EDMONTON (TIP): Gurkirat Singh (42), a transporter in Canada, who belonged to Gajjan Singh Wala village of Faridkot was burnt alive in a collision between two vehicles in Edmonton city of Alberta province on Monday, September 26. According to Gurdev Singh Khosa, father of the deceased, Gurkirat was returning from Fort McMurray to Edmonton in a van which collided with another van. This resulted in both the vehicles catching fire and killing both persons at the wheel.
Month: October 2022
-
Canada Retaliates: Advises citizens to exercisecaution while in India
By Prabhjot Singh
OTTAWA (TIP): The Canadian government has advised its citizens to avoid travel to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, and areas of Gujarat, Punjab and Rajasthan that are within 10 km of the border with Pakistan. Within two days of India issuing a travel advisory to its citizens planning short- or long-term travel to Canada, here comes a veiled retaliation. The Canadian government has advised its citizens to avoid travel to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, and areas of Gujarat, Punjab and Rajasthan that are within 10 km of the border with Pakistan.
The warning area excludes the Wagah Border in Punjab. It, however, avoids mention of Sri Kartarpur Sahib corridor, which is also within 10 km of the periphery of the border with Pakistan.
Punjabis and Gujaratis are among the largest Indian communities in Canada.
The border areas of Gujarat, Punjab and Rajasthan, the advisory says, have an unpredictable security situation. There may be presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance in some of these areas. The latest travel advisory of the Canadian government was posted on the web site of the Canadian High Commission in New Delhi on Tuesday. It also wants Canadians to avoid traveling to Assam, Manipur due to insurgency and terrorism. The Canadian update comes two days after the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had advised its citizens, including students, to observe “due caution and remain vigilant in view of the sharp increase in incidents of hate crimes, sectarian violence and anti-India activities in Canada.”
“Avoid all travel to areas within 10 km of the border with Pakistan in the following states due to the unpredictable security situation and presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance: Gujarat, Punjab Rajasthan,” says the advisory.
The Canadian Travel Advisory says there are certain safety and security concerns, or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities, it adds.
It has categorized “unsafe areas for travel” into two groups. The first group is about areas of avoiding non-essential travel. Included in this category are Manipur and Assam. In the second category of “avoid all travel,” the Canadian Advisory mentions Gujarat, Punjab, Rajasthan and Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
Advising avoid travel to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, it says that there due to unpredictable security situation, there is a threat of terrorism, militancy, civil unrest, and kidnapping. It excludes travelling to or within the Union Territory of Ladakh. It further says that the security situation in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is tense. There are high risks of violent protests, civil unrest and acts of terrorism and militancy.
“Violent clashes between militants and security forces occur regularly. Terrorist attacks against security forces have led to civilian casualties. Further attacks could take place at any time. You could find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time.
“The Indian army has enhanced powers in this territory. Authorities may impose curfews and security restrictions on short notice.” It advises visiting Canadians to carry their identity cards all the time, avoid gatherings and demonstrations, expect a heightened security presence and security checks, besides following the instructions of local authorities. “The level of tension between India and Pakistan may change suddenly. You could experience difficulties when travelling between the two countries. You may be subject to scrutiny if officials from either country become aware that you have recently travelled to the other.
“The security situation along the border with Pakistan, especially along the Line of Control (LoC), which separates the Union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh from Pakistan-administered Kashmir, remains volatile. “Cross-border gunfire and shelling are occurring sporadically along the LoC. The presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance also constitute a risk. “Although international travelers regularly use the Wagah border crossing linking Amritsar, India, to Lahore, Pakistan, it remains vulnerable to attack. Security measures are in place. You may experience long delays,” adds the Advisory.
While referring to north-eastern States of Assam and Manipur, the Advisory says that several extremist and insurgent groups, who are active, regularly target local government and security forces and may use various criminal activities to finance their activities. Ethnic tensions in the States can also lead to conflict and civil unrest.
It also says that there is a threat of terrorism in India, particularly in the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, sates of Manipur and Assam besides areas of East India where Naxalites groups are active
“Maoist extremist insurgents, known as Naxalites, are responsible for the majority of terrorist attacks in India. These groups are usually based in rural and forested areas within zones of concerns, as defined by the Government of India, which include Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. “Extremist and insurgent groups usually target government and security forces, and sometimes, trains and railway tracks. While tourists are not usually specifically targeted, bystanders could be affected. Be particularly vigilant during election periods and in the lead-up to, and during, religious holidays and times of national significance, like Republic Day (January 26), Eid, Independence Day (August 15), Diwali.
“Targets of terrorist attacks could include government buildings, including schools, places of worship, airports and other transportation hubs and networks, public areas such as tourist attractions restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centers, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners. “While in India, always be aware of your surroundings when in public places, if you see a suspicious package, immediately leave the area and report it to authorities,” concludes the Advisory.
-
PM Modi declares 36th National Games open at dazzling ceremony
The 36th National Games was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a glittering opening ceremony evening in the presence of over 100,000 ecstatic spectators. In keeping with the Olympic convention, but with a modern twist, Gujarat’s swimming star Maana Patel brought in the symbolic Torch of Unity into the arena and handed it over to the Prime Minister. Watched and applauded by several current and past sports icons, including Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra, Olympic medalists PV Sindhu, Ravi Dahiya, Mirabai Chanu, Gagan Narang, former national hockey captain and new HI chief Dilip Tirkey along with World Championship medalist Anju Bobby George, the Prime Minister placed the Torch on the podium for it to be lit by augmented reality.
-
Jasprit Bumrah Ruled Out Of T20 World Cup Due To Stress Fracture: Report
New Delhi (TIP)- In what could be a huge blow to India’s hopes of performing well at the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup in Australia, premier paceman Jasprit Bumrah is set to be ruled out of the tournament with a back stress fracture, news agency PTI reported citing BCCI sources. While an official confirmation from the Board of Control from Cricket in India is awaited, the signs have not been great as Bumrah pulled out of India’s series opener against South Africa in Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday, September 28.
