The Indian Panorama

Month: July 2022

  • Indian-origin Attorney General Suella Braverman is an early contender for UK PM race

    Indian-origin Attorney General Suella Braverman is an early contender for UK PM race

    LONDON (TIP): Even before Boris Johnson stepped out of 10 Downing Street on Thursday, July 7,  to deliver his resignation speech as Conservative Party leader and triggering a leadership race for a new British prime minister, at least one Indian-origin candidate is already lined up to compete for the “best job in the world”. Goan-origin Suella Braverman, currently the Attorney General in the UK Cabinet, is among the early Tory members of Parliament to formally declare her leadership bid, with other Indian-origin colleagues Cabinet minister Rishi Sunak and Home Secretary Priti Patel also seen as possible contenders for the top job. The 42-year-old barrister and the government’s senior-most legal official is likely to command some support within the pro-Brexit wing of her party. “I am putting myself forward because I believe that the 2019 manifesto is fit for purpose, presents a bold and inspiring vision for our country and I want to deliver on the promises contained in that manifesto. I want to embed the opportunities of Brexit and tidy up the outstanding issues… and cut taxes,” said Braverman.

    Her pitch came just hours before Johnson made his resignation speech, in which he said: “I want you to know how sad I am to be giving up the best job in the world. But them’s the breaks.” Another fellow staunch Brexiteer, Steve Baker, declared on air soon after that he intends to throw his hat in the ring. He is an influential Tory backbencher who served as chair of the European Research Group, in favor of a hard Brexit deal. But both Braverman and Baker are largely seen as outliers and now with Johnson’s formal resignation, the other more serious bids are expected to start pouring in thick and fast.

    In a latest YouGov poll of Tory party members in ‘The Daily Telegraph’, UK Defense Secretary Ben Wallace has emerged as the frontrunner to become the next prime minister. The party’s 1922 Committee is responsible for setting the timetable for a Tory leadership contest. To take part in the race, a Tory MP has to be nominated by eight colleagues. If more than two MPs put themselves forward and secure enough nominations to run for leader, a series of secret ballots are held to whittle them down.

    The YouGov survey indicates that Wallace may be in pole position if he chooses to contest and then makes it to the final two candidates. He is on 13 per cent, just ahead of junior minister Penny Mordaunt on 12 per cent. Former UK Chancellor Sunak, the British Indian minister who stepped down on Tuesday, is also seen as a contender and is at 10 per cent in the survey.

    Sunak, 42, was long seen as an heir apparent to Johnson at 10 Downing Street due to his hugely popular grants and job-saving schemes over the course of the Covid pandemic lockdowns. But that popularity began taking a hit within a staunchly low-tax Tory party in recent months, as the cost-of-living crisis hit and he was unapologetic about the need to raise certain taxes to cope with the tough economic times. Former foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt, who came second in the 2019 Conservative leadership contest, is on a joint 5 per cent, alongside the new Chancellor, Nadhim Zahawi.

    Zahawi, former Health and Education Secretary and most recently Chancellor in the Boris Johnson Cabinet, is believed to have already been working with Australian political strategist Sir Lynton Crosby – the man behind Johnson’s thumping general electoral win in December 2019. The 55-year-old Iraqi refugee, who arrived in the UK as an 11-year-old boy, is yet to formally declare his intention to vie for the top job but is seen as a serious contender.

    UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss is another key contender, who is also believed to have been lining up her leadership bid over the last few months. She’s currently at 8 per cent in the YouGov poll. Former Health Secretary, Sajid Javid, the Pakistani-origin minister who was the first to resign from Cabinet this week is also seen as someone who might throw his hat in the ring. Some of the other Conservative Party names doing the rounds include House of Commons Foreign Affairs Select Committee chair Tom Tugendhat, Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab and recently sacked Cabinet minister Michael Gove. The final shortlist of candidates is expected to go head-to-head in a debate until a vote between the final two decides on the winner, who will be the new Conservative Party leader and formally succeed Johnson as the new British prime minister.

    (Source: PTI)

  • Brittney Griner Pleads Guilty to Drug Charges in Russia

    Brittney Griner Pleads Guilty to Drug Charges in Russia

    MOSCOW (TIP): The detained American basketball star Brittney Griner pleaded guilty to drug charges in a court near Moscow on Thursday, July 7,  her lawyer said. “I’d like to plead guilty, your honor. But there was no intent. I didn’t want to break the law,” Ms. Griner said in English, which was then translated into Russian, Reuters reported. Ms. Griner has been detained in Russia since Feb. 17, accused by the Russian authorities of having a vape cartridge with hashish oil in her luggage at an airport near Moscow. Aleksandr Boikov, her lawyer, said cartridges appeared in Ms. Griner’s luggage “because of carelessness.” “She pleaded guilty, stressing that she was carrying substances prohibited in Russia unintentionally, because she was packing in a hurry,” Mr. Boikov said. If Ms. Griner is convicted, she could face up to 10 years in a Russian penal colony. Her guilty plea came hours after a top Russian diplomat lashed out at the Biden administration for trying to “foment hype” around her case. The Russian diplomat, Sergei A. Ryabkov, the deputy foreign minister, said that the publicity around the case was not helping Ms. Griner, who American officials say is essentially a hostage taken by President Vladimir V. Putin in the run-up to the war in Ukraine. Mr. Ryabkov indicated that Moscow would be prepared to negotiate her fate, but only after the court reached a verdict on the drug charges that were brought against her. “We have a long-established form of discussing these matters,” Mr. Ryabkov told reporters on Thursday in Moscow, according to the Interfax news agency. “The American side’s attempts to foment hype and make noise in the public environment are understandable, but they don’t help to practically resolve issues.” After her trial began last week, Ms. Griner sent a handwritten letter to Mr. Biden asking him not to “forget about” her and other American detainees overseas. Mr. Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris spoke on Wednesday with Ms. Griner’s wife, Cherelle Griner, according to a statement released by the White House. During the call, the statement said, the president read a draft of a letter that he planned to send to Brittney Griner. He also said that his administration was pursuing “every avenue to bring Brittney home.” Speaking outside the courtroom on Thursday, Elizabeth Rood, the chargé d’affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, said she had spoken to Ms. Griner and she had been able to read the president’s letter.

    “She said that she’s eating well, she’s able to read books, and under the circumstances, she’s doing well,” Ms. Rood said, according to a video posted on Twitter by an NPR correspondent. She added: “I would like again to emphasize the commitment of the U.S. government at the very highest level to bring home safely Ms. Griner and all U.S. citizens wrongfully detained.” Cherelle Griner has publicly expressed frustration with Mr. Biden and his administration’s efforts to secure her wife’s release. In a statement to The New York Times on Wednesday, Cherelle Griner said she was grateful to Mr. Biden and Ms. Harris “for the time they spent with me and for the commitment they expressed to getting B.G. home.”

    The United States government has classified Brittney Griner as “wrongfully detained” and is working to secure her release regardless of the outcome of the trial. While the Kremlin claims it has no involvement in Ms. Griner’s case, Russian state media reports have indicated that Moscow may press the United States to free a Russian in American custody — like the convicted arms dealer Viktor Bout — in exchange for her freedom.

    Mr. Ryabkov said that until the conclusion of Ms. Griner’s case, “there are no formal procedural grounds” to discuss further steps. He hinted, however, that Moscow was interested in negotiating over her fate, claiming that she would be helped by “a serious reading by the American side of the signals that they received from Russia, from Moscow, through specialized channels.” He did not specify what those signals were, but insisted that talks on Ms. Griner’s fate should take place out of the public eye, according to Russian news reports.

    (Source: Agencies)

  • India second largest country of birth for naturalized US citizens

    India second largest country of birth for naturalized US citizens

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): The United States welcomed 661,500 new citizens as of June 15 in the fiscal year 2022, with India the second largest country of birth for naturalized American citizens in the first quarter after Mexico. “Throughout our nation’s history, the promise of both life and liberty, and the freedom to pursue happiness, is what has drawn millions from across the globe to call America their home,” US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director M Jaddou said on Friday, July 1. In Fiscal Year 2021, the USCIS welcomed 8,55,000 new US citizens. In Fiscal Year 2022, the USCIS has welcomed 6,61,500 new US citizens as of June 15 and made significant progress in reducing our naturalization pending queues, the agency said.

    The USCIS said it would celebrate Independence Day this year by welcoming more than 6,600 new citizens in more than 140 naturalization ceremonies between July 1 and July 8. The US celebrates its Independence Day on July 4. According to the US Homeland Security, 34 per cent of naturalizations in FY 2022 Q1 consisted of persons from the top five countries of nationality: Mexico (24,508), India (12,928), the Philippines (11,316), Cuba (10,689), and the Dominican Republic (7,046). During this period, the US welcomed 1,97,148 new citizens. In FY 2021 Q1, the top five countries of nationality (Mexico, India, Cuba, the Philippines, and China) accounted for 35 per cent of naturalizations, it said. The US federal government’s fiscal year runs from October 1 to September 30. “At the USCIS, our belief in the promise of America is renewed daily as we work to welcome immigrants as our fellow citizens,” said Jaddou, adding “our country will be stronger and more diverse because of the choice they have made.” Among the top countries of birth for persons naturalizing in 2020, Mexico was the leading country (13 per cent of the total), followed by India (7.7 per cent), the Philippines (5.3 per cent), Cuba (5.0 per cent), and China (4.2 per cent).

  • Boris Johnson resigns in the face of a virtual revolt in the government and Tory Party

    Boris Johnson resigns in the face of a virtual revolt in the government and Tory Party

    The race to succeed Johnson has already started

    I.S. Saluja

    LONDON (TIP): Boris Johnson would have completed 3 years as Prime Minister of UK on July 24. But that was not to be. A man who rode to power with an 80-seat majority three years ago as  charismatic leader fell  from grace as  a host of his Ministers, including those who were appointed days earlier, publicly called for his resignation on Wednesday, July 6.  Johnson, a journalist-turned-politician who rose to the pinnacles of power riding the Brexit wave, tried to cling on to his position till the last minute. But despite Downing Street’s fightback, the intra-party rebellion spread like wildfire, engulfing even the loyalist inner circle. Faced with no other choice, he agreed on Thursday, July 7,  to stand down as the Conservative Party leader immediately and resign as Prime Minister in October when the party chooses a new leader. The race to replace Boris Johnson has already  begun, after the prime minister quit as Tory leader following a dramatic few days that saw his authority collapse, reports BBC.Tom Tugendhat is the latest MP to throw his hat into the ring, joining Attorney General Suella Braverman and Brexiteer Steve Baker who have shown interest. Nearly 60 Conservative MPs have quit government roles in recent days at both senior and junior levels, raising doubts about the government’s ability to function. Speaking to his newly appointed cabinet on Thursday, Johnson promised he would not use his remaining time in No 10 to make “major changes of direction”.

    A timetable for the Tory leadership race is due to be confirmed next week and the new prime minister is expected to be in position by September. But unofficially, the contest is already under way. The chair of the foreign affairs committee Tugendhat launched his leadership bid by writing in the Daily Telegraph on Friday, July 8,  promising tax cuts and “new energy and ideas” for government. “I have served before – in the military, and now in Parliament. Now I hope to answer the call once again as prime minister,” said the former soldier, who has been a prominent critic ofJohnson.

    Attorney General Ms Braverman has already confirmed she will stand, while former Brexit minister Baker said he was “seriously” considering running after being asked by people to do so.

    Sajid Javid, the former health secretary, and Transport Secretary Grant Shapps – who both revolted against Johnson – are also considering putting their hats into the ring, the BBC has been told. Others tipped to run include Foreign Secretary Liz Truss, former Chancellor Rishi Sunak and ex-Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt. More declarations are expected in the coming days – but some senior Tories have already said they will not be running, including former Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove, Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab and former Health Secretary Matt Hancock. Former Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Transport Secretary Grant Shapps are among those tipped to run in the leadership campaign. Brexit minister Jacob Rees-Mogg criticizedSunak on Thursday, saying he was “not a successful chancellor” and “not alert to the inflationary problem”. Speaking on Channel 4 News, the Johnson loyalist said the PM had been an “exceptionally good leader” who had been brought down by some “relatively minor missteps that got taken out of all proportion”.

