Author: Chirag Goyal
Delhi / India / Main Slide / Top News

Indian Citizen Killed, Two Injured in Israel by Lebanon’s Anti-Tank Missile

- by Chirag Goyal

NEW DELHI: An Indian national lost his life on Monday when an anti-tank missile struck an orchard near Israel’s northern border in Margaliot. At least two others were injured when the missile, fired from Lebanon, hit the area, officials confirmed.

According to Zaki Heller, spokesperson for rescue services Magen David Adom (MDA), the missile hit a plantation in Margaliot in the Galigee region of northern Israel around 11 am on Monday. “Patnibin Maxwell from Kollam in Kerala was killed in the attack. His remains were identified at Ziv hospital,” official sources stated. Bush Joseph George and Paul Melvin, also from Kerala, sustained injuries and are currently undergoing treatment in different hospitals.

The Israel embassy in India condemned the anti-tank missile firing by Lebanon, terming it a cowardly terror attack. They extended prayers to the families of the deceased and injured. “We are deeply shocked and saddened by the death of one Indian national and the injury of two others due to a cowardly terror attack launched by the Shia Terror organization Hezbollah,” the embassy of Israel in New Delhi stated.

“George was taken to Beilinson Hospital in Petah Tikva after suffering injuries to his face and body. He underwent surgery and has been kept under observation. He was able to communicate with his family in India,” an official source informed PTI.

Melvin, a native of Kerala’s Idukki district, is currently receiving treatment at Ziv Hospital in the northern Israeli city of Safed.

In a statement posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, the embassy assured that Israeli medical facilities are fully available to those injured in the incident.

“Our prayers and thoughts naturally go to the families of the bereaved and those of the injured. Israeli medical institutions are completely at the service of the injured, who are being treated by our very best medical staff,” the embassy added.

The embassy emphasized that Israel treats equally all nationals, whether Israeli or foreign, who are affected by terrorism, pledging support to the families and offering assistance.

According to MDA, a total of seven foreign workers were injured in the attack, two of them seriously. They were transported to Beilinson, Rambam, and Ziv hospitals via MDA ambulances and Israeli Air Force helicopters.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) responded to the incident by shelling the launch site with artillery.

Additionally, the IDF targeted a Hezbollah compound in the southern Lebanese town of Chihine, where members of the group were gathered, as well as another site belonging to Hezbollah in Ayta ash-Shab.

Hezbollah has been conducting attacks on Israel’s northern communities and military posts since October 8, claiming to do so in support of Gaza.

These clashes between Israel and Hezbollah have resulted in the deaths of seven civilians and 10 IDF soldiers on the Israeli side.

Hezbollah has reported 229 members killed by Israel during recent flare-ups, with most casualties occurring in Lebanon but also some in Syria.

Since October 8, another 37 operatives from other groups, a Lebanese soldier, and at least 30 civilians have also been killed.

 

Indian Citizen Killed, Two Injured in Israel by Lebanon’s Anti-Tank Missile Read More
Main Slide / Top News / World

France Declares Abortion a Constitutional Right, Becomes First Country to Do So

- by Chirag Goyal

France made a significant stride in abortion rights by declaring it a constitutional right on Monday (March 4), becoming the first country in the world to do so. Members of the French parliament amended the 1958 constitution, granting women complete freedom to make decisions regarding abortion. The amendment received 780 votes in favor and only 72 against.

According to BBC reports, French President Emmanuel Macron hailed this decision as a message to the entire world. However, anti-abortion groups have strongly criticized this constitutional change. Meanwhile, supporters of abortion rights gathered in Paris to praise the decision.

This amendment marks the 25th modification since 2008 in modern France’s constitution. People gathered at the Eiffel Tower chanting slogans such as “My Body, My Right” to express their support.

“Nobody Else Can Decide for You”
Before the voting on the amendment to establish abortion as a constitutional right, French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal stated in parliament that the right to abortion was in danger and depended on the mercy of decision-makers. He emphasized that they were sending a message to all women that they have the right over their bodies, and no one else can decide on their behalf.

Opponents in parliament accused President Macron of using the constitution for political gains. Critics argue that this constitutional amendment is inherently flawed and unnecessary. They accused President Macron of promoting leftist ideologies through this move.

