised by the Directorate of Sports & Youth Affairs, Wednesdays fixtures across the Under-15 Boys, Under-17 Boys, and Under-17 Girls categories delivered a spectacle of attacking football, highlighted by several commanding victories and stunning individual performances []
A Morning run against a growing habit
Srinagar, Jul 22:The first thing Dr Mir IshfaqHussain and Farhan Shah noticed was not the parents exercising inside the gym. It was the children waiting outside. Some sat quietly. Others stared into mobile phones, their attention fixed on short videos that seemed to scroll endlessly. It wasn't just that they were using phones, Hussain and Farhan recalled. It was that they had nowhere else to be. That observation stayed with them long after they left the gym. Weeks later, it became the starting point of a community fitness campaign that now brings together doctors, health professionals, educators and senior public officials for morning runs, badminton games and public exercise sessions across Srinagar. Their goal is ambitious, persuade young people, and perhaps more importantly, their parents, that movement can compete with the pull of the screen. We wanted to do something meaningful for society. During our visits to gyms, we often noticed children sitting with mobile phones while their parents exercised. That made us realise how deeply screen addiction has entered our daily lives, DrHussain said. According to him, excessive consumption of short-form social media content is affecting children's attention span and concentration, making awareness on healthy digital habits increasingly important. DrHussain, who holds a PhD in musculoskeletal sports medicine from the American College of Sports Medicine and runs a chain of Hayat Multi-speciality Medical Centres in Kashmir, said the campaign is based on scientific principles rather than being merely a social media exercise. Our objective is not advertisement but awareness. We explain scientifically why excessive screen exposure is harmful and demonstrate healthy alternatives through physical activity, he said. Initially led by DrHussain, Farhan Shah and noted pulmonologist DrNaveedNazir Shah, the initiative has since been joined by noted TV broadcaster AzharHajini, renowned endocrinologist DrShariqMasoodi and senior police officials, including the SSP city Traffic. Children today are active online, he said. The question is how we make them active offline. Notably, public health researchers have long argued that role models can encourage healthier behaviour, particularly when combined with community participation. But they also caution that reducing children's dependence on digital devices requires more than symbolic gestures. It often involves changes at home, in schools and in the design of neighbourhoods where children have safe places to play. The campaign has also attracted questions. Some wonder whether a movement led largely by professionals in their forties and fifties can truly resonate with teenagers immersed in digital culture. Hussain acknowledges the challenge. Younger athletes and social influencers, he said, are gradually being invited to participate. The organisers also plan to expand the programme into colleges and universities, where they hope peer influence will prove more powerful than lectures. Responding to questions about how the initiative differs from other fitness groups operating in Kashmir, he maintained that the campaign places emphasis on scientific guidance and injury-free exercise. Every club has its own concept. Our focus is evidence-based fitness and educating people about the correct way to exercise while highlighting the health risks associated with excessive mobile phone use, he said. The organisers also pointed to their own physical transformation since the campaign began, saying it reflects the positive impact of consistent exercise and healthy habits. But on Srinagar's walking tracks, where the day's first light now falls on groups stretching, jogging and talking about health, the organisers believe change often begins the same way fitness does, not with a finish line, but with a first step.
48th State Level Senior Men and Women's Handball Tournament begins
The 48th edition of the State Level Senior Men and Women's Handball Tournament kicked off today at YLK ground, Chingarel Tejpur, Imphal East this afternoon As many as 8 men's teams and 6 women's teams clustered into two pools are taking part in the tournament The opening day of the tournaments saw hosts YLK beat KKLYDO, Kongpal by 16 7 goals in the women's opener Pool A before YLK beat NSU 17 9 in the men's opener Pool B br br table align center cellpadding 5 width 610 tbody tr td table class capbox width 100 tbody tr td img width 600 src https www e pao org galleries images News Related 2026 07 Handball 20260723 jpg border 1 alt 48th State Level Senior Men and Women's Handball Tournament begins td tr tr td align center 48th State Level Senior Men and Women's Handball Tournament begins td tr tbody table td tr tbody table br br In the women's opening match, Y Monika scored 7 goals alone to steer the hosts team to the 16 7 victory against KKLYDO Her compatriot N Sophiya meanwhile netted 3 goals as N Bijaya and L Aliya added 2 goals apiece and Kh Melody and N Vidyanandini added 1 goal apiece N Dolly 2 , RK Nilamjoyshree 2 , Th Christina 1 , M Lucky 1 and K Ayingbi 1 were on target for KKLYDO in this match Later in the men's opening match, A Bikramjit shone with 8 goals as L Beckham and E Priyokumar scored 3 goals apiece to earn YLK a 17 9 win over NSU Ng Krishnakanta 2 and Md Sahrukhan 1 meanwhile contributed the remaining 3 goals For NSU, Y Romario top scored with 5 goals as Manglem 2 , Visma 1 and Enungyai 1 managed 4 goals The day also witnessed OYO, Kongpal getting the better of KKLYDO by 17 12 goals in the Pool A opener RK Devajit and N Lamjingba led the scoring for OYO by scoring 4 goals each as T Sunderjit scored 3 goals and the trio of Ksh General, B Bikash and Th Lucky scored 2 goals apiece For KKLYDO, Th Bikash scored thrice as M Rajkumar, Th Sonamani and M Leishemba scored 2 goals apiece Th Bidyachandra, Ch Ajitkumar and Chingthanganba also contributed a goal apiece for the team Source The Sangai Express
Manipur's one of the rising athletes Huidrom Bhumeshwory has called on the State Government to provide high quality, disturbance free training infrastructure to help State athletes excel on National and international stages Bhumeshwory recently scripted history by winning a bronze medal in the women's 800m event at the 2026 Asian U23 Athletics Championships held in Ordos, China br br table align center cellpadding 5 width 610 tbody tr td table class capbox width 100 tbody tr td img width 600 src https www e pao org galleries images News Related 2026 07 Bhumeshwory 20260723 jpg border 1 alt Asian U23 Athletics C'ships bronze medallist Bhumeshwory accorded warm reception td tr tr td align center Asian U23 Athletics C'ships bronze medallist Bhumeshwory accorded warm reception td tr tbody table td tr tbody table br br The rising athletic talent was accorded a warm reception today at the All Manipur Sports Association AMSA hall at Mapal Kangjeibung, jointly organized by the Athletics Association of Manipur AAM and the Manipur Running Team Speaking at the event, Bhumeshwory credited her rapid rise to the unwavering support of the AAM, her coaches, guardians, and well wishers If an athlete pursues their goals with determination and perseverance, success is bound to come, she said, urging younger athletes to stay focused on their targets However, she noted that an athlete's growth is strictly limited by their training environment, expressing regret over the severe infrastructural deficit being faced by State athletes She emphasized that proper athletic facilities are foundational for talent development, safety, and long term competitive success, urging the State Government to work out a proper policy to transform Manipur's enormous sporting potential into podium finishes Many concerned personalities also echoed her concerns, criticizing the monopolization of existing facilities Ito Tongbram, Secretary of the AAM, flagged unfairness on the part of authorities, highlighting the excessive, long term usage of the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium for a single, specific sport Tongbram noted that the stadium serves as the primary venue for regular practice and competitions for most State athletes, and demanded that authorities ensure unrestricted, year round access to the facility except during major tournaments Khogendra Khomdram, Editor of The Sangai Express, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the need for equitable treatment across all sporting disciplines to sustain Manipur's rich sporting legacy He stated it is unfortunate when massive sports facilities are heavily allocated to one sport, adding that all athletes deserve equal access The reception program was attended by several prominent presidium members, including Leishangthem Ajit President, AAM , retired Youth Affairs and Sports athletic coaches Sapam Rashwori and Soibam Somchandra, and retired Sports Authority of India SAI coach Dr Konthoujam Koshana As part of the celebration, Bhumeshwory was honored with a memento and gifts for her historic international achievement Source The Sangai Express
Prime Minister Modi Leads High-Level Meeting on Developed India Goals
New Delhi, July 23: Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level meeting at his residence on Wednesday to review progress towards the Developed India goals in rural development, agriculture, social welfare, and related sectors. The meeting included secretaries and senior officials from various ministries, who discussed ongoing programs, challenges, and future strategies in their respective ... Read more Prime Minister Modi Leads High-Level Meeting on Developed India Goals
Japanese mindset of the day: A Japanese saying advises against waiting for luck to change life's circumstances. Passively waiting for good fortune can hinder personal growth and missed opportunities. Taking action, even small steps, creates possibilities for learning and advancement. Effort and preparation are within our control, unlike unpredictable luck.
