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PM Modi enjoys ‘Bullet-Chess’ between Praggnanandhaa and Arjun Erigaisi -WATCH

By
Alina Khan
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PM Modi
PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Wednesday, hosted the Indian men’s and women’s chess teams at his residence to commemorate their historic double gold medal win at the 45th Chess Olympiad. Recently, in the Chess Olympiad, India’s men’s and women’s teams made history by securing gold medals for the first time in their respective categories, joining the elite ranks of countries to have achieved double gold in the same edition of the competition.

PM Modi enjoys bullet chess – Praggnanandhaa vs Erigaisi

The Prime Minister, a known chess enthusiast, engaged in a friendly game of bullet chess with two members of the winning team, R Praggnanandhaa and Arjun Erigaisi. Sharing a video of their match on social media, PM Modi expressed his admiration for their skills and optimism for the future of Indian chess.

In a video shared on X, PM Modi was seen enjoying Praggnanandhaa and Arjun playing bullet chess, captioning it: “Bullet Chess by two Grandmasters. Incredible! India’s chess future is very bright.”

India makes history at the Chess Olympiad

India’s victory at the Chess Olympiad marked a significant milestone in the country’s chess history. The men’s team, comprising D Gukesh, R Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, Vidit Gujrathi, and Pentala Harikrishna, defeated Slovenia in the final round to secure the gold medal.  Victories from Gukesh and Arjun gave India a 2-0 lead, securing the gold. Praggnanandhaa later won his game, and Vidit drew him, resulting in a 3.5-0.5 win for India.

The women’s team, featuring Harika Dronavalli, R Vaishali, Divya Deshmukh, Vantika Agarwal, and Tania Sachdev, also clinched gold after defeating Azerbaijan 3.5-0.5.

PM Modi’s meeting with the chess champions served as a testament to India’s growing prowess in the sport and his commitment to promoting chess at the national level.

Sundar Pichai Believes Google’s Antitrust Trials Might Drag for Years

By
Dhruv
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Google CEO Sundar Pichai acknowledged that the company’s antitrust battles could take years to resolve, suggesting that they don’t pose an immediate threat to its business. “It’s going to take time for it to play out. Where we think it really harms our ability to innovate on behalf of our users, we are going to be vigorous in defending ourselves,” he stated.

Google currently faces two antitrust trials brought by the US Justice Department, accusing the company of monopolizing the digital advertising and online search markets. The advertising trial began this month, while Google recently lost in the search case.

Commenting on the recent loss, Pichai said, “We definitely disagree with the ruling, but it’s still in the middle of the remedies phase. And you know, we will appeal, and this process will likely take many years.” To illustrate how long appeals can take, he pointed to Google’s recent victory against a €1.5 billion ($1.7 billion) antitrust fine in the EU General Court, which took over four years to conclude.

Pichai also announced a new $120 million ‘Global AI Opportunity Fund’ aimed at expanding AI education and training globally, with a focus on local languages and partnerships with nonprofits and NGOs.

Reflecting on his personal journey, Pichai shared, “Growing up in Chennai, India, with my family, the arrival of each new technology improved our lives in meaningful ways. I didn’t have much access to one growing up. When I came to graduate school in the US, there were labs full of machines I could use anytime I wanted – it was mind-blowing.”

“Kon Banega Crorepati? A 22-year-old!” – Here’s all about nail-biting 1cr win

By
Alina Khan
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Kon Banega Crorepati
Kon Banega Crorepati

In a nail-biting episode of “Kaun Banega Crorepati” (KBC), India’s version of “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?”, 22-year-old Chander Parkash from Jammu and Kashmir just pocketed a cool crore (10 million rupees) and a shiny new set of wheels!

22-year-old Chander Parkash wins 1cr in Amitabh Bachchan’s KBC

The show’s iconic host, Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan, threw a geography curveball at our young hero: “The largest city in which country is not its capital but a port with an Arabic name meaning ‘abode of peace.’ Chander, cool as a cucumber, navigated through Somalia, Oman, Tanzania, and Brunei to clinch the million-rupee question.

Did Chander answer the 7-crore question in Kon Banega Crorepati?

