India
India / Main Slide / Top News / World

Maldives President Declares No Indian Troops Presence After May 10 Amid Military Deal with China

- by Chirag Goyal

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu reiterated his stance that Indian military personnel will no longer be present in the island nation after May 10. He stated firmly, “There will be no Indian troops in the country come May 10. Not in uniform and not in civilian clothing. The Indian military will not be residing in this country in any form of clothing.” Muizzu’s remarks come in light of the Maldives signing an agreement with China to receive free military aid.

Muizzu emphasized that false rumors attempting to distort the situation should not be entertained. He dismissed claims that Indian military personnel were merely changing uniforms to civilian clothing, urging against spreading such lies and instilling doubts.

The president’s statement follows criticism from the opposition, who assert that Indian personnel sent to Maldives as civilians are actually military officials out of uniform. A civilian team from India arrived in Maldives on February 28 to assume control of one of the three aviation platforms in the nation, ahead of the March 10 deadline agreed upon by both countries for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel.

Muizzu had previously announced that the first group of Indian military personnel would be sent back from the island nation before March 10. Currently, there are 88 military personnel operating the three Indian platforms, providing humanitarian and medical evacuation services to the people of Maldives.

Reports suggest that Maldives has successfully collaborated with Sri Lanka for medical evacuation flights, signaling its determination to remove all Indian troops from its territory.

Highlighting the importance of true independence, Muizzu emphasized efforts to regain control of the southern maritime area and expel Indian troops from Maldives. He expressed confidence in achieving this goal, despite delays attributed to adverse procedures implemented without parliamentary approval, violating the Constitution.

Maldives President Declares No Indian Troops Presence After May 10 Amid Military Deal with China Read More
Entertainment / India / Main Slide / News

Shraddha Kapoor Celebrates 37th Birthday with Dedicated Fans from Across India

- by Chirag Goyal

Shraddha Kapoor’s recent birthday celebration showcased her enduring bond with her fans, demonstrating why she remains a favorite among them.

On March 3, as Shraddha Kapoor marked another year, she chose to spend her special day with her most loyal fans who had traveled from various parts of India to meet her. The actress organized a unique birthday gathering, inviting her dedicated supporters to join her. According to reports from her fan clubs on social media, Shraddha even went the extra mile, booking flight tickets for the administrators who manage her fan pages.

Numerous fan pages shared images from the event, revealing the heartfelt moments shared between Shraddha and her admirers. Her team meticulously arranged every detail, from flight tickets and lunch to return gifts and accommodation. She ensured that each admin could bring along a family member, particularly if they were female. During the five-hour gathering, Shraddha engaged with her fans, seeking their advice, and engaging in lively chats. She even sought feedback on her roles and gifted each attendee a heart-shaped necklace.


In a heartwarming exchange, the paparazzi, who often capture Shraddha’s moments, surprised her with a chocolate cake and her favorite snacks like Vada Pav and Jalebi. Grateful for their gesture, Shraddha graciously thanked the photographers for their thoughtfulness.

Despite her busy schedule, Shraddha made sure to prioritize her fans and the paparazzi. Despite attending pre-wedding festivities in Jamnagar, Gujarat, for Mukesh Ambani’s son Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant, she returned to Mumbai early to celebrate her birthday with those who support her unconditionally.

Shraddha Kapoor Celebrates 37th Birthday with Dedicated Fans from Across India Read More
India / Karnataka / Main Slide / Politics

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and Cabinet Colleagues Receive Bomb Threat Mail

- by Chirag Goyal

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah, along with Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, the Home Minister, and the Bengaluru Police Commissioner, were recipients of a bomb threat mail from an individual identifying as Shahid Khan. The sender demanded 2.5 million dollars to avert a purported planned explosion in Bengaluru.

The incident prompted the City Crime Branch of the Bengaluru Police to initiate an investigation, registering a case in response to the alarming threat.

The threatening email, received by the Karnataka government at 2:48 pm on Saturday, outlined intentions to target specific officials, including Siddaramaiah and other prominent figures. It also specified potential locations for the explosion, such as restaurants, temples, buses, and trains.

The sender, using the email address Shahidkhan10786@protonmail.com, conveyed intentions to carry out the explosion unless the demanded sum was provided. The email also ominously hinted at future explosions, with specific mention of targeting an Ambari Utsav bus.

Authorities are taking the threat seriously, recognizing the potential danger posed to public safety. Measures are being undertaken to address the situation and ensure the safety of all citizens.

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and Cabinet Colleagues Receive Bomb Threat Mail Read More
Entertainment / India / Main Slide

NTR Jr. Joins YRF Spy Universe as Indian Agent in ‘War 2’

- by Chirag Goyal

NTR Jr. is all set to make a grand entrance into the YRF Spy Universe with ‘War 2’, where he’ll portray the role of an Indian agent, adding a fresh twist to the franchise. This highly anticipated installment, also starring Hrithik Roshan, promises an exhilarating cinematic experience.

The news of NTR Jr. joining the cast of ‘War 2’ alongside Hrithik Roshan has sent waves of excitement among fans. Speculations were rife about his character, with some anticipating him as the primary antagonist. However, according to reports from Pinkvilla, NTR Jr. is set to embody the role of an Indian agent, enriching the storyline with his unique perspective.

Following in the footsteps of Salman Khan’s ‘Tiger’, Hrithik Roshan’s ‘Kabir’, and Shah Rukh Khan’s ‘Pathaan’, NTR Jr. will be the newest addition to the YRF Spy Universe as an Indian agent. His character is poised to inject a fresh energy into the spy genre, with both Aditya Chopra and Ayan Mukerji eager to explore the dynamic between him and Hrithik Roshan in ‘War 2’. The film is crafted meticulously to keep the audience engaged with its intricate plotlines and multifaceted characters.

Aditya Chopra has ambitious plans for NTR Jr.’s character, extending beyond ‘War 2’. With the vision of creating the first truly pan-Indian cinematic universe, there are talks of spin-offs and cameo appearances in future films. This collaboration marks a significant step in introducing NTR Jr. to the Hindi cinema audience in a compelling manner.

‘War 2′ stands as the sixth installment in the YRF Spy Universe, followed by an untitled film featuring Alia Bhatt and Sharvari, directed by Shiv Rawail. The anticipation further escalates with ‘Pathaan 2’, led by Shah Rukh Khan, setting the stage for the highly awaited showdown between Salman Khan and SRK in ‘Tiger vs. Pathaan’. Scheduled for release during the Independence Day 2025 weekend, ‘War 2’, directed by Ayan Mukerji, promises to be a cinematic spectacle worth the wait.

NTR Jr. Joins YRF Spy Universe as Indian Agent in ‘War 2’ Read More
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
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
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