BCCI had informed of Bumrah’s injury just minutes before the toss took place at the Greenfield Stadium. “Jasprit Bumrah complained of back pain in during India’s practice session on Tuesday. The BCCI Medical Team assessed him. He is ruled out of the first T20I,” BCCI had tweeted. Bumrah, who had also missed the Asia Cup due to his back problem, and was training at the National Cricket Academy, played the last two T20Is against Australia.
“Bumrah is not going to play the World T20 for sure. He has a serious back condition. It’s a stress fracture and he could be out for a period of six months,” a senior BCCI official told PTI on conditions of anonymity.
India have the likes of Mohammed Shami and Deepak Chahar in the standby list for the T20 World Cup and one of them could be drafted into the main squad now. Chahar had a good showing the match against South Africa and could get the nod ahead of Shami due to his superior batting skills down the order as well. India’s death bowling has been an issue and captain Rohit Sharma himself has pointed it out. Veteran paceman Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been under the pump due to his poor performances and the pressure to deliver will be on the shoulders of the young Arshdeep Singh and Harshal Patel in Bumrah’s absence.
Mohammed Siraj replaces Bumrah in T20I squad for SA T20Is
The All-India Senior Selection Committee has decided to rope in pacer Mohammed Siraj for India’s home assignment against South Africa after Bumrah sustained a back injury in the build-up to the first T20I between the two teams. Bumrah, who missed the entire Asia Cup 2022 due to a back injury, is currently under the supervision of the BCCI medical team.
-
Valvular Heart Disease: Causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment
The heart has four valves which tends to open and close to keep blood flowing into and out of the heart. The valves help to keep blood flowing in one direction, and open so that blood can be pumped out, then shut to keep it from coming back in but the valvular disease can happen when there is a problem with any of the 4 heart valves which are the mitral valve, tricuspid valve, pulmonary valve and aortic valve. Normally, the problem can be seen with the valves on the left side of the heart (the aortic and mitral valves). There can be two issues that are stenosis and regurgitation.
Causes
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Mayuresh Pradhan, Consultant Cardiovascular Thoracic and Heart Transplant Surgeon at Wockhardt Hospitals on Mira Road, explained, “Stenosis is seen when the valve narrows, which causes less blood to pump overall. Regurgitation is when the valve gets leaked in the wrong direction, letting blood back into the heart instead of sending it out. Did you know? Some people are born with valvular heart disease while a large number of them develop it as they age. One can also suffer from valvular heart disease as a result of a bloodstream infection, heart attack, or even congestive heart failure.”
Symptoms
According to Dr Mayuresh Pradhan, some people may not showcase any symptoms at all. He revealed, “The treating doctor can hear the unusual sound (heart murmur) during an examination but some signs associated with this disease are shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, lightheadedness, passing out and leg swelling. One needs to get a prompt diagnosis as these are the symptoms of congestive heart failure too. Other signs are fatigue, abdominal swelling, hoarse voice, abdominal pain, and inability to swallow food.”
He added, “Are you aware? One of the potential causes behind the occurrence of valvular heart disease is Rheumatic Heart Disease. Other reasons can be congenital, Ischaemic Heart Disease, age and bloodstream infections. On noticing these symptoms, one will have to consult the doctor without any further delay.”
Diagnosis
Dr Mayuresh Pradhan highlighted, “Your doctor will suggest you an echocardiogram, or an ultrasound of your heart to check the functioning of the heart and diagnose any abnormalities. Once the diagnosis of heart valve disease is confirmed, you need to seek appropriate treatment.”
Treatment
Asserting that medication and surgery will help one to get back on track, Dr Mayuresh Pradhan recommended, “Valve surgery to repair or replace the damaged valve is based on which valve is damaged. One with heart valve disease will have to go for regular follow-ups with the doctor and do echocardiograms from time to time to know if the disease is getting better or worse. Along with treatment, it is imperative to eat a well-balanced diet, quit smoking, exercise daily, eat less salt, stay stress-free and control high blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels.”
Source: HT
-
Covid vaccination can affect menstrual cycle length, says study
COVID-19 vaccination is associated with an average increase in menstrual cycle length of less than one day, a study published in the British Medical Journal has found. The researchers from Oregon Health & Science University, US, determined that on average, vaccinated people experienced an increase of less than one day in each menstrual cycle in which they were vaccinated. Changes in cycle length did not differ according to the type of vaccine received, the researchers noted. A change in cycle length of less than eight days is considered within the normal range of variation, they said. Although small menstrual changes may not be meaningful to health care professionals and researchers, the study authors noted that perceived changes in a bodily function linked to fertility may be alarming to those experiencing it and could contribute to vaccine hesitancy.
Changes in cycle length did not differ according to the type of vaccine received, the researchers noted.
A change in cycle length of less than eight days is considered within the normal range of variation, they said.
Although small menstrual changes may not be meaningful to health care professionals and researchers, the study authors noted that perceived changes in a bodily function linked to fertility may be alarming to those experiencing it and could contribute to vaccine hesitancy. Of the total, 1,342 participants experienced a change in cycle length of eight or more days, comprising 6.2 per cent of vaccinated individuals and 5 per cent of unvaccinated individuals. Women who were younger and who had a longer cycle length before vaccination were more likely to experience the increase. The researchers analysed de-identified data from the fertility tracking app, Natural Cycles. Users of the app provided it information on their temperature and their menstrual cycles.
Source: PTI
-
Home Remedies to Lighten Pokemarks On Your Face
Pockmarks are concave marks that look like holes in the skin. This may occur due to infection, chicken pox, measles, or due to damage to the dermal layer. These marks are so deep that even makeup can’t hide them. Today, we are going to share some amazing home remedies that will help you deal with your pockmark scars and help lighten them.