But wait, there’s more! Big B, clearly in a generous mood, dangled the 7-crore carrot in front of Chander. “Who was the first recorded child born to English parents in North America in 1587?” he asked. Our champion, having exhausted his lifelines and probably his nerves, decided to bow out gracefully. But when encouraged to take a wild guess, he channelled his inner Columbus and landed on Virginia Dare – and struck gold again!

Chander, who’s no stranger to challenges with seven surgeries under his belt, credited his success to a mix of Sherlock Holmes-style deduction and zen-like focus. “I just eliminated the irrelevant options and stayed calm,” he explained, making it sound as easy as ordering a chai.

Apart from winning the Rs 1 crore prize, Chander also earned a car.

As Bachchan embraced the young winner, it was clear that this wasn’t just another day at the office for the Bollywood icon. The emotion was palpable, proving that even after 16 seasons, KBC still has the power to tug at heartstrings and change lives.

Where to watch KBC?

So, next time you’re watching KBC on Sony TV or streaming on SonyLIV, remember Chander Parkash – the guy who turned a medical condition into a million-rupee condition, and showed us all that sometimes, the hot seat is the best seat in the house!

World Tourism Day 2024: Explore 10 Visa-Free Countries

By
Alina Khan
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World Tourism Day
World Tourism Day

Every year on September 27th, the world comes together to celebrate World Tourism Day, a day dedicated to highlighting the significance of tourism in fostering global connections, cultural exchange, and economic prosperity. This year, the festivities are taking place in the picturesque country of Georgia, a hidden gem nestled between Eastern Europe and Western Asia.

A Brief History – World Tourism Day

Established in 1980, World Tourism Day commemorates the adoption of the UNWTO (United Nations World Tourism Organization) Statutes in 1970. The date was chosen strategically to coincide with the beginning of the tourist season in the Southern Hemisphere and the end of the tourist season in the Northern Hemisphere. Since 1997, the host country for World Tourism Day has rotated annually, providing a platform for different nations to showcase their unique tourism offerings.

2024 Theme: Tourism and Peace

The theme for World Tourism Day 2024 is “Tourism and Peace.” As United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized in an official statement, sustainable tourism can play a vital role in promoting peace and understanding. By creating jobs, fostering inclusion, and strengthening local economies, tourism can help bridge cultural divides and reduce tensions. Moreover, tourism can promote economic interdependence, cooperation, and peaceful development between neighbouring countries.

Top 10 Visa-Free Countries for Indians

For Indian travellers looking to explore the world without the hassle of visa applications, several countries offer visa-free entry. Here are ten popular destinations that Indian passport holders can visit without a visa:

  1. Bhutan: Known for its majestic monasteries and breathtaking scenery, Bhutan offers a serene and spiritual escape.
  2. Barbados: This Caribbean paradise boasts pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and historical landmarks like Bridgetown and its Garrison.
  3. Dominica: Nature enthusiasts will find Dominica’s lush landscapes, waterfalls, and volcanic sights irresistible.
  4. Haiti: With its rich history, vibrant art, and stunning coastlines, Haiti is a hidden gem in the Caribbean.
  5. Hong Kong: A bustling metropolis with a blend of modern skyscrapers and traditional Chinese culture, Hong Kong offers a unique experience.
  6. Maldives: This tropical paradise is renowned for its overwater bungalows, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious resorts.
  7. Mauritius: With pristine beaches, lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs, Mauritius is a tropical island paradise.
  8. Nepal: Home to the majestic Mount Everest, Nepal is a haven for trekkers and adventurers.
  9. Trinidad and Tobago: This twin-island nation offers a vibrant mix of festivals, beaches, and biodiversity.
  10. Serbia: With its rich history, culture, and natural beauty, Serbia is a fascinating destination for travellers.

As World Tourism Day continues to gain momentum, it serves as a reminder of the power of travel to connect people, cultures, and economies. By embracing sustainable tourism practices and promoting peace and understanding, we can create a more interconnected and harmonious world.