    Transport minister Robert Courts said Shapps, who he works alongside, would be a “great choice” and also suggested Ben Wallace, the defense secretary. “I think we need someone who’s got experience, someone who is able to campaign… someone who’s able to deliver,” he told BBC Newsnight. The wannabes will fight a popularity contest among Tory MPs in the next few weeks, and should two of them be left at the end of that process, Conservative Party members will get the final say over the summer.

    Somewhere between 100,000 and 200,000 people will be charged with selecting the next head of our government on our behalf. It is a safe bet the next prime minister will be a very different character to Boris Johnson. Given the manner and motivations behind his toppling, being seen to ooze integrity and revere truth are qualities all the candidates will aspire to illustrate. But beyond that there will be an intriguing debate about what it means to a Conservative in 2022. When a new leader assumes office, the political landscape will instantly shift. Meanwhile, Conservative backbench MP and former cabinet minister Andrew Mitchell said: “We need a complete break from the Boris years.” Asked about what he would want in a new leader, he said someone with domestic and international experience and “someone who is patently moral and decent”. MP John Baron said he thought a new leader should focus on the cost of living crisis, levelling up and helping the most vulnerable in society. It is important that “integrity” is at the heart of the government, he told the BBC.

    Any candidate for the leadership race would need to secure the backing of Tory MPs, with the final two candidates then going to a ballot of Conservative members. Some Tories are deeply unhappy that Johnson is not quitting as PM immediately, with the former Prime Minister Sir John Major saying it would be “unwise” for him to stay until a replacement is chosen.

    Conservative MP Justine Greening said it was time for  Johnson to go and while he remains in No 10 “it’s harder for the party and the country to move on”. But Lord Vaizey who formerly served as a minister for David Cameron, said it was “fine” for the PM to continue “to act as caretaker”. Getting rid of a prime minister can lead to “dissatisfaction” with party members and voters who elected them, he told Newsnight. The Labour Party has also threatened to try and unseat the PM immediately through a vote of no confidence, although this would need considerable support among Conservatives to succeed.

    According to Downing Street,  Johnson told ministers at a cabinet meeting on Thursday that he would not seek to implement “major changes of direction” or take “major fiscal decisions” while a caretaker PM. In his resignation speech outside No 10 on Thursday, Johnson said he had tried to stay on to deliver on his “incredible mandate” from the 2019 election. He cited various achievements including Brexit and the Covid vaccine programme. He said his departure was a result of the “herd instinct” at Westminster and it would be “painful” to not deliver on “so many ideas and projects”. Johnson also spoke to President Zelensky of Ukraine, reassuring him that his replacement would remain as committed to the war-torn country as he was.

  • July 8 New York & Dallas E – Edition

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    [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_custom_heading text=”Dual Edition” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:center” google_fonts=”font_family:Istok%20Web%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.theindianpanorama.news%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2022%2F07%2FTIP-July-8-Dual-Edition.pdf”][vc_single_image image=”126904″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://www.theindianpanorama.news/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/TIP-July-8-Dual-Edition.pdf”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”82828″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://www.theindianpanorama.news/advertising-media-kit-portal-indian-panorama/”][vc_single_image image=”82829″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://www.theindianpanorama.news/advertising-media-kit-portal-indian-panorama/”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Lead Stories This Week” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:center” google_fonts=”font_family:Istok%20Web%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.theindianpanorama.news%2F%20″][vc_wp_posts number=”8″ show_date=”1″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Birthday Horoscope-July 11 to July 17, 2022

    Birthday Horoscope-July 11 to July 17, 2022

    By Chirag Daruwalla – Son of Astrologer BejanDaruwalla

     July 11

     Ganesha says today your work is everything, so whatever you think is a new idea, and you’ll definitely finish it. People who come into contact with you are profoundly affected by your simplicity and spirit of assistance. You occasionally have a tendency to act in an unconventional manner, and it is necessary to regulate this trait for your benefit. You will have several opportunities to participate in religious and spiritual ceremonies in the upcoming year. Your ability to get along with people well and quickly can broaden your network and social circle.

    July 12

    Ganesha says you are a very intelligent individual who is knowledgeable in every field. You will rise in the upcoming year like a brilliant star. You have an incredibly bright mind that can quickly solve problems. Although you have outstanding organizational skills, high-paying endeavors might not work out for you. With your blood family, ego conflicts can lead to tension and annoyance for both parties. You are familiar with the pace of the competition since you have unrivalled communication skills, which are crucial right now.

    July 13

    Ganesha says although your introverted character may limit the number of people you know, your unstoppable thoughts and strong ability to draw conclusions will enable you to manage the direction of your life in a methodical manner. By producing consistently high-quality work, you would also improve your standards. You need to change the introverted half of yourself that occasionally comes out so that your loved ones won’t misunderstand you. Without any hesitation, go ahead and share your feelings in regards to love. Any social service organization could be your connection or associate. This year, you would also independently make some significant decisions.

    July 14

    Ganesha says today you’ll be forced by circumstances to pursue your ideals in your endeavors. At work, you have plenty of chances to demonstrate your abilities, and everyone will be grateful. You’ll be forced by circumstances to spend time with your family, and with your electrifying gestures, you’ll steal the show. You might win the lottery, which would increase your life’s stability. You are a practical person. Playing with obstacles as a child has given you a tough nature that is difficult to subdue. People will respect you for who you naturally are. They usually stick with you.

    July 15

    Ganesha says today your artistic inclination will produce win-win circumstances everywhere for you. Your religious soul will experience good things in the New Year, yet a small slip-up can annoy you. Your job, with whom you spend the most of your time, will always be your first love and bring you incredible glory, honor, and surprises. You detest bigots and constantly work to shine a light of hope into the shadows. You now qualify as a seasoned warrior. A friend in need is a friend in deed if you are always willing to lend a hand. You should realize that love is always revealed via actions rather than words, so act quickly before the tides turn in your favor.

    July 16

    Ganesha says people who are around you and who work with you benefit much from your cooperative and upbeat disposition. Your associates and coworkers attempt to adopt your working style but are unsuccessful in doing so. But the most crucial thing is that you follow all rules and guidelines at work so that no one can ever point out your shortcomings. You would undoubtedly become the focus of attention on the professional front thanks to your unwavering dedication and fierce determination. It would also make it easier for you to advance and get paid more.

    July 17

    Ganesha saysyou are a fountain of ability, potential, and intelligence. Nobody will be able to defeat you at work because you are just incomparable and unbeatable. All you need in a source of revenue are keen and refined acumen skills. You can easily overcome all of your obstacles. You will reach the highest position in your profession thanks to your communication style. Serving humanity is one of your favorite genres. Your interest in politics may be sparked by your awareness of societal needs and desire to serve others. While travelling may put some burden on you, it can also be very beneficial.

  • Weekly Horoscope-July 11 to July 17, 2022

    Weekly Horoscope-July 11 to July 17, 2022

    Shree Ganeshaya Namah!!!

    Aries

    Ganesha says, you could decide to practice an artistic skill this week that is right for you. In the last three days of this week, you’ll be terrified by anything from your background and may have a sense of paranoia. This week is ideal for beginning a professional life in the business world. It may be a good week for doctors, pharmacists, and other medical professionals. On the emotional aspect, you could run across your potential partner or makeup with your fiancé if you have one. You can get mild belly discomfort or discomfort. You may do a short jog or strolling every day this week to keep yourself energized.

    Taurus

    You’ll have a great week and be comfortable. You could experience tiredness and need more relaxation since you may not have had sufficient slumber this week. Avoid long-term obligations and alternatively, make an effort to invest quality time with your great friendships. The family will rejoice when the news of the ancestor-to-ancestor transmission of wealth is announced. This week, learn the distinctions between the decades to better cope with challenges with your children. It will be a great week for graduates who are beginning their professions on the commercial level. There will be several new options for pupils. In regards of your wellness, you could feel sluggish and worn out from your work this week. In your companionship, this week will be fantastic.

    Gemini

    You will gain from leisure activities this week. The urge to lead a guarded living and the ongoing worry about getting wounded will be there during the whole week. You may be having a very stressful time in the latter half of the week due to the effect of the moon. This week, you might talk to your relatives and solicit their advice. A children’s health might be a concern when it relates to anxiety. There is a lack of love in the romance arena this week. This week, a family member could try to ruin your partnership, but it will be difficult to end your common devotion. You will receive recognition this week for some of your outstanding accomplishments on the commercial level. Opening a stocks or foreign transformation business this week is not advised.

    Cancer

    You’ll receive a barrage of appreciation and praises this week. Your witty words will lead others to gravitate toward you. Take advantage of this quality right now to meet new people and find partners that can help you hold entryways. You’ll be enveloped with emotional subtext this week. You will be respected by your partner for the individual you become. Try to do something special for your mate. The moment is ideal for investing in genuine properties. You’ll have to make some unpleasant selections but rely in your wisdom and logic. Your attitude toward your wellness will be more comfortable. You can immediately begin adhering to a strict eating regimen. You are a person who is concerned about your health yet finds it difficult to stick to health routine but this week, you will be all well.

    Leo

    It will be easier to get through the week if you let your intellectual energies stream in the right direction. Avoid letting exhaustion spoil your week. Focus on the immediate area in front of you. Your private and business relationships will no longer mesh perfectly. You will ultimately find equilibrium if you work to synchronize the two again. You and your companion will recognize your successes this week. It is advised that husbands and wives only participate in those pursuits that merit significant commitment. You will experience big changes in your work life in the latter half of the week. You’ll need to implement fresh methods in response to these updates. In the latter half of the week, your income will fluctuate, but ultimately,it will normalize.

    Virgo

    From your perspective of vision, matters have been somewhat cloudy lately, but this week, everyone will emerge perfectly obvious. This week, they’ll acquire more understanding, and you’ll be prepared to find the answers. You will receive a tremendous amount of power from Almighty’s energies. Due to misunderstandings of the discourse, there could be some issues at family this week, but everything will steadily get better. Perhaps you’re going too rapidly in matters of love. You are gaining perspective of your own individuality while you handle relationships. This week, you’ll give it more thought, and you’ll also tell your husband about it. Your business will generate amazing profits this week. Your well-being is not something you need to be worried about. However, the moon’s transition suggests that you may be a bit worried in the latter half of the week.

    Libra

    You could spend a good amount of your timewith your family this week and talk about a range of significant issues. Your family might find your comments offensive, but you can discover a solution to make matters good. On the business level, you could get all the necessary thresholds soon, and you might be capable to preserve the amount of income you need at the end of the week. You might have to go to social events as a component of your employment. Your partner will find it difficult to handle your irritation this week in terms of your love relationship. This week, it can be challenging to get your partner to understand how you experience. Your marriage won’t be fun this week; chat to your spouse and come up with a brilliant plan. In terms of health, your partner’s well-being may be a source of anxiety this week.

    Scorpio

    Your desire to serve everyone will make you happy and satisfied this week. Beginning in the week, you can have a monetary catastrophe that lowers your emotions. Relatives are prone to disagree financially. You should keep a record of every monetary action you make. You’ll be enabled to collaborate on significant real estate transactions and organize massive gatherings of people for recreational activities. Your urge to enjoy leisure together, away from everybody, will grow as you realize how fleeting time is. You will gain from doing it if you do. Your relationship with your spouse may be challenging, so you should try to prevent significant disagreements that last for an extended period of time.