Like Tokyo Olympics, India can end five-decade World Cup medal drought: Harmanpreet
We had similar feelings as before the Tokyo Olympics. Our preparation is equally strong because our only goal is to end the 50-year World Cup podium drought, Harmanpreet said
State govt proposes first-of-its-kind framework to trace used cooking oil
Shahin Bepari Lambe Panaji With the aim of channeling used cooking oil for biodiesel production, the state government has proposed a first-of-its-kind framework to plug gaps in the collection and digital traceability of used cooking oil (UCO) in Goa. The will ensure that the oil is collected through authorised channels and eventually channelled for biodiesel []
Goa has potential to emerge as key Israel tourism hub
Diana Fernandes Margao Israel Ministry of Tourisms Director of Marketing, India, Amruta Bangera, who is currently in Goa,said the state has the potential to become one of Israels biggest tourism hubs, with opportunities extending beyond faith-based travel to leisure and MICE tourism. She also said discussions have been held on establishing direct flights between Goa []
Experts suggestions to shape Tribal Vision Document 2037
NT Reporter Margao Tribal Welfare Minister Ramesh Tawadkar on Wednesday said the Tribal Welfare Department would incorporate the views and suggestions of experts and resource persons while preparing the Goa Tribal Vision Document 2037. He made the statement after a one-day conference on the Goa Tribal Vision Document 2037 organised by the Directorate of Tribal []
Voices of support & dissent amplify, faultlines widen
NT Reporter Panaji The BJP Goa unit, led by president Damodar Damu Naik, staged a protest near Congress House in Panaji on Wednesday, accusing the Congress of promoting sponsored anarchy and manufactured chaos. Several state ministers, including Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte and Fisheries Minister Nilkanth Halarnkar, along with MLAs and party workers, participated in the []
S Goa advocates back CJP protest, demand action over NEET issue
NT Reporter Margao A group of young advocates from South Goa on Wednesday extendedtheir support to the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), backing the youth-led movements ongoing national and local protests. The educational and systemic issues raised by the movement were not limited to Goa but reflected concerns across the country, they told reportersin Margao. The []
Quote of the day by Katharine Hepburn reminds people that success depends on completing what they begin instead of only making a strong start. The quote explains the value of resilience, perseverance, determination, endurance, execution and commitment. Katharine Hepburn's life and career reflected this message through many challenges, career setbacks and achievements. The quote continues to inspire people working toward personal, educational and professional goals.
Trump Administration Leverages Tariffs for New Trade Agreements
Washington, July 22: The Trump administration is utilizing tariffs to exert pressure on trade partner nations. The goal is to open their markets to American companies, ensure better compliance with regulations, and strengthen manufacturing in the United States. This statement was made by U.S. Trade Representative Jamison Greer during a session with lawmakers on Wednesday. ... Read more Trump Administration Leverages Tariffs for New Trade Agreements
Quote of the Day by Arnold Schwarzenegger: Arnold Schwarzeneggers quote, Bodybuilding is much like any other sport. To be successful, you must dedicate yourself 100% to your training, diet and mental approach, explores the importance of discipline, commitment, and a strong mindset in achieving success. The quote suggests that reaching any goal requires complete dedication, consistent effort, and proper preparation rather than relying only on talent or motivation. It highlights how physical training, healthy choices, and mental strength work together to create lasting progress.
Govt aims to double food processing level to 2% over next five years: Chirag Paswan
India plans to double its food processing level to twenty-five percent within five years. This ambitious goal follows significant reforms implemented over the past twelve years. The government views food processing as a priority sector for national economic growth. Various schemes are actively supporting micro and large food processing enterprises. Connecting every farm to a processing unit is a key future objective.
Best German proverb of the day: A German proverb highlights the dangers of delaying important tasks. The saying The devil's favorite piece of furniture is the long bench warns against procrastination. This ancient wisdom encourages timely action and efficient responsibility management. Procrastination can lead to missed opportunities and increased stress levels. Overcoming delay is crucial for achieving long-term personal and professional goals.
Messi's Gesture For Family Of Vozinha, Whho Gave Argentina Massive Scare
Cape Verde and their goalkeeper Vozinha had a memorable FIFA World Cup 2026 debut, despite going down 3-2 to defending champions Argentina in a valiantly contested match
How ULIP plans can help you with legacy planning
Legacy planning helps Indian families transfer wealth smoothly across generations. Unit Linked Insurance Plans offer life cover and market-linked growth potential. Life insurance provides immediate financial security after an unexpected earning member's demise. ULIPs build a long-term corpus and offer liquidity after a lock-in period. Bajaj Life Supreme can support wealth creation and family protection goals.
Environmental CSR in India has grown steadily over the past decade, with Corporate India investing Rs. 17,377 crore across environmental sustainability, conservation of natural resources and agroforestry initiatives. However, a new report by Sattva Consulting, powered by India Data Insights (IDI), finds that while environmental CSR has expanded, funding remains concentrated among a relatively small group of companies and is not always aligned with the geographies and sectors facing the country's greatest environmental challenges. The report, A Decade of Green Spending: What Rs. 17,000 Crores of Environmental CSR Reveals About Corporate India, lands at a moment when India, ranked the 9th most climate-vulnerable nation in the Climate Risk Index 2026, is under growing pressure to align corporate giving with climate resilience goals under Viksit Bharat 2047 and its 2070 Net Zero commitment. Environmental CSR spending fell to a post-pandemic low of 4.4% of total CSR outlay in FY2020-21, as companies redirected funds towards health and relief efforts. It has since recovered, stabilising at 8.4% of total CSR spend in FY2023-24, still well behind enduring priorities such as education and health. The report notes that with an estimated $2.5 trillion needed to meet India's Nationally Determined Contributions by 2030, and $10 trillion required to build a climate-resilient economy by 2047, CSR capital has a distinct role to play in bridging gaps where public systems face capacity or resource constraints. While environmental CSR is growing, corporate philanthropy is not yet fully aligned with India's highest climate risks, especially sectors with the greatest environmental footprint. A Concentrated Funding Base Just one out of five companies that report CSR spending direct any of it towards the environment. Less than a fifth of smallest CSR spenders allocate funds towards climate action. In contrast, nearly all of the companies with CSR budgets over Rs. 50 crore reserve a portion of their outlay for environment-related projects. European-headquartered MNCs operating in India show markedly higher participation (about two-thirds) than Indian companies (54%), a gap the report links to the influence of stringent European regulatory frameworks, including the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). Growth Without Scale The growth in environmental CSR is being driven almost entirely by a rising number of small and mid-sized projects rather than larger, systemic investments. The number of environmental CSR projects grew 20% over the past three years, while aggregate spending grew only 6% in the same period, leaving the average project size flat at Rs. 45 lakh. Only 29 projects in FY2024 carried budgets of Rs. 10 crore or more, barely up from 22 such projects in FY2020-21. Divergence In Environmental Footprint And Funding The report finds a marked disconnect between industries' environmental footprint and their environmental CSR behaviour. Sectors with some of the largest environmental footprints, including Energy, Mining, and Oil, Gas, Coal & Petroleum, show relatively low participation in environmental CSR. Even where companies in these sectors do undertake environmental initiatives, they allocate only 5-7% of their CSR budgets towards environmental causes, well below several consumer-facing industries. By contrast, consumer-facing sectors such as FMCG, Food and Beverages, and Automotive, despite a comparatively lighter environmental footprint, allocate over 10% of CSR spend to environmental causes, a pattern the report attributes to brand positioning and consumer-facing ESG commitments rather than direct impact alignment. Climate-Vulnerable Districts Underfunded The report's starkest finding concerns geography. Nearly 45% of environmental CSR funding is directed to pan-India or multi-state programmes, and a further 22% flows to Tier-1 cities, leaving just over a third of funding for more localised, place-based interventions. States including Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh, all classified as highly climate-vulnerable, receive less than Rs. 25 per capita in environmental CSR. The pattern sharpens at the district level: among India's 50 most climate-vulnerable districts, 30 of them received only 1% (Rs. 106 crore) of total environmental CSR spending over the past three years, with a handful of districts in Assam alone accounting for 60% of what little vulnerable-region funding exists. Traditional Themes Dominate Among high-value environmental CSR projects (Rs. 50 lakh and above) in FY2023-24, Water Management (15%), Renewable Energy (12%), and Biodiversity (11%) together account for 38% of all high-value project funding. Air quality, despite its acute public health relevance, received just Rs. 14 crore, around 5% of the high-value project pool reflecting the longer gestation periods and more complex measurement frameworks associated with system-level environmental interventions. The report identifies Rs. 243 crore directed over the past three years towards emerging themes such as public transport and climate. Among high-value environmental CSR projects (Rs. 50 lakh and above) in FY2023-24, Water Management (15%), Renewable Energy (12%), and Biodiversity (11%) together account for 38% of all high-value project funding. Air quality, despite its acute public health relevance, received just Rs. 14 crore, around 5% of the high-value project pool reflecting the longer gestation periods and more complex measurement frameworks associated with system-level environmental interventions. The report identifies Rs. 243 crore directed over the past three years towards emerging themes such as public transport, climate governance and carbon MRV, and circular economy alongside nearly Rs. 500 crore embedded within Health, Livelihoods, and Education CSR programmes that integrate water, clean energy, and climate-resilience programmes. What This Means For Corporate India "India's climate ambitions will require every form of capital to work more strategically. As climate risks increasingly affect business operations, supply chains and communities, CSR has an opportunity to evolve from project-based philanthropy into catalytic capital, supporting climate-vulnerable regions, strengthening ecosystem resilience, and complementing broader sustainability and ESG efforts," said Srikrishna Sridhar Murthy, Co-founder and CEO, Sattva Consulting . Looking Ahead The report's authors argue that as ESG disclosure norms tighten and climate risk becomes more immediate for business operations, CSR has an opportunity to evolve from a fragmented, theme-led funding mechanism into a more targeted, catalytic lever for climate resilience. It should align more closely with industry's environmental footprint, channel funding towards India's most climate-vulnerable geographies, and complement existing project-led giving with longer-horizon, systemic interventions in areas such as air quality, circular economy, and climate governance. Realising this shift, the report notes, will require coordinated, collective action across corporates, philanthropy, and ecosystem actors, rather than standalone funding approaches. The report is based on an analysis of CSR disclosures filed with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) for FY2014-15 to FY2023-24, covering 17,377 crore in spending across Environmental Sustainability, Conservation of Natural Resources, and Agroforestry. www.sattva.co.in/quick-read/environmental-csr-in-india-lessons-from-%e2%82%b917000-crore-of-investments/ . About Sattva Consulting Sattva Consulting is a global impact consulting firm from India. Since 2009, we have engaged with communities, business, and government to achieve societal impact at scale. We believe that Civil society, Business, and Government all have a critical role to play in building an equitable and sustainable world, and we actively partner with all stakeholders to enable impact through our advisory and orchestration services, knowledge and data platforms—built as public goods for the ecosystem, and collaborative solutions and partnerships. To know more, visit sattva.co.in . About India Data Insights India Data Insights (IDI), an initiative by Sattva Consulting, aims to empower India’s development sector with actionable, ready-to-use data insights to enable sharper decisions and maximise impact. Built as a public good, IDI consolidates public data across SDG practice areas on one, unified platform, offering insightful visualisations, interactives, blogs and ready-to-use-charts and dashboards. To know more, visit indiadatainsights.com .