Heavy Rains Lash Mumbai: 1 Dead, School Shut, Orange Alert Sounded – READ

By
Alina Khan
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Mumbai
Mumbai Rains

Mumbai, India’s financial capital, is gradually returning to normalcy after experiencing severe rainfall on Wednesday that caused significant disruptions to daily life. The city, known for its resilience, is now bracing for more rain as the weather office forecasts continued showers until October 1.

On Thursday morning, vehicular and rail traffic resumed their regular operations, marking a significant improvement from the previous day’s chaos. The heavy downpour on Wednesday had led to widespread waterlogging, halting of local train services, and the diversion of 14 flights.

Rainfall Statistics and Impact in Mumbai Rains

The eastern suburbs of Mumbai bore the brunt of the deluge, recording an average rainfall of 169.85 mm between 8 am and 10 pm on Wednesday. The island city and western suburbs followed closely with 145.01 mm and 104.17 mm respectively. Mankhurd in the eastern suburbs received the highest rainfall at 276 mm, with Bhandup and Powai close behind at 275 mm and 274 mm.

The intense rainfall caused severe disruptions to the city’s transportation network. The Central Railway reported waterlogging between Vidyavihar and Mulund on multiple lines, forcing trains to operate at reduced speeds of 30 kmph. This led to significant delays and overcrowding at railway stations as commuters struggled to return home.

Municipal Response and Preparedness

Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani took proactive measures, instructing assistant commissioners to ensure that executive engineers remain inward the control rooms. He also directed the Stormwater Drains (SWD) department to keep staff on field duty and maintain operational de-watering pumps.

Here’s what IMD said on Mumbai rain fury

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Mumbai and a red alert for neighbouring districts of Thane, Palghar, and Raigad for Thursday morning. Palghar remains under red alert for Friday as well.

IMD scientist Sushma Nair explained the meteorological conditions causing the rainfall: “A trough runs from north Konkan to south Bangladesh across a cyclonic circulation over south Chhattisgarh and its neighbourhood extending to the middle tropospheric level tilting southwards with height. This will lead to fairly widespread to widespread light/moderate rainfall over Konkan and Goa during the week.”

What are preventive measures taken by officials?

In light of the weather warnings, authorities have closed schools and colleges in Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Pune, and Pimpri-Chinchwad on Thursday. The Mumbai Police urged residents to stay indoors unless necessary, prioritizing public safety.

Tragic Incidents happened amid Mumbai Rains

Unfortunately, the heavy rainfall claimed lives. A 45-year-old woman, Vimal Anil Gaikwad, drowned in an overflowing drain in suburban Andheri. In a separate incident, three people lost their lives due to lightning strikes in Thane.

As Mumbai continues to navigate through this challenging weather, the city’s administration and residents remain on high alert. The coming days will be crucial as the metropolis balances its daily operations with the ongoing monsoon activity, showcasing the resilience spirit that defines this bustling city.

Vashu Bhangnani Suggests Netflix Owes Crores; Platform Refuses

By
Dhruv
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Producer Vashu Bhagnani has accused Netflix India of allegedly defrauding him of ₹47.37 crore. In an interview with the Economic Times, the head of Pooja Entertainment claimed that he has not received the money he is owed, though Netflix has denied the allegation.

Vashu Bhagnani’s Accusation

As per the Economic Times, Vashu Bhagnani accused the OTT platform of “cheating and conspiring against the rights” of his three recent films—Hero No 1, Mission Raniganj, and Bade Miyan Chote Miyan. He lodged a complaint against Los Gatos Production Services India, through which Netflix manages its content investments in India, Zoo Digital India, and executives from both companies. The report also noted that Bhagnani has approached the Economic Offences Wing for investigation.

Netflix’s Response

In response, Netflix issued a statement refuting the claims, stating that it is, in fact, Pooja Entertainment that owes Netflix money. The platform described Bhagnani’s accusations as “completely unfounded” and emphasized their longstanding partnership with the Indian creative industry. Netflix added that they are working with authorities to resolve the matter and that a civil dispute had already been registered against Pooja Entertainment for non-payment.

