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    Myanmar marks World Ozone Day

    Yangon, Sep 17 (IANS) Myanmar marked World Ozone Day with various awareness activities across several regions and states, the local media reported on Tuesday.

    In Yangon Region, an event to commemorate World Ozone Day was held at a high school in Sanchaung township, attracting over 260 participants, including Yangon Region Chief Minister U Soe Thein, officials, students, and teachers, Xinhua news agency, reported quoting the state-run daily The Mirror.

    A similar event was held at the state hall in Mawlamyine, Mon State, attended by Mon State Chief Minister U Aung Kyi Thein, along with officials, students, and teachers, the report said.

    In Magway Region, another event took place at the city hall of Magway, attended by the region's natural resource minister, officials, teachers, and students, the report added.

    These events featured awareness booths focused on ozone layer preservation, and prizes were awarded to students who won the essay competition to mark World Ozone Day, it said.

    The theme for the 2024 World Ozone Day is "Montreal Protocol: Advancing Climate Action."

    --IANS

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    Kejriwal meets LG, tenders resignation as Delhi CM

    New Delhi, Sep 17 (IANS) The AAP's National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal resigned as the Chief Minister of Delhi on Tuesday, just hours after selecting Atishi as his successor for the post.

    Accompanied by other AAP leaders, including Atishi and Saurabh Bharadwaj, Kejriwal arrived at the Delhi LG's residence around 4:30 P.M. and submitted his resignation to LG Saxena.

    With Kejriwal stepping down, the AAP will now stake a claim for government formation under Atishi's leadership.

    This resignation comes amid the upheaval faced by the party during Kejriwal's third tenure, particularly with the Delhi excise policy case, where several top leaders, including Kejriwal himself, were accused of accepting money from liquor companies to pass favourable policies.

    Former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia was arrested, followed by Kejriwal's own arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in March, marking the first time a sitting Chief Minister was sent to jail. Kejriwal was released on bail after six months.

    Kejriwal had walked out of Tihar Jail on Friday, hours after the Supreme Court granted him conditional bail in the Delhi liquor policy case.

    He had announced his resignation a day after his release, addressing a public gathering where he stated his intention to seek early elections in November.

    During his speech, he called upon the people to judge his honesty and vowed not to sit on the CM's chair until the public's verdict was delivered.

    "I am ready for Agni Pariksha", said Kejriwal, adding, "Two days later, I will resign as Chief Minister. I will not sit on that chair till the people announce their verdict. Elections in Delhi are months away."

    In a direct attack on the Modi government after his release, Kejriwal called it "more dictatorial than the British" and urged other non-BJP Chief Ministers not to resign if they were falsely imprisoned, emphasising that it is possible to run a government from jail if united.

    --IANS

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    Three died in helicopter crash in Russia’s Far East

    Vladivostok, Sep 17 (IANS) Three people, including a pilot and two passengers, were killed in a helicopter crash in the Amur region of Russia's Far East, rescuers confirmed on Tuesday.

    According to local emergency services in the Zeya District, the Robinson R66 helicopter, which went missing on Monday, was located near the spot where its emergency beacon was activated. "The helicopter has been found, and all three aboard are confirmed dead," an official stated.

    Preliminary reports show that the helicopter's emergency beacon signal was received on Monday evening before a search and rescue operation involving around 20 personnel and seven equipment units was launched.

    The helicopter, owned by the gold mining company Hergu, was conducting a flight over company territory when it went missing, reports Xinhua news agency.

    Rescue teams discovered the wreckage on Tuesday afternoon, hours after the search began. The Russian Investigative Committee's Eastern Interregional Transport Department has opened a criminal case concerning the helicopter's disappearance.

    Earlier this month, a similar incident occurred in the Kamchatka region of the country, resulting in the death of 22 people aboard a Mi-8T helicopter.

    According to the emergency services, the Mi-8T helicopter disappeared from radar almost immediately after takeoff, though the crew did not report any issues prior to the loss of contact.

    --IANS

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    BlueKraft launches ‘Viksit Bharat Fellowship’ programme, to empower emerging talents

    New Delhi, Sep 17 (IANS) BlueKraft Digital Foundation on Tuesday launched the Viksit Bharat Fellowship programme, an initiative aimed to encourage and empower writing and creative talents across various domains.

    The data analytics agency said that it has become a full-fledged publisher with the launch of its publishing and knowledge centre and also shared its happiness over it coinciding with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 74th birthday.

    Under the Viksit Bharat Fellowship programme, 25 fellowships would be offered, aimed at empowering emerging talents, experienced and exceptional professionals, academics and experts from within the nation and around the globe to contribute to a meaningful narrative about India.

    The fellowship seeks to document and celebrate the diverse journeys of a nation through various formats, including non-fiction books, articles, research papers, children's literature addressing social themes and values, coffee table books that narrate stories of change, and compelling case studies of impact.

    The fellowship is structured in three tiers - BlueKraft Associate Fellowship, BlueKraft Senior Fellowship and BlueKraft Distinguished Fellowship.

    A BlueKraft Associate Fellow will receive a monthly stipend of Rs 75,000, a BlueKraft Senior Fellow will receive a monthly stipend of Rs 1,25,000 and a BlueKraft Distinguished Fellow will receive a monthly stipend of Rs 2,00,000 during the fellowship period of one year.

    The Fellows will gain exclusive access to mentorship and opportunities with seasoned subject matter experts, renowned professionals and thought leaders, for facilitating discussions and insights that can enhance their work along with exclusive resources for research and writing.

    Completed works may be published under the aegis of BlueKraft Digital Foundation providing fellows with a platform to reach a broader audience and contribute to the discourse on Indian development. Interested candidates can apply by submitting their applications by November 1st.

    One can also access detailed guidelines and application forms on the fellowships from the official website of BlueKraft Digital Foundation.

    --IANS

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    J&K: Security beefed up ahead of PM Modi’s rally in Srinagar

    Srinagar, Sep 17 (IANS) Two days ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first election rally in Srinagar city, security forces on Tuesday took over the venue of the rally.

    PM Modi is arriving here on Thursday to address his first BJP election rally at the Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium in Srinagar city.

    While the Special Protection Group (SPG) deployed on the Prime Minister’s security took over the venue, security forces including the CRPF and J&K Police are augmenting the protection of the VVIP at the venue.

    The team of SPG arrived in Srinagar four days ahead of the PM visit to coordinate with the authorities for the protection of the VVIP protectee.

    Located in the Ram Munshibagh area of Srinagar, Sher-e-Kashmir cricket stadium can accommodate a large number of people, who the BJP expects will come to listen to the party’s star campaigner PM Modi.

    The PM has earlier addressed an election rally for the BJP in Jammu division. BJP sources said the PM will also address a rally at Katra town in Reasi district of Jammu division on Thursday.

