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Nagpur Rains: Flooding in Nagpur, Maharashtra, Schools Closed as Precaution

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nagpur heavy rains
Image Credits: Nagpur Today

Heavy Rains in Nagpur

A City named Nagpur in Maharashtra is facing severe flooding due to the heavy rains that pounded around the region over the past few hours, causing water levels to surge rapidly at a fast pace. In a span of just four hours, the city received an astonishing 100 mm of rainfall. The leading authorities are now in a hurry to undertake precautionary measures such as shutting down schools and colleges.

Heavy rainfall during the night wreaked havoc in Nagpur, Maharashtra, leading to the inundation of various residential areas and roads. Nagpur airport reported a staggering 106 mm of rainfall by 5:30 AM, indicative of the intensity of the downpour.

Flooding Situation in Nagpur

The situation in Nagpur escalated as water entered the railway station, submerging tracks and causing widespread inconvenience to passengers. Additionally, numerous buses parked at the city bus depot were seen submerged due to the deluge.

With several roads and residential zones submerged, authorities swiftly declared a holiday for schools as a precautionary measure. In response to the escalating situation, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation issued advisories urging residents to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.

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The overflowing Ambazari Lake and Nag River led to water gushing into residential and commercial areas across various parts of the city. As a result, the teams for the rescue operation of people stranded in low-lying flooded areas were positioned. The teams included were the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF).  The city received more than 100 mm of rain within a mere four hours, causing distress among residents.

Precautionary Measures

Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Mr. Devendra Fadnavis, shared an update that the NDRF team successfully rescued more than 400 people, including 40 students from a school that serves individuals with hearing and speech impairments, from the water-logged low-lying areas. Unfortunately, an elderly woman and 14 cattle lost their lives due to the rainfall.

nagpur heavy rains
Image Credits: Nagpur Today

The Nagpur center of IMD has issued an orange alert for the district, indicating the likelihood of continued heavy rainfall for the next 24 hours. The Nagpur Municipal Corporation has declared a holiday for schools and colleges and advised residents to venture outdoors only when absolutely necessary.

Due to the increase in rainfall impacting the various regions of Maharashtra, alertness and preparedness remain essential factors to mitigate the challenges posed by the stormy weather.

PhonePe Challenges Google with Zero-Fee App Store in India

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phonepe app store
Image Credits: TechCrunch | PhonePe App Store

PhonePe Introduces Indus AppStore Developer Platform

PhonePe, a Walmart-backed fintech company, has unveiled the “Indus AppStore Developer Platform,” a move aimed at challenging Google’s dominance in India’s app distribution market. This new platform promises Android developers zero platform fees and no commissions on in-app purchases.

PhonePe’s app store is developed in India. It offers several locally relevant features, including support for third-party payment providers, support for 12 Indian languages, and a phone number-based login system.

Cost Advantage Over Google

For the first year, PhonePe will not charge developers any listing fees, aiming to attract a broad range of app developers. After the initial year, the platform plans to implement a “nominal” cost. Furthermore, PhonePe will not levy any commissions on in-app purchases, in stark contrast to Google, which charges a 15-30% commission.

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PhonePe’s move is seen as a response to concerns expressed by local Indian developers regarding Google’s delayed responses and U.S. timezone operating hours for support. The company has established an India-based team to provide support to developers and address these concerns effectively.

PhonePe Challenging Google’s Dominance

Google’s Android mobile operating system commands over 95% of the smartphone market share in India. PhonePe’s new app store offers an alternative to the Google Play Store, with a focus on localization, better app discovery, and improved consumer engagement.

PhonePe App Store
Image Credits: PhonePe

PhonePe is not the first Indian entity to challenge Google’s dominance in app distribution. Several Indian businesses and startups have expressed frustration over the fees imposed by the Google Play Store. Past attempts, including a Paytm-led mini app store alliance, have sought government intervention.

A Key Market for Google

India is a significant overseas market for Google, with over $10 billion invested in the past decade. Google reaches more than 700 million internet users in India but has faced criticism and regulatory intervention, including antitrust fines and business agreement changes.

PhonePe, valued at $12 billion, continues to expand into new categories, including e-commerce and share trading with the launch of Share. Market. This app allows users to open trading accounts and invest in stocks, mutual funds, and ETFs.