Quote of the Day: Walt Whitman's quote Happiness, not in another place but this place...not for another hour, but this hour encourages finding happiness in the present moment. This timeless message reminds us that joy exists right here and now and many people postpone happiness by waiting for future achievements and goals.
Too many trucks, too many zeros: Army audit drive exposes flaws as Pentagon nears 2028 goal
The Pentagon aims for its first clean financial audit by 2028. New systems are uncovering numerous data entry errors in financial records. These mistakes include incorrect zeros and misplaced letters in inventory tracking. The Army's new digital dashboard provides a unified view of spending. This consolidated data helps correct errors and improve financial accountability.
Can VR help you achieve your goals?
A Max Planck researcher has developed VR and smartphone tools that let you meet your future self. The science behind it is more powerful than it sounds.
The world’s largest cleft-focused organization, Smile Train, concluded the Indo-Africa Cleft Conference in Goa today. Building on the initiative first established in 2012, Indo-Africa Synergy 2026 brought Smile Train's India and Africa teams together to exchange knowledge and experience and collaborate towards advancing sustainable cleft care. Indo-Africa Cleft Conference Synergy 2026: Excelling Together The conference brought together surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, speech therapists, orthodontists and multidisciplinary cleft care professionals from Smile Train’s two largest regions, reaffirming its commitment to stronger, locally led sustainable healthcare systems through collaboration, continuous learning and knowledge exchange. Over the past decade, both India and Africa have made significant strides in expanding access to comprehensive cleft care in their own regions. Each region has developed unique areas of excellence shaped by real-world experience and field-led innovation. Indo-Africa Cleft Conference 2026 was designed to bring these learnings together, creating opportunities to exchange proven approaches, adopt best practices and jointly develop solutions that strengthen cleft care across both regions while contributing to Smile Train's global pursuit of ensuring every child born with a cleft has access to safe, timely and comprehensive care. Speaking on the occasion, Mamta Carroll, Senior Vice President and Regional Director, Asia, Smile Train , said, "Indo-Africa Synergy represents much more than a conference; it reflects how Smile Train believes sustainable change happens. Over the past decade, both India and Africa have built remarkable expertise through locally led program, and today we can learn from one another as equal partners. By sharing knowledge, strengthening skills and co-creating solutions, we are investing not only in healthcare professionals but also in better outcomes for every child born with a cleft. This collaboration demonstrates that when expertise is shared across borders, its impact extends far beyond any one country ." Nkeiruka Obi, Vice President and Regional Director, Smile Train, Africa , added, “ India and Africa bring together two of Smile Train’s largest and most experienced programs, each with deep expertise gained over years in providing safe and high-quality comprehensive cleft care within diverse local contexts. In our shared commitment to healthcare equity, this conference offers a valuable opportunity to learn from our experiences, share practical solutions, and innovations, while strengthening capacity of cleft care professionals. By advancing South–South collaboration, we truly can accelerate access to quality cleft care for more children and families in our communities .” The two-day program featured expert discussions, knowledge sharing and hands-on workshops covering surgical excellence, patient safety and comprehensive cleft care. Participants also exchanged experiences on advocacy, engagement and healthcare system strengthening, recognizing that sustainable cleft care extends beyond surgery to encompass the entire continuum of care. The conference truly reflects Smile Train's sustainable model of strengthening local healthcare systems by investing in medical professionals through continuous training, mentorship and global knowledge exchange. By fostering collaboration between India and Africa, Smile Train is building stronger local capacity and advancing comprehensive cleft care for children in both regions. Smile Train programs in Africa began in 2002 and since then, they have spread across nearly 40 countries, transforming the lives of 200,000+ cleft-affected individuals. Since 2000, Smile Train has supported more than 800,000 free cleft surgeries across India through a network of 130+ partner hospitals. For cleft treatment-related queries or support, please call the India toll-free helpline number: 1800 103 8301 . For more information, please log on to www.smiletrainindia.org .
'Involving Family Is So Low': British Outlet Under Fire For Targetting Lionel Messi
The article titled Lionel Messi's full humiliation laid bare: Left crying as his Argentine thugs disgraced themselves... how this World Cup exposed the GOAT's dark arts shame slammed Lionel Messi and Argentina for resorting to dirty tactics.
Crickets governing body shifts the goalposts for the usual reasons
To change the format 15 months ahead of the World Cup with no assurance it wont be changed again brings no credit to the ICC. Guaranteeing at least two India v Pakistan matches, perhaps even three, is a strong motivation
Goa has officially raised the casino entry age to twenty-one years. This new rule mandates stricter identity verification for all casino operators. Travellers planning a visit must now carry valid government-issued photo identification. Families with young adults under twenty-one will not be permitted in gaming areas. This regulation aligns casino entry with Goa's legal drinking age.
Before the world wakes up, Ankur Warikoo gives himself 5 hours. His morning routine explains why
Ankur Warikoo shared his morning routine, which he says helps him start each day with purpose. He sleeps by 9:30 pm, wakes up at 4:50 am, meditates, reads, spends time with family, plays tennis, works out and follows an 18-hour fast. Warikoo said the goal of a routine is not simply waking up early but creating time for yourself before giving it to others. He also acknowledged his privilege of having household support.
BITSAT 2026 Iteration IV seat allotment result will be released today, July 22, 2026. Candidates can check their allotment status through the BITS admission portal using their application number and password. Students receiving seats must complete fee payment by July 25 and report physically between July 28 and July 30. The article covers expected rank ranges, campus-wise cutoff trends and important admission timelines for BITS Pilani, Goa and Hyderabad campuses.
InsuranceDekho enters cricket sponsorship with India's Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka tours
InsuranceDekho has secured prominent deal with Indian cricket team to elevate its brand visibility. Notably, they are the title sponsor for India's Test series in Sri Lanka and the co-presenting sponsor for the T20I series in Zimbabwe. This strategic move complements their 'Bharat, Khul Kar Khelo' initiative, with the goal of driving greater insurance awareness and accessibility across the nation.
Today's Quote of the Day by Miguel de Cervantes reminds us that remarkable achievements begin long before successthey begin with the courage to try. His timeless words, In order to attain the impossible, one must attempt the impossible, encourage us to move beyond fear, embrace uncertainty, and take meaningful action. More than four centuries later, this inspiring message continues to resonate with entrepreneurs, students, leaders, artists, and anyone determined to turn an ambitious dream into reality.
Climate finance must reach nations that need it most, says UN Climate Chief
Climate finance is rising but not fast enough for developing nations. Developed countries must triple adaptation finance and deliver USD 300 billion annually by 2035. Accelerating climate technology development and transfer is essential for Paris Agreement goals. India's clean energy investment drives economic growth and creates jobs. Moving quickly to renewable energy offers energy security and sovereignty.
Guillermo Ochoa Retires At 41, Closing A 22-Year Career For Club And Country
Guillermo Ochoa, widely considered among the greatest Mexican goalkeepers in history, announced his retirement from elite soccer on Tuesday, bringing an end to a distinguished 22-year professional career.
