Goa

Get Microsoft Office 2024 for Windows without another yearly subscription

Macworld TL;DR: Get Microsoft Office 2024 Professional Plus for $49.97 through October 4 as a one-time purchase, with lifetime access on one Windows PC. If you mainly use one Windows PC and need Office for everyday work, you may not need another recurring software expense. Instead of paying for access year after year, this deal lets you install Microsoft Office 2024 Professional Plus with a single payment. Thats what makes Microsoft Office 2024 Professional Plus worth a look. Right now through October 4, you can grab a lifetime license for $49.97 (MSRP $249.99), giving you permanent access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint , Outlook, OneNote, and Access on one Windows PC. The important thing to know is that this version uses a device-linked license, not one tied to your Microsoft account. Thats the trade-off that helps keep the price lower. If youre buying Office for a computer you plan to keep for a while, that may be a perfectly reasonable compromise. Youll also avoid recurring Microsoft 365 payments while still getting the productivity apps most people use every day. Whether youre building spreadsheets, writing reports, creating presentations, or managing email, the core experience is designed for long-term stability. It also includes Dark Mode and is built to perform well on a wide range of hardware without requiring an ongoing subscription. If your goal is simple a full Office suite on one Windows PC with no recurring fees this is an easy way to get there. Get a lifetime license to Microsoft Office 2024 Professional Plus for a one-time $49.97 (MSRP $249.99). Microsoft Office 2024 Professional Plus for Windows: Lifetime License See Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.

Asian Games: Grateful for the errors made by judges, I got some rest, says Esha after silver

Digital Desk | Toyota, Sep 28 (IANS) Esha Singh said the unexpected interruptions during the womens 25m pistol final at the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya on Monday ultimately worked in her favour, with the Indian shooter admitting that the stoppages gave her time to recover from mounting fatigue and pressure on her way to a silver medal. The 21-year-old entered the final after qualifying eighth and endured a roller-coaster medal round that included multiple shoot-offs, technical interruptions and a prolonged battle with Chinas Xiao Jiaruixuan for gold. Esha eventually finished second after the final shoot-off, but said the experience itself was more significant than the medal. It was amazing and Ive never had an experience like this before. Definitely going into my bucket of amazing experiences. And Im grateful for every moment. And though it was nerve-wracking, it was amazing. The Indian acknowledged that she came close to elimination several times during the final. Having started strongly, Esha found herself repeatedly fighting to remain in contention before eventually securing the bronze-medal position and then advancing to the gold-medal shoot-off. As an athlete, Im very aware of that when youre playing. Of course, its a very distracting thought that you get. Like, Im going to go out any second. And I was leading in the beginning, but things were not working out the way I wanted it to. But I still kept my focus on. I still knew I could do it. I fought till the heart. I tried my best. My hand did end up getting a little tired because nobody who went up to the goal shot as much as I did. But still, I think Im going to work on it because I dont want this to happen again. Yeah, I think overall Im really happy with the way I played. Esha revealed that physical fatigue became a factor as the final progressed. She repeatedly shook and moved her shooting hand during the tense exchanges, attempting to ease the tightness that had developed without her initially noticing it. I think its because of the pressure. I think this time, in my mind, I dont know if it was a thought or if it was really happening. But my hand was genuinely getting very, very tight and very tired without me realising. Even just the first series. So, I just tried maybe relieving or just relaxing it a bit. So, thats what I was even telling before. I was kind of grateful for the errors and mistakes the judges were making because I got some rest. So, maybe you can call it Gods grace giving me some time off and just to think about it. It looks like a situation where the zone is breaking for an athlete. But in my case, it really helped me. The silver also offered Esha an opportunity to confront memories of her Olympic experience. She said the pressure she felt during qualification and the final reminded her of the difficulties she encountered previously, but added that she now felt better equipped to handle such moments. Yeah, the qualification I am not proud of. Nor the air. But I think this kind of pressure I did not have before. It was, I would say, on an Olympic level. And that is why I am saying I really like this whole experience of this match. Because I got to relive that moment. And I did things which I couldnt do back then. And I think now I genuinely do feel stronger. Because even in the qualification, in the rapid, I could at least come back in the last series. Which I could not do in the precision. And which is why I think for the finals as well, I was very confident and I knew I can do it. Elaborating on that comparison, Esha said the difficulty lay in losing control of her duelling during the Olympics a problem she encountered again in Aichi-Nagoya. I think I was trying to talk about my Olympics. Because this is kind of a very similar situation that happened. My duelling was just so out of control. I could not get my hands on things. And thats the kind of situation I faced here after a very long time. Otherwise it was going well. So its going well, you dont have anything to work on. So this time it happened. And thats when I was like, I really pulled it hard. And I think the last season made me realise that I am strong enough to handle this. Esha also spoke about the support coming from the stands, saying she could hear her father during the final and understood his frustration with the officials after the interruptions. I can always hear my dad. I think he was very pissed off with the judges. I get it. But of course, maybe Ill think about it a little later. But then I cant really express. Because that sport is not something where you can show aggression. You have to really calm it down. That is where its actually hard. Because in other sports, you get to at least maybe throw a ball harder or something. But here you cant do that. You have to stay as calm as possible. So yeah, I think Ill think about it a little later. But I think it has justified his reaction to it. Because those kind of errors shouldnt be made by judges. But maybe it was an electronic error. I dont know yet. But it's okay. Things happen.

Lionel Messi closing in on top spot for the most free-kick goals in football history

Messi is closing in on yet another all-time record. The post Lionel Messi closing in on top spot for the most free-kick goals in football history appeared first on Planet Football .

Dak Prescott Has Honest Reaction After Cowboys Loss To Ravens

A missed chance near the goal line, a late Ravens play and a long field goal left Dallas stunned. Dak Prescott did not hold back after the loss.

Portugal edge Norway 2-1 in UEFA Nations League; Goncalo Ramos scores winner

Defending champions Portugal defeated Norway 2-1 in Group A4 after a costly goalkeeping error allowed Goncalo Ramos to score the decisive goal in Oslo

Messis Goal Not Enough as Inter Miami Falls to Columbus Crew 2-1

Inter Miami loses to Columbus Crew 2-1 despite Messis stunning free-kick goal, maintaining a strong position in the MLS standings. Messis Goal Not Enough as Inter Miami Falls to Columbus Crew 2-1

Nations League: Greece stun Germany, Portugal beat Norway

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 28 (IANS) Dimitris Kourbelis' deflected strike secured a first-ever victory for Greece against 2024/25 UEFA Nations League semi-finalists Germany, while Goncalo Ramos scored the winner for Portugal in Oslo as the 2026/27 edition on Matchday 2. Greece's winning start to life in League A continued courtesy of a famous 1-0 victory against Jurgen Klopp's Germnay in Augsburg. The Ethniki who had never previously defeated Germany in ten attempts edged in front with just over 15 minutes remaining thanks to a deflected strike from substitute Dimitris Kourbelis following a sustained spell of pressure from the visitors. Germany's best opportunity of the contest came shortly after the half-hour, when the lively Karim Adeyemi tested Kostas Tzolakis with a curling effort. Meanwhile, Goncalo Ramos' expert lob kept Portugal perfect after two games with 2-1 victory in Oslo. Joao Felix completed a slick move by firing in a precise 17th-minute opener for the Selecao, who then needed goalkeeper Diogo Costa to deny Erling Haaland twice before the break. Haaland struck soon after the restart when the No1 parried a Martin Odegaard free-kick, but Goncalo Ramos intercepted Orjan Nyland's pass to swiftly reply from outside the area. Rafael Leao's deflected drive then hit the crossbar, with Goncalo Ramos sending the rebound wide. Elsewhere, Mikkel Damsgaard created both goals and hit a post as Denmark earned their first points with a 2-0 win at Parken, condemning Wales to consecutive defeats. The hosts enjoyed 70 per cent of first-half possession, going closest when Damsgaard shot against the woodwork from distance. Damsgaard's cross from the right was diverted in by opposition defender Ben Davies shortly after the restart, and the midfielder's delivery from the same area led to Gustav Isaksen hitting the second via the crossbar from inside the box. In another match, Mexx Meerdink marked his first Oranje start with a well-taken double to clinch 2-1 victory for the Netherlands against AZ Alkmaar in Belgrade. The AZ Alkmaar forward converted an emphatic penalty on the half-hour mark following a foul on Crysencio Summerville, before substitute Luka Jovi levelled from close range under a minute after coming off the bench at the interval. The visitors looked most likely to secure maximum points as the contest wore on, with Ruben van Bommel's effort smacking the post, and Meerdink sealed the win with a crisp finish into the bottom corner.

MLS: Messi scores but Inter Miami fall 1-2 to Columbus Crew

Digital Desk | Columbus, Sep 28 (IANS) Inter Miami CF fell 2-1 on the road against the Columbus Crew in the MLS regular season fixture. Captain Lionel Messi scored the teams goal with a spectacular free kick at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field here on Monday. Columbus opened the scoring in the 28th minute through a penalty conversion. Inter Miami equalised five minutes later, with Messi scoring a free kick from a tight angle from the right end of the pitch. The goal took his tally to 21 as he extended his lead in the race for the 2026 MLS Golden Boot. The second half presented a player debut for the visitors, as recently signed Brazilian winger Riquelme Fillipi came on in place of Facundo Mura in the 71st minute to make his Inter Miami debut. Columbus Crew reclaimed the lead late to secure the 2-1 victory with a goal in stoppage time. Overall, Inter Miami has recorded 12 wins, five losses, and 10 draws so far this MLS regular season for a total 46 points, and sit third in the Eastern Conference standings. Messi, the reigning MLS MVP Award and Golden Boot, leads both the team and the league in goals with 20. Additionally, Messi is also tied for the lead in assists this MLS regular season with 13 so far. Columbus Crew hosted Inter Miami after earning a 0-2 victory on the road against CF Montreal last weekend. Overall, the Ohio-based side has recorded eight wins, 14 losses, and five draws so far for a total 29 points this regular season and is 13th in the Eastern Conference table. Next, Inter Miami will return home for their next MLS regular season, as the team is set to host D.C. United at Nu Stadium on October 11.

GATE Registration 2027 Last Date Extended - Check New Deadlines at gate2027.iitm.ac.in

GATE 2027 registration is extended to 5 October 2026 without a late fee and 12 October with a late fee. Check dates, fees, GOAPS link, steps and correction details.

Terrible at tracking finances and budgeting? CA shares a simple money system to stop Rs 10,000-Rs 20,000 from quietly disappearing every month

CA Nitin Kaushik says you dont need to be naturally good at managing money if you have a simple system. He recommends tracking actual take-home income, dividing expenses into four categories, using 50/30/20 as a flexible starting point and assigning every rupee a purpose. He also advises setting specific financial goals, reviewing investments monthly and calculating net worth regularly to ensure money is moving towards your priorities.

How The Ravens Stole Victory From The Cowboys In Brazil With A Stunning Seven-Second Sequence

The Ravens stunned the Cowboys 34-31 in Brazil after Lamar Jackson found Zay Flowers with seven seconds left, setting up Tyler Loops 56-yard field goal after a crucial Dallas kickoff decision.

Finance minister, BOK chief stress coordination to address uncertainties

Digital Desk | Seoul, Sep 28 (IANS) South Korea's finance minister met with the central bank governor on Monday to discuss ways to strengthen coordination to address economic uncertainties, the finance ministry said. Finance Minister Lee Hyoung-il, who took office last week, held talks with Bank of Korea (BOK) Gov. Shin Hyun-song during his first visit to the central bank since taking office, according to the Ministry of Finance and Economy. We consider (the BOK) an important policy partner in discussions on economic stability and growth, said Lee, who wore a blue tie that's available as a souvenir at the central bank, reports Yonhap news agency. We hope to jointly explore and cooperate on a range of issues, including the internationalisation of the Korean won, digital finance, and ways to expand the economy's growth potential and ensure the benefits of growth are more widely shared, the finance minister added. The meeting lasted around 40 minutes. During the meeting, the two policymakers shared the view that South Korea's economic growth is gaining momentum, supported by strong export and investment indicators amid the semiconductor supercycle. Lee and Shin, however, noted persistent pressure on people's livelihoods amid heightened external uncertainties, including interest rate hikes in major economies and geopolitical risks. The BOK's recent monetary policy response is expected to contain demand-side inflationary pressures and bolster confidence in the South Korean economy, helping stabilise the exchange rate and ease cost pressures, thereby strengthening the country's economic fundamentals, Shin said. The BOK's efforts to maintain macroeconomic stability, together with the government's policy efforts to expand the economy's growth potential, will play a key role in strengthening the foundation for sustainable growth, Shin added. The two men said financial, foreign exchange and property markets are becoming increasingly interconnected, stressing the need for closer cooperation between their institutions to address economic risks preemptively. To this end, Lee called for greater communication between the finance ministry and the BOK to pursue their shared goals of price stability, economic growth and financial stability.