PhonePe’s Indus AppStore Developer Platform poses a significant challenge to Google’s dominance in India’s app distribution market. With a focus on localization, zero fees, and enhanced developer support, PhonePe aims to provide a credible alternative and tap into India’s vast app developer community. Google, facing regulatory scrutiny in the country, may need to adapt to this evolving landscape.

Animal First Look: Rashmika Mandanna as Geetanjali in Ranbir Kapoor’s ‘Animal’

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animal

The upcoming Bollywood movie, ‘Animal’ boasts a star-studded cast featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Anil Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna, Triptii Dimri, and Bobby Deol in pivotal roles. The film is set to hit the screens on December 1, creating buzz among fans.

Unveiling Rashmika Mandanna’s First Look

After teasing fans with the initial look posters of Ranbir Kapoor and Anil Kapoor, the makers of ‘Animal’ had another surprise up their sleeves. On September 23, they unveiled the first look poster of the film’s leading lady, Rashmika Mandanna, who will be portraying the character Geetanjali.

Rashmika Mandanna’s Debut in Bollywood

Rashmika Mandanna, a well-known name in South Indian cinema, is set to make her Bollywood debut in ‘Animal.’ Directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, famed for ‘Kabir Singh,’ the film introduces Rashmika as ‘Geetanjali.’ In her first look poster, Rashmika is seen wearing a red and white checkered saree with minimal makeup and tousled hair, hinting at a character shrouded in mystery.

‘Animal’ promises to bring back the dynamic duo of Ranbir Kapoor and Anil Kapoor, reminiscent of the Rockstar vibes that Ranbir has previously captivated audiences with. Known for his versatility and remarkable acting skills, Ranbir has already left a mark in the musical genre with his outstanding performance in “Rockstar.” Rashmika Mandanna, on the other hand, adds her fresh and vibrant energy to the cast, raising anticipation levels for this star-studded project.

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Fresh Addition to Bollywood

With Rashmika Mandanna’s debut, ‘Animal’ not only presents an intriguing storyline. It also stars from the South Indian film industry to the world of Bollywood. Fans eagerly await the film’s release on December 1. The chemistry and performances of this stellar cast on the silver screen is much awaited!

Chandrayaan-3: ISRO Awaits Signal from Vikram and Pragyan Lander and Rover on Moon

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Chandrayaan-3
Chandrayaan-3

Silence from Chandrayaan-3

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has yet to receive any signal from the Chandrayaan-3 lander and rover, Vikram and Pragyan, since their successful landing on the lunar surface.

Three days after sunrise on the Moon, ISRO remains hopeful of receiving signals from the lander and rover. ISRO Chairman S Somanath stated that they are prepared to wait for the entire lunar day, which spans 14 Earth days. During this period, continuous sunlight is available, preventing extreme temperature drops.

Somanath explained that if Vikram and Pragyan were to awaken, there would be several advantages. Firstly, they could repeat in situ experiments, potentially yielding different data over time. For instance, experiments like ChaSTE (Chandra’s Surface Thermo-physical Experiment) could be relocated to obtain new datasets from different lunar locations, enhancing the understanding of lunar terrain characteristics.

Benefits for Scientific Payloads

Even the “Radio Anatomy of Moon Bound Hypersensitive Ionosphere and Atmosphere” would benefit from probing the Moon from various locations. For Pragyan’s instruments, conducting experiments from multiple locations would provide a broader dataset. Even if Vikram and Pragyan don’t awaken, the Chandrayaan-3 mission has achieved all its objectives, including safe and soft landing, rover operations, and in-situ scientific experiments. Vikram exceeded expectations by performing a lunar hop. Awakening the lander and rover would provide a valuable bonus, but the mission’s success is already assured.

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Conclusion

ISRO continues to monitor for signals from Vikram and Pragyan on the lunar surface, hoping to extend their mission for a second inning. Regardless of the outcome, the Chandrayaan-3 mission has already achieved its mission objectives, and any additional data from the lander and rover would be a valuable bonus to enhance scientific understanding.