Over-the-counter product
Pockmarks need deep hydration. There are many such products available on the market, with the help of which the skin can be healed and can be given deep hydration. So you can go for a gel-based sheet mask, cream, or chemical peel form.
Moisturising oil or butter
If you want to reduce dark spots, then you can count on jojoba oil, cocoa butter, olive oil, rosehip seed oil, hemp seed oil, or shea butter.
Face Massage
To lighten the pockmarks, you can opt for the face massage technique. With regular massage, the blood circulation of the skin becomes good, the cells get active, the muscles are boosted and the skin becomes better.
Aloe Vera Gel
If you apply fresh aloe vera gel daily on the pockmark area, it helps the skin to heal, and reduces the deep scars gradually.
Honey
Honey is used for numerous medicinal purposes like burns, wounds, and herpes. So honey is a great remedy to deal with the deep scars of pockmarks. Directly applying honey to the skin repairs the wounds and lightens the scars.
Source: News18
-
Ways to keep your relationship strong
It is no secret that it takes more than just love to keep a marriage strong and healthy. Obviously strong feelings for each other is a necessity, but with the many responsibilities of life, fitting in quality time with your significant other can definitely take a backseat. Luckily there are countless ways to give your relationship the care and attention it needs to last. Best of all, a lot of them don’t require a huge change in your daily schedule or a lot of money. Here are simple ways to keep your relationship strong and healthy.
Greet each other when you come home
First things first, say “hello”. This may sound like a cliché, but making sure that you greet your spouse when they come home is important. It lets your partner know that you are happy to see them and often translates to “I missed you.” Let’s face it, it can be pretty disappointing when you show up to an event and no one greets you or seems to care that you’ve even arrived. The same goes for when your spouse gets home, so don’t forget to greet them with a loving “hello” followed by a sweet kiss! Even just spending a few minutes doing some daily activities greatly increases your relationship’s happiness.
Schedule a weekly check-in
Running your children around from doctors’ appointments to practices to school and back often seems to have no end. We live in a time of constant “go, go, go,” which is why it’s important to schedule in weekly check-ins with your spouse. Sure, a weekly meeting may not sound like the most romantic thing in the world. But pour yourselves a glass of wine once the kids are asleep or meet for coffee during your lunch break. There are plenty of ways you can take 30 minutes each week to just check in. This is a time for you to discuss things that happened that week or make decisions about the week ahead. A time to share how you are doing.
Don’t forget to date your spouse
Just because you are married doesn’t mean you can’t also be dating, right? In fact, it is because you are married that you should be dating. It is easy to be caught in the hamster wheel of wake up, grab a cup of coffee, kiss, run out the door, dinner with the kids, pass out, and repeat. It is also easy for your relationship to grow very tired because of this.
Schedule one night each week that is your night with your hubby, just the two of you. Go to a nice restaurant, see a movie you both want to see, go for ice cream in the summer months. There are countless opportunities to have a fun, romantic date night that you both deserve.
Share your daily highs and lows
Written in your wedding vows somewhere was probably something along the lines of “for better and for worse.” Well, when it comes to your relationship, it is important to share the “better and worse” daily. Make it a fun dinner-time tradition to share a high point and a low point of each day. This can even be something that the kids take part in, as well! Sharing one high and one low each day is a wonderful way to maintain healthy communication between you and your partner.
Tell your partner why you love them
The initial stages of a relationship are filled with butterflies and constant verbal affection. The problem is, as time goes on, those butterflies tend to fly away and so do the “I love you because…” soliloquies. Of course it is normal to not be as “lovey dovey” as when you first met, but don’t forsake all verbal affection. Tell your partner you love them often, but don’t stop there! Tell them why you love them. Whether it be for taking the kids to the mall when you clearly need some relaxation time, bringing you flowers one random evening, or simply for being him. Whatever it may be, say it loud and say it proud.
Source: Cratedwithlove
-
Punjabi Rajma
Ingredients
1 cup soaked overnight red kidney beans, 1 1/2 tablespoon yoghurt (curd), 1/2 teaspoon washed & dried fenugreek, leaves ( methi), 2 pinch red chilli powder, 1 pinch salt, 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger, 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds, 1/4 cup tomato puree, 1/4 teaspoon powdered turmeric, 1 teaspoon refined oil, 2 tablespoon grated onion, 1/2 teaspoon grated garlic, 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder.
Method
– To prepare this easy Punjabi Rajma recipe, soak the kidney beans in water for around 8 hours. Then take a pressure cooker and add the kidney beans, water and salt in it. Pressure cook the soaked kidney beans with salt for about 20 minutes or till they become soft. Once done, strain the excess water.
– Now take a pan and add refined oil in it. Heat it over moderate flame. Then put grated onions in it and fry till they turn slightly pinkish in hue. Add garlic along with ginger in the same pan and cook the ingredients for about 2-3 minutes on medium flame. Stir well and add yoghurt in the pan and cook on low heat for 2 more minutes.
– Now add tomato puree and turmeric powder in the pan, and cook for 5-7 minutes on medium flame. Keep stirring the ingredients so that they don’t stick to the bottom of the pan. Then add coriander powder, cumin powder along with dry fenugreek and chilli powder in the pan. Cook till oil floats to the surface.
– Once done, add in cooked kidney beans and bring it to a boil. After 2 minutes, add salt and simmer the dish for around 15 minutes. Garnish with chopped coriander and garam masala powder. You may also add a dollop of cream for a creamy flavour. You can serve this delicious Punjabi Rajma recipe with boiled rice, jeera rice or even plain rotis.
-
Paneer Pasanda
Ingredients
200 gm cubed paneer, 2 teaspoon refined oil, 2 tablespoon tomato puree, 1/2 dash sugar, 1 teaspoon cumin powder, 1 cut into strips capsicum ( green pepper), 1 tablespoon garlic paste, 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder, 1/2 teaspoon red chilli powder, salt as required.
