IIT project: CM says Farmagudi shrine area wont be touched
Campus to be set up entirely on govt land Special Correspondent Panaji: Stating that there is no reason to oppose the setting up of IIT Goas permanent campus in Farmagudi, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Monday assured that even a small part of the Katamgal Dada area in the vicinity of this proposed campus will []
Goa saw 46 road fatalities in April and May: Govt data
Panaji: Goa recorded 459 road accidents in April and May 2026, resulting in 46 deaths and injuries to 243 people, indicating a worrying rise in overall crashes and serious injuries. Although fatalities declined marginally in May, the Directorate of Transport data point to the continuing vulnerability of two-wheeler users. The state reported 217 accidents in []
GCZMA tightens beach wedding norms
No blanket nod for events within buffer zone of sand dunes and turtle nesting sites Abdul Wahab Khan Panaji : Taking a serious note of alleged violations involving beach wedding events in ecologically sensitive coastal areas, the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) has decided against granting any blanket permission for such events within the []
No swimming in natural water bodies
Margao: Collector of South Goa and Kushavati districts Egna Cleetus has prohibited swimming, bathing and entering waterfalls, abandoned quarries, rivers, lakes and other natural water bodies across the district for 60 days as a precautionary measure to prevent drowning incidents during the monsoon. The order came into effect on June 26 and will remain in []
Industry body seeks 12-month transition for labour codes
Panaji: The Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has urged the state government to provide a minimum transition period of 12 months for the implementation of the four Labour Codes. GCCI President Pratima Dhond said the transition period would enable companies to comply with the requirements under the new Labour Codes while avoiding additional []
Mumbai, June 30: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rain alert for Maharashtra over the next few days. According to the weather department, widespread rainfall is expected in the Konkan and Goa regions, central Maharashtra, and parts of Marathwada from June 29 to July 5. Some areas may experience severe thunderstorms, lightning, ... Read more Heavy Rain Alert Issued for Maharashtra: Intense Showers Expected in Konkan-Goa and Central Maharashtra
Broadly considered one of the greatest soccer players of all time, Argentinas Lionel Messi set a new record as the top goalscorer in World Cup history. The Onion shares everything you need to know about the eight-time Ballon dOr winner. Age: 39, minus stoppage time Favorite Charity: Major League Soccer Catchphrase: Net Worth: Cant [] The post Player Profile: Lionel Messi appeared first on The Onion .
Canara Bank, Bank of Baroda, Indian Bank pay Rs 7,023 cr dividend to govt for FY26
Three public sector banks, Canara Bank, Bank of Baroda, and Indian Bank, collectively disbursed Rs 7,023 crore in dividends to the government for the 2025-26 fiscal year. Canara Bank contributed Rs 2,397 crore, BoB Rs 2,811 crore, and Indian Bank Rs 1,815.05 crore. These payouts underscore the banks' robust financial performance and their dedication to national development goals.
10-year 'No Entry' exemption for first 1,000 electric medium-duty trucks under Delhi EV Policy
Delhi is offering a significant perk to the first 1,000 electric N2 trucks registered under its new policy: a decade-long exemption from 'No Entry' timings. This initiative, effective July 1, aims to accelerate the adoption of cleaner commercial transport and combat pollution, with the goal of a pollution-free city by March 2030. The move targets medium-duty goods carriers, encouraging fleet operators to switch from diesel.
The Team Neymar Simply Can't Stop Scoring Against
No country has conceded more international goals to Neymar than Japan. In fact, he has scored more against them than he has managed against Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador or the United States.
Best Italian Proverb of the Day: Happiness is made of - How small moments create big happiness
Proverb of the Day: Discover the profound truth that genuine happiness isn't found in grand achievements but in life's simple pleasures. From a warm chat to a peaceful morning, these everyday moments build lasting joy. The article urges us to cherish these small wonders, which often go unnoticed as we chase bigger goals. Embracing these little joys can significantly boost your mental well-being and enrich your life.
West Bengal's Chief Minister announced the draft Uniform Civil Code bill will be presented to the state Cabinet on July 2, preceding its Assembly introduction. This move aligns with the BJP's election promise to implement UCC, aiming for a unified set of civil laws across religions. While Goa has a long-standing common code, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, and Assam have recently passed their own UCC legislation.
'It's not only Iyer's fault': Ex-cricketer urges India to 'address the elephant in the room'
Former India batter Manoj Tiwary has questioned who will take responsibility for India's 2-0 T20I series defeat to Ireland, arguing that captain Shreyas Iyer should not be made the sole scapegoat. Tiwary urged critics to address the elephant in the room, indirectly pointing towards the team management and coaching staff led by Gautam Gambhir for the disappointing result.
Brazil Manager Hits Back At Japan Star With 'Mind Games' Remark Ahead Of World Cup Clash
Brazil and Japan last met in a friendly last October, when the Asian side recovered from two goals down to win 3-2 in Tokyo.
Delhi EV Policy 2.0 offers subsidies of up to Rs 50,000 on electric two- and three-wheelers
A groundbreaking EV policy is set to roll out in Delhi, promising generous incentives of up to Rs 50,000 for electric two and three-wheelers and Rs 100,000 for dismantling old cars. With a robust budget allocation of Rs 15,000 crore, the goal is to achieve 95% electric vehicle registration by 2027, effectively phasing out petrol and CNG variants.
Bajaj Finance has strengthened its personal loan offering by providing customers with a repayment tenure of up to 108 months. The extended tenure gives eligible borrowers greater flexibility to plan their repayments while meeting a wide range of financial requirements. Customers can apply for a collateral-free loan ranging from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 55 lakh, with a personal loan interest rate starting from 10% per annum. Bajaj Finance Personal Loan Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is designed to support both planned and unexpected expenses. Whether customers need funds for home renovation, higher education, travel, wedding expenses or medical emergencies, the loan offers a simple application process, quick approval, and minimal documentation. Bajaj Finance Personal Loan now offers a repayment period of up to 108 months The latest enhancement allows eligible customers to choose a repayment tenure ranging from 12 months to 108 months. This wider repayment range gives borrowers more flexibility when selecting an EMI that fits their monthly budget. A longer tenure can help reduce monthly repayment obligations, making it easier to manage finances without compromising other financial commitments. Customers can choose a repayment period based on their borrowing needs and repayment capacity. Why does the extended repayment tenure matter? The extended tenure supports better financial planning, particularly for customers borrowing higher loan amounts. Instead of opting for a shorter repayment schedule with higher EMIs, eligible borrowers can spread repayments over a longer period. This flexibility may help customers: Manage monthly cash flow more effectively. Plan large expenses with greater confidence. Choose an EMI that aligns with their financial goals. Reduce repayment pressure through a longer tenure. The Bajaj Finance Personal Loan provides customers with options that can be tailored to different financial situations while maintaining a straightforward borrowing experience. Who can benefit from the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan? The Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is suitable for salaried and self-employed individuals who require funds for significant personal expenses. Customers may consider the loan for: Medical emergencies. Home renovation or repairs. Wedding expenses. Higher education. Travel and holidays. Other planned personal expenses. With loan amounts ranging from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 55 lakh, customers can select an amount that matches their financial requirements. What is the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan interest rate? personal loan interest rate for the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan starts from 10% per annum and can go up to 30% per annum, depending on factors such as customer profile, eligibility, credit assessment, and other applicable lending criteria. The loan is unsecured, which means customers are not required to provide collateral or pledge assets while applying. How does the application process work? The Bajaj Finance Personal Loan application process has been designed to be simple and convenient. Eligible customers can apply online by completing a few straightforward steps: Check loan eligibility: Customers can enter the required loan amount and select the preferred repayment tenure. They can then click "CHECK LOAN OFFER" to view available loan offers. Enter personal details: Customers need to provide their personal, financial, and employment details to receive a personalised loan offer. Review the loan offer: Customers can review the loan offer and adjust the loan amount or repayment tenure, if available, to suit their financial needs. Complete KYC verification: Customers are required to complete the KYC process and verify their bank account details to facilitate loan disbursal. Application review: Once the application is submitted, a Bajaj Finance representative will contact the customer to guide them through the next steps in the loan application process. Key features of the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan The Bajaj Finance Personal Loan includes several features that support different borrowing needs. Loan amount 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 financing. Minimal documentation. Quick approval process. Funds may be disbursed within 24 hours* for eligible applicants. These features provide customers with flexibility while helping them manage planned and unforeseen expenses through structured repayments. A customer-focused lending solution The Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is built around convenience, flexibility, and responsible lending. By offering flexible repayment options, competitive personal loan interest rate options, and a straightforward digital application process, Bajaj Finance continues to provide customers with solutions that support diverse financial requirements. Customers looking for a collateral-free loan with flexible repayment options can check their eligibility online and begin the application process in just a few simple steps. *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.