Indian philosophy and spirituality live in our everyday traditions: LG Manoj Sinha
The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha today addressed the Shakti Mimamsa national symposium, a collaborative initiative by the Central Sanskrit University (Jammu Campus), Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University. He said the deliberation on the spiritual heritage of the 51 Shakti Peethas over the next 4-days will allow us to reconnect with the ancient Sanatana consciousness that has long defined Indias soul. Shakti is the very heartbeat and sustaining consciousness of the cosmos. It manifests in all motion and creation, shining through compassion, knowledge, love, patience, and life itself. From Vedic hymns and Upanishadic philosophy to the Devi Mahatmya, every facet of Indias spiritual heritage highlights that the Supreme Reality and Shakti are eternally inseparable, the Lieutenant Governor said. He said the Indian philosophy and spirituality are not just found in ancient texts but they live in our everyday traditions. One can see this in village prayers, household Navaratri rituals, and our natural respect for motherly power. In our villages, countless women who have never read a word of Sanskrit embody the true spirit of Shakti through their daily lives. This is the heartbeat of Indias cultural and spiritual continuity. The Shakti Peethas are powerful symbols of our national unity and beacons of our shared cultural consciousness. A nations unity is built from shared memories, shared faiths and shared cultural journeys. The Shakti Peethas have carried out this work for centuries. They have united India not merely geographically but emotionally and spiritually as well, he said. The Lieutenant Governor said that an academic focus on the Shakti Peethas is more urgent today than ever, driven by several key goals. He said, we must revive our ancient knowledge system and our youth need to realise that these sacred sites are living libraries of Indian philosophy, architecture, art, music, science, and history. Our ancestors chose these locations not just for spiritual reasons, but for their natural and cultural importance. Studying these sacred places is rigorous research that helps us understand Indias ancient knowledge traditions on their own terms. The second dimension is the renaissance of feminine consciousness. The whole world knows that from ancient times India has revered women as goddesses. We worship Mother Durga, Mother Saraswati, Mother Lakshmi and Mother Shakti. Yet we must ask ourselves whether our social systems are providing every daughter, every sister and every mother the respect that our culture teaches. Remember that worship of the Goddess becomes meaningful only when respect for women becomes a natural part of our conduct. True worship of Shakti lies in ensuring equality, safety, dignity and opportunities for women in society, the Lieutenant Governor said. He said the third goal is preserving our heritage. The Lieutenant Governor observed that many of our ancient manuscripts, inscriptions, folktales, and architectural wonders are fading away and without proper documentation today, future generations will lose this priceless legacy. This four-day symposium is a vital national mission to safeguard our cultural memory. The fourth goal is building national confidence. While many societies worldwide face an identity crisis, India stands strong with its unique cultural unity. The network of Shakti Peethas has kept our nation connected through shared faith and culture for centuries. Our youth should take immense pride in this. Through facts, evidence, and rigorous study, they can discover the true depth of Indian civilisation. This knowledge will not only boost their confidence but also help present Indias rich cultural identity to the world more effectively, the Lieutenant Governor said. Padma Shri Prof. Vishwa Murti Shastri; Prof. Shrinivasa Varkhedi, Vice Chancellor, Central Sanskrit University; Prof. Pragati Kumar, Vice Chancellor, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University; Alok Kumar Maurya, Additional CEO, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board; Prof. R.G. Murali Krishna, Registrar, Central Sanskrit University; Prof. Satish Kumar Kapoor, Director, Shri Maharaja Ranbir Singh Campus, Jammu; distinguished scholars, and students attended the national symposium.
China to Develop Modern Integrated Transportation System
Beijing, July 22: The Chinese State Councils news office held a briefing on Tuesday. During this event, Deputy Minister of Transport Xu Changguang announced that China has entered a new phase in traffic and transportation development. The primary goal is to establish a fundamentally modern integrated transportation system during the 15th Five-Year Plan. Xu Changguang ... Read more China to Develop Modern Integrated Transportation System
CUK participates in empowering India 2026 at Goa
The three-day national event Empowering India 2026, held at Goa from 18 to 20 July 2026, concluded with a valedictory ceremony attended by representatives of participating institutions from across the country. On behalf of the Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir), Prof. Shahid Rasool, Dean, Academic Affairs, received the Certificate of Participation. The delegates representing the University were also awarded certificates. Speaking during the valedictory session, Prof. Shahid Rasool said the CUKashmir strongly encourages participation in such national platforms as they promote academic collaboration, research, innovation, and meaningful engagement among educational institutions, industry, and government organizations. He emphasized that such events provide opportunities for knowledge sharing, institutional networking, and showcasing the academic and research strengths of universities. The three-day event witnessed participation from leading higher educational institutions, including National Institutes of Technology (NITs), NCERT, Government Departments of Goa, agricultural institutions, and other organizations from across the country. Through exhibitions and interactive sessions, the participants showcased their academic programmes, research achievements, innovations, and best practices. During the event, CUKashmir received an encouraging response from students, academicians, researchers, government officials, and visitors, who interacted with the University's representatives and appreciated its academic programmes, research initiatives, and student-centric activities. The University's participation reaffirmed its commitment to promote excellence in higher education, research, innovation, and contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
Prevention and Screening in Older Adults
Advances in modern medicine have enabled people to live longer than ever before. While increased life expectancy is a remarkable achievement, healthy aging involves more than simply living longerit means maintaining independence, physical function, mental well-being, and a good quality of life. As the population ages, preventive healthcare has become increasingly important in helping older adults remain active, healthy, and engaged in their communities. Many of the health problems that affect older adults, including high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, vision and hearing loss, certain cancers, and memory disorders, often develop gradually and may not cause symptoms in their early stages. Regular health screening allows these conditions to be identified early, when treatment is most effective and complications can often be prevented. Equally important are preventive measures such as vaccination, balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, smoking cessation, adequate sleep, medication review, and fall prevention, all of which contribute significantly to healthy aging. Preventive care in older adults is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Every individual ages differently, and healthcare decisions should be tailored to a persons overall health, existing medical conditions, functional status, life expectancy, and personal preferences. Regular consultations with a healthcare provider help ensure that screening tests and preventive interventions are appropriate, evidence-based, and aligned with the individuals health goals. Healthy aging is a shared responsibility between individuals, families, healthcare professionals, and society. By embracing regular screening and preventive healthcare, many illnesses can be detected early or prevented altogether, allowing older adults not only to live longer but also to enjoy healthier, more independent, and fulfilling lives. As the saying goes, prevention is always better than cureand in older age, it is one of the most effective investments in lifelong health. A framework for individualized decision making for preventive medical interventions should include an understanding of patient values and preferences, overall life and health expectancy, the potential harms of the intervention and the expected time-to-benefit of the intervention. First, estimate life expectancy. By definition prevention involves an intervention in the present to avoid illness in the future. Although it is impossible for clinicians to predict the exact life expectancy of an individual person, it is possible to use clinical judgement to make reasonable estimates of whether a person is likely to live substantially longer or shorter than an average person in his/her age cohort. Second, determine the time-to-benefit for a preventive intervention. Third, review the most likely benefits of prevention. Fourth, review the most likely harms of prevention. Application of screening principles to specific cancers Breast cancer: A survival meta-analysis of randomized trials of screening mammography suggested that it takes 11 years to prevent 1 breast cancer death after screening 1000 women. Benefits: mammography is the only screening modality that has been shown in randomized controlled trials to decrease breast cancer mortality. Harms: among women aged 75 and older who undergo biennial screening mammography, the cumulative probability of a false positive mammogram over 10 years ranges from 14% to 27% and this risk nearly doubles when women are screened annually. Frail older women are at increases risk for experiencing harms from screening. Recommendations: the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends mammography every 2 years for women age 50-74, stating the evidence is insufficient to assess the additional benefits and harms of screening in women 75yrs and older. The American Cancer Society recommends annual screening among women 45 to 54 years old and biennial screening among women 55 years or older and a life expectancy of greater than 10 years. Colorectal Cancer A survival meta-analysis of randomized trials of screening fecal occult blood testing for colorectal cancer suggested that it takes 10 years to prevent 1 colorectal cancer death after screening 1000 persons. Benefits: methods for screening for colorectal cancer include FOBT, fecal immunochemical testing, flexible sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy. Guaiac-based FOBT has the strongest evidence for screening efficacy based on three European randomized controlled trials showing reductions in colorectal cancer-specific mortality of 11% to 16% and a large US trial showing reductions of 22% to 32% overall and a 53% reduction among adults 70 to 80 yrs old. Harms: colonoscopy is the standard work-up following a positive FOBT and may have serious complications such as perforation (1/1000), serious bleeding (3/1000), cardiorespiratory events (12/1000) and death ( 1/1000). Recommendations: the USPSTF recommends colorectal cancer screening for all older adults age 45-75 and that screening decisions should be selectively offered to persons 76 to 85 years of age based on health and prior screening history. The ACS recommends screen all adults 45-75 yrs if life expectancy >10 yrs. Individualized decisions in adults 76-85 y based on preferences, life expectancy, health status and prior screening history. Discourage screening in adults >85y. Cervical cancer: There are no data about the time to benefit for cervical cancer screening in women 65yr or older. Routine vaccination for human papilloma virus (HPV) strains related to cervical cancer occurrence in younger adults is expected to lower the incidence of cervical cancer in future generations. Recommendations: guidelines recommend cervical cancer