France’s constitutional changes come at a time when in 2022, the US Supreme Court ended abortion rights. Following the decision of the US Supreme Court, individual states can now impose bans on abortion at their own levels. This decision has resulted in the termination of abortion rights for millions of women.

France Declares Abortion a Constitutional Right, Becomes First Country to Do So Read More
India / Main Slide / Sports / Top News

Indian Men’s and Women’s Table Tennis Teams Secure Historic Qualification for Paris 2024 Olympics

- by Chirag Goyal

CHENNAI: The Indian men’s and women’s table tennis teams have etched their names in history by securing qualification for the team events at the forthcoming Paris Olympics. Despite falling short at the World Championships, it’s their impressive world rankings that have earned them coveted spots in the Olympics for the very first time.

Currently ranked 15th in the world, the men’s team and 13th in the world, the women’s team have punched their tickets to Paris. A total of 16 teams will compete in each event, marking a significant milestone for Indian table tennis.

Sharath Kamal, a seasoned Olympian who has represented India at four Olympics, expressed his elation at the team’s qualification. “It’s a surreal moment for us, making our debut in the team event at the Olympics. Personally, this achievement holds great significance, marking my final appearance. While I’ve competed in the singles event four times, qualifying in the team event has always been a dream. Over the past two years, our focus has been on securing the team’s qualification, and we’ve finally achieved it,” Sharath told TOI.


Despite failing to qualify directly from the World Table Tennis Team Championships, both Indian teams’ advancement to the pre-quarterfinals proved pivotal. “We knew that reaching the Round of 16 in the World Championships would secure our Olympic qualification. Despite a setback against lower-ranked Poland, we bounced back strongly, defeating Kazakhstan in the Round of 32 and advancing to the pre-quarters,” Sharath explained.


The qualification in team events also carries significant weight as it grants India two direct entries in the men’s and women’s singles categories. “Team qualification has paved the way for two direct entries in the singles events, which will be decided by the federation. My primary focus will be on the team event rather than singles,” Sharath emphasized.

The 42-year-old veteran outlined the preparation plan, stating, “The federation, in collaboration with my inputs, has devised a preparation plan, awaiting approval from the Sports Authority of India (SAI). We anticipate the appointment of a dedicated foreign coach and commence training in April.”

Indian Men’s and Women’s Table Tennis Teams Secure Historic Qualification for Paris 2024 Olympics Read More
Ladakh / Main Slide / News

Indian Air Force Conducts Airlift of Patient with Critical Head Injuries in Ladakh Zanskar Region

- by Chirag Goyal

In a daring rescue operation, an Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft successfully evacuated a patient with critical head injuries from Atting village in the Zanskar region of south Ladakh. The rescue mission became imperative as continuous snowfall had severed all ground access to the remote area.

The IAF, in a statement, disclosed that the patient was airlifted to Leh on Monday, highlighting the vital role of air support in emergency medical evacuations in such challenging terrain.

The IAF also shared images of the Cheetah helicopter involved in the airlift operation, underscoring the organization’s commitment to serving the nation even in the most adverse conditions.

The successful evacuation underscores the IAF’s dedication to its motto, “Har Kaam Desh Ke Naam” (Every Task in the Name of the Nation), as it continues to provide crucial assistance in remote and inaccessible regions across the country.

Indian Air Force Conducts Airlift of Patient with Critical Head Injuries in Ladakh Zanskar Region Read More
Business / India / Main Slide

Tata Motors Demerger: Commercial and Passenger Vehicle Businesses to Form Separate Listed Entities

- by Chirag Goyal

Tata Motors Ltd (TML) announced on March 4 its decision to demerge its businesses into two distinct listed entities: one for commercial vehicles (CV) and the other for passenger vehicles (PV), including electric vehicles (EVs), Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), and related investments.

“The demerger is a natural progression following the earlier subsidiarization of PV and EV businesses in 2022. It will empower each business to pursue its strategies independently, fostering higher growth with increased agility while enhancing accountability,” stated the automaker.

In recent years, Tata Motors’ CV, PV+EV, and JLR divisions have implemented separate growth strategies. Since 2021, these businesses have operated autonomously under their respective CEOs.

On Monday, Tata Motors’ stock on the BSE closed flat at Rs 989.

The demerger will be executed through an NCLT scheme of arrangement, ensuring that all TML shareholders maintain identical shareholding in both listed entities. Tata Motors noted in a stock exchange filing that obtaining necessary shareholder, creditor, and regulatory approvals may take an additional 12-15 months to finalize the demerger.