Method
– Heat oil in a frying pan on medium flame and add the garlic paste in it.
– Stir for about 30 seconds and add the tomato puree, salt, sugar, red chilli powder, cumin powder and garam masala. Mix well. Add capsicum and saute for a minute on medium flame. Turn off the flame and add paneer. Mix well. Transfer to a microwave proof bowl and microwave it on high for 3-4 minutes. Garnish with chopped coriander and serve hot with chapatis.
-
Air pollution may increase hospitalization risk for autistic children, reveals study
Autistic children who are exposed to air pollution for even relatively brief periods may be at higher risk of being admitted to hospital, with boys more at risk than girls, a study suggests. The research, published in the journal BMJ Open, found that admissions for issues such as hyperactivity, aggression, or self-injury might be prevented by minimising these children’s exposure to air pollution. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with a range of symptoms and severity. It is often accompanied by neuroinflammation and systemic inflammation meaning drugs, supplements, and diet can improve the core symptoms. It is believed that short-term exposure to air pollution (days to weeks) can induce systemic inflammation and neuroinflammation, potentially increasing the risk of hospital admission in autistic people.
The researchers from Seoul National University Hospital, Korea, drew on official government data on daily hospital admissions for autism among children aged 5 to 14 between 2011 and 2015.
They collected information on national daily levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3) in each of the 16 regions in the Republic of Korea for up to six days.
The average daily number of hospital admissions for autism during the study period was 8.5 for autistic children and was much higher for boys (7) than for girls (1.6).
Analysis of the data showed that short-term exposure to PM2.5, NO2, and O3 was associated with a heightened risk of hospital admission for autism, and that boys were at greater risk than girls. A 10 mg per cubic metre (µg/m3) increase in PM2.5 levels was associated with a 17 per cent higher risk of hospital admission for autism, the researchers said. A 10 parts per billion increase in NO2 and O3 was associated with a nine per cent and three per cent higher risk, respectively, they said.
Source: PTI
-
India to start its World Cup campaign against Spain at Rourkela on January 13
By Prabhjot Singh The hosts India will take on Spain in its opening game of the 2023 FIH Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup at Rourkela on January 13. The schedule of the matches to be played at Bhubaneswar and Rourkela was released by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) on Tuesday, September 27. The 2016 Olympic Gold medallists Argentina and Africa’s highest-ranked nation South Africa will play the opening match of the mega event at iconic Kalinga Stadium on January 13. The last edition of the FIH Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup in 2018 was also held at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneshwar. India will play its second match against England on January 15 at Rourkela. The hosts will play their third and final pool game against Wales at Bhubaneswar on January 19.
In all 44 matches will be played during the Odisha World Cup.
All teams will play at both Bhubaneswar and Rourkela.
The final will be played on January 29 at Bhubaneshwar.
The second match of the first day in Bhubaneswar will see world’s number one Australia taking on France, in a repeat of the 2018 World Cup quarter-final.
Later on the same day, a “derby” between England and Wales will set the event rolling at Rourkela. It will be followed by the hosts India playing in front of its home fans against Spain.
All teams will play in both venues.
January 18 and January 21 will be the rest days.
On January 19, all four games – Malaysia vs New Zealand, the Netherlands vs Chile, Spain vs England and India vs Wales will be played at Bhubaneswar.
On January 20, Rourkela will be the venue for all the four final pool games – Australia vs South Africa, France vs Argentina, Belgium vs Japan and Korea vs Germany.
The draw held on 8 September in Bhubaneswar determined the four Pools as follows:
Pool A: Australia, Argentina, France, South Africa
Pool B: Belgium, Germany, Korea, Japan
Pool C: Netherlands, New Zealand, Malaysia, Chile
Pool D: India, England, Spain, Wales
Chile and Wales have qualified for the Men’s World Cup for the very first time.
Belgium are the current World Champions, having defeated the Netherlands in the Final of the 2018 edition.
-
Shardiya Navratri
Navratri is one of the holiest Hindu festivals. Navratri is the festival of Goddess Durga who is the most powerful female god of Hindu mythology. Navratri is celebrated for nine nights during which people worship Goddess Durga and Her nine forms to seek Her blessings to remove of miseries of life . Goddess Durga blesses Her devotees with Her Love, protection, fearlessness, courage and confidence and many other divine blessings.
According to the Hindu calendar, Navratri starts at the first day of the bright fortnight of Ashwin. The nine days have great religious significance as Goddess Durga, the divine mother, killed demon Mahishasura during this period.
Nine days, nine indulgence
- On the first day devotees can offer pure ghee made from cow milk. This will relieve the devotees from all the diseases.
- On the second day, devotees should offer sugar to the Goddess. This will increase the life span of the devotees.
- On the third day, devotees can offer milk or the sweet kheer made from milk. This will relieve the devotees of all their sorrows and sufferings.
- On the forth day, Malpua, This will help in the brain development of the devotees and increases the discreation power of the devotees.
- On the fifth day, Bananas. This keeps the body healthy.
- On the sixth day,Honey. This makes people attract towards the devotees.
- On the Seventh day, Jaggery. This protects the devotees from the sudden misfortunes.
- On the eighth day, devotees can offer Coconut to the Goddess. This relives the devotees from all the sufferings related to their children.
- On the ninth day, devotees can offer Til or seasame seeds to the Goddess. This takes away the fear of death.
Legend associated with Navratri
Hindus commemorate the goddess Durga’s victory over the monster Mahishasura during the festival of Navratri. Because of Mahishasura’s devotion to him, Lord Brahma had granted Mahishasura the gift of immortality, ensuring that he would never die. The only individual who would be able to take down Mahishasura would be a woman, hence this gift did have one restriction. Mahishasura was pleased with the bargain because he didn’t believe any woman could kill him. No god was able to stop Mahishasura and his soldiers as they became stronger and began assaulting people on Earth. Finally, the three most potent Hindu gods—Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva—decided to unite and manifest the goddess Durga, a formidable woman whose mission would be to kill Mahishasura. Before fighting Mahishasura, the gods gave the goddess Durga a plethora of weapons. For ten days, Durga battled the demon, but it was challenging since he kept changing his appearance to trick the goddess. But when he at last transformed into a buffalo, Durga was able to triumph over him.