    The passage of participants at the venue in Srinagar will be regulated and police said some traffic diversions will also be made on Thursday to make sure that the PM’s election rally passes off smoothly.

    “For the visit of the Prime Minister there is a detailed standard operating procedure (SoP) governing such a visit and we are following that to the minutest detail,” said police.

    All high rise buildings around the venue will be taken over by sharp shooters of the security forces and electronic surveillance would be augmented by human security to ensure a foolproof security set up on September 19.

    PM’s visit comes a day after voting ends in the first phase of the third-phased assembly elections in J&K.

    At least 23.27 lakh electors in 24 constituencies spread over seven districts, three in Jammu division and four in the Valley, will decide the fate of 219 candidates in the fray for the first phase on September 18.

    --IANS

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    Mumbai airport bags CII’s national award for Excellence in Energy Management

    Mumbai, Sep 17 (IANS) Aspiring for ‘Net-Zero Emissions’ in the next five years, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has bagged the CII’s national award for Excellence in Energy Management, officials said here on Tuesday.

    The CSMIA has been honoured with the prestigious Energy Efficient Unit Award for Excellence in Energy Management by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) at the 25th CII National Awards at a function held in Hyderabad.

    The award was given in recognition of the airport’s outstanding contributions towards sustainable energy management and proactive efforts in reducing its environmental footprint.

    The official said that the CSMIA has taken several steps to optimise energy consumption, resulting in the reduction of 8.26 per cent net energy use in the last six years.

    Even with passenger traffic on a steady rise, the CSMIA saves substantial energy of around 8.7 million (kWh) due to the consistent and sustainable approach towards energy efficiency measures.

    Among these are the introduction of the ‘Taxiway Z’, a unique project aimed at improving On-Time Performance (OTP) while contributing to more sustainable airport operations.

    The ‘Taxiway Z’ has significantly reduced the time it takes for aircraft to enter and exit the runway, thereby reducing carbon emissions.

    Additionally, the airport's Flexible-use Apron has further reduced taxi times, cutting down emissions and boosting overall sustainability.

    CSMIA has continuously invested in several energy efficient projects by replacing major conventional equipment with energy efficient products with cutting-edge technology.

    “Winning this accolade marks a significant milestone in CSMIA's journey toward a sustainable future. Our focus on transformative, long-term initiatives, coupled with the diligent efforts of our team, has made this achievement possible,” the official said.

    With sustainability at the core of CSMIA’s vision, it aspires to become ‘net-zero’ by 2029, and the CII recognition strengthens its commitment to enhancing operational efficiency while fully embracing renewable energy, he added.

    The airport remains focussed on integrating innovative, energy-efficient practices across every aspect of its operations, reinforcing its position as a leader in sustainable aviation.

    --IANS

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    Manoj Verma becomes new Kolkata Police chief, Vineet Goyal shifted to STF as ADG

    Kolkata, Sep 17 (IANS) Manoj Kumar Verma, a 1998-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, has been named as the new Commissioner of Kolkata Police.

    He replaces Vineet Kumar Goyal, who has been transferred to the Special Task Force (STF) of West Bengal Police as the Additional Director General (ADG).

    On Monday night, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee promised the junior doctors, protesting over the ghastly rape and murder of a junior doctor at the R.G. Kar Medical College & Hospital in the state capital last month, that she will replace Goyal.

    Verma held the post of Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) and Jawed Shamim will now be occupying that chair.

    As announced by the Chief Minister on Monday, Deputy Commissioner (North Division) of Kolkata Police Abhishek Gupta has also been replaced. Gupta has been transferred as the Commanding Officer of the second battalion of the Eastern Frontier Rifles (EFR). He will be replaced by Dipak Sarkar, who is currently posted as the Deputy Commissioner at the Siliguri Police Commissionerate.

    The state government, at the same time, has announced two other reshuffles in the state police. Gyanwant Singh, the Director of the Directorate of Economic Offense, has been transferred to the Intelligence Branch of the state police as the ADG. Singh will be replaced by Tripurari Athrav, the erstwhile ADG (STF).

    As per the Chief Minister's promise, erstwhile Director of Medical Education Kaushik Nayak and Director of Health Services Debasish Halder have also been replaced.

    While Nayak has been transferred as the Director of the Institute of Health and Family Welfare, Halder’s new position is Officer-on-Special Duty (Public Health) with the Health Department.

    Swapan Soren will take over as Director of Health Service (in charge) while Suprana Dutta will be the Officer-on-Special Duty (Medical Education).

    --IANS

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    MP CM makes slew of announcements on PM Modi’s birthday

    Bhopal, Sep 17 (IANS) On the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday on Tuesday, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav made several announcements at different events organised in the state.

    He announced to establishment of 'Jan Aushadhi' centres at 50 district hospitals. The announcement was made during an event at Kushabhau Thakre Auditorium in Bhopal.

    On this occasion, Governor Mangubhai Patel and the Chief Minister formally inaugurated 'Jan Aushadhi' centres by lighting the lamps.

    The 'Jan Aushadhi' - a campaign promoted by the Department of Pharmaceuticals of the Union government, provides generic drugs that are priced 50 to 60 per cent lower than the popular brands.

    The scheme has witnessed rapid expansion in a very short period of time across the country. In Madhya Pradesh, the 'Jan Aushadhi' centres will be operated by the Red Cross, as the state government officially has said.

    Meanwhile, the state government also kicked started the ‘Swachhta Hi Sewa’ campaign to celebrate the occasion of PM Modi's 74th birthday. The campaign will continue to run till October 2 (Gandhi Jayanti) and the Madhya Pradesh BJP unit will take the initiative at every corner of the state.

    The Chief Minister also announced the 'Griha-Pravesh' of 51,000 beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) and also announced incentives for Safai Mitras based on Garbage Free City Star Certification.

    --IANS

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    Top Stories

    DMK cadres asked to cautious in 4 LS seats where NDA seen as having an edge

    Chennai, April 18 (IANS) The DMK leadership has instructed its cadres to be extra cautious in four Lok Sabha constituencies where the BJP-led NDA is reported to enjoy an edge.

    As per state police intelligence, the NDA has an advantage in the Dharmapuri, Theni, Tirunelveli, and Vellore Lok Sabha seats.

    While in Dharmpuri and Theni, the NDA candidates are from PMK (Sowmiya Anbumani) and the AMMK (T.T.V. Dhinakaran), respectively, BJP legislature party leader Nainar Nagendran is in the fray from Tirunelveli in south Tamil Nadu, and New Justice Party leader A.C. Shanumgam is contesting on a BJP ticket from Vellore.

    Sources in the DMK told IANS that the party President and Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has directed party General Secretary and state Water Resources Minister S. Duraimurugan to be in touch with the lower-level functionaries of the party in these four constituencies.

    Duraimurugan’s son, Kathir Anand, is contesting from the Vellore Lok Sabha seat.