 

Tata Motors Demerger: Commercial and Passenger Vehicle Businesses to Form Separate Listed Entities Read More
Delhi / India / Main Slide / News

Roof Collapse at Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj, Delhi; No Casualties Reported, Video Emerges

- by Chirag Goyal

A section of the roof at Ambience Mall in Vasant Kunj, Delhi, collapsed during routine maintenance work, stirring concern but thankfully causing no injuries.

A video circulating online captures the unsettling moment as debris cascades onto escalators and railings within Delhi’s Ambience Mall. (Image Source: X/@ShantanuGuhaRay)


In a concerning turn of events, a substantial portion of the concrete roof collapsed in the central hall of Ambience Mall, situated in southwest Delhi’s Vasant Kunj, in the early hours of Monday. According to reports from news agency PTI, the incident occurred past midnight, yet no injuries were reported.

Authorities stated that the roof gave way partially around 12:45 am, scattering debris throughout the central section of the mall. While fortunate that no casualties occurred, an investigation into the cause of the collapse has been initiated, as confirmed by the police.

A circulating video offers a glimpse of the unsettling scene, capturing the falling debris as it descends onto escalators and railings within the mall.

The incident adds to a string of structural concerns in malls across the National Capital Region (NCR). With the Ambience Mall’s temporary closure for maintenance and safety checks, authorities aim to mitigate any potential risks before resuming operations.

Authorities have closed the mall temporarily as a precautionary measure, ensuring the completion of necessary maintenance work before reopening to the public.

Roof Collapse at Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj, Delhi; No Casualties Reported, Video Emerges Read More
Chandigarh / India / Main Slide / Top News

Chandigarh Municipal Corporation Launches Recycled Water Distribution Project Worth Rs.71.58 Crore

- by Chirag Goyal

Chandigarh took a significant step towards sustainable water management as the municipal corporation initiated a ₹71.58-crore project to establish pipelines across the city for supplying recycled water. Within 18 months, all 1,800 parks, roundabouts, and industrial areas in Chandigarh will benefit from tertiary treated water for irrigation purposes.

With the aim of conserving potable and groundwater resources through wastewater recycling, the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation (MC) commenced the expansion of the tertiary treated water supply system across the city.

The project, inaugurated by UT administrator Banwarilal Purohit, witnessed the presence of city mayor Kuldeep Kumar Dhalor, UT adviser Rajeev Verma, local government secretary Nitin Kumar Yadav, and municipal commissioner Anindita Mitra. Estimated to save approximately 20 to 25 million gallons of potable water per day, the initiative will significantly contribute to groundwater conservation efforts.

Through tertiary treatment processes, sewage water undergoes chemical treatment and sedimentation, rendering it suitable for irrigation and related activities. This project aligns with the objectives of the City Water Action Plan (CWAP) to reduce reliance on ground and potable water sources.

UT administrator Banwarilal Purohit highlighted the project’s importance in conserving drinking water resources. Upgrading all six Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) with Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR) technology under the Smart City Mission has resulted in a notable improvement in the quality of tertiary treated water, addressing public concerns regarding foul odors.

City mayor Kuldeep Kumar elaborated on the initiative’s scope, emphasizing that all parks, green belts, road berms, and roundabouts in the city will receive treated water for irrigation purposes. Upon successful completion, recycled water will also be supplied to units in Industrial Area, Phase 1, and 2.

The Chandigarh Municipal Corporation’s endeavor marks a significant stride towards sustainable water management practices, ensuring the efficient utilization of water resources for the city’s development and environmental sustainability.

Commencing from the Industrial Area,
The Chandigarh Municipal Corporation (MC) is set to embark on a transformative initiative to usher in a greener and more water-efficient future for the city. Municipal Commissioner Anindita Mitra emphasized that this endeavor signifies a crucial milestone in Chandigarh’s quest for sustainability.

Previously, tertiary treated water was exclusively supplied from the Diggian Sewage Treatment Plant (STP). However, with the completion of this project, treated water will also be sourced from STPs in Raipur Kalan, 3BRD, and Maloya, broadening the scope of its distribution.

Entrusted to a private firm, the project is slated to span 18 months. The laying of pipelines will commence from the Industrial Area, facilitating the utilization of tertiary treated water in industries.