Trump hints at fresh Iran strikes before midterms

Donald Trump expressed confidence in a swift victory over Iran, suggesting military strikes before midterm elections are possible, with the primary goal of denying Tehran nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi declared readiness for a doomsday war if hostilities resume, while also expressing openness to diplomacy if assets are unfrozen and oil sales allowed.

We continue to show that we never give up: De la Fuente

Spain manager proud of teams resilience as world champions rally from a goal down to beat England 3-2 in Nations League

Portugal defeat Norway 2-1 in Nations League after goalkeeper error

The News Mill

Colonel, Commanding Officer 10 RR, inaugurates inter-district UT-level rifle shooting competition at Doda

Doda, Sep 27: The District Youth Services & Sports Department Doda on Sunday organised Inter-District UT-Level Boys & Girls (all age group) Rifle Shooting Competition (Open Sight) here at the Shooting Range, providing a prestigious platform to young shooters from different districts of Jammu & Kashmir to showcase precision, concentration, discipline and sporting talent. The UT-level competition was organised as per the Activity Calendar issued by the Directorate of Youth Services & Sports, J&K. The competition was conducted under the direction of Director General Youth Services & Sports J&K Anuradha Gupta and under the supervision of District Youth Services & Sports Officer (DYSSO) Ashok Kumar. The inaugural ceremony was graced by the Colonel, Commanding Officer 10 Rashtriya Rifles as the Chief Guest. He inaugurated the competition in the presence of DYSSO, participating shooters, coaches, managers, technical officials and officials of the Youth Services & Sports Department. Addressing the participants and students, the Chief Guest appreciated the efforts of the Youth Services & Sports Department in providing young athletes with opportunities to participate in competitive sports events at the UT level. He encouraged the shooters to remain focused, disciplined and dedicated towards their sporting goals, highlighting the importance of concentration, patience, precision and sportsmanship in rifle shooting. He further urged the youth to stay away from drugs, substance abuse and anti-social activities, stressing that participation in sports plays an important role in building discipline, character and physical fitness while guiding young people towards a positive and productive future. He also encouraged the participants to pursue sports with dedication, noting that sporting activities can provide meaningful opportunities for personal growth and career development. The competition witnessed enthusiastic participation of around 40 young shooters representing different districts of the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir. Participants competed in All Age Group Boys and Girls categories in Open Sight Rifle Shooting, demonstrating commendable levels of focus, control, accuracy and competitive spirit. The organising team of the District Youth Services & Sports department made comprehensive arrangements for the smooth and successful conduct of the competition, ensuring necessary facilities for participating athletes, coaches, managers and technical officials. The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by DYSSO Ashok Kumar, who expressed appreciation to the participating teams, officials and all stakeholders for their cooperation and support in the successful conduct of the UT-level competition.

Anthropic, OpenAI sound AI safety alarm, seek to shape how it's controlled

As tech titans warned an AI-weary world that their own advanced systems could endanger humanity, the question emerged: What do they have to gain? The answer may lie in the companies' efforts to score political goals ahead of the US midterm elections and the money top artificial intelligence labs and their investors stand to make in much-anticipated listings on a jittery stock market. The CEOs of Anthropic and OpenAI recently declared America's cutting-edge models are so powerful, they're dangerous, and need to be regulated and independently tested before being released. In a rare instance of unity, they have sketched alarming scenarios in essays, social media posts and speeches to the United Nations. Along the way, they are shaping the conversation around how their technology should be controlled. With their rhetoric, the companies appear to be seeking public favour and to set the terms for their own safety protocols in the unregulated market, experts, analysts and former government

Beyond Metrics: Aligning Strategy Through Purposeful OKRs

In the fast-paced world of modern business, strategic alignment is the difference between a company that merely survives and one that truly thrives. Many organizations struggle with strategy drift, where daily activities become disconnected from high-level corporate goals. This is where the Objectives and Key Results (OKR) framework becomes indispensable. Popularized by Intel and scaled []

SpaceX Starship targets first orbital flight as Musk pushes rocket towards Moon, Mars

SpaceX's Starship rocket is set to attempt its first orbital flight after years of development and testing. The launch will occur in Texas with goals including deploying 26 Starlink satellites into orbit. As the rocket journeys, it will orbit the Earth six times before landing in the Pacific Ocean. The launch is crucial for future missions to the Moon and Mars, despite potential risks.

Ireland, Israel players skip handshakes amid contentious Nations League clash

Ireland and Israel faced each other in a Nations League match in Hungary without pre-match handshakes. Irish players wore black armbands in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Several players, including reserve goalkeeper Gavin Bazuno, expressed opposition to the situation, leading to his boycott of the games. The game witnessed limited attendance, with tiny groups of Israeli fans and local protesters present.

Klopps Germany rocked by Greece as Kourbelis delivers a shock in Augsburg

Germany experienced its first loss under coach Jurgen Klopp as Greece secured a surprise 1-0 victory. Dimitris Kourbelis scored the only goal in the second half, condemning Germany to defeat. The German team dominated possession yet struggled to create significant scoring opportunities throughout the match. Meanwhile, Portugal won against Norway despite Cristiano Ronaldo being benched for the game.

Eye on India cocktail, Suntory eyes 10-15% stake in Allied Blenders & Distillers

Suntory Holdings, the renowned Japanese beverage company, is in discussions regarding a potential minority investment in Allied Blenders and Distillers. The goal of these talks is to form a strategic alliance that leverages the strengths of both entities within the whisky industry. By acquiring 10-15% of the promoters stake, Suntory aims to enhance its footprint in India's booming whisky market, amidst rising competition from other players.

NCB leads major drive, destroys over 61 acres of illegal cannabis in Himachals Kullu

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 28 (IANS) The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has carried out a significant operation against illegal cannabis cultivation in Himachal Pradesh, destroying more than 61 acres of illicit crops in remote, high-altitude areas of Kullu district so far. The ongoing drive is being conducted jointly with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Himachal Pradesh Police and the State Forest Department. Teams are operating in difficult mountainous terrain, with the exercise being geo-tagged and documented through photographs and videography to ensure transparency. Legal action to follow against those responsible for illegal cultivation, NCB said in a post on its X handle. To ensure complete transparency and accountability, every stage of the exercise is being geo-tagged and meticulously documented through photographs and videography. Officials confirmed that legal action will be initiated against those found responsible for the illegal cultivation. The operation forms a key part of the larger effort under the Vision Document on Narcotics Control (202629). The document outlines a clear roadmap towards achieving a Nasha Mukt Bharat by targeting drugs at their source. A central pillar of this strategy is the coordinated eradication of illicit cultivation through seamless collaboration between Central and State agencies. Cannabis cultivation in the high-altitude regions of Himachal Pradesh has long posed a challenge for enforcement agencies due to the rugged topography and limited accessibility. By deploying specialised teams from multiple forces, the current drive aims to break the supply chain at its origin and send a strong message against illegal growing practices. Authorities emphasised that sustained action of this nature is essential to curb the availability of narcotics and protect communities from the social and economic damage caused by the drug trade. The joint operation also reflects improved inter-agency coordination, with NCB providing the lead while leveraging the local knowledge and operational strength of the state police, ITBP and forest department personnel. As the drive continues, further areas under illegal cultivation are expected to be covered in the coming days. Officials reiterated their commitment to pursuing the cases to their logical conclusion through proper legal processes. The success of this operation is being viewed as an important step in the national campaign to eliminate illicit drug cultivation and move closer to the goal of a drug-free India.

From spice extracts to a $1-billion goal

A peek inside Viju Jacobs flavour-packed empire

Achievements Come Along, Milestones Never My Focus: Kohli On Crossing 15,000 ODI Runs

Greenfield International Stadium: Talismanic batter Virat Kohli on Sunday said milestones have never been his focus and that he is excited to unlock a new version of himself at this stage of his career, after becoming only the second batter after Sachin Tendulkar to complete 15,000 ODI runs. The 37-year-old, who got to the landmark faster than anyone in mens ODI, smashed an unbeaten 139 off 88 balls his 55th ODI ton - as India beat West Indies by eight wickets in the first ODI here at the Greenfield International Stadium to go 1-0 up in the three-match series. Well, my focus has never really been on these milestones, so to say. It's just understanding the situation along the course of just doing the job for the team, whatever. Achievements come along. Obviously, I feel very grateful and very blessed to be in this position for having played for so long. Just keeping my head down, working hard, and thanking God for everything that I've been blessed with and the opportunities that I've gotten in my life to be where I am. We have a very blessed life and a blessed journey because so many people want to be here, but we get to be the lucky ones. So, we better put our head down and just work hard every day of our lives, said Kohli in a chat with broadcasters at the conclusion of the game. Kohli, who now plays only ODIs for India, said the key to his recent consistency in the 50-over format lay in staying fit and mentally fresh. I think just the understanding of the game firstly, also at the stage that I'm at - just keeping myself physically very fit, because the game's more or less in the mind. I've never been a guy who practiced a lot, even when I was playing all three formats, as you know. So it's just for me about staying mentally fresh, staying in the present moment and just expressing myself really out there to play in a certain way, get used to this template more often. The former captain said he had set himself the task of batting at a higher tempo in ODIs. I've got a challenge at this stage of my career to kind of up the ante and play a gear or two higher, and that was exciting for me to work on. Again, it excites you when you have to unlock a new version at this stage of your career, which will eventually help any team that you play for, be it playing for India or in the IPL. It's really helped me a lot to play with a free mind, and I think that's what's working for me. But I think to follow a free mind, you need a fit body. So for me it works the other way around. I stay physically fit and then I'm able to visualize the game in the way that I want to play, which allows me the best chance to go out there and execute in the way that I did tonight. Asked about his state of mind, Kohli spoke of the gratitude he feels for his journey. I'm just very grateful and happy, to be honest. Like, it's the only thing we need to do is just look back once and, where we came from. That's something that we tend to forget when we are caught up with the hustle of the world and the positions we get into with so much attention and fame and so much love from the fans. It can be very easy to forget where you came from. But I think just looking back at the journey from when you started as a child just makes you feel grateful. I enjoy each and every minute that I'm out there playing for India, because I understand that, as I said, I could have been a possibility that I wouldn't be standing here. I wouldn't have played for India at all. That could have been my reality as well. But I'm getting to live all these amazing moments representing my country, playing in front of such big crowds and doing the job for the team. As a cricket player, this is all that I dreamt of, and I'm getting it. So I have nothing but gratitude in my heart, and, as I said, I just want to put my head down, keep working hard, put a smile on my face, and hopefully make other people smile too, he explained. Kohli also had a message for young players who look up to him. It's a fact which we don't want to face as athletes, that even if everything ends after this game, you have to play the way you want to play the game and you have to remind yourself that every time you go out to play. That unlocks that positivity, that taking a risk, that unlocks that mindset which helps you to win games for your team. That's the only advice I would give to the young guys: don't think a lot about all the other stuff outside of the field. Once you enter the ground, this is everything, and it should be everything for you guys and just put your body on the line. As I said, put your head down. If you have to run four doubles in an over when you're batting at 150, you have to do it. There are no excuses. So if they play like that, then you should be fine, he added. With the 2027 ODI World Cup a year away, Kohli said playing a single format had given him clarity about his goals. Also clarity - I mean, we're a year away from the World Cup. I know what my goal is, and it's pretty clear for me that whatever games we get, I just need to keep working on different aspects of the game, keep myself physically fit, challenge myself to be out there, run from boundary to boundary in the last 15 overs if I can, field in the inner ring, show intensity. If I keep ticking all those boxes, as I said, I've got some time left to play in this format as well, and yeah, I just want to enjoy every day. So when I get an opportunity, I feel happy rather than feeling anxiety or pressure to make the most of it. I just want to express myself and play my game. As I said, I promised myself I'm going to play positively because I can. So I'm going to continue to play like that, but not be reckless. There's a fine line which, as a professional, as an experienced player, I should have the ability to execute in this way without playing reckless shots and get the team through, he added. Kohli, who added 151 for the second wicket with skipper Shubman Gill (110), was full of praise for his captain. There's a reason why he's leading the team. He's got the right perspective, as I said, to look at the game in the way that making the team win from different situations. When you play with a guy like that, it's not very difficult to string in a partnership, because he knows what needs to be done, I know what needs to be done. I just want to express myself and play my game. As I said, I promised myself I'm going to play positively because I can. So I'm going to continue to play like that, but not be reckless. There's a fine line which, as a professional, as an experienced player, I should have the ability to execute in this way without playing reckless shots and get the team through, he added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories He's probably up there with the best players in the world and obviously a very talented guy. So not having to say much to him while batting. In the field, when he needs my help, I'm always available, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

Goat meat linked to most anthrax cases in Meherpur

262 of 412 patients in Gangni contracted the disease after coming into contact with goat meat, health officials say

Travel operators seek one-month tax waiver for out-of-State tourist vehicles during Mysuru Dasara

In a representation to Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, Transport Minister Byrathi Suresh and the Transport Commissioner, the association requested that tourist transport vehicles arriving from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Goa and Maharashtra be exempted from the applicable taxes and permit fees during the festival period.