Significance of Navratri
Navratri is Hindi for “nine nights.” Nine and night are represented by the words “Nava” and “Ratri,” respectively. Devi stands for the eternal cosmic Energy. This Energy permeates the entirety of Creation.
Navratri and the related Goddesses
The festival commemorates the epic war between Durga and the evil Mahishasura to mark the triumph of good over evil. The Navadurga, Durga’s nine avatars, are the central objective of these nine days. Every day is linked to a different goddess avatar.
Pratipada Tithi – Devi Shailaputri
This day is referred to as Pratipada (first day) and is connected to Shailaputri (“Daughter of Mountain”), a manifestation of Parvati. In this incarnation, Durga is revered as Shiva’s wife and is shown riding the bull Nandi while holding a trishula in her right hand and a lotus in her left. According to legend, Shailaputri is Mahakali’s Avatar.
Dwitiya Tithi – Devi Brahmacharini
Goddess Brahmacharini, a different form of Parvati, is worshipped on Dwitiya (the second day). Parvati took on the form of Yogini, her unmarried self. Brahmacharini is revered for bestowing moksha, or liberation, as well as stability and prosperity.
Tritya tithi – Devi Chandraghanta
The third day, or Tritiya, marks the worship of Devi Chandraghanta another incarnation of Devi Parvati. She is called Chandraghanta because she wears a crescent moon on her head.
Chaturthi Tithi – Devi Kushmanda
On Chaturthi (the fourth day), devotees worship the goddess Kushmanda. The color of the day is orange because Orange color is the color of creativity and compassion and Devi Kushmanda, who is thought to represent the universe’s creative force, is believed to have created life on earth.
Panchami Tithi – Devi Skandamata
The goddess Skandamata, who is celebrated on Panchami (the fifth day), is Kartikeya’s mother who is also known as Skanda.
Shashthi tithi – Devi Katyayini
The sixth day of the Navratri is dedicated to Devi Katyayini. She is an incarnation of Durga who was born to the sage Katyayana and is depicted as displaying the boldness that the color red represents.
Saptami Tithi – Devi Kaalaratri
On Saptami, Kalaratri, thought to be the fiercest manifestation of Goddess Durga, is worshipped. According to legend, Parvati took on the avatar of a dark-skinned goddess out of rage in order to kill the demons Sumbha and Nisumbha.
Ashtami Tithi – Devi Mahagauri
Ashtami (eighth day)of Navratri is dedicated to Devi Mahagauri. Mahagauri is a representation of wisdom and harmony. Pink, a color that symbolizes optimism, is the color linked with this day.
Navami Tithi – Devi Siddhidatri
People pray to Siddhidhatri on the Navratri’s final day, also known as Maha Navami or Navami (the ninth day). She is regarded as possessing and bestowing all Siddhis while seated on a lotus .
-
Haridwar: The holy city
A city that is believed to have its origin in Hindu mythology, Haridwar is an ancient as a place can be. Centuries old temples, fascinating religious ceremonies, locals that are too happy to tell you of Hindu folklore. Lose yourself to the serenity that surrounds the Ganga ghats around sunrise or watch the fascinating arti in evening, it is the stuff that spiritual experiences are made of. Other than its religious significance, it is a fast emerging centre of yoga, meditation and Ayurvedic practices. Visit it for an experience that is nothing less than once in a lifetime.
As a city that is believed to have its origin in Hindu scriptures, there is no dearth of interesting, largely religious, places to visit in Haridwar. Some of the must-visits in the city are Mansa Devi Temple and Chandi Devi Temple (both are highly revered as siddha peethas), Daksha Mahadev Temple, the ancient shrine of Piran Kaliyar and Har ki Paudi. A visit to Rajaji National Park, Patanjali Yogpeeth and Shantikunj Ashram is perfect for ones searching for something offbeat in the city.
HAR KI PAUDI
This is one of the main attractions for those traveling to Haridwar and Rishikesh for religious purposes. This is believed to be the exit point of the Ganges from the mountains and entry into the plains. The ghat is also known as Brahma Kund, and was built by King Vikramaditya in memory of his brother Brithari who often meditated on the banks of river Ganga. History records an imprint of Lord Vishnu’s foot on one of the stones present on the ghat, which is where this religious site takes its name from. This is regarded the most sacred and auspicious point to bathe in the Ganga during the Kumbh which is held every 12 years, and taking a dip is a sacred practice believed to rid those who do of their worldly sins.
PATANJALI YOG PEETH
Located in Haridwar, this is the centre for Yoga and Ayurveda activities in India. Named after Maharishi Patanjali who invented Yoga 5000 years ago, the ashram is run under the guidance of Swami Ramdev Ji Maharaj who has revived Yoga and helped in spreading it across the world. Patahnajali Yog Peeth provides visitors with several facilities including Yoga classes where you’re taught ancient techniques like Tattva Yoga, Kriya Yoga, Hatha Yoga and Ashtana Yoga. Visitors can stay at the on-site accommodation and avail of the natural health therapies, ayurvedic treatments, a canteen, an OPD centre and therapy offered to patients with long term diseases. Set amidst well maintained and hygienic environs, this is definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in learning yoga or immersing yourself in meditation.
MANSA DEVI TEMPLE
Mansa Devi Temple is one of the most famous places to visit in Haridwar. One of the three siddha peethas in the city, it is located atop Bilwa Parvat of the Shivalik range of Himalayas. The temple is supposedly one of the abodes of Hindu Goddess Parvati, the other being Chandi Devi Temple. Hundreds of devotees visit it everyday for it is highly reverential for Hindus. The numbers increase by manifolds during Navratra celebrations and Kumbh Mela. It is advisable to visit it early in the day to avoid crowd. Impressive views of the entire city from the temple, its trek and the ropeway to it will bowl you over.
