New Zealand detects H5 bird flu
New Zealanders are being asked to be alert after a single ocean-going seabird, a brown skua, returned a confirmed positive test for H5 bird flu after it was found on Petone beach in Wellington
Iran threatens to block more vital seaways as Trump orders renewed Iran blockade
The latest threat to global shipping comes after the U.S. military said it began a fresh round of strikes to continue degrading Iranian capabilities used to attack commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz
Oil prices rise as hostilities worsen in West Asia
Brent futures climbed 99 cents, or 1.2%, to $85.72 a barrel. West Texas Intermediate futures gained 64 cents, or 0.8%, to $79.98 a barrel
Cuba plunged into third nationwide blackout in two weeks as fuel runs low
The blackout was the third such incident in two weeks as a U.S. oil embargo stresses the island's grid
Trump withdraws planned 20% levy on Hormuz ships, calls for trade deals with Gulf countries instead
He announced that the Strait of Hormuz is open to all ship traffic except for Iran
Non-Resident Indians can invest foreign earnings in Indian rupees through NRE fixed deposits. These deposits offer tax-exempt interest and free repatriation of funds abroad.
Lebanon and Israel hold talks in Rome amid renewed West Asia fighting
According to a Lebanese diplomatic source familiar with the content of the talks, the Lebanese army is ready to gradually take control of the localities from which the Israeli army would withdraw
Jaishankar discusses global developments, including West Asia, Ukraine with UN Chief Guterres
Mr. Jaishankar launched Indias official campaign for a non-permanent seat at the UN Security Council for 2028-29 at an event at the world bodys headquarters in the United Nations that was attended by UN ambassadors, diplomats and officials
Chirag Veer Singh Sarao becomes first Sikh American to join U.S. Air Force Academy
On April 4, Mr. Sarao was appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy and received the religious accommodation on June 20 to serve with his articles of faith and remain grounded in his core identity said, officials
Quote of the day by Francis of Assisi expresses a timeless truth about generosity and human fulfillment. Giving enriches both the receiver and the giver by building stronger relationships, encouraging gratitude, developing character, and creating meaningful purpose. Whether through kindness, knowledge, forgiveness, encouragement, or service, every act of generosity contributes to a better world. Francis of Assisi reminds us that the greatest rewards in life are often invisible but deeply meaningful. By choosing compassion over selfishness and service over self-interest, we discover that true wealth lies not in what we keep for ourselves but in what we willingly share with others. In giving, we ultimately receive joy, peace, wisdom, and the enduring satisfaction of making a positive difference in the lives of those around us.
Nirmala Sitharaman calls for greater NRI outreach to boost foreign currency inflows
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman urged banks to intensify outreach to non-resident Indians. Innovative deposit products and foreign currency inflows are key objectives for banks. These initiatives aim to bolster forex reserves and support the Indian rupee. Banks reported significant interest from non-resident Indians across various jurisdictions. The Reserve Bank of India is actively supporting banks in deposit mobilization efforts.
EU, U.K. hit Russia with joint sanctions over cyber attacks
The move comes as Western officials warn Russia has stepped up its hybrid campaign to destabilise Europe over four years into the war on Ukraine.
Ex-Meta techie wraps up 14 years of life in US after layoff, says he's tired of immigration clock
Finance Minister asks banks to intensify outreach to NRI diaspora and introduce innovative deposit products to maintain the pace of mobilisation
Trump says U.S. will blockade Iran in Strait of Hormuz and will charge ships for safe passage
Trump said on social media that Iranian ships will no longer be able to travel through the Strait and America would charge a 20% toll on eligible cargo, as the conflict with Iran has intensified after peace talks failed to deliver meaningful progress.
FM asks banks to step up NRI outreach as FCNR mobilisation gathers pace
Banks reported that FCNR(B) deposit mobilisation had shown a clear accelerating trend
A sea of devotees complete parikrama at the rooftop of the world
Around 24,000 pilgrims have visited Mount Kailash in Chinas Tibet Autonomous Region since May this year with the pilgrimage season set to continue till September; the numbers so far are up from 20,750 last year when the pilgrimage was reopened for Indian devotees after a gap of five years
They expressed confidence that ECB mobilisations would gather stronger traction during the third quarter (October-December 2026) of the current fiscal year: Reports
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman urged banks to enhance outreach to Non Resident Indians. Banks are offering attractive returns on foreign currency deposits and are seeing significant interest. Public sector banks are employing customized digital strategies to engage the NRI diaspora effectively. International Banking Units at GIFT City are being utilized for fund mobilization from multiple jurisdictions.
The incident took place as people gathered at the synagogue on Yom Kippur, the day of atonement and the most solemn day in the Jewish calendar
London Jewish community ambulances set ablaze in suspected hate crime, police say
The arson attack is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime, according to officials.
South Korean court sentences former President to two years in jail in political funding case
Yoon Suk Yeol had denied the charges, saying he had not requested the polls or promised anything in return
U.S. hits Iran as Gulf states targeted in flare-up over Hormuz
Iran responded to the latest U.S. attacks by targeting Gulf nations, with the powerful Revolutionary Guards announcing new strikes on Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait, according to state media reports
Ram temple trust to decide CEO's powers, no govt interference: Committee Chairman Nripendra Mishra
The Ayodhya temple trust will soon clarify the roles and obligations associated with the new Chief Executive Officer. This individual will be key in preserving the faith of the devotees and effectively managing the temples financial aspects. A committee consisting of three members is responsible for selecting the prospective CEO. Visitors to the Ram temple have reported encouraging experiences, strengthening their belief.
Myanmar tells ASEAN Aung San Suu Kyi will be looked after: envoy
Suu Kyi is serving a 27-year sentence, recently commuted by one-third, on a multitude of criminal charges that her allies say were fabricated to keep her out of politics
NRI duped of 37,000 by cyber fraudster impersonating TTD official
Ram temple, museum construction cost to be Rs 1,600-1,800 crore: Nripendra Mishra
The Ram temple construction is expected to finish by August 15. The combined cost for the temple and museum will be 1800 crore rupees. A Ram Katha museum, featuring immersive technology, will open in six to eight months. Discussions covered visitor amenities and the potential for an entry ticket system. Financial audits and asset registers are being finalised for the temple complex.
The Embassy added that, along with the Consulate teams and the Vietnamese authorities, it remains committed to facilitating the earliest repatriation
Typhoon Bavi weakens but still brings strong winds, rain to China
Strong winds and heavy rain are expected to impact many eastern and northeastern Chinese cities on Sunday (July 12) and Monday (July 13), China's National Meteorological Centre said
Ram Temple trust to decide CEOs powers, no govt. interference: Nripendra Misra
He also claimed that there have been no complaints from devotees visiting the Ram temple in Ayodhya, and that they feel positively about their experience
Living abroad does not automatically exempt NRIs from filing an ITR in India. Tax filing depends on residential status, income earned from Indian sources, and other conditions such as salary, rent, capital gains, business income, TDS refunds, and DTAA claims.
Boat carrying tourists had barely left shore when it capsized, says witness
Weather conditions were not adverse, says Indian national
Qatars former ruler Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani has died at age 74, state news agency says
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, former ruler and architect behind Qatars stunning ambitions, has died at the age of 74
U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham passes awayat 71
The Republican leader died after a brief and sudden illness, his office said
Embassy of India in Vietnam has finalised the authorised agency that will facilitate the repatriation of the mortal remains of the deceased to India
Ram Mandir donation row: Nripendra Mishra opens up on digital donations, Temple Trust appointments
U.S. military says it is striking Iran in response to attack on civilian vessel in Strait of Hormuz
The United States is imposing a heavy cost by continuing to degrade Iran's ability to attack civilian mariners and commercial ships freely transiting the strait, the American military said.
NATO | Towards a more European alliance
Faced with external security challenges and internal divisions, especially under a sceptical Donald Trump administration, European members are preparing to play a larger role in keeping the alliance united and functional
U.S. delegation in Lebanon to discuss Israel pilot zone withdrawal: official
Under a framework agreement reached on June 26, Israel will gradually withdraw from areas of southern Lebanon where it has deployed troops to fight Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Shia movement
Government intervenes as shipping shocks expose container vulnerability
The first outcome of the 10,000 crore container manufacturing scheme announced in Union Budget 2026-27 came on July 3, when an India-made EXIM container built by DCM Shriram Group was unveiled at Dadri for Maersk, which has placed a follow-on order for another 1,000 containers
Germanys AfD pledges to expel all illegal immigrants
In an address to delegates in the city of Magdeburg, AfD candidate Ulrich Siegmund set out the first 10 measures he promised to implement once in office, following the September 6 vote
Embezzlementat Ram Temple is a disgrace, we feel humiliated, says Nripendra Mishra
This matter now concerns the management of the temple, and it is certain that improvements will be made to prevent a recurrence of this alleged donation theft, thetemple construction committees chairperson, among the first to call for the appointment of a CEO, says
Visa Woes Pushing Big Fat Telugu NRI Weddings Online or to the US
More than 600 couples from Andhra Pradesh have got married in the US between January and June this year due to visa constraints.
In a shocking domestic violence incident in Georgia, a man is charged after allegedly shooting his son and killing his wife. The injured son sought refuge with neighbors while Sheetal Wrzesien, the victim, a tech leader, was lying dead inside the house. The husband was arrested and charged with felony murder.
Ram temple donation 'theft' a disgrace; we feel humiliated: Nripendra Mishra
Ayodhya Ram Temple construction committee chairman Nripendra Mishra called the alleged donation theft a disgrace. He expressed confidence in improving temple management systems to prevent future incidents. A high-level committee is now working to suggest a suitable candidate for CEO. Construction work on the old temple memorial is nearing completion. The main temple structure is expected to finish by the end of July.
Police in U.K. arrest suspect in former MP's murder
Widdecombe, 78, was found dead on July 9 in her Haytor Vale home on the edge of Dartmoor National Park in southwest England after sustaining what police said were serious injuries
U.S. acting spy chief announces new round of staff reductions
Bill Pulte has no prior national security experience, causing Donald Trump to face a political backlash after the Republican leaders loyalist was picked to fill the role temporarily
The main Ram Temple structure will finish construction by July 30. Peripheral projects like the boundary wall and museum are progressing well. The four-kilometer boundary wall is expected to be completed by September 30. Work on the auditorium will continue until November or December. The Ram Katha Sangrahalay's storyline has been finalised for its galleries.
Sold property for Rs 2.63 crore and reported Rs 16.33 lakh LTCG, claimed home loan interest, travel, water, electricity and brokerage as expenses; Tax dept denied the expenses; ITAT Bangalore allows partly allows his expenses claim. Know why did the NRI win the tax case in ITAT Bangalore.
Sunrise, sunset point at Mallappa Konda
H-1B visa revoked: Man says he deeply regrets not paying $600 traffic fine by deadline
An unpaid traffic ticket caused the revocation of an individual's H-1B visa, showcasing the potential consequences of administrative oversights. The man in question said he moved to a new apartment and missed the payment notice.
From Everest to orbit: Indian-origin Nasa astronaut Anil Menon heads to ISS on July 14
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced a limited-time incentive designed to attract foreign currency deposits from Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). The initiative enhances the attractiveness of Foreign Currency Non-Resident (Bank) [FCNR(B)] deposits by enabling banks to offer significantly higher U.S. dollar interest rates while preserving one of the product's most compelling features elimination of exchange rate risk. The window for such deposits runs until September 30, 2026.
FCNR deposits: a compelling opportunity for NRIs
That combination of high foreign-exchange returns, no exchange-rate risk, and tax-free interest in India makes FCNR compelling.
Resident and ordinarily resident individuals must report foreign assets. This disclosure is required in Schedule FA of the income tax return. Non-resident Indians and resident but not ordinarily resident individuals are exempt. Schedule FA requires reporting peak values and beneficial ownership details. Failure to comply can lead to significant penalties under the Black Money Act.
2 arrested for attempt to murder NRI
Man searching for accommodation in US cheated of Rs 1.2L with fake NRI rental offer
The Five Appeals: Enriching the Spirit of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra
Faith Responsibility Sustainability Inclusive Growth National Unity The annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra stands among India's most revered pilgrimages, embodying centuries of spiritual tradition, unwavering faith, and the enduring ideals of Sanatan Dharma. Nestled amidst the snow-clad Himalayas of Jammu and Kashmir, the Holy Cave of Shri Amarnath Ji, with its naturally formed Ice Shivling, draws lakhs of devotees from every corner of the country. Their journey is not merely a pilgrimage to a sacred shrine; it is an affirmation of India's timeless civilisational ethos, where devotion is inseparable from discipline, service, and reverence for nature. The spiritual significance of the Yatra is deeply rooted in Hindu tradition. It is believed that Mahadev revealed the secret of immortalitythe Amar Kathato Goddess Parvati within the sacred cave. To ensure complete solitude, He is believed to have left behind all His worldly companions before entering the cave, symbolising the transcendence of material existence in the pursuit of eternal truth. The sanctity of the Himalayas finds repeated mention in ancient Hindu scriptures. The reveres the mountains as symbols of divine strength, permanence, and spiritual elevation, while the emphasises harmony between humanity and nature. The celebrates Mahadeva Himalayan abode and the spiritual merit of sacred pilgrimage. Likewise, it provides an elaborate account of Kashmir's sacred geography, reflecting the region's rich heritage of pilgrimage and spirituality. For centuries, the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra has also served as a bridge connecting India's diverse cultures. Pilgrims speaking different languages, practising varied customs, and belonging to different regions undertake the sacred journey with a shared sense of devotion. This extraordinary confluence of faith exemplifies the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat, reinforcing the cultural unity that has long defined India's civilisation. In this context, the five public appeals made by the Prime Minister during this year Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra resonate deeply with the enduring values of responsible pilgrimage. The appeal to maintain cleanliness reminds every pilgrim that devotion extends beyond rituals. Keeping the pilgrimage routes free from litter, avoiding single-use plastics, and respecting the fragile Himalayan environment help preserve the sanctity of one of India's holiest shrines. Clean surroundings are not merely a civic responsibility; they are an expression of reverence for both nature and the Divine. The call to support local products and services highlights the Yatra's vital contribution to the economy of Jammu and Kashmir. Every purchase made from local artisans, shopkeepers, transport providers, pony owners, palki bearers, porters, hoteliers, and small entrepreneurs strengthens household incomes and sustains thousands of livelihoods. In this way, the pilgrimage becomes an instrument of inclusive economic development, ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach local communities. Equally significant is the appeal to protect the Himalayan ecosystem. The glaciers, forests, rivers, and alpine meadows surrounding the Holy Cave constitute an ecologically fragile landscape. Responsible conduct by every pilgrim safeguards these natural treasures and ensures that future generations can continue this sacred tradition in its pristine surroundings. The encouragement to use products manufactured in India reflects the broader vision of self-reliance and sustainable economic growth. Supporting Indian-made goods strengthens domestic industries, promotes innovation, generates employment, and contributes to the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat. Pilgrimage thus becomes an opportunity to participate in nation-building through conscious consumer choices. The appeal to place the nation first reinforces the values of discipline, harmony, and collective responsibility. Respect for fellow pilgrims, volunteers, healthcare personnel, civil administration, and security forces contributes significantly to the safe, peaceful, and successful conduct of the Yatra. These values transform the pilgrimage into a powerful expression of national unity and shared purpose. Beyond its immense spiritual significance, the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra remains one of the most important seasonal economic drivers in Jammu and Kashmir. The pilgrimage stimulates demand across transportation, hospitality, handicrafts, retail trade, agriculture, and tourism-related services. Thousands of families depend upon the successful conduct of the Yatra for their annual livelihoods. Responsible and sustainable pilgrimage management not only preserves the sacred character of the Yatra but also strengthens local enterprises, generates employment, and promotes balanced regional development. The Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra has always represented far more than a physical journey through the Himalayas. It is a journey towards inner awakening, self-discipline, compassion, and collective responsibility. It reminds every pilgrim that true devotion lies not only in offering prayers but also in protecting nature, supporting local communities, and contributing to the welfare of society. As another chapter of this timeless pilgrimage unfolds, the values of cleanliness, environmental stewardship, support for local livelihoods, self-reliance, and national unity provide a meaningful framework for ensuring that the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra continues to inspire generations to come. By embracing these principles, every devotee becomes not merely a pilgrim, but also a custodian of India's spiritual heritage, a partner in sustainable development, and an ambassador of the enduring ideals that define the nation's civilisational journey. ( The Author can be reached at: balisachin775@gmail.com )
A UK-based Indian techie's viral post highlights a growing trend among NRIs: returning to India for faster, cheaper healthcare. Facing a three-week wait for a root canal in the UK, he flew home, got the procedure done in two days, and found the entire trip, including flights, was still more affordable than UK treatment.
Pakistan Star, Bought By Kavya Maran's Sunrisers Leeds, Lands In Big Jeopardy
The Pakistan star is facing the country v club debate, and he will have to decide whether to join the national team for red-ball cricket or his franchise for white-ball cricket.
Ram Temple Trust chairman Mahant Nritya Gopal Das admitted to ICU with urinary tract infection
Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, chairman of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, has been admitted to the ICU in Lucknow after being diagnosed with a urinary tract infection. The 89-year-old was found unconscious and is under critical care. This development comes just days before a crucial trust meeting on July 6, which will address the resignation of two trustees amid controversy over missing donations.
DC Edit | Twilight for the Party With a Sunrise Symbol
Allegations, defections and Vijays surge leave the ruling party under pressure
Ocean Of Love, Golden Heart and Enrich show out
Absconding NRI Priest Held at RGIA
Sensitive videos and bank transactions were recovered from his mobile phone and social media accounts.
NRI's Video Response After Bhagwant Mann's 'Mask' Charge In Video Row
Jagman Samra has contested Bhagwant Mann's claims and challenged the Punjab government to provide evidence to support his allegations.
Punjab 2027: Why Winning Over NRIs Could Shape The Election Before Voting
As Punjab gears up for the 2027 Assembly elections, political parties are once again intensifying their outreach to the state's influential Non-Resident Indian (NRI) community.
94-Year-Old NRI Woman Seeks Indian Citizenship to Fulfil Final Wish
She returned to India in 2018 and settled in her native village after her son began working at NRI Hospital in Mangalagiri.
Saudi Telugu assn urges NRI voting rights protection during SIR
Hyderabad: President of the Saudi Arabia Telugu Association (SATA) Srinivas Macha on Tuesday, June 23, urged the governments of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh to protect the voting rights of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in view of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists. Srinivas has asked the governments to conduct large-scale awareness campaigns and strengthen Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Gulf Migrants Families Seek SIR Safeguards To Protect Votes of NRIs
The Election Commission will conduct the SIR through a household survey from June 25 to July 24 across the state.
US NRI Donates 1 Cr to Basavatarakam Hospital
The event was attended by hospital management, doctors, nursing and paramedical staff, and employees. Trust Board members Dr Raghava Rao Polavarapu, Dr Nori Dattatreyudu, J.S.R. Prasad and Dr T.S. Rao were present.
Won't Seek Nucelar Weapons Or Relinquish Enrichment Rights: Iran President
President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated willing to provide assurances that the country was not seeking a nuclear weapon, while insisting that Iran would not relinquish its right to enrich uranium.
Iran Ready to Assure No Nuclear Bomb, Won't Give Up Uranium Enrichment: Pezeshkian
Iranian president says Tehran can provide written assurances on its nuclear intentions ahead of talks with the US in Switzerland.
NRI Kannadigas urge Karnataka government to create separate NRI Affairs Ministry
UDAIPUR, June 20, 2026 (Udaipur Kiran) : A grand and inspiring programme was organised at Sunrise Group of Institutions, Udaipur, on the occasion of International Yoga Day. Held with the theme of Yoga for One Earth, One Health, the event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, teachers and staff members, who pledged to make yoga an ... Read more Over 650 Students, Faculty Members Participate in International Yoga Day Programme at Sunrise Group of Institutions
Yoga enriches body and mind, says Collector
Changing lifestyles and unhealthy food habits contribute to a rise in chronic diseases, but Yoga offered an effective means of preventing such ailments, says S. Kandasamy
'PM Worried About Broken System': Nripendra Mishra On Ram Temple Row
The Uttar Pradesh government has formed an SIT to probe the alleged theft of donations to Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
Nripendra Misra backs Uttar Pradesh government action on Ram Temple donation irregularities
The Ram Temple Construction Committee chairman calls for a more professional management structure, including appointment of a CEO, to oversee the temples administration and transparency in use of every penny of devotees
LIVE| Irans highly enriched uranium to be diluted? Vance faces media after Trump signs peace deal
Canara Bank offers special deposit scheme for NRIs
Chief Minister Yogi to Inaugurate Mahant Nritya Gopal Dass Birth Anniversary in Ayodhya
Ayodhya, June 18: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will arrive in Ayodhya on Friday to inaugurate the birth anniversary celebrations of Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, the president of the Ram Temple Trust. This information was shared by Mahant Kamal Nayan Das in a conversation with a news agency. Preparations for the event are complete, as the ... Read more Chief Minister Yogi to Inaugurate Mahant Nritya Gopal Dass Birth Anniversary in Ayodhya
RBI allows banks to offer higher interest rates to NRIs/PIOs to mobilise forex
As per the directions interest rates on NRE/NRO deposits will not be higher than those offered by the bank on comparable domestic rupee term deposits
RBI temporarily eases NRI deposit rate norms to attract overseas funds
The Reserve Bank of India has eased interest rate rules for overseas deposits. This allows banks to offer better returns on FCNR(B) and NRE accounts. The changes aim to attract more foreign funds until September 2026. This move could boost foreign exchange inflows. It will help strengthen the banking system and manage global market volatility.
10 Indian cities offering strong growth potential for NRI property buyers
The real estate sector in India is increasingly becoming attractive for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), owing to its improved infrastructure, employment opportunities and the need for good-quality housing.
SIT Formed to Investigate Alleged Irregularities in Ram Temple Fund, Says Nripendra Mishra
Ayodhya, June 14: Nripendra Mishra, the chairman of the Ram Temple construction committee, addressed journalists regarding the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe alleged irregularities associated with the Ram Temple donation fund. During the press interaction, he stated that the state government established the SIT in less than 24 hours for the ... Read more SIT Formed to Investigate Alleged Irregularities in Ram Temple Fund, Says Nripendra Mishra
NRI influencer claims she got scammed at Hyderabad Airport
Hyderabad: A Telugu NRI social media influencer took to Instagram to share a recent incident at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (Hyderabad Airport), claiming she had likely fallen victim to a scam. I think I got scammed at the Hyderabad Airport, Sheel Yerneni said in the opening of the video as she began recounting the story. Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Iran insists on nuclear enrichment and control over Strait of Hormuz under any deal with US
Iran insisted on Friday on its right to enrich uranium and maintain control over the Strait of Hormuz under any deal with the United States, after President Donald Trump said a draft accord was ready. Beyond this, according to IRNA, Iran would insist on managing traffic though the Strait of Hormuz, the key maritime trade route carrying oil and gas from the Gulf.
Netanyahu says Trump assured him final Iran deal will mandate removal of enriched uranium
President Trump assured Prime Minister Netanyahu that a deal with Iran would ensure Tehran surrenders its nuclear stockpile. This understanding would also limit Iran's nuclear and missile programs. Iranian officials, however, have not confirmed a final agreement. The US president previously threatened military action but later called it off due to diplomatic progress.