The top goalscorers for club

Mbappe, Haaland and Kane are at the top, unsurprisingly. But in what order? The post The top goalscorers for club & country in 2026 so far: Kane still clear but Yamal, Mbappe rising appeared first on Planet Football .

Over one lakh students get study tables, express gratitude to CM Yogi in unique ways

Digital Desk | Lucknow, Sep 27 (IANS) Hundreds of students chose unique ways to express gratitude to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for providing them with study tables. Many penned a letter to the Chief Minister, decorating it with flowers and pictures of study tables; some wrote the message of Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao along with a portrait of Yogi Adityanath to thank the Chief Minister. For the 100,000 children in Devipatan division, these study tables have become a valuable asset, creating a little corner for studies at home. Swati, a recipient of a study table, expressed her happiness in a letter to the Chief Minister. She wrote that she was extremely happy after receiving a new study table and shared that she uses the table every day for her studies. Along with decorating her letter with flowers, she also drew a picture of the study table, a book and a pencil at the bottom. A letter from Saba, a Class 6 student, describes the changes the study table has brought to her daily study routine. Thanking the Chief Minister, Saba wrote that she used to face inconvenience while studying at home, but the study table has made studying much easier for her. Nuzhat Fatima, a Class 7 student, prepared a letter of gratitude to the Chief Minister on a sheet of blue chart paper. Nuzhat wrote that this has increased her interest in her studies, and she is now able to study with greater concentration than before. She expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister by drawing a picture of a female student studying with coloured pencils. The children's letters of appreciation were not limited to words alone; many created posters. One child drew a large portrait of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and wrote Beti Bachao (Save the Girl Child) and Beti Padhao (Educate the Girl Child) on both sides. Another poster depicted a student being handed a table at the school gate, accompanied by the slogan: If the daughter studies, she will progress and bring glory to Uttar Pradesh. Divisional Commissioner Durga Shakti Nagpal told newsmen that a target had been set to distribute one lakh (100,000) study tables across four districts of the Devipatan Division, under the 'Shiksha Ki Udaan' (Flight of Education) campaigna goal that has been fully achieved. The campaign aims to foster a culture of disciplined study at home while encouraging academic excellence in government schools. By providing study tables to meritorious students, the initiative seeks to create a space for continuous and focused study outside the classroom. She said that children from rural backgrounds received these study tables, which have now become their personal study spaces. According to Divisional Commissioner Durga Shakti Nagpal, the highest number of tables34,260were distributed in Bahraich. This was followed by the distribution of 27,650 tables in Gonda, 26,984 in Balrampur and 11,106 in Shravasti. She explained that the 'Shiksha Ki Udaan' campaign was designed to provide study tables to the top-performing students in government schools.

Technology Must Be Owned In India: Samtel CEO On Viksit Bharat Goal

Samtel Avionics CEO Puneet Kora said that India needs to do more than just manufacture defence equipment.

PVUNL inks MoA with ALIMCO for disabled empowerment

Recently, PVUNL and ALIMCO entered into a Memorandum of Agreement to support differently-abled individuals in Patratu. The agreement's goal is to improve the quality of life and self-reliance among those with disabilities. An assessment camp will be held to identify the needs of beneficiaries in neighboring areas, ensuring eligible participants receive tailored assistive devices based on their medical evaluations.

Asian Games: India crush Singapore, set up Korea semifinal

The Indian women's hockey team secured their spot in the Asian Games semifinals by defeating Singapore 7-0 in their final Pool B match. Sunelita Toppo scored two goals, leading India to top their pool with a perfect record. They are set to face Korea in the semifinals, while China and Japan will play in the other match. Despite the dominant win, India struggled with penalty corner conversions.

Form 6, Goa's 97 voters: What Sandhu, Joshi flagged; EC reacts

The Election Commission of India has announced decisions addressing concerns raised by two election commissioners, Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, over the past 10 months. These issues included changes to voter registration forms, access to the electoral roll database, the handling of Goa's 97 voters, communications issued without full commission approval, oversight of the IT division, and appeals against voter restoration. The EC has provided responses and outlined steps to resolve these internal disputes and improve transparency and compliance.

Can you name every player to score 20+ goals for England?

A roll call of the great and good. The post Can you name every player to score 20+ goals for England? appeared first on Planet Football .

Goa Formalises Special Purpose Vehicle 'Namo Tarang' To Oversee Implementation Of Water Metro Network

Indirect aggression common in Indian conversations on X during major events

Indirect aggression in Indian conversations on social media platform X is most common during major social, financial, sporting and political events, business school researchers have found after they used machine learning models to examine patterns of aggressive communication, analysing more than 1.31 lakh posts. The study, titled Indian Aggression Detection through Multiple ML Models from Twitter Data, was conducted by researchers at Goa Institute of Management (GIM) and Goa Business School. The findings have been published in renowned journal Advances in Consumer Research. The study explored whether machine learning could help to identify different forms of aggression in Indian X posts and how aggressive behaviour varied across emotionally and politically charged events. The researchers classified the posts into three categories -- Overtly Aggressive (OAG), Covertly Aggressive (CAG) and Non-Aggressive (NAG). The findings indicate that OAG responses among Indians remained ...

GIM Study: Indirect Aggression Prevalent On Indian X During Major Events

Researchers from Goa Institute of Management (GIM) and Goa Business School conducted a study analysing over 1.31 lakh posts on social media platform X using machine learning models. They found that indirect aggression is most common during major social, financial, sporting, and political events in India. The study classified aggression into overt, covert, and non-aggressive forms, noting that overt aggression remained relatively low but peaked during events like India's T20 World Cup loss. The findings have significant implications for online moderation and communication policies.

From turgid to thrusting - mixed start for new Scotland

BBC Sport Scotland's Tom English reviews a mixed start to life as Scotland head coach for Sebastien Pocognoli as his side open their Nations League campaign with a goalless draw in Slovenia.

Amla, Moringa drive rural empowerment, nutrition push: PM Modi in 'Mann Ki Baat'

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 27 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his 'Mann Ki Baat' address on Sunday, highlighted the growing economic and nutritional significance of Amla and Moringa, underscoring how traditional produce is creating new livelihoods while strengthening the fight against malnutrition. Amla, long valued in Indian households for pickles, murabba, juice and as a key ingredient in Chyawanprash during winters, is now opening fresh avenues for farmers and women entrepreneurs, he said. The deep-rooted connection between Pratapgarh in Uttar Pradesh and Amla has been further strengthened through the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative. Nearly 100 local units in the district are engaged in Amla processing, with self-help groups of women playing a central role, PM Modi told citizens through his popular programme. One such group, the 'Savitri Phule Self Help Group' in Devgarh Kamasi village, produces Amla candy, murabba and juice, he said, and further informed, expanded market access has significantly raised the income of its members. Similarly, the Vindhyavasini Self Help Group makes Amla pickle and digestive powder. These women received processing machinery, access to loans and opportunities to participate in local trade fairs, resulting in a marked rise in their earnings. The Prime Minister stressed that every region of India possesses unique fruits, traditional arts or special skills. The ODOP campaign aims to take these beyond local markets to other parts of the country and even global markets. This, he said, reinforces the Vocal for Local movement and supports the goal of a self-reliant India. He urged citizens to keep the spirit of Vocal for Local alive during the upcoming festive season. On the nutrition front, September has been marked by multiple efforts to combat malnutrition, PM Modi said. In Chhattisgarh, he informed, the 'Har Ghar Munga' campaign is encouraging families to include nutritious Moringa (locally called Munga) in their daily diet. Gujarat has organised 'Vangi Spardha', a competition featuring dishes made from millets and other local nutritious ingredients, drawing participation from over two lakh people, PM Modi shared the information. Maharashtra is witnessing growing local involvement in similar nutrition-focused drives, while Mizoram has launched a collective campaign for the care and maintenance of Poshan Vatikas (nutrition gardens), he said. These initiatives, the Prime Minister noted, complement the digital strengthening of Anganwadi centres, which now have nearly nine crore beneficiaries registered, enabling better care for children, pregnant women and lactating mothers. He called for sustained efforts to make the country completely free from malnutrition by promoting affordable, locally grown superfoods such as Amla and Moringa.

Virat Kohli Confirms Upcoming World Cup Will Be His Last, Says Goal Is Absolutely to Win

India batting star Virat Kohli has confirmed that the upcoming ICC Mens Cricket World Cup in South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe will be his final appearance at the tournament for India. Kohli made the announcement while speaking to JioStar, saying that winning the World Cup remains his primary motivation. For me, it's the last World Cup I'm going to play for India. And that is my motivation. And of course, the goal is absolutely to win the World Cup. And whatever it takes, I'm absolutely ready, Kohli said. The veteran batter is closing in on the 15,000-run mark in ODI cricket. He has represented India in four ODI World Cups and was part of the title-winning team in 2011. After announcing his retirement from Test and T20I cricket, Kohli is now focused on the 50-over format and the next World Cup. Explaining the demands of the tournament, Kohli highlighted the intensity involved in playing multiple matches at the highest level, particularly in overseas conditions. The intensity of a 50-over World Cup is greater than anything. Because now, it's about 10 games at a T20 level of intensity. But you are playing 2.5 T20 games in one day. And to maintain that intensity for 10 games in a big tournament and World Cup is a big deal. Also now, it's in foreign conditions. It takes a lot out of you, Kohli said. Kohli has established himself as one of the most prolific batters in World Cup history. He has played 37 World Cup ODIs, accumulating 1,795 runs at an average of 59.83, including five centuries and 12 half-centuries. His highest World Cup score is 117. Overall, Kohli has scored 14,941 runs in 302 ODI innings at an average of 58.59. His ODI record includes 54 centuries and 79 fifties, with a highest score of 183 and a strike rate of 93.95.

Vishal suffers back injury during Purushan climax shoot in Goa

Rent versus buying a home: How should a young professional decide?

From hidden ownership expenses to opportunity costs, learn how to calculate whether homeownership aligns with your long-term goals

Nepal seeks bigger role between India, China

Digital Desk | United Nations, Sep 27 (IANS) Nepal wants to turn its position between India and China into an economic advantage, Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal said, describing stronger trade with India and better links to China as parts of the same strategy. Speaking at New York event, Khanal said Nepals question in what he called a rising Asian century was no longer how it could survive between two large neighbours. It was how the country could create value between them and beyond them. We did not see our northern and southern corridors as competing directions, he said. We see Nepal land linked to two of the world's largest markets, home to nearly three billion people. India remains central to that plan. Khanal said Nepal shares an open border of more than 1,700 kilometres with five Indian states and sees scope for closer links between Nepali production and the Indian market. He also pointed to hydropower as a source of growth, with Nepal aiming to expand generation and export clean electricity to India and, onward, to Bangladesh. In a discussion after his address, Khanal described the new Nepali governments relationship with India as Excellent, I'd say. He said he had met Indias external affairs minister in New York and that high-level visits and exchanges had taken place. The ties extend well beyond government contacts. Almost two third of our trade is with India, Khanal said. Nepal also relies heavily on routes through India for access to ports, while the two countries have close cultural and social links, he said. Asked about border disagreements and the wider task of managing relations with New Delhi and Beijing, Khanal said his government was concentrating on practical cooperation. There would be issues on which the neighbours differed, he said, but Nepal was looking for areas where they could make progress. He cited positive momentum in energy trade with India. On China, Khanal said Nepal was pursuing better road links across the Himalayas and envisaged rail connections over time. He described China as Nepals second-largest trading partner after India and said Chinese investors were among the largest investors in the country. Nepal signed a memorandum on Chinas Belt and Road Initiative in 2017 and a framework agreement in December 2024, Khanal said. He added that the two countries had yet to begin implementing projects under it. Nepal was also seeking cooperation with China on glacial monitoring, disaster warnings and climate adaptation. Khanal framed these efforts as part of a policy he called development autonomy. Nepals goal, he said, was to reach middle-income status within 10 years and developed, high-income status by 2050. Foreign partnerships should help build productive capacity and jobs at home. The United States also has a place in that approach. Khanal said Nepal wanted more US investment and described current exchanges between officials as robust. He said his government was not strongly pursuing security alliances or security cooperation, given Nepals geography and sensitivities, though the two countries had cooperated on security matters in the past. Khanal also linked the countrys economic plans to governance. He said young Nepalis had demanded action on corruption and poor public services, and that the government was seeking investment while improving how the state works.