CHANDI DEVI TEMPLE
This is one of the most ancient temples in Haridwar. Perched atop Neel Parvat in the Shivaliks, it was built at the behest of King Suchat Singh of Kashmir in 1929. A much revered Siddha Peetha, the temple’s sanctum houses the main idol that dates back to 8th century. The temple site is believed to be the resting place of Goddess Chamunda during her battle with demons named Shumbha and Nishumbha. The temple is surrounded by dense forest and makes for a perfect vantage point for photographers. It can be accessed via a three km trek or a ropeway that connects it to the city.
RAJAJI NATIONAL PARK
Distinct for its pristine scenic beauty and rich bio-diversity, the Rajaji National Park in the is situated along the foothills of the Shivalik range and exhibits the Shivalik ecosystem. Rajaji is one of northern India’s major wildlife reserves, and is one of the best places to see the flora and fauna of the terai region. The park has been named after the late freedom fighter Sri C. Rajgopalachari, who was popularly referred to as ‘Rajaji’. The park was created back in 1983, after integrating three sanctuaries – Rajaji, Motichur and Chilla – into a large protected area. Take an elephant ride in the morning or evening, and get ready to spot as many as 23 species of mammals and 315 birds.
SHANTIKUNJ
Shantikunj is one of the most prominent spiritual centres/ashrams in Haridwar. Open to people of all religions, it organises discourses on world peace, unity and love. Visitors can attend the daily yajna (ritual) that is organised to promote world peace. Various discourses and workshops are also held on the same. Its beautifully landscaped gardens are quite a lure and houses a food complex that sells essentially organic and Ayurvedic food. At just a 15 minute drive from Har ki Paudi, this ashram is a must visit for anyone seeking a different sort of experience in Haridwar.
Source: Happytrips
-
India climbs six notches to 40th position in Global Innovation Index 2022
India climbed six notches to 40th position in the Global Innovation Index 2022 on account of improvement in several parameters, according to a report by the Geneva-based World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Switzerland, the United States, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands are the world’s most-innovative economies, according to WIPO’s 2022 Global Innovation Index (GII), with China on the threshold of the top 10. Other emerging economies are also showing consistently strong performance, including India and Trkiye, both of which enter the top 40 for the first time, it said. “Canada is back among the top 15 global innovators (15th). Trkiye (37th) and India (40th) enter the top 40 for the first time,” the report said. “India’s innovation performance is above average for the upper middle-income group in almost every innovation pillar, with the exception of infrastructure, where it scores below average,” it said. India was at 46th position in 2021 and at 81st rank in 2015. Parameters for computing the index, include ‘institutions’, ‘human capital and research’, ‘infrastructure’, ‘market sophistication’, business sophistication’, ‘knowledge and technology outputs’ and ‘create outputs’.
The 2022 edition of the GII tracks the most recent global innovation trends against the background of an ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, slowing productivity growth and other evolving challenges. WIPO said a large number of countries use the GII to assess and improve their innovation ecosystems and use the index as a reference in economic plans and/or policies.
-
Global recession likely as cost of living soars: Chief economists’ survey
A global recession is becoming increasingly likely due to stubbornly high inflation and real wages continuing to fall, the World Economic Forum said on Wednesday citing a survey of chief economists from across the world. According to the WEF Chief Economists Outlook report, real wages are expected to continue falling across the world in 2022-2023 and the cost of living crisis is threatening social unrest, though inflationary pressures are expected to ease in the next year. The survey showed that food security could be at risk across large swathes of the globe over the next three years. Referring to rising concerns about food security triggering export restrictions, which risk exacerbating global supply disruptions, the report said India, the world’s largest rice exporter, introduced a ban on exports of broken rice and a 20 per cent export duty on other grades of rice. “Given that the stability of rice prices in 2022 was instrumental in preventing a fully-fledged global food crisis, the prospect of higher rice prices could spell potential emergency conditions in already stressed regions,” it added.
The survey of over 50 economists from the finance, insurance, professional services and technology industries, as well as international organizations and regional development banks, found that they expect reduced growth, stubbornly high inflation and continuing fall in real wages for the remainder of 2022 and 2023.
An average of seven out of ten economists consider a global recession to be at least “somewhat likely”. Prospects for the global economy have deteriorated further in past few months with expectations for growth pared back across all regions.
Almost nine out of ten of the chief economists expected growth in Europe to be weak in 2023, while moderate growth is expected in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, the US, South Asia and Latin America.
The grim outlook for growth is being driven in part by high inflation, which has triggered sharp monetary tightening across many economies. With the exception of China and the MENA region, most of the chief economists surveyed expect high inflation to persist for the remainder of 2022, with expectations somewhat moderating in 2023.
As the high cost of living reverberates around the world, the chief economists were in agreement that wages will fail to keep pace with surging prices in 2022 and 2023, with nine in ten expecting real wages to decline in low-income economies during that period, alongside 80 per cent in high-income economies.
With household purchasing power weakening, the majority of the chief economists expected poverty levels across low-income countries to increase, compared with 60 per cent in high-income countries. “Growing inequality between and within countries is the ongoing legacy of COVID-19, war and uncoordinated policy action. With inflation soaring and real wages falling, the global cost of living crisis is hitting the most vulnerable hardest, said Saadia Zahidi, Managing Director at the World Economic Forum. “As policymakers aim to control inflation while minimizing the impact on growth, they will need to ensure specific support to those who need it most. The stakes could not be higher,” she added. The cost of living crisis is driving concerns around energy and food prices, the survey showed. Many chief economists appeared concerned about the risks of food insecurity in South Asia and Central Asia, while nearly 80 per cent of the respondents expected rising costs to trigger social unrest in low-income countries versus 20 per cent in high-income economies.