Vande Bharat routes under 1,500: From Goa to Kerala, these budget trips are worth every rupee
This is no surprise that Vande Bharat trains have changed the way Indians travel. These semi-high speed trains, since their inception, are offering travellers premium comfort without breaking their bank balance.
HDFC Life and the Tata Digital Group Enter Strategic Partnership
HDFC Life, one of India’s leading private insurers has joined hands with Tata Fintech, a subsidiary of Tata Digital, through a Corporate Agency partnership to offer HDFC Life’s products and services on Tata Neu, India's large-scale loyalty and financial services app. HDFC Life and the Tata Digital Group Enter Strategic Partnership The Company’s protection and investment solutions will be available on Tata Neu’s platform. This partnership will enable millions of existing and new customers of the app plan for their financial goals in a seamless manner. Speaking on the partnership, Ms. Vibha Padalkar, Managing Director & CEO, HDFC Life , said, “India is moving at a significant pace when it comes to accessing most products and services through a digital-first interface. Our partnership with the Tata Digital group further enables us reach these digital savvy customers through the Tata Neu app and plan for their protection and investment needs, in a seamless manner. Our brands are aligned to make India more secure and enable many more Indians live with pride.” Mr. Sajith Sivanandan, CEO and Managing Director, Tata Digital , said, “Our endeavour at Tata Neu is to simplify how customers fulfil their financial and lifestyle needs through a trusted and frictionless digital experience. Our collaboration with HDFC Life strengthens our range of life insurance solutions, helping our consumers seamlessly plan and protect their financial future with greater ease. We believe this partnership will encourage more customers to consider life insurance as an integral part of their financial plans, with the convenience and trust of being able to access it through Tata Neu, anytime and anywhere.” About HDFC Life Established in 2000, HDFC Life is a leading, listed, long-term life insurance solutions provider in India, offering a range of individual and group insurance solutions that meet various customer needs such as Protection, Pension, Savings, Investment, Annuity and Health. The Company has over 60 products (individual and group products) including optional riders in its portfolio, catering to a diverse range of customer needs. HDFC Life continues to benefit from its increased presence across the country, having a wide reach with branches and additional distribution touchpoints through several new tie-ups and partnerships. The count of distribution partnerships is over 500, comprising banks, NBFCs, MFIs, SFBs, brokers, new ecosystem partners amongst others. The Company has a strong base of financial consultants. LinkedIn . About Tata Digital Group Tata Digital Group, a subsidiary of Tata Sons, enhances everyday consumer experiences through platforms like Tata Neu, bigbasket, Croma, Tata Cliq and Tata 1mg. Tata Neu, is designed as a trusted digital companion, bringing together payments, financial services, and lifestyle experiences in a connected ecosystem anchored by a unified rewards program. Through Tata NeuCoins, customers are recognized and rewarded across their interactions with Tata brands, enabling them to unlock greater value from both everyday transactions and key life moments.
Czech-French author Milan Kundera's profound insight into fear, particularly from 'The Unbearable Lightness of Being,' redefines it not as a deterrent but as a signal of meaningful pursuit. He describes 'vertigo' as the tempting pull to quit, rather than the fear of failure. Kundera's message encourages embracing these moments of doubt as inherent to striving for higher goals, emphasizing courage as the choice to persevere.
Economic indicators point to resilient Indian economy despite global headwinds: MoSPI Secretary
India's economy is demonstrating remarkable resilience against global challenges, according to Saurabh Garg, Secretary of MoSPI. He highlighted that initial economic indicators suggest continued growth, with the government actively leveraging administrative data for informed policymaking. The ministry is focused on harmonizing data to enhance interoperability and accessibility, ensuring a robust data ecosystem for future decision-making and the nation's development goals.
J&K must create new exporters: CM Omar; terms action against mutton dealers in Punjab 'unjustified'
Srinagar, June 29: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday said Jammu and Kashmir must create a new generation of exporters, diversify its export basket and strengthen export infrastructure to achieve the ambitious goal of doubling exports by 2030. He also termed the action against Jammu and Kashmir's mutton dealers in Punjab as unjustified and said the issue has again been taken up with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Addressing the inaugural session of the J&K International Buyer-Seller Meet at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar, Omar said the Union Government's target of doubling exports by 2030 gives Jammu and Kashmir only a few years to significantly expand its export base. We have to support those who are already exporting, but at the same time we need to create exporters out of people who are not exporting today. Their markets are presently confined to Jammu and Kashmir or, at best, some parts of the country. Our effort is to make exporting easier for them, the Chief Minister said. He said the Buyer-Seller Meet provides an important platform by bringing together international buyers, exporters, manufacturers, artisans and self-help groups to explore new business opportunities and global markets. Recalling Jammu and Kashmir's rich trading legacy, Omar said the region historically exported its products without depending on formal export channels. Our buyers came to us in the form of tourists. They purchased our products and carried them back to different parts of the world. Many lifelong relationships between buyers and artisans were built that way. We rarely had to participate in organised buyer-seller meets or handicraft fairs because buyers automatically came to Kashmir, he said. However, he noted that prolonged disturbances and a decline in tourism forced artisans and traders to adopt an entirely different business model. The Chief Minister said nearly 98 per cent of Jammu and Kashmir's exports currently originate from just four districts, while the remaining districts contribute only two per cent, underscoring the need to broaden the export base across the Union Territory. The challenge before us is how to increase the number of exporters and expand exports to every region of Jammu and Kashmir, he said. Highlighting infrastructure gaps, Omar stressed the urgent need to establish a dry port in Jammu and Kashmir to simplify export procedures and ensure exports are officially recorded in the Union Territory. We urgently need a dry port. Today our goods are exported from here but are often stamped elsewhere, because of which exports get credited to another state. We are working to ensure all export-related procedures are completed within Jammu and Kashmir itself so that exporting becomes easier for our entrepreneurs and our exports are properly reflected in our own account, he said. Action Against Mutton Dealers 'Unjustified' Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the event, Omar also expressed concern over the action reportedly being taken against Jammu and Kashmir's mutton dealers in Punjab, describing it as unjustified. He said he has been in regular contact with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann over the issue and has written to him once again seeking its resolution. I have been in touch with the Punjab Chief Minister for months and have written to him again. Our mutton dealers are only using Punjab as a transit route. They are not purchasing livestock there. They should not be punished merely for passing through the state. The action against them is unjustified, Omar said. The Chief Minister warned that if the matter remains unresolved, it will be raised before the North Zone State Council, and he would seek the intervention of the Central Government to protect the interests of Jammu and Kashmir's traders. He reiterated that the government is committed to addressing issues affecting local businesses while simultaneously creating new opportunities for exporters, artisans and entrepreneurs to expand their presence in national and international markets. (with inputs from KNO)
Boost your retirement income with the right investment choice. Compare SCSS vs SBI Senior Citizen FD vs RBI Floating Rate Savings Bond on returns, interest rates, limits and tax rules to find the best option for your long-term financial goals. Consult a certified financial advisor before investing.
Indonesia's SDGs completion level higher than global average: Ministry
Indonesia's National Development Planning Ministry stated that the nation's Sustainable Development Goals ...