Initiated in 1990, the MC’s efforts to lay tertiary water pipelines initially covered Sectors 1 to 12 and 16. Over the decades, nearly 80% of the sectors have been encompassed. Currently, 10 million gallons per day (MGD) of treated water are utilized for maintaining parks, green belts, and fountains.

With plans to augment the supply to 20 MGD, the MC aims to enhance the consumption of tertiary treated water. This expansion will cater to the irrigation needs of all 1,800 parks in the city, along with providing treated water to under-construction public toilets.

In adherence to Water Bylaws, the MC mandated tertiary water connections for houses sized 500 square yards and above. While approximately 7,000 houses are eligible for such connections, around 2,000 remain uncovered.

Chandigarh, with a population of 1.26 million, currently consumes 386 million liters daily, equating to 245 liters per person per day (LPCD). Despite this, the daily consumption exceeds the estimated requirement, standing at 225 MLD or 150 LPCD, inclusive of 35% wastage.

In an incident during the inauguration event, where the sound system malfunctioned, Municipal Commissioner Anindita Mitra took swift action by suspending Executive Engineer Kuldeep Singh of the electrical department. Singh, responsible for fixing the system, failed to ensure its proper functioning, resulting in a delay. Mitra emphasized the importance of accountability, underscoring the need for adherence to protocols during such crucial events.

Chandigarh Municipal Corporation Launches Recycled Water Distribution Project Worth Rs.71.58 Crore Read More
India / Main Slide / News / Politics / Technology

“Google Issues Apology to Government Over Gemini’s Inconsistent Results on PM Modi”

- by Chirag Goyal

NEW DELHI: American tech giant Google issued an apology to the government for the unsubstantiated comments made by its AI platform Gemini regarding PM Modi, acknowledging its platform as ‘unreliable,’ Minister of State for IT & Electronics Rajeev Chandrasekhar informed TOI.

“We had sent them a notice, seeking an explanation on the unsubstantiated results thrown up by Gemini regarding a particular query on PM Modi. They replied, stating, ‘Sorry, the platform is unreliable,'” the minister revealed, coinciding with the government’s announcement that AI platforms will now require a ‘permit’ to operate in the country. “That’s an inadequate response,” criticized the minister, highlighting a concerning trend among AI platforms offering ‘consumer solutions’ during trial phases.

The minister emphasized that India cannot serve as a testing ground for AI platforms, particularly as they face increasing global scrutiny for providing biased, misinformed, or unverified results. “AI data is being released from labs straight onto the public internet, without proper testing or safeguards. Then, when caught, they apologize, citing unreliability.”

Citing Google’s Gemini as an example, he stated, “Google Gemini is a prime example. They transitioned from the lab to the public internet without fear of consequences. And when confronted, they dismiss it, claiming the information is unreliable.”

The minister underscored that the Indian government will not permit underdeveloped platforms to offer full-fledged services without proper disclosures to users regarding potential misinformation or unlawfulness.
“We’ve made it clear that the Indian internet is not a testing ground. If you’re transitioning from the lab and it’s still unreliable, you must include a disclaimer. Users must be explicitly informed through consent forms and terms of use that this platform is under trial and may produce inaccurate or unlawful content.”

The minister emphasized that AI platforms cannot treat India as an extension of their research and development laboratories. “Indian internet and consumers cannot be considered mere testing grounds. Respect for Indian consumers, our digital citizens, is paramount. It is imperative for AI platforms to explicitly warn Indian users about potential errors, unreliability, and inaccuracies in their platforms. Users must be fully aware and informed before engaging with such platforms.”



Furthermore, the minister highlighted the legal repercussions for AI platforms found violating Indian IT and criminal laws. “The Indian legal framework, including the IT Act and IT Rules, clearly delineates 12 types of unlawful content. If AI platforms generate such unlawful content, they cannot claim unreliability as a defense. Prosecution will ensue.”

The minister condemned Gemini’s dissemination of unverified and unsubstantiated results as “reckless, irresponsible, and disrespectful” towards Indian consumers. “Taking Indian digital citizens for granted will not be tolerated, and appropriate measures will be taken to address such behavior.”

