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Saudi Arabia Pouring Money in Sports Investment: A Bid for Image Transformation

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Saudi Arabia Poruing money in sports

Saudi Arabia has decided to establish a presence in the global landscape. The country is the world’s second-largest oil producer. Under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the country aims to diversify the nation’s economy and divert attention from challenging history in human rights.

Saudi Arabia has already invested heavily in a wide range of sports such as F1 (Formula 1) Racing, tennis, horse racing, boxing, football, and many more. It also aims to reduce the dependence on oil resources revenue and change its international image as a whole.

It also has successfully attracted renowned football stars like Neymar, and Cristiano Ronaldo to join its domestic clubs through various contracts.

The Visionary Crown Prince

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, often referred to as MBS, is the driving force behind Saudi Arabia’s sports transformation. His 2030 Vision outlines a vision for a modern economy and regional power. MBS believes that sports investments can diversify the economy, attract tourists, create employment opportunities, and promote the health and fitness of Saudi Arabia’s younger generations, who form a crucial part of its support base.

Saudi Arabia is not the sole player in its quest for sports investments. Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have also committed a lot of resources to sports. Qatar hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup also added a lot of enthusiasm and investment for football in the country.

These countries have invested in English and European football clubs and are vying for global prominence in the sports arena.

Saudi Arabia’s Multifaceted Approach

Saudi Arabia’s sports investments are diverse and far-reaching. They include hosting international events such as WWE, boxing, tennis, horse racing, and Formula 1. The kingdom has also ventured into off-road racing with the Dakar Rally and made forays into international golf competitions. Notably, Saudi Arabia acquired a stake in a Formula 1 franchise and purchased the English football team Newcastle United F.C. in 2021.

While Saudi Arabia’s sports investments aim to boost its global image, they have faced criticism due to the country’s questionable human rights record and historical association with Wahhabism. Critics argue that the kingdom is attempting to divert international attention from these issues through sports.

Conclusion

Saudi Arabia’s endeavor to establish itself as a global sports hub represents a calculated strategy aimed at both economic diversification and a transformation of its global image. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s vision for modernization through sports investments represents a significant transformation for a country historically known for its oil and religious significance. 

However, the initiative also raises questions about the balance between sports investments and addressing pressing human rights concerns. Saudi Arabia’s foray into the world of sports will undoubtedly continue to attract attention and scrutiny on the global stage.

Indian Road Transport Minister Proposes 10% ‘Pollution Tax’ on Diesel Vehicles

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Indian Road Transport Minister Proposes 10% ‘Pollution Tax

Nitin Gadkari is in talks about a proposal to introduce a 10% increase in GST on diesel engines. The main objective of this proposal is to promote eco-friendly vehicles. It is called a pollution tax. 

This proposal, announced at the 63rd SIAM Annual Convention, highlights the government’s commitment to curbing diesel vehicle usage and encouraging cleaner alternatives.

The ‘Pollution Tax’ Proposal

Nitin Gadkari’s proposal aims to combat India’s pollution crisis by imposing an additional 10% GST on diesel engine vehicles. He emphasized the urgency of this measure as the primary means to reduce diesel vehicle usage in the country.

Push for Cleaner Alternatives

Gadkari called upon the automobile industry to proactively decrease the production of diesel vehicles to avoid the necessity of additional taxes. 

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He cautioned that if this reduction doesn’t occur voluntarily, the government will resort to substantial tax hikes, potentially making it extremely challenging to sell diesel vehicles in India. One can see the motive behind such actions, but it seems a bit extra for normal customers who are currently waiting for EVs to evolve. 

Nitin Gadkari said: 

“After 2014, 52% of the (number of) diesel vehicles reduced to 18%. Now that the automobile industry is growing, diesel vehicles shouldn’t increase. You make decisions at your level so that diesel (vehicle) is reduced. If it wouldn’t happen, then I would recommend to the Finance Minister that diesel is creating a lot of pollution so a 10% additional tax should be levied on it,” 

Conclusion

Nitin Gadkari’s proposal for pollution tax is aligned with India’s broader goals. These goals are about reducing pollution and transitioning to cleaner and greener technologies. However, the pollution tax is supposed to impact the sales of the automotive industry.