CreditAccess Grameen Raises INR 425 Crore via Private Issue of NCDs
CreditAccess Grameen Limited (NSE: CREDITACC, BSE: 541770, ‘CA Grameen’ or the ‘Company’), India’s leading rural focused inclusive financing platform, has successfully raised INR 425 crore in June 2026 through private placement of non-convertible debentures (NCDs). The issuance comprised of two separate transactions – i) INR 325 crore privately placed NCDs arranged by Nuvama Fixed Income Advisory and ii) INR 100 crore NCDs bilaterally placed with Bajaj Finance Limited. The NCDs are senior, secured, rated, listed, and redeemable in nature. The INR 325 crore NCDs arranged by Nuvama Fixed Income Advisory were subscribed by Sundaram Finance Limited (INR 100 crore), Nuvama Wealth Finance Limited (INR 100 crore), Julius Bäer Capital (India) Private Limited (INR 75 crore), Royal Sundaram General Insurance Company Limited (INR 25 crore) and Vivriti Fixed Income Fund (INR 25 crore). The issue launched with a base size of INR 200 crore witnessed an additional INR 125 crore raised via exercise of green-shoe option, underpinned by strong investor confidence in CA Grameen’s business model and performance track record. The NCDs were issued with a tenure of 2 years and a fixed rate coupon of 9.25% per annum, payable quarterly. The INR 100 crore NCDs bilaterally placed with Bajaj Finance Limited, were issued with a tenure of 2 years and a floating rate coupon of 9.15% per annum, payable monthly. Commenting on the transaction, Mr. Nilesh Dalvi, Chief Financial Officer, CreditAccess Grameen , said, “At CA Grameen, building a diversified and cost-efficient funding franchise has always been a strategic priority. Every transaction whether a syndicated ECB across global markets or a domestic NCD issuance reflects our conviction that a resilient NBFC should be supported by multiple, independent sources of funds. This private placement demonstrates the confidence domestic institutional investors have in our credit profile and complements the strong support we continue to receive from international lenders. We will continue to build on this momentum as we progress towards our 2028 funding architecture.” About CreditAccess Grameen Limited CreditAccess Grameen Limited is India’s leading rural focused inclusive financing platform headquartered in Bengaluru. The Company provides a curated lifecycle credit suite to low-middle income households spanning group loans, individual business loans, secured business loans, affordable housing loans, and two-wheeler financing. The Company operates across 451 districts in 16 states (Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh & West Bengal) and one union territory (Puducherry) through 2,236 branches. The Company’s Promoter is CreditAccess India B.V., a multinational company focused on inclusive financing, supported by leading global institutional investors.
7 benefits of having a high-interest savings account
Unlock better returns on your savings with high-interest accounts, offering more than just secure fund storage. These accounts provide easy access to your money, making them ideal for emergency funds and short-term goals. Benefit from convenient digital banking features and cultivate stronger saving habits. Discover how these accounts can boost your financial discipline and help your money grow efficiently.
From 101 kg To 76 kg: Fitness Coach Reveals 3 Easy Rules That Helped Him Lose 25 kg
In an Instagram post, he opened up about the simple lifestyle changes that helped him achieve his weight-loss goal while maintaining muscle and avoiding the cycle of restrictive dieting.
Apple iPhone 17 to get massive discount in Flipkart GOAT sale: Buy now or wait for iPhone 18?
Flipkart's GOAT Sale, starting July 4, offers substantial discounts on the iPhone 17 series, with savings up to Rs 22,000 on Pro models. This makes the current iPhones an attractive buy, especially for those upgrading. However, potential buyers seeking the absolute latest features and next-gen AI capabilities might consider waiting for the iPhone 18, which is expected to launch at a higher price point.
Rs 2 lakh monthly salary doesn't make you rich, warns Bengaluru CA. Here's why
A Rs 2 lakh monthly salary might seem like peak success, but financial expert Meenal Goel highlights how high earners can still be vulnerable. She explains that substantial fixed expenses can leave individuals dependent on every paycheck, with little buffer if income stops. The real goal, Goel emphasizes, is building assets and systems for financial independence, not just earning more.
Quote of the day by Johnny Depp reminds people that success does not create a new personality. It only brings out the values, habits, and character that already exist. The quote explains how wealth, achievement, and influence expose a person's real nature. It also encourages people to build honesty, kindness, and strong values before reaching their goals because those qualities become visible once success arrives.
Crime Branch Raids Illegal Petroleum Storage in Goa, Seizes Fuel Worth 1.5 Crore
Panaji, June 29: The Crime Branch of Goa Police conducted a raid on an illegally operated petroleum storage facility on Sunday, seizing fuel tankers and petroleum products valued at approximately 1.5 crore. This operation was carried out based on specific intelligence received by the authorities. The Crime Branch team searched the premises located in the ... Read more Crime Branch Raids Illegal Petroleum Storage in Goa, Seizes Fuel Worth 1.5 Crore
FIFA World Cup 2026 | Canada earns first knockout win on stoppage-time goal against South Africa
The Canadians dominated play, taking 12 of 18 shots and seven of the eight on goal
Harry Kane Surpasses Cristiano Ronaldo, Only Behind Lionel Messi In Elite List
England captain Harry Kane has scored 70 goals in the 2025-26 season, surpassing Portugal legend Ronaldo and placing him second only to legendary Lionel Messi on the list of most goals scored in a single season in the 21st century.
South Africa vs Canada, FIFA World Cup 2026 Match: Canada's Stephen Eustaquio scored a dramatic 92nd-minute winning goal to fire them to a 1-0 win over South Africa in their Round of 32 clash.
Kanishka bags boxing bronze for Goa
Panaji: Kanishka Nimboriya clinched a bronze medal for Goa in the girls 58kg category at the 5th Under-15 (Sub-Junior) National Boxing Championships 2026, held at Jalandhar, Punjab A trainee of the RCC SDM Boxing Coaching Centre, Kanishka produced an impressive run to the semifinals with two dominant victories. She began her campaign by defeating her []
His sixth goal in this World Cup helps Argentina beat Jordan 3-1 Argentina maintained their perfect World Cup group-stage record with a 3-1 victory over Jordan at Dallas Stadium on Saturday. Giovani Lo Celso opened the scoring with a superb free-kick before Lautaro Martnez doubled the advantage from the penalty spot just before halftime. Jordan []
IIT project faces stir at Farmagudi site too
People brave rain, hold protest at sacred location Ponda: Braving incessant rain, hundreds of people, including locals, devotees and activists, gathered at the sacred Katamgal Dada Devasthan in Farmagudi on Sunday expressing their opposition to the setting up of a permanent campus of IIT Goa around the site, which has already been given a green []
Assembly elections: Santhosh reviews BJPs preparedness
Panaji: BJP national general secretary (organisation) BL Santhosh on Sunday held a series of organisational review meetings in the city to assess the partys preparedness for the next Goa Assembly elections. Santhosh conducted closed-door, one-on-one meetings with state ministers and BJP legislators including cabinet ministers Digambar Kamat and Vishwajit Rane, and MLAs Nilesh Cabral and []
DRS outreach expands with demos in villages
Margao: The Goa Deposit Refund Scheme (DRS) expanded its statewide outreach with live demonstrations at several panchayats ahead of the schemes phased rollout. Demonstrations were held in Agonda, Poinguinim (Canacona), Tivrem-Orgao, Velguem (Bicholim), Corgao, Morjim, Arambol (Pernem), Azossim, Taleigao (Tiswadi), Assagao and Parra (Bardez). Participants were informed about the functioning of Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) []
Citizenship rules need clarity
With thousands of Goans having lost Indian citizenship after acquiring Portuguese passports, the MEAs clarification has now revived questions over surrender rules External Affairs Ministrys statement that an Indian Passport is not proof of citizenship has opened a can of worms, at a time when India is passing through a trust deficit time due to []
Lionel Messi became the first to score in seven consecutive FIFA World Cup matches as Argentina beat Jordan 3-1 in its Group J finale today. It means Messi has been scoring at least 1 goal in each of his last 7 World Cup matches he played. The Jordan goal was the 7th straight match in []
When Cricket Broke Hearts, Hockey Gave India A Reason To Smile
FIH Hockey Pro League: It was a Sunday that Indian sports fans would rather forgetuntil hockey stepped in to rescue the mood. While both the Indian mens and womens cricket teams suffered painful defeats on foreign soil, the mens hockey team ensured the weekend didnt end without a smile, producing a gritty performance to beat England in a dramatic shootout in the FIH Hockey Pro League. The heartbreak began at Lords, where Indias hopes of reaching the ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026 semifinals came crashing down. Despite posting one of their best batting efforts of the tournament with 170 on the board, Harmanpreet Kaurs side watched helplessly as Australia chased down the target with an over to spare. Brilliant half-centuries from Ellyse Perry and Ashleigh Gardner powered Australia to a six-wicket win, knocking India out of the competition. For India, it was another familiar talemoments of brilliance overshadowed by a crushing exit at the business end of an ICC tournament. The defeat left them third in Group 1 with six points, while Australia and South Africa advanced to the semifinals. If that disappointment wasnt enough, more misery awaited thousands of kilometres away in Ireland. The young Indian mens T20 side, fresh from lifting the T20 World Cup earlier this year, suffered a shock 0-2 series defeat after Ireland clinched a thrilling one-run victory in the second T20I at Stormont. It was Irelands first-ever bilateral T20I series win over India and ended the visitors remarkable streak of 16 consecutive T20I series victories dating back to 2023. Even more impressive was the manner in which the Irish pulled it off. Lorcan Tuckers men showed tremendous character, defending totals in both matches to script one of the greatest weekends in Irish cricket history. Just when Indian sports fans thought Sunday had nothing left to offer, hockey came to the rescue. The Indian mens hockey team held its nerve in London, defeating England 3-2 in a tense shootout after regulation time ended goalless. The victory not only provided a fitting end to Indias FIH Hockey Pro League 2025-26 campaign but also ensured that the tricolour had something to celebrate on an otherwise gloomy day. Just when Indian sports fans thought Sunday had nothing left to offer, hockey came to the rescue. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Not every Sunday belongs to cricket. This one, unquestionably, belonged to hockey. Article Source: IANS
Homegrown Health Goals in a Bowl
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A win over Croatia, a goalless draw with Ghana, and a win over Panama secured top spot in Group L. England now know exactly who stands in their way of reaching the Round of 16.