    Sagittarius

    This week, individuals will be attracted to you owing of your charisma. The sector will advance by the end of the week. You’ll become a regular at social gatherings because to your smart nature. There is a mystical aspect to your unfailing devotion. When required, it will be appreciated if you can move quickly. Although this week is ideal for spending time with a friend, you should avoid alcohol consumption. You’ll have a nice week in terms of your personal relationship; you and your partner will bond through some enjoyable times. For people with chronic problems, this week is not a favorable week for their wellbeing, and you should visit a specialist.

    Capricorn

    You may have better connections out with friends and accomplish a lot of wonderful accomplishments. You could stay away from people you think you won’t get along with. You might need to stay away from foods rich in calories and workout frequently for your wellness. You’ll be able to manage your finances. You will have several opportunities to make income this week due of the Venus and constellations’ favorable positions. With the complete involvement of the employees and supervisors, business culture will be expedited. A love relationship could be destroyed by overwhelming concerns and notions. There shouldn’t be any room for uncertainty in your connection. If you have any real concerns about them, take a seat with them and attempt to come along with a remedy.

    Aquarius

    Your quick movement this week will resolve your ongoing problem. It would be advantageous if you and your family this week spoke about exchanging and conserving money. Your monetary situation could benefit from their recommendations. Everybody who resides with you could perhaps have issues if you don’t maintain your home. Your amorous vitality will be at an all-time peak due of your mate. You’ll benefit from spending time with your beloved one. On the commercial level, producers will enjoy a solid week. This week, the enemies of your colleague will be made to account for their transgressions. You will get a persistent hangover or vertigo that will make you feel unwell.

    Pisces

    It’s going to be a great week for your overall development. An optimistic outlook may keep you confident and assist you in reaching your objectives. For some individuals, traveling might be exhausting and disagreeable, but it can also be advantageous economically. This week is an excellent time to catch up with people you don’t see too often. Authentic, selfless affection is more prone to be seen. You will gain from top company’s and colleagues’ assistance this week. You’ll need to emphasize your children as time goes on as well. This week is a terrific one to make long-term investments. You may   consume unhealthy food all through the week, resulting in abdomen aches.

  • ……….AND THE WINNERS ARE

    “Heart Valley” Written & Produced by Kiran Sidhu wins Best Documentary Short

    By Mabel Pais

     “Stories About Helpful People” Co-Directed by Sindha Agha wins Best Episodic

    The 2022 Annual Tribeca Film Festival Jury Award winners & the Audience Award winners of the 21st Annual Tribeca Festival have been announced. Many notable films that have won Tribeca Festival Jury Awards have gone on to win the Academy Awards including Jesus Camp, Taxi to the Dark Side and of course The Queen of Basketball which won an Oscar just this year at the Academy Awards.

    Many of the award-winning titles are available on Tribeca At Home (tribecafilm.com/festival/at-home) until July 3. Buy your pass to stream these and other notable Tribeca Festival films and talks you may have missed.

    BEST DOCUMENTARY SHORT, DRAMA: “HEART VALLEY,” World Premiere

    Heart Valley Photo: tribecafilm.com

    WRITER: KIRAN SIDHU l PRODUCERS: CHRISTIAN CARGILL, LILY WAKELEY, KIRAN SIDHU l DIRECTOR: CHRISTIAN CARGILL l

    UK, WALES | ENGLISH | ENGLISH SUBTITLES l 19M

    “Heart Valley” follows a day in the life of solitary Wilf Davies, a shepherd from the small village of Cellan in Wales. Kind and inquisitive, the film looks at the world through Wilf’s eyes, asking questions about what it is we should truly value.

    BEST EPISODIC: “STORIES ABOUT HELPFUL PEOPLE”

    BRAND: ZENDESK CREATIVE STUDIO: EVEN/ODD

    DIRECTORS: SINDHA AGHA, ERIN BRETHAUER, TIM HUSSIN

    As a customer support company, everything Zendesk does — from how they build their customer experience software to the way they work with customers, is all about being helpful. It’s the spirit they believe in. “Stories About Helpful People” is a series of mini-documentaries and photo stories. It’s a series intended to inspire the Zendesk community to rally around the spirit of helpfulness. In “GOLDEN AGE KARATE,” a high school student helps a group of senior citizens get through a vulnerable time, by teaching them karate. In “ERIC AND THE BEES,” a U.S. military veteran discovers that beekeeping helps him cope with PTSD -and teaches other vets the healing powers of the hive.

    JURY AWARD WINNERS

    For a list of some of the great content featured during Tribeca 2022 that went on to win a Jury Award, view the full list at tribecafilm.com/news/tribeca-festival-announces-2022-jury-awards. Below is the list of award-winners.

    U.S. NARRATIVE COMPETITION

    The Founders Award for Best U.S. Narrative Feature: Sarah Elizabeth Mintz, “Good Girl Jane”

     Catch It on Tribeca At Home (tribecafilm.com/films/good-girl-jane-2022)

    Best Screenplay in a U.S. Narrative Feature: written by Ben Snyder & Elizabeth Rodriguez, “Allswell”

    Best Cinematography in a U.S. Narrative Feature: Azuli Anderson, “Next Exit”

    Best Performance in a U.S. Narrative Feature: Rain Spencer in “Good Girl Jane”

    Catch It on Tribeca At Home (tribecafilm.com/films/good-girl-jane-2022)

    Special Jury Mention for Best Performance in a U.S. Narrative Feature: Liz Carbel Sierra in “God’s Time”

    Catch It on Tribeca At Home (tribecafilm.com/films/god-s-time-2022)

    INTERNATIONAL NARRATIVE COMPETITION

    Best International Narrative Feature: “January”

    January Photo : tribecafilm.com

    Catch It on Tribeca At Home (tribecafilm.com/films/january-2022)

    Best Screenplay in an International Narrative Feature: Martín Boulocq and Rodrigo Hasbún, “The Visitor”

    Catch It on Tribeca At Home (https://tribecafilm.com/films/visitor-2022)

    Best Cinematography in an International Narrative Feature: Jan Mayntz, “We Might As Well Be Dead”

    Catch It on Tribeca At Home (tribecafilm.com/films/we-might-as-well-be-dead-2022)

    Best Performance in an International Narrative Feature: Dorota Pomykala for “Woman on a Roof”

     DOCUMENTARY COMPETITION

    Cave of Adullam Photo : tribecafilm.com

    Best Documentary Feature: “The Cave of Adullam”

    Best Cinematography in a Documentary Feature: “The Wild One”

    Catch It on Tribeca At Home (tribecafilm.com/films/wild-one-2022)

    Best Editing in a Documentary Feature: “The Cave of Adullam”

    BEST NEW NARRATIVE DIRECTOR COMPETITION

    Best New Narrative Director: Michelle Garza Cervera for “Huesera”

    BEST NEW DOCUMENTARY DIRECTOR COMPETITION

    The Albert Maysles Award for Best New Documentary Director: Edward Buckles Jr. for “Katrina Babies”

    Catch it on Tribeca At Home (tribecafilm.com/films/katrina-babies-2022)

    NORA EPHRON COMPETITION

    Nora Ephron Award: Michelle Garza Cervera for “Huesera”

     SHORTS COMPETITION

    All Tribeca shorts are available through Tribeca At Home (tribecafilm.com/festival/at-home)

    Best Narrative Short: “Night Ride”

    Best Documentary Short: “Heart Valley”

    Best Animated Short: “More Than I Remember”

    Student Visionary: “Daydreamers”

    TRIBECA AUDIO STORYTELLING COMPETITION

    Best Audio Storytelling in Nonfiction: “Mother Country Radicals”

    Best Audio Storytelling in Fiction: “The Hollowed Out”

    TRIBECA IMMERSIVE COMPETITION

    Storyscapes Award: “Kubo Walks The City”

    New Voices Award: “LGBTQ” + “VR Museum”

    TRIBECA GAMES COMPETITION

    Tribeca Games Award: “Thirsty Suitors”

    HUMAN / NATURE COMPETITION

    HUMAN / NATURE Award: “Katrina Babies”

    Catch It on Tribeca At Home (tribecafilm.com/films/katrina-babies-2022)

    AUDIENCE AWARD WINNERS

    Audience Award winners for the 21st-anniversary edition of the Tribeca Festival also include online premieres that were a part of Tribeca At Home, Tribeca’s virtual festival.

    The Tribeca Film Festival announces the Audience Award winners for the 21st annual edition, with Ellie Foumbi’s feature directorial debut, “Our Father, The Devil” which was part of the Indeed Juneteenth programming. The Tribeca Festival Audience Awards follow the previously announced 2022 Jury Awards.

    Best Narrative Feature winner “Our Father, The Devil” (tribecafilm.com/films/our-father-the-devil-2022) directed by Ellie Foumbi tells an unnerving tale about a medical worker’s tumultuous past coming back to haunt her.

    Second place was awarded to “Wes Schlagenhauf Is Dying” now available on Tribeca at Home (tribecafilm.com/films/wes-schlagenhauf-is-dying-2022).

    “The Cave of Adullam” (tribecafilm.com/films/cave-of-adullam-2022) directed by Laura Checkoway is a heartwarming story about a martial arts instructor mentoring young Black boys while offering guidance and tough love.

    Second place in the category was awarded to “Lift” now available on Tribeca at Home (tribecafilm.com/films/lift-2022).

    The Best Online Premiere winner“Cherry,” directed by Sophie Galibert follows the story of an uncommitted 25-year-old in Los Angeles who discovers she has only 24 hours to make one of the most consequential decisions of her life. Now available on Tribeca at Home (tribecafilm.com/films/cherry-2022)

    Second place went to “In Her Name” now available on Tribeca at Home (tribecafilm.com/films/in-her-name-2022)

    (Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Cuisine, Health & Wellness and Spirituality)

     

  • Birthday Horoscope – 4th July to 10th July 2022

    Birthday Horoscope – 4th July to 10th July 2022

    By Chirag Daruwalla – Son of Astrologer Bejan Daruwalla

    July 4

    Ganesha says although you may not have as many friends due to your shyness, you will be able to manage the direction of your life in a methodical manner because of your unstoppable thoughts and very authoritative ability to draw conclusions. Your associates and coworkers attempt to adopt your working style but are unsuccessful in doing so. The most crucial thing, though, is to follow all rules and guidelines at work so that no one will ever be able to criticize you for your shortcomings. Avoid engaging in negative office politics and gossip as it could damage your reputation at any time.

    July 5

    Ganesha says you are a fountain of ability, potential, and wit. Nobody will be able to defeat you at work since you are superior to all others and unbeatable. Although you can take calculated risks well, high-paying endeavors might not work out for you. Having ego conflicts with your blood kin may be stressful and upsetting for everyone involved. Because of your unrivalled communication skills, which are essential in today’s world, you are familiar with the pace of the competition.

    July 6

    Ganesha says in the upcoming year, you will rise like a brilliant star. People who come into contact with you are profoundly affected by your simplicity and spirit of assistance. You occasionally have a tendency to act in an unconventional manner, and it is necessary to regulate this trait for your benefit. By constantly producing quality work, you would also improve your standards. You need to change the introverted half of yourself that occasionally comes out so that your loved ones won’t misunderstand you. Without any hesitation, go ahead and share your feelings in regards to love. This year, you’d also come to some significant decisions on your own.

    July 7

    Ganesha says you enjoy going to events and parties, mixing with people, and being around a lot of people. You will have several opportunities this year to participate in religious and spiritual ceremonies. Your ability to establish rapport with others nearby will expand your network and social circle. You will have several opportunities to alter your employment this year, but you might not feel satisfied. There are excellent chances to transition from one employment to another. A person you love has the power to transform your outlook on life and give it new wings.

    July 8

    Ganesha says you are constantly willing to progress with pals. You’ll have an enjoyable time with your family, which will make you feel better. You will be blessed on all fronts. Without much delay or suffering, you will receive whatever you want. You constantly make a conscious decision to priorities your work over worldly pursuits. The man you speak for. Gather all of your thoughts and sort out the relevant issues. If you don’t curb your agitation, you could have to deal with some inconvenience.