screening with cytology every 3 yr for women age 21 to 65. Combining cytology testing with HPV testing every 5 years may provide added benefit. Lung cancer: Two large trials of low-dose lung CT scans show reductions in lung cancer-specific mortality after 6 years. Potential benefits: the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) found that among current and former heavy smokers age 55 to 74, low-dose lung CT scans decreased lung cancer mortality by 20%. Specifically, for 1000 persons screened, 4 lung cancer deaths would be avoided in 6 years. Potential harms: false positives are common with low dose CT scans of the lung; in one trial 39% of people who received a CT scan had at least 1 positive test result and 96% of positive results were false positives. Complications after invasive lung procedures may occur 1 in 5 older adults and rates may be higher for older adults in worse health. Additional harms include anxiety from false-positive results, frequent need for follow up, repeat imaging, financial strain, and radiation exposure. Recommendation: the ACS and USPSTF recommend annual low-dose CT Scans for lung cancer screening in adults 55 to 74 yrs old (or upto 80 in USPSTF guidelines) who have a 30- pack- year history and currently smoke or quit within the last 15 years. Prostate Cancer Screening: the USPSTF and American Cancer Society recommend that men age 55 to 69 make an individualized decision about PSA screening after discussion with a clinician and consideration of life expectancy (typically greater than 10-15 yrs), and recommend against screening in men older than 70 yrs old. Treatments for many asymptomatic chronic medical conditions impose immediate risks and burdens on patients with the promise of delayed benefits. IMMUNIZATIONS In contrast to screening interventions the risks associated with immunizations are much lower than the benefits. Thus targeting is less important and nearly all older adults should receive the pneumococcal vaccination, annual influenza vaccination, and zoster vaccination. Pneumococcal vaccination: the US Advisory Council on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends all older adults older than age 65 sequentially receive both the Pneumococcal Conjugate vaccine (PCV 13) followed in 6 to 12 months by the Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine (PPSV 23). Influenza vaccination; its recommended for all persons older than 6 months. There is some evidence that a high dose influenza vaccine may be more effective in eliciting immunogenic response in adults older than age 65. Tetanus/Diptheria/Pertussis: The ACIP recommends that all adults receive Td (Tetanus/Diptheria) or Tdap booster every 10 years. In addition adults older than age 65 should receive a one time dose of Tdap (tetanus/diptheria/acellular pertussis) if they have not received pertussis revaccination after age 19 in lieu of Td vaccination. Zoster vaccination: the ACIP recommends 2- dose RZV Vaccination for adults age 50 and older, including those who have previously received the ZVL vaccination. The ZVL remains a recommended vaccine in adults age 60 or older. Behaviours to maintain health Like immunization, healthy behaviors have few, if any, adverse outcomes, meaning that they can be recommended to nearly all older adults. However unlike immunizations which are initiated and provided by the healthcare system, healthy behaviors require a personal commitment from individual patients. Nutrition counselling : Screening tools or questions: mini nutritional assessment; malnutrition screening tool; food insecurity screens Intervention: healthy diet counselling, including the Mediterranean diet when appropriate. Prevention of malnutrition can include addressing polypharmacy, dental health, food insecurity, depression, reducing mealtime isolation, and avoiding restrictive diets when not needed. Physical activity: Screening tools: frequency of walking, light sports or recreational activity, stretching or balance activities, and housework. Frequency of sedentary behaviour. Intervention: 30-min or more of moderate-intensity exercise 5 d a week. Flexibility, stretching, and balance exercise can complement strength and endurance training. Provide individualized guidance for older adults with pain, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, or at risk of falling. Consider starting with light-intensity, low impact physical activity if needed. Social connection: Screening tools: abbreviated Berkman-Syme social network index; UCLA 3-item loneliness questionnaire; frequency of engagement in community activities; availability of friends, relatives and children. Intervention: ask if individuals like more social contact, what types of contact they prefer and connect individuals to community programs. Identify and address barriers to interacting with others such as hearing impairment, functional impairment, or cognitive impairment. Depression: Screening tools: Patient Health Questionnaire 2-item or 9-item screen (PHQ-2 or PHQ-9) Intervention: further assessment of older adults screening positive for depression to ensure accurate diagnoses, effective treatment and follow up. Dr Murassa Shamshad is a Geriatrician in the Department of Health Kashmir
Conversation Every Family Should Have
At present, I am caring for several frail, bedridden older adults through home-based care. Some have advanced dementia. Others have end-stage heart failure, stroke, advanced cancer or multiple organ dysfunction. They are receiving everything modern medicine recommendsappropriate investigations, evidence-based medicines, nutritional support, wound care, pain control, physiotherapy, caregiver education and regular monitoring. Yet their illnesses continue to progress. This is not a failure of medicine. It is the natural course of many diseases. Unfortunately, many families struggle to accept this reality. Perhaps nowhere is this more visible than in Kashmir. THE QUESTION NOBODY WANTS TO ASK Families often ask: Doctor, what else can we do? Sometimes they are not asking for treatment. They are asking for hope. Medicine should always offer hope. But hope changes. In the beginning, hope means cure. Later it becomes control of disease. Eventually, for some patients, hope becomes comfort, dignity and freedom from suffering. Understanding when hope changes is one of the hardest lessons in medicine. We are taught to fight disease. But not every battle can be won. Modern medicine has transformed countless lives. Heart attacks can be opened with angioplasty. Many cancers can be cured. Hip fractures can be replaced. Kidneys can be supported with dialysis. But medicine also has boundaries. A 92-year-old with advanced dementia, severe frailty, recurrent aspiration pneumonia, kidney failure and severe malnutrition is very different from a healthy 65-year-old with early-stage cancer. Their biological reserves are not the same. Their ability to recover is not the same. Treating both patients identically would actually be poor medical practice. ONE SHOE NEVER FITS EVERY PATIENT People often compare treatment between relatives. Our neighbour underwent surgery. My uncle received chemotherapy. Someone survived after being flown to Delhi. These comparisons are understandablebut medically misleading. Treatment is never based on disease alone. It is based on the whole person. Doctors consider: Agebut more importantly, biological age. Frailty. Functional status. Nutrition. Memory and cognition. Heart, lung and kidney reserve. Quality of life. Patient wishes. Expected benefit versus expected harm. A treatment that saves one patient may seriously harm another. Evidence-based medicine is not about doing everything. It is about doing the right thing for the right patient at the right time. THERE ARE THREE KINDS OF ILLNESSES This is something every family should understand. Curable Illnesses Can be treated and cured. Examples: Pneumonia, urinary tract infection, tuberculosis (with treatment), appendicitis, cataract. Chronic but Controllable Illnesses Cannot be cured but can be managed for many years. Examples: Diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, asthma, chronic kidney disease (early stages), hypothyroidism. Advanced or Life-Limiting Illnesses Treatments no longer change the course of the illness. The focus shifts to comfort, dignity, and symptom control (palliative care). Examples: Advanced cancer, end-stage heart failure, advanced COPD, end-stage kidney disease (not on dialysis), advanced dementia, motor neuron disease (ALS). Knowing which category a patient belongs to helps families make wiser decisions. It also prevents unnecessary suffering. THE PRESSURE MANY KASHMIRI FAMILIES FACE In Kashmir, another challenge influences medical decisions. Families often fear society more than disease. If an elderly parent dies at home, relatives sometimes ask: Why wasnt he/she taken outside?. Why didnt you spend more?. Could Delhi have saved him?. Why wasnt he admitted to another hospital? Suddenly, grief becomes mixed with guilt. Children feel compelled to pursue every possible interventionnot always because medicine recommends it, but because society expects it. Many families travel hundreds of kilometres. Some spend their lifes savings. Some sell land. Others borrow heavily. Occasionally, these journeys save lives. But sometimes they only prolong suffering during the final days. Medicine should never become a competition to prove how much money was spent. Love cannot be measured by hospital bills. Nor by the number of referrals.Nor by the distance travelled. Sometimes the greatest act of love is ensuring that a parent is comfortable, pain-free and surrounded by family. MORE TREATMENT DOES NOT ALWAYS MEAN BETTER TREATMENT Many people assume that aggressive treatment is always superior. It is not. Every intervention has benefits. Every intervention has burdens. A frail elderly patient may not survive major surgery. Chemotherapy may reduce quality of life more than it prolongs survival. Repeated ICU admissions may increase suffering without changing the final outcome. Ventilators can support breathing. They cannot reverse advanced dementia. Dialysis can replace kidney function. It cannot restore a body that has become too frail to recover. The question should never be: Can this treatment be done? The better question is: Should this treatment be done for this patient? That is the essence of good medical practice. What is advance care planning? Advance care planning simply means discussing future healthcare before a crisis occurs. It includes conversations such as: What matters most to the patient? What quality of life would they consider acceptable? Who should make decisions if they lose capacity? Which treatments would genuinely help? Which treatments would only prolong suffering? In many countries, these wishes are documented formally. India is gradually moving in this direction. Legal recognition of advance directives has evolved through Supreme Court judgments, but formal advance care planning is still uncommon in everyday clinical practice. Most decisions continue to be made collectively by families and treating doctors. Our culture is deeply family-centred. That is one of our strengths. But families also need honest, compassionate conversations before emergencies arise. CHOOSING COMFORT IS NOT GIVING UP One of the biggest misunderstandings is that palliative care means stopping treatment. It does not. Palliative care continues treatment. It simply changes the goal. Pain is treated. Breathlessness is treated. Anxiety is treated. Pressure sores are prevented. Nutrition is supported where appropriate. Caregivers receive guidance. Symptoms are controlled. Dignity becomes the priority. Comfort care is active care. It is not abandonment. WHAT FAMILIES NEED MOST Families rarely need miracles. They need clarity. They need doctors who explain honestly. They need reassurance that they are not abandoning their loved one. They need permission to choose comfort when cure is no longer possible. Above all, they need freedom from unnecessary guilt. No doctor can promise immortality. No hospital can stop ageing. No amount of money can defeat every disease. But every patient deserves respect. Every patient deserves relief from suffering. Every patient deserves dignity. Perhaps that is the most important treatment medicine can still offer when cure is no longer possible. Because in the final chapter of life, success is not always measured by how long someone lived. Sometimes it is measured by how peacefully they lived until the very end.