The government is already trying to curb diesel usage in the country. It is doing so by promoting eco-friendly alternatives such as FAME subsidies and much more. with the view to reduce environmental problems. Let us know about your take on the proposal for pollution tax in the comments below.

Nipah Virus: Two deaths in Kerala; Team of experts called by center.

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Nipah Virus: Two deaths in Kerala; Team of experts called by center.

Two “unnatural deaths” were reported from Kozhikode for which the Kerala Health Minister called a high-level meeting on Tuesday. There are concerns for the same over the Nipah Virus.

The deaths were caused by Nipah Virus as confirmed by the Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. A team of experts has been sent to assist the government in the management and containment of Nipah virus infection.

Nipah Virus

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines Nipah virus infection as a zoonotic disease. This means it can be transmitted from animals to humans and can also spread through contaminated food or direct person-to-person contact. 

Nipah virus infection can lead to a variety of illnesses in those who are infected, ranging from no apparent symptoms (subclinical) to acute respiratory issues and potentially fatal encephalitis. Additionally, this virus can cause severe illnesses in animals, particularly pigs, leading to substantial economic losses for farmers, as noted by the WHO.

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These deaths due to the Nipah Virus were reported in 2018 and 2021 respectively. The samples have been sent to the National Institute of Virology, Pune for testing. As of now, there are no further reports of the same as the samples are processing as stated in the statement from them:

“We expect the results within an hour or two. We have, however, taken all necessary precautions in case the results return positive. We have labs in the state where we can test the samples but we cannot make the declaration. The declaration can only be made by the Pune NIV.”

Course of Actions

The government of Kerala has advised people to wear masks and has also set up a control room in Kozhikode. The Kerala Health Minister, Veena Geroge said the following:

“We have opened a control room here. To coordinate the precautionary measures, we have formed 16 committees, and all the hospitals and the health workers have been instructed to follow the infection control protocol including wearing of PPE kits,” 

She has also advised everyone to avoid unnecessary hospital visits. Till then, everyone is requested to cooperate and follow proper precautions.

WWE Women’s Champion Chelsea Green Makes Demands: Approval of Opponents and More

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WWE Women’s Champion Chelsea Green

Current WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion, Chelsea Green, has sent a clear message to the WWE management by listing her demands. Green’s discontent stemmed from her booking against Raquel Rodriguez, where she suffered a loss. 

In response, she has outlined her expectations for future matches and her working relationship with WWE management.

Chelsea Green’s List of Demands

After her unexpected loss to Raquel Rodriguez, Chelsea Green expressed her displeasure on Twitter, demanding more respect from WWE management. Green’s frustration appears to be directed at WWE official Adam Pearce, who had booked her in the match without what she felt was adequate preparation.

In her recent social media post, Chelsea Green outlined her demands for competing as the Women’s Tag Team Champion on RAW or any other WWE show. Her demands include:

  • Keeping Adam Pearce at a distance of 1000 feet from her at all times.
  • The ability to invoke a rematch clause whenever and wherever she chooses, against any opponent.
  • A minimum of 24 hours to prepare for upcoming matches.
  • Approval of all opponents before her matches.

These demands reflect Green’s desire for greater control over her career and a level of respect she believes she deserves as a champion.

Management’s Reaction

It remains to be seen how WWE management, including Adam Pearce, will respond to Chelsea Green’s demands. The tension between Green and Pearce has been simmering for some time. Also, her latest demands indicate a breaking point in their working relationship. WWE may need to address these concerns to maintain harmony within the organization and ensure a smooth run for the Women’s Tag Team Championship.

Green’s Championship Reign

Chelsea Green has been carrying the Women’s Tag Team Championship after Sonya Deville, suffered an injury. She has been building her character effectively and contributing to the championship’s prestige. Green’s demands could impact the trajectory of her championship reign and her role in WWE’s women’s division.

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Chelsea Green’s demands serve as a statement of her expectations and aspirations within WWE. As a current champion, she seeks respect, control over her career, and the opportunity to showcase her abilities. 

The response from WWE Management to demands made by her will shape the future of Chelsea Green’s career. How this situation unfolds is yet to be seen.