    The DMK leadership, according to information, also has its eye on the Coimbatore, Kanniyakumari, Virudhunagar, and Nilgiris seats, where the BJP candidates are state President K. Annamalai, former Union minister, Pon Radhakrishnan, filmstar-turned-politician Raadhika Sarathkumar and Union Minister L. Murugan, respectively.

    With hours only remaining for the polls, the local workers of the DMK are visiting all the homes in the four constituencies where the state police intelligence has given an edge to the BJP and NDA, and in the latter four seats also, the DMK is not taking any chance and is meeting the voters one last time.

    Talking to IANS, Duraimurugan said: "This is a routine for the DMK. We are a cadre party and know our strengths and weaknesses, and in some constituencies, we are taking some extra caution. However, we are expecting a sweep and win all the 39 seats of Tamil Nadu and one seat of Puducherry."

    --IANS

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    Aditi Rao Hyadri, Siddharth attend film screening together after engagement

    Mumbai, April 18 (IANS) Newly engaged couple Aditi Rao Hyadri and Siddharth were seen attending a special screening of MAMI Select, a collection of films shot on iPhone, in Mumbai on Thursday.

    The pictures from the event show Aditi wearing a black off-shoulder top with floral work and matching trousers. Siddharth was dressed in a black T-shirt, a denim shirt, and denim trousers.

    Aditi and Siddharth got engaged secretly at a temple in Telangana last month.

    They began dating after working on the 2021 film 'Maha Samudram'. However, the two always kept their relationship away from the public eye.

    Meanwhile, other celebs who attended the special screening included Kiran Rao, Jim Sarbh, Shobhita Dhulipala, Mouni Roy, Vijay Varma, and Zoya Akhtar.

    --IANS

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    Why it is important to keep your liver healthy

    New Delhi, April 18 (IANS) It is important to keep your liver healthy for the better functioning of the body, and because symptoms often remain hidden until the disease has progressed to an advanced stage, requiring surgery or transplantation, with the unfortunate potential for fatal outcomes, said doctors here on Thursday ahead of World Liver Day.

    World Liver Day is observed every year on April 19 to raise awareness about the diseases related to the liver.

    A concerning trend in recent years is the rise of fatty liver disease, which is increasingly affecting individuals as young as early teenagers. According to health experts, sedentary lifestyles, coupled with the consumption of unhealthy, and fatty junk food, have contributed to this alarming phenomenon.

    "Liver diseases can stem from various factors, including the consumption of unclean or contaminated food, excessive alcohol intake, and unsafe medical practices such as the use of unsterile needles in injections, hospitals, and blood transfusions. Regular liver function tests are essential to monitor the health of the liver and detect any abnormalities early on," Dr. Naveen Ganjoo, a Consultant Hepatologist, at Aster RV Hospital, told IANS.

    Data from the World Health Organisation shows liver disease ranks as the tenth most common cause of death in India. While early detection and intervention are paramount in combating liver diseases, often the symptoms remain hidden, leading to worse outcomes.

    Dr Monika Jain, Chief of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute told IANS that jaundice, characterised by a yellowish discoloration of the eyes and skin, serves as a prominent indicator of liver dysfunction.

    "Additionally, patients may experience itchy skin, abdominal swelling resembling fluid accumulation in the stomach, and swelling of the feet, all indicative of underlying liver issues. Anorexia, or loss of appetite, further underscores the physiological repercussions of fatty liver disease, emphasising the need for comprehensive screening and preventive measures to mitigate its progression."

    Other signs and symptoms of acute liver failure include pain in the upper right abdomen, often a sign of liver inflammation or enlargement. Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms, accompanied by a general sense of feeling unwell, known as malaise, the doctor said.

    Further, liver disease also plays a role in infertility and bone health.

    "Being an immunocompromised state, the doses of medications for liver disease have to be decreased and all the medicines are also not safe to be continued during pregnancy. Patients who have prolonged liver diseases might have problems while they try to get pregnant also," Dr Meenakshi Ahuja, Senior Director, Obstetrics and Gynaecology in Fortis La Femme, told IANS.

    Dr Ahuja added that in vitro fertilisation (IVF) could be an option in such cases.

    Bone diseases in chronic liver disease (CLD) patients have also emerged as a serious concern. Various factors such as nutrition, hormones, and genetics contribute, and inflammation remains a persistent trigger for bone diseases in CLD patients.

    "There is an intricate interplay between chronic liver disease (CLD) and metabolic bone complications. 'Hepatic osteodystrophy' encompassing osteomalacia and osteoporosis, is found in advanced liver disease, leading to heightened bone fragility and reduced mass. Osteoporosis, reminiscent of senile osteoporosis, emerges from an imbalance in bone formation and resorption, notably observed in liver cirrhosis and cholestatic liver diseases, posing a critical concern for liver transplant recipients," said Dr Deep Kamal Soni, Consultant, Gastroenterology at Indian Spinal Injuries Centre.

    Preventive measures and lifestyle modifications like adopting a balanced and nutritious diet, engaging in regular exercise, and screening for Hepatitis B and C, can be key to maintaining liver health, said the doctors.

    --IANS

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    IPL 2024: Rossouw replaces Bairstow as Punjab Kings win toss, elect to bowl first against Mumbai Indians

    Mullanpur, April 18 (IANS) Left-handed batter Rilee Rossouw replaces an out-of-form Jonny Bairstow as Punjab Kings won the toss and elected to bowl first against Mumbai Indians in match 33 of IPL 2024 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh Cricket Stadium on Thursday evening.

    [7:14 PM, 4/18/2024] Niharika Ians: Both teams have four points from six matches, but due to net run rate, PBKS are at eighth place, while MI are at ninth position. With the league phase nearing the half-way stage, this makes Thursday’s clash a very important match for MI and PBKS to win and keep themselves in contention to enter the playoffs.

    With regular captain Shikhar Dhawan out due to a shoulder niggle, Sam Curran will continue leading the side. Curran added that uncapped Indian batter Atharva Taide has also dropped out of the playing eleven as a tactical change.

    “Keeping up with the trend of the tournament (on electing to bowl first). It is not nice to lose the close games but we are doing a lot of things right,” said Curran.

    Thursday’s match will also see Rohit Sharma becoming just the second player after MS Dhoni to play 250 matches in the IPL. MI skipper Hardik Pandya said his playing eleven is unchanged and was a good toss to lose for him as he was itching to bat first.

    “We don't judge (our performances), couple of times we had the game in our grasp and didn't finish the game, IPL tests you, when the game is not over it is not over. We just take it game by game, go out there and give our 100 percent. Every individual should commit to the team's goal and once we do that, the results will be seen,” he said.

