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New Delhi, Sep 3 (IANS) Virat Kohli has reflected on the turn of events of June 4, when the city of Bengaluru’s most awaited day turned tragic as a stampede claimed the lives of 11 people during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s maiden IPL title celebrations.

Kohli, whose long awaited maiden franchise trophy in the cash-rich league, claimed the loss of the city is a part of the team’s story now and will move forward with responsibility.

“Nothing in life really prepares you for a heartbreak like June 4th. What should’ve been the happiest moment in our franchise’s history… turned into something tragic. I’ve been thinking of and praying for the families of those we lost… and for our fans who were injured. Your loss is part of our story now. Together, we will move forward with care, respect and responsibility,” read a statement by Virat Kohli on RCB’s website.

After having stepped away from both T20 and Test formats, Kohli will next be seen in action during India’s white ball tour of Australia in October.

RCB recently unveiled a comprehensive roadmap for their new initiative, 'RCB Cares', following the tragic stampede that claimed 11 lives during the team’s IPL trophy celebrations earlier this year.

As part of the foundation’s long-term vision, RCB announced that it will collaborate closely with the IPL and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) to develop stronger crowd management protocols aimed at preventing such incidents in the future.

The franchise had earlier pledged Rs 25 lakh in compensation to each of the families affected by the tragedy. Expanding on that commitment, 'RCB Cares' was introduced as a platform dedicated to "support, empower and elevate our 12th Man Army through meaningful action."

Following the June 4 stampede outside Chinnaswamy Stadium premises during RCB's victory celebrations, Karnataka government appointed Justice John Michael D'Cunha Commission to investigate the matter. In its report, the commission stated that the stadium's "design and structure" are inherently "unsuitable and unsafe" for mass gatherings.

As a result, Navi Mumbai replaced Bengaluru as one of the five venues for the upcoming ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 in a revised schedule for the showpiece event.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Sep 3 (IANS) Virat Kohli has reflected on the turn of events of June 4, when the city of Bengaluru’s most awaited day turned tragic as a stampede claimed the lives of 11 people during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s maiden IPL title celebrations.

Kohli, whose long awaited maiden franchise trophy in the cash-rich league, claimed the loss of the city is a part of the team’s story now and will move forward with responsibility.

“Nothing in life really prepares you for a heartbreak like June 4th. What should’ve been the happiest moment in our franchise’s history… turned into something tragic. I’ve been thinking of and praying for the families of those we lost… and for our fans who were injured. Your loss is part of our story now. Together, we will move forward with care, respect and responsibility,” read a statement by Virat Kohli on RCB’s website.

After having stepped away from both T20 and Test formats, Kohli will next be seen in action during India’s white ball tour of Australia in October.

RCB recently unveiled a comprehensive roadmap for their new initiative, 'RCB Cares', following the tragic stampede that claimed 11 lives during the team’s IPL trophy celebrations earlier this year.

As part of the foundation’s long-term vision, RCB announced that it will collaborate closely with the IPL and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) to develop stronger crowd management protocols aimed at preventing such incidents in the future.

The franchise had earlier pledged Rs 25 lakh in compensation to each of the families affected by the tragedy. Expanding on that commitment, 'RCB Cares' was introduced as a platform dedicated to "support, empower and elevate our 12th Man Army through meaningful action."

Following the June 4 stampede outside Chinnaswamy Stadium premises during RCB's victory celebrations, Karnataka government appointed Justice John Michael D'Cunha Commission to investigate the matter. In its report, the commission stated that the stadium's "design and structure" are inherently "unsuitable and unsafe" for mass gatherings.

As a result, Navi Mumbai replaced Bengaluru as one of the five venues for the upcoming ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 in a revised schedule for the showpiece event.

--IANS

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Chennai, Sep 3 (IANS) With viral fever cases steadily rising across Tamil Nadu in recent weeks, the State Health Department has issued a fresh public advisory urging citizens to adopt precautionary measures, including the use of masks in crowded areas.

Officials have emphasised that while the situation is under control, proactive steps are essential to curb further spread.

The department has recommended that members of the public, especially those frequenting marketplaces, public transport, or religious gatherings, should wear face masks to reduce transmission risk.

Health authorities have also urged vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and people with low immunity to exercise greater caution.

The advisory specifically requests senior citizens and those with chronic health conditions to avoid attending mass gatherings like weddings, cultural programmes, and other public events where exposure is high.

A senior official from the Health Department noted that the recent spike in fever cases has been reported from both urban and rural pockets.

While hospitals are equipped to handle the seasonal increase, prevention remains the most effective tool.