Tata Micron: Projects to Construct Micron’s Semiconductor Facility in Sanand, India

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tata micron
Image Credits: Swarajya

Tata Micron Collaboration for Advanced Semiconductor Plant

Tata Projects has announced its collaboration with Micron Technology to build an advanced semiconductor assembly and test plant in Sanand, Gujarat, solidifying their presence in large-scale infrastructure development in India’s manufacturing landscape.

Situated in the Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation area of Chaarodi, Sanand, this project spans a vast 93 acres of land and is a significant milestone in the Indian semiconductor industry. It is also the largest investment under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM).

Phase 1 and Technological Advancements

The construction of Phase 1 includes a 500,000 square feet cleanroom space, with plans to make it operational by late 2024. This project involves the design and construction of a unique DRAM and NAND assembly and test facility in India. Tata Projects is set to employ modern construction methods and techniques, including integrated EPC delivery through 4D BIM and hybrid modular accelerated construction.

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The Sanand factory will be designed in accordance with LEED Gold Standards of the Green Building Council and will incorporate advanced water-saving technologies, emphasizing sustainability and innovation in semiconductor manufacturing.

Bhoomi Pujan and Self-Reliant India Vision

Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, marked the groundbreaking ceremony for India’s first semiconductor plant in Gujarat, echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a self-reliant India. He expressed confidence that the construction would be completed promptly, with the first indigenous microchips expected to roll out by December 2024.

Tata Micron

Vaishnaw highlighted the remarkable growth of India’s electronic industry under PM Modi’s leadership. Manufacturing costs for mobile phones in India have surged from ₹17,000 crores in 2014 to ₹3,65,000 crores. The electronics industry, once valued at ₹1,90,000 crores, now stands at ₹8,30,000 crores. Exports have increased fivefold, rising from ₹40,000 crores to ₹2,00,000 crores. All these advancements are closely tied to the semiconductor industry, positioning India as a significant semiconductor hub.

Wrap Up

The Tata Micron collaboration to construct a cutting-edge semiconductor facility in Sanand, Gujarat. It represents a significant step in India’s semiconductor industry. With a commitment to sustainability and technological advancement, this project aligns with the vision of a self-reliant India. It also underscores the growth and potential of the electronic industry in the country.

Parineeti Chopra and Raghav Chadha’s Grand Wedding in Udaipur: VIP Guests and Security

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Parineeti Chopra, Raghav Chadha wedding
Image Credits: NDTV

Parineeti Chopra and Raghav Chadha’s Grand Wedding

Wedding Bash: Actress Parineeti Chopra and politician Raghav Chadha are set to exchange vows on September 24 in a lavish ceremony at Udaipur’s The Leela Palace. The wedding preparations are in full swing, with several pre-wedding festivities already hosted in New Delhi, including a Sufi night and an ardaas ceremony.

Udaipur Celebrity Weddings

Udaipur, with its regal heritage, has long been a favored destination for celebrity weddings. In 2021, actors Katrina Kaif and Vicky Kaushal tied the knot at the Six Senses Fort Barwara, a luxury heritage wellness retreat near Ranthambore. However, their wedding was marked by stringent security measures, including a ban on drone cameras and a no-photo disclosure agreement for guests. These measures even inconvenienced local villagers and commuters.

In contrast, the Parineeti-Raghav wedding is proceeding smoothly despite heightened security. Arvind Kumar Poswal, the newly appointed District Magistrate of Udaipur, assured that the city is well-versed in hosting grand weddings, with no significant security concerns reported thus far. Special force members have been deployed for the event due to the expected attendance of several VVIPs.

Guests to be Present and Absent 

Notably, the wedding will be graced by prominent figures from Indian politics, including Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Security measures around The Leela Palace, the main wedding venue, have been enhanced to align with the protocols associated with these political leaders.

Arvind Kumar Poswal also hinted at the possible presence of Ashok Gehlot, the Chief Minister of Rajasthan, at the wedding. However, Gehlot’s schedule has yet to be confirmed. Special forces are on duty 24×7 in and around The Leela Palace to ensure a secure environment.

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Unfortunately, Parineeti Chopra’s sister, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, will reportedly miss the wedding due to prior commitments. The families of Parineeti and Raghav will also welcome guests in traditional Mewari style. It is complete with performances of the traditional Ghoomar dance of Rajasthan.