    Playing XIs

    Mumbai Indians: Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya (captain), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Mohammad Nabi, Gerald Coetzee, Shreyas Gopal and Jasprit Bumrah

    Substitutes: Akash Madhwal, Nuwan Thushara, Kumar Kartikeya, Piyush Chawla and Naman Dhir

    Punjab Kings: Rilee Rossouw, Prabhsimran Singh, Sam Curran (captain), Jitesh Sharma (wicketkeeper), Liam Livingstone, Shashank Singh, Ashutosh Sharma, Harpreet Brar, Harshal Patel, Kagiso Rabada and Arshdeep Singh

    Substitutes: Rahul Chahar, Harpreet Bhatia, Shivam Singh, Rishi Dhawan and Vidwath Kaverappa

    --IANS

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    Director Sandeep Vanga slams Adil Hussain for calling ‘Kabir Singh’ a ‘misogynistic’ film

    Mumbai, April 18 (IANS) Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga, who delivered the Ranbir Kapoor-starrer blockbuster ‘Animal’ last year, doesn’t take criticism lightly.

    The director has slammed actor Adil Hussain for his remarks on the 2019 film ‘Kabir Singh’ starring Shahid Kapoor in the titular role.

    Adil had told the YouTube channel AP Podcast that he agreed to do Kabir Singh without reading the script, calling it the only film he regrets being a part of.

    “That's the only film in my life that I did without reading the script, without watching the Telugu movie it was based on. I went to see ‘Kabir Singh’ in Delhi and after 20 minutes, I just walked out. The only film that I have regretted doing to date is ‘Kabir Singh’ because I think it is misogynistic and makes me feel small as a human being,” Adil said.

    Vanga took to his X handle on Thursday and shared a clip from the interaction with Adil, saying he will replace Adil’s face in the film with the help of artificial intelligence.

    “Ur 'belief' in 30 art films didn't get as much fame to you as ur 'regret' of 1 BLOCKBUSTER film did. I regret casting you, knowing that your greed is bigger than your passion. Now I'll save you from shame by replacing Your face with AI help. Now smile properly," Vanga posted.

    --IANS

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    BJP will hardly win 12-15 LS seats in south India: Telangana CM Revanth Reddy

    New Delhi, April 18 (IANS) Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Thursday claimed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will hardly win 12-15 Parliamentary seats in the southern states in the Lok Sabha polls.

    Speaking at a rally while campaigning for Congress leader Adoor Prakash in Kerala's Attingal, Revanth Reddy said that the grand old party will win all 20 LS seats in Kerala, while it will bag at least 14 out of 17 LS seats in Telangana.

    On the BJP expressing confidence of crossing 400 seats, Revanth Reddy said even BRS president and former Telangana chief minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao while campaigning for last year's Assembly polls had claimed that he would win 100 seats but could bag only 39 seats.

    Revanth Reddy said that "similarly, the BJP is trying to confuse people, but people are intelligent and they are going to teach a lesson to the party".

    KCR has recently said that the Congress government in Telangana will not last more than a year "as nobody knows who will join the BJP and when".

    "We don't know, the Chief Minister (Revanth Reddy) himself may jump to the BJP," he said.

    KCR said while they want the Congress government to complete its five-year term, considering the recent developments, he doubts if it will last more than a year.

    He also said that all surveys showed that the Congress would not get more than two Lok Sabha seats in Telangana.

    --IANS

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    Beant Singh commanded nationwide admiration: Punjab Congress chief

    Chandigarh, April 18 (IANS) Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring on Thursday expressed disapproval over BJP’s Ludhiana candidate Ravneet Bittu claiming the Congress never respected former chief minister Beant Singh, who was killed in a bomb blast in Chandigarh in 1995.

    Warring questioned the use of Beant Singh’s image in the BJP’s election propaganda by Bittu, a rebel Congress MP.

    The PPCC chief told the media here, “Beant Singh epitomized national leadership and commanded admiration nationwide. Revered as a symbol of peace, his sacrifices resonate across the nation. However, the use of his image for political gain by his grandson (Bittu), now aligned with the BJP, is regrettable and disrespects the sacrifices of Beant Singh.”

    Warring added, “Bittu's defection to the BJP has already cast a shadow over Beant Singh’s legacy, and his actions continue to tarnish the distinguished memory of the former chief minister. Such actions are likely to dishearten the spirit of Beant Singh. The Congress has always kept Beant Singh in high regard, claims by Bittu about his statue being removed from Congress Bhavan Chandigarh are all false. We respect our leaders and martyrs, unlike Bittu who has disrespected his own grandfather.”

    “It’s imperative to refrain from exploiting the legacy of his grandfather for political advantage, and Bittu should understand it. The people of Punjab recognize and reject such tactics. The valour of our martyrs demands reverence, and any attempt to undermine it will not find favour with the public,” he added.

    --IANS

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    ‘Yamraj’ files nomination as Independent for Maharashtra’s Madha LS seat

    Solapur (Maharashtra), April 18 (IANS) A man attired as 'Yamraj', the Hindu God of Death, and riding the deity's preferred mount, a buffalo, reached the Collectorate on Thursday to submit his nomination as an Independent candidate for Maharashtra's Madha Lok Sabha constituency

    Ram Gaikwad, garbed in a gold-and-black robe and dhoti, a gleaming golden headgear with two protruding curved white horns and toting a shining mace, announced that he would contest the LS polls from Madha to enter the Parliament with the aim of saving the country from the menace of corruption, poverty, unemployment and other ills.

    He claimed that he was donning the role of 'Yamraj' to "finish" off corruption in the country, ensure Maratha quotas, prevent the misuse of central investigation agencies by the government against political rivals, the politics of hacking and breaking political parties, self-centred politics, etc.

    Gathering plenty of interesting glances from passers-by, who stopped to see the unusual spectacle, the handle-bar moustache sporting candidate’s arrival was heralded from quite a distance as over a hundred of his supporters lustily cheered and raised slogans in his support.

    As his buffalo, guided and controlled by a couple of aides, reached the Collectorate office, Gaikwad alighted with aplomb, cast a menacing glance around and then stomped inside to submit his nomination papers.

    In case his nomination is accepted, then 'Yamraj' Gaikwad will lock horns-cum-mace with two powerful contenders – Bharatiya Janata Party’s sitting MP Ranjitsinh Naik-Nimbalkar and Nationalist Congress Party-SP's Dhairyasheel Mohite-Patil, who quit the BJP last week to join Sharad Pawar's party.

    Though it was labelled as a ‘publicity gimmick’, Gaikwad’s arrival as ‘Yamraj’ not only made waves but managed to garner much attention though most decided to keep a safe distance from the God of Death.

    --IANS

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    Beant Singh commanded nationwide admiration: Punjab Congress chief

    Chandigarh, April 18 (IANS) Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring on Thursday expressed disapproval over BJP’s Ludhiana candidate Ravneet Bittu claiming the Congress never respected former chief minister Beant Singh, who was killed in a bomb blast in Chandigarh in 1995.