"We appeal to the public to follow basic hygiene practices, including frequent handwashing, drinking clean water, and avoiding self-medication," the official said.

Doctors have observed that most patients exhibit symptoms such as high temperature, body ache, and fatigue, which, though not severe in most cases, can cause complications in vulnerable individuals.

The department has also directed primary health centres and government hospitals to remain on high alert and ensure adequate stock of medicines.

Medical experts have reminded the public that simple measures such as wearing masks, maintaining safe distance in crowded places, and ensuring good nutrition can significantly reduce infection risk.

Meanwhile, civic bodies across districts have been instructed to intensify mosquito control drives, as stagnant water often contributes to the spread of fever-related illnesses during this season.

Local officials are also distributing awareness pamphlets and conducting health camps to educate residents about preventive care.

The Health Department has reiterated that the public should not panic but remain vigilant.

"This is a precautionary phase. If we act responsibly, we can easily prevent the spread of viral fever," the advisory concluded.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Sep 3 (IANS) Ilkay Gundogan claimed he respects that Manchester City is undergoing a rebuild and is excited to represent his childhood favourite club Galatasaray.

Gundogan joined Ederson, Kevin De Bruyne, Kyle Walker and Manuel Akanji in the list of veterans that have departed the club this summer.

“Dear Cityzens, I want to be honest with you... the reason why I’m leaving is very simple: I still want to play football as often as possible, because that’s what I love the most. I’ll turn 35 soon, but I still feel very fit and I truly believe I can continue to perform at a high level for a Champions League team.

"And not just that – I now have the opportunity to join my childhood favourite club, in a country that means so much to me.

“Man City want a new beginning after an incredible era - something I can fully understand and respect. I will never, ever forget what this great club has done for me over so many years," Gundagon said in social media post.

Gundogan enjoyed two spells with City, making 358 appearances across all competitions and scoring 65 goals.

Ilkay initially joined City from Borussia Dortmund in July 2016 and in his first stint in the sky blue, the German won 14 trophies, including a historic Treble of Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League as captain in his final season.

The German departed City for Barcelona following that memorable night in Istanbul but he rejoined the Blues for the 2024/25 campaign. However, after a solitary season back in the sky blue, he’s on the move again this time to link up with the Turkish Super Lig champions.

“Most of my time here was absolutely fantastic and incredibly successful. The club and the city of Manchester will always hold a very special place in my heart.

"I want to thank all my teammates, the chairman, everyone working behind the scenes, every fan – and of course Pep, who made this amazing time possible," he added.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Sep 3 (IANS) The Union Health Ministry on Wednesday announced plans to amend rules for the pharmaceutical and clinical research sectors to promote ease of doing business.

“The proposed amendments in the New Drugs and Clinical Trials (NDCT) Rules, 2019, aim to simplify the requirements and procedures for obtaining test licences and for submitting applications related to Bioavailability/Bioequivalence (BA/BE) studies,” the Ministry said, noting that it has also published this in the Gazette of India on August 28 to seek public comments.

The initiative underscores the government's commitment to ongoing regulatory reforms in the pharmaceutical sector.

"It forms a part of the broader efforts toward Ease of Doing Business to promote the growth of the Indian pharma industry and align domestic regulations with global best practices," the Ministry said.

"These steps are expected to increase the attractiveness of India for clinical research, thereby strengthening India’s position as a global hub for pharmaceutical research and development," it added.

The amendment proposes that the current license system for test licenses be converted to a notification/intimation system.

“Through this, the applicants need not wait for test licenses (except a small section in the high-risk category drugs) but will need to just intimate the Central Licensing Authority,” the Ministry said.

In addition, the overall statutory processing time for test licence applications will be reduced from 90 days to 45 days.

The proposed amendment also seeks to dispense with the existing licence requirement “for certain categories of BA/BE studies, which may instead be initiated upon submission of an intimation or notification to the Central Licensing Authority”.

These regulatory reforms are expected to benefit stakeholders by significantly reducing the timelines for processing applications, the Ministry said.

It will not only “reduce the number of license applications being submitted by approximately 50 per cent, but also facilitate quicker initiation of BA/BE studies, testing and examination of drugs for research, and reduce delays in the drug development and approval processes”, the Ministry added.

Moreover, the amendments will enable the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) to optimise the deployment of its human resources, thereby enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of regulatory oversight.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Sep 3 (IANS) The Union Health Ministry on Wednesday announced plans to amend rules for the pharmaceutical and clinical research sectors to promote ease of doing business.

“The proposed amendments in the New Drugs and Clinical Trials (NDCT) Rules, 2019, aim to simplify the requirements and procedures for obtaining test licences and for submitting applications related to Bioavailability/Bioequivalence (BA/BE) studies,” the Ministry said, noting that it has also published this in the Gazette of India on August 28 to seek public comments.