    July 9

    Ganesha says you are in high demand at all times. You must examine your erratic and dispersed modes. You make your decision with the speed of a bullet train, and everyone will probably support you. Your efforts alone will always point you in the direction of success. Your natural resolve dispels any questions you may have regarding any task given to you. Everyone, from your house to your gaffers, loves the way you work and speak. For your underclassmen, you are perfect.

    July 10

    Ganesha says you made the decision as quickly as a bullet train, and everyone will probably support you. Your natural resolve dispels any questions you may have regarding any task given to you. Everyone, from your house to your gaffers, loves the way you work and speak. For your underclassmen, you are perfect. Everyone’s life is made happier by your cheerful disposition. You are friendly and confident. Your teammates and superiors will give you their entire support, which will make the voyage smooth.

  • Weekly Horoscope-July 4 to July 10

    Weekly Horoscope-July 4 to July 10

    By Chirag Bejan Daruwalla

    Aries 

    Ganesha says, Dear Aries,you’ll be focusing on humanitarian engagement this week and helping people who approach you with ethical questions. This week, everything; employment, family, and love will be in your favor. This week’s economic challenges may stifle your capacity for original thought. The feeling that you are not investing sufficient time with your relatives or acquaintances might be disconcerting. It will be a quiet week for people in the healthcare industry professionals. The business will prosper, and you will gain from it. Expecting ladies should exercise with particular vigilance this week to protect their wellbeing. You’ll feel your partner’s tenderness on an emotional level. This week, your wellness will be excellent.

     Taurus

    This week, your pals will introduce you to a remarkable person who will profoundly influence your thoughts. You could notice a bad omen as you leave your home, and this will likely cause you concern for the rest of the week. In terms of business, avoid making any investments this week without initially communicating with someone. Jobs will become more of a priority as competitiveness increases. To secure the success of your household, perform diligently. Your actions should be motivated by love and positive ideas rather than passionate avarice. Experience the joy of friendship. Your most significant connections and people require your attention and commitment.

    Gemini

    This week, be cautious not to compromise your psychological identity when you come into contact with persons who are particularly elevated. You should refrain from taking any actions that may cause a fight, and if you must negotiate under your rights, you must do it politely. Anybody could try to hurt you by using excessive force towards you. You might be able to transfer any land you’ve professionally invested into another nation right now and make a premium. It’s possible that entrepreneurs will have to make an unneeded journey simply to conduct their affairs. You can feel a lot of stress from this. You’ll be awaiting your partner’s opinion on an important matter. This week, your wellness will be good.

    Cancer 

    Dear Cancer, this week is necessary to complete any tasks that have been put off.  Pontifical differences between families may exist. You can have uninvited guests at your home. Some of your objectives might thus need to be changed as a consequence. You could subtly express that you don’t like certain things or persons. There will be warmth in your love relationship and you will be free of old arguments and problems. Older resources will become profitable and boost the competent standing of the company. When you succeed on the pitch and strike a touchdown, your authority and determination will develop. Although you will prevail in justice, you will still be under duress from your loved ones. But things will work out OK.

    Leo 

    The time to follow your greatest interest is this week. Both your business processes and your free time might be profitable. This week, you could get unfortunate information from a colleague or member of your extended family that will upset you. The week will be demanding for educators and anybody operating in the industry professionally. Interacting with funds should be done with caution since the company is in danger. Senior citizens should avoid the outdoors for the benefit of their wellness. The best time to take care of your body and any conditions that influence it is this week. You’ll go in a different amorous route. Your efforts to make your lover feel cheerful can indeed be noticed by them this week.

    Virgo 

    As suggested by the position of the moon in the initial part of the week, you can cancel previous obligations right now, but stay away from pointless business this week. This week, you could cross paths with someone you wouldn’t desire to see. Minimal assistance will be available for authorities to complete the task expertly. Making changes to your profession is not the best time to do in the first half of the week. You could anticipate wage raises or promotions. People will be aware of your attempts and admire your skills in many fields. The amorous aspect will provide some difficulties for you. Your partner will keep thinking about you the rest of the week if you don’t fulfill your obligations to them. You’ll realize that your wellness is improving since certain health issues are diminishing quickly.

    Libra 

    Your first part of this week will be stressful and tense, but your enthusiasm and drive for business will draw in some influential people. Your kids will probably congratulate you on your wonderful parenting, and it looks like the work you put in last week will pay off this week. This week is your golden one if you’re looking to engage romantically. Your sweetheart will be impressed by the attempt you make to win them over. You’re more likely to make inflexible judgments this week. You need to listen carefully while getting suggestions for your next marketing technique. Making judgments in the first part of the week is not a good idea. The exercise you have been doing will provide positive results this week.

    Scorpio

    The stars indicate that you will be willing to release go of problems that have been bothering you for a while this week. You’re probably going to spend this week purchasing. You will be given several excellent investment chances this week. Be careful what you believe since you can suffer a loss this week that will affect you negatively in the long run. You’ll suffer a lot of economic consequences. When it pertains to romance, this week is a wonderful week to take matters gently. Although it is steadily expanding in your horoscope, this is not the right moment to move further. You’re more likely to draw clear and definitive decisions this week. When getting suggestions for your upcoming venture, you must try to look at all perspectives with open eyes.

     Sagittarius

    Your cleverness and refined manner will win the admiration of others. You’ll meet some new friends this week who can assist you accomplish your hidden goals. This week, someone will make an effort to undercut your sense of dominance and confidence. Don’t believe anything they say. Attempt to maintain your composure. In the latter half of the week, Lord Jupiter will give you an understanding this week. You’ll navigate the roads and come to grips with your crucial choice of partner. Try to project authority this week. You’ll find some great deals this week, but simply attending will harm you. You risk losing what you have in plan for yourself if you attempt to settle large amounts. You’ll probably aggravate your vision, take good care this week.

    Capricorn

    This week, traveling will surely help you grow. Strive to remain for a prolonged amount duration. If you’re a scholar, your marks will increase and you’ll have an easier time understanding subjects. The consequences of mixing your emotional and business life will be terrible. Attempt to uphold regulation and civility everywhere you visit. Your marital life will become a little trickier this week. The residence you’ve possessed for a while but haven’t utilized can be sold this week. You could get a position with a large company or a business that is owned by the authorities. You could have a little lightheadedness this week as a result of not getting enough rest lately.

    Aquarius

    Everybody will be amazed by your progress this week. This velocity of advancement must be maintained forever. You could be able to help your neighbors and relatives this week. This week, you’ll work to advance quickly with the help of your relatives. You can acquire preoccupied with a lot of specifics. Gaining more influence will make you wealthy, and prosperous, and subject you to the jealous eyes of your rivals. The firm will prosper on the commercial side as a result of developments. Students have to work hard to get through superior universities.  Children strive for more, therefore there can be times when your focus is drawn to a wide range of diverse pursuits. You might be able to get marriage counsel from your close family members.

    Pisces

    Your humanitarian endeavors will enhance your character, and your students will learn some fantastic tidings ahead. Household ownership conflicts will be settled, and labor will be done with the help of colleagues and relatives. You might be able to help someone this week, but someday somebody different will see you negatively because of it. You will be able to acquire any agreements you need for the company to a competitive degree, which will gratify your thoughts. Your concern might be coming from a colleague or family member. Be careful when handling money. Perhaps this week isn’t the ideal time to make an investment. Use caution when utilizing electronic components to protect your safety.

  • Horoscope for the month of July 2022

    By Chirag Daruwalla – Son of Astrologer Bejan Daruwalla

     Aries 

    Ganesha says your abilities will be valued, and you’ll be positively charged on the inside.You might want to resolve any legal or tax-related issues this month. Make no rash financial judgments, please.You’re probably going to schedule a relaxing time outside. Sharing some amusing moments will be simple for you. A great journey will be ensured by quality time spent with one another.Your business partner may bring you the success and solid backing you need. Independent contractors can have a successful but hectic month.Are you a nerd for technology and science? You might be able to put your knowledge to use this month and get an edge on everyone. Even students will achieve academic success.It’s a good month to start doing yoga or the gym. In a nutshell, you’ll enjoy a happy, healthy, and amusing day today.

    Taurus 

    Refrain from allowing your fears to control you. Follow the desires of your heart.

    There will probably be many opportunities to make extra money, especially for those who work for themselves, enabling you to obtain the recognition and accolades that you want. Don’t give up; your sincere attempts to win someone over should be enough to impress them.Businessmen frequently have disagreements with their workers and employees, which can be detrimental to their operations.Stress over having to succeed may be felt by learners. Due to your workload and exam stress, you might be feeling a lot of pressure. You might just be persuaded that your way of living and food is bad for your health, in which case you’ll be more motivated to make changes.

    Gemini 

    Ganesha says you might experience all of life’s pleasures and comforts during this month.With recently made investments in the company, you can see good financial advantages.To strengthen the personal link in a long-distance relationship, partners are encouraged to keep up regular communication via SMS or phone conversations.

    You are encouraged not to change the business strategy at this time because it may be difficult for international or import/export enterprises. You can gain clarity and make an informed decision by meditating and discussing your experiences with your parents.This month, you need to exercise caution in terms of your health. The stars indicate that you might be depressed and that unanticipated health issues might develop.

    Cancer 

    Ganesha says whatever task you undertake; you will give it you everything.On the other hand, natives may need to be very careful this month when it comes to both their investments and their spending.Those who have been through this phase before will gain from this one considering marriage.It could be challenging to keep up a positive relationship with your business partner. Don’t blindly trust someone since there’s a chance you can be let down.Students might become aware of their great academic performance, and it might honor them for their successes in the classroom. You should try to think positively. Instead of focusing on the negative aspects of things, it is advised that you stay upbeat and happy about everything.

    Leo 

    Ganesha says make the best decisions you can without rushing through such crucial selections. Instead, move forward slowly.The beginning of the month signifies a trying time at work when you need to keep your composure. Your efforts to strengthen your financial situation may finally succeed this month.singles may meet someone special this month and possibly falls in love. This is the month when love and marriage are likely to materialize for individuals who have been dating for a while.Native entrepreneurs may face many obstacles in their new business.

    Your lack of interest in studying could cause us to lose valuable knowledge in the future.You’ll be emotionally weak but your health will be good. So, continue to have faith in yourself as you always have.

    Virgo 

    Ganesha says most likely, this will be a lucky month for you, with all of your wishes coming true.Because there’s a chance it could mess up your finances or your judgment could be off, you need to be on your guard.Your feelings and emotions for each other can be rekindled by a romantic encounter.Pay close attention to your current clients if you own a business because their assistance is essential in conquering challenges. You enjoy competition and work best in situations where you must actively participate and exhibit a sense of urgency to be taken seriously.

    Changes in the seasons could cause health issues at the start of this month. You may continue to be physically well, except for minor indispositions.

    Libra 

    Ganesha says instead of wasting your good fortune on frivolous activities, it is wiser for you to use it to improve your position.Anything you manage to do now might result in a reasonable amount of success financially.You might attempt to control your partner if you’re discussing something important.Increasing their customer base may be a possibility for business owners. The career graph may gain momentum.You should be able to locate a suitable learning interest this month if you are taking any competitive tests.Your physical and mental endurance is probably both exceptional, and you have great stamina. You might be more productive and be able to put in longer hours at work.

    Scorpio 

    Ganesha says you might perhaps have noticed a recent improvement in your luck.

    This month, your money may be doing well. The financial procedure would be clear and there would be a constant flow of money.There is a possibility that the couples will argue and fight. You should attempt to have an open dialogue.You might be offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity since the stars seem to be aligned in your favor. The difficulties will be overcome by you.The month makes the argument that certain students might have academic difficulties because they are prone to distractions.It is advisable that you establish a healthy lifestyle, practice yoga, and engage in light exercise first thing in the morning. Make every effort to improve your fitness by working out.