    Warring questioned the use of Beant Singh’s image in the BJP’s election propaganda by Bittu, a rebel Congress MP.

    The PPCC chief told the media here, “Beant Singh epitomized national leadership and commanded admiration nationwide. Revered as a symbol of peace, his sacrifices resonate across the nation. However, the use of his image for political gain by his grandson (Bittu), now aligned with the BJP, is regrettable and disrespects the sacrifices of Beant Singh.”

    Warring added, “Bittu's defection to the BJP has already cast a shadow over Beant Singh’s legacy, and his actions continue to tarnish the distinguished memory of the former chief minister. Such actions are likely to dishearten the spirit of Beant Singh. The Congress has always kept Beant Singh in high regard, claims by Bittu about his statue being removed from Congress Bhavan Chandigarh are all false. We respect our leaders and martyrs, unlike Bittu who has disrespected his own grandfather.”

    “It’s imperative to refrain from exploiting the legacy of his grandfather for political advantage, and Bittu should understand it. The people of Punjab recognize and reject such tactics. The valour of our martyrs demands reverence, and any attempt to undermine it will not find favour with the public,” he added.

    --IANS

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    UP’s glass skywalk to open after Lok Sabha polls in Chitrakoot

    Chitrakoot (Uttar Pradesh), April 18 (IANS) Uttar Pradesh will soon get its first-ever glass skywalk bridge, which will be set against the picturesque backdrop of Tulsi Waterfalls in the Markundi range of the Chitrakoot forest division.

    Built from a fusion of glass and steel, this marvel of engineering takes the form of Lord Ram's revered bow and arrow, thereby symbolising strength and valour.

    According to reports, this bridge promises to redefine the landscape of eco-tourism in the region. This ambitious project aims to elevate the allure of Chitrakoot.

    Drawing inspiration from Bihar's renowned skywalk glass bridge in Rajgir, Uttar Pradesh's glass skywalk is poised to captivate visitors with its blend of aesthetic charm and structural brilliance.

    The bridge, said sources, will be inaugurated after the Lok Sabha polls.

    Complementing the breathtaking vistas of the waterfall, the surrounding area has been transformed into a verdant oasis known as 'Kodand Van', which will provide visitors with a tranquil retreat amidst nature's splendour.

    Built by the esteemed Ghazipur-based Pawan Sut Construction Company, the bridge stands as a testament to collaborative effort and visionary planning.

    Originally known as Shabri Waterfall, the cascading beauty that serves as the foundation for the glass skywalk was recently christened Tulsi Waterfalls by the state government.

    Offering both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity, the bow-and-arrow-shaped bridge spans an impressive length of 25 m towards the abyss and boasts of a width of 35 m between its sturdy pillars. With a robust load capacity of 500 kg per square metre, the bridge ensures safety and comfort for visitors eager to embark on this thrilling adventure.

    --IANS

    amita/uk

    ‘Hotels are full, sleeping on the floor’: Two Indian wrestlers stranded at Dubai airport

    New Delhi, April 18 (IANS) Indian wrestlers Deepak Punia and Sujeet Kalkal have been stranded at the Dubai airport since Tuesday, because of heavy rains, while enroute to Kyrgyzstan’s Bishkek for the 2024 Paris Olympics qualifiers, sources said.

    Speaking to IANS, sources close to wrestlers said that the duo will take flight at 11pm on Thursday and their chances of participation in the tournament is 50-50.

    "They have been there for the past two days. Hotels are all full so they are sleeping on the floor at the airport. Their chances of competing in the qualifiers is 50-50. Maybe they will reach Bishkek just before the start of the weigh-in, only if they manage to leave Dubai late tonight."

    The Asian Wrestling Olympic Qualifiers in Bishkek is scheduled to kick-start from April 19. There will be a total of 36 Paris 2024 quotas on offer in 18 weight divisions in Bishkek.

    India has fielded seventeen wrestlers.

    This qualifier will be the penultimate opportunity for Indian grapplers to secure a quota for the Summer Games. The World Qualification Tournament in Turkey, scheduled in May, will be the final wrestling qualifiers.

    Indian squad:

    Men’s Greco-Roman: Sumit (60kg), Ashu (67kg), Vikas (77kg), Sunil (87kg), Nitesh (97kg), Naveen (130kg)

    Women’s freestyle: Vinesh Phogat (50kg), Anshu Malik (57kg), Mansi (62kg), Nisha (68kg), Reetika Hooda (76kg)

    Men’s freestyle: Aman Sehrawat (57kg), Sujeet (65kg), Jaideep (74kg), Deepak Punia (86kg), Deepak (97kg), Sumit (125kg)

    --IANS

    cs/

    Excise policy case: Delhi court sends Chanpreet Singh to judicial custody till April 23

    A Delhi court on Thursday

    New Delhi, April 18 (IANS) A Delhi court on Thursday sent Chanpreet Singh, accused in the excise policy case, to judicial custody till April 23 after the probe agency said that he is a key person involved in the transfer and use of the proceeds of crime generated out of the Delhi excise policy scam. He was produced before the court on the expiry of his previously granted Enforcement Directorate (ED) custody.

    The ED had sought his 14-day judicial custody alleging that "Chanpreet Singh is closely associated with co-accused persons and suspects such as Vijay Nair, Rajesh Joshi, and others. Chanpreet Singh is a cash handler on behalf of the Aam Aadmi Party in the Goa elections who received Rs 45 crore approx in cash through hawala operators and then distributed to the vendors, survey workers, and volunteers, etc., who were working for the AAP campaign in Goa".

    Singh was arrested under Section 19 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) on April 13.

    During the custodial interrogation, the ED claimed that his multiple statements were recorded.

    “He is found to be giving evasive replies and concealing information during the custodial interrogation,” the ED said.

    The federal probe agency while seeking his judicial custody told the court that Singh had been interrogated and questions were asked on the findings of the investigation. It is still investigating the matter to trace the proceeds of crime and involvement of the arrestee and other persons in the offence of money laundering.

    “The arrestee was confronted with the statements of different witnesses and other co-accused who have revealed the role of the arrestee,” the agency said.

    The agency also reserved its right to take further custody of Singh during the permissible period, if required.

    --IANS

    spr/bg

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    Aditi Rao Hyadri, Siddharth attend film screening together after engagement

    Mumbai, April 18 (IANS) Newly engaged couple Aditi Rao Hyadri and Siddharth were seen attending a special screening of MAMI Select, a collection of films shot on iPhone, in Mumbai on Thursday.

    The pictures from the event show Aditi wearing a black off-shoulder top with floral work and matching trousers. Siddharth was dressed in a black T-shirt, a denim shirt, and denim trousers.

    Aditi and Siddharth got engaged secretly at a temple in Telangana last month.

    They began dating after working on the 2021 film 'Maha Samudram'. However, the two always kept their relationship away from the public eye.