Morocco Earthquake: Village vanishes in deadliest earthquake; Survivors say ‘Life finished here’

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Morocco Earthquake Incident

The deadliest earthquake occurred in Morocco on September 8 after six decades which left the village in ruins. The earthquake took lives away leaving the survivors with nothing. The earthquake measured 6.8 magnitude on the Richter scale. 

The village of Tikht was home to at least 100 families. But, after the earthquake, it is reduced to timbers, broken plates, and everything at a standstill. It was a small rural area where the buildings were made with a mix of stone, timber, and mortar. 

Survivors of Earthquake 

A 33-year-old survivor Mohssin Aksum had a family in the settlement and said:

“Life is finished here. “The village is dead.” “Now, people have less than nothing,” he said.

He expressed that the earthquake took away everything little that was there such as livestock. It was the thing kept by the locals but now it is buried and rotten in debris. 

Abdelrahman Edjal who was a 23-year-old student had gone out for a walk after dinner. It is exactly when the earthquake took place. He saw people trying to escape their houses. Later, he pulled his own father from the house but the injuries were serious to keep him alive. He died beside his son. 

“It wasn’t something people here thought about when building their houses.” 

Some lost their sons, daughters, fiance, husband, and even their entire families. Several of them are going to rebuild the houses after everything is settled up. Previously they hadn’t thought about an earthquake happening, but now they would think and build better with available resources.

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Actions after the earthquake

Yellow tents were seen along the roads of the town on Sunday. Camp beds were being unloaded from military-style trucks. These actions were taken by the government’s Civil Protection Service members. PM Modi also expressed his emotions and fatalities caused by the earthquake on X:

Along with them, Non-profit organizations were also present to aid in the help. They evaluated the needs of the remaining villagers in several places like Tikht. The necessities included food, water, shelter, and some other extended things.

However, a lot of individuals are still in shock about the earthquake incident and what it took away from them. A force so powerful which they never imagined came for them.

Jio & TCS to Replace ZTE, Huawei Telecomm Gear in the US

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Jio & TCS to Replace ZTE

Jio & TCS hope the demand for their telecom products will increase. This is due to the fact that they’ll be required by the US through the Rip and Replace program. Thus, it deepens the partnership and commitment between nations during the G20 Summit.

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The Rip and Replace program aims to get rid of Chinese players such as Huawei and ZTE. They need something which is responsive to changing business needs. Even small players like Lekha Wireless, Signalchip, Resonous, and many more would be able to export their radios, and telecom equipment in the US markets.

India & US at the G20 Summit

During the G20 Summit, India and the US committed to building 5G and 6G technologies welcoming Indian companies even in pilot projects. As of now, Jio is working on its “Made in India” 4G/5G stack along with radio. On the other hand, TCS is deploying a BSNL 4G network.

Rakesh Bhatnagar who is the Director General of VoICE Consortium said that:

“These local suppliers have the full potential to replace Chinese equipment players. The opportunity not only exists in the US but also in Africa and other European nations.”

Even the founder and CEO of Lekha Wireless Ramu Srinivasaiah said:

The US has a huge opportunity as there are many small telecom operators. We are ready with our 4G stack and exporting it to other countries. The next step for us is to take certification in the US.”

Several companies have expressed concerns over the increased cost of FCC Certification in the US as compared to India. Certification is essential for companies with regard to security purposes as well as product compatibility purposes.

Conclusion

Other than the Rip and Replace program, India and the US have also signed an MoU between Bharat 6G Alliance and Next G Alliance. It is a first step towards bringing the public-private cooperation vendors. 

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Thus, this is how the Indian vendors would benefit from the Rip & Replace program through the partnership made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the G20 Summit.

Asian Games 2023: India Cricket Jersey along with kit design details

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Asian Games 2023 | Team India Jersey

For the first time, India will be participating in the Asian Games Cricket Tournament. It is supposed to be hosted from 23rd September to 8th October in Hangzhou, China. Further, the Indian Cricket Team’s jersey design has come up over the internet. 

The men’s cricket event and the women’s version would be played from 27th September to 8th October and 19th September to 25th September respectively. Both the games would be played in the same T20 format. The venue preferred for now is Zhejiang University of Technology Pingfeng Cricket Field.

BCCI Announcement

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has recently announced a 15-member second string. The men’s team is supposed to be headed by Ruturaj Gaikwad. This is because Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli including other players will be playing for the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023 which starts from 5th October 2023.