Recent Controversies

Vashu Bhagnani has also been embroiled in other controversies, including a dispute with Bade Miyan Chote Miyan director Ali Abbas Zafar. Following the film’s failure, the crew accused Bhagnani of withholding their payments. Zafar himself claimed that the producer still owes him ₹7.30 crore. In turn, Vashu and his son, Jackky Bhagnani, who co-manages Pooja Entertainment, filed complaints against Zafar, alleging that he siphoned off ₹9.50 crore in subsidy funds from Abu Dhabi authorities during production. They also accused him of extortion, coercion, and defamation.

SC Issues Order to Release YouTuber Savukku Shankar

By
Dhruv
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NEW DELHI: On Wednesday, the Supreme Court ordered the Tamil Nadu government to immediately release YouTuber Savukku Shankar, who was detained under the Goondas Act, following the state’s notification that his detention had been revoked based on the Advisory Board’s recommendation.

Senior advocates Mukul Rohatgi and Siddharth Luthra, representing the state government, informed the court that no further orders were necessary as the Advisory Board had revoked the detention order on Wednesday, September 25.

A bench comprising Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra recorded this statement and concluded the petition by stating, “In light of the above, Savukku Shankar shall be released forthwith, unless required in connection with any other case.”

The Supreme Court was hearing a petition filed by Shankar’s mother, A Kamala, who challenged his detention under the Goondas Act, formally known as the Tamil Nadu Prevention of Dangerous Activities of Bootleggers, Drug Offenders, Forest Offenders, Goondas, Immoral Traffic Offenders, Sand Offenders, Slum Grabbers, and Video Pirates Act, 1982. The detention order was issued on August 12.

Advocate Balaji Srinivasan, representing Shankar’s mother, argued that the fresh detention order was meant to prevent his release, noting that a similar order issued on May 12 had been quashed by the Madras High Court on August 9. He further stated that Shankar had exposed corruption cases within the state government, including a cash-for-jobs scandal involving former minister V Senthil Balaji, who resigned in February.

The state denied these allegations and claimed the latest detention was linked to the recovery of narcotics from Shankar’s possession.

Shankar, a former employee of the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC), later founded Savukku Media, which operates a web portal and a YouTube channel. He faces 16 FIRs in the state after making controversial remarks against female police officers during a YouTube interview. He has challenged these FIRs in a separate petition, seeking to have them clubbed together as they stem from the same interview in April. The court, on August 14, issued notice regarding this plea and stayed any coercive action related to these FIRs.

The Supreme Court also asked the state to confirm if the FIRs are related to the same interview, indicating that if they are, they should be combined. These FIRs were filed under the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Women (Amendment) Act, the Information Technology Act, and various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Rahul Gandhi Lashes Out Against BJP Kangana’s Remarks on Farm Laws; ‘Who is Deciding Policy?’

By
Dhruv
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0

On Wednesday, Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, criticized the BJP-led NDA government after remarks by actor-politician Kangana Ranaut regarding farm laws, questioning who is truly shaping government policy.

Gandhi pointed out that despite the loss of over 700 farmers, primarily from Haryana and Punjab, BJP members remain unsatisfied.

“Who is deciding the government’s policy? Is it a BJP MP or Prime Minister Modi? Even after the sacrifice of more than 700 farmers, especially those from Haryana and Punjab, the BJP is still not satisfied,” Gandhi wrote in Hindi on X (formerly Twitter).

He further stated, “INDIA will not allow any BJP conspiracy against our farmers to succeed. If any step is taken to harm farmers, Modi ji will once again have to apologize.”

What did Kangana Ranaut say about farm laws?


During an event in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, on Tuesday, Kangana Ranaut commented that protests against the farm laws were limited to certain states. She argued that reinstating the farm laws would ensure financial growth for farmers, benefiting the agricultural sector.

“Farmers are key to India’s progress. Protests only occurred in a few states. I humbly urge that the farm laws should be reintroduced for the benefit of farmers,” she said.

Her statement sparked criticism from the Opposition, with Punjab Congress president Amarinder Singh Raja calling her “habitually controversial.”

Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate also posted a video of Ranaut’s remarks on X, stating, “‘All three farm laws should be brought back’: BJP MP Kangana Ranaut. More than 750 farmers were martyred protesting these black laws. Efforts to revive them must be stopped.”