The initiative underscores the government's commitment to ongoing regulatory reforms in the pharmaceutical sector.

"It forms a part of the broader efforts toward Ease of Doing Business to promote the growth of the Indian pharma industry and align domestic regulations with global best practices," the Ministry said.

"These steps are expected to increase the attractiveness of India for clinical research, thereby strengthening India’s position as a global hub for pharmaceutical research and development," it added.

The amendment proposes that the current license system for test licenses be converted to a notification/intimation system.

“Through this, the applicants need not wait for test licenses (except a small section in the high-risk category drugs) but will need to just intimate the Central Licensing Authority,” the Ministry said.

In addition, the overall statutory processing time for test licence applications will be reduced from 90 days to 45 days.

The proposed amendment also seeks to dispense with the existing licence requirement “for certain categories of BA/BE studies, which may instead be initiated upon submission of an intimation or notification to the Central Licensing Authority”.

These regulatory reforms are expected to benefit stakeholders by significantly reducing the timelines for processing applications, the Ministry said.

It will not only “reduce the number of license applications being submitted by approximately 50 per cent, but also facilitate quicker initiation of BA/BE studies, testing and examination of drugs for research, and reduce delays in the drug development and approval processes”, the Ministry added.

Moreover, the amendments will enable the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) to optimise the deployment of its human resources, thereby enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of regulatory oversight.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Sep 3 (IANS) India skipper Sandesh Jhingan will return to India on Wednesday after having suffered a jaw injury in the 0-3 defeat against Iran in the CAFA Nations Cup.

Jhingan suffered the injury during the first half of the game but continued on the pitch and played the entire 90 minutes, once again proving to be a true warrior for the Men in Blue.

“Defender Sandesh Jhingan had sustained an injury during India's #CAFANationsCup2025 match against IR Iran, and has been ruled out of the remaining matches.He will return to India today,” posted Indian Football on ‘X’

Jhingan’s injury will be closely monitored as he also stands to be a vital player for FC Goa who begin their AFC II campaign against Al-Zawraa SC on September 17. The central defender was immensely important to Manolo Marquez’s side in the 2-1 win over Al-Seeb Club, which sealed Goa’s spot in the continental tournament.

In the 0-3 defeat to Iran, India defended resiliently. It took Iran an hour to open the scoring, though there was a hint of luck involved in it when Hossein Kanaani hung up a cross at the far post towards Hosseinzadeh, whose header was blocked by India defender Rahul Bheke. The ball, however, dropped kindly back at the feet of Hosseinzadeh, who finished it from close range.

The experience of Alireza Jahanbakhsh and Mehdi Taremi shone through in the dying minutes. The former produced a shot that was saved, while the latter pounced on the rebound, only to hit the upright, before Alipour sneaked the ball in at the far post, doubling the lead for Iran.

A minute later, Iran broke on the counter with speed, and a through ball from Jahanbakhsh found Taremi, who made it three for the world number 20s.

After having won and lost a game each, India will be hoping to win the final group game against Afghanistan on Thursday.

--IANS

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Beijing, Sep 3 (IANS) In a historic first, China on Wednesday publicly unveiled some of its most advanced military technology, including hypersonic missiles, electronic warfare systems, and unmanned combat platforms, during a massive military parade in central Beijing.

The event, marking the 80th anniversary of China’s victory in World War II, also featured a strong message of peace and international cooperation from President Xi Jinping, even as global tensions remain high.

Held in Tian’anmen Square, the parade featured some of China’s most advanced weaponry, including hypersonic missiles, directed-energy systems, electronic warfare equipment, and unmanned intelligence platforms, many showcased publicly for the first time. More than 10,000 military personnel, over 100 aircraft, and hundreds of tanks and armoured vehicles participated in the event.

The parade was overseen by President Xi Jinping, who also serves as the General Secretary of the Communist Party and Chairman of the Central Military Commission. In his keynote speech, Xi highlighted the historical significance of the victory, calling it “China’s first complete triumph against foreign aggression in modern times”.

“The Chinese people made a major contribution to the salvation of human civilisation and the defence of world peace,” Xi said, urging nations to “eliminate the root causes of war” and prevent the repetition of historical tragedies.

Xi was joined on the Tian’anmen Rostrum by over two dozen world leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, and dignitaries from Iran, Malaysia, Pakistan, Nepal, Maldives, Myanmar, Indonesia, Mongolia, Zimbabwe, and Central Asian countries.