While on the women’s team, the strength is full excluding Harmanpreet Kaur for the first two matches.

India Cricket Jersey Design for Asian Games 2023

The jerseys are designed according to the disclosed outfit guidelines for the Indian contingent through the Indian Olympic Association on 5th September. Following are the images as tweeted online on X:

According to several reports, the jersey is inspired by different states’s different art forms. This is meant mainly to embody India’s unity and diversity. At the center is INDIA text in bold font. Further, it includes the sponsors JSW Steel at the left. While the right embodies the IOA logo.

Both of the shades, one for the official ceremony and playing outfit look stunning. The attention to intricate design makes it stand out in both backgrounds of white and dark blue. 

The color combination is spot-on including orange around the sleeves end. Do drop a comment on what you think about the new cricket jersey for the Asian Games 2023.

Shah Rukh Khan’s Jawan to stream on Netflix soon as they acquire streaming rights/

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Jawan OTT Release 

Shah Rukh Khan’s highly anticipated movie “Jawan” had its theatrical premiere on September 7, 2023, generating immense excitement and anticipation among King Khan’s fans even before its release.

The film has achieved unparalleled success, marking the most triumphant Hindi movie opening to date. Viewers who had the opportunity to watch it in theaters were ecstatic, and “Jawan” set a remarkable record by grossing Rs 75 crore on its very first day in cinemas.

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Many are eagerly waiting for the OTT release of the film. This allows them to experience the movie in the comfort of their homes. All the audience is enthusiastic to experience from home.

Jawan Box Office Collection

Directed by Atlee, Jawan is an action-based thriller. The movie features Deepika Padukone, Sanjay Dutt, Sanya Malhotra, Sunil Grover, Priyamani Ridhi Dogra, and many more. The music composer is Anirudh Ravichander while the production house is SRK’s own Red Chillies Entertainment. It is owned by Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan itself.

“Jawan” narrates the story of an Indian individual who endured severe torture inflicted by a ruthless gang that targeted numerous vulnerable civilians. Upon escaping from the clutches of this gang, he resolved to protect society from harm. The remainder of the film centers on his pursuit of the primary antagonist and the meticulous execution of his plan to neutralize the threat.

Jawan has set fire to the box office by surpassing the 400 crore rupee mark. On the first day, it made Rs. 75 crores breaking all records. The movie has received an IMDB rating of 7.9/10 having 36,895 votes.

So, what do you think of Shah Rukh Khan’s Jawan? Have you watched it? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

Samsung Pay arrives on the Galaxy Watch 4 and 5 series. Previous issues were fixed as well.

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Samsung Pay & One UI Watch 5 Update

Samsung recently released the One UI Watch 5 Update which includes the Wear OS 4. Along with this update, Samsung Pay is added for the Indian region. It now allows for Tap to Pay functionality. 

With the new update, there was a bug. So even with Samsung Pay enabled, there was no provision to set it up. Every time a user set it up, the companion app would ask the user to check for updates even when there was no new update.

Fixed Issues

Later, Samsung fixed it by releasing a new update to the Samsung Pay Watch Plugin on the Play Store. The process to set up Samsung Pay is very simple as shown in the snapshots below.

Along with Samsung Pay, One UI 5 brings in various new features as follows:

  • Universal Gestures: These gestures get replaced by older ones and allow you to control the watch through your wrist and finger touches. 
  • New Tiles: Newly redesigned tiles and notification symbols.
  • Better Sleep Tracking along with body temperature.
  • The entire changelog is included in the Samsung One UI 5 release.

What caused the Issue?

Samsung has now rebranded its Samsung Pay to Samsung Wallet during this year. As a result of this, the Galaxy Watch series was looking for Samsung Pay rather than the already present Samsung Wallet. 

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The new One UI 5 update for Galaxy Watch 4, Galaxy Watch 5, and Galaxy Watch 5 Pro has made the watch more responsive and faster than previous versions. Several users pointed out that the animations are faster as well. The battery backup is similar with added improvements and UI tweaks.

Thus, the new update provides a polished interface which is much appreciated coming from previous versions. Do you own a Samsung Watch Series and updated to the latest version? Let us know your experience in the comments below.