    Meanwhile, other celebs who attended the special screening included Kiran Rao, Jim Sarbh, Shobhita Dhulipala, Mouni Roy, Vijay Varma, and Zoya Akhtar.

    --IANS

    aa/arm

    Director Sandeep Vanga slams Adil Hussain for calling ‘Kabir Singh’ a ‘misogynistic’ film

    Mumbai, April 18 (IANS) Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga, who delivered the Ranbir Kapoor-starrer blockbuster ‘Animal’ last year, doesn’t take criticism lightly.

    The director has slammed actor Adil Hussain for his remarks on the 2019 film ‘Kabir Singh’ starring Shahid Kapoor in the titular role.

    Adil had told the YouTube channel AP Podcast that he agreed to do Kabir Singh without reading the script, calling it the only film he regrets being a part of.

    “That's the only film in my life that I did without reading the script, without watching the Telugu movie it was based on. I went to see ‘Kabir Singh’ in Delhi and after 20 minutes, I just walked out. The only film that I have regretted doing to date is ‘Kabir Singh’ because I think it is misogynistic and makes me feel small as a human being,” Adil said.

    Vanga took to his X handle on Thursday and shared a clip from the interaction with Adil, saying he will replace Adil’s face in the film with the help of artificial intelligence.

    “Ur 'belief' in 30 art films didn't get as much fame to you as ur 'regret' of 1 BLOCKBUSTER film did. I regret casting you, knowing that your greed is bigger than your passion. Now I'll save you from shame by replacing Your face with AI help. Now smile properly," Vanga posted.

    --IANS

    aa/arm

    Kiara Advani shares her love for baking: ‘Favourite Snakk’

    Mumbai, April 18 (IANS) Bollywood actress Kiara Advani, who will be soon seen in the Telugu political action thriller ‘Game Changer’ has a penchant for baking.

    The actress took to her Instagram on Thursday and shared a video of baking a cake and garnishing it with biscuits and choco chips, wearing a black T-shirt, a blue striped shirt, and a pair of denim.

    She wrote in the caption, “Baking with my favourite snakk (sic)."

    On the work front, the actress will soon be seen sharing the screen with Telugu star Ram Charan in ‘Game Changer’. The film directed by S. Shankar features Ram Charan in a triple role, leading an ensemble cast of Anjali, S.J. Suryah, Jayaram, Sunil, Srikanth, Samuthirakani, and Nassar.

    The actress also has 'Don 3' in the pipeline, which has Ranveer Singh in the titular role.

    --IANS

    aa/arm

    Sonam Kapoor serves fashion goals in new Insta post: ‘One outfit at a time’

    Mumbai, April 18 (IANS) Known for serving iconic fashion looks, actress and fashionista Sonam Kapoor on Thursday dropped a series of pictures from a new photoshoot, leaving fans in awe of her outfits.

    Sonam, who enjoys 35.2 million followers on Instagram, shared photographs from her recent photoshoot.

    In one picture, Sonam is wearing a golden coloured outfit with a multi-coloured long cape. The second snap shows her wearing a body hugging black gown with long sleeves.

    The 'Delhi-6' actress is sporting a bright blue outfit in the third picture. The last snap shows her wearing a black long satin coat and matching stockings.

    The post is captioned as: "Brightening up the world, one outfit at a time."

    One user wrote: "Fashion icon for a cause", another said: "Slayyyyy."

    A fan said: "fabulous."

    On the work front, she was last seen in 2023 crime thriller movie 'Blind', directed by Shome Makhija.

    --IANS

    sp/khz

    Adhyayan Suman embraces debauchery as Nawab Zoravar in ‘Heeramandi’ promo

    Mumbai, April 18 (IANS) The makers of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's debut web series -- ‘Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar’ -- on Thursday dropped the character promo of Adhyayan Suman as Nawab Zoravar.

    The show transports the viewers to the 1940s, into the lives of the courtesans filled with love, betrayal, power, and the fight for independence.

    The character introduction promo shows Adhyayan in a drunk state wearing a golden kurta with courtesans dancing around him.

    "Which courtesan will beguile me today? I am a Nawaab... Debauchery is my pastime and birthright. The only thing that matters is Zoravar must always be entertained," the actor says in the promo.

    The post is captioned as: "Apne Nawabi Shauq Poore Karna Uska Haqq Hai - Bas, Zoravar Ka Dil Behalna Chahiye."

    The series starring Sonakshi Sinha, Manisha Koirala, Richa Chadha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sanjeeda Sheikh, and Sharmin Sehgal in lead roles will release on Netflix on May 1.

    --IANS

    sp/arm

    Yash Pandit, Waseem Mushtaq jam on 80s-90s Bollywood tracks in between shoots

    Mumbai, April 18 (IANS) The actors of 'Aangan Aapno Kaa'-- Waseem Mushtaq and Yash Pandit share a common interest in music, and in between the shoots, the duo jam on 80s and 90s Bollywood songs.

    The show is a story of the Sharma family led by Jaidev Sharma (Mahesh Thakur) and his three daughters - Deepika (Neetha Shetty), Tanvi (Aditi Rathore), and the youngest daughter, Pallavi (Ayushi Khurana).

    While onscreen, the three daughters are taking charge and navigating their intense challenges, it is their reel husbands who have taken the responsibility of creating a lively atmosphere on the sets.

    Tanvi's husband Rakesh (Yash) and Deepika's husband Varun (Waseem) are music lovers. While Waseem had auditioned for 'Indian Idol', Yash comes from a family of popular singers. His younger sisters Shraddha and Shweta are Bollywood playback singers.

    In between the shoots and break time, Yash takes out the guitar, and they jam on the 80s and 90s Bollywood songs - a genre that both absolutely love. Cheering with them are their co-actors Samar Vermani, Ayushi, Neetha, Aditi, Kashish Duggal and Sonali Naik, among others.

    Talking about the same, Waseem said: "Music has been my passion since my school days, and I've carried it with me through every stage of life. From college band days to making cover songs over the years, it's always been a part of me."

    "On film sets, it's incredible to see my co-actors like Yash and others share that love for singing. We often find ourselves jamming together, turning those hectic shooting schedules into moments of relaxation and joy. Our connection goes beyond being co-actors; Yash is like family to me," he shared.

    Waseem added: "We share not only music but also indulge in shayari and ghazals together. There are times when I even tell my father, with whom I used to sing ghazals, that I won't sing them with anyone other than Yash."

    Yash shared: "Both Waseem and I have a passion for singing, so it's natural for us to break into songs together. Our co-actors like Neetha, Kashish, Ayushi, Ankit, and everyone from Aangan Aapno Kaa often join us to listen to our impromptu jam sessions."

    "It's all about masti and fun during our shoot breaks - a perfect way to unwind amidst the hustle and bustle of filming," he added.

    'Aangan Aapno Kaa' airs on Sony SAB.