Avantika got married in a star-studded ceremony in Goa, with several members of the film fraternity in attendance, including K Bhagyaraj
Bengalurus double-decker metro corridors could shift commuters back to private vehicles: Study
The study finds that integrating elevated roadways with metro phase-3 corridors is projected to reduce metro ridership, increase traffic-related emissions, fuel consumption and project costs, while weakening the citys long-term sustainable mobility goals
Only behind Messi! Ronaldo equals WC record during Portugal's goalless dra
Cristiano Ronaldo equalled German legend Lothar Matthaus for the second-most FIFA World Cup appearances after playing his 25th match in Portugal's goalless draw against Colombia. The result sent both teams into the Round of 32, with Colombia topping Group K. Ronaldo also extended his unusual record of being caught offside 11 times across the last two World Cups.
Messi scripts history, breaks Brazil legend's record to become ...
The Argentina captain scored with a free-kick in the 80th minute at AT&T Stadium on Saturday (local time). It was his sixth World Cup goal from outside the box, taking him past Brazil great Rivelino, who had held the record with five.
Cristiano Ronaldo achieved a significant FIFA World Cup milestone, equaling Lothar Matthaus's 25 appearances, placing him second only to Lionel Messi. Despite Portugal's goalless draw against Colombia, both teams advanced to the Round of 32. Ronaldo also extended his unusual offside record. Colombia secured top spot in Group K, with Portugal finishing as runners-up after a tightly contested match.
Investment planning should align with current finances, risk tolerance, and future goals. The Public Provident Fund (PPF) offers a safe, low-risk option for long-term savings, providing tax benefits and guaranteed returns, making it an ideal choice for wealth building.
Mann Ki Baat: PM hails self-reliance goals achieved by country
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, June 28, highlighted several milestones achieved by the country to become self-reliant as he cited the maiden flight of the made-in-India C-295 aircraft that will boost aerospace manufacturing abilities. In his monthly radio broadcast Mann Ki Baat, Modi noted that in June itself, the country achieved a Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles to accelerate EV push with 4 new models, 10+ refreshes by FY31
In a bold move, Tata Motors is enhancing its electric vehicle roadmap, with the goal of achieving over 30% EV integration by FY31. The brand is shifting from targeting niche adopters to appealing to the wider audience, introducing four new EV models along with a dozen upgrades. Innovations in battery tech promise to extend range and accelerate charging times, improving mainstream appeal for electric vehicles.
Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi hails self-reliance goals achieved by country
In his monthly radio broadcast 'Mann Ki Baat', PM Modi noted that in June itself, the country achieved a major success in the aviation sector
An Iranian father who went viral for helping his blind son follow World Cup matches through a handmade cardboard tactics board has done it again. This time, he guided his son through Iran's goal in their final group match against Egypt. The boy's reaction when told Iran had scored has moved millions online.
Adulting 101: Why financial protection isn't just for parents
The article highlights why financial protection should begin early, not just after major life milestones. It explains how buying a term insurance plan in your 20s or 30s can secure lower premiums while strengthening long-term financial stability. The piece also explores how early planning safeguards future goals and loved ones. Published on National Insurance Awareness Day, it encourages young adults to make informed financial decisions and build a secure future.
Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatt's fitness trainer, Yasmin Karachiwala, has shared a quick and healthy three-ingredient dessert recipe for mango lovers. Made with ripe mangoes, shredded coconut and protein-rich Greek yoghurt, the guilt-free dessert is easy to prepare and offers a delicious way to enjoy the season while staying on track with your fitness goals. Read on to know how to make it.
South Korea, Japan reaffirm denuclearisation goal, closer defence ties
South Korea and Japan are strengthening security ties, reaffirming their commitment to denuclearizing the Korean peninsula. Defence ministers agreed to revive joint search-and-rescue drills and enhance cooperation with the US against North Korea's nuclear ambitions and its growing military links with Russia. This marks a significant step in bilateral relations, despite historical tensions and ongoing territorial disputes.
Watch: Lionel Messi's Free-Kick Stunner Leaves Jordan Goalkeeper Frozen, Opponents Stunned
Lionel Messi scored an unbelievable free-kick against Jordan as Argentina maintained their 100 percent run in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Messi creates history as Argentina beat Jordan 3-1 to complete perfect group stage
Argentina concluded their group stage with a perfect record, defeating Jordan 3-1. Giovani Lo Celso and Lautaro Martinez found the net before Lionel Messi, coming off the bench, added a historic free-kick goal. This victory secured Argentina's top spot in Group J, setting them up for a Round of 32 clash against Cape Verde.
James Rodrguez scripts history after breaking rare Colombia World Cup record that stood for 28 years
James Rodrguez became Colombias all-time World Cup appearance leader during the 2026 draw with Portugal, marking his 11th tournament game. The milestone came as Colombia topped Group K unbeaten, with James once again pulling the creative strings. Despite a VAR disallowed late goal, Colombias dominance ensured progress, adding another historic chapter to their captains enduring World Cup legacy.
Lionel Messi Unlocks Never-Seen-Before Feat At FIFA World Cup As Argentina Beat Jordan
Lionel Messi came off the bench to score his sixth goal of the tournament as Argentina warmed up for their World Cup knockout tie with Cape Verde by beating Jordan 3-1 on Saturday.
FIFA World Cup match: Seventh heaven for Lionel Messi as Argentina beat Jordan 3-1
Jordan vs Argentina: Second-string squad of Argentina secured a convincing 3-1 victory over Jordan, with goals from Lo Celso, Lautaro Martinez, and a record-breaking free-kick from Lionel Messi. Messi's strike marked his seventh consecutive World Cup match with a goal, a new milestone. Despite Jordan pulling one back, Argentina's dominance was evident, sending a clear message to future opponents.
Austria secured a dramatic 3-3 draw against Algeria with two stoppage-time goals, propelling both teams into the Round of 32. Marko Arnautovic and Marcel Sabitzer scored for Austria, while Riyad Mahrez netted twice for Algeria. Sasa Kalajdzic's late equalizer sealed Austria's second-place finish in Group J, setting up a clash with Spain. Algeria advanced as a best third-placed team to face Switzerland.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) Sarbananda Sonowal, in Panaji on June 27, inaugurated Goa's new Captain of Ports Terminal Building, a Rs 48.87-crore waterfront facility designed to strengthen maritime administration, improve vessel monitoring and navigation, and support the state's vision of sustainable maritime development.