When AI agents go rogue: Australia breach warns countries like India

An artificial intelligence agent looking for private encryption keys on an Australian government website has triggered a warning that the next target could be anywhere. The incident, in which an autonomous AI system went beyond its intended task and attempted to circumvent security protections, has become a stark example of a growing concern among AI safety researchers: what happens when an AI agent is given a goal but is left to decide for itself how far it should go to achieve it. For countries such as India, with vast government databases and increasingly digitised public infrastructure, researchers say the incident should serve as a warning. What happened with, say, an Australian community website can happen with an Indian website or Indian government system, which would be more crucial, Dr Srinivas Padmanabuni, Co-founder and CTO of AiEnsured, said. India should bring in regulations. It could become horrible when one major incident happens and somebody steals the secrets of

UEFA Nations League: Spain sink England, Croatia edge Czechia

UEFA Nations League: Spain sink England, Croatia edge Czechia New Delhi: Spains Mikel Oyarzabal scored the decisive goal to overcome England, while the evergreen Luka Modric starred as Croatia beat Czechia in UEFA Nations League games. Oyarzabal got another winner against England, as the man who settled the EURO 2024 final for Spain earned the [] The post UEFA Nations League: Spain sink England, Croatia edge Czechia appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

Today's Birthday : 27th September 2026

Happy Birthday & welcome to special section of Webdunia . Here, We render the Astro update & sheds light on the personality of the Birthday Boy/ Girl. If your birth date falls on 27th , the birth number becomes (2+7) 9. The last number of the numerology is number 9. The number is influenced by planet Mars. The number 9 people are always pumped up and seen cruising towards goal. These people are quiet Brave. As Mars planet is considered the commander of planets, Number 9 people are bestowed with leadership skills. However, people have always doubted on your wisdom. Most of them are either cunning or mischievous. While others avoid altercation you are always up for it. Therefore, you are considered as differently brave people. Lucky Day : 9, 18,27 Lucky Number : 1,2,5, 9,27, 72 Lucky Year : 2016, 2018, 2025, 2036, 2045 Ishtdev: Lord Hanuman, Goddess Durga Lucky color : Red, Saffron, Yellow The year ahead: Utilizing the powers lead you to success this year, especially in important work projects. A better coordination from friends and family is expected. The internal family disputes will be resolved this year. The professional barriers seem to be weakening. You enjoy a good health this year. Celebs with birth number 9 Kaka Hathrasi Kopal Krishna Gokhale Bobby Deol Sajid Nadiadwala Amrita Singh Salman Khan

ECI extends Delhi SIR claims deadline to October 30, Maharashtra to October 12

The controversy spans objections raised by Joshi and Sandhu on issues such as changes to Form 6 used for new voter enrolment, the functioning of the online system ECINET, the redistribution of work in the IT division, appeals in the West Bengal SIR, and the handling of cases involving voters in Goa, for instance

EAM Jaishankar holds meetings with Canada, Mexico, Venezuela counterparts on sidelines of UNGA

EAM S Jaishankar had separate meetings with Canadian, Mexican, and Venezuelan foreign ministers during the 81st United Nations General Assembly. He discussed advancing bilateral relations with Canada while highlighting the importance of energy ties with Venezuela. Jaishankar emphasized that each nation should shape its AI ecosystem according to its own goals.

Trump, Xi move to ease tariffs on $60 billion trade

Digital Desk | Washington, Sep 27 (IANS) US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping have moved to ease tariffs covering $60 billion in two-way trade and opened a new dialogue on advanced artificial intelligence, producing the first concrete economic and technology outcomes from Xis state visit. A White House fact sheet said the US-China Board of Trade had reached consensus on recommendations for more favorable tariff treatment covering $30 billion of non-sensitive goods in each direction. Chinas official account used firmer language. It described an arrangement for a 30-billion-US-dollar reciprocal tariff reduction and said the two leaders directed their officials to implement it. Neither side disclosed the proposed tariff rates, the size of the reductions or when the changes would take effect. The American goods covered by the recommendations include agricultural products, fish and seafood, logs and wood products, cosmetics and medical devices. Chinese products include small appliances, toys, holiday decorations and childrens car seats. The Board of Trade also created a working group to address barriers facing agricultural trade. The mechanism and a separate US-China Board of Investment were chartered during Trump and Xis summit in Beijing in May and formally put into operation during the Washington visit. The investment board will discuss potential projects and obstacles. It is also intended to provide a regular channel for commercially significant investment disputes. The White House said China would import at least 10 million metric tonnes of US coal in 2027 and at least another 10 million tonnes in 2028. That commitment was not included in Chinas published list of summit outcomes. Rare earths remain unresolved. Washington said the countries were continuing to work on American concerns about shortages of rare earths and other critical minerals. The goal was to restore shipments to appropriate levels. Chinas statement did not mention the issue. Xi said stable economic relations required cooperation as well as competition. Cooperation is a two-way street. To keep the economic and trade ties stable, the list of cooperation needs to be lengthened, and the list of issues shortened, he said, according to Chinas Foreign Ministry. Technology was another major part of the talks. The White House said Trump and Xi agreed to use the term super intelligence rather than artificial intelligence for the emerging technologies covered by their discussions. They established a US-China Super Intelligence Dialogue to exchange views on the benefits and risks of the technology. Its next exchange is due by November. The countries will also create a bilateral communication channel for incidents involving advanced AI. China called the mechanism the China-US AI Dialogue and said its next exchange would occur in November. Xi also said, AI must be kept under human control. The leaders agreed to pursue a constructive relationship of strategic stability based on respect, fairness and reciprocity. They plan to meet again at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Shenzhen in November and the Group of 20 summit in Miami in December. Their discussions also covered Iran, Russia and North Korea. The White House said they agreed Iran must never acquire a nuclear weapon and that no country or institution should impose tolls on international waterways.

Goa Crime Branch Seizes Over 10 Kilograms of Cannabis, Two Arrested

Goas Crime Branch has arrested two individuals, including a minor, and seized over 10 kg of cannabis valued at approximately 10.5 lakh. Goa Crime Branch Seizes Over 10 Kilograms of Cannabis, Two Arrested

Raising Children in a Changing World

Parenting has never been an easy responsibility, but in todays fast-changing world, guiding children has become more demanding than ever. The child growing up in a Kashmiri home is exposed not only to the values of family and community, but also to an endless stream of information, opinions and influences through smartphones, social media and the internet. In such an environment, parental guidance is not a luxury. It is a necessity. Guidance, however, should not be confused with control. Parents are often concerned about their childrens safety, education and future. Their concern is natural. Every parent wants to protect a child from failure, disappointment and harmful influences. Yet, when concern turns into constant suspicion, comparison or pressure, it can create distance between parents and children. A child may obey outwardly but withdraw inwardly. The result is a home where conversations become instructions and silence replaces trust. Children need parents who are present, not merely parents who provide. Food, clothing, education and material comfort are important, but emotional availability is equally necessary. A few minutes of attentive listening can sometimes achieve more than a long lecture. When a child speaks about a fear, a mistake or a personal struggle, the first response should not always be anger. A calm conversation can open a door that punishment may permanently close. The need for such understanding is especially serious in Kashmir, where children grow up amid social, economic and emotional uncertainties. Young people face academic competition, unemployment concerns, changing social expectations and the pressure to appear successful before their peers. Many carry anxieties they do not know how to express. Some fear disappointing their parents; others feel that their problems will be dismissed as weakness or disobedience. Families must recognise that emotional distress is not a sign of poor character. It requires attention, compassion and, when necessary, professional support. Education remains one of the central responsibilities of parents, but education should not be reduced to marks and ranks. A childs worth cannot be measured only by examination results. Every child has a different pace, temperament and ability. Some excel in academics, while others show promise in art, sport, public speaking, technology or community service. When parents compare their children constantly with neighbours, relatives or classmates, they may unintentionally weaken their confidence. Encouragement, on the other hand, gives children the courage to work harder and recover from setbacks. Parents must also teach children the difference between freedom and irresponsibility. The answer to the digital age is not complete isolation from technology. Smartphones and the internet are now part of education, communication and everyday life. But children need guidance on how to use them safely and responsibly. Parents should discuss online privacy, misinformation, cyberbullying and harmful content without turning every conversation into a threat. Rules are important, but rules work best when children understand their purpose. The same principle applies to discipline. A home without boundaries can become confusing, but a home ruled by fear can become emotionally unsafe. Discipline should help children understand consequences, not simply make them afraid of punishment. Physical or humiliating punishment may produce temporary obedience, but it does not teach self-control or responsibility. A child who is corrected with dignity is more likely to learn from a mistake. A child who is shamed may learn only to hide it. Parents must also examine the example they set. Children listen to advice, but they observe behaviour more closely. If parents demand honesty but lie in everyday situations, ask for respect but insult others, or insist on patience while reacting angrily, children receive conflicting lessons. Values are not transferred through speeches alone. They are built through daily conduct. The atmosphere of a home teaches children how to treat people, respond to disagreement and face hardship. In many households, fathers and mothers continue to carry different expectations regarding children. Boys may be given excessive freedom while girls face strict restrictions. Such unequal treatment can create resentment and limit a childs development. Every child deserves safety, respect and opportunity, regardless of gender. Parents should prepare both sons and daughters to share responsibilities, respect boundaries and contribute to family and society. Equality at home is among the strongest forms of social education. Parental guidance also means allowing children to make age-appropriate choices. Overprotective parenting can prevent children from developing judgment. Parents cannot solve every problem on behalf of their sons and daughters. They can offer advice, explain risks and remain available, but children must gradually learn to decide and accept responsibility. Mistakes made in a safe and supportive environment can become valuable lessons. The aim is not to raise dependent individuals, but capable human beings. There is also a need to revive the culture of conversation within families. A shared meal, a walk, a visit to a relative or an ordinary discussion about the day can create emotional connection. Children may not immediately reveal everything, but regular communication assures them that they have someone to turn to. The strongest family bonds are often built through small, consistent gestures rather than occasional grand expressions of affection. Schools and communities, too, have a role to play. Parents should remain in contact with teachers and take interest in their childrens social as well as academic lives. But schools cannot replace the family, and families cannot ignore the responsibilities of schools and society. Counsellors, educators, religious leaders and community organisations can help create an environment in which children receive balanced guidance. Protecting children must be treated as a shared social responsibility. At the same time, parents themselves need support. Many are raising children while managing financial pressure, work-related stress and their own unresolved emotional burdens. A stressed parent may find it difficult to remain patient, even with the best intentions. Communities should encourage open discussions about parenting and mental health rather than treating them as private matters surrounded by shame. Seeking help is not a failure; it is an act of responsibility. The goal of parenting is not to produce children who never question, fail or disagree. It is to help them become thoughtful, honest and resilient adults. A child should be able to respect elders without losing the ability to think independently. They should value tradition while understanding the changing world. They should learn ambition without becoming arrogant, and humility without becoming fearful. Parental guidance is, ultimately, a relationship built on trust. It requires firmness when necessary, but also warmth; it demands responsibility, but also forgiveness. Children remember the words parents speak, but they remember even more clearly how those words made them feel. If a home offers respect, children carry respect into society. If a home offers compassion, children learn compassion. The future of any society is shaped in its homes long before it is shaped in its institutions. Kashmirs children deserve parents who guide them with wisdom rather than fear, discipline them with dignity rather than humiliation and support them with patience rather than comparison. The finest inheritance a parent can give is not wealth or status, but confidence, character and the assurance that home will always remain a place of understanding. ( The author is a lecturer and columnist)

EAM Jaishankar warns of Global Souths 4F crisis

Digital Desk | United Nations, Sep 27 (IANS) The Global South faces mounting threats to its food, fuel, fertiliser, and finance security, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar told the UN General Assembly on Saturday, warning that shortages and trade barriers were putting development gains under pressure. The predicament of the global South is particularly acute, he said. It faces a 4F crisis of the security of food, fuel, fertiliser, and finance. EAM Jaishankar cited a super El Nio, worsening fertiliser shortages and obstacles to grain movements as causes for alarm. Progress on the Sustainable Development Goals was also under strain, he said. He argued that non-market practices and restricted access to markets were making it harder for developing countries to industrialise. Technology, once a source of hope, was creating new anxiety. The misuse of artificial intelligence was sharpening bias and weakening mutual respect, he said. The pressures came amid a wider loss of trust between nations, EAM Jaishankar said. Countries were trying to reduce their exposure to risks and diversify their economic ties as competition disrupted supply chains and access to technology. Against that backdrop, he presented Indias domestic progress as a contribution to global development. Better delivery of health care, nutrition, education, drinking water, electricity, roads and housing had improved the prospects of one-sixth of humanity, he said. Indias digital public infrastructure was helping deliver social and economic benefits, he added. Improvements in infrastructure, business conditions and innovation had also contributed to the countrys growth. EAM Jaishankar said India wanted to share approaches that could work elsewhere. He pointed to 600 major Indian development projects in 78 countries, covering infrastructure, manufacturing, agriculture, information technology and training. Even as India progresses, we are conscious of our global responsibilities, he said. We know that many of our experiences and achievements are replicable elsewhere. Climate projects were part of that work, he said, citing clean energy and water, sustainable agriculture and the sharing of technology and practical knowledge. African nations and small island developing states had been preferred partners. He also named the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure and the Global Biofuels Alliance as initiatives that were making progress. India had provided medical supplies to conflict zones and places affected by epidemics and natural disasters, EAM Jaishankar said. He cited its early response to flash floods in Nepal and an earthquake in Venezuela. He said Indian programmes had also helped address shortages of food, medicine, energy and fertiliser, while supporting livelihoods. Training and the sharing of experience had made a difference across the Global South, particularly in Africa. EAM Jaishankars remarks placed the needs of developing countries at the centre of his address. He said the international climate was becoming less predictable even as those countries faced pressure to meet their development goals. The UNs Sustainable Development Goals cover areas including poverty, health, education and clean energy. They provide a common framework for countries to measure progress, though governments decide how to pursue them. India has used forums including the UN to seek a greater voice for developing nations in decisions on finance, technology and development. EAM Jaishankars speech linked that demand to the practical pressures he said those nations now face.