    --IANS

    sp/svn

    Lifestyle

    Why it is important to keep your liver healthy

    New Delhi, April 18 (IANS) It is important to keep your liver healthy for the better functioning of the body, and because symptoms often remain hidden until the disease has progressed to an advanced stage, requiring surgery or transplantation, with the unfortunate potential for fatal outcomes, said doctors here on Thursday ahead of World Liver Day.

    World Liver Day is observed every year on April 19 to raise awareness about the diseases related to the liver.

    A concerning trend in recent years is the rise of fatty liver disease, which is increasingly affecting individuals as young as early teenagers. According to health experts, sedentary lifestyles, coupled with the consumption of unhealthy, and fatty junk food, have contributed to this alarming phenomenon.

    "Liver diseases can stem from various factors, including the consumption of unclean or contaminated food, excessive alcohol intake, and unsafe medical practices such as the use of unsterile needles in injections, hospitals, and blood transfusions. Regular liver function tests are essential to monitor the health of the liver and detect any abnormalities early on," Dr. Naveen Ganjoo, a Consultant Hepatologist, at Aster RV Hospital, told IANS.

    Data from the World Health Organisation shows liver disease ranks as the tenth most common cause of death in India. While early detection and intervention are paramount in combating liver diseases, often the symptoms remain hidden, leading to worse outcomes.

    Dr Monika Jain, Chief of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute told IANS that jaundice, characterised by a yellowish discoloration of the eyes and skin, serves as a prominent indicator of liver dysfunction.

    "Additionally, patients may experience itchy skin, abdominal swelling resembling fluid accumulation in the stomach, and swelling of the feet, all indicative of underlying liver issues. Anorexia, or loss of appetite, further underscores the physiological repercussions of fatty liver disease, emphasising the need for comprehensive screening and preventive measures to mitigate its progression."

    Other signs and symptoms of acute liver failure include pain in the upper right abdomen, often a sign of liver inflammation or enlargement. Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms, accompanied by a general sense of feeling unwell, known as malaise, the doctor said.

    Further, liver disease also plays a role in infertility and bone health.

    "Being an immunocompromised state, the doses of medications for liver disease have to be decreased and all the medicines are also not safe to be continued during pregnancy. Patients who have prolonged liver diseases might have problems while they try to get pregnant also," Dr Meenakshi Ahuja, Senior Director, Obstetrics and Gynaecology in Fortis La Femme, told IANS.

    Dr Ahuja added that in vitro fertilisation (IVF) could be an option in such cases.

    Bone diseases in chronic liver disease (CLD) patients have also emerged as a serious concern. Various factors such as nutrition, hormones, and genetics contribute, and inflammation remains a persistent trigger for bone diseases in CLD patients.

    "There is an intricate interplay between chronic liver disease (CLD) and metabolic bone complications. 'Hepatic osteodystrophy' encompassing osteomalacia and osteoporosis, is found in advanced liver disease, leading to heightened bone fragility and reduced mass. Osteoporosis, reminiscent of senile osteoporosis, emerges from an imbalance in bone formation and resorption, notably observed in liver cirrhosis and cholestatic liver diseases, posing a critical concern for liver transplant recipients," said Dr Deep Kamal Soni, Consultant, Gastroenterology at Indian Spinal Injuries Centre.

    Preventive measures and lifestyle modifications like adopting a balanced and nutritious diet, engaging in regular exercise, and screening for Hepatitis B and C, can be key to maintaining liver health, said the doctors.

    --IANS

    rvt/vd

    Glaucoma cases rising in India, more common among young: Doctors

    New Delhi, March 16 (IANS) Glaucoma, the third most common cause of blindness in India is rising significantly, especially among young adults, said doctors here on Saturday.

    World Glaucoma Week is celebrated in March every year to raise awareness about the importance of early detection and treatment of glaucoma.

    According to various independent studies, reports and data by hospitals, glaucoma-related blindness continues to rise in India due lack of awareness and delay in detection.

    In many cases, about 90 per cent of the time in India, the disease goes undetected.

    "Akin to new lifestyle diseases, ophthalmologists are seeing an increasing trend of glaucoma, also known as the silent thief," Dr Abhishek B Dagar, Senior Consultant, Venu Eye Hospital, New Delhi told IANS.

    "Unlike other eye diseases, glaucoma is asymptomatic till a late stage and by that time visual loss is irreversible," he added.

    In glaucoma patients, the pressure inside the eyeball rises to an extent that it can lead to damage of the optic nerve which transmits visual information to the brain.

    If untreated, it can lead to irreversible blindness, the doctor explained.

    As per the World Health Organisation, glaucoma is the most common cause of irreversible blindness across the globe.

    "Glaucoma (known as kala motia in India), affects nearly 11.2 million people aged 40 and above in India. It's the third common cause of blindness in our country," Dr Abhishek said.

    Further, Dr Suneeta Dubey, Director Glaucoma Services, Dr Shroff's Charity Eye Hospital, New Delhi told IANS that the disease, while traditionally linked with ageing, can also afflict young individuals.

    "Young people are more prone to eye inflammation. The causes can be genetic or secondary to conditions like inflammation, steroid usage or trauma," the doctor said.

    The health experts called for regular eye checkups, as early management can arrest progression of the disease.

    --IANS

    rvt/rad

    5 energizing breakfast recipes for women on the go

    New Delhi, March 16, 2024 (IANSlife) Micromanaging housework and making healthy meals for family members while juggling a work schedule is nearly impossible without some assistance.

    Biswarup Chatterjee, executive chef at Hilton Garden Inn, New Delhi, shared helpful recipes for women on the go who want to maintain a healthy diet while advancing in other areas of their lives.

    Try the following recipe to enhance your holistic diet experience:

    Aushadhi Concoction

    Ingredients:

    10 gms Ashoka

    10 gms Shatavari

    10 gms Ashwagandha

    10 gms Lodhra

    10 gms Garcinia

    01gms Saffron

    10 gms Lemon grass stem

    15 gms Turmeric fresh

    Method:

    Take 500 ml of water and soak all the ingredients overnight. Boil everything together for at least 10 minutes and strain it through a muslin cloth. Enjoy hot.

    Raggi Idly Burger

    Ingredients:

    500 gms Raggi flour

    10 gms Yeast

    1 kg Soya chunks

    500 gms Grated fresh coconut

    50 gms Roasted chana dal

    20 gms Green chilly

    5 gms Black mustard seeds

    300 gms Lactose-free cheese

    200 gms Rocket lettuce

    200 gms Tomatoes

    200 gms Chipotle mayonnaise

    50gms Onions red

    30 gms Garlic peeled

    50 gms Cajun spice

    200 ml Olive oil

    Salt as per taste

    Method:

    For raggi idly make a batter of raggi and 300 ml of water and yeast. Cover it with a plastic wrap and keep it overnight to ferment. Use an idly mould and steam the idly.