Lionel Messi becomes first player to score in seven consecutive FIFA World Cup matches
FIFA World Cup Jordan vs Argentina: Lionel Messi has etched his name in World Cup history, becoming the first player to score in seven consecutive matches. His stunning free-kick against Jordan secured this remarkable feat, surpassing legends like Just Fontaine and Jairzinho. This scoring spree, which began in Qatar, continued through the 2026 finals, extending his record tally of World Cup goals to an impressive 19. Messi's consistent brilliance continues to captivate football fans worldwide.
Colombia topped Group K at the 2026 World Cup after a historic 0-0 draw with Portugal in Miami, their first ever goalless match in 23 World Cup games. Despite dominating chances and forcing Diogo Costa into multiple saves, they were held by Cristiano Ronaldos side. The result confirmed both teams progression, with Colombia finishing unbeaten group leaders.
Thomas Tuchel Delighted To Have Jude Bellingham In 'Sweet Spot' For England At World Cup
England coach Thomas Tuchel hailed Jude Bellingham after the Real Madrid star scored one goal and made another in Saturday's 2-0 World Cup win over Panama.
FIFA World Cup 2026: DR Congo seal place in World Cup knockouts with comeback win over Uzbekistan
Wissa scored a penalty and Mayele added a quick second for the Congolese, who turned the game around with two goals in 10 minutes, before Wissa netted again in stoppage time
How to Build a 1 Crore Fund with Just 10,000 Monthly Investment
New Delhi, June 28: For many, a 1 crore investment fund remains a significant financial goal. However, reaching this target doesnt always require a large upfront investment. By starting at the right time, consistently investing, and leveraging the power of compounding, even a small monthly SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) can grow into a substantial fund ... Read more How to Build a 1 Crore Fund with Just 10,000 Monthly Investment
Congo beats Uzbekistan 3-1, enters FIFA World Cup knokouts
Atlanta: Congo advanced to the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time by rallying to a 3-1 win against Uzbekistan on Saturday, June 27, night. The African nation was playing in soccers biggest tournament for only the second time in its history after a 52-year absence. Two second-half goals from Yoane Wissa 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 .
Television couple Akanksha Chamola and Gaurav Khanna are divorcing after nearly a decade of marriage, as confirmed by the actress on Lock Upp Season 2. The pair has been living separately for a year, emphasising a mutual decision driven by differing life goals rather than conflict. Read on!
Croatia beat Ghana 2-1 to reach World Cup knockouts
Philadelphia: Croatia earned a spot in the World Cup knockout round, getting goals from Nikola Vlaic and Luka Sucic to beat Ghana 2-1 on Saturday, June 27. Ghana had already clinched a spot in the round of 32 for the first time since 2010. Vlaic headed home Luka Modrics corner in the 83rd minute to 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 .
FIFA World Cup 2026 LIVE: Jordan vs Argentina at Dallas Stadium
The South Americans have secured top spot in the group and a place in the round of 32 after beating Algeria 3-0 and Austria 2-0, with Lionel Messi scoring all five of their goals
FIFA World Cup: Congo rallies to a 3-1 win against Uzbekistan to seal place in knockouts
The African nation was playing in soccer's biggest tournament for only the second time in its history after a 52-year absence. Two second-half goals from Yoane Wissa and one from Fiston Mayele sealed the win and saw Congo join Cape Verde as another surprise qualifier for the round of 32.
Why Lionel Messi Is Not Playing For Argentina In FIFA World Cup 2026 Clash Against Jordan
Lionel Messi is currently the leading scorer of the tournament, having netted five goals in just two matches.
Harry Kane Becomes England's All-Time World Cup Leading Goal-Scorer
Kane scored his 11th career World Cup goal in the 67th minute against Panama on Sunday, breaking a tie with Gary Lineker
Quote of the Day by Robert De Niro teaches that success belongs to those who overcome procrastination, seize opportunities, and begin working toward their goals without unnecessary delay. Whether in education, careers, relationships, or personal development, meaningful progress depends on decisions made today. Time will continue moving forward regardless of our choices. Therefore, the wisest course is to use each day purposefully, take the first step with courage, and build a future shaped not by intentions alone but by consistent action.
FIFA World Cup 2026 | England clinches Group L crown with clean sheet against Panama
Harry Kane scored Englands second goal and became the nations leading World Cup goal-scorer, surpassing Gary Lineker with his 11th tally
Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane Score As England Beat Panama 2-0 In Final Group Game
Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane scored second-half goals as England got the job done against Panama at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Will Cristiano Ronaldo be playing today against Colombia? Latest injury update on Portugal captain
Portugal face Colombia in a decisive Group K clash at the FIFA World Cup 2026, with Cristiano Ronaldo set to start as Roberto Martnezs side chase top spot. Colombia, led by James Rodrguez, have already qualified after two wins. Ronaldo arrives in form after a record-breaking goal, while Colombia aim to finish unbeaten and secure first place.
The Paradox of Sheikh Abdullah
A friend forwarded me a post on X by Ahmad Ali Fayyaz, a journalist, about the ambiguous attitude of Kashmiris towards Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah. Without taking sides, Fayyaz juxtaposes the emotional sendoff Kashmiris gave him on his passing in 1982 with the vilification he has been subjected to subsequently. He then poses the charge of treachery laid against Sheikh Abdullah in recent times, without expressing an opinion, but contrasting the charge with the reality of the grief at his passing. Traitor, or gaddaris a term I have often heard Kashmiris use with reference to the Sheikh. Ahmad Ali Fayyaz did well to highlight the issue, because the ambiguity lies in the Kashmiri attitude, not in the Sheikh, as I shall try to explain below. For a proper understanding of the Sheikhs role we have to go back to the 1930s and the birth of the Muslim Conference, when Pakistan was not even a concept and Kashmir merely a component of a Princely State. Under the Dogra rulers Kashmiri Muslims were a discriminated lot in terms of employment. In 1925 Kashmiri Pandits had conducted a campaign to protect their share of jobs against Punjabi (mainly Hindus) officials brought in from by the Ruler for their administrative skills. Sheikh Abdullah himself failed to obtain the job of a college lecturer and had to become a school teacher instead. The Muslim Conference agitated for the rights of Muslims for jobs in the administration, political representation, and the rights of the cultivator. In these goals, it is fair to say, Sheikh Abdullah with his modern outlook and radical economic and social agenda had all Kashmirs Muslims behind him. His skirmishes with the Mirwaiz after 1934 resulted decisively in a victory for the Sheikh. After the National Conference was formed in 1938 hiving off the Muslim Conference Sheikh Abdullah continued to reign in Kashmiri hearts. His agenda, which was expanded in 1946 with the Quit Kashmir movement to expulsion of the Dogra dynasty, remained faithful to the original programme. It had nothing to do with the Lahore Resolution of 23rd March 1940 which led to the creation of Pakistan. Now, his followers and Kashmiris in general, knew he was opposed to the Muslim League and the formation of Pakistan and he was not the only Muslim politician of note to do so. Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan and Maulana Azad are two other notable names; but religious organizations like the Deoband school and MaulanaMaudoodi and his Jamaat e Islami were also resolutely against the partitioning of India into Hindu and Muslim States. And lest we forget, a sizeable chunk of the Muslim vote went against the Muslim League, even in Punjab where the Unionist Party succeeded in winning 10 seats or so in the communally charged election of 1946 where the Punjab BarelviPirs ran riot with religious threats against those opposing Pakistan. The charge of treason cannot be brought against Sheikh Abdullah for the pre-independence phase of his political career. Quite the contrary- He is that rare political leader who delivered on every one of the items of his party programme. After 1947, as Prime Minister he ensured that Kashmiri Muslims obtained political representation in proportion to the population. He progressively increased the share of jobs of Muslims in the administration till it was nearly in proportion to the Kashmirs Muslim population, and his land to the tiller programme was the first and only effective land reform programme in the entire country. He also delivered on his Quit Kashmir programme when the Ruler Hari Singh abdicated and shifted abode to Bombay, never to return. No treason or treachery thus far. After 1947 Sheikh Abdullahs nationalist credentials are questioned, not just by Hindutva politicians but Congress as well, which is the party that jailed him in 1953. Where exactly did he stand vis a vis India in the years before his arrest. So far as we can tell from the written record he began to have doubts about the association with India from the very beginning, and was exploring ideas of independence right from the day he became Prime Minister in 1948 March. He is said to have proposed the idea of an independent J&K guaranteed by both India and Pakistan to American representatives at the United Nations in 1948. Later discussion with the American ambassador to Delhi, Loy Henderson, and the defeated candidate for the American Presidency Adlai Stevenson hint at the same tendency. He also raised the subject within his own National Conference party in May of 1953, but without getting any support. Independence was not a mandate from the people of Kashmiri, nor was it ever part of the National Conference programme. The idea, if it ever existed full blown, was only in Sheikh Abdullahs own mind - hesitatingly articulated, without any great expectation of success. The idea was fantastic, and had led Maharaja Hari Singh to his downfall, as it did to the Nizam of Hyderabad. He cannot be accused of treachery in this context. Finally, there are those who would accuse Sheikh Abdullah of being a traitor to the cause of Pakistan. Such an accusation would be absurd, ignorant and ridiculous. One cannot be traitorous to a concept one opposes whole heartedly. Pakistan, was then, as it is now, an absurd proposition. It was never popular in Punjab as the results of the elections of 1937 show. It took off in Punjab only because of the fear of the Muslim feudal classes that under Congress they would lose their estates. It was precisely the progressive ideas such as land to the tiller that attracted Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan and Sheikh Abdullah to associate with Congress. The poet Iqbal first articulated the concept of a Muslim political grouping in Northwest India in the 1930 session of the Muslim League in Allahabad. This group did not include J&K, and was to be part of India not a separate country. The two-nation theory whose inchoate form was first articulated by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, had later supporters in LalaLajpat and Savarkar. It was another fantasy which succeeded for a while only because the British were compelled to reward Jinnah and the Muslim League for their support in the second world war when Congress was impeding British efforts. The idea of Pakistan flawed in conception, and bloody in execution, is yet to establish its credibility or necessity. In fact, one can go as far as to say that its creation created the very conditions it was predicated upon. Without Pakistan Muslims in the minority Muslims provinces would not have faced the situation they do in India today. How then do we account for the present-day Kashmiri animosity to Sheikh Abdullah and the role he played. Knowledge comes but wisdom lingers said Tennyson. Knowledge can be accumulated relatively quickly these days but digesting that knowledge and forming reasoned judgements from it can take time, leading to ambiguous opinions Ambiguity, is of course, a human attribute we all suffer from being undecided is a natural state. We dont always know our own minds. We have favouritecolours,favourite foods and favoured people within our intimate circles, but these are direct sensorial experiences, not thought out likes and dislikes. Outside the sensory experience, especially in matters of religion or politics, the positions we take are based more often on received knowledge which is often partial and slanted. Our attitudes may reflect our emotions more than they do our knowledge. And where our knowledge is inadequate our opinions become flawed. Sheikh Abdullah is considered a traitor by some because he eventually signed an accord with Indira Gandhi in 1975. That accord was greeted by a complete bandh in Srinagar the day he took the oath of office in Jammu. The next day, as he entered he city he and his cabinet were given the most rapturous welcome Srinagar ever saw. In Bhadarwah, where I was a Sub Divisional Magistrate then, a young Jamaati leader had stayed up all night plastering the town with posters proclaiming Do Gaddar, Sheikh Abdullah aur Sheikh Mujeeb. Next morning as head of the Carpenters Union he sent Sheikh Abdullah a telegram congratulating the newly sworn in Chief Minister. The literary critic and poet William Empson wrote a book called Seven Types of Ambiguity. The seventh type is the ambiguity of contradictory ideas, signifying a split in the authors mind, a fundamental ambiguity that is unresolvable, where meaning can come only through context. Perhaps the Kashmiri relationship with Sheikh Abdullah falls in this category. A love relationship that turned to hate years after the object of the love had ceased to exist suggests an ongoing dynamic in the minds of the living, not a fault in the deceased. B R Singh is a retired IAS officer who served in the J&K cadre.
Cong seeks unconditional return of former members, rejects defectors
NT Reporter Panaji The Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) on Saturday appealed to former Congress members to rejoin the party unconditionally to strengthen the organisation ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections. While the party said it would welcome current and former MLAs wishing to join, it made it clear that there would be no entry []
Ugtem Molob poets meet celebrates monsoon, nature & Goas heritage
NT Reporter Panaji The monthly poets meet of Ugtem Molob was held recently in a warm literary atmosphere, bringing together poets, writers and lovers of Konkani literature. The programme featured poetry recitations centred on the beauty of the monsoon, nature, environmental conservation and the growing concerns over the destruction of Goas natural and cultural heritage. []
Lobo backs crackdown on drunken driving, seeks stricter enforcement
NT Reporter Calangute Calangute MLA Michael Lobo on Saturday welcomed the state governments decision to tighten enforcement against drunken driving, saying Goa is sending a strong message that it will not tolerate drinking and driving. Addressing a press conference along with Sudip Tamhankar and representatives of rent-a-car associations, Lobo said people caught driving under the []
Dalit groups demand reserved assembly seat in Kushavati district
NT Reporter Curchorem The Sanguem-Quepem Dalit Sanghatana (SQDS) and Dalit Voice of Goa intensified their demand for political representation on Friday, urging the state government to reserve an Assembly constituencyfor the Scheduled Caste (SC) community in the Kushavati district. Members of the two organisations staged a dharna at Quepem and latersubmitted memorandums outlining their demands []
IGCAR Kalpakkam Hydrogen Plant: India has unveiled the world's first nuclear-powered hydrogen production facility at Kalpakkam, utilizing heat from the Fast Breeder Test Reactor. Developed by BARC and IGCAR, this technology demonstration plant showcases nuclear energy's potential beyond electricity, offering a clean, fossil-fuel-free hydrogen source. This initiative marks a significant step in India's clean energy transition and strengthens its energy security goals.