55th Kendriya Vidyalaya National Sports Championship: Jaipur girls emerge U-14 football champions; goalkeeper Vrinda Tinker shine

India U17 women lose to Philippines

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 26 (IANS) The India U17 womens team lost 2-4 to the Philippines in the first of two closed-door friendly matches at the Vagator Football Ground in Anjuna, Goa, on Saturday. Anushka Kumari (85') and Joya (89') scored for the Young Tigresses. The visitors scored in the 47th, 50th, 68th and 79th minutes. India will meet the Philippines again on Tuesday. The Young Tigresses are preparing for the AFC U17 Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers, which will be held in Malaysia from October 5 to 11. Earlier, the Indian U17 women's team drew 0-0 in both friendly matches against Uzbekistan last week, and while on paper the scoreline might suggest two quiet evenings in the Uzbek capital, the Young Tigresses' Tashkent trip was anything but uneventful. There were no goals to celebrate at the UFA National Football Centre, but for head coach Joakim Alexandersson, there was much more to look for than the numbers. With the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers scheduled to be held from October 5 to 11 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the two friendly fixtures against the Central Asian side offered a glimpse of the new U17 batch beginning to find its shape and foundation. Before that, the India U17 womens team ended their second friendly against Uzbekistan in a 0-0 draw at the UFA National Football Centre in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on August 30. Both sides had also played a goalless draw in the first friendly on Thursday. The Young Tigresses will now return to Goa to continue their preparations for the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers. They will play two friendly matches against the Philippines on September 26 and 29. The Asian Cup qualifiers will be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from October 5 to 11.

Asian Games: South Korea holds off Japan for women's basketball gold, China takes bronze

Digital Desk | Nagoya (Japan), Sep 26 (IANS) South Korea held off a late Japanese rally to win the women's basketball gold medal 75-70 at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games in Nagoya on Saturday, while China beat Chinese Taipei 77-64 for bronze. South Korea led by 19 points at halftime, but Japan clawed back to within two, 70-72, with 15 seconds left before South Korea closed it out at the free-throw line. South Korea's Lee Hae-ran led all scorers with 24 points and nine rebounds, while Kang Lee-seul added 21 points and seven rebounds. Japan's Haru Owaki nearly posted a triple-double with 23 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists, reports Xinhua. We built a big lead early on, but they came back quite a lot in the second half. I don't think we maintained our concentration very well... but in the end, we won, so I'm extremely happy, Lee said. Japan's Miyu Okamoto pointed to a slow start. If we had a better start, I think we would have had a much better chance of winning, she said. In the bronze medal game, China overcame a cold shooting night from deep, 1 of 10 from behind the arc in the first half, to pull away in the third quarter behind 2.23-meter centre Zhang Ziyu, before Luo Xinyu, Tang Ziting and Zhang Manman sealed it with fourth-quarter threes. Chen Mingling led China with 20 points, with Zhang and Luo adding 14 and 12, respectively. Chinese Taipei's Lin Yu-ting had a team-high 15 points, and Chen Yen-yu scored 11. We only put up 13 threes yesterday, compared to their 40. If you want them to go in, you have to keep shooting, China's Yang Shuyu said. China's head coach Gong Luming struck a reflective note afterwards. We came here to win gold, and we didn't get it. But for a young team like this one, chasing a shared goal together means something, he said.

India to host 4th Junior and 11th Senior Asian Pencak Silat in Goa

The News Mill

Donald Trump predicts Cuba and United States will make a deal

President Donald Trump predicted on Saturday that the US and Cuba will reach an agreement and that he does not think military action will be necessary. The Trump administration has openly stated that its goal is to change Cuba's government. In an address to the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, Trump called Cuba a failed state and said freedom will be coming to the island nation.

Minister launches sheep and goat insurance scheme in Karimnagar

Minister launches sheep and goat insurance scheme in Karimnagar

Cox Ready To Seize ODI Series Decider Opportunity At The Oval After Injury To Buttler

Jordan Cox: Wicketkeeper-batter Jordan Cox said he is ready to step into the spotlight and seize a crucial opportunity when he replaces injured Jos Buttler behind the stumps for Englands series-deciding third ODI against Sri Lanka, to be played at The Oval on Sunday. Cox looks set to don the gloves after Buttler was ruled out with a hamstring injury, thus paving the way for the youngsters first 50-over appearance for the national side since 2024. The call-up caps off a remarkably busy home season for Cox, who has successfully fought his way back into contention across all three formats after enduring a string of bad luck with injuries, including a fractured thumb that cruelly denied him a Test debut in New Zealand two winters ago. I definitely feel like the extra two years helped me get to know my game, especially in the red-ball format. I know my game a bit better. I was young... You don't really understand what it really means to play for England. Now I've had time away, two years of not being able to play and seeing other people do well for England, and you go, 'I really want a slice of that'. It's something I really wanted to do; I wanted people to be able to trust me -- even in that number three spot when Beth was unfortunately injured -- for people to say 'he's taken it with both hands'. I feel like I've done that, Cox was quoted as saying by Cricinfo on Saturday. His adaptability was on full display during the recent Test series against Pakistan, where he took over the gloves following Jamie Smith's finger injury and effected five dismissals before hitting the winning run to seal a 3-0 whitewash. If I do get the opportunity, that will be awesome. Jos is probably the best white-ball cricketer we've produced, but he's someone who can go under the radar in 50-over cricket. Whoever comes in will be an excited person. The opportunity in sport comes around, and you've got to look forward to the challenge. It's going to be amazing, 1-1 isn't what we wanted, but for the series to be on the line and to finish at The Oval with a packed house will be pretty special. They're the games you want to be playing in. To get 2-1 and a series win is massive, and that's always a goal for us as a team. But it's also about enjoying the moment and finishing the summer on a high, noted Cox. Looking ahead to a packed winter schedule featuring tours to Pakistan, Australia, South Africa, and Bangladesh, Cox stated he is determined to focus on performance rather than long-term guarantees. I'm just trying to take it day by day. To be fortunate enough to play three formats for England is something I wanted to achieve last summer. Injuries are part of the sport, but to be able to do that now, in all three, it's now about - can I cement a spot somewhere? I feel like you can reflect when you retire. I'll just try to get the opportunity to go to Pakistan, then it's Australia, South Africa, all these things. It's all from putting performances on the field. I've understood that I've had a lucky year, or a good year, playing so much for England, but it's only a start, he added. I'm just trying to take it day by day. To be fortunate enough to play three formats for England is something I wanted to achieve last summer. Injuries are part of the sport, but to be able to do that now, in all three, it's now about - can I cement a spot somewhere? Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Once you play for England, your next goal is 'can I get a central contract?' If I was to get one, that would be pretty awesome. If I get the call after the day's play on Sunday, or Monday morning, then that would be pretty special, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

'Catastrophic assault on democracy': Shashi Tharoor on ECI row

Digital Desk | Kozhikode, Sep 26 (IANS) Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Saturday called reports of differences within the Election Commission of India (ECI) a catastrophic assault on democracy, urging all citizens, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), to fight it. Speaking to reporters in Kerala's Kozhikode, Tharoor said: This is an incredibly grave assault on the functioning of Indian democracy. Meanwhile, the ECI issued a press release after its meeting on Saturday afternoon to quell reports of internal differences and clarify the context in which ECI functionaries wrote a letter to the Cabinet Secretary. The Congress MP claimed that a large number of Indian citizens have been deprived of their democratic right to vote, apparently based on many irregularities, including an illegal modification of Form 6 requiring data that has not been required in the past. They (ECI) have actually gone ahead and made some changes without the consent of two of the three Election Commissioners, which itself is a violation of the procedures of the Election Commission. Days earlier, a report by a leading newspaper claimed differences within the poll panel, with decisions being taken allegedly without the knowledge of the two Election Commissioners. Tharoor further said: On top of that, we have a situation where, shockingly, we are seeing software that has been imposed over the heads of the electoral officers. And as a result, for example, one instance that has been found is that in Goa, 97 people have not only been deprived of the right to vote, but because of that they've also been deprived of the right to have dialysis treatment and other medical assistance and so on. The Congress leader was referring to the ECINet software, which the media reported had blocked access to Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) on the ground. This is not anything minor or routine; it's not political, it's not administrative. It is a fundamentally untenable, catastrophic assault on our democracy, he said while urging parties to unite in the fight against the challenge. There is no question anymore that our country is facing a very severe challenge. If the integrity of our elections is in doubt, then how will our democracy stand? If people in this country feel that even their identity is subject to the whims of some low-level officers and a software that has not been verified, tested or based on anything logical, then how on earth can our country proudly stand itself in front of the world and call itself the world's largest democracy? Tharoor questioned. Mentioning that the Congress has called a party Working Committee meeting on September 29, he said, I'll be going there to Delhi for that. Moreover, Shashi Tharoor urged BJP leaders to unite with the Opposition to defend democracy. I feel that on this matter every citizen of India, even members of the BJP, should be united with us. Our democracy is larger than any individual, any party. It's for everyone to defend, he stated.

ECI on defensive, refuses to relent on demand for CECs resignation: Congress

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 26 (IANS) Claiming that the ECI has been forced into a defensive posture, the Congress on Saturday reiterated its demand for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and sought the immediate suspension of the SIR of electoral rolls. Criticising a press release issued by the ECI after its afternoon meeting to quell reports of internal differences, the Congress described SIR as a drive for massive disenfranchisement of several crores of electors. Nothing short of the CECs resignation or prosecution will suffice, said Jairam Ramesh, Congress MP and General Secretary (Communications), referring to the alleged big differences within the Election Commission. In a message on X, Ramesh said that in the wake of media reports exposing disagreement among ECI functionaries and the nationwide protests that have followed, seeking the removal of Gyanesh Kumar, the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), the Election Commission of India (ECI) has now come out with a press note on September 26th, 2026. First, the Press note does not directly deny the story or its findings. It makes a defensive attempt to downplay the same in paragraph 3(i) and 3(ii) but does not say that the allegations are baseless, said Ramesh, pointing to the issues flagged in media reports. Second, in the case of Goa, after having been caught out, the ECI has sheepishly stated that Form 6 has already been filled out for inclusion by 81 of the 97 deleted voters. To put this another way, you disenfranchise voters through a broken and corrupt system, and when caught, say that they are being added back, he said. Third, it seeks to justify the Commissions actions by appealing to the Order of the Supreme Court dated May 27th, 2026. The Order, which was pronounced well before the recent revelations, will not save the CEC from the malicious deletion of targeted voters, from the incompetence that has resulted in citizens being wiped off the rolls, for the crores lost in both expenses and person-hours due to the confusion and harassment caused to entire families, said the Congress MP. Fourth, it extends the deadlines for voter registration in Delhi and Maharashtra. But what happens to the voters of Karnataka and Telangana? What happens to the voters disenfranchised in Bihar and West Bengal? Do the voters of these and other states who were deleted due to one mans corruption not deserve answers? he said. Fifth, the Press Release also states the ECI will now involve experts from IIT/IIIT to review the ECINET portal and submit a report to ensure it complies with rules. Aside from being a meaningless safeguard (since the concern is not about the technical soundness but rather the centralisation which prevents voter addition at ground level), this confirms the concerns attributed to the two other Election Commissioners per the reportage, said Ramesh. Sixth, the Press Note avoids answering the questions regarding the deliberate targeting of Gen Z voters. The ECI has no answer for its targeted disenfranchisement, beginning mid-July 2026 through wholly illegal changes made to Form 6 (unseen and unapproved by Parliament) which placed an unfair burden on them to find and disclose their parents and/or grandparents details, he said. The revelations regarding (1) the unilateral nature of decision-making by the CEC, (2) his open hatred and bias against the Opposition resulting in a clear bias, (3) his willing participation and abetment in Vote Chori by the ruling regime, (4) his specific attack to prevent the enrollment of Gen Z voters, (5) his corruption exposed ironically by his negligence in purging and pruning voter lists, need to be answered for, he said. Ramesh added, The CEC thinks he can hide behind bureaucratise and protocol. He stands exposed and is now petrified as an entire country seeks to hold him accountable. The ongoing SIR, which has turned out to be a method of massive disenfranchisement of several crores of Indians, must be suspended immediately without delay. In the meantime, nothing short of the CECs resignation or prosecution will suffice, said Ramesh.