    Sagittarius 

    Ganesha says be the cause of a grin. Be the cause of someone’s reassurance in humanity and sense of value.You might be tempted to divulge your income to make money. Maintaining some degree of secrecy is essential.Your relationship can now progress to a stage of mutual understanding at this very moment. This can support the growth of a strong bond between you and your companion.Your coworkers and supervisors may provide you with their full support. In addition to overcoming all of life’s obstacles, you can also have a big competitive advantage over others.Even with distractions, you might be able to maintain your focus on your research.You can set aside time this month to improve your physical and mental fitness back to where it was.

    Capricorn 

    Ganesha says be careful. Thank you. Be upbeat. Be honest. Be considerate. Your bosses have been following your professional growth for some time, and this promotion is well overdue.There could be a month of conflict between you and your lover as a result of your melancholy demeanor and outward display.In exchange for your tireless efforts at work, you might, at last, receive some long-overdue recognition.Your enthusiasm for reading as a learning tool may be appreciated by your teachers.You can maximize your gains at this point in the month. Also, gradually stop any diets that could make you put on weight, as this may not be a fun time for you this month.

    Aquarius 

    Ganesha says keep your focus towards what you can create and stop worrying about the things you cannot change.You’ll have a consistent flow of income this month, which may be kind to you.Avoiding conflict and working together with your partner are the only ways to have a successful relationship. There may be many chances for you to spend quality time with your spouse, which could aid in your efforts to restart your romantic relationship.The responsiveness of your work-life seems to be at an all-time high.For students looking to improve their grades, there can be a lovely stage where your peers can support them.Maintaining stable and good health is possible this month.

    Pisces 

    Ganesha says love yourself, accept yourself, and keep going. You must let go of your burdens if you want to fly.Over time, you’ll discover how to make small financial sacrifices. This month could be an excellent one for saving with smart planning.

    Even if the marriage is successful, ego problems may still exist and need to be resolved. A tense relationship may result from aggressive communication with the in-laws.Your efforts might lead to a big financial benefit. A fresh investment could be made in a commercial project.Students can achieve success. In a week, some new talent might show up. Positivity can improve your performance.Things may go better if you’ve been experiencing health issues, but you should continue eating the way you have been and take the safety precautions that have been advised to you.

  • Udaipur’s Kanhaiya Beheading case

    Udaipur’s Kanhaiya Beheading case

    Tailor Master’s unstitched thread in pool of blood ripples nation

    Special report by Dr Yash Goyal, TIP Special Correspondent in Jaipur

    Gaus Mohammed and Mohd Riyaz Akhtari -who allegedly beheaded Kanhaiya. Pics / CM-Media Cell and PHQ

    JAIPUR (TIP) At cremation ground when his two sons were performing last rites of their slain father Kanhaiya Lal Teli and giving ‘agni’ to pyre, thousands of people were chanting not only Vedic mantra but also assuring the soul with tears full of heart, ‘Kanhaiya hum sharminda hain, tere katil zinda hain’, and ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’.

    The huge crowd of people of all age groups joined the funeral procession from his residence at Goverdhan Vilas of Dhanmandi area in the Lake City to the cremation ground despite the indefinite Curfew in parts of the city and the Prohibitory Orders in entire division. Two unknown customers who came on bike with open face entered the Supreme Tailor Shop in Bhootmahal locality in Dhanmandi area, asked Kanhaiya to stitch Muslim attire ‘jhola payjama’ for which they stood straight for measurements. Two co-workers were present in the shop staring at the customers. Immediately, one of customers started shooting a video, another turned into a criminal holding sharp edged weapons (small sword/knife) in his hand, attacked him mercilessly in his neck and other upper parts of the body. Kanhaiya collapsed on the floor near his table with hanging head. This video clip containing a threat to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi crept in social media faster than any breaking news. In a first of its kind crime in peaceful Rajasthan, a horrifying and gruesome killing shocked the entire country and the ordinary people of Udaipur got goosebumps and later got angry. Thousands of people jammed the traffic in the Udaipur city, held protests and indulged in arson activity that prompted the state government to clamp indefinite curfew in seven police stations and prohibitory orders in the entire Udaipur division.

    Forty-year-old Kanhaiya was allegedly beheaded by two assailants in his shop on June 28 afternoon over his social media post supporting ex-BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma in the row of her remarks on the Prophet. The murder is apparently connected with a number of inflammatory social media posts between communities specially after Kanhaiya’s remarks. According to the Rajasthan police, the dispute between Kanhaiya and some Muslim organization was settled on the complaint of life threat to the former very amicably on June 15 but why this tragedy occurred was still a cause of serious concern to be probed. The Gehlot government immediately came into action directing the state police to catch hold of assailants at any cost. Within six hours of the crime, two accused fleeing on a bike were arrested from Bhim area in Rajsamand district by a joint team of senior cops, the Director-General of Police M L Lather has said. The accused were identified as Gaus Mohammed and Mohd Riyaz Akhtari. The Government of Rajasthan has set up a three-member Special Investigation Team ((SIT) headed by Ashok Rathore, ADG-Special Operation Group (SOG), to probe the murder mystery of victim tailor.

              In a next day development, the DGP made a breaking news that Gaus Mohammed has links with Pakistan’s Extremist Organization ‘Dawate Islami’, and he had visited Karachi in 2014 in 2014 and attended this very organization’s meeting. As the PM’s name popped up in the video clip, the National Investigation Agency (anti-terror agency) stepped into it  on the very evening of the crime and claimed that the assailants could have had links with the ISIS of Pakistan. Next morning of the crime, the team arrived in Udaipur to interrogate the accused. CM Ashok Gehlot also assured that the state police’s Special Investigation Team (SIT) and Special Operation Group (SOG) would extend their all support and assistance to the national agency. In his sequel of his media interactions, Gehlot said, “It is a very sad incident, and the amount of condemnation is less, it is a matter of great concern that killing someone in this way is very sad, it is also shameful, I understand that there is also a need to correct the atmosphere. There should not be tension in such times, all together. Those guilty will not be spared, for that the whole police is ready to arrest and will keep no stone unturned. I can imagine, I can imagine, how fierce the anger must have been in my heart, I realize this, that is how we will act. Prime Minister and Union Home Minister should come forward and appeal to the public to maintain law and order and communal harmony in the society”.

    It is still a mystery and a matter of investigation by the state and central probing agencies whether it was a terror activity in a Taliban style as protested by saffron brigade leaders or a murder controversy in the aftermath of former BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma’s comments on prophet ?

    Though, the District and Session Court in Udaipur has remanded 14 days of judicial custody of both accused from June 30 to July 13 after the ATS and Dhanmandi Police produced him for custody, but the NIA is likely to take them to Jaipur’s NIA court for taking remand and interrogation.

    CM Gehlot with his junior home department minister and DGP paid a visit to slain Kanhaiya Lal’s bereaved family members at latter’s residence and after putting floral tributes on the photo portrait of the deceased, he  paid an ex-gratia payment (cheque) of Rs.50 lakh and assured the government jobs (on contract) to his son. Gehlot also visited JLN Hospital in Ajmer to enquire the medical status of a constable who was injured by a sword in an attack by pro-Hindu protesters in Bhim. He announced to pay a compensation of Rs. 10 lakh to him.

    It is pertinent to mention that the assembly polls in Gujarat, Meghalaya and Himachal Pradesh are slated later this year, and in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh next year-2023. Rajasthan in particular has witnessed the communal clashes in Karauli, Alwar’s Rajgarh, and Jodhpur on petty issues in recent months. The Congress party indicates that it was (barring Udaipur murder) all pre-election preparation to divide the two communities on religious lines and create Hindutavadi wave. Whereas the saffron leaders in Rajasthan always blamed the Congress government for its appeasement politics specially in favor of Muslims that created unrest in the Hindus and the worst law and order in the Gehlot regime.

    All Muslim Organizations have condemned the brutal killing of the tailor master and called it as ‘un-Islamic’. Normal citizens in Rajasthan are suffering from Internet suspension since June 28, and the digital payment of crores of rupees got stuck causing business and trade loss. Who bothers and cares for public when votes matter, and the assembly elections are approaching ?

  • NATO formally invites Finland and Sweden to join alliance

    NATO formally invites Finland and Sweden to join alliance

    MADRID (TIP): NATO formalized its invitation to Sweden and Finland to join its alliance Wednesday, June 29, a historic expansion of the defense bloc that directly undercuts Russian President Vladimir Putin’s aims as his war in Ukraine grinds ahead, according to CNN. The group collectively decided to approve countries’ applications to join after Turkey dropped its objections Tuesday, paving the way for NATO’s most consequential enlargement in decades. “The accession of Finland and Sweden will make them safer, NATO stronger, and the Euro-Atlantic area more secure. The security of Finland and Sweden is of direct importance to the Alliance, including during the accession process,” the statement said.

    The decision will now go to the 30 member states’ parliaments and legislatures for final ratification. NATO’s leaders said they expected the process to move quickly, allowing for an unprecedentedly swift accession and a show of unity against Putin. The leaders entered Wednesday’s talks propelled by a diplomatic victory after Turkey dropped its objections to the two nations joining NATO, setting the stage for the two longtime neutral countries to enter the defensive bloc. NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg called the formal invitation from the alliance to Sweden and Finland to join the defense bloc a “historic decision.”

    “The agreement concluded last night by Turkey, Finland and Sweden paved the way for this decision,” the secretary general said in a news conference. He recounted how two rounds of talks were held by senior officials in Brussels under his auspices in the advance of Monday’s consequential meeting between Finnish President Sauli Niinistö, Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Turkey agreed on Tuesday to drop its objections to their membership bids, removing a major hurdle to them joining NATO.

    The expansion vote, paired with substantial new commitments bolstering NATO’s force posture in Europe, combined to make this week’s summit in Madrid one of the most productive in recent memory. The outcome is exactly what Putin was hoping to fend off when he invaded Ukraine more than four months ago. “I said Putin’s looking for the Finlandization of Europe. He’s going to get the NATOization of Europe. And that is exactly what he didn’t want, but exactly what needs to be done to guarantee security for Europe. And I think it’s necessary,” US President Joe Biden said when he arrived at the summit site in Madrid. Biden and fellow NATO leaders assembled in the Spanish capital to unveil a significant strengthening of forces along the alliance’s eastern flank as Russia’s war in Ukraine shows no signs of slowing.

    Speaking alongside Stoltenberg, Biden listed new troop movements, equipment shipments and military installations meant to demonstrate the importance of security in the face of Moscow’s aggression.

    “The United States and our allies, we are going to step up — we are stepping up. We’re proving that NATO is more needed now than it ever has been and is as important as it ever has been,” Biden said.

    He said the US would establish a permanent headquarters for the Fifth Army Corps in Poland, maintain an extra rotational brigade of 3,000 troops in Romania, enhance rotational deployments to the Baltic states, send two more F-35 fighter jet squadrons to the United Kingdom and station additional air defense and other capabilities in Germany and Italy.

    “Together with our allies, we are going to make sure that NATO is ready to meet threats from all directions — across every domain, land, air and the sea,” Biden said.

    The United States did not convey to Russia its plans to bolster its force posture in Europe ahead of time.

    “There has been no communication with Moscow about these changes nor is there a requirement to do that,” John Kirby, the NSC coordinator for strategic communications, said after Biden announced the series of measures.

    A second official told reporters the announcements did not violate any agreements between Russia and NATO, which stipulate parameters for positioning troops in Europe. “The decision to permanently forward station the Five Corps headquarters forward command post does not, you know, is consistent with that commitment and our understanding of the NATO Russia founding act,” said Celeste Wallander, United States assistant secretary of defense for international affairs.