She added, “We will never allow this to happen. Haryana will be the first to respond,” alluding to the upcoming assembly elections in Haryana.

Man City Achieves Victory in League Cup Two Days After Terrible Arsenal Match

By
Dhruv
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Just two days after their intense Premier League clash with Arsenal, Manchester City fielded a heavily rotated squad but still had enough to defeat second-tier Watford 2-1 in the English League Cup.

First-half goals from Jeremy Doku and Matheus Nunes secured City’s victory at Etihad Stadium on Tuesday, as the third round continued with fellow Premier League teams Chelsea, Aston Villa, and Leicester also progressing.

Chelsea cruised past fourth-division Barrow with a 5-0 win, with Christopher Nkunku scoring a hat-trick and celebrating by inflating a blue balloon and holding it between his lips. Villa claimed a 2-1 victory at third-tier Wycombe, while Leicester triumphed 3-0 in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw against fourth-tier Walsall.

The last 32 of the competition is spread across two midweeks to accommodate the expanded Champions League and Europa League schedules. Teams like Manchester United and Tottenham advanced last week, while Liverpool and Arsenal are set to play on Wednesday.

Pep Guardiola, who won the League Cup four years in a row with City from 2018, has indicated that he won’t be taking the competition seriously this season, instead using it to give fringe players some game time.

“We are not going to waste energy on this competition, for sure,” Guardiola said.

Doku was one of only two City players, alongside Kyle Walker, to start both the dramatic 2-2 draw with Arsenal and the match against Watford. The Belgian winger opened the scoring in the fifth minute, capitalizing on a misplaced back-pass to fire home from just inside the area.

Nunes added a second in the 38th minute with a low left-footed strike, marking his first goal since joining City from Wolverhampton in the summer of 2023. Watford’s Tom Ince, son of former England midfielder Paul Ince, pulled one back in the 86th minute.

Chelsea also rotated their squad, making 11 changes from the team that started the 3-0 win over West Ham on Saturday. Nkunku scored twice within the first 15 minutes and completed his hat-trick in the 75th. In between, there was an own goal and a tap-in by Pedro Neto, marking his first for Chelsea.

Aston Villa’s Colombian forward Jhon Durán continued his impressive season by converting a penalty in the 85th minute to seal the win, adding to Emi Buendía’s opener in the 55th. The 20-year-old Durán has now scored four times in five league matches, all coming off the bench. Wycombe’s consolation goal came in the fifth minute of stoppage time.

Leicester avoided an upset against Walsall after their Premier League opponents took them to penalties at home. Leicester converted all three of their spot kicks, while Walsall missed their first three, ending the shootout early.

PM Modi All Set to Inaugurate New Metro Line in Pune on September 26

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Dhruv
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate Pune’s new underground Metro corridor, connecting Civil Court to Swargate, on Thursday, September 26. He will also lay the foundation stone for the corridor’s extension from Swargate to Katraj.

Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, informed PTI, saying, “PM Modi will inaugurate the new Metro route and perform the ‘bhumipujan’ for an additional route on September 26. Pune is poised to become one of the top urban hubs in the near future.”

Fadnavis further highlighted that over 3.5 lakh commuters used the Metro during the Ganpati festival, indicating its growing popularity as a preferred mode of transportation.

The newly operational line will commence service on September 26. Two planned extensions are also in the works, from PCMC to Nigdi and Swargate to Katraj.

The Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation (Maha-Metro) oversees two lines, while the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) manages the purple line in partnership with the Tata Group.

The PCMC-Swargate corridor, part of the Pune Metro’s purple line, stretches 17.4 kilometers and consists of 14 stations. This event will mark Prime Minister Modi’s sixth visit to Pune for the Metro project.

According to Murlidhar Mohol, Minister of State for Civil Aviation, in a statement to the Hindustan Times, “We made a promise, and we delivered. The Prime Minister initiated this project and is now present to inaugurate it.”

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar also emphasized the need for expanding metro routes to address Pune’s traffic congestion, instructing police officials to allow Metro workers to carry out work on Metro line 3 round-the-clock during public holidays.

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