EXCLUSIVE: Chahatt Khanna ADMITS speaking her mind has cost her a lot, reveals family begs her not to do interviews; recalls bike stunts on MTVs Stuntmania and prep for Pati Patni Aur Panga, says, It gave me goosebumps

Chahatt Khanna has opened up about her debut web show Hasratein 4 and the reason she eventually decided to take on the role of a single mother. The actress, who has previously appeared in films and television projects, revealed that she had earlier been hesitant about playing a mother's character on screen. However, the relevance of her character in Hasratein 4 eventually changed her mind. Speaking exclusively to Bollywood Hungama, Chahatt said there was no conventional casting process for the show. She received a call about the project but initially turned it down once or twice before reading more about the character. There was no casting process as such because it's been a while since I've been in the industry, so I got a call, and then I initially refused this because I was not really sure about the project. But then when I read the character, it was very relevant, she said. The actress explained that the character was the primary reason she eventually agreed to do the show. She also revealed that she has been selective about the projects she takes on and has rejected several offers in the past. I used to refuse a lot of things. For that matter, I'm very choosy about what I want to do, what I don't want to do, how the project is being done. So, according to that I'm a very choosy actor. So, whatever I say yes to, I've already refused 10x things, Chahatt said. Chahatt Khanna on Playing a Single Mother for the First Time Chahatt also spoke about playing a single mother in Hasratein 4, revealing that she had previously been among the actors who were hesitant to portray a mother on screen. She said the role felt natural to her because of her own experience as a mother. The character was very relevant. It came very naturally to me because I was also one of those actors who refused to play a mother's character. So, the first time I played a single mother's character, she said. She added, As a mother, I have lived so many years that coming to your performance is very, very easy. It just slides in. Chahatt Khanna on Action in Pati Patni Aur Panga: I Felt That I Am Meant for Action Apart from Hasratein 4, Chahatt also reflected on her experience of performing action sequences in Pati Patni Aur Panga. The actress underwent MMA training again for the project, having previously trained in the discipline. There were action sequences. And there were stunts. There were shooting sequences. I mean, it was a proper action sequence, she said, adding that she restarted her MMA training for around two months to get back into form. For Chahatt, the experience went beyond physical preparation. She said performing action came surprisingly naturally to her and made her realise that the genre could be a space for her as an actor. This is the first time I'm doing action. And it was so... it just gave me, like, goosebumps. After every shot, I wanted to do one more. I was like, okay, let's do one more shot, she recalled. I did the first action sequence and the first action-based OTT series. I felt that I am meant for action. Action is my space, she added. Chahatt also revealed that she had an early connection with martial arts. She said she learnt karate when she was young and is a green belt. She later took up MMA several years ago and trained for around a year before eventually returning to it for Pati Patni Aur Panga. According to the actress, the weight loss that accompanied her preparation was not the primary goal. Instead, she wanted to reactivate her muscle memory and regain her familiarity with fighting techniques. Losing weight is a by-product. When you are doing so much, fat loss is a by-product of it. It's not like we target fat only, she said. Chahatt also recalled her earlier experience with stunts on MTV's Stuntmania, where she performed bike stunts and other physically demanding tasks. She said the years of training eventually helped her during the action sequences in her recent project. I didn't even know that I could do action sequences so effortlessly. So, all these years of practice, it just came in handy, she said. Chahatt Khanna on being candid in interviews Khanna also reflected on the challenges of speaking openly during interviews. The actor said her candid nature has sometimes created complications, particularly because comments made during video interviews can quickly become headlines. My family members beg me not to do (video) interview. And I beg my manager to stay with me if I do it, she said. Explaining why she remains cautious, Khanna added, In a video interview, you say something, and then you dont realise. And then the headlines are made. Despite knowing that her comments can invite opinions and reactions, the actor said she is willing to accept that consequence. Yes, its costing me a lot. But its okay. Even if it didnt cost me, people would still have an opinion about me, she said. Khanna is currently seen in Hasratein 4, which is streaming on Hungama OTT. Also Read:EXCLUSIVE: Chahatt Khanna recalls being held by aunties in malls after her Bade Achhe Lagte Hain character turned villain; says, It became difficult for me to step out, reveals why shed consider doing The Traitors over Alliance!

Heathrow Airport's third runway may be delayed to 2039

The UK's busiest airport says the original goal of 2035 will be difficult to meet without simplifying the planning process.

Can you name the 20 Spanish players with the most Premier League goals?

Featuring a couple of incredibly tough names. The post Can you name the 20 Spanish players with the most Premier League goals? appeared first on Planet Football .

India Can Achieve Over 10% Growth with Technology and Innovation, Says Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasizes the role of technology in achieving Indias growth goals by 2047 during an event in Chennai. India Can Achieve Over 10% Growth with Technology and Innovation, Says Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman

CEC Gyanesh Kumar, ECs Sandhu-Joshi meet; Form 6, SIR decisions clarified (Lead)

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 26 (IANS) The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday sought to quell reports of differences within the poll panel, with Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi holding a full commission meeting at Nirvachan Sadan in New Delhi. In a detailed press note accompanied by a photograph of the three commissioners, the EC addressed allegations concerning its internal functioning, the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, voter enrolment and its technology systems. The statement came days after The Indian Express reported on September 23 that Sandhu and Joshi had raised objections to several decisions and orders linked to the SIR exercise. The reports triggered a wider political controversy, with Opposition parties questioning the functioning of the Commission and demanding greater transparency. The EC maintained that the June 24, 2025, order launching the SIR across states and Union Territories was approved unanimously by all three commissioners. It said subsequent schedules related to the exercise were also issued with unanimous approval. The Commission further noted that the Supreme Court had upheld the original SIR order. On Form 6, used for enrolment of new voters, the EC addressed concerns over a declaration introduced during the SIR process requiring applicants to establish their linkage with the previous SIR through their parents' names. The Commission said the declaration had been upheld by the Supreme Court. Outside the SIR exercise, it clarified, forms prescribed under the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, would continue to be used. The Commission also responded to questions surrounding 97 voters in Goa who had initially been left out of the electoral rolls. It said the Chief Electoral Officer, Goa, had directed Booth Level Officers to conduct house-to-house visits and collect the necessary forms. Of the 97 voters, 81 had already submitted Form 6 for inclusion. On ECINET, concerns had been raised about access to electoral-roll databases and the functioning of the portal. The EC said field officials receive role-based access in accordance with their statutory powers. It announced a review of ECINET by a committee headed by a Senior Deputy Election Commissioner and including an independent expert from an IIT or IIIT. The Commission also clarified that a letter sent to the Cabinet Secretary concerned the redistribution of work involving an officer on deputation related to the officer's functioning, rather than any policy concerning the EC or its IT division. As part of measures to strengthen internal procedures, the EC said agendas for Commission meetings would be circulated in advance and minutes issued thereafter. It also stated that directions issued by commissioners to officials would be complied with meticulously. The EC further extended SIR deadlines in Delhi and Maharashtra, while reiterating that its major decisions had been taken collectively and unanimously.

Governor urges VTU graduates to become job creators, focus on innovation

Thaawarchand Gehlot, who is also the Chancellor of the university, calls upon students to dream big, set ambitious goals and work continuously towards achieving them.

Trump, Xi agree to establish AI communication channel

Digital Desk | Washington, Sep 26 (IANS) US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to establish a bilateral communication channel for artificial intelligence (AI) incidents and use the term super intelligence rather than AI during their summit in Washington this week, the White House has said. Trump and Xi also agreed that no country can be allowed to impose tolls on international waterways, the White House said in a fact sheet on outcomes from their summit, as Iran asserts control over the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping route for oil, natural gas and other commodities, reports Yonhap news agency. During the summit, the leaders discussed a range of ongoing global concerns, including North Korea, Russia and Iran, the White House said. It did not elaborate on their discussions about North Korea amid questions over whether the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the North's denuclearization. The two countries established the U.S.-China Super Intelligence (SI) Dialogue to exchange views on risks and benefits related to SI, the fact sheet said. The next exchange will occur by November 2026. The United States and China also agreed to establish a bilateral communication channel for SI incidents. The reference to the next SI exchange appears to point to the anticipated Trump-Xi meeting in November, when China will host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Shenzhen. Trump has pushed for the new term, SI, saying that all U.S. documents will use the much more accurate term because the word artificial makes intelligence sound fake. On Iran, the leaders agreed that the Islamic Republic can never have a nuclear weapon, and that no country or institution can be allowed to impose tolls on international waterways. The fact sheet did not mention the Strait of Hormuz. During the White House summit, Trump urged Xi to increase production of refined petroleum products to stabilize global supply, the document said, amid concerns over high energy prices -- a crucial economic issue that could affect voter sentiment ahead of the U.S. midterm elections in November. As they highlighted the need for cooperation between the superpowers, the two sides discussed fostering peace and prosperity o enhance confidence for businesses and consumers around the world, according to the fact sheet. The two countries agreed to build a constructive relationship of strategic stability on the basis of respect, fairness, and reciprocity, it said. The leaders also operationalized the government-to-government mechanisms of the bilateral Board of Trade and the Board of Investment, which were chartered during their previous summit in Beijing in May. The Board of Trade is designed to manage bilateral trade across nonsensitive goods, while the Board of Investment is a government-to-government forum for discussing investment-related issues. Under the Board of Trade, the two countries reached consensus on recommendations for more favorable tariff treatment for US$30 billion of nonsensitive goods in each direction, according to the fact sheet. The board also launched a working group focused on addressing market access barriers in the agricultural sector. Moreover, China plans to import at least 10 million metric tonnes of coal from the U.S. in both 2027 and 2028. On rare earths and other critical minerals, the fact sheet noted that the two countries continue to work on U.S. concerns regarding supply chain shortages, with the goal of ensuring shipment levels return to appropriate levels. On Friday, Xi wrapped up his three-day state visit to the U.S. -- his first trip to Washington in more than a decade. This week's summit marked the leaders' third in-person meeting since Trump's return to office, following their meetings in Busan last October and in Beijing in May.

Erling Haaland could overtake Kylian Mbappe

He's coming for your records, Kylian... The post Erling Haaland could overtake Kylian Mbappes international goalscoring record NEXT WEEK appeared first on Planet Football .

Rayner attacks Mahmood's care worker visa plan for 'changing the goalposts'

Rayner says Mahmood's plan unfairly changes the goalposts for foreign care workers. Care workers on health and care visas would wait 15 years, not five, for permanent residence. The rules would apply retrospectively to arrivals since 2021. More than 100 Labour MPs and trade unions oppose the plan ahead of conference. ANGELA RAYNER has criticised home secretary Shabana Mahmood's plan to make it harder for foreign care workers to gain permanent residence in the UK, saying it would unfairly change the goalposts. In an interview with The Times ahead of Labour's party conference, the housing, communities and local government secretary said the plan would hit care workers who had moved their lives here to look after our loved ones. Burnham considers immigration exemption for care workers Under Mahmood's reforms, social care workers who arrived on a health and care visa would have to wait 15 years, rather than five, before claiming permanent residence. The changes would apply retrospectively to those who have arrived since 2021. About 185,000 foreign care workers were recruited directly from overseas between 2022 and 2024, after the Conservative government opened the visa route. Shabana Mahmood orders urgent review after two migrant boat landings Rayner told The Times she stood by her earlier description of the plan as un-British, made before she rejoined the government under prime minister Andy Burnham. Burnham, who inherited the policy from Keir Starmer, also has concerns and is considering exempting care workers already in Britain. More than 100 Labour MPs, as well as trade unions, oppose the plan, which is expected to be a major issue at Burnham's first conference this weekend. Labour backbencher Rachael Maskell told BBC Radio 4's Today programme she expected the reforms to be scrapped. Migrant workers still bring dependants despite UK curbs But culture secretary Lisa Nandy defended them, saying the UK had never offered an automatic right to citizenship to most people arriving from overseas. Mahmood told the home affairs select committee this week that a decision would come very soon. She said the government was trying to strike the right balance between its responsibilities to migrant workers and to people already living here.