    Zelensky asks what Ukraine has to do to join NATO

    Yet even if Putin’s aims have backfired and the conflict grinds on, momentum is favoring Russia at the moment. That has left Biden and fellow western leaders this week searching for ways to alter the trajectory of the war.

    Despite enthusiasm at the summit for NATO’s two newest members, another leader — Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky — voiced frustration that his country’s NATO ambitions have been ignored, despite coming under siege by Russia.

    Addressing the NATO summit in Madrid virtually, Zelensky asked rhetorically, “Has Ukraine not paid enough” to join the alliance and review its open-door policy. “Is our contribution to the defense of both Europe and the whole civilization still insufficient?” he asked. “What else is needed then?”

    Ukraine has sought unsuccessfully to join NATO for years, hampered by concerns over provoking Russia and other issues related to its governance practices. Speaking after Zelensky’s address, Stoltenberg said the alliance welcomed the speech.

    “Ukraine can count on us for as long as it takes,” Stoltenberg stressed to journalists. He commended Zelensky’s “leadership and courage” and called the Ukrainian leader “an inspiration to us all.”

    Already this week, the US and European nations have slapped new rounds of sanctions on Moscow, banned new imports of its gold and agreed to limit the price of its oil. New rounds of security assistance, including a US-provided missile defense system, have been added to the queue of artillery and ammunition flowing in Ukraine.

    Whether any of that is enough to fundamentally alter the way the war is going remains to be seen. Zelensky told leaders attending the G7 summit in Germany he wanted their help staging a major initiative to win the war by the end of the year.

    Leaders worry the growing cost of the war, seen in rising gas and food prices, could lead to diminished support for Ukraine in the months ahead. A few have warned that fatigue is setting in, adding to the growing concerns that the alliance could fracture.

    “When we agreed we were going to respond, we acknowledged there was going to be some costs to our people, our imposition of sanctions on Russia. But our people have stood together. They’ve stood up and they’ve stood strong,” Biden said Tuesday when he was meeting with King Felipe VI at the Royal Palace in Madrid. It was during that meeting Biden received word Turkey was dropping its objections to Finland and Sweden’s applications to join NATO, ending a months-long standoff with NATO’s most challenging member. In order to get the deal struck before the summit, Biden dangled the prospect of a formal bilateral meeting with Erdoğan in a phone call on Tuesday morning. The leaders will meet Wednesday to discuss the myriad issues that have caused the relationship between Washington and Ankara to sour over the past several years.

    Biden also met jointly with Japan’s Prime Minister and South Korea’s President to focus on the threat from North Korea. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and President Yoon Suk Yeol are invited guests of the NATO summit, but their countries’ ties have deteriorated recently amid disputes over wartime histories, making the joint meeting with Biden a rarity.

  • GOPIO Northeast USA Chapters and Indian Consulate Celebrate Yoga Day with Happy Life Yoga

    GOPIO Northeast USA Chapters and Indian Consulate Celebrate Yoga Day with Happy Life Yoga

    From L to R: Chief Guest Consul Vipul Dev, Indian Consulate, New York (USA) and Special Guest Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, U.S. Rep. for Illinois’s 8th congressional district.
    From L to R (Upper Row): Tirlok Malik, Prof. Indrajit Saluja, Indu Jaiswal, Dr. Jaya Daptardar, Dr. Tara Shajan, Sangeeta Agarawal. From L to R (Lower Row): Dr. Thomas Abraham, Consul Vipul Dev, Dr. Renee Mehrra, Anil Narang, Victoria Moran, Domini Monroe.
    Part of the audience at the zoom session of Happy Life Yoga.

    NEW YORK (TIP): On the occasion of International Yoga Day 2022, GOPIO Northeast chapters in cooperation with the Indian Consulate in New York and Emmy-nominated filmmaker and Happy Life Yoga speaker Tirlok Malik hosted a highly interactive and informative Yoga Zoom event on June 23rd featuring experts and speakers from various walks of life. Mr. Randhir Jaiswal, Consul General of India in New York sent his best wishes to GOPIO and Malik for celebrating the International Yoga Day 2022. The chief guest Indian Consul Vipul Dev, who looks after Political, Press, Information and Culture at the Indian Consulate, New York (USA) and special guest Congressman Subramanian Raja Krishnamoorthi, an Indian-born American businessman who has been serving as the U.S. representative for Illinois’s 8th congressional district since 2017, were present on the occasion. GOPIO-Manhattan Secretary Bhavya Gupta was the MC for the event which was hosted in the presence of Dr. Thomas Abraham, Chairman of GOPIO International as well as distinguished members of GOPIO International and its chapter officials from the Northeast of USA and many viewers from all over the world. The event was also supported by The Indian Panorama, Indian American Forum, GOPIO Chapters (New York, Central New York, Central Jersey, Edison and Connecticut).

    The event was energetic, knowledgeable, inspiring, and celebratory in nature. While emphasizing upon the growing importance of Yoga in today’s times, Malik explained his vision behind Happy Life Yoga and its underlying philosophy, “A way of living inspired by the wisdom of Ayurveda, Yoga and Indian Philosophy, Happy Life Yoga is beneficial for one and all. The pandemic has made the world realize that it is of paramount importance to have a good health, physically and emotionally, and the Happy Life Yoga platform can show how to achieve it.”

    GOPIO Chairman Dr. Abraham in his welcome remarks said, “Yoga has now become an international brand after the UN declaration in 2014 and Yoga Day is now celebrated all over the world.” Dr. Abraham also complimented the Indian Consulate for continuing to hold the celebration at the Times Square in New York City.

    Indian Consul Vipul Dev said, “Yoga has become very popular in our life and personally I feel great that something like Yoga from my country has been adopted and owned by the rest of world.” He also added that Yoga brought positivity in his life. He also mentioned that the Indian Consulate in New York has been celebrating Yoga Day with community groups starting in the first week of June, including one at the Niagara Falls.

    In his brief remarks, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi congratulated GOPIO and Tirlok Malik for propagating the power of Yoga globally through the Happy Life Yoga event. “Today, the International Yoga Day has evolved into in major annual event that’s celebrated all across the globe. The key is to celebrate Yoga as a health practice that is truly universal. I would like to congratulate GOPIO and Mr. Malik for playing an active role in propagating the power of Yoga.”

    One of the major highlights of the Happy Life Yoga event was the knowledge sessions moderated by Malik who is known for his ability to engage with his audience using the right mix of banter and substance.

    The distinguished speakers included Prof. Indrajit Saluja (Chief Editor/Publisher, The Indian Panorama), Indu Jaiswal (Chairperson, Indian American Forum), Sangeeta Agarawal (CEO and Founder, Helpsy), Dr. Jaya Daptardar (Author and Ayurveda Practitioner), Domini Monroe (Model and Actress), Dr. Tara Shajan (President, Nurse Association), Prakhar Gupta (Podcaster), Dr. Renee Mehrra (Reenbow Media), Anil Narang (Vegan Ambassador), Anna Pillai (Ayurveda Practitioner), and Victoria Moran (Founder, Main Street Vegan Academy).

    The event ended with a thunderous applause even as Malik promised to bring more Happy Life Yoga events in the near future. Happy Life Yoga is the creation of Tirlok Malik. It is essentially an educational platform that offers a unique holistic approach to health and happiness using tools from Ayurveda, Indian Philosophy, and Yoga to help better manage modern-day challenges such as work, finances, relationships, family and other social pressures. It was launched in June 2019 in New York. Malik’s portfolio of work has won many awards and has been acclaimed in media and people worldwide. Through his work he intends to inspire others to live happier and healthier lives and the journey continues.

    During the program, GOPIO Foundation Executive Trustee Lal Motwani, who also serves as honorary chair of GOPIO-New York chapter spoke on the new initiative from the chapter on launching India Collection of Books at the Queens Public Library on August 13th when the library will also honor India for its 75th Independence. GOPIO-Manhattan Chapter Board Member Siddharth Jain spoke on the various services from the chapter including community feeding on the last Monday of every month and invited members of the community to sponsor this effort. GOPIO-Manhattan Chapter President Shivender Sofat invited the community to participate in other chapter activities including welcoming new students from India for a Welcome Dinner event in late September. GOPIO-New York President Beena Kothari, who managed the Zoom session gave the vote of thanks. Also present at the event were community leaders including AIA National President Govind Munjal, India Association of Long Island President Bina Sabapathy, The Kerala Center President Alex Esthappan, Milan Cultural Association President Suresh Sharma, Indo American Senior Citizen Association President Mukund Mehta and community leader Pam Kwatra.

  • Worst heart health mistakes you can avoid

    Worst heart health mistakes you can avoid

    Binge drinking

    Bingeing on anything is not good, and let’s just accept it, we’ve all been doing that during this pandemic. Now whether it is junk, Netflix shows or alcohol, that differs from person to person. If you’ve been going overboard with alcohol, it can lead to a number of serious issues, including heart conditions.

    In a study published in the journal Alcohol Research, it has been found that excessive alcohol on a daily basis can increase the risk of heart strokes. The reason being, alcohol intake tends to increase your blood pressure, which is the main reason behind a heart failure or stroke. So, if you were boozing all this while, it is now time to stop.

    OTC medicines

    We understand that covid has made doctor visits quite difficult. So, in case you have a health issue, and you’re taking over-the-counter medicines, then please avoid that. That’s because it can interfere with your blood pressure. The American Heart Association advises you to talk to your doctor about these medicines before consuming them.

    Lack of exercise

    With gyms shut for more than four to five months, you might have lost the enthusiasm to workout. But that’s not good news for your heart. We all know exercise is important for a healthy body and mind. So being physically inactive for long can have a negative affect on your heart health.

    Regular exercise reduces bad cholesterol levels, and increases good cholesterol levels in your body. According to the recommendation of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American College of Sports (ACSM), moderate exercise for 30 minutes is good enough. If it is difficult for you to do hardcore exercises, you can always find fun and creative ways to stay active. Try going for a walk or do hula hoops, and make sure you’re doing it in moderation.

    Eating unhealthy food

    One thing we all have done during this pandemic is hoard junk food at home, and then of course, binged on it. The consumption of junk food is associated with premature heart disease. In a study published in the AHA Journal, the researcher explained the relationship between junk food and heart disease. The saturated fat and glycemic starch present in junk food leads to obesity, diabetes and hypertension. Also, the high salt content is responsible for raising the blood pressure, putting you at high risk of contracting heart-related ailments.

    Excess stress and anxiety

    Stress and anxiety are at an all time high during this period, and that’s creating havoc in everyone’s life. Even if you’re eating healthy and working out regularly, too much stress can put heart health at risk. So, along with a healthy lifestyle, try practising stress management to keep your heart safe.

                Source: Healthshots

  • Air pollution increases risk of premature death by 20 percent: Study

    Air pollution increases risk of premature death by 20 percent: Study

    Exposure to above average levels of outdoor air pollution increases the risk of premature death by 20 per cent and mortality risk from cardiovascular disease by 17 per cent, according to a study.

    The research, published in the journal PLOS One, shows that along with high blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking, environmental factors such as air pollution are highly predictive of people’s chances of dying, especially from heart attack and stroke. Using wood- or kerosene-burning stoves, not properly ventilated through a chimney, to cook food or heat the home also increased overall risk of death by 23 per cent and 9 per cent and cardiovascular death risk by 36 per cent and 19 per cent, the researchers said. Living far from specialised medical clinics and near busy roads also increased risk of death, they said. Researchers from NYU Grossman School of Medicine and the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, US, collected personal and environmental health data from 50,045 mostly poor, rural villagers living in the northeast Golestan region of Iran.

    All study participants were aged over 40 and agreed to have their health monitored during annual visits with researchers dating as far back as 2004.

    The study not only identifies environmental factors that pose the greatest risk to heart and overall health, but also adds much-needed scientific evidence from people in low and middle income countries.

    Traditional research on environmental risk factors, the researchers noted, has favoured urban populations in high-income countries with much greater access to modern healthcare services. The study showed that the one-third of study participants who lived within 500 metres of a major roadway had a 13 per cent increased risk of death.