Open war?: The conflict between the Taliban and Pakistan
Since the creation of a Pakistani State after the dissolution of the British Empire, the relationships between Pakistan, India and Afghanistan have been volatile TIMOTHY FOXLY (MBE) Emboldened by their August 2021 return to power, the Afghan Talibans relationship with the Pakistani government has been redefined. Pakistan expected cooperation, but a major cause of friction has been the increasing use of Afghan territory by the Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP - the Pakistani Taliban). The TTP, resolved to bring down the Pakistani government, have ramped up attacks against government and military targets, helped by safe havens in Afghanistan. Amidst rising tension, border clashes and low-level friction, has given way to Pakistani air strikes into Afghan population centres, including a major mass casualty event in Kabul in March 2026, attributed to a Pakistan air strike. Neither Afghanistan nor Pakistan can afford the economic and political turbulence, but a sustainable solution to the conflict looks distant. On 16 March 2026, a missile landed on a former American military base in eastern Kabul (formerly Camp Phoenix). The buildings had been re-purposed by the Taliban regime as a rehabilitation centre for Afghan drug addicts. It is beyond a reasonable doubt that a Pakistani military aircraft was responsible. The explosion is believed to have caused hundreds of casualties, dead and wounded. Pakistan claimed it was a precision strike against TTP military facilities. After several years of tension, friction, border skirmishes and escalating violence, a major conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan broke out in February 2026. Pakistani Defence Minister, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, described it as a state of open war. Though this might be premature, the conflict has included air, rocket and artillery strikes conducted by the Pakistani military. Pakistan had long wished for a Taliban government in Afghanistan and had navigated a difficult and dangerous political path over the preceding twenty years to achieve that goal: pretending to assist the US-led military coalition and the democratically elected fledgling Afghan Republic while covertly working to support the Taliban, many of whom were benefiting from a safe haven in the western border areas of Pakistan, adjacent to neighbouring Afghanistan. Pakistans support for the Taliban during this time is routinely described as a Double Game. Shortly after the Taliban took power in August 2021, the chief of Pakistans intelligence agency Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) Lieutenant General Faiz Hameed was quick to visit the Taliban leadership and present his congratulations. Even then, there were concerns that the new phase of the relationship, with the newly installed Taliban regime now no longer so dependent upon Pakistani largesse, might not go as well as Pakistan might hope; Pakistan has certain influence on Taliban but they (Taliban) have many complaints from us, Rustam Shah Mohmand, Afghan affairs expert who had served as Pakistan's envoy to Kabul, told Arab News. Too much interference in their government formation could backfire. This article is not intended to be a history lesson of the longer relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan, but it is important to sketch in a few key and recurring - themes. Since the creation of a Pakistani State after the dissolution of the British Empire, the relationships between Pakistan, India and Afghanistan have been volatile. Pakistans engagement with Afghanistan should generally be seen in the context of Pakistans confrontations with India and Pakistans fear that Afghanistan might become a client State of India, thereby strategically surrounding Pakistan. Since the mid-nineties, Pakistan has invested much time and money seeking to ensure that the Taliban become a client of Pakistan and dominate Afghanistan in a manner favourable to Pakistan. Pakistani military intelligence played an important even decisive role in bringing about the rise of the Taliban by providing training, weapons, logistical support and a safe haven in western Pakistan from where they could retrain, regroup and recruit. The boundary between eastern Afghanistan and western Pakistan the Durand Line was a British imperial construct, designed to protect British-controlled India against Russian advances across Central Asia. It sliced through a complex, millennia-long network of Pashtun tribes for whom the Durand Line meant nothing. While technically the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan, it is not respected by Pashtuns, who continue to use ancient paths and smuggling routes. It is relatively straightforward for those wishing to avoid government attention, which in the late-20th and early 21st centuries increasingly included criminal gangs, drug traffickers and terrorists, to slip over the mountains and through the lesser-known forests and valleys in both directions. The decades of conflict in Afghanistan the Soviet occupation of 1979-1989, the civil war in the 1990s, the rise of the Taliban in the late nineties and the international military intervention from late 2001 that led to twenty years of Taliban guerrilla warfare exacerbated the economic and security problems of this border region. Starting in the early 1980s, millions of Afghan refugees took up semi-permanent and permanent residence in refugee camps and cities in western Pakistan, offering fruitful recruiting grounds for other terrorist groups, including Pakistani-backed terrorist groups focused on India, including Jammu & Kashmir. From 2007, a Pakistani Taliban began to emerge (Tehrik e-Taliban Pakistan TTP), declaring allegiance to the Afghan Talibans Supreme Leader. In 2011, the United Nations declared that the TTP was associated with Al Qaeda. The group has continued to launch attacks across Pakistan, including suicide bombings. The TTP have been inspired by the Afghan Talibans military success in Afghanistan and have similar goals for Pakistan the violent removal of the government and the establishment of their own vision of an Islamic State. When the Taliban took power, it became convenient even logical - for the TTP to use Afghanistan as a base for its operations in Pakistan. The Taliban deny that they are allowing the TTP to operate from Afghanistan. Here are the two painful ironies for Pakistan; Pakistan supported the Afghan Taliban which, in turn supported the Pakistani Taliban who are attacking Pakistan. Furthermore, Pakistan enabled the 2001 2021 Taliban insurgency in Afghanistan by allowing them a safe haven (and other forms of support) in western Pakistan. Now the TTP may be receiving safe haven in Afghanistan in order to conduct operations into Pakistan. So, the post-August 2021 Pakistan-Afghanistan honeymoon period wore off. Pakistans concern about a TTP presence in Afghanistan and increasing TTP attacks in Pakistan began to grow. Diplomatic protests began to give way to threats of military action. There were some early disputes and skirmishes about the locations of border posts and the activities of the military personnel of both sides. In December 2021, Pakistan complained that the Taliban had prevented its soldiers from setting up a security fence opposite Nangarhar province. In February 2022, Pakistan claimed that five of its soldiers had been killed by militants in a cross-border firefight. In 2023, skirmishes occurred several times at border crossing points. In March and September 2024, the Pakistani Air Force launched strikes at targets in the south-eastern Afghan provinces of Paktika and Khost. A regular feature of the Afghan-Pakistan conflict is the lack of clarity over casualties: Pakistan claimed to have struck militants, while the Taliban claimed dozens of women and children had been killed. Many of the claims and military actions have been fuelled by the dialogue of revenge and the need to demonstrate robust actions in response to previous attacks. The situation deteriorated further in 2025, with the TTP increasing its attacks in Pakistan. On 9 October, a TTP attack killed eleven Pakistani troops including a Lieutenant Colonel - near the Afghan border. Later that day, explosions were heard in Kabul. Although many judged that this was a Pakistani airstrike, the cause was very unclear. The Economist reported that air strikes in Kabul may have taken place on two separate days in mid-October. But, even if the reports were unconfirmed, it raised serious concerns that the Pakistani military was probably open to targeting Kabul and thereby significantly escalating the tensions - in retaliation for TTP actions in Pakistan. Concerns that were, only months later, to be realised. The security situation took an even more worrying nose-dive in early 2026. On 26 February, Pakistan launched more extensive military operations in Afghanistan, declaring Operation Righteous Fury as a statement of Open War against the Taliban. Air strikes hit Kabul and Kandahar. Afghan border positions and military facilities were hit. The Taliban, for their part, attacked Pakistani border outposts, possibly including the use of drone strikes. The United Nations said 370 Afghans had been killed in the first three months of 2026. On 16 March 2026, an airstrike hit eastern Kabul, causing a major mass casualty event in which a Pakistani missile hit the Omid Drug Rehabilitation Hospital, a rehabilitation centre for drug addicts. In the bleak and very violent story of Afghanistans last forty years, it is even possible that the attack on the rehab centre may turn out be the deadliest attack in recent history. A United Nations report gives a figure of 269 believed dead, although the figure may be higher (the Taliban say 411 killed). Patient documents were destroyed in the attack, many individuals are still missing, some casualties were unidentifiable, and other casualties may have been taken home or to the hospital by friends and family without their information being recorded. It is difficult to see a significant improvement in Afghanistan-Pakistan relations in the short to medium term. Both sides favour tough rhetoric that denies, denounces and deflects. Attacks frequently generate more revenge attacks. However, the tensions between the two countries are not purely about the TTP. The location and recognition of the border formerly known as the Durand Line remains in dispute. Patrolling and maintaining border posts in a geographically challenging area where the border is not agreed will continue to generate friction and clashes. The abrupt, aggressive forced deportation of millions of Afghans from Pakistan back to Afghanistan is also a major cause of dispute and regularly threatens to overwhelm the Talibans, themselves dependent upon aid agencies, ability to absorb large numbers. Deportations have increased the Afghan population by around ten percent over the last three years, at a time when humanitarian conditions in Afghanistan are extremely poor. Peace talks brokered by China and others may bring a lessening in the violence, and neither side benefits from the major economic disruption caused by the closure of key trade routes. The Taliban will continue to deny that they are supporting the TTP by allowing them to operate from Afghanistan, and Pakistan will continue to point to militant groups attacking into Pakistan. Recent reporting suggests the TTP have been told to leave Kabul, presumably more to make their presence less overt rather than a wider move to clear out the TTP. The Pakistan government almost certainly privately recognise that they were responsible for the strike on the rehab centre. This might make them more wary of future use of airpower near large population centres. It is perhaps premature to describe the violence as an all-out war, but skirmishes in the border areas - provinces such as Kunar, Nangarhar, Paktiya and Khost) - likely including artillery, rockets and airstrikes will very likely continue, and civilian casualties are unfortunately certain. (The Author is a Research Fellow at the European Foundation for South Asian Studies (EFSAS) and can be reached at info@efsas.org . He has previously been affiliated with the UK Ministry of Defence and the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).
Iran coach: US treatment at World Cup 'really terrible'
Iran's World Cup journey ended with a controversial 1-1 draw against Egypt, a result that left players and coach Amir Ghalenoei feeling very unfairly treated. A late disallowed goal, coupled with logistical challenges and perceived poor hospitality from the host nation, marred their experience. Despite these hurdles, the team expressed pride in their performance and the support of Iranians worldwide.