Source: PTI
-
External debt rises by 7.1% to breach $600 bn-mark
India’s external debt has risen by 7.1% to $617.1 billion in June 2022 as against $575.3 billion during the corresponding period last year, according to data released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
Compared to March 2022, when the external debt had stood at $619 billion, there has been a marginal drop in external debt in June 2022, which was $617 billion. In another statement, the government said there is no overshooting of its borrowing programme for the current fiscal. According to the RBI, US dollar-denominated debt was the largest component of India’s external debt, accounting for 54.7% at the end of June. This was followed by debt denominated in the Indian rupee (30.4%), SDR or special drawing rights (6.3%), yen (5.1%), and euro (2.8%). Short-term debt on residual maturity basis was 45.4% of total external debt at end-June 2022 as against 43.2% at end-March 2022. It was 47.6% of foreign exchange reserves.
-
India star among emerging market economies, says S&P
S&P Global Ratings on Thursday , September 29, said rising rates and increased European energy insecurity are hitting growth in almost every country, but India with an estimated 7.3% growth this fiscal, would be the ‘star’ among emerging market economies. In a report, S&P said global macro performance over the next few quarters points towards growth slowdown with tightening financial conditions amid rate hikes by central banks. Most leading and sentiment indicators are pointing toward slower growth as well. Growth eased in the second quarter across emerging markets as inflation reduced real household income, business confidence deteriorated, and the external environment became more complicated, it said. Emerging-market central banks have been ahead of their advanced-country counterparts in hiking policy rates, and in Latin America they are now near the end of their tightening cycles. Elsewhere, core inflation continues to rise, suggesting there is more work to do. Large recent hikes by the US Federal Reserve are exacerbating balance-of-payment strains across emerging markets. “For the 16 emerging economies that we cover, excluding China, 2022 GDP growth will hit 5.2% this year, in our view. This forecast is up 30 basis points from our previous round. India is the star of this group with growth of 7.3% this fiscal year (ending in March 2023),” S&P said. The US-based agency said as central banks aggressively raise rates to fight inflation, our confidence is waning that they can avoid generating a sharp downturn.
-
This new iOS 16 feature could be draining your battery faster
iOS 16 has finally arrived on all iPhones, including the iPhone 8 and later, and has brought a plethora of new enticing features along with it, including haptic feedback for the keyboard. However, as first reported by 9To5Mac, Apple has now said that the feature might reduce battery life. Haptic feedback while typing is a feature that has been available on Android phones for a while now. Some phones like the Google Pixel are particularly known for facilitating a satisfying haptic feedback with each press. Apple’s implementation is similar, with a subtle response every time you click. But the response is a lot more muted than compared to something like the Pixel 6. Now that Apple has created a support page that says “Turning on keyboard haptics might affect the battery life of your iPhone,” all things point towards Apple trying to conserve battery life for its users.
To enable the Haptic Feedback for your iPhone keyboard, follow these steps:
– Go to Settings > Sounds & Haptics.
– Then look for ‘Keyboard Feedback.’
– Open it and then turn on Haptic Feedback.
Interestingly, we have not seen a major drop in battery life while enabling the keyboard haptic feedback on our iPhone 12 Mini. So, depending on your smartphone’s battery health, the experience could vary.
Source: News18
-
Electric planes are coming: Short-hop regional flights could be running on batteries in a few years
Electric planes might seem futuristic, but they aren’t that far off, at least for short hops. Two-seater Velis Electros are already quietly buzzing around Europe, electric sea planes are being tested in British Columbia, and larger planes are coming. Air Canada announced on September 15 that it would buy 30 electric-hybrid regional aircraft from Sweden’s Heart Aerospace, which expects to have its 30-seat plane in service by 2028. Analysts at the US National Renewable Energy Lab note that the first hybrid electric 50 to 70-seat commuter plane could be ready not long after that. In the 2030s, they say, electric aviation could really take off. That matters for managing climate change. About 3 per cent of global emissions come from aviation today, and with more passengers and flights expected as the population expands, aviation could be producing three to five times more carbon dioxide emissions by 2050 than it did before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Aerospace engineer and assistant professor Gökçin Çinar develops sustainable aviation concepts, including hybrid-electric planes and hydrogen fuel alternatives, at the University of Michigan. We asked her about the key ways to cut aviation emissions today and where technologies like electrification and hydrogen are headed.
Why is aviation so difficult to electrify?
Aircraft are some of the most complex vehicles out there, but the biggest problem for electrifying them is the battery weight.
If you tried to fully electrify a 737 with today’s batteries, you would have to take out all the passengers and cargo and fill that space with batteries just to fly for under an hour.
Jet fuel can hold about 50 times more energy compared to batteries per unit mass. So, you can have 1 pound of jet fuel or 50 pounds of batteries. To close that gap, we need to either make lithium-ion batteries lighter or develop new batteries that hold more energy. New batteries are being developed, but they aren’t yet ready for aircraft.
An electric alternative is hybrids
Even though we might not be able to fully electrify a 737, we can get some fuel burn benefits from batteries in the larger jets by using hybrid propulsion systems. We are trying to make that happen in the short term, with a 2030-2035 target for smaller regional planes. The less fuel burned during flight, the fewer greenhouse gas emissions.
How does hybrid aviation work to cut emissions?
Hybrid electric aircraft are similar to hybrid electric cars in that they use a combination of batteries and aviation fuels. The problem is that no other industry has the weight limitations that we do in the aerospace industry. That’s why we have to be very smart about how and how much we are hybridising the propulsion system. Using batteries as a power assist during takeoff and climb are very promising options. Taxiing to the runway using just electric power could also save a significant amount of fuel and reduce the local emissions at airports. There is a sweet spot between the added weight of the battery and how much electricity you can use to get net fuel benefits. This optimisation problem is at the centre of my research. Hybrids would still burn fuel during flight, but it could be considerably less than just relying entirely on jet fuel. Source: PTI
-
In 1st planetary defence test, NASA’s Dart mission hits asteroid
After flying in space for 10 months, a NASA spacecraft successfully crashed into an asteroid on Tuesday, September 27, in a first-of-its-kind mission to test whether space rocks that might threaten Earth in the future could be nudged safely out of the way, the US space agency said. The Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) — the world’s first planetary defence technology demonstration — targeted the asteroid moonlet Dimorphos, a small body just 160 m in diameter. Dimorphos orbits a larger 780-m asteroid called Didymos. Neither asteroid poses a threat to Earth. The mission’s one-way trip confirmed NASA can successfully navigate a spacecraft to intentionally collide with an asteroid to deflect it, a technique known as kinetic impact, the agency said. “Dart represents an unprecedented success for planetary defence, but it is also a mission of unity with a real benefit for all humanity,” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. The team will now observe Dimorphos using ground-based telescopes to confirm that Dart’s impact altered the asteroid’s orbit around Didymos.
-
Stargazers capture Jupiter, its 4 moons in rare closest date with Earth
Stargazers across the world were left mesmerised when they caught the closest glimpse of the giant gas planet with its four moons — some lucky ones saw it with just binoculars. People took to Twitter with images and videos they captured of Jupiter along with its four largest moons — Io, Europa, Ganymede and Callisto, called the Galilean satellites.
“After staying up all night shooting it, here is my shot of Jupiter at ‘Opposition’. This is the closest it has been to Earth in 59 years,” tweeted Andrew McCarthy, a stargazer from Arizona state in the US. From the viewpoint of Earth’s surface, opposition happens when an astronomical object rises in the east as the Sun sets in the west, placing the object and the Sun on opposite sides of the Earth. Aloke Kumar, Associate Professor at Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, tweeted: “Jupiter so bright. It is peering right through the clouds! You can even see three of the Galilean moons!”
-
Code Name Tiranga: Parineeti Chopra goes undercover in this mish-mash of spy thrillers
After the Hindi adaptation of The Girl on the Train, Parineeti Chopra is back with another Ribhu Dasgupta directorial, Code Name Tiranga. The trailer of the upcoming film where she stars alongside Harrdy Sandhu, Sharad Kelkar and others dropped on Tuesday and from what we can gauge from the almost-three-minute trailer, this looks like a film with loads of action with a solid dose of deshbhakti. The trailer opens with the introduction of Kelkar’s villain who is being hunted by Chopra’s spy. She plays an agent who has gone undercover to trap the terrorist. She falls in love with Sandhu’s character and now it’s a battle between her duty and love. From the looks of it, the trailer does not offer anything that we have not seen in many films and web series. Dasgupta’s spy thriller Bard of Blood, which premiered on Netflix in 2019, was visually very similar to what we are seeing here. The series was panned by viewers and critics. Parineeti had three releases in 2021 – The Girl on the Train, Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar and Saina – and while all of them were not outstanding films, all her characters were vastly different from one another. Code Name Tiranga is in sync with those choices. “As an actor, we are constantly blessed to have many firsts all through our career. I’m thrilled that in my 11th year in cinema, I’m doing my first full-blown action film,” Parineeti previously said in a statement.
Source: Indianexpress
-
Doctor G, Double XL and Code Name: Tiranga to clash in theatres on October 14
The release dates of multiple releases were affected due to the pandemic. From postponement of shooting schedule to the theatrical releases being put on hold, many Bollywood films have borne the brunt of the lockdown. Now, it seems that the month of October will yet again see a clash between not two but three films. Ayushmann Khurrana – Rakul Preet Singh, Sonakshi Sinha – Huma Qureshi, Parineeti Chopra – Harrdy Sandhu will be battling it out in theatres for their films Doctor G, Double XL, and Code Name: Tiranga respectively, on October 14.
The much-awaited clash that the theatres saw was during the occasion of Rakshabandhan in August when the Akshay Kumar starrer Raksha Bandhan clashed with the Aamir Khan starrer Laal Singh Chaddha. However, neither of the films could manage to act as crowd-pullers despite a long weekend. As for the much talked about clash on October 14, the said films also offer a wide variety of genres. Doctor G features Ayushmann Khurrana who gets into gynecology and struggles to become a doctor in a field that is highly female-centric. Double XL revolves around Sonakshi Sinha and Huma Qureshi’s attempt to make their mark in a society obsessed with slim and thin figures. On the other hand, Code Name: Tiranga is a patriotic film featuring Parineeti Chopra in a never seen before avatar of a fearless spy.
Interestingly, Code Name: Tiranga and Double XL are both produced by T-Series whereas Doctor G is produced by Junglee Pictures. While Doctor G will bring together the onscreen pairing of Ayushmann Khurrana and Rakul Preet Singh for the first time, Code Name: Tiranga will feature Harrdy Sandhu as the male lead in a Bollywood film for the first time. On the other hand, Double XL will bring together Sonakshi Sinha and Huma Qureshi for the first time on the big screen.
Source: Bollywood Hungama
-
Gul Panag to play a lawyer in ‘Good Bad Girl’
Gul Panag will be soon seen in the upcoming streaming show Good Bad Girl. The actress will be portraying the character of a lawyer for the first time. The show, set against the backdrop of Mumbai, revolves around Maya Ahuja, a lively and quirky girl who has three different stories to tell. Talking about the show, Panag said, “I was quite intrigued by the script and the show’s concept. The story comes with a lot of spunk yet is an everyday story that the audiences will relate to and have a good laugh. The characters are all quirky and freshly written, with various layers to them which add the right spice to the story.”
“I’m playing a lawyer for the first time, and my character Zaina Mistry is the one who balances out the eccentricities of the other characters in the show. She is the voice of reason, much like how I am in real life as well. The show brings a bunch of talented artists under a roof which has made the journey of filming incredible,” She further added.