IIIT-H Lab Offers Low-cost Fix For Chaotic Roads
At the recent TechForward seminar, Prof. C.V. Jawahar showcased how the Centre for Visual Information Technology (CVIT) at IIITH was building AI not just to detect, but anticipate road risks. Most global models are trained on neat, rule-following traffic. That doesnt help much in India, Prof Jawahar explained. Our goal is to build systems that work amid uncertainty, and on a phone, not just in a lab.
LG for reviving ancient knowledge systems
Srinagar, Jul 21: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday said the deliberation on the spiritual heritage of the 51 Shakti Peethas over the next four days will allow us to reconnect with the ancient Sanatana consciousness that has long defined India's soul. Addressing the Shakti Mimamsa nationalsymposium, a collaborative initiative by the Central Sanskrit University (Jammu Campus), Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University,the LG said, Shakti is the very heartbeat and sustaining consciousness of the cosmos. It manifests in all motion and creation, shining through compassion, knowledge, love, patience, and life itself. From Vedic hymns and Upanishadic philosophy to the Devi Mahatmya, every facet of India's spiritual heritage highlights that the Supreme Reality and Shakti are eternally inseparable. Sinha saidIndian philosophy and spirituality are not just found in ancient texts but live in everyday traditions. One can see this in village prayers, household Navaratri rituals, and our natural respect for motherly power. In our villages, countless women who have never read a word of Sanskrit embody the true spirit of Shakti through their daily lives. This is the heartbeat of India's cultural and spiritual continuity, he said. The LGsaidthat Shakti Peethas are powerful symbols of our national unity and beacons of our shared cultural consciousness. A nation's unity is built from shared memories, shared faiths, and shared cultural journeys. The Shakti Peethas have carried out this work for centuries. They have united India not merely geographically but emotionally and spiritually as well, he said. The Lieutenant Governor outlined four key goals driving the academic focus on Shakti Peethas: 1. Reviving ancient knowledge systems: Youth need to realise that these sacred sites are living libraries of Indian philosophy, architecture, art, music, science, and history. Our ancestors chose these locations not just for spiritual reasons, but for their natural and cultural importance. 2. Renaissance of feminine consciousness: The whole world knows that from ancient times India has revered women as goddesses. Yet we must ask ourselves whether our social systems are providing every daughter, every sister, and every mother the respect that our culture teaches. True worship of Shakti lies in ensuring equality, safety, dignity, and opportunities for women in society, he said. 3. Preserving heritage: The Lieutenant Governor observed that many ancient manuscripts, inscriptions, folktales, and architectural wonders are fading away, and without proper documentation, future generations will lose this priceless legacy. 4. Building national confidence: While many societies worldwide face an identity crisis, India stands strong with its unique cultural unity. The network of Shakti Peethas has kept our nation connected through shared faith and culture for centuries. Our youth should take immense pride in this, he said. The symposium was attended by Padma Shri Prof Vishwa Murti Shastri, Central Sanskrit University Vice Chancellor Prof. Shrinivasa Varkhedi, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University Vice Chancellor Prof Pragati Kumar, SMVDSB Additional CEO Alok Kumar Maurya, Central Sanskrit University Registrar Prof R.G. Murali Krishna, Shri Maharaja Ranbir Singh Campus Director Prof. Satish Kumar Kapoor, distinguished scholars, and students.
Tighter pollution rules now for Goa hotels, restaurants
NT Reporter Panaji In a policy decision impacting pollution control norms for Goas tourism and hospitality establishments, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has revised the pollution index (PI) categorisation of small hotels, restaurants (including cloud kitchens without rooms), banquet halls and resorts. The updated guidelines shift most of these businesses into the orange and []
HC steps up scrutiny of police conduct in Morjim attack case
NT Reporter Panaji A day after the High Court of Bombay at Goa directed the Superintendent of Police, North Goa, to transfer the investigation into the Morjim advocate attack case to an experienced officer from a different police station, it stepped up pressure on the police department on Tuesday. It gave the Inspector General of []
Congress demands BJP apology over termites remark, warns of agitation
Panaji: The Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) demanded an unconditional apology from the BJP within 24 hours for allegedly referring to protesting youth as termites. Congress warned that it would launch a statewide agitation if the ruling party failed to withdraw the remarks attributed to BJP vice president and former MP Narendra Sawaikar. A social []
African Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of He who does not look ahead always remains behind. The saying emphasizes the importance of foresight, planning, and preparing for the future instead of focusing only on the present. It reminds us that progress comes from setting goals, anticipating challenges, and making thoughtful decisions today that create better opportunities tomorrow. Those who develop a long-term vision are more likely to adapt, grow, and move forward, while those who fail to plan risk falling behind.
Punjab & Sind Bank eyes Rs 4 lakh cr business by FY29: Lender bets big on technology transformation
Punjab & Sind Bank is setting ambitious goals, aiming for a staggering 4 lakh crore in business by the fiscal year 2028-29. The bank projects a healthy credit growth ranging from eighteen to twenty percent for the current year. To bolster its growth, it is investing in digital transformation projects aimed at enhancing digital lending capabilities and account acquisition strategies.
Forgotten hero takes center stage
Two plays on the life of Goas freedom struggles first martyr Bala Raya Mapari were recently staged as part of the National Theatre Festival organised by the Sangeet Natak Akademi KALYANI JHA | NT BUZZ Two Goan plays Vande Mataram: Desh Raag and Vande Mataram: Veer Dharma were performed last week as part []
VINIKA VISWAMBHARAN | NT BUZZ Rain has a way of making people pause. Perhaps that is why Goas monsoon feels like the perfect setting for an evening of qawwali, where every verse asks listeners to slow down, reflect, and listen as much with the heart as with the ears. When Tasawwur Qawwali Ensemble takes the []
Quote of the day by Justin Bieber reminds people that talent alone cannot earn approval from everyone. The message explains the value of resilience, self-acceptance and moving forward despite criticism. It encourages people to stop depending on external validation and continue working towards their goals. The quote also reflects Justin Bieber's own experiences as a global music star who faced public attention, criticism and success throughout his career.
Teen kills goat herder to fund Daman trip
Sold Two Of 66-Year-Olds Animals, Left For Excursion
AstroSage.com, Building castle in the air won?t help you. You should do something to live upto family's expectations. Be secretive about your investments and about your future goals. Do not share your personal matters with the casual acquaintances. Today, your lover may feel bad about one of your habits and become annoyed with you. Success and recognition would be yours if you stay focused on your job. Today, you can get involved in an argument with someone without any reason. Doing so will spoil your mood as well as waste your precious time. An old friend of yours might come and remind you the old beautiful memories with your spouse. Lucky Number: 8
Sensitivity of protest venue, stature of LoP led to quicker talks, but Rahul changed goalposts: Govt
Union Minister of State for the Prime Ministers Office (PMO) Jitendra Singh, the governments interlocutor, met LoP Rahul Gandhi at the sit-in; Mr. Singh says Mr. Gandhi initially agreed to suspend the dharna but later also raised the demand of Dharmendra Pradhans ouster as Education Minister; to this, Mr. Singh said it did behove an LoP to change stance
A plain-looking lithium rock is now more valuable to the modern economy than its appearance suggests. Hidden inside are critical minerals that power electric vehicle batteries, smartphones, renewable energy storage, and America's growing clean energy network. The U.S. Geological Survey classifies lithium as a critical mineral because demand continues to rise with battery manufacturing and energy security goals.