U23 Col CK Nayudu Trophy: In October 2025, Aman Rao was feeling stuck. A string of failures in the U23 Col CK Nayudu Trophy came after a promising start, and the young right-handed opener found himself searching for answers beyond his own dressing room. Cut to the present, and those times of struggle in October 2025 look as if they happened a long while back. Rao sits atop the Orange Cap standings in the Telangana T20 League (TGT20) with 192 runs in three innings, including striking the tournament's first century in only 32 balls, en route to smashing 142 off 48 deliveries for Warangal Warriors. It is that kind of innings that had the audience at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium feeling enthralled. That 142, remarkably, came in a losing cause, with Warangal Warriors going down in a thriller despite posting 258, as Tilak Varmas unbeaten 136 took Medak Falcons over the line. Rao barely had time to dwell on that astonishing innings coming off his willow before turning his attention to the Warriors' next match happening on Sunday. While I was playing, it was just like a flow state. I don't know what was happening. So, I was just reacting to the ball and playing it. Then, after it was done, I took some time to process what I had done that day, and then I had to play a match the day after. So, I had to leave that behind, also at the same time. So, I mean, it was a good feeling, but we lost, so not so great, he said in an exclusive conversation with IANS on Saturday. As Aman explained, his approach at the crease is built around clarity rather than recklessness. He looks to target deliveries in his strong zones and back himself to clear the ropes, a method that has fuelled his run of boundary-heavy scores this season, including a knock of 46 where every run came off boundaries only. But theres an innate sense of honesty when Rao speaks about where that intent occasionally overstepped its mark. He recalls straying into playing deliveries that were not really there to be hit, a lapse he intends to correct by sticking strictly to the balls within his zone going forward. Despite leading the Orange Cap race, Rao insisted the individual landmark is secondary to the team's ambitions. Yes, the Orange Cap is a good feeling, but I feel that if we win the tournament, it will be a cherry on top. So, I just don't think about it much, like I am on top of the Orange Cap or something. I just try to do what's best on that day, and hopefully, the results will come by, and the Orange Cap is a part of the process. Like, if we win, if I score, things will keep coming. So, that's not something I think about that much. I just think about how to perform on that day rather than try to sit on top of the leaderboard of the Orange Cap. It is a philosophy, he says, that keeps him grounded through a campaign that has otherwise thrust him into the spotlight. Long before TGT20, Rao had already announced himself on the bigger stage with an unbeaten 200 off 154 balls in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, against a Bengal attack featuring Mohammed Shami, Akash Deep, and Mukesh Kumar. Honestly, I didn't know I was close to 200. I was just playing and didn't know the score till the last ball. I think they shouted from outside that I needed six runs. Then I was like, I am just hitting till then and might as well hit one more. That was in my mind, and I wasnt thinking 200 - I was thinking last ball, have to capitalise and hit a six. So, that was going on through my mind. I would say I got a bit lucky in the last over, when CV Milinds catch got dropped, and I got to go on strike for those 14 runs. If that catch had been taken, maybe that 200 wouldn't have happened. So, that's something I think about to this day. Like, what if that catch was taken, and then maybe I wouldn't have hit 200. That's what it's like - some things just happen. That was sort of a day, it just happened, and I would say it took me some time to process that I hit that 200 because when I went into the game, I wasn't thinking I'm going to score a 200. I was just thinking I was going to play 50 overs and see what happens. I think that's like the first time I ever played all 50 overs. So, the main ultimate goal that day was to play 50 overs, and I achieved that goal, and the 200 was a by-product, I would say. If that double hundred built his reputation, it was a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy takedown of Shardul Thakur - three fours and two sixes in a single over - that went viral and directly led to Raos entry into the IPL 2026 season for Rajasthan Royals. I feel for me, at least personally, that knock was a turning point in my career to get into IPL, and then after getting into IPL, the double hundred happened, and then this TGT20. So, that thing I keep remembering almost every day - like because of that one over, I think I got selected, and then now I'm here and very grateful for that. In the TGT20 fixture between Warriors and Falcons, Rao admits to being stunned watching India T20I vice-captain Tilak Varma single-handedly complete a chase of 260. Such was its effect that a shell-shocked Rao could only say well played, incredible knock to Varma. Maybe that's the reason he's playing for India. He finishes games like this - even in the Asia Cup final - that knock also against Pakistan in the final, he's the only one who took on the whole chase that time. That's what I would say is the difference between an Indian player and a domestic player, and an upcoming player. Like I had the opportunity to do that yesterday, and I should have done it, and I couldn't. So, that's a learning for me - that I have to become better and try to chase scores like that and take that pressure which Tilak felt on that 260 day. I don't think he took any risk. He was just hitting the balls that were there, and what I felt about myself yesterday was that I was trying to hit every ball. Maybe I could have slowed it down a bit and maybe picked my balls, and then maybe I would have won the game yesterday because it was very chaseable, I felt. So, that's a big learning, and I have a long career ahead, hopefully, and I will try to do those things in the future. Ironically, it was Varmas guidance during Raos struggles in October 2025, when the former was in Australia for the T20I series, that helped him overcome the lean patch. I was just struggling a lot. So, I just wanted another perspective because I had my coach, obviously, but still I wanted another perspective, like how people get through that part where they're struggling and what they do. So, I just had a chat with him, and he told me to just stick to the basics, don't try too much. Maybe you're putting too much pressure on yourself and then trying too much and not enjoying yourself. So, it's like maybe enjoy yourself more and then try to stick to basics and don't think too much about the result. So, that's what he told me. During his time with Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2026, Rao spoke warmly of the reassurance he received from head coach & director of cricket Kumar Sangakkara, assistant coach Vikram Rathour, and performance coach Sid Lahiri, who repeatedly told him he wasn't in the squad merely to make up the numbers, even when game situations meant he didn't get a chance to play. That gave me a lot of confidence that I'm not here just because they had to fill up the squad, and I'm here for a reason. I learned a lot of things in batting, also. I improved a lot skill-wise, mindset-wise, and in how people approach in T20 opening or in the middle order. Being at RR also led Rao to an unexpected discovery - that he could bat in the middle order. In the practice game, I scored around 40 off 20 balls. So, that's when they told me that I can play in the middle order as well. That's when I realised maybe I have another side of me, and I started practicing for it in the nets as well. They were making me practice batting in the middle overs in the practice, and I tried and learned new shots. That's how I improved as a player as well, and that helped me. Those shots have helped me now in TG20 to make my batting better. I felt easier after playing over there in the practice sessions and against all those bowlers. For now, though, a middle-order role with Warangal Warriors remains conditional - both his head coach, Bavanaka Sandeep, and Rao agree it is something to explore only once the team has secured a top-four finish. In the leagues first-ever season, Rao was effusive in its praise. The amount of reach it has -the social media work and then crowd coming to the matches, it literally feels like an IPL match. It's a really good platform, and in the next one to two years, it's going to be the biggest league in India. That's what I feel, and hopefully, that happens, and it continues for as many years as it can. This is a great platform for youngsters like me, even the upcoming youngsters from the under-19, because all the IPL scouts will be watching. This is a great platform and not even IPL scouts, the whole of India will be watching, and I feel its huge and bigger than the other leagues, and I think in the first season only, we have a lot of audience and everything, and in the upcoming season, it's going to become bigger. So, it's a really good platform for all of us Hyderabad players. It's a really good platform, and in the next one to two years, it's going to be the biggest league in India. That's what I feel, and hopefully, that happens, and it continues for as many years as it can. This is a great platform for youngsters like me, even the upcoming youngsters from the under-19, because all the IPL scouts will be watching. Also Read: Live Cricket Score If the passport (arrival) had been delayed, I wouldn't be here right now. So, I don't know. I just have no words for it, like how it happened - it just happened. So, no words for it and exactly, leaves you speechless. For a player like Rao whos still figuring out which parts of his game to trust and which to rein in, growth has come fast, and it is, by his own admission, a great deal to process. Article Source: IANS
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