Wedding Bash

Parineeti Chopra and Raghav Chadha’s upcoming wedding in Udaipur is set to be a star-studded event, with an impressive guest list from the political arena. While the couple’s special day promises to be a grand celebration, the city of Udaipur, known for hosting opulent weddings, is handling security and arrangements effectively to ensure a smooth and secure event.

US Envoy Reveals Five Eyes Intelligence Sharing Amid India-Canada Row

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Five Eyes Intelligence
Imge Credits: Sakshi

Triggers of an International Crisis

Five Eyes Intelligence: The recent death of a Khalistani separatist leader, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, has set off a significant diplomatic crisis between India and Canada. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s assertion of Indian government involvement in Nijjar’s killing has escalated tensions between the two nations, prompting international attention.

Five Eyes Intelligence Collaboration

The revelation made by US Ambassador to Canada, David Cohen, sheds light on the intelligence dynamics at play. Cohen confirmed that Canada’s claims were based on shared intelligence among Five Eyes partners, comprising the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. This acknowledgment marks the first instance of a US government official openly discussing intelligence sharing among these nations.

The Murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau claimed on Monday that there were ‘credible reasons to believe that agents of the government of India were involved’ in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The assertion, US envoy David Cohen confirmed today, came after ‘shared intelligence among Five Eyes Intelligence partners.

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Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen, was killed in British Columbia’s Surrey on June 18, 2023. His status as a wanted terrorist in India added complexity to the investigation and diplomatic fallout. Trudeau’s public allegations against Indian officials raised questions about the evidence and intelligence that prompted such statements.

“The United States, in response to the growing crisis, called for cooperation between the Indian and Canadian governments in investigating Nijjar’s murder. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the importance of allowing the Canadian investigation to proceed and stressed the need for India’s collaboration. The shared goal is to achieve accountability in this high-profile case.”

Antony Blinken’s Statement

“We have been consulting throughout very closely with our Canadian colleagues – and not just consulting, coordinating with them – on this issue. And from our perspective, it is critical that the Canadian investigation proceed, and it would be important that India work with the Canadians on this investigation. We want to see accountability, and it’s important that the investigation run its course and lead to that result.”

Antony Blinken

Wrap Up

The India-Canada row triggered by the allegations surrounding Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s murder underscores the significance of intelligence sharing among the Five Eyes partners. This revelation brings attention to the diplomatic complexities surrounding the case and highlights the need for a thorough investigation that involves both nations. The global community will be closely monitoring the developments in this escalating international crisis.

Rahul Gandhi Meets Danish Ali Amid Controversy Over BJP MP’s Comments

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Rahul Gandhi Stands in Solidarity

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi visited BSP MP Danish Ali in a show of solidarity following the controversial comments made by BJP MP Ramesh Bidhuri. Gandhi’s visit aimed to express support for Danish Ali amid the ongoing controversy.

Ramesh Bidhuri’s remarks targeting Danish Ali during a Lok Sabha session sparked outrage. The Congress demanded action against Bidhuri for his derogatory comments against the Muslim MP. The incident has raised concerns about hate speech within Parliament.

Danish Ali’s Privilege Motion

In response to the offensive comments, Danish Ali submitted a privilege motion against Ramesh Bidhuri. He expressed disappointment over the incident and called for action to be taken against Bidhuri. Danish Ali also hinted at the possibility of leaving Parliament if action was not taken.

Rahul Gandhi’s Message

During his visit, Rahul Gandhi conveyed a message of unity and support to Danish Ali. He emphasized that Ali was not alone in facing such challenges and that those standing for democracy were standing with him. The meeting aimed to boost Danish Ali’s morale in the face of adversity.

Congress Lok Sabha leader Adhir Chowdhury wrote to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, urging him to take action against Ramesh Bidhuri. Chowdhury highlighted the unprecedented nature of the comments made against a member of a minority community in Parliament. He called for the matter to be examined by the Privileges Committee and for punitive action against Bidhuri.

Danish Ali’s & BJP’s Response

Danish Ali condemned the hate speech directed at him within the Lok Sabha. He questioned the use of such language in Parliament and expressed disappointment in the behavior of some BJP members who appeared to endorse the comments. Danish Ali emphasized that hate speech had no place in the parliamentary discourse.