Its the last World Cup Im going to play for India: Kohli

For me, its the last World Cup Im going to play for India. And that is my motivation. Like, you know, to leave everything out there. And of course, the goal is absolutely to win the World Cup. And whatever it takes, Im absolutely ready, Kohli said

Rayner criticises visa rule proposals ahead of Labour conference

The housing secretary says the government's plans to change wait times for permanent residency are unfair because they change the goalposts.

India To Host Asian Pencak Silat Championship

The Indian Pencak Silat Federation will host the 4th Junior and 11th Senior Asian Pencak Silat Championship in Goa from April 19 to 23 next year, bringing together top athletes from across Asia with endorsement from PERSILAT.

NDA leaders meet in Bengaluru; BJP-JD(S) to jointly contest 4 Council seats

Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Sep 26 (IANS) The BJP and JD(S) have decided to jointly contest elections to four Legislative Council seats in Karnataka, with leaders of the two parties arriving at an understanding to fight the polls together at an NDA meeting held in Bengaluru on Saturday. The NDA meeting in Bengaluru on Saturday was attended by BJP State President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra, Union Minister and JD(S) State President H.D. Kumaraswamy, Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Assembly R. Ashoka, JD(S) Legislative Party Leader in the Assembly Suresh Babu, Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council Chalavadi Narayanaswamy and JD(S) Legislative Party Leader in the Council S.L. Bhojegowda. Speaking to the media after the meeting, Vijayendra said a special meeting of BJP and JD(S) leaders had been convened to discuss preparations for the upcoming Legislative Council elections to one teachers' constituency and two graduates' constituencies. He said the two parties had decided to contest all four seats together and work jointly to ensure victory in all the constituencies. We have decided that the BJP and JD(S) should contest the elections together in all four constituencies. We have to win all four seats and work together towards that goal, Vijayendra said. He added that the responsibilities of party leaders for each constituency had also been announced. Vijayendra further alleged that Congress legislators in the state government had lost confidence in Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. Even Congress MLAs in the ruling party are losing confidence in the Chief Minister. The ruling party legislators themselves have lost confidence in the Chief Minister. The Chief Minister is unable to get a grip on the administration, he said. He also alleged that the state government had been reduced to making announcements without adequate funds to implement them. Vijayendra said this had become evident through a letter issued by the Finance Department, and alleged that there was no money in the state treasury. He accused the D.K. Shivakumar-led government of being limited to making announcements. He said the BJP and JD(S) would jointly take up agitations in the coming days and discuss strategies for bringing the NDA to power in Karnataka. We have also discussed how both parties can fight together in the coming days and how the party should come to power in the state. We have discussed bringing an NDA government to power in Karnataka, he said.

India beat Japan 2-0 to seal semifinal berth in Asian Games men's hockey

Defending champions India secured a place in the semifinals after defeating Japan by 2-0. Abhishek opened the scoring with a field goal in the 15th minute of the match. Skipper Harmanpreet Singh converted a penalty corner in the 40th minute to double the lead. India will face Bangladesh in their final pool match on September 28. The team maintained an unbeaten streak throughout the tournament, showcasing their attacking capabilities.

Drug Bust In Goa: Man Arrested, Minor Detained With Ganja

Goa Police have arrested a 24-year-old man from Odisha and detained a 17-year-old youth in connection with a significant drug bust. Over 10.7 kg of ganja, estimated to be worth Rs 10.5 lakh, was seized at the Mapusa interstate bus terminal. Authorities suspect the adult accused used the juvenile for drug trafficking.

India vs Japan Men's Hockey Live Score, Asian Games 2026: Harmanpreet Singh And Co. Marches Into The Semis with 2-0 Win vs Japan

India vs Japan Men's Hockey Live Score Updates, Asian Games 2026: India have increased their lead to 2-0 after Harmanpreet Singh's goal from PC! Abhishek scored the opener for India in the 1st quarter of the Asian games 2026 men's hockey Pool A match

IND v JPN, Men's Hockey Live: Harmanpreet Drills In Powerul Goal, India Take 2-0 Lead

India vs Japan Men's Hockey Live Score Updates, Asian Games 2026: India have increased their lead to 2-0 after Harmanpreet Singh's goal from PC! Abhishek scored the opener for India in the 1st quarter...

Leadership Is Shifting Towards Agility and Continuous Learning

Panaji (Goa) [India], September 26: As India's hospitality sector evolves across luxury, heritage and lean-luxury formats, senior hotel leaders are increasingly required to combine operational expertise with agility, continuous learning and people development, according to Ms. Sheetal Singh, Vice President - Hotel Openings, Full Service Business, The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL).

Absolutely Ready To Do Whatever It Takes To Win In 2027: Virat Kohli

Cricket World Cup: Indian stalwart Virat Kohli has set his sights firmly on the 2027 ICC Mens Cricket World Cup, admitting that the showpiece event in South Africa will be his final ODI World Cup for India and saying he is ready to do whatever it takes to win the title. Indias stalwarts Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who now play just one format at the highest level, are keen to make the most of the road to the 2027 World Cup, with the new home season set to begin against the West Indies on Sunday. Speaking to JioStar ahead of the first ODI, Kohli highlighted the unique intensity of a 50-over World Cup and revealed the motivation driving him towards the marquee tournament. The intensity of a 50-over World Cup is greater than anything. Because now, it's about 10 games at a T20 level of intensity. But you are playing 2.5 T20 games in one day. And to maintain that intensity for 10 games in a big tournament and World Cup is a big deal. Also now, it's in foreign conditions. It takes a lot out of you, Kohli said. For me, it's the last World Cup I'm going to play for India. And that is my motivation. Like, you know, to leave everything out there. And of course, the goal is absolutely to win the World Cup. And whatever it takes, I'm absolutely ready. Kohli has been one of the most productive batsmen in World Cup history. He has played 37 ODIs in the World Cup, scoring 1,795 runs at an average of 59.83, including five hundreds and 12 fifties, with a top score of 117. In his overall ODI career, he scored 14,941 runs in 302 innings at an average of 58.59 with 54 centuries and 79 fifties. His highest score is 183 and strike rate of 93.95. Kohli also has a phenomenal record in T20 World Cups having scored 1,292 runs in 35 matches at an average of 58.73. He has 15 half-centuries, the most in the tournaments history, and has been named Player of the Tournament twice, in 2014 and 2016. Rohit, meanwhile, said he does not view his ICC World Cup ambitions as unfinished business that can simply be marked complete, stressing that there will always be another challenge as long as he continues playing. The thought will never cross my mind that the business I had is finished. As long as you're playing, there is always something to look forward to. And I'm looking forward to the World Cup, looking at what lies ahead for me, Rohit said. Rohit, meanwhile, said he does not view his ICC World Cup ambitions as unfinished business that can simply be marked complete, stressing that there will always be another challenge as long as he continues playing. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The first ODI of West Indies tour of India will be played on Sunday, with the match scheduled to begin at 2 PM and broadcast live on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network. Article Source: IANS

GOLD FOR INDIA! Women

India have scored another golden goal in their Asian Games campaign as the women's kabaddi team clinched the gold medal after defeating Iran 37-34 at the Asian Games 2026. India had to dig deep to see out a tense second half

Indias new wealth creators: Why diversification is changing investment strategies

Indias new wealth creators are looking beyond traditional investments, exploring alternatives, global markets, and more diversified portfolios as their financial goals evolve towards more sophistication.

Prosecutor accused of misconduct in 'Broadview Six' case resigns, says US attorney 'scapegoated' her

A prosecutor who has been accused of misconduct over a failed attempt to bring felony charges against six protesters of the federal immigration crackdown in Chicago has resigned

Scorpio Daily Horoscope for September 26, 2026

You are likely to be in a more serious frame of mind. The practical issues of life are going to demand your attention today. But you are full of faith and optimism and are ready to take chances at the deepest emotional levels. Someone near to you will exhibit concerns regarding your aims and goals. Take the time to explain the situation to them. Read full Scorpio horoscope

Taxi fares revised, night travel to cost more

NT Reporter Panaji Taxi travel in Goa is set for a major fare restructuring, with the State Transport Authority notifying new distance slab-based rates for yellow/black taxis as well as tourist taxis, motor cabs and maxi cabs, replacing the fare schedules notified in August 2021. The new rates come into force from their publication in []

First foreign charter flight toland at Dabolim on Sept 30

NT Reporter Vasco Goas first foreign charter flight of the 2026-27 tourist season is scheduled to arrive at Dabolim airport on September 30, with around 180 tourists from Russia. An Aeroflot charter flight is expected to bring the tourists from Russia. During the tourist season from October to March, around 144 foreign charter flights are []

701 more AI cameras tobe put up at 68 locations

NT Reporter Panaji Goa is set to expand its artificial intelligence-based traffic enforcement network, with 701 additional AI cameras proposed to be put up at 68 locations in the next phase. This will take the technology-driven enforcement system well beyond the 348 cameras already installed at 26 locations. Between four to 15 cameras will be []

Keep calm and carry on

Contentment requires recognizing the present moment and understanding what can be changed. It involves cultivating emotional well-being and acknowledging current blessings, while still pursuing goals. According to teachings, true contentment fosters tranquility and enables individuals to face challenges without being overwhelmed by negativity.