    Take 100 ml of olive oil in a pan, add onion and garlic and sauté till translucent. Add the soya chunks in that and keep cooking for 10 minutes and add Cajun spice and salt as per taste.

    Continue cooking till all the water has been absorbed. Run the mixture through a mincer to get it finer and make patties of 150 gms each. Grill the patties in a pan till it gets crisp from outside.

    For the coconut chutney- Take 50 ml olive oil in a pan add mustard seeds, chana dal & green chillies and sauté it. In a mixer grinder add the mixture and fresh grated coconut and bled it with 50 ml of water.

    Arrange the burger- Spread the chipotle mayo on the idly and top it up with, tomato slice patty, rocket lettuce & cheddar cheese.

    Serve the idly burger with freshly grated coconut chutney.

    Norwegian Salmon Gravlax & Sous Vide Egg Benedict

    Ingredients:

    500 gms Salmon fillet

    10nos Organic eggs

    250 gms Lactose-free butter

    250 gms Multigrain loaf

    100 ml Olive oil

    20 gms Crushed pepper

    20 gms Dill leaves

    30 gms Lemon juice

    500 gms Himalayan pink salt

    400 gms Sugar

    Salt as per taste

    Method

    Marinate the salmon with dill leaves and lemon juice. And cover it completely with sugar and Himalayan salt and keep it for 24 hours.

    Remove the salt and sugar coating and the moisture released from the fillet. Dry it completely using a paper towel. Slice it thinly.

    Sous vide 5 eggs using sous vide machine and food-grade plastic bags at 70 degrees centigrade for 30 minutes.

    Make hollandaise sauce using lactose-free butter, lemon juice, and crushed black pepper.

    Toast the multi-grain bread in olive oil, and top it with sliced salmon, eggs and hollandaise sauce. Use a dill leaf for garnishing.

    Hair Bless Granola Bar

    Ingredients

    100 gms Almond

    100 gms Peanuts skin less

    100 gms Walnuts

    250 gms Sunflower seeds

    50 gms Flax seeds

    100 gms Rolled oats

    100 gms Cornflakes

    100 gms Fruit loops

    200 ml Floral honey

    15 gms Cinnamon powder

    100 gm Brown sugar

    200 gms Mixed dried berries

    Method

    Crush the sunflower seeds and remove the outer shells, take all the nuts and seeds in a tray and toast it. Crush the mixture roughly and keep it aside.

    In a pan take honey, sugar and cinnamon powder and cook it until it gets lightly caramelised. Mix everything and roll it into a slab. Bake it at 140 degrees centigrade for 15 minutes and let it cool.

    Cut it into a bar shape and serve.

    Raspberry Indulgence

    Ingredients:

    500 gms Sugarfree dark chocolates

    1 L Almond milk

    100 gms Fresh raspberry

    250 gms Cream cheese

    100 gms Icing sugar

    200 gms Oats

    150 gms Dry berry powder

    Method:

    Blend all the aforementioned ingredients till it becomes smooth. Garnish with fresh raspberry and icing sugar, and serve it in a glass. The recipe is for a minimum serving of five portions.

    IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in

    --IANS

    lh/

    Balancing work and travel safety

    New Delhi, March 7 (IANSlife) In a world where the boundary between work and leisure is increasingly blurred, digital nomads have redefined the traditional employment terrain. It is indeed enticing to travel to exotic places while earning a living; hence, many Indians have embraced the lifestyle of digital nomadism. This notwithstanding, it is important to point out that in as much as these audacious globetrotters commence their journey around the globe, there is an underlying cyber security threat within this digital realm.

    India’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and thriving digital ecosystem are making it an increasingly favourite destination for digital nomads. However, this way of life poses some inherent issues around cybersecurity, which individuals must deal with if they are to secure their online presence and keep safe some confidential information. The following points underscore the key factors that Indian digital nomadic people have to put into consideration as they strive towards having a secure and worthwhile nomadic journey. India has witnessed cases of cybercrime ranging from phishing attacks to data breaches, which are becoming more frequent by the day. Awareness about the current landscape of cyber threats in India will help Indian digital nomads understand what kind of risks they face and how best to protect themselves online.

    To secure their online activities, digital nomads, who are often reliant on their gadgets for official work and social interactions, must ensure these devices are protected. Strong, unique passwords, two-factor authentication, and the regular updating of software and antivirus programs are essential measures to enhance digital security. Public Wi-Fi networks found in cafes or co-working spaces are common places for digital nomads to access the internet. Nevertheless, the use of unsecured connections can be dangerous for them. It would be wise if Indian Digital Nomads considered employing Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to encrypt their internet traffic and guarantee a secure connection.

    Every place has its traditions and rules. In addition, Indian Digital Nomads need to have cultural sensitivity as well as understand local cyber security measures and policies. In this way, they will avoid trouble with the law while travelling peacefully through various counties of their choice. Communication effectiveness is vital due to the different time zones among digital nomads who often operate in globally distributed environments. Indian digital nomads should adopt tools that facilitate seamless communication and ensure that sensitive information is shared securely.

    To handle their finances on the go, digital nomads have to depend on online banking and financial tools. The safety of Indian digital nomads’ financial information should be a priority for them as they use well-known platforms that are secure and keep an eye on their accounts for any strange movement. Fake emails and other messages that are sent to get personal information from a recipient are common in cyberspace. Any message or link may be harmful to Indian digital nomads, so they must exercise caution when receiving unsolicited messages via email. Therefore, it is important to authenticate sources to avoid such situations from happening in the future. Saving essential files is among the basic procedures one does while working online outside his/her premises. Encrypted cloud storage options or external hard disks can, therefore, come in handy for these people as they will provide security for what you work with and valuable memories of your past trips around India just in case your device breaks down or gets lost.

    Having a balance between work obligations and the thrills of travelling forms the core of being a digital nomad. Digital Nomads from India need to set up schedules, including specific hours when they should dedicate themselves to their jobs, avoiding impromptu movements during this time frame. This equilibrium enhances productivity while also promoting general health. Indian digital nomads must continually learn because the digital landscape is ever-changing. This includes staying updated with cybersecurity trends, attending relevant workshops, and acquiring new skills that will enable them to remain ready for unpredictable vulnerabilities.

    As they venture into uncharted territories, Indian digital nomads must never underestimate the significance of cybersecurity. It is a guide that assists these brave souls with the tools and knowledge necessary to travel safely through the realm of digital nomadism. Thus, Indian Digital Nomads can confidently and bravely embark on their journey only if they have strong cybersecurity systems in place, are well-informed about local regulations, and exhibit a proactive attitude toward such issues. On this protected land, as they move freely through cyberspace, among other things, their possibilities for exploration and career development become boundless.

    (Shikhar Aggarwal is the JMD of BLS International)

    IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in

    --IANS

    Shikhar Aggarwal/lht/b

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