Gaza City (tip): Young children wandered through the charred shell of what had been a school sheltering displaced Palestinians on Thursday, after a pre-dawn Israeli strike killed 15 people there according to the civil defence agency.
Tattered clothes hung from the blackened exterior of the building in western Gaza City, as rubble still smouldered below in the morning light. Bloodstains dotted the ground strewn with the remnants of daily life. Clothing, metal chairs, tins of food and part of an electric fan lay amongst the wreckage, AFP footage showed. “This is not a life,” said Umm Yassin Abu Awda, a Gaza City resident who stood amongst mourners at the city’s Al-Shifa Hospital following the strike. “Either you strike us with a nuclear bomb and end it all, or people’s conscience needs to finally wake up.”
Contacted by AFP, the Israeli military said it “struck a key Hamas terrorist who was operating in a Hamas command and control center in Gaza City”.
“Prior to the strike, numerous steps were taken to mitigate the risk of harming civilians,” it added.
Mahmud Bassal, spokesman for Gaza’s civil defence agency, told AFP that most of the 15 killed in Thursday’s strike were women and children.
He also reported a large number of injuries in the “Israeli air strike on the Mustafa Hafez School, which shelters displaced persons, in the Al-Rimal neighbourhood”.
They were among 69 people that the agency reported killed by Israeli forces on Thursday in the Palestinian territory, where Israel has recently expanded its military operations.
Nearly all of Gaza’s population has been displaced at least once during the nearly 21-month war, which has created dire humanitarian conditions for the more than two million people living there.
Many have sought shelter in school buildings, but these have repeatedly come under Israeli attacks that the military often says target Hamas militants hiding among civilians.
Media restrictions in Gaza and difficulties in accessing many areas mean AFP is unable to independently verify the tolls and details provided by the civil defence.
At Mustafa Hafez School, a colourful mural on a wall next to the wreckage showed a smiling boy walking past a tree and a woman next to a Palestinian flag.
A small group sat on chairs in what was once the playground of the school.
Inside the building, a group of young boys surveyed the damage and climbed on upturned furniture while others sifted through the debris.
Crowds of mourners gathered at Al-Shifa Hospital, where men and women wept over the bodies of the dead.
“We have no life left. Let them just annihilate us so we can finally rest,” said one woman who lost relatives in the strike and did not give her name.
“There’s nothing left for us. My two daughters are gone — and now my niece, along with her six children and her husband, were burned to death,” she said, her voice breaking with emotion.
At least 57,130 people have been killed in Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, mostly civilians, according to the Hamas-run territory’s health ministry. The United Nations considers its figures reliable.
The war was triggered by Palestinian militant group Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel which resulted in the deaths of 1,219 people, also mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures. (afp)
Month: July 2025
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‘This is not life’: Gazans reel from Israeli strike on school-turned-shelter
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Shubman Gill’s dazzling 269 breaks raft of records
Edgbaston (TIP)- It was just over six months ago that Shubman Gill paid the price for not making the most of his starts in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He was dropped from the 11 for the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground and the head-down trudge off the ground even before the warm-ups ended on Day 1 had spoken of a fire that burned deep within.
There was disappointment. It hurt. This wasn’t something he wanted to understand. But when asked about it, all he had done was smile. Now, playing at a venue where India have never won, Gill did more than just grab his chance. His 269 (387 balls, 30×4, 3×6) was the cornerstone around which India’s massive total of 587 runs was built. It is the highest score by an Indian in England, surpassing Sunil Gavaskar’s majestic 221 at the Oval in 1979. It is also the highest score by an Indian captain in Tests, surpassing Virat Kohli’s 254* against South Africa in 2019.
In reply, England reached 77/3 at close of play. The hosts still trail by 510 runs.
For most of the innings, Gill just smiled. When he was beaten, when he was forced to scramble, when he was joined by Ravindra Jadeja (89) with India on 211/5 but it was only when he got to the milestones did the fire burst out onto the surface. Usually, he just bows to the crowd. But here he let all the pent-up emotion out when he reached his century and then the double. He wanted this more than anything else and sometimes that’s where it all begins.
Gill seemed unflappable. A calