BJP Leader Devender Singh Rana Dies At 59

Senior BJP leader and Nagrota MLA Devender Singh Rana, brother of Union minister Jitendra Singh, died on Thursday at a private hospital in Haryana's Faridabad. He was 59.

According to a senior BJP leader, Rana was undergoing treatment at the hospital. He is survived by his wife, Gunjan Rana, their daughters Devyani and Ketki, and son Adhiraj Singh.

As the news of Rana's death spread, hundreds of people, including political leaders, gathered at his residence in the Gandhinagar area of Jammu. Union Minister Jitendra Singh also rushed to his house.

Rana, who turned to politics from business as he built a multi-crore business from scratch, was a strong voice for Jammu's Dogra community.

Rana was recently re-elected to the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly from the Nagrota segment of Jammu district, securing the seat for a second term.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed shock and grief over Rana's sudden demise. "In his passing, we have lost a patriotic and widely respected leader who was committed to the well-being of the people of J&K. I extend my deepest condolences to his family and friends. Om Shanti," the LG's office posted on X.

Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary also expressed condolences. "This news is especially disheartening on an auspicious day (Diwali). My condolences are extended to his family and PMO @DrJitendraSingh ji on the loss of his younger brother. Deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Om Shanti," Mr Choudhary wrote on X.

PDP chief and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti also offered her condolences. "Shocked to hear about the sudden demise of Devender Rana Ji. Deepest condolences to his family and loved ones," Mufti said on X.

The Jammu and Kashmir BJP said his untimely demise is a great loss to the party and to the people of J&K. "His contribution and dedication to society will always be remembered. May his soul rest in peace, and may God provide strength to his family to bear this irreparable loss," the party posted on X.

Congress National General Secretary and MLA Ghulam Ahmed Mir expressed his shock and sorrow over Rana's death.

"My heartfelt condolences to the family, relatives, and friends of the deceased. Having interacted with him in politics and beyond, Rana was a great, supportive, and visionary leader, an entrepreneur whose business acumen created opportunities for many in J&K," Ghulam Ahmed Mir wrote on X.

Other political leaders including Sajad Lone, Junaid Matoo, Sunil Sharma, Tarun Chugh, Sham Lal Sharma, Choudhary Zulfikar Ali also offered their condolences on Rana's passing.

Once a trusted lieutenant of National Conference leader Omar Abdullah and his political advisor during his previous tenure as chief minister, Rana held considerable sway among Muslims, particularly the Gujjar community in Jammu.

Born into a Dogra family in Jammu's Doda district in 1965, he was the son of former bureaucrat Rajinder Singh Rana and the brother of Union Minister Jitendra Singh.

After earning a degree in civil engineering from NIT Kurukshetra, Rana ventured into business, founding his own automobile company. He led the creation of the Jamkash Vehicleades Group, a multi-crore enterprise, and a cable TV channel from scratch, establishing himself as a top entrepreneur in Jammu and Kashmir.

Rana began his political career with the National Conference (NC), where he rose to prominence as a key strategist and advisor, expanding the party's base in Jammu as Provincial President.

As a trusted aide to Omar Abdullah, he played a significant role in shaping party strategies in Jammu. In his debut bid for the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, Rana contested from the Nagrota assembly segment -- a BJP stronghold -- and won it for the NC, defeating the BJP's Jugal Kishore Sharma, a three-time MP.

This victory underscored his ability to connect with a diverse voter base. He had previously served as an MLC and as NC's Provincial President since 2009.

After the abrogation of Article 370, Rana became a vocal advocate for the Jammu Declaration, calling for statehood restoration specifically for the Jammu region. His stance clashed with the People's Alliance for Gupkar Declaration, a coalition seeking the restoration of Article 370 and statehood for the entire Jammu and Kashmir region.

In October 2021, after more than two decades with the NC, Rana resigned and joined the BJP. His deep roots in the Jammu region and close connections with local communities made him a prominent figure in J&K politics, particularly for the BJP. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

अनिल कुंबले की नेटवर्थ जानकर रह जाएंगे हैरान, करते हैं करोड़ों की कमाई

Anil Kumble Net Worth: क्रिकेट से संन्यास लेने के बाद भी अनिल कुबले के पास पैसों की कमी नहीं है. वह आईपीएल में टीम की कोचिंग, ब्रांड एंडोर्समेंट और कॉमेंट्री करके करोड़ों की कमाई कर रहे हैं.

Pant And DC Part Ways Ahead Of IPL Retention Over 'Captaincy': Report

Rishabh Pant, the country's No.1 wicketkeeper-batter, is all set to enter the IPL 2025 auction, according to a report. Ahead of the IPL 2025 retention deadline day on October 31,  it has been claimed that Rishabh Pant won't be retained by his franchise Delhi Capitals. Pant, after recovering from a major accident, made a return to the IPL last season. He has been a consistent feature in the Indian cricket team as well. The report, however, said that DC management was not convinced about the leadership qualities of Pant in T20. 

"Rishabh Pant wanted captaincy, wanted to be involved with regards to appointment of coaches and support staff but plenty in the DC set-up are not convinced about his T20 game. It wasn't that they wanted to let him go but they were clear that they didn't see him leading the side. And that decision wasn't an overnight one," the report in Times of India quoted a source as saying.

"Axar Patel is there as an option but there is a strong possibility of DC exploring options at the mega auction. Plenty of captaincy options are set to enter the mega auction so wait and watch is going to be the right way forward for DC. Shreyas Iyer will definitely be on their radar as he enjoyed a lot of success in the DC set-up and understands the set-up well. A very exciting set of players have been retained and a solid squad can be built around these names." 

If Pant indeed enters the IPL auction, it would start a bidding war, according to former India player Aakash Chopra.

"It's being heard that Rishabh Pant might be available at the auction. He is a keeper-batter. Although the jury is out, many people say his numbers in T20s are not that good, had only one breakthrough season in the IPL and hasn't scored too many runs apart from that. I can give you in writing that the bank would be broken if his name comes in the auction," Chopra said on his YouTube channel.

"RCB need a keeper, a batter, and maybe a captain. Punjab would need him as they won't have anyone. Delhi would need him back, the RTM card would be available. KKR also need him. What about CSK, they would also need him. If Ishan Kishan is left out, Mumbai would also need him.

"Why would LSG not be interested even if they retain Nicholas Pooran? Everyone apart from Rajasthan would need him. Gujarat will also need him. They don't have a keeper. So overall, Rishabh Pant will get a lot of money. He might go for Rs 25-30 crore."

China Launches 3 Astronauts To Tiangong Space Station In "Dream" Mission

Three Chinese astronauts including the country's only woman spaceflight engineer blasted off on a "dream" mission to the Tiangong space station in the early hours of Wednesday.

The new Tiangong team will carry out experiments with an eye to the space programme's ambitious goal of placing astronauts on the Moon by 2030 and eventually constructing a lunar base.

The Shenzhou-19 mission took off with its trio of space explorers at 4:27 am (2027 GMT Tuesday) from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, state news agency Xinhua and state broadcaster CCTV reported.

Congratulations to the successful launch of #Shenzhou19 crewed spaceship🚀 and wish the 3 astronauts all the best! #SpaceChina pic.twitter.com/v26V0pAExK

— CAI Run 蔡润 (@AmbCaiRun) October 29, 2024

Among the crew is Wang Haoze, 34, who is China's only female spaceflight engineer, according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA). She is the third Chinese woman to take part in a crewed mission.

The space agency deemed the launch a "complete success", Xinhua said.

"Like everyone else, I dream of going to the space station to have a look," Wang told a media gathering Tuesday alongside her fellow crew members, lined up behind podiums and tall panes of glass to seal them off from the public.

"I want to meticulously complete each task and protect our home in space," she said.

"I also want to travel in deep space and wave at the stars."

Headed by Cai Xuzhe, the team will return to Earth in late April or early May next year, CMSA Deputy Director Lin Xiqiang said at a separate press event confirming the launch.

Cai, a 48-year-old former air force pilot, brings experience from a previous stint aboard Tiangong as part of the Shenzhou-14 mission in 2022.

"Having been selected for the new crew, taking on a new role, facing new tasks and new challenges, I feel the honour of my mission with a great responsibility," said Cai.

The aerospace veteran added that the crew was now "fully prepared mentally, technically, physically and psychologically" for the mission ahead.

Completing the astronaut lineup is 34-year-old man Song Lingdong.

The crew currently aboard the Tiangong space station is scheduled to return to Earth on November 4 after completing handover procedures with the incoming astronauts, Lin said.

'Space dream'

China has ramped up plans to achieve its "space dream" under President Xi Jinping.

Its space programme was the third to put humans in orbit and has also landed robotic rovers on Mars and the Moon.

Crewed by teams of three astronauts that are rotated every six months, the Tiangong space station is the programme's crown jewel.

Beijing says it is on track to send a crewed mission to the Moon by 2030, where it intends to construct a base on the lunar surface.

The Shenzhou-19 crew's time aboard Tiangong will see them carry out various experiments, including some involving "bricks" made from components imitating lunar soil, CCTV reported.

These items -- to be delivered to Tiangong by the Tianzhou-8 cargo ship in November -- will be tested to see how they fare in extreme radiation, gravity, temperature and other conditions.

Due to the high cost of transporting materials into space, Chinese scientists hope to be able to use lunar soil for the construction of the future base, CCTV reported.

The Shenzhou-19 mission is primarily about "accumulating additional experience", Jonathan McDowell, an astronomer at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics in the United States, told AFP.

While this particular swap of astronaut crews and upcoming six-month stint aboard Tiangong may not witness major breakthroughs or feats, it is still "very valuable to do", said McDowell.

China has in recent decades injected billions of dollars into developing an advanced space programme on par with the United States and Europe.

In 2019, China successfully landed its Chang'e-4 probe on the far side of the moon -- the first spacecraft ever to do so. In 2021, it landed a small robot on Mars.

Tiangong, whose core module launched in 2021, is planned to be used for about 10 years.c

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Doomsday Arctic Vault, The World's Backup Gene Bank, Sees Surge In Samples

An Arctic seed vault on Norway's Spitsbergen island received new samples last week from the largest number of depositors since 2020, reflecting fear about the threat of conflict and climate change to food security, a custodian of the facility said recently.

The Svalbard Global Seed Vault, set deep inside a mountain to withstand disasters from nuclear war to global warming, was launched in 2008 as a backup for the world's gene banks that store the genetic code for thousands of plant species.

Billed as a doomsday vault protected by permafrost, the deposit has received samples from across the world, and played a leading role between 2015 and 2019 in rebuilding seed collections damaged during the war in Syria.

"Climate change and conflict threaten infrastructure and impact food security for over 700 million people in more than 75 countries worldwide," Executive Director Stefan Schmitz of the Crop Trust said in a statement.

Among the new desposits, Bolivia's first contribution to the vault was made by the 400-year-old Universidad Mayor Real y Pontificia de San Francisco Xavier de Chuquisaca, and assembled by some 125 farming families from local communities.

"This deposit goes beyond conserving crops; it's about protecting our culture," the project coordinator of the Norway-funded Biodiversity for Opportunities, Livelihoods, and Development in Bolivia said in a statement.

Chad, another newcomer, deposited 1,145 samples of sesame, rice, maize and sorghum - all adapted to the country's climate and crucial for developing crops that can withstand rising temperatures and erratic rainfall.

The total of more than 30,000 new samples from 21 countries, also included seeds of vegetables, legumes and herbs from the Union of Agricultural Work Committees in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Located on a sparsely populated island halfway between mainland Europe and the North Pole, the vault's chambers are only opened two or three times a year to limit exposure to the outside world.
 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

CEO Challenges Job Applicants With 3-Second Brain Teaser During Interviews

Brain teasers are widely enjoyed for their ability to stimulate the mind and keep it sharp. A recent Reddit post drew significant attention and sparked a lively discussion among users. The post, shared by Reddit user Back4breakfast, featured a screenshot from Dino Dionne, CEO of Genesis Capital Group.

Mr Dionne revealed that he poses a brain teaser to every job candidate during interviews. He said, "If you want the #Job, you have 3 seconds to give the correct answer. You wouldn't believe the excuses I've heard from people who either gave the wrong answer or couldn't answer at all! My 6-year-old solved it in 30 seconds."

The brain teaser presented was a mathematical expression: 3*3-3/3+3, labelled as "Only for Genius." This simple yet tricky equation has since become a hot topic across social media. 

Since the post's upload, it has received over 2.8k likes and generated more than 3.1k comments.

See the viral post here:

If you're able to work out this sum, you have a job! Simples!
byu/Back4breakfast inLinkedInLunatics

A user wrote, "Not knowing basic maths will get you all sorts of answers. I can't help but think of someone who gave the correct answer (11, if my quick look wasn't wrong) and were told "no, it's 1" mid-interview. Like, "is this a test? are you testing what I'll do when my boss is wrong about something? or are you just an idiot?"

Another user commented, "How low is the bar to work at that guy's company? I wish the technical questions asked of me in interviews amounted to 3rd grade math problems."

The third user wrote, "I can't believe I didn't get this right! How did I miss the order of operations?"

The fourth user commented, "Honestly, it's a bit unfair to give this under pressure- who can think clearly in 3 seconds?"

The fifth user wrote, "Oh look! It's Facebook but from 2010!"

BJP MP Tejasvi Surya Completes Ironman Challenge. PM Modi Reacts

BJP MP Tejasvi Surya completed the Ironman 70.3 challenge today. The triathlon challenge that was held in Goa comprised 1.9 km of swimming, 90 km of cycling, and 21.1 km of running with the participants travelling up to 113 kilometres (or 70.3 miles) during the whole event. With the feat, the 33-year-old became the first parliamentarian to participate in the event.

The Bengaluru South MP credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Fit India' movement as the inspiration that led him to take up the challenge. The achievement drew praise from PM Modi himself who wrote on X, "Commendable feat! I am sure this will inspire many more youngsters to pursue fitness-related activities".

Mr Surya said he trained rigorously over the last four months to improve his fitness.

"As a young nation chasing big ambitions, we must nurture our physical fitness and become a more healthier nation. An endeavour to become fit also makes you more disciplined and confident, which improves chances of your success in any venture that you undertake," he posted on X.

Commendable feat!

I am sure this will inspire many more youngsters to pursue fitness related activities. https://t.co/zDTC0RtHL7

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 27, 2024

"As a finisher in this daunting challenge, I can attest to the young folks that fitness goals really push your boundaries, and make you a better individual. I appeal all fence sitters and perpetual planners to hop onto this journey and make progress," he added.

In 2022, Tejasvi Surya participated in the Ironman 70.3 Goa as part of a relay team, completing the 90 km cycling segment.

The premier event for athletes and fitness enthusiasts has attracted athletes from more than 50 countries. This year's race also featured over 120 competitors from Central and State Government services, with women making up 12-15 per cent of the athlete base. Remarkably, over 60 per cent of this year's participants are first-time competitors, underscoring the event's significant role in expanding the triathlon community in India.

अफगानिस्तान के युवा 'लड़ाकों' ने रचा इतिहास, फाइनल में श्रीलंका को दी मात

Emerging Asia Cup: अफगानिस्तान ने श्रीलंका को हराकर इमर्जिंग टीम एशिया कप खिताब जीत लिया है. अफगान की युवा टीम ने फाइनल में श्रीलंका को 7 विकेट से हराया. अफगानिस्तान की यह पहली खिताबी जीत है. उसने सेमीफाइनल में इंडिया ए टीम को हराकर खिताबी मुकाबले में प्रवेश किया था जबकि श्रीलंका ने पाकिस्तान को हराकर अंतिम 4 में जगह बनाई थी.

Jharkhand Minister Charged For 'Derogatory Remarks' Against Sita Soren

Jharkhand Additional Chief Electoral Officer Neha Arora on Saturday said that an FIR has been registered against Jharkhand Minister Irfan Ansari for allegedly making derogatory remarks about BJP leader Sita Soren in Jamtara district.

"An FIR has been registered in Jamtara district for violating MCC (model code of conduct) provisions. A strict advisory has also been issued to all the political parties in this regard," Neha Arora said.

Union Minister Annapurna Devi said the statement made by Irfan Ansari exposes the mentality of the Congress party.

"He (Irfan Ansari) has given a very wrong statement on Sita Soren. This exposes the mentality of the Congress party. The Congress party is anti-women and anti-youth...I condemn this statement...Will Rahul Gandhi take back the tickets given to people with such a low level of thinking? The Congress party should remove such people from the cabinet," Annapurna Devi said.

Sita Soren said she was unable to understand how people like Mr Ansari get the courage to make such statements.

"I am unable to understand where he gets the courage to make such statements. Who is giving him the courage to make such statements, because no one has ever made such statements against me in Jharkhand...The party has informed the Election Commission about his statement. We will not forgive him...The entire tribal population is angry," the BJP leader said.

Another BJP leader, Ragini Singh, said insulting women is the policy of the Congress party.

"This is his mentality. It is the policy of Congress to comment on a woman but BJP policy is to respect all the women whether they are from the Congress or the BJP," Ms Singh said.

Irfan Ansari, the Congress candidate from the Jamtara constituency, stirred controversy with his remarks about Sita Soren, his opponent from the seat.

On Friday, Sita Soren posted a video on X, claiming that the Congress leader referred to her as "rejected" and a "borrowed player" while responding to a journalist's question about competing against her in the upcoming election.

The BJP leader also demanded an apology from Mr Ansari for using "indecent language" against her, stating that the public would respond to him.

"Congress @INCIndia candidate Irfan Ansari must apologise for the indecent language he used against me in front of the media immediately after filing his nomination. He has previously made personal comments about me, but this time he has crossed all limits. Irfan ji @IrfanAnsariMLA, apologise, or be prepared for fierce opposition," she posted on X.

"The indecent words you used while holding such a respected position have alarmed women across society. If you can use such words for me, what must poor and vulnerable women face? As long as such leaders remain in power, women will remain unsafe. The time has come to remove them from power. The way you look at women is now before the public, and the public will respond," the BJP leader added.

The BJP will contest the upcoming Jharkhand assembly elections in alliance with the All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU), Janata Dal (United), and Lok Janshakti Party (LJP). The BJP will contest 68 seats, AJSU 10, JDU two, and the LJP from one seat.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

"You Need To Score": Rohit SAnd Co. Delivered Strong Message By Management

The batters' constant failure in making runs in the first innings is costing the team dear, admitted bowling coach Morne Morkel even as India are in danger of losing the first Test series at home since 2012-13. After getting bundled out for an abysmal 46 in the first innings of the opening Test, India were skittled out for a mere 156 in the first essay of second Test in Pune on Friday as New Zealand took firm control of the match. "I never like to have a punch up between batters and bowlers but, in Test match cricket you need to score the first innings runs," Morkel told the media during the post-day press meet.

"If we put our hand up, we haven't been able to do that. There are world class players in our batting line up. I know that individually, they've got their processes and they know how to go about those things," he added.

Morkel hoped to see a better outing from Indian batters in the second innings.

“Hopefully, we can iron those mistakes out because it's costing us at the moment — not getting the runs on the board — but I'm pretty sure there's enough experience, enough knowledge amongst them to rectify that,” he added.

“I back the team (to come up) with a strong response in our second innings. I'm excited to see how they bounce back and how they play this situation and the conditions,” he said.

Morkel said India will have to maintain belief and back their knowledge of the conditions to avert losing the match and the series.

"We have to believe. This game is a funny game. Our guys are attacking players, there's guys that know these conditions well. Our talk before this game was that we are masters in these conditions, we know how to sum these conditions up,” he said.

“Let's be honest, it's going to be a tough task. But what an opportunity for somebody to really inspire and put in a fighting and a top performance — that's the way I see it.

“When conditions are tricky and tough you'll see real people stand up and fight and if we show that fight and somebody gets the momentum going in these conditions, you never know,” he said.

Morkel said the hosts wanted to see off the overs on Day One when they reached 16/1 in 11 overs and then find momentum on Day Two.

“I think they (New Zealand) bowled very well in partnership. Watching from the outside, it was very hard for us to rotate strike, to keep the scoreboard ticking,” he said.

“In these sort of conditions where the ball is turning and asking a lot of questions, it is important to do that.

"The pace that (Mitchell) Santner bowled today in particular, was spot on for this surface. On Day Two, arriving here this morning being one down, our camp was very confident that we were going to bat big but unfortunately we just couldn't get that momentum going,” he added.

Morkel praised New Zealand for coming to this tour well-prepared.

“I must give credit to New Zealand. The way they've adapted to conditions, the way they've sort of blocked out what is in front of them and just played the game, it's been incredible so far in this series,” he said.

“Definitely in Bangalore and here, playing those sessions, playing those important moments they've done it better than us at the moment.” “And that's one of the reasons why they're on top of this game at the moment. They're creating pressure with the ball. They're putting our bowlers under pressure by sweeping and reverse-sweeping well.

“They're a team that plans well, they go into tours and really leave no stone unturned so I'm not surprised by the way they're playing at the moment,” he added.

रमनदीप की आतिशी पारी बेकार, भारत को हराकर अफगानिस्तान फाइनल में पहुंचा

Emerging Asia Cup: इमर्जिंग टीम एशिया कप के सेमीफाइनल में इंडिया ए टीम को हार का सामना करना पड़ा. अफगानिस्तान ए ने भारतीय टीम को हाई स्कोरिंग मैच में भारत को 20 रन से हराया. फाइनल श्रीलंका और अफगानिस्तान के बीच खेला जाएगा. श्रीलंका ने पाकिस्तान को हराकर फाइनल में जगह बनाई.

156.7 Kmph Pacer To Play In Place Of Shami? Australia Great's Big Advice

Mayank Yadav should be on the plane to Australia if Mohammed Shami is not available for selection, asserted Brett Lee, one of the most devastatingly destructive bowlers, who has high hopes from the Indian pace sensation on the true, bouncy wickets Down Under. Aiming to qualify for a third successive World Test Championship (WTC) final, India will be travelling to Australia next month to defend the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and doubts remain over seasoned seamer Shami's selection in the squad for the five-match Test series. "I can tell you that batters are okay when you bowl that 135-140 kmph speed, but when you bowl high 150s, I don't care who it is, no one wants to face that."

"He looks like someone who is a complete package, if Mohammed Shami is not ready, at least get him (Mayank) in the squad. I think he would do pretty well on these Australian wickets," Lee told Fox Cricket.

Shami has not played since featuring in the final of the ODI World Cup last November, and even though he went full tilt at the nets recently, India skipper Rohit Sharma is averse to taking an "undercooked" version of the seamer to Australia.

Former Aussie pacer Lee knows a thing or two about batters' discomfort while standing up to express pace.

Lee said, "The great thing is with me that I get to work on the IPL and see a lot of good young Indian cricketers. Mayank Yadav, to watch his first IPL game recently, hit 157 kmph first up in his first game.

"Unfortunately, his franchise probably brought him a little early and he did his side again.

"They put him in cotton wool for a bit. The great thing about India is that they are not worried about how much cricket someone has played or hasn't played, if he is ready to go, get him in there. I actually love that theory," Lee added.

India boast of a world-class bowling attack that can trouble the Australian batters in their own den, and Lee acknowledged that.

"Ashwin is approaching 600 wickets, he has got that beautiful shape when he bowls spin. He can bowl with the new ball as well but I think if India have to win there, then Shami (provided he is fit) can definitely hold the key.

"Jasprit Bumrah, we all know how good he is, he can bowl both ways, he is a great exponent of reverse swing. Mohammed Siraj knows how to make the new ball talk.

"On wickets like Perth, Adelaide, for me it's the combination, these three fast bowlers with Ashwin as the spinner. Then they have got options with guys like who are part-time spinners. But you need to have those three quicks firing if India wants to win," Lee said.

'India don't want to bow down'

Lee described the Indian team as a "powerhouse that don't want to bow down" to anyone, cautioning his compatriots who will take on the Asian giants from November 22.

Lee's remarks came after India's eight-wicket defeat to New Zealand in the Bengaluru Test earlier this week.

"This day and age, India is a powerhouse that don't want to bow down. They know how to win, and they know they can beat Australia; they know they can beat the Kiwis. They know they can beat anyone on any given day," Lee said.

Commenting on India's outing in the Bengaluru Test against the Kiwis, Lee felt that they might have got influenced by 'Bazball', leading to playing some loose shots.

"India just didn't go into their shell. Maybe it's Bazball brushing off on other cricketers around the world," he noted.

"I know that India won't be proud of the way they played. They played some pretty loose shots." India's decision to bat first in overcast conditions raised eyebrows, as the team was bowled out for 46 in the first innings of the opening Test, its lowest Test score at home.

Lee said the side needs to "weigh up the risk factor" and added the Indians should have judged the conditions better.

"But, you've got to weigh up the risk factor as well. There are times when you've got to go, 'Okay, well, maybe the big shots aren't working today'.

"Maybe, just rein it in a little bit. I don't think they sort of summed up the conditions as quickly as what they should have done," Lee said.

India play two more Tests against New Zealand -- Pune (October 24-28) and Mumbai (November 1-5) -- before leaving for Australia.

"BRICS Is For The Fairies Until China, India Get Serious," Says Mr 'BRICS'

The idea of the BRICS group ever challenging the US dollar is for the fairies as long as China and India remain so divided and refuse to cooperate on trade, the former Goldman Sachs economist who came up with the BRIC acronym told Reuters.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is using the summit of BRICS leaders to show that Western attempts to isolate Russia over the Ukraine war have failed and that Russia is building ties with the rising powers of Asia.

Then-Goldman Sachs chief economist Jim O'Neill introduced the term BRIC in 2001 in a research paper that underlined the massive growth potential of Brazil, Russia, India and China - and the need to reform global governance to include them.

"The idea that the BRICS can be some genuine global economic club, it's obviously a bit out there with the fairies in the same way that the G7 can be, and it's very disturbing that they see themselves as some kind of alternative global thing, because it's obviously not feasible," O'Neill told Reuters.

"It seems to me basically to be a symbolic annual gathering where important emerging countries, particularly noisy ones like Russia, but also China, can basically get together and highlight how good it is to be part of something that doesn't involve the US and that global governance isn't good enough."

O'Neill, who admitted he would "have Mr BRICS stamped on my forehead forever", said the BRICS as a group had achieved very little over the past 15 years.

He added that it was not possible to solve truly global issues without the United States and Europe - just as it was not possible for the West to solve truly global issues without China, India and, to a lesser extent, Russia and Brazil.

The BRICS group grew out of meetings between Russia, India and China which then began to meet more formally, eventually adding Brazil, then South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates. Saudi Arabia has yet to formally join.

The group now accounts for 45 per cent of the world's population and 35 per cent of its economy, based on purchasing power parity, though China accounts for more than half of its economic might.

Putin opened the summit on Wednesday by saying that more than 30 states had expressed interest in joining the group but that it was important to strike a balance in any expansion.

Bringing in more members into BRICS would make achieving anything even harder, O'Neill said.

Dollar challenge?

Russia is seeking to convince BRICS countries to build an alternative platform for international payments that would be immune to Western sanctions.

O'Neill, 67, said people had been talking about alternatives to the dollar since he started out in finance but that none of the countries with the potential to challenge the dollar had done anything to seriously do so.

Any BRICS currency, he said, would be heavily dependent on China while Russia and Brazil would not be significant parts of it, he said.

"If they wanted to be really serious about economic matters, why don't they genuinely pursue less tariff based trade between each other?" O'Neill said.

"I will take the BRICS group seriously when I see signs that the two countries that really matter - China and India - are actually really trying to agree on things, rather than effectively trying to confront each other all the time."

India has tried to curb Chinese investments in the country since a decades old border dispute erupted into a clash between border guards in 2020. The two countries pledged to enhance cooperation on Wednesday in their first formal talks in five years.

Chinese President Xi Jinping told Putin the international situation was gripped by chaos but that Beijing's strategic partnership with Moscow was a force for stability amid the most significant changes seen in a century.

O'Neill said the G20 had failed to become a sinew of truly global governance because the United States and China had both turned inwards since the middle of the last decade. BRICS, he said, lacked clear objectives and should take on major issues for humanity - such as finding vaccines or drugs against infectious diseases, or fighting climate change.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

"Gaaliyan De Rahe...": Pak Star Blasted By Compatriot For Abhishek Send-off

The Indian cricket team's performance at the ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup has been great. With victories against Pakistan and UAE, the Tilak Varma-led team are in the semi-final. Stars like Abhishek Sharma, Ramandeep Singh and others have been performing well. In the match against Pakistan, a face-off between India's star batter Abhishek Sharma and Pakistan spinner Sufiyan Muqeem hogged limelight. Openers Abhishek and Prabhsimran took India off to a flying start against by scoring 68 runs in the powerplay. Pakistan then brought left-arm spinner Muqeem into the attack and he struck on the very first ball. While a celebration from Pakistan was quite obvious, Muqeem incited Abhishek by giving him a fiery send-off.

The celebration did not go down well former Pakistan cricket team player captain Basit Ali.  

"The cricket was top-class, but one thing that really upset me was what happened after Sufiyan Muqeem and Abhishek Sharma. Bahut badi zyatti hui hai. If Basit Ali was sitting in the dugout or was the team manager, I would have told Sufiyan, "Beta Samaan uthaye aur wapas jaye (Son, pick up your things and go back).' You haven't even played proper cricket for Pakistan yet, and you're already using abusive language. What kind of behaviour is this?” Basit Ali said on his YouTube channel.

"Then you see Abbas Afridi, when his ball hit the batter, he went on to check on him. Aap gaaliyan de rahe hai, kya aapne hat-trick leliya (You're hurling abuses — did you take a hat-trick or something)? You're not at that level yet. The management needs to teach young players how to respect the opposition."

Basit Ali on extravagance aggression of young Pakistani bowler towards Abhishek Sharma : pic.twitter.com/fZkYsvhHn1

— Nikhil Bishnoi (@Nikhilgodara4) October 22, 2024

After opting to bat first, India A posted a solid total of 183 for 8 in 20 overs at Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman. Tilak top-scored with 44 off 35, while Prabhsimran Singh (36 off 19) and Abhishek (35 off 22) also played crucial cameos.

India scored 68 runs in the first powerplay but the introduction of spinners brought Pakistan back in the game. Despite getting blows at regular intervals, India managed to post a solid total on the board. Sufiyan Muqeem was the pick of the bowlers for Pakistan with figures of 2 for 28.

In reply, Pakistan fought really well and even dominated the match at certain stages but India's remarkable comeback handed the Tilak Varma-led side a well-deserved victory. Anshul Kamboj was the top wicket-taker for India with figures of 3 for 33. Rasikh Dar Salam and Nishant Sindhu also picked two wickets each.

"Delhi Can Play A Part": Iran President Meets PM Modi Over West Asia Crisis

With the conflict in West Asia escalating significantly after Israel and Iran threatened each other of an endless series of retaliations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Russia on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in the city of Kazan.

India has expressed "deep concern" over the current situation in West Asia and has been calling for "dialogue and diplomacy" to de-escalate the tension in the region also known as the Middle East.

The meeting between the two leaders came amid the year-long Israel-Hamas war and the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, and after Iran's ballistic missile offensive against Israel led to Tel Aviv vowing a massive retaliation.

INDIA'S ATTEMPT TO BROKER PEACE

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasised the need for peace in the region and the "role that New Delhi could play in de-escalating the Middle East crisis," given its good relations with all the parties involved.

India, which has friendly relations with almost all nations, finds itself in a unique position to be able to mediate between Israel and Iran. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had spoken with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu three weeks ago and has met the Iranian President today.

This is not the only case where New Delhi is trying to broker peace between conflicting sides. PM Modi is also trying to broker a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine which have been at war since 2022. Here too, Prime Minister Modi shares a strong bond with both Vladimir Putin and Ukraine's Zelenskyy.

PM Modi has visited Russia twice in three months and went to Ukraine as well in this period. He also reportedly sent a "peace plan" for President Putin last month when National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met the Russian President in Moscow.

CHABAHAR PORT AND INST CORRIDOR

During the meeting PM Modi and President Pezeshkian also discussed the India-Iran bilateral ties and ways to strengthen it. Among several key areas of cooperation, the two leaders discussed strategic projects like the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor or INSTC.

After the meeting, PM Modi shared a post on social media platform X, in which he wrote "Had a very good meeting with the President of Iran, Mr. Masoud Pezeshkian. We reviewed the full range of relations between our countries. We also discussed ways to deepen ties in futuristic sectors." He shared the same post in Persian too.

WHAT MORE WAS DISCUSSED

The Ministry of External Affairs gave more details about what the two leaders discussed, as Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri held a press briefing in which he said that PM Modi and President Pezeshkian held "fruitful discussions", adding that "Both the leaders discussed the situation in West Asia. Prime Minister Modi expressed his deep concern over the escalating conflict and reiterated India's call for the protection of civilians and the prevention of harm to civilians. He emphasised the need for dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate the tensions."

Mr Misri further said that "President Pezeshkian emphasised the need for peace and harmony in the region and the role that India could play in de-escalating the conflict given its good relations with all the parties involved."

The foreign secretary went on to say that PM Modi congratulated President Pezeshkian on his electoral victory and also welcomed Iran to the BRICS forum, which it has joined officially from this year.

Speaking about the millenia-old ties between the two countries, the foreign secretary said, "Both leaders emphasised the shared historical and civilisational ties between the two countries and discussed ways to further strengthen cooperation."

"The discussion focused on key areas of cooperation, particularly the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) which are crucial for enhancing regional connectivity and economic partnership," Mr Misri said.

REDEVELOPMENT OF AFGHANISTAN

In a statement about the bilateral talks, the Ministry of External Affairs said in its statement that the two leaders noted that "The signing of the long-term contract of Chabahar Port is an important milestone in bilateral relations."

It further stated that the two leaders reaffirmed its significance for reconstruction and redevelopment of Afghanistan and enhancing trade and economic linkages with Central Asia."

INDIA'S SUPPORT TO IRAN

President Pezeshkian acknowledged India's role in Iran's accession to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO and BRICS forums. "They agreed to continue their cooperation in various international forums," the foreign secretary said at the press briefing.

The foreign ministry said that "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited Iranian President Pezeshkian to visit India at an early date," adding that "President Pezeshkian has accepted the invitation."

This was their first meeting after Mr Pezeshkian became President of Iran in July. He succeeded President Ebrahim Raisi, who died in a helicopter crash in May.
 

India, Pakistan Renew Kartarpur Corridor Agreement For 5 More Years, But...

Days after External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to Pakistan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO meeting, India and Pakistan on Tuesday agreed to renew the agreement on the Kartarpur corridor for another five years. However, the issue of Islamabad charging a fee of $20 per pilgrim, per visit still persists.

Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, often called just Kartarpur Sahib, is one of the holiest shrines for Sikhs. That is because Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak Dev preached there during the last eighteen years of his life.

After Partition of India in 1947, Kartarpur Sahib fell on the Pakistan side of the International Border. With India being the home for more than 95 per cent of all Sikhs globally, pilgrims from all over India always demanded access to go to Kartarpur Sahib, which is in Shakargarh Tehsil, Narowal District, in Pakistan's Punjab Province.

On October 24, 2019, India and Pakistan signed an agreement to facilitate the visit of pilgrims from India to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur through the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor. This was initially signed for a period of five years. This has now been renewed for another 5-year term.

"It has been agreed between India and Pakistan through diplomatic channels to extend the validity of the Agreement on Sri Kartarpur Sahib Corridor for a further period of five years," the Ministry of External Affairs said.

"Extension of the validity of this agreement will ensure uninterrupted operation of the Corridor for use by the pilgrims from India to visit the holy Gurdwara in Pakistan," it added.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also posted about it on social media platform X, writing "India and Pakistan have renewed the agreement on Sri Kartarpur Sahib Corridor for the next five years. PM @narendramodi's government will continue to facilitate our Sikh community's access to their holy sites."

During his recent 24-hour visit to Pakistan for the SCO Summit, Mr Jaishankar held no bilateral meeting with his Pakistani counterpart, nor was there any official meeting. He however, greeted the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, when the latter welcomed him to a state dinner organised of all SCO delegates. Mr Jaishankar also reportedly had a brief exchange of greetings with his counterpart Ishaq Dar at the official dinner. However, no official talks were held and no note takers were present either.

FEE WAIVER REQUEST

Pakistan has been levying a fee of $20 per pilgrim, per visit for them to visit the holy shrine. Devotees from India have been urging the Government of India to try and get this fee waived by Islamabad. However, there has been no breakthrough in this regard.

"In view of the continued requests of the pilgrims regarding the removal of USD 20 service charge levied by Pakistan per pilgrim per visit, India has once again urged Pakistan to not levy any fee or charges on the pilgrims," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in its statement.

Video: Priyanka Gandhi's Meet And Greet In Wayanad Day Before Nomination

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was seen meeting residents of Wayanad this evening, a day before marking her electoral debut by filing her nomination for the bypoll in the Lok Sabha constituency.

Ms Vadra was greeted warmly by locals and she was seen shaking hands with people, asking their names and clicking selfies with them.

She also visited a local family in Wayanad. "Her hearty visit was greeted joyously by the locals and the mother of the house presented her with a rosary, which she used for years, as a symbol of her love & blessings," the Congress party posted on X.

Congress General Secretary Smt. @priyankagandhi ji made a heartwarming visit to a local family in Wayanad on her way to Sultan Bathery.

Her hearty visit was greeted joyously by the locals and the mother of the house presented her with a rosary, which she used for years, as a… pic.twitter.com/jndddaKJwL

— Congress (@INCIndia) October 22, 2024

Both Priyanka and veteran Congress leader and her mother Sonia Gandhi reached Wayanad by road after landing at Mysore airport where they were greeted by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar.

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, chief ministers of other Congress-ruled states and various senior party leaders are expected to reach the hill district ahead of the roadshow which will be held at Kalpetta on Wednesday morning prior to the filing of nomination.

On Tuesday, Rahul Gandhi - who won the seat in Lok Sabha polls but vacated it to hold on to the family constituency Raebareli - said that his sister will emerge as a passionate champion of Wayanad's needs and a powerful voice in Parliament.

"The people of Wayanad hold a special place in my heart, and I can't imagine a better representative for them than my sister, Priyanka Gandhi. I'm confident she will be a passionate champion of Wayanad's needs and a powerful voice in Parliament. Join us tomorrow, 23rd October, as she files her nomination for the Wayanad Lok Sabha constituency. Together, let's ensure Wayanad continues to be represented with love," Rahul Gandhi wrote on X.

The CPI has fielded veteran former legislator Sathyan Mokeri who finished a close third during the 2014 General Elections in Wayanad while the BJP has brought in Kozhikode Corporation Councilor Navya Haridas, a former software engineer who quit her job and entered full-time politics.

Internet Reacts To Israel's Claim Of Yahya Sinwar's Wife's Rs 26 Lakh Bag

Days after Yahya Sinwar was killed in an Israeli operation in southern Gaza, a video has surfaced showing the Hamas leader, along with his wife and children, moving through a tunnel the night before the October 7 attack on Israel last year.

The CCTV footage, released by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), captures Sinwar and his group carrying various supplies, including pillows, mattresses, a television, and several bags, into the tunnel.

In the clip, Sinwar's wife is seen holding a bag, which Israel claimed to be worth $32,000 (around Rs 26.90 lakh).

"Sinwar's wife was caught on camera sneaking into the tunnels the night before October 7, clutching a $32,000 Hermes Birkin bag! While Gazans faced hardships under Hamas, Sinwar and his family shamelessly lived in luxury, indulging while sending others to fight," Israel stated.

Lieutenant Colonel Avichay Adraee, the IDF's Arabic language spokesperson, reiterated this claim, highlighting the contrast between the opulent lifestyle of Sinwar's family and the poverty experienced by most residents of Gaza, who "struggle to afford basic necessities."

However, internet users were quick to criticize these claims. Many on X pointed out that the bag was not a "Birkin," accusing Israel of spreading false information.

They are not stupid, they know that's not a Birkin, but they're pandering to an audience of evil, delusional beings who are willing to believe anything Israel says so they can continue their support without feelings of guilt bc the ppl they're murdering somehow deserve it. https://t.co/GZXsm1hx9O

— Rebecca Sevilla (@rebeccasev7) October 20, 2024

A user wrote, "They are not stupid, they know that's not a Birkin, but they're pandering to an audience of evil, delusional beings who are willing to believe anything Israel says so they can continue their support without feelings of guilt bc the ppl they're murdering somehow deserve it."

Another user commented, "Even someone with zero fashion sense knows this bag ain't no Hermes, not even close. How's the official Israel account gonna mess that up? Y'all are embarrassing yourselves out here."

"Haha such a lame propaganda to come up with, The oceans of the world are gonna dry up but your lies are never ending," the third user remarked. 

"Desperately clutching at straws. It's not a Birkin. And it's hilarious to see this coming from an official state account. You're neck and neck with old Katzy for the weirdest official account propaganda posts prize," the fourth user commented. 

"Isn't it embarrassing when an official account representing a state posts desperate propaganda? The world is laughing at you," the fifth user wrote. 

ये खेल आपको नीचे गिराएगा, ऊपर उठाएगा और फिर... हार के बाद छलका खिलाड़ी का दर्द

न्यूजीलैंड के हाथों पहले टेस्ट मैच में हार के बाद विकेटकीपर ऋषभ पंत का दर्द छलक उठा है. पंत ने फैंस से वादा किया है कि टीम इंडिया आगामी दूसरे और तीसरे टेस्ट मैच में मजबूत वापसी करेगी. पंत ने कहा कि यह खेल आपको उपर ले जाएगा, नीचे गिराएगा भी. क्योंकि ये इस खेला का हिस्सा है. इसलिए हमें धैर्य बनाए रखने की जरूरत है. हम वापसी करना जानते हैं.

India Should Be On UN Security Council Permanently: Russia's Top Diplomat

Russia's top diplomat has said that his country believes that India, Brazil and African countries should be represented in the UN Security Council on a permanent basis to ensure the representativeness of the global majority, state-owned TASS news agency reported on Sunday.

"Countries such as India, Brazil, as well as representatives of Africa should have been on a permanent basis in the Security Council for a long time. This is necessary to ensure representativeness, representation of the global majority," Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told aif.ru. in an interview, TASS reported.

India has been at the forefront of years-long efforts calling for reform of the Security Council, including expansion in both its permanent and non-permanent categories, saying the 15-nation Council, founded in 1945, is not fit for purpose in the 21st Century and does not reflect contemporary geo-political realities. Delhi has underscored that it deserves a permanent seat at the horse-shoe table.

Last month, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer joined US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron in backing India's bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

India last sat at the UN high table as a non-permanent member in 2021-22. There has been a growing demand to increase the number of permanent members to reflect the contemporary global reality. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Raise A Glass To International Gin And Tonic Day With These G and T Recipes

A gin and tonic is a classic, refreshing summer cocktail-so classic that the combination is over 100 years old. It has a crisp, slightly bitter flavour and is quite easy to make. A classic G and T cocktail is made with gin and tonic water poured over a large amount of ice. Most recipes call for a ratio between 1:1 and 1:3. Gin and Tonic fans celebrate October 19 every year as International Gin and Tonic Day. The day is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy this historic drink and celebrate gin distillers and tonic producers worldwide. If you, too, are a Gin and Tonic fan, read on to learn about its history and some fabulous ways to spruce up your favourite cocktail.

Origin of Gin and Tonic:

The classic gin and tonic combination has a complex history. One of the first known instances of this combination was drinking it to help combat malaria in Holland in the 1840s. Tonic water contains quinine, the bitter element of this drink, which was believed to treat malaria. In the 19th century, the British Army in India also added gin to tonic water to improve the taste of this remedy drink.
Also Read: Unlock The Secrets of Gin - History, Types, And Tips For Perfect Gin Cocktails

Who Started International Gin and Tonic Day?

A woman named Jayne Withers launched Gin and Tonic Day in 2012 in honour of her grandmother, Mary Edith Keyburn, who loved G and T. Jayne writes, "Mary Edith was a remarkable woman who loved to have the occasional tipple of Gin and Tonic. She passed away in the hospital on October 19, 2010, at the age of 95, with a Gin and Tonic at her side that was smuggled into the hospital in a water bottle and served in a teacup," quoted The Gin Guide.

^{Photo: iStock}

Celebrating International Gin and Tonic Day 2024:

This October 19, host a Gin and Tonic tasting and gather all your friends and family for a fun evening. You can also take pictures from the event and post them on social media using the hashtag #internationalginandtonicday. For your special tasting, here are some fun ways to upgrade the classic Gin and Tonic.

5 Fun Ways to Jazz Up Your Good Old G and T:

1. Cool as a Cucumber

Cut a cucumber into thin ribbons and arrange them in a highball glass. Add a handful of ice cubes. In a cocktail shaker, squeeze the juice of half a lime, then add gin, a splash of elderflower liqueur, a few basil leaves, and some cucumber chunks. Muddle the mixture thoroughly, then add ice. Shake well and strain the mixture into your glass. Finish by topping it with tonic and garnishing with more basil leaves.

2. Berry Berry Tasty

^{Photo: iStock}

Wash the strawberries and cut off the tops. Next, cut them in half or into quarters. Muddle the strawberries with a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. Transfer the mixture to a glass filled with ice. Stir in the gin and top with tonic. Garnish with a strawberry and enjoy.

3. Mint Meets Chocolate

Pour herbal-style gin into a glass and add a few leaves of fresh mint. Add a tablespoon of chocolate liqueur. Pour in the tonic and garnish with a few sprigs of mint and grated dark chocolate. Your mint-meets-chocolate G and T is ready.
Also Read: The Ultimate Guide To 2024's Gin Trends: How India Is Changing The Sipping Game

4. Peachy Not Preachy

If you like the fruity peach flavour, this cocktail is for you. Pour your gin and tonic over ice and add the peach slices. Garnish with a sprig of thyme. For a more pronounced peach flavour, you can blend the fruit and strain it into the glass before adding the other ingredients. Stir until the drink is infused with the juice.

5. Pine-ing for the Apple

^{Photo: iStock}

Smoky, caramelized, and grilled pineapples make a fantastic G and T. Begin by grilling the pineapple wheels for 5 minutes until lightly browned. Cut one wheel of pineapple and muddle it into a cocktail shaker. Add ice, gin, lemon juice, and pineapple juice. Shake for two minutes. Strain it into a glass with ice. Top with tonic water. Garnish with another grilled pineapple wheel and serve!

What is your favourite Gin and Tonic cocktail? Share with us in the comments section. Happy G and T Day!

BJP Blames Delhi Government For Yamuna Pollution, AAP Hits Back

East Delhi MP Harsh Malhotra on Saturday blamed the Aam Aadmi Party government for pollution in the Yamuna, saying cleaning the river has never been its priority.

Responding to the BJP's allegations, the AAP in a statement said, "The BJP is only indulging in dirty politics. The Aam Aadmi Party government is working at a war level against pollution... The BJP government is polluting the Yamuna by sending dirty water from Uttar Pradesh while their leaders are merely putting on a show in Delhi," AAP said.

Mr Malhotra made the remark after going to the banks of the river at Kalindi Kunj, accompanied by BJP spokesperson Anil Gupta and local councillor Brahm Singh.

Referring to the thick white froth covering the Yamuna River said, "The Arvind Kejriwal government has only spread lies and illusions about cleaning the Yamuna. When the Lieutenant Governor initiated steps to clean the Yamuna, the Kejriwal government approached the Supreme Court to block them. Cleaning the river has always been a political issue for AAP, not a priority."

He said that despite a decade of promises, pollution in the Yamuna has only worsened, posing serious health risks to people living near it.

Since Friday morning, the Yamuna River has been covered with a thick layer of white froth. Experts have warned against taking a dip in the river, even as people gear up for the Chhath Puja.

The Delhi government on Friday said it is closely monitoring the situation.

Mr Malhotra also questioned the AAP government's handling of the Rs 1,000 crore collected as pollution cess, intended for tackling air and water pollution.

"The Delhi government should clarify what happened to these funds," he said.

The MP also highlighted the severe drop in oxygen levels in the Yamuna as it flows through Delhi and the absence of sewage treatment plants at critical drainage points.

The oxygen content of the river's water drops from 9 units when it enters Delhi to zero as it leaves, making it hazardous for both residents and the environment, he told PTI Videos.

AAP leader Reena Gupta said, "Whether it's the issue of water pollution or air pollution, these issues cross administrative boundaries. There is an airshed within approximately 300 kilometres of Delhi, and the Supreme Court has consistently stated that all state governments need to work together to address this issue."

"However, only the AAP governments in Delhi and Punjab are actively tackling it. In Haryana, there has been a 30 per cent increase in stubble-burning incidents, while Uttar Pradesh has seen a 70 per cent increase. In contrast, Punjab has experienced a 30 per cent reduction in such incidents, she claimed. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Watch: Stokes Suffers Funniest Dismissal Of All Time, Internet In Splits

England suffered defeat to Pakistan by a mammoth 152 runs in the second Test in Multan, failing to chase down a target of 297. But despite the middle order failing, England's captain Ben Stokes -- returning from injury -- held strong with 37 at one end, at a rate of more than run-a-ball. However, his knock came to a rather hilarious end, as not only did he lose his wicket, but also flung his bat out of control into the air as he attempted the shot.

Trying to step out and slog Pakistan spinner Noman Ali for six, Stokes miscalculated it completely. As he attempted his shot, he lost control of his bat, which ended up flying a long way apart. Sadly for Stokes, he lost his balance too. Being outside his crease, he was promptly stumped by wicket-keeper Mohammad Rizwan.

Watch: Ben Stokes loses bat, loses balance and loses his wicket against Pakistan

Ben Stokes lost his bat, his balance and his wicket in a single ball. pic.twitter.com/3Gns0SDXvu

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) October 18, 2024

Stokes was the seventh English batter to depart and the last of the recognized batters. His dismissal left England at 125/7, still needed 172 runs.

It wasn't the happiest return to Test cricket for Stokes, who had missed England's previous series against Sri Lanka due to injury.

Pakistan scripted victory thanks to the efforts of their newcomers. Ahead of the game, the decision to drop Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah faced backlash. However, each of their replacements impressed in the second Test.

Babar's replacement -- debutant Kamran Ghulam -- made a century in the first innings. With the ball, spinners Sajid Khan and Noman Ali picked up all 20 England wickets. Sajid was the star of the first innings getting seven, while Noman picked up eight in the second.

At the age of 38, Noman shone on his return to the Test side. He picked up 11 wickets in total. However, it was bowling partner Sajid, who picked up the Player of the Match award after his first innings heroics.

6 गेंद पर चाहिए थे 15 रन... गेंदबाज ने आखिरी ओवर में ऐसे पलट दी बाजी

न्यूजीलैंड ने वेस्टइंडीज को आखिरी ओवर में मात देकर महिला टी20 वर्ल्ड कप के फाइनल में जगह बना ली. जहां उसका सामना रविवार (20 अक्टूबर) को साउथ अफ्रीका से होगा. साउथ अफ्रीका ने पहले सेमीफाइनल में छह बार की चैंपियन ऑस्ट्रेलिया को हराकर फाइनल का टिकट कटाया है. न्यूजीलैंड ने वेस्टइंडीज को 8 रन से मात दी.

कौन है वो बॉलर...जिसने अकेले 7 हैट्रिक का बनाया विश्व कीर्तिमान

Uniqe Record: किसी भी गेंदबाज के लिए हैट्रिक लेना उसका सपना होता है. जिस तरह से बल्लेबाज शतक जड़ने का सपना संजोता है, उसी प्रकार से एक बॉलर भी लगातार तीन गेंदों पर विकेट लेने के बारे में सोचता है. इंग्लैंड के पूर्व लेग स्पिनर डग राइट के नाम फर्स्ट क्लास क्रिकेट में एक दो नहीं बल्कि पूरे 7 बार हैट्रिक लेने का विश्व रिकॉर्ड है. इस रिकॉर्ड मो तोड़ना लगभग असंभव है. डग राइट का ये यूनीक रिकॉर्ड सदियों से अटूट है.

PM Modi Chairs NDA Chief Ministers' Meet, Discusses Governance Issues

Chief Ministers from 19 NDA-ruled states met in Chandigarh today for a long pending meet to discuss issues relating to governance and upcoming events of the government, including one to celebrate the Constitution -- Samvidhan ki Amrut Mahotsav. The meeting -- held shortly after the oath ceremony of Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini -- was chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 

In a post on X, PM Modi shared pictures from the meeting. "Chaired a meeting of NDA Chief Ministers and Deputy Chief Ministers. We had extensive discussions on aspects of good governance and ways to improve people's lives. Our alliance is committed to furthering national progress and empowering the poor and downtrodden," his post read.

"The PM gave his observation that since Independence it was the first time yesterday that the oath ceremony in Jammu and Kashmir was held as per the Indian constitution. Before this, the oath ceremony in J&K used to take place as per the Constitution of Jammu & Kashmir," said BJP chief JP Nadda, who was present at the meet along with Union ministers Amit Shah and Rajnath.

"Amit Shah ji moved a proposal that in 2025 we will discuss how democracy was murdered with the imposition of Emergency... Next year, we will celebrate 150 years of Birsa Munda and Sardar Patel and the 100th birth anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee," he added. 

"Deliberations in this meeting will have a structured agenda covering national development issues. It will also discuss subjects like observance of Samvidhan Ka Amrut Mahotsav and the Year of 50th anniversary of attempt to murder democracy," read a statement from the government released ahead of the meeting.

With the BJP and its allies set to take on opposition alliance in next month's Maharashtra and Jharkhand polls, the ruling bloc is looking to draw momentum from its Haryana win to charge at its rivals.

Thirteen Chief Ministers and 16 Deputy Chief Ministers from the BJP participated, along with allies -- Chief Ministers from Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim, Nagaland, and Meghalaya, which are governed by NDA partners.

House Help In Ghaziabad Arrested For Allegedly Mixing Urine In Dough

A house help working for a real estate businessman for eight years has been arrested for allegedly mixing urine in the dough used to make rotis, police said.

The help, identified as Reena (32) from Shanti Nagar Colony here, was caught on camera committing the alleged act, police said.

The incident came to light when Rupam, house owner Nitin Gautam's wife, noticed her family members experiencing liver problems. Suspecting a foul play, she began monitoring the help's activities in the kitchen. Gautam secretly recorded a video using his mobile phone, which captured the help allegedly mixing urine in the flour.

Based on the complaint and evidence filed by the family, police lodged an FIR regarding the matter on Monday and arrested Reena on Tuesday.

"During interrogation, the help initially denied the allegations. However, upon being confronted with the video, she confessed to her actions. The help claimed she was motivated by revenge after being frequently scolded by her employer for minor mistakes," said ACP Wave City Lipi Nagaich.

Reena has been booked under Section 272 (malignant act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life) of the BNS, said the officer.

Similar incidents of human waste, including urine and spit, being added to food items have been reported from several places in the state.

In wake of such incidents, the Uttar Pradesh government on Tuesday announced it will soon introduce a new law against sellers who "hide their identity" and mix human waste or inedible material in food items and beverages.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

No Warm-Up Game In Australia For India. Report Says "Internal Match vs..."

Team India will tour Australia later this year to play five Tests Down Under. This will be the first time since the 1991-92 season that the two heavyweights will meet over 5 Tests in a tour. India won back-to-back Test series in Australia, including their last trip Down Under in 2020-21. The Indian team, led by Virat Kohli back then, played three ODIs, as many T20Is, and two three-day practice matches before the Test series. However, the preparation will be a bit different in the lead up to the five-match series.

According to a report in Cricbuzz, India's only warm-up game in Australia will be an internal contest. The senior men's team will take on the touring India 'A' side, also comprising of some Test regulars.

The India 'A' team will arrive in Australia few weeks earlier than the Rohit Sharma-led senior side. They will play two games against Australia 'A'. However, the India 'A' team will stay in Australia for a bit longer to play a three-day internal match against the senior team.

The report also claimed that the internal practice match will be played at the WACA Ground in Perth from November 15 to 17. Meanwhile, the first Test betweem India and Australia will be played at the new venue in Perth, Optus Stadium, from November 22.

Ruturaj Gaikwad will captain India 'A' during the tour. They are scheduled to play two games against Australia 'A'. The first game will be played at the Great Barrier Reef Arena from October 31 to November 3, while the Melbourne Cricket Ground will host the second unofficial game from November 7 to 10.

"It's (an) internal (match), so up to India how they use the game. Maybe some of the Test players may play in the India A games but again up to the BCCI. Not many countries seem to play warm up games these days. Australia didn't play any before the last series in India," a Cricket Australia official told Cricbuzz.

The BCCI selectors are yet to finalise the India 'A' squad, but it is expected to come out in the coming days.

The Australia 'A' side, on the other hand, will be announced on Monday (October 14) by chief selector George Bailey during a press conference.

Bailey is also expected to provide an update on the fitness off all-rounder Cameron Green, is in doubt of the five-match series due to a back injury.

कोहली के पैदा होने के 24 दिन बाद भारत में जीता था न्यूजीलैंड, फिर कभी नही जीता

India vs New Zealand First Test: क्या आप जानते हैं कि न्यूजीलैंड की टीम भारत में आखिरी बार टेस्ट मैच कब जीती थी. जवाब है कि जब विराट कोहली सिर्फ 24 दिन के थे.

How Far Can Trudeau Go As Personal Electoral Gain Trumps Diplomatic Ties

It is not uncommon to see a country's election campaigns politicise various global issues, but what is rather unusual and perhaps unique in the case of Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau, is "how far he can go" for personal electoral gains. His attempts have reached a level where actual diplomatic relations are seeing a fallout over "the politics of vote-bank".

India and Canada are in the midst of the worst-ever diplomatic spat in the history of bilateral ties between the two nations. India has recalled its high commissioner to Canada and expelled six top diplomats from Canada yesterday. Canada mirrored India's move. The reason - Justin Trudeau's proximity to the Khalistan separatist movement and his sympathy towards declared terrorists and extremists who spread hate, violence, and extremism on Canadian soil - all to appeal to his vote bank.

Mr Trudeau, who is seeking another term as Canada's prime minister, but facing one setback after another politically in his country, has repeatedly supported the Khalistani separatist movement and allowed space for them to operate by calling it "freedom of speech" in his country.

The Prime Minister of Canada has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with terrorists, extremists and separatists by attending Khalistan rallies in Canada. By doing so, Canada's Prime Minister has directly violated India's national security concerns whilst also violating India's sovereignty and territorial integrity by supporting those who want another nation to be carved out of India - terming all this as "free speech in Canada."

"Celebration and glorification of violence should not be a part of any civilized society. Democratic countries which respect the rule of law should not allow intimidation by radical elements in the name of freedom of expression," India had said about Trudeau's attendance at the Khalistan rally.

Citing his concern over grave situation and rapidly deteriorating ties, while also seeing a rise in extremist elements in Canada, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had said earlier this year that "By allowing political space to Khalistani separatist elements, the Canadian government (led by Justin Trudeau) is repeatedly showing that its vote bank is more powerful than its rule of law."

Speaking to Press Trust of India, Mr Jaishankar had said, "India respects and practices freedom of speech, but that does not equate with freedom to threaten foreign diplomats, extend support to separatism or allow political space to elements advocating violence and terror."

Mr Jaishankar had also wondered how people with "dubious backgrounds are being allowed to enter and live in Canada", referring to select Khalistani separatists among the Sikh migrants from Punjab.

"In any rules-based society, you would imagine that you would check people's background, how they came, what passport they carried etc," he said, adding that "If you have people whose presence there is itself on very dubious documents, what does it say about you? It actually says that your vote bank is more powerful than your rule of law."

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TRUDEAU'S LATEST ATTEMPT

India and Canada have been dealing with an unprecedented diplomatic crisis after Justin Trudeau alleged that Indian government agents were involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. India has rejected Canada's allegations, terming it "absurd" and "politically motivated."

Losing electoral ground fast in the last few months since key ally, Jagmeet Singh withdrew support to his party, Justin Trudeau has likely pacified his "vote bank" late on Monday as he doubled down on accusations of India "supporting criminal activity against Canadians" and "coercive behaviour targeting South Asian Canadians".

In his latest allegations, Mr Trudeau called the Indian High Commissioner a "person of interest" in the "murder" investigation of Khalistani terrorist Nijjar. India trashed Mr Trudeau's allegations, describing them as "preposterous imputations."

On its part, India - which has yet to respond to these latest comments - has set up a high-level committee to investigate the allegation.

However, calling out "the political agenda of Justin Trudeau's government" in a strongly worded rebuttal, India issued a statement saying, "The Government of India strongly rejects these preposterous imputations and ascribes them to the political agenda of the Trudeau Government that is centered around vote bank politics."

"Since Prime Minister Trudeau made certain allegations in September 2023, the Canadian government has not shared a shred of evidence with the Government of India, despite many requests from our side. This latest step follows interactions that have again witnessed assertions without any facts. This leaves little doubt that on the pretext of an investigation, there is a deliberate strategy of smearing India for political gains," India's statement read.

"Prime Minister Trudeau's hostility to India has long been in evidence. In 2018, his visit to India, which was aimed at currying favour with a vote bank, rebounded to his discomfort. His Cabinet has included individuals who have openly associated with an extremist and separatist agenda regarding India. His naked interference in Indian internal politics in December 2020 showed how far he was willing to go in this regard. That his government was dependent on a political party, whose leader openly espouses a separatist ideology vis-a-vis India, only aggravated matters," Centre's statement further read.

TRUDEAU'S POLITICAL SETBACKS AHEAD OF CANADA ELECTIONS

In the last few months, Justin Trudeau has faced a series of political setbacks. What has been alarming for him is that he has lost the support of his key ally, Jagmeet Singh's party. Singh openly professes for 'Khalistan'.

Doubts about the leadership of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau intensified after his ruling Liberal Party suffered two humiliating losses in a special election, but despite that, the unpopular leader is determined to cling to office ahead of a looming national vote.

The loss, following a defeat in Toronto in late June, reinforced the perception that Liberal prospects in the next national election are dim. The mandate for Trudeau's minority government expires at the end of October 2025, but an early election has become increasingly likely.

Although polls indicate the Liberals will lose badly to the official opposition right-of-center Conservatives in the next election amid unhappiness over inflation, healthcare and a housing crisis, Trudeau and his closest aides say he is going nowhere and has time to help the party recover.

According to a survey by global market research and public opinion firm IPSOS, only 26 per cent people see Justin Trudeau as a good PM - he found himself to be 19 per cent less than Pierre Poilievre, leader of the Conservative Party.

Facing being ousted from the post of Prime Minister, Mr Trudeau has made a series of allegations against India to polarise the electorate whilst catering to his vote bank in a desperate attempt to get all the support he can for him to remain prime minister.

THE INDIAN DIASPORA

The Indian diaspora in Canada is about 1.8 million strong and there are another one million Non Resident Indians residing in the country. The Indian diaspora, mostly of Sikh ethnicity, is considered an influential bloc in Canada's politics.

Ties between India and Canada came under severe strain following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's allegations in September last year of the "potential" involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Nijjar.
 

इंटरनेशनल क्रिकेट में सबसे ज्यादा गेंद डालने का महारिकॉर्ड

इंटरनेशनल क्रिकेट में गेंदबाजों के नाम भी कई रिकॉर्ड है. एक बॉलर ने अपने करियर में 60 हजार से ज्यादा गेंदें बल्लेबाजों को डाली है. इस दौरान उसने 1347 विकेट चटकाए. इस रिकॉर्ड को तोड़ना किसी भी बॉलर के लिए बहुत मुश्किल है. वर्तमान में जो गेंदबाज खेल रहे हैं वो दूर दूर तक इस रिकॉर्ड को तोड़ते हुए दिखाई नहीं दे रहे हैं. टॉप 5 गेंदबाजों की बात करें तो अंतरराष्ट्रीय क्रिकेट में सबसे ज्यादा गेंद डालने में भारत का भी एक गेंदबाज शामिल है.

Veteran Actor Atul Parchure Dies At 57

Veteran actor Atul Parchure has died at the age of 57. He breathed his last on Monday following a battle with cancer.

His death has sent shockwaves through the film fraternity, leading to an outpouring of tributes on social media.

He was a well-known Marathi actor who appeared in numerous Hindi television shows and films, including a memorable stint on Kapil Sharma's comedy show.

In a previous talk show appearance, he disclosed his cancer diagnosis, revealing that doctors had discovered a 5 cm tumour in his liver.

In an interview, he expressed the gravity of the situation, stating: "I was told I have a tumour about 5 centimeters long in my liver and that it is cancerous."

However, Atul Parachure's treatment took a significant toll on his health due to a misdiagnosis.

He recounted: "My first procedure after the diagnosis went wrong, affecting my pancreas and leading to various complications. The incorrect treatment actually aggravated my condition. I was unable to walk and struggled to speak clearly. In that state, the doctor advised me to wait for a month and a half.

"They warned that undergoing surgery could result in long-term jaundice or severe liver complications, potentially jeopardising my survival. Eventually, I sought a second opinion, switched doctors, and received the appropriate medication and chemotherapy."

Atul Parchure was known for his work in both films and television, particularly recognized for his comic performances.

He gained popularity through various projects, including notable works like "Vasu Chi Sasu", "Priyatama", and Tarun "Turk Mhatare Arka".

His filmography boasts appearances in movies such as "Navra Mazha Navsacha", "Salaam-E-Ishq", "Partner", "All the Best: Fun Begins", "Khatta Meetha" and "Bbuddah Hoga Terra Baap" among others.

His versatility as an actor made him a beloved figure in the Marathi entertainment industry.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

इम्पैक्ट प्लेयर पर बड़ा फैसला, BCCI ने घरेलू टी20 टूर्नामेंट से हटाया

BCCI scraps Impact Player rule in Syed Mushtaq Ali T20s: भारतीय क्रिकेट बोर्ड ने ‘इम्पैक्ट प्लेयर’ नियम पर आखिरकार निर्णय ले लिया है, जो पिछले एक साल से चर्चा का विषय बना हुआ है.

Criminal Pours Hot Oil On Chhattisgarh Cop, Slaughters Family Of Another

Chhattisgarh's Surajpur has been engulfed in chaos after a brutal double murder - the victims were the wife and daughter of a Head Constable, Talib Sheikh. The incident, which has sent shock waves through the region and led to violent protests that included arson on the property of the accused. The matter escalated and the town shut down after a strike was called. 

Reports in the local media claim that Kuldeep Sahu, a known criminal of the area, had entered the house of Talib Sheikh in his absence and killed his wife and daughter with a sharp weapon. Their partially clothed bodies were later discovered in a field about five kilometers away. 

The violence started during a Durga idol immersion ceremony on Monday night, when Kuldeep Sahu reportedly poured a pan of hot oil on a constable during a dispute in the city's Chowpatty area, severely burning the officer. 

Head Constable Talib Sheikh attempted to catch Kuldeep at the time, but he escaped, and later targeted the policeman's family. When the police attempted to arrest Kuldeep, he opened fire at them and managed to escape, abandoning his vehicle.

Angry residents, incensed by the murders and the escape of Sahu, hit the streets. They called for a city-wide bandh and torched vehicles parked outside Kuldeep Sahu's house and warehouse. 

The Sub-Divisional Magistrate of the area, who had arrived with the police team to control the situation, faced the wrath of the mob. A video of the incident is being widely circulated. It shows the magistrate fleeing after being attacked by the crowd. The police had to intervene and rescue him. 

Four police teams have been deployed to catch Kuldeep Sahu. The cybercrime division is working to find his whereabouts. 

The brutal killings and subsequent unrest have drawn sharp political reactions. 

Former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel expressed his outrage, stating, "What is happening in our Chhattisgarh? It seems that the rule of law no longer exists in this state, which was once called an island of peace".

He added that the incident highlighted a deep loss of public faith in law enforcement and governance.

Deputy Chief Minister Arun Saw lashed out at the Congress, accusing them of contributing to the lawlessness in the state. 

"The Congress party need not worry about the law-and-order situation. The state government is taking strict action, and wherever negligence by officials is found, they are being held accountable," he said.

Body Of Ex Professor GN Saibaba To Be Donated Like He Wanted: Family

The body of former Delhi University (DU) professor and rights activist GN Saibaba who passed away in Hyderabad, will be donated to a hospital as he wished, said a statement issued by his family on Sunday.

Saibaba, 58, was released from the Nagpur Central Jail after 10 years of incarceration after the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court set aside the life sentence given to him by a trial court, in an alleged Maoist links case in which the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) was invoked.

Saibaba's body will be kept at his brother's house in Jawahar Nagar, Hyderabad, for his relatives, friends and well-wishers to pay homage, on Monday. Afterwards, his body will be donated to state-run Gandhi Medical College. His eyes have already been donated to LV Prasad Eye Hospital, the family said in a statement.

The former professor who taught English at Ram Lal Anand College of Delhi University (DU) passed away on Saturday due to post-operative complications, seven months after he was acquitted.

Saibaba was suffering from gall bladder infection and was operated on two weeks ago in Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS), but developed complications subsequently.

His daughter Manjeera told PTI Videos that he had Covid twice, his health was in abysmal condition while he was in jail and he recovered every time. Hence, she said that family was hoping that he would come back this time too. Neither Saibaba nor family members expected his death, she said, adding that he expressed hope during the last conversation she had with him.

Ms Manjeera said, "His body had borne too much all these years."

"I miss him. I still cannot believe he is not with us. I still feel that I will go and open the door and he will be there sitting on his wheelchair telling me to do this and that. I still feel that way. I still feel that he is with us," she said.

Ms Manjeera said they were aware that his condition was severe since Saturday afternoon, but at around 8 pm, doctors told the family that his heart had stopped beating and they were trying to perform CPR on him. They pronounced him dead at 8.30 last night, she added.

Saibaba was terminated from service by the DU and his official accommodation was taken away after he was arrested in 2014.

Saibaba's death will continue to weigh heavily on public conscience, said Prof Saikat Ghosh, one of the few DU teachers who raised his voice against his imprisonment and the way he was treated in the jail.

"The sad thing is that nobody will be held accountable for pushing him and his family to such a catastrophic end," he said.

Saibaba was a popular colleague in the Literature fraternity of Delhi University. The popularity stemmed from his dedication as a teacher and his devotion to the issues of democratic rights and civil liberties, Mr Ghosh said.

It took Saibaba 10 years to prove that he was not guilty. He inspired many and his demise is a "big loss," said DU Professor Abha Dev.

"One can only try to imagine his hardships with 90 per cent disability. The country does not know how to celebrate these stories to inspire others but they fear the truth that he was speaking," said Ms Dev.

Another DU Professor, Monami, said Saibaba's friends and well-wishers were disheartened by the news of his demise.

"He just came out a few months ago and left so soon. But he was mentally a strong person," she said.

Saibaba was lodged in the Nagpur Central Jail since 2017 after his conviction by a trial court in Maharashtra's Gadchiroli district. Before that, he was in prison from 2014 to 2016 and was subsequently granted bail.

Following his acquittal, the wheelchair-bound Saibaba walked out of the Nagpur Central Jail after 10 years.

Saibaba had alleged in August this year that he was not taken to a hospital for nine months by authorities despite the left side of his body getting paralysed and was just given painkillers in the Nagpur Central Jail.

A native of Andhra Pradesh, Saibaba had earlier claimed that he was warned by the authorities that if he did not stop "talking", he would be arrested in some false case. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

"Act Against Evildoers": BJP MLA Distributes Swords Among Girls In Bihar

BJP MLA Mithilesh Kumar distributed swords among girls during the Vijayadashami celebration in Bihar's Sitamarhi district on Saturday.

“If any evil person dares to touch our sisters, his hand will be chopped off with this very sword,” he said while addressing the gathering at one of the Puja Pandals at Kaprol Road in Sitamarhi city.

“We have to make our sisters capable of cutting off their hands and, if needed, me and you all would have to do this. All those evildoers who have ill will against our sisters must be destroyed,” Mr Kumar said.

Mithilesh Kumar appealed to the people to support him in his initiative and encouraged people, especially women, to act against evildoers. The swords were distributed to school- and college-going girls.

Mr Kumar displayed several firearms, swords and other weapons at the venue and worshipped them.

Mithilesh Kumar is a BJP MLA from the Sitamarhi constituency. He made headlines at the start of Navratri when he visited several Durga Puja Pandals and distributed swords.

Worship of weapons is a tradition among a section of the Hindu community during Navratri. 

When Baba Siddique Helped End SRK-Salman Khan Feud

Former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique was shot dead in Mumbai's Bandra today. A political veteran in Maharashtra, Mr Siddique left Congress, after nearly five decades of association with the party, and joined the ruling BJP's ally Nationalist Congress Party in February this year.

He had served as a minister when the Congress and the Sharad Pawar-led NCP coalition government was in power.

Mr Siddique was known not just for his political connections across party lines but also for hosting lavish parties. In one such party in 2013, Mr Siddique inadvertently played a role in uniting two of Bollywood's megastars, Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan.

Despite occasional conflicts and publicised disagreements, the two actors have maintained a bond over the years. One significant moment in their relationship unfolded at Baba Siddique's Iftaar party in 2013, bringing an end to a five-year-long cold war.

The Iftaar party hosted by Mr Siddique became the backdrop for the much-anticipated reconciliation between the Khans. Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan, who had previously avoided each other following a heated argument at Katrina Kaif's birthday party in 2008, finally came face to face. The tension that had overshadowed their relationship dissipated as they warmly greeted each other and shared a heartfelt hug. A photo capturing that moment went viral across social media and news channels alike.

रणजी ट्रॉफी का पहला दिन गुजरात-मध्य प्रदेश के नाम, बिहार ने अपने फैंस को किया

रणजी ट्रॉफी 2024-25 का पहला दिन गुजरात- हिमाचल प्रदेश के लिए बेहतरीन साबित हुआ. दूसरी ओर, बिहार की क्रिकेट टीम ने अपने फैंस को शर्मसार किया.

India "Concerned" As Israel Hits UN Facility In Lebanon, IDF Puts Out Map

India has expressed grave "concern" over the abysmal conflict situation in West Asia as Israel intensifies its resolve targeting Hezbollah hideouts. New Delhi issued a statement today after UN peacekeepers stationed in south Lebanon came under fire from Israeli forces.

Among the UN peacekeepers stationed in Lebanon, there are approximately 900 Indian soldiers. It is important to note that they were not at the United Nations Interim Force In Lebanon or UNIFIL headquarters at the time it was attacked by Israeli forces. Besides the soldiers, there are around 25 staff officers, including medical experts deployed there.

"We are concerned at the deteriorating security situation along the Blue Line," the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement, adding that "We continue to monitor the situation very closely."

New Delhi underscored the importance it attaches to United Nations' peacekeeping initiatives saying UN premises cannot be allowed to be targeted, and respecting its sanctity is a mandate.

"Inviolability of UN premises must be respected by all, and appropriate measures taken to ensure the safety of UN peacekeepers and the sanctity of their mandate," the foreign ministry said.

Israel however, has defended its actions, with the Israeli Defense Forces or IDF claiming that "Since the beginning of the war, Hezbollah has fired more than 130 rockets in close proximity" to 26 United Nations facilities."

The IDF also put out a map in which it has identified these places as being "less than 300 meters" from the UN facilities.

WHAT THE UNITED NATIONS SAID - UNIFIL STATEMENT

The UN has said, "Recent escalation along the Blue Line is causing widespread destruction of towns and villages in south Lebanon, while rockets continue to be launched towards Israel, including civilian areas. In the past days we have seen incursions from Israel into Lebanon in Naqoura and other areas. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers have clashed with Hizbullah elements on the ground in Lebanon."

It further said that "UNIFIL's Naqoura headquarters and nearby positions have been repeatedly hit," adding that on Thursday "two peacekeepers were injured after an IDF Merkava tank fired its weapon toward an observation tower at UNIFIL's headquarters in Naqoura, directly hitting it and causing them to fall. The injuries are fortunately, this time, not serious, but they remain in hospital."

Speaking about the Israeli offensive, the UN statement asserted that "IDF soldiers also fired on UN position (UNP) 1-31 in Labbouneh, hitting the entrance to the bunker where peacekeepers were sheltering, and damaging vehicles and a communications system. An IDF drone was observed flying inside the UN position up to the bunker entrance."

It further highlighted that on Wednesday "IDF (Israeli) soldiers deliberately fired at and disabled the position's perimeter-monitoring cameras. They also deliberately fired on UNP 1-32A in Ras Naqoura, where regular Tripartite meetings were held before the conflict began, damaging lighting and a relay station."

Reminding Israeli forces that its attacks on UN facilities is a grave violation of international humanitarian law as well as UN Security Council resolution 1701, the UN said, "We remind the IDF and all actors of their obligations to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and property and to respect the inviolability of UN premises at all times. UNIFIL peacekeepers are present in south Lebanon to support a return to stability under Security Council mandate. Any deliberate attack on peacekeepers is a grave violation of international humanitarian law and of Security Council resolution 1701."

WHAT IS UN SECURITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION 1701

United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 is a resolution that was adopted with an intention to resolve the 2006 Lebanon War.

The resolution has been the linchpin of peace between Israel and Lebanon for almost two decades and the 10,000 UN peacekeepers who are tasked with implementing it on the ground.

Adopted unanimously by the UN Security Council in 2006, the purpose of resolution 1701 continues to be about ending hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel, with the Council calling for a permanent ceasefire to be based on the creation of a buffer zone.

WHAT IS 'THE BLUE LINE'

The 'Blue Line' is a United Nations-recognised demarcation line to indicate that Israel had withdrawn its military from southern Lebanon. It separates Lebanon from Israel and the Golan Heights, but it is not an official international border.

Stretching for 120km along Lebanon's southern frontier and Israel's northern border, the so-called "Blue Line" is "a key to peace in the region" and one of the central elements of resolution 1701 since the war in 2006, with UNIFIL peacekeepers being its temporary custodian, according to UN Peacekeeping.

Based on various historical maps, some dating back almost a century, the Blue Line is not a border, but a temporary "line of withdrawal" set by the UN in 2000 for the practical purpose of confirming the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon.

Whenever Israeli or Lebanese authorities wish to undertake any activities close to the Blue Line, UNIFIL requests that they provide advance notice, allowing the UN mission to keep authorities on all sides informed, to minimise any misunderstandings that could lead to increased tensions.

ISRAEL'S LETTER TO THE UNITED NATIONS

Israel's Minister of Foreign Affairs has written a letter to the United Nations clarifying its stance amid the ongoing and escalating crisis in the Middle East (West Asia), especially with regard to its operations in Lebanon.

In its letter, the minister wrote that "On Ictiber 8, 2023, Hezbollah, a terrorist, Iranian-backed organisation, launched an unprovoked attack on Israel, joining the war initiated by Hazas on October 7, 2023. Since then they have fired over 13,000 projectiles, 1500 anti-tank missiles and hundreds of explosive drones at Israeli communities, forcing more than 63,000 people to evacuate their homes."

The minister further said that "This war which was imposed on Israel has so far resulted in 51 casualties and over 372 injuries, besides causing severe damage ot Israeli towns and villages."

The minister said that as a result of Hezbollah's unilateral and unprovoked actions, "One year later, on October 1, 2024 the IDF initiated a targeted, limited raid operations in southern Lebanon aimed at Hezbollah military assets and infrastructure along the Blue Line, with a goal of dismantling them and neutralising the ongoing threat."