HomePod rumors: All we know about HomePod mini 2, HomePod Touch

Macworld Apples HomePod lineup could be about to undergo its biggest expansion since the original HomePod launched. Rather than simply refreshing its existing smart speakers, Apple is reportedly preparing several new smart home devices, including products that blur the line between HomePod, smart display and home hub. The company is said to have three smart home products very nearly ready to release, according to Bloombergs Mark Gurman. However, Apple is reportedly delaying their launch until its redesigned AI-powered Siri is ready, with the new assistant expected to debut alongside the OS 27 updates later this year. If those plans stay on track, Apple could unveil its next wave of HomePod and smart home devices shortly after iOS 27 and the upgraded Siri are released this fall. In this guide, we round up all the latest rumours and reports about Apples upcoming HomePod products, including expected release dates, new hardware, Apple Intelligence features and pricing. What are the new HomePod products? Apples HomePod lineup currently consists of two models, both of which became more expensive following Apples June 2026 price increases. The HomePod mini now costs $129, while the 2nd-generation HomePod is priced at $349. But the real story isnt the current speakers its the next generation of smart home devices Apple is preparing. According to multiple reports, Apple is developing several new HomePod-related products, including updated HomePod and HomePod mini models and a display-equipped smart home hub, widely referred to as the HomePad. Rumored new products include the following, the names arent confirmed, we are using them as placeholders: Placeholder name What is it When Likelihood HomePod mini 2 Updated internals, faster chip, and new colors including red Mid-2026 10/10 HomePod 3 Updated internals, faster chip Mid-2026 10/10 HomePod Touch HomePod with a built-in 6-7in touchscreen Late-2026 6/10 HomePad A smart display with a 6-7in screen possibly wall-mounted. To be the command centre of the home. Late-2026 6/10 HomeHub Combining a HomePod speaker, display, and advanced home-control features (building onHomePod Touch concept, may not be separate product) Late-2026 6/10 Screen mounted on robot arm Display mounted on a robotic arm (could be evolution of HomePod concept) 2027 or beyond 5/10 Security camera A security camera is said to be part of Apples smart home roadmap 2027 or beyond 5/10 Why hasnt Apple launched the new HomePod devices yet? The biggest obstacle is Siri. Apples next-generation Siri is designed to be a far more capable assistant, able to understand conversational context, personal information and on-screen content as part of Apple Intelligence. However, the chips inside todays HomePods simply arent powerful enough to support these features. The HomePod mini uses the Apple Watch S5 chip, while the 2nd-generation HomePod runs on the S7 chip. Those processors work well for music playback, HomeKit control and basic voice commands, but they lack the performance needed for Apples latest AI models. As a result, Apple is widely believed to have delayed its new HomePod hardware until it can launch devices capable of delivering the full Siri AI experience. Bloombergs Mark Gurman reports that several smart home products are effectively ready , but are being held back until the redesigned Siri ships with the iOS 27 software updates later this year. That means the next generation of HomePods is expected to feature significantly more powerful Apple silicon, enabling Apple Intelligence features that the current models cannot support. HomePod mini 2 Well start off with the rumors about the HomePod mini 2. The HomePod mini is Apples smaller, more affordable smart speaker. The new model is expected to offer a new red color option, major processor upgrade and improved connectivity. Foundry When is the HomePod mini 2 expected to launch? October 2026 Apple introduced the original HomePod mini in November 2020, so it is now nearly six years old and overdue for an update. Rumours of a successor have circulated for more than a year. In January 2025, reports suggested a launch toward the end of 2025 , and Bloombergs Mark Gurman subsequently said that new HomePod mini and Apple TV models were expected in autumn 2025 . Those products never materialised. Attention then shifted to spring 2026, with reports suggesting Apples new smart home devices would launch alongside its redesigned Siri. However, that timetable also slipped as Apple continued work on its AI-powered assistant. The latest reports now point to an October 2026 launch. According to Bloombergs Mark Gurman, Apple has several smart home products that are nearly ready but is waiting for the redesigned Siri to ship with the OS 27 updates before introducing new hardware. If those plans remain on schedule, the HomePod mini 2 is expected to launch alongside Apples broader refresh of its smart home lineup this fall, with most reports pointing to October. What changes are coming to the HomePod mini 2? Black, blue, green, pink, and white. The current HomePod mini is available in Midnight, White, Blue, Yellow and Orange. In September 2025, Bloombergs Mark Gurman reported that Apple has tested additional colours for the next-generation model, including red, although it remains unclear whether any new colours will make it to the final product. In September, MacRumors spotted Apple code that revealed the new colors: black, blue, green, pink, and white. Otherwise, it is expected to retain the same compact, spherical design as the current model, with no major external changes rumoured. Instead, Apple is reportedly focusing on more powerful internal hardware, with an S9 or newer chip able to support next-generation AI-powered Siri features. Other changes coming to HomePod mini 2 Alongside a faster processor, the HomePod mini 2 is also rumoured to include: Apple Intelligence support, enabling the redesigned AI-powered Siri, although some features may arrive after launch if Siri development continues to slip. Improved connectivity, including Apples in-house networking chip, Wi-Fi 6E and an upgraded Ultra Wideband chip. Audio improvements, with upgraded drivers and enhanced sound processing. Minor hardware refinements, such as a removable power cable, although this remains speculative. HomePod 3 The larger HomePod is more expensive than the HomePod mini, delivering richer, louder audio with deeper bass and spatial audio. The next generation is expected to get a processor upgrade, improved connectivity and better sound. Michael Brown/Foundry When is the HomePod 3 expected to launch? October 2026 Apple has not officially announced a third-generation HomePod, but Bloombergs Mark Gurman says the company is preparing several new smart home products that are being held back until its redesigned AI-powered Siri is ready. If those plans remain on schedule, the HomePod 3 is expected to launch alongside the HomePod mini 2 following the release of the OS 27 updates later this year. What changes are coming to the HomePod 3? Unlike the HomePod mini 2, there are relatively few leaks about hardware upgrades coming to the full-size HomePod. However, its expected to receive the same core internal upgrades needed to support Apples AI ambitions. Expected improvements include: More powerful chip : The current HomePod uses the S7 chip from the Apple Watch Series 7. A next-generation model is expected to adopt a significantly faster Apple silicon chip, potentially the S9 or newer, to support Apple Intelligence features. Apple Intelligence Support : The upgraded hardware should enable Apples redesigned AI-powered Siri and other Apple Intelligence features, although some capabilities may arrive after launch if Siri development continues to slip. Improved Connectivity : Rumours point to Apples in-house networking chip, together with Wi-Fi 6E and an upgraded Ultra Wideband chip for improved performance and smart home integration. Audio Enhancements : Apple is also expected to refine the speaker system with upgraded drivers and audio processing. In September, a post by itspdfu , who has a history of posting leaks online, said that audioOS27, the operating system for HomePod devices, supports Siri AI. In addition to Siri AI support, the new HomePod will have new animations for the devices display. Beyond these internal upgrades, some reports suggest Apple is experimenting with a HomePod featuring a built-in display. That device is expected to be a separate product rather than a standard HomePod 3, and we cover those rumours in the next section. HomePod with screen Apple has been rumored to be working on a HomePod with a screen for years, and while it hasnt launched yet, the evidence that its coming is now overwhelming. Read on to find out what we know about the HomePod with Screen perhaps called HomePod Touch based on the latest reports. Foundry and Apple When will the HomePod with Screen launch? Possible launch: Delayed until fall-2026 Apple has been working redesigning the HomePod to include a display for some time. Back in March 2023, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claimed Apple would unveil a redesigned HomePod featuring a 7-inch panel. Kuo initially expected this product to arrive in the first half of 2024, but that timeline slipped. In December 2024, he reported further delays had pushined the launch to after WWDC 2025 , citing software development challenges. Then, in March 2025, Kuo suggested the device had been delayed again, due to Apple Intelligence setbacks . Current speculation suggests a possible release in the fall of 2026, with the release slipping as the major updates to Siri and Apples AI platform have been further delayed . Alternatively, the HomePod Touch may gain AI related features as part of a later software update. HomePod with display incoming? Foundry What will the HomePod with Screen be like? Display size: Touchscreen 6 and 7-inches Software : Custom touchscreen operating system running apps like Weather, Calendar, Photos, HomeKit as well as Apple Music One of the biggest limitations of todays HomePod is that almost every interaction relies on Siri. A built-in display would provide a more direct way to control music, manage smart home devices and access information, putting Apples device in direct competition with the Amazon Echo Show and Google Nest Hub. According to current rumours, Apples display-equipped HomePod will feature a 6-7-inch touchscreen and run a touch-optimised version of homeOS, allowing it to function as both a smart speaker and a smart home hub. Unlike existing HomePods, it is expected to use a far more powerful A-series chip possibly an A18 or similar to support Apples redesigned AI-powered Siri and the more demanding graphical interface. Rumoured features: Large touchscreen : A 6-7-inch display for controlling smart home devices, viewing photos, checking the weather, following recipes and interacting with apps. Powerful Apple silicon : An A-series chip is expected to replace the S-series processor used in current HomePods, providing the performance needed for Apple Intelligence and the touchscreen interface. Dedicated smart home hub : Enhanced HomeKit and Matter controls, with apps including Weather, Calendar, Photos, Apple Music and Home. Improved connectivity : Apples in-house networking chip, Wi-Fi 6E and an upgraded Ultra Wideband chip are all rumoured. FaceTime camera : Reports suggest Apple may include a built-in camera for FaceTime and other video-based features. Possible modular design : Some rumours suggest the display could magnetically dock with a full-size HomePod speaker, allowing it to be used either as a standalone smart display or as part of a higher-fidelity speaker system. If accurate, this would represent Apples biggest expansion of the HomePod lineup since its debut, transforming it from a voice-first speaker into a full smart home controller. Amazon Echo Show beside the HomePod mini, Ben Patterson/Foundry HomePad or HomeHub smart hub: Rumors & release date for smart display with robot arm Possible launch : Late 2026 or 2027 if Siri updates are delayed Strategy : Brand new category of products HomePad release date Apples first-ever smart home display had been rumored to launch in the spring of 2026, but its been delayed due to issues with Siri, according to Bloombergs Mark Gurman. He claims the hardware has been ready for some time , according to anonymous sources with knowledge of the matter. Another leaker, known as Kosutami, who has made accurate predictions in the past, posted on X on March 5 to predict: Autumn. Home. Integrated with Pad. Now coming. That somewhat cryptic post doesnt necessarily refer to the HomePad, but it seems likely. What is the HomePad? Apple has reportedly been exploring a broader smart home strategy for years, and the HomePad could be its most ambitious step yet. As far back as April 2021, Mark Gurman described a high-end device combining a HomePod speaker, a touchscreen, and a camera mounted on a robotic arm that could follow the user around the room during video calls. Gurman has made various references to this over the years. Reports suggest Apple may be planning multiple smart home hub products, potentially split into two tiers: Low-end smart display (J490) : A stationary device with an approximately 7-inch screen, designed for wall mounting or docking. It would focus on HomeKit control and FaceTime calls. High-end robotic hub (J595) : A more advanced version featuring a display mounted on a robotic arm. This Luxo Jr.-like device could function as a videoconferencing system and home security tool, though it may not arrive until late 2026 or even 2027. A revamped, AI-powered Siri is expected to be central to the experience and its ongoing development is widely believed to be the main reason these products have yet to launch. Imagen 3 (Gemini) HomePad Smart Hub Design, Features & Specs Speculation regarding the HomePads internal specifications and software capabilities includes: Processing Power : Internal code suggests the device, codenamed J490, may be powered by the A18 chip , which is capable of supporting advanced Apple Intelligence features. Operating System : The hub will likely run a version of TVos that incorporates iOS-like features . For instance, the inclusion of the ChatKit framework in recent software betas suggests the HomePad may support iMessage and texting, features not currently available on Apple TV or standard HomePods. Kitchen Integration : A new CookingKit framework and expanded food sections in Apple News indicate that kitchen assistance, such as searching for recipes by ingredient, could be a primary selling point. Entertainment : Beyond home control, the device is expected to function as an entertainment hub for streaming music and video, as well as making FaceTime calls via a built-in camera. Advanced Home Control : Code found in the iOS 26 Home app describes an Adaptive Temperature feature, which could allow the HomePad to offer more granular control over smart thermostats, including energy-saving optimizations based on local electricity rates. Camera : There are suggestions that the device could combines a HomePod with a camera, or place a camera on a robot arm. This camera could also be used to recognize gestures. Some years ago a patent was filed that related to a future HomePod that could interpret 3D hand gestures. That patent describes a HomePod that can interpret three-dimensional hand gestures as a means of controlling the device so as to execute an action or function. What chips will power the new HomePods? The biggest limitation of todays HomePods isnt their speakers its their processors. The HomePod mini still uses the Apple Watch S5 chip introduced in 2019, while the second-generation HomePod runs on the newer, but still relatively modest, S7 chip from the Apple Watch Series 7. Those chips are powerful enough for music playback, HomeKit control and basic Siri requests, but they are not capable of running Apples next-generation AI features. Apple Intelligence currently requires an A17 Pro, M1 or newer chip, making it impossible to bring the full AI-powered Siri experience to the existing HomePod hardware. That hardware gap is widely believed to be the main reason Apple has delayed its next generation of HomePods. Rather than updating Siri on the existing speakers, Apple is expected to launch new models with significantly faster processors capable of supporting Apple Intelligence. HomePod mini 2 & HomePod 3 Bloombergs Mark Gurman has said the only confirmed hardware change coming to the new HomePods is a faster chip, although he has not identified which processor Apple will use. The most commonly suggested possibilities are the S9, S10 or S11 chips, but these remain speculative and have not been reported by Gurman or other major Apple analysts. HomePod with a screen The display-equipped HomePod is expected to require substantially more processing power than Apples existing smart speakers. Because it will reportedly run a touch-based operating system alongside Apple Intelligence, most analysts expect it to use an A-series processor, with an A17 Pro or A18 among the leading predictions. Apple has not confirmed the chip, and these reports remain speculative. Whatever processors Apple ultimately chooses, the goal appears to be the same across the entire HomePod range: replacing ageing Apple Watch chips with modern Apple silicon capable of delivering the full Apple Intelligence experience. New HomePod Prices The prices for the HomePods increased in June 2026: HomePod: $349/349 (was $299/299) HomePod mini: $129/129 (was $99/99) With Apple increasing prices in June 2026, we think that these change are like to stick for the updated versions. However, a HomePod with a built-in screen could command a higher price. It may launch as a separate product altogether, potentially starting around $399/399, or higher, depending on features. Buying advice: Should you wait or buy a HomePod now? With prices recently rising on devices that are already underpowered our advice would be: do not buy now. What is on Apples Smart Home Roadmap Apples smart-home roadmap is expected to accelerate in 2026 and beyond, as the company expands its Home ecosystem with new hardware, AI features and services designed to compete with Amazon and Google. Ongoing : Apple continues to lean on the Matter standard to increase device compatibility. Updates like Matter 1.5 have added support for security cameras and energy management, which Apple is expected to integrate into the Home app. February 2026 : On February 10, 2026, Apple ended support for its legacy HomeKit architecture. This transition removed the ability to use an iPad as a home hub, restricting that role to the Apple TV 4K or HomePod. Mid 2026 : Launch of new HomePod mini 2 and HomePod 3. Later in 2026 : Apple intends to overhaul Siri. A completely redesigned, LLM-based Siri is expected to debut in early 2026 to power the new smart hubs. Previous delays in the smart home roadmap were largely attributed to Siris development snags September 2026 : iOS 27 (expected September 2026) may include AI vision recognition, allowing cameras to recognize specific users and their actions to trigger automations while maintaining privacy. Fall 2026 : Launch of Apples HomePad device(s). Other Smart Home products coming from Apple Apple Security Camera : Reports indicate Apple plans to enter the security camera market with its own hardware. Code discovered in iOS 26.2 includes a new isFirstPartyAccessory flag, suggesting support for Apple-branded cameras and doorbells that integrate deeply with the ecosystem. Robotic HomeHub : A home assistant with a display mounted on a robotic arm