    “Our study highlights the role that key environmental factors of indoor/outdoor air pollution, access to modern health services, and proximity to noisy, polluted roadways play in all causes of death and deaths from cardiovascular disease in particular,” said study senior author and cardiologist Rajesh Vedanthan.

    Source: PTI

  • Sight problems can increase dementia risk in older adults: Study

    According to a new systematic review and meta-analysis of 16 studies involving 76,373 participants, older adults with untreated sight conditions may be at increased risk of dementia. The results of the study, published in the peer-reviewed journal Aging and Mental Health, highlight a need for further research to examine the impact of correcting sight problems in older adults – for example, with glasses or cataract surgery – to prevent cognitive problems and dementia.

    “This study is among the first to evaluate the association between sight problems and cognitive outcomes in older adults through a comprehensive examination of all available population-based studies in English. Our findings add to the growing evidence that fading eyesight is a risk factor for developing dementia,” said lead author, Associate Professor Beibei Xu, from the Medical Informatics Center, at Peking University. “Although the reasons behind this remain unclear, it suggests that diagnosing and treating eye conditions may be beneficial – both to improve a person’s quality of life and also to potentially slow down or stop memory loss.”

    Nearly one million people are estimated to be living with dementia in the UK – and that number is set to increase over the next few decades as the population ages. By 2050, it is predicted that this figure will have jumped to 1.6 million. The cost of dementia is expected to almost double in the same timeframe, from GBP 25bn today to GBP 47bn in 2050. The disease has a devastating impact on people’s lives. As their disease progresses, they will experience greater memory loss and changes to their personality and behaviour. Ultimately, they will become completely dependent on others for their care. The researchers included 16 studies including 76,373 participants, with five cross-sectional studies and 11 longitudinal studies published before April 2020. From these studies, the authors examined the relationship between visual impairment and cognitive outcomes in older adults. They found that:

    People with a sight problem had an increased risk of cognitive impairment and dementia, regardless of whether their visual impairment was self-reported or diagnosed using objective measures.The likelihood of having a cognitive impairment was 137 per cent higher among people who had a sight problem compared to those who did not. People who had a sight problem at baseline had a 41 per cent increased risk of developing cognitive impairment and a 44 per cent increased risk of dementia, compared with those who did not.”Finding ways to prevent or delay the onset of dementia could help reduce its devastating impact on the lives of affected individuals and their families, especially in light of the growing burden of the disease. Identifying modifiable risk factors is the first critical step for developing effective interventions to achieve this goal,” says Beibei Xu.

  • U17 women’s football team coach called back for ‘misconduct’ with player

    A coach attached with the Indian Under-17 women’s football team has been suspended and called back from Norway for alleged “misconduct” with a minor player during the ongoing training tour to Europe. The Committee of Administrators (CoA), managing the affairs of the All India Football Federation (AIFF), has informed the Sports Authority of India (SAI) about the incident. “An event of misconduct has been reported in the U-17 women’s team, currently on an exposure tour to Europe. The AIFF follows a zero-tolerance policy on indiscipline. As an initial action, the Federation has provisionally suspended the individual pending further investigation,” a statement from the CoA said. “The AIFF has asked the concerned individual to stop all contact with the team, return to India immediately, and be physically present for further investigations upon his arrival,” the statement added.

  • Bumrah to lead India in Edgbaston Test; Rohit ruled out

    Bumrah to lead India in Edgbaston Test; Rohit ruled out

    Birmingham (TIP)- Jasprit Bumrah will be captaining India in the Edgbaston Test against England, the BCCI confirmed on Thursday (June 30). Regular captain Rohit Sharma, who was a doubtful starter, underwent a RAT Test on Thursday morning and returned a positive result for Covid-19 and has been ruled out of the vital clash as a result.

    Bumrah was the frontrunner to lead the national side in the postponed Test match from the moment Rohit got sidelined due to Covid-19, as reported earlier. A vice-captain wasn’t named for the tour by the selectors ever since KL Rahul was ruled out.

    Even though the chances of Rohit making it to the game appeared to be slim with the 35-year-old running out of time, the management was willing to wait until the end to see if he returns a negative test result a day before the game. With the opener not recovering, Bumrah will now become the first pacer after Kapil Dev to lead India in a Test match.

    Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, who led India in the recently-concluded T20I series at home against South Africa, has been named Bumrah’s deputy. India also will have to take a call on their opening combination now that Rohit has been ruled out. With both the regular openers now ruled out, Shubman Gill is likely to slot in as one of the openers. Mayank Agarwal was recently drafted into the squad and Cheteshwar Pujara stands a chance of returning to the XI as well. India are currently leading the series 2-1 after four Tests.

    No experience

    As he admitted himself, Bumrah has never captained a team at any level before. He may have experienced the burden of a nation while bowling in the death overs in ODIs and T20Is, but the scrutiny on him during the next five days will be magnified a thousand times. He will have to make decisions based upon not only his own skill set, but those of others as well. At his first press conference as skipper, Burmah spoke calmly and confidently. There was no hesitation and certainly plenty of self-belief. He almost gave the indication that for a captain, while seeking different opinions is fine, it is always best to trust your own gut feel. “I have spoken to Rohit and Virat about captaincy, but at the end of the day I have to back myself,” he stated.

    One of the first decisions Bumrah will need to make is about India’s playing XI. The sight of Ravichandran Ashwin walking to the pitch with his pads on after a net session showcased the off-spinner’s enthusiasm. Ashwin and the Indian coaching staff had a long chat with the chief curator about the pitch.

    There is a theory in the Indian camp that with England batting so aggressively and taking a particular liking to pace bowlers, both Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja should feature in the playing XI. Burmah and Shami are the automatic picks as pacers, leaving Shardul Thakur and Mohammad Siraj to fight it out for the third pace bowling slot.

    Pujara set to return

    On the batting front, it seems Cheteshwar Pujara is certain to return to the playing XI at No. 3. Pujara spent plenty of time shadow-practising on the centre wicket yesterday and also had a modest hit-out in the nets today. With the practice session being optional, most of the frontline batsmen such as Kohli, Shubman Gill, Hanuma Vihari and Shreyas Iyer opted against batting. The pitch has a brown tinge instead of the traditional green English look. There is bound to be a bit of rain on the first two days of the match, but it seems the pitch will be good for batting. Bumrah admitted India have largely decided on the playing XI, but it would only be revealed on the morning of the match. The playing XI along with the decision at the toss will be the first things Bumrah must get right in his first foray into captaincy.

                Source: Cricbuzz and TNS

  • Neeraj Chopra breaks own record at Stockholm meet

    Neeraj Chopra breaks own record at Stockholm meet

    Tokyo Olympics gold medallist Neeraj Chopra gave another sterling performance on Thursday, June 30,  as he clinched a silver medal at the prestigious Diamond League meet in Stockholm and broke his own previous record. In the Diamond League played in Stockholm, Chopra threw 89.94 meters while doing so he broke his own national record, which was made on June 14. Chopra won the silver medal in the Pave Nurmi Games in Turku by throwing the javelin 89.30 meters away. The 24-year-old, who was making his third appearance since that historic Tokyo Olympics gold, made a stunning 89.94m in his first attempt, which was not just his personal best but also a new national record. The throw fell only 6m short of the elite milestone in javelin. His other throws measured 84.37m, 87.46m, 84.77m, 86.67 and 86.84m. Despite the record attempt, Neeraj finished second in the competition, as Andersen Peters, reigning World Champion, finished top of the podium with a 90.31m throw. It was his second 90m throw this season after a monstrous attempt of 93.07 at the Doha Diamond League.

    Last month, Neeraj had scripted national record with an 89.30m throw in the Paavo Nurmi Games in Turku, Finland that helped him finish second in the competition. Chopra has beaten Peters twice this month — in Turku where the athlete from Grenada was third and in the Kuortane Games, also in Finland, where the Indian superstar had won gold with a best throw of 86.69m under wet and slippery conditions. Chopra’s first throw had raised hopes of him scripting history of becoming the first Indian to win a Diamond League event. Nonetheless, he became the second Indian to finish in top-three in a Diamond League competition after discus thrower Vikas Gowda. The 2014 Commonwealth Games gold medallist Gowda, who retired in 2017, had finished in top-three in a Diamond League event four times in his career. He had finished second in 2012 (New York) and 2014 (Doha) and third in Shanghai and Eugene in 2015.

  • Serena Williams diminished at Wimbledon, but flame flickers still

    Playing her first singles match for a year after injury, Serena Williams’ opening-round Wimbledon loss to Harmony Tan on Tuesday was hardly her most unexpected defeat, but there were plenty of signs it could be the most portentous yet. Of course nobody goes on for ever, not even Williams who has performed numerous near miracles throughout a career spanning three decades. Still, it made for uncomfortable viewing seeing the rusty seven-time champion a faded shadow of the player who has won 23 Grand Slam singles crowns. For having long made a habit of seeing off lesser mortals while cruising at barely half pace, on Tuesday there seemed nothing to dig into, no extra gear, nor any aura to lend an advantage. Instead she brandished blunted tools and slumped to a 5-7 6-1 6-7(10-7) defeat before contemplating her future. “That’s a question I can’t answer,” the 40-year-old said when asked if she would return to Wimbledon. “Like, I don’t know. I feel like, you know, I don’t know. Who knows? Who knows where I’ll pop up.” Source: Reuters

  • Gir – Home of Asiatic Lion and African tribes

    Gir – Home of Asiatic Lion and African tribes

    Murli Menon

    In 2005 December, I undertook a journey to the only home of the Asiatic Lion in the Gir National Park and Sanctuary, located in Junagadh District of Gujarat State. Located 60 km. away from Junagadh town, the Gir National Park is a protected sanctuary stretching across 2400 square kilometre. The terrain is hilly and covered with thick, dry deciduous forests. The forest is home to several species of birds and animals. The most unbelievable fact about Gir is the existence of a village named Shirwan inside the sanctuary, which is populated by African tribals who were brought to India by the theNawab of Junagadh, four hundred years ago. These tribes are known as SiddiBadshah  by the locals and trace there ancestry to Kenya, as they speak remnants of Swahili, to this date.  The base camp for entering into these forests is SasanGir, which is located on the outskirts. The Siddi settlement of Shirwan is a 12 km. trek from Sasan through a dirt road which winds its way between thick forests.

    The trek to Shirwan from Sasan is fraught with risks. Panthers, leopards and cheetahs abound in the forests and could attack wayfarers. Wild monkeys, snakes and wild boar are also commonly seen and represent mild danger. More often then not, one could also come face to face with the lion, whose population in Gir is around 400.

    The Siddis have lived in this village since 1600 A.D., when they were brought to India as slaves by the Nawab of Junagadh, to convert the thick forests at that time into tillable land. 3000 Siddis continue to live in the forest, existing in the same circumstances as their ancestors, following the same traditions and existing in self imposed isolation.  Almost 100% of Siddis have married amongst themselves and maintained their ethnic purity over 400 years.

    The Siddis respect the law of the forest and do not indulge in hunting though they live adjacent to several hundred spotted deer. Addiction to alcohol is rare as Gujarat is a prohibited state and brewing or sale of alcohol is illegal. Siddis are forced to live off the land, in extremely inhospitable conditions. Wild fruits and berries are available in plenty. Fresh water is available in plenty,  as the Hiran river flows through Gir. In addition to this, there are several watering holes across the forest.

    The Government of Gujarat has offered theseSiddismodern houses outside the park, but so far, none of the 100 Siddi families of Shirwan have accepted the generous offer of the Government.  They continue to exist inside the forests, cheerful and facing the harsh realities of life. Music and dance are a way of life for the Siddis. They continue to sing their ancient tribal songs in Swahili and away to the beat of their ancestral drums. This tribal trance dance is known as “dhamal”(boisterous dance) in Gujarati. Siddis have also preserved their ancestral costumes, and every family has preserved one set oftheor ancestral tribal costumes which they don during ceremonial occasions, marriage or other festivities. The tribal drums, tribal flute and other musical instruments played during this trance dancing have also been maintained in working condition.

    The beat of the drums and the swaying steps of the dancetransport the viewer into a bygone era. The dancers move in synchronicity, men, women and children dance together in reverie and camaderie in a community gathering.  One of the important aspects of Siddi culture is their existence in the present moment. They think only about the here and now. They do not dwell on the past or contemplate the future. They are always aware of the present. If they get a meal they are happy, but they continue to remain cheerful, even if forced to go hungry to bed. During monsoon, most of the Siddi tribal houses are swept way by the rains. However, the Siddis remain extremely stress free and rebuild their huts after every monsoon. They continue to live inside the forest during the rains and do not migrate to higher ground. It would be an understatement to say that the Siddis are free from mental stress or worries.  Smiling children, laughter, music, boisterous chatter, trance dancing and cheerful faces are the highlights of a visit to this inaccessible Siddi village in the heart of lion country.

    One of the most important lessons one can learn from the Siddis is to shut out the past and forget about the future and continue to exist in the present. The learning experience from the Siddi tribe is aptly conveyed by this ancient Swahili Siddi proverb:

    “Do not pursue the past,

    Do not lose yourself in the future;

    The past no longer is,

    The future has not yet come;

    Looking deeply at life,

    As it is;

    In the very here and now,

    The Siddi lives in stability and freedom”

    How to get there?

    The nearest international Airport is at Ahmedabad. Junagadh is a 390 km. drive from Ahmedabad. Sasan is located 60 km. away from Junagadh on the Junagadh-Veraval Highway. Non-stop driving from Ahmedabad to Sasan should not exceed eight hours.

    Where to stay?

    The forest guest house at Sasan is an affordable and comfortable place to stay. “SinhSadan” the official guest house of the forest department needs to be booked in advance for visitors and costs Rs. 10 US$/- per night. The accommodation is comfortable, with hot water and the food is basic.

    Where to eat?

    Lots of small restaurants serving North Indian and Gujarati cuisine dotSasan. All restaurants offer simple but delicious vegetarian fare. Vegans can get fresh fruits including mangoes, papayas, pineapples and berries at the Siddi settlements.

    (Murli Menon, is a travel writer, stress management consultant and author-based at Ahmedabad, India. He is the author of “ZeNLP-Learning through stories” published by The Written Word Publications, “ZeNLP-the power to succeed” published by Sage publications and “ZeNLP-the power to relax” by New Dawn Press. He can be reached at zenlp@rediffmail.com)

  • Amarnath Yatra: The legend and pilgrimage

    Amarnath Yatra: The legend and pilgrimage

    Amarnath Cave is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites among Hindus. Situated at a height of 3,888 m in Jammu and Kashmir, Amarnath Cave is considered one of the holiest shrines of Lord Shiva. Every year thousands of devotees undertake the Amarnath Yatra, which is organized by Shri AmarnathJi Shrine Board. Formed due to the melting of ice from the roof of the cave to the floor, Amarnath Cave contains Shivling that people from all across the country visit to seek blessings from Lord Shiva.

    Significance of Amarnath Temple

    As you already know there is a block of ice formed Shivling inside the Amarnath Cave. On one hand, science says that it has been formed due to the dripping of ice from the roof of the cave, the Hindus believe that it is the presence of Lord Shiva in the form of a Lingam. Not only this but it is also believed that this Lingam expands and contracts according to the phases of the moon. Though, there is no scientific proof till now. Along with Shivling, you can also witness two other ice formations which are said to be of Goddess Parvati and Lord Ganesha.

    Amarnath Temple History

    It is said that there was a shepherd named Buta Malik who first discovered the cave. However, there is a mention of Amarnath Temple (Amareshwar) in the book “Rajatarangini” and people believe that Queen Suryamathi gave a present of Trishul, banalingas, and sacred emblems to Amarnath Temple back in the 11th century AD. And when in the 15th century, Buta Malik rediscovered the cave, the story of Quess Suryamthi was disremembered.

    With that being said, Buta Malik received a bag full of coal from a saint and when he got back home, he was surprised to see gold coins instead of coal. He was grateful but overwhelmed. And to say thank you to the saint he went back to the place where he met him but found the cave with Shivling inside instead. This led to the discovery of Amarnath Cave. From then onwards, it became a major place for pilgrimage among Hindus.

    There are some other epics that tell a different story. It says that the valley of Kashmir was underwater and Kashyap Rishi drained it through various rivers and rivulets. During the same timeline, Bhrigu Rishi visited the Himalayas and was the first to have the darshan of the holy Amarnath Cave. When villagers heard about this, it quickly became Shiva’s abode and a center of pilgrimage. Since then, a large number of devotees undertook the Amarnath Yatra through rugged terrain to seek eternal happiness.

    Amarnath Temple Story

    Many tourists who visit Amarnath Temple wonder what is the mythology behind Amarnath Cave? Well, as per a Hindu legend, it is believed that when Parvati asked Shiva the secret of life and eternity. At first, he refused but she insisted, so he decided to reveal the secret to her.

    He left Mount Kailash along with Goddess Parvati and left his belongings at various places. For instance, Nandi, the Bull at Pahalgam, Moon from hair at Chandanwari, and snakes on the banks of Lake Sheshnag. Lord Ganesha was left at Mahagunas Parvat also called Mahaganesh Mountain.

    Plus, the five elements of nature – Earth, Water, Air, Fire, and Sky were left at Panchtarni. As he sacrificed his belongings, he performed the Tandava Dance. And later, enter the cave with Parvati. To ensure no one was listening, he created fire to demolish all the life around him. But a pigeon under Lord Shiva remained and heard the secret of immortality.

    They were born and even today, devotees who visit Amarnath Temple can see a pair of pigeons inside the cave nesting. And because the secret of immortality was told here by Lord Shiva, the cave was called Amarnath.

    Shiva followers thus, take the Amarnath Yatra with true hearts and feelings and present to Lord Shivain hope of a righteous living, health, prosperity, and purity of the sins. Families, friends, and companions are often seen traveling together to Amarnath Temple in Jammu and Kashmir despite it being 36 to 48 km long and difficult to enlighten themselves by Shiva’s true light. Amarnath Yatra is organized every year but in 2022, it will be starting on 30 June  and will end on 11 August due to Sawan Purnima. There are 2 routes – Pahalgam and Baltal you can choose to go on. This can be covered in 4 to 5 days (Pahalgam) or 2 to 3 days (Baltal). Most devotees prefer the longer and more traditional route from Srinagar though. Elderly citizens can choose to ride on a horse too.

    Source: TourismOfIndia

  • Cryptos a clear danger to system: RBI Governor

    Cryptos a clear danger to system: RBI Governor

    New Delhi (TIP)- RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das on Thursday, June 30,  said cryptocurrencies are a clear danger to the financial systems and asked the people to be cautious about the emerging risks in this regard. “While technology has supported the reach of the financial sector and its benefits must be fully harnessed, its potential to disrupt financial stability has to be guarded against,” Das wrote in the foreword of the RBI’s annual ‘Financial Stability Report’(FSR) 2022.

    His observations came on a day when the global Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in its report on implementation of Standards on virtual assets (VAs) said many countries need to strengthen understanding of money laundering and terrorist financing risks in this regard. “Jurisdictions have made only limited progress over the last year in implementing this requirement. Of the 98 jurisdictions that responded to FATF’s March 2022 survey, only 29 jurisdictions have passed relevant Travel Rule laws, and a small subset of these jurisdictions have started enforcement,” said the FATF report.

    The RBI chief had earlier said investors who invest in cryptocurrencies should keep in mind that they are investing at their own risk and “also need to keep in mind that the cryptocurrency has no underlying value, not even a tulip”. “Overall, the financial stability risks to the Indian economy are skewed towards global spillovers and geopolitical tensions. Nevertheless, the Indian financial system exhibits underlying robustness and resilience to withstand these shocks,” he said.

    India raises import tax on gold

    India has raised its basic import duty on gold from 7.5 per cent to 12.5 per cent, the government said in a notification on Friday, as the world’s second biggest consumer of the precious metal tries to dampen its demand. India fufills most of its gold demand through imports, which were putting pressure on the rupee which hit a record low earlier this week.

  • U.S. economy contracts in first quarter; outlook murky as unsold goods accumulate

    U.S. economy contracts in first quarter; outlook murky as unsold goods accumulate

    WASHINGTON (TIP)- The U.S. economy contracted slightly more than previously estimated in the first quarter as the trade deficit widened to a record high and a resurgence in COVID-19 infections curbed spending on services like recreation. The Commerce Department’s third estimate of gross domestic product on Wednesday also showed some underlying softness in the economy, with consumer spending revised lower and inventories higher than reported last month.

    This is a potential red flag for domestic demand and the economic outlook amid recession jitters as the Federal Reserve aggressively tightens monetary policy to tame inflation. Fed Chair Jerome Powell told a European Central Bank conference on Wednesday that “there is a risk” the U.S. central bank could slow the economy more than needed to control inflation.

    “The biggest effect from this report is that it leaves inventories in a more overbuilt position than previously thought, putting second-quarter GDP into negative territory pending what tomorrow’s data reveal about May consumption and consumer inflation and April revisions to the same,” said Chris Low, chief economist at FHN Financial in New York.

    Gross domestic product fell at a 1.6% annualized rate last quarter, revised down from the 1.5% pace of decline reported last month. That was the first drop in GDP since the short and sharp pandemic recession nearly two years ago. Trade subtracted an unrevised 3.23 percentage points from GDP. Economists polled by Reuters had forecast the pace of contraction would be unrevised at a 1.5% rate. The economy was initially estimated to have contracted at a 1.4% rate. It grew at a robust 6.9% pace in the fourth quarter. GDP was 2.7% above its level in the fourth quarter of 2019.

    Consumer spending, which accounts for more than two-thirds of the economy, grew at a 1.8% rate instead of the 3.1% pace reported last month. The downgrade reflected revisions to services, now estimated to have increased at a 3.0% rate instead of the previously reported 4.8% pace. Spending on recreation, financial services and insurance as well as healthcare was downgraded. Outlays on goods meant to last three years or more increased at a 5.9% pace, slashed from the previously reported 6.8% rate. That reflected downgrades to motor vehicles and recreational goods spending. Stocks on Wall Street were mostly lower. The dollar rose against a basket of currencies. U.S. Treasury yields fell.

    INVENTORIES PILING UP

    The moderate pace of spending left inventories significantly higher than estimated in May. Business inventories increased at a $188.5 billion rate, rather than the $149.6 billon pace reported last month. The accumulation was in the retail sector, mostly in general merchandise stores. Major retailers like Walmart and Target have reported they are carrying too much merchandise.

    Slower consumer spending was partially offset by stronger business investment in equipment, whose growth pace was raised to 14.1% from 13.2%. As a result, growth in final sales to private domestic purchasers, which excludes trade, inventories and government spending, was cut to a 3.0% rate last quarter.

    This measure of domestic demand was previously reported to have risen at a 3.9% rate.

    Revisions to corporate profits were minor. The saving rate was unrevised at 5.6%. The increase in personal income was little changed from May’s estimate. But interest on assets was trimmed. That led to the rise in gross domestic income (GDI), an alternative measure of economic growth, being pared to a 1.8% rate from the 2.1% pace estimated last month. GDI advanced at a 6.3% rate in the fourth quarter.

    The economy appears to have rebounded from the first-quarter slump, with consumer spending accelerating in April. Business spending on equipment remained solid through May, while the goods trade deficit narrowed significantly as exports hit a record high. But the bounce is losing momentum because of the Fed’s aggressive posture.        Source: Reuters