The government’s recent advisory for AI-led startups underscores the importance of labeling unverified information as potentially false and error-prone. This advisory follows a previous notice issued nearly two-and-a-half months ago regarding deepfakes, in response to numerous instances of synthetically-generated content infiltrating social media and online platforms.

“Google Issues Apology to Government Over Gemini’s Inconsistent Results on PM Modi” Read More
India / Main Slide / Top News

Meet Suman Kumari: BSF’s First Woman Sniper Among 56 Male Counterparts

- by Chirag Goyal

Meet Suman Kumari, the first woman sniper of the Border Security Force (BSF), who has made history by completing an eight-week sniper course at the Central School of Weapons and Tactics (CSWT) in Indore, achieving the prestigious ‘instructor grade’.

Suman’s journey to becoming a sniper began when she volunteered for the course after witnessing the looming threat of sniper attacks from across the border while commanding a platoon in Punjab. Encouraged by her determination, her superiors approved her participation in the course.

Despite being the only female among 56 male counterparts in the sniper course, Suman’s resilience and dedication shone through, earning her the distinction of being BSF’s first ‘Mahila Sniper’. Her achievement marks a significant milestone for gender inclusivity within the BSF and is expected to inspire other female recruits to pursue similar military roles.


In an interview with The Times of India, CSWT IG Bhaskar Singh Rawat emphasized the rigorous nature of the sniper course, ranking it among the toughest after commando training. Rawat praised Suman’s accomplishment and revealed that she is now eligible to serve as a sniper instructor.

Highlighting Suman’s exceptional performance during the course, one of her instructors emphasized the demanding physical and mental strength required for sniper training. Despite the challenges, Suman’s unwavering determination and eagerness to learn set her apart, leading her to excel in various activities throughout the course.

Hailing from Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh, Suman hails from a modest background, with her father working as an electrician and her mother as a homemaker. Her remarkable journey from humble beginnings to becoming BSF’s first woman sniper serves as a testament to her grit, perseverance, and dedication to serving her country.

Meet Suman Kumari: BSF’s First Woman Sniper Among 56 Male Counterparts Read More
Gurgaon / India / Main Slide / News

Five Hospitalized After Consuming Dry Ice Mistaken for Mouth Freshener at Gurgaon Restaurant

- by Chirag Goyal

Five patrons of a restaurant in Gurgaon endured mouth burns and vomiting, necessitating hospitalization, after inadvertently ingesting dry ice served as mouth freshener by mistake. The incident occurred at Laforestta Cafe in Sector 90, where a waitress erroneously presented translucent granules, thinking they were mouth fresheners, to commemorate a birthday celebration.

Dry ice, commonly employed for theatrical effects in dining establishments and bars, is solidified carbon dioxide that poses health hazards when consumed, as it transitions into a gaseous state.

Last Saturday, three couples, Ankit Kumar with his wife Neha, Manika Goenka with his wife Pritika Rastogi, and Deepak Arora with his wife Himani, gathered at the cafe to observe Manika’s birthday. Following their meal, the waitress provided the group with what they presumed to be mouth fresheners. However, upon ingestion, the granules caused severe tongue and palate burns, prompting three of the individuals to be admitted to Aarvy Hospital.

Ankit Kumar, the complainant, recounted the distressing experience, stating that as the group consumed the granules, they immediately experienced a burning sensation, leading to vomiting and bleeding. Despite seeking aid from the restaurant staff, assistance was not forthcoming until police intervention, approximately 40 minutes later.

A subsequent investigation revealed that the waitress had inadvertently confused the dry ice pouch for mouth fresheners. Inspector Manoj stated, “We have seized the samples of dry ice and sent them for forensic analysis to ascertain why the restaurant had dry ice and how the waitress mistook it for a mouth refreshment item.”

The incident resulted in the filing of an FIR against the waitress under IPC sections 328 (causing hurt by means of poison) and 120B (criminal conspiracy). Laforestta Café manager Gagan acknowledged the error, attributing it to a mistake by the waitress and emphasizing the restaurant’s cooperation with authorities.

Dry ice, while commonly utilized for visual appeal and food preservation, poses substantial risks if ingested, potentially causing burns to the mouth, esophagus, and stomach. Restaurants and bars often use dry ice separately for specific dishes, primarily for dramatic effects and cooling purposes.

Five Hospitalized After Consuming Dry Ice Mistaken for Mouth Freshener at Gurgaon Restaurant Read More