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While Ramesh Bidhuri made the controversial remarks, some senior BJP members, including Ravi Shankar Prasad and Harsh Vardhan, were present in the Lok Sabha at the time. Harsh Vardhan issued a statement distancing himself from the incident, stating that he could not hear what was being said. Ravi Shankar Prasad also disapproved of any indecent comments.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding Ramesh Bidhuri’s comments highlights the need for decorum and respect in parliamentary proceedings. Danish Ali’s privilege motion and Rahul Gandhi’s visit underscore the importance of addressing hate speech within the legislative framework. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by parliamentarians in maintaining a conducive environment for constructive debate.

Veera Browser: India’s New Contender in the Web Browser Arena

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veera web browser
veera web browser

Veera Browser

Veera, a new entrant in the web browser market, is making waves with its promise of a clean and ad-free browsing experience. This article explores Veera’s emergence and its potential impact on the competitive web browser landscape.

Google Chrome has long been the undisputed leader in the global web browser market. With a substantial market share of over 58%. Chrome’s dominance is particularly pronounced on Android devices, where it holds an 89% market share.

Against Google Chrome

Despite Chrome’s stronghold, Veera has recently entered the scene, aiming to challenge the status quo. The Veera browser is currently in its beta phase, offering users an alternative to existing options like Chrome, Firefox, and Opera.

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Veera is not the first Indian attempt to create a competitive web browser. The article mentions previous efforts and highlights the challenges faced by indigenous browsers in a market dominated by Google.

Features of Veera Browser

Veera sets itself apart by providing a clean and ad-free browsing experience, a feature likely to resonate with users seeking a clutter-free online experience. Additionally, it blocks cross-site/third-party cookies, enhancing user privacy and security.

  • No 3rd party ads
  • Browse at warp speeds
  • Fortress grade security
  • Content tailored for you from the best content houses in the country

Veera’s success could be attributed in part to its experienced team of founders. It also includes all notable individuals from the tech and investment sectors. The startup has secured funding from various sources such as venture capital firms and angel investors.

As Veera’s journey unfolds, it will be interesting to see how it competes with established players. Chrome, Brave, and Safari are the main competitors, particularly in the Indian context. The browser’s ad-free approach and privacy features could position it as an attractive alternative.

Wrap Up

Veera’s entry into the web browser market signifies India’s ongoing efforts to carve a niche in this highly competitive space. With a focus on user experience and privacy, Veera aims to disrupt the dominance of global giants like Google Chrome, sparking anticipation within the tech community and among internet users.

Internet Ban Lifted in Manipur as Chief Minister Announces Reinstatement

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Internet Ban in Manipur
Image Credits: Live Law

Manipur Internet Ban

Manipur’s Chief Minister, N. Biren Singh, has declared the lifting of the internet ban in the state, effective immediately. The government had initially imposed this ban in specific districts following ethnic clashes that erupted on May 3. While the ban had been partially lifted to allow broadband services with certain conditions, it has now been fully revoked.

CM N. Biren Singh made this announcement during a press conference in Imphal. He emphasized that the ban was initially implemented as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of rumors. Rumors in the form of videos, photos, and messages could have jeopardized the state’s law and order situation.

What caused the Manipur Internet Ban?

This decision comes on the heels of the government’s appeal for all illegal weapons in the possession of individuals or groups across the state to be surrendered within 15 days starting from September 22. The government expressed willingness to take a considerate stance towards those voluntarily submitting illegal weapons within this timeframe. After the 15-day period, security forces, both central and state, will conduct a comprehensive search operation to recover any remaining illegal weapons. Those found with illegal arms will face legal consequences.

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The ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur has had severe consequences, with a death toll of 175 people, over 1,100 injuries, and thousands displaced. The crisis also saw 5,172 cases of arson, including the burning and vandalization of 4,786 houses and 386 religious sites. Furthermore, 5,668 arms have gone missing across the state, with security forces successfully recovering 1,329 of them.

Current Situation 

The state government is taking these steps to address the unrest and violence in Manipur. The main focus is to maintain law and order. Ensuring public safety, and curbing the proliferation of illegal weapons is also a key action.

This move to lift the internet ban is seen as a step towards normalizing conditions in the state. It aims at restoring communication and promoting transparency. Further, it also reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the root causes of the conflict. The fostering of a sense of security and stability among the people of Manipur is important.