Football is simple for complete midfielder Rodri
The Spanish captain, who led La Roja to their second world crown, couldve easily been overlooked for the Golden Ball honours for the glamorous numbers of Messi (eight goals & four assists) or Mbappe (10 & four)
Proverb of the day highlights the saying, When the mantis hunts the locust, he forgets the shrike that's hunting him. The proverb teaches people to avoid tunnel vision and pay attention to risks beyond immediate goals. It explains how focusing only on short-term success can create problems later. The saying also reminds people to understand consequences, think about the bigger picture, and remain aware of changing situations in daily life.
Ipswich Town Signs Dutch Goalkeeper Ken van Oevelen on a Five-Year Deal
New Delhi, July 21: English club Ipswich Town has strengthened its squad ahead of the new Premier League season by signing Dutch goalkeeper Ken van Oevelen on a five-year contract from FC Volendam. The 22-year-old goalkeeper will join the first team at the ongoing pre-season training camp in La Manga, Spain, marking the beginning of ... Read more Ipswich Town Signs Dutch Goalkeeper Ken van Oevelen on a Five-Year Deal
One Launch A Month Our Next Goal After Vikram-1 Success: Skyroot CEO
Pawan Kumar Chandana said SpaceX reached orbit only on its fourth launch attempt, while Skyroot succeeded on its very first attempt.
George Orwells quote, Men can only be happy when they do not assume that the object of life is happiness, highlights why constantly chasing happiness can create dissatisfaction. In his 1944 essay, Arthur Koestler, Orwell explored how pursuing idealised goals can lead to moral conflicts and disappointment. His message suggests that happiness is not a destination but a result of living with purpose, values and meaningful experiences rather than making happiness the sole aim of life.
CM Vijay's 'Jana Nayagan' exceeds Rs 16 crore in India pre-sales
Jana Nayagan's advance ticket sales have surpassed sixteen crore rupees in India. The film's Tamil version has driven significant bookings across key southern states. However, these early figures trail behind Vijay's previous blockbusters Leo and GOAT. Trade experts anticipate a surge in last-minute bookings before its release. Projections suggest an opening day collection between fifty and sixty crore rupees.
'My First Target Will Be To Wear India Jersey': Ashok Sharma Eyes Debut In Zimbabwe T20Is
Zimbabwe T20Is: Fast bowler Ashok Sharma opened up about the emotions of earning his maiden India call-up and stated that wearing the national jersey has been a long-cherished dream as he is targetting an international debut after earning his maiden senior team call-up for the T20I series against Zimbabwe, starting Thursday. The three-match series will be played in Harare from July 23 to 26, with the fast bowler in line to make his first appearance for India. Speaking about his immediate goals ahead of the series, Ashok said representing the country remains his biggest motivation. My first target will be to wear the India jersey. I am waiting for that moment to wear that jersey and represent my nation. I have waited for this for a long time. So that will be the first thing. The second thing is that I will keep doing what I know best. Whatever I have done till now- the hard work in domestic cricket, the preparation and the routines- I will just keep following that. I will stick to my strengths and not try anything extra, he told Jio Star. Ashok also outlined his ambitions for the Zimbabwe tour, saying he wants to make the most of the opportunity if he gets a chance to play. Now that I am in the squad for the series against Zimbabwe, my next target will be to take as many wickets as possible and try to play as many matches as I can. I want to make this opportunity count. My next goal after that will be to play red-ball cricket for India as soon as possible, he added. Before receiving his maiden senior India call-up, Ashok had also been drafted into the India A squad during the tour of Sri Lanka in June. He joined the side after pacer Yudhvir Singh suffered an injury while fielding, earning an opportunity to train and travel with the developmental squad. The young quick also spoke about the fast bowler who has had the biggest influence on his game, naming former South Africa great Dale Steyn as his role model. Before receiving his maiden senior India call-up, Ashok had also been drafted into the India A squad during the tour of Sri Lanka in June. He joined the side after pacer Yudhvir Singh suffered an injury while fielding, earning an opportunity to train and travel with the developmental squad. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I follow him in terms of his aggression, his run-up, his intensity and the way he used to set up batters. Everything about him is inspiring. He is someone I look up to as a fast bowler, he added. Article Source: IANS
Harvard Health Publishing suggests there is science behind the advice Virat Kohli gave PV Sindhu about finding your joy again. According to the publication, neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin and endorphins play a key role in promoting positive emotions. It recommends regular exercise, helping others, meditation, learning new skills, focusing on positive experiences, limiting negativity and pursuing meaningful goals to cultivate lasting joy, especially during difficult times.
Why Spain players cut the goal nets after winning World Cup
Spain celebrated their 2026 FIFA World Cup victory by cutting down goal nets. This tradition was borrowed from American basketball championship celebrations. Ferran Torres scored the winning goal in extra time against Argentina. Spain secured their second World Cup title after a dominant performance. The players took pieces of the net as souvenirs of their triumph.
ED attaches 389 properties worth Rs 240 crore in Grand Venezia Mall money laundering case
The Enforcement Directorate has provisionally attached properties valued at over 240 crore. These assets are linked to a money laundering case involving Bhasin Infotech and Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd. The attached properties include commercial units and real estate in Goa. Investors were allegedly lured with assured returns and timely possession of units. The agency is continuing its investigation into the matter.
Elon Musk suggests assuming one is wrong to encourage learning and personal development. This approach involves questioning current knowledge and identifying potential errors effectively. Mistakes serve as valuable teachers, guiding individuals to avoid repeating past errors. Remaining open to new information and changing circumstances is crucial for continuous growth. Humility allows for listening and receiving constructive criticism, aiding better decision-making.
The discussion highlights the need for innovation, premiumisation and stronger industry government partnership to build globally competitive Indian brands.
'All I Care About Is Winning': Hurdler Tejas Shirse Guns For CWG And Asiad Glory
Hurdler Tejas Shirse: In an era of elite sport where athletes often retreat behind soft platitudes about enjoying the process or gaining valuable exposure on participating in multi-sport events, Tejas Shirse comes across as a refreshingly honest sportsperson. Shirse, 23, the national record holder in the 110-metre hurdles does not run merely to participate, nor is he content with moral victories his sole focus is to just win the competition. Definitely winning is the only goal. I don't want to be there and say that the process is part of it. The process is very important, but that is for me. But for the world, it's winning. All I care about is winning. The world will care about winning. How am I going to get there is my process... but I want to be the best in the world. I want to be the best in what I compete in. If I don't have that mindset, I will never achieve that. I just want to go out there in the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games and just win - that is the only goal, recalls Shirse in an exclusive free-wheeling chat with IANS ahead of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. That singular, unapologetic focus on victory comes at a pivotal moment. Having shattered the Indian national record with a blistering 13.27 seconds performance to lock in his CWG spot at the Indian Athletics Series in Ludhiana and then book his ticket to the Asian Games via clocking 13.43 seconds at the National Inter-State Athletics Championships in Bhubaneshwar. With an aim to make the whole of India fall in love with hurdles, Shirses laser focus has been forged in the fires of immense adversity. Just as he was building peak momentum last year, disaster struck when a severe impact with a hurdle left his ankle injured in multiple places. Because of that, my ankle was almost broken from three-four places... it was just hanging by a thread basically. After that, I was feeling so depressed... despite doing everything right, even though I didn't do anything wrong, something like this has happened to me. Being sidelined for four months during a crucial CWG qualification cycle could have broken a lesser athletes spirit. Coming to terms with it, Shirse poured his raw emotion into a late-night Instagram post - not for public sympathy, but as a mental marker for the mountain he vowed to climb. His recovery became a collaborative masterpiece led by the Reliance Foundation sports science team, including coach James Hillier, physiotherapist Nilesh Makwana, and strength and conditioning coach Kshitij Bhoite. Initially, the goal was merely to get him running pain-free. The Commonwealth Games were deemed an unrealistic target, but then Shirse took a chance at it. When we had a meeting, we thought that we would not plan for the Commonwealth Games. We will just plan to stay and become healthy. I started training in the middle of April and qualification was due at the end of May and the start of June. Qualifying in such a short time and reducing the timing was not realistic. So, we said that we will not do it, but in my mind, it was like if it happens, it is going to be nothing less of a miracle. So, I gave it the name of Mission Miracle - just to keep myself motivated and it happened. Instead of succumbing to panic, Shirse stripped away all external expectations in Ludhiana, especially after clocking 13.67s and 13.50s at the Federation Cup in Ranchi. It was a do or die situation. I don't know, but I just dug deep into my mindset. I told myself that even if I lose from here, I can't go any lower than this. So, why not just give yourself an opportunity to perform at your own level and at your best? I just thought that this was a free hit and told myself, You know what, just do what you are capable of... Don't put pressure on yourself. When he crossed the finish line in Ludhiana, a quick glance at the trackside clock showed 13.27 seconds - well past the required standard of 13.39 seconds. The surge of emotion was instantaneous and a visceral reaction to months of gruelling rehabilitation and self-doubt. Yet, despite the euphoric high of breaking the national record, Shirse has cultivated a steady internal compass to survive the emotional volatility of elite sports. You expect that if I feel good here, I will qualify and then you make dreams for that. I think this is a very mental framing athletes take it in a very wrong way. When you don't perform well, you think everything is over. If you perform very well, it feels like now I am the best. But I have found that I have gone through a lot of turmoil - up and down, then again up and down. Of course, I was happy after that race. But after two-three hours, I was in the same condition. So, I am not very happy and I am not very sad if I win or lose and I think that is helping me perform better at my sport. Shirses hunger for podium finishes stems from humble origins. Growing up in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, facilities were sparse, forcing him to learn the sport through sheer improvisation and internet tutorials. When I used to train, we used to make wooden hurdles. We didn't have those hurdles which are there now. We made wooden hurdles, used to jump to overcome it and then run. It actually represents life as well. There are some obstacles that you have to overcome and then you just keep going. Growing up, I had a lot of issues - financial issues, home and family problems... Hurdles chose me, not me (choosing it). While flat sprints and field events like the javelin throw have historically commanded the spotlight in Indian athletics, Shirse believes the technical brilliance of the 110m hurdles is ripe for a cultural transformation in the country. In layman's terms, people think that 100 meters is the fastest, which is an interesting event. But the 110-meter hurdles is a very technical and interesting event as well. If you see, people didn't even know about javelin throw before. But since Neeraj Chopra has done huge throws and won an Olympics gold as well, then people came to know that there is a game called javelin throw. This thing motivates me - that if I can do something extraordinary for India, then people are going to recognize hurdles as well and that is my goal and mission - that people in India get to know that there is such a sport, which is really interesting. It's not something layman like any other sport. I don't want to compare, but it's a really interesting sport to watch. If you see people in stands, they really love watching 100 meters and hurdles as well. That motivates me to make a name for myself in that game. Cricket wasn't that famous in India before the World Cup was won in 1983. In India, I think we need heroes to worship. We need that person whom we can see and think that he has done it and we will follow him as he has come out of us. So we take really big pride in that situation. I think unless and until somebody goes out there and performs and gives their heart and soul to something for India or for these people who are from your place or from your country, they really love it and I think they will see soon that somebody has been working so hard to represent their country at the world stage, he elaborated. To achieve his dream of standing on the podium at the Commonwealth and Asian Games, Shirse will have to overcome formidable global competition right from the heats to the final race. The Commonwealth lineup features powerhouse hurdlers from Jamaica and the Caribbean, especially Demario Prince, while Asian giants like Japan and China present formidable challenges of their own. Rather than being intimidated by world-class rivals, Shirse relies on a simple tactical principle to manage the environment. The main challenge for me will be to focus more on myself. When I go on the track, I shut down myself - what is he or she doing, I just focus on myself... The more I focus on myself, the less pressure I will take. Pressure is a good thing - I have a quote that Pressure is good when diluted with process. So if I can dilute that pressure that there are so many good athletes here with the process, I think medal-winning chances are as high as they can be. Daily training in a high-performance bubble alongside top sprinters like Jyothi Yarraji, Gurindervir Singh, and Animesh Kujur keeps his competitive edge razor-sharp. You are a product of five people you surround yourself most with. So if you surround yourself with five champions, you become the sixth champion. As the major multi-sport events approach, Shirse is refusing to temper his ambitions or settle for mere participation. The goals are set, the national record is in his keeping, and the focus remains absolute winning and being on the podium. Daily training in a high-performance bubble alongside top sprinters like Jyothi Yarraji, Gurindervir Singh, and Animesh Kujur keeps his competitive edge razor-sharp. You are a product of five people you surround yourself most with. So if you surround yourself with five champions, you become the sixth champion. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Whatever it is, but you have to try and become your best self and to achieve your best performance and then think that nobody else runs faster than you. You have to run the fastest and win - that's the only thing you can control. I really hope it turns out to be exciting and I learn a lot from it, signed off Shirse. Article Source: IANS
Konrad Laimer Extends Bayern Munich Contract To 2029
Laimer has made 136 competitive appearances for Bayern, scoring seven goals and providing 19 assists. His versatility has allowed him to play in several positions, although he has established himself primarily at right back.
How Spain built a soccer identity that conquered the world
New York, Jul 21: Spanish soccer has reached a level of its own. Spain's World Cup victory on Sunday added to the nation's long list of recent triumphs across men's, women's and youth competitions, highlighting the dominance of a system that has stuck to a tactical identity and the development of collective talent. The men's team is also the current European champion, the Olympic gold medalist and has reached the Nations League final twice winning it once. The women's squad is the defending World Cup champion and a two-time Women's Nations League winner. It also made it to the final of the 2025 European Championship. Spain is the first nation to hold both the men's and women's World Cup titles at the same time and is the only country with two men's World Cup triumphs this century. The nation also has won several youth tournaments in recent years with both the men's and women's teams. The men's senior squad has been racking up titles since it was gradually revamped after the demise of a golden generation that won the nation's first World Cup in 2010 with the likes of Andrs Iniesta, Xavi Hernndez, Sergio Ramos and Gerard Piqu. Players such as Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubars, Rodri and Ferran Torres the goal scorer in the 1-0 win over Argentina in Sunday's final now are the ones representing a new generation that has taken La Roja back to the top. I'm very emotional looking back, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said. We've talked about it with the players; we have won everything, it's wonderful It's a generation of players that has been an example for Spanish sports, for young Spaniards, for Spain. Together we are stronger. Spain hadn't gone past the last 16 of the men's World Cup since winning the title in South Africa in 2010. It has been in contention in nearly every competition it has played since De la Fuente's arrival in 2022 and it's 38-match unbeaten streak is the longest in men's international soccer. Collective talent Despite a very talented group of players, it has been Spain's collective performance that has impressed the most and the team hasn't had to rely on star players. It also has been thriving defensively, with a solid backline and a relentless pursuit to regain possession. We played against the best national squads in the world, but we were the best team in the world, De la Fuente said. I'm very proud of this generation of players. They have grown with this idea, they've been loyal to this idea, they have given us an example of a group, of a team, of a family. I'm very proud of them. It's been an honor. How can other teams possibly replicate the Spanish system? Go to work, former France player Thierry Henry, a commentator for Fox Sports, said after the final. Think about how you want to go about it at every level and play the same way. This is why they are dominating world football on every level, men and women, it doesn't really matter, they go about it the same way. Youth-system success The recent wave of success can be tracked to the surprise hiring of De la Fuente to replace Luis Enrique following the team's elimination against Morocco in the round of 16 of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. De la Fuente was relatively unknown at the time, but the Spanish soccer federation knew him well. By hiring him, Spain was actually betting on its youth system as De la Fuente had been coaching Spain's younger national teams for some time. He was well versed in the soccer federation's process of instilling a tactical identity at all levels, from the bottom up and across men's and women's squads, allowing players from youth teams to go through a seamless transition to the main squads. It was the case for players such as Yamal, Cubars, Nico Williams, Pedri and Gavi, who are among the youngsters set to keep Spain's men's team thriving for some time. When you look at everything that we've gone through, you realize how this process was important, De la Fuente said. Certainly, we wouldn't have been able to do what we did today if we hadn't gone through this process with these players. And it's not something that happened during this World Cup, it has been happening for several years. Tactical identity Spain's tiki-taka style of valuing ball possession and focusing on quick passing, which led to the 2010 World Cup title and victories at Euro 2008 and Euro 2012, had come under attack after the national team began to struggle. Some said the style lacked efficiency, and a few coaches made some changes to it over time. But Spain never fully abandoned the idea of controlling ball possession to dominate games. Part of De la Fuente's success stemmed from his ability to get his squad to successfully mix ball possession and efficiency. And it showed as Spain led this year's World Cup in both passing and attempts on goal. Coaching prowess De la Fuente's recent success quickly put him in the group of Spanish coaches who have been leading national teams and helping clubs thrive across the globe. Pep Guardiola, Luis Enrique, Mikel Arteta, Unai Emery, Xabi Alonso and Roberto Martnez are among the successful coaches spreading Spanish tactics everywhere another sign of the nation's prominence in global soccer. We are exactly where we want to be, De la Fuente said. We are privileged to represent a wonderful national team with exceptional players. But the real merit we have is to seek good travel companions, people with values and principles who make our lives easier and at the same time are very talented. We'll enjoy this now, because it's historic, and then we will start thinking match by match again.
From small contributions to big dreams
Ashok Padapati founded Vadhanya Jana Society with one clear goal. The post From small contributions to big dreams appeared first on Fusion - WeRIndia .