This was only the second time since 2015 that China has held such a large-scale military parade to mark Victory Day. Towering installations resembling the Great Wall stood in the square, symbolising Chinese resilience during wartime. Helicopters flew banners reading “Justice Prevails”, “Peace Prevails”, and “The People Prevail” as troops marched in precision formations.

Spectators and veterans witnessed 80 commemorative banners honouring historic military units from the war.

China’s resistance, which began in 1931, was the earliest and one of the longest among Allied nations, with the country tying down more than half of Japan’s overseas forces and suffering 35 million casualties, roughly a third of total global losses in WWII.

Representatives from countries that supported China during the war, including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, and Canada, were also invited.

For the first time, Chinese peacekeepers, who served under the United Nations, were included in the formations, reflecting China’s growing global defence posture. A soldier who had served in the Democratic Republic of the Congo said, “We have the capability to defend the peace forged with the blood of our forefathers.”

Xi also emphasised that the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) must provide strategic support for China's rejuvenation and modernisation, in line with the nation’s long-term goal to become a fully modern socialist country by 2035.

“Eighty years ago, we were revived. Eighty years later, we are thriving with even greater vitality,” said Lyu Shouye, a graduate student and spectator at the event.

--IANS

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Chennai, Sep 3 (IANS) Traditional artisans in Kancheepuram are facing a severe livelihood crisis after thousands of 'golu dolls', worth several crores of rupees, remain unsold due to the recent 50 per cent additional import duty imposed by the US.

Every year, Indian families living abroad, particularly in the US, place bulk orders for the golu dolls during Navaratri to recreate the festive atmosphere of home. But this year, the steep duty has discouraged purchases, leaving artisans in Tamil Nadu struggling with stockpiles of unsold products.

Around 50 families across four streets near the historic Varadaraja Perumal temple in Kancheepuram have been engaged in golu doll-making for four to five generations. The craft is their sole livelihood, with dolls traditionally sold across Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states such as Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Kerala.

In recent decades, exports to the US, Canada, Germany, and the UK have provided crucial income, with the US standing out as the largest overseas market.

“NRIs in the US always placed bulk orders for Navaratri. The income from foreign buyers is much higher than domestic sales. This year, because of the additional import duty, people are hesitant to order, and our sales have crashed,” said a doll maker.

To make matters worse, courier and postal services to the US have suspended shipments, leaving consignments stranded in Kancheepuram.

With Navaratri approaching, thousands of dolls, painstakingly crafted over months, are piled up in workshops and storerooms. For these artisans, festival seasons like Krishna Jayanthi, Vinayaka Chaturthi, and Navaratri usually bring the bulk of their annual earnings.

The sudden disruption has left them in deep financial distress. Many fear that without urgent intervention, their centuries-old tradition of doll-making could fade away. The artisans have appealed to both the state and the Central governments for support. They urged government-run handicraft bodies to purchase dolls in bulk to rescue their unsold stock and called for subsidies similar to those given to fishermen during the annual fishing ban.

“Navaratri is around the corner, and we are sitting with unsold dolls worth crores. Without help, we don’t know how to survive,” lamented one artisan, summing up the uncertainty clouding their future.

--IANS

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Washington, Sep 3 (IANS) US President Donald Trump on Wednesday launched a blistering attack on Chinese President Xi Jinping for hosting Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at a grand military parade in Beijing.

In a strongly worded post on Truth Social, Trump accused the trio of "conspiring against the United States" and questioned whether China would acknowledge the American soldiers who "gave their blood" to help liberate the country during World War II.

The event was held to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

In a post that was part condemnation and part sarcasm, Trump questioned whether China would acknowledge the role the United States played in helping liberate it from Japanese occupation during World War II.

“The big question to be answered is whether or not President Xi of China will mention the massive amount of support and 'blood' that The United States of America gave to China in order to help it to secure its FREEDOM from a very unfriendly foreign invader,” Trump wrote.

“Many Americans died in China’s quest for Victory and Glory. I hope that they are rightfully Honored and Remembered for their Bravery and Sacrifice! May President Xi and the wonderful people of China have a great and lasting day of celebration,” he added.

In a striking closing line, Trump quipped: “Please give my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un, as you conspire against The United States of America.”

Trump’s remarks come as Beijing hosts an elaborate military parade featuring some of its closest allies, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Footage from the event showed Kim shaking hands with Xi, in a rare public appearance outside North Korea. Xi was also seen warmly greeting Putin, following their recent meeting at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin.

The parade marks eight decades since the end of World War II, during which China suffered immense casualties during its fight against imperial Japan.

The US and China were wartime allies in the 1930s and 1940s, before relations eventually soured during the Cold War and again in recent years over trade, technology, and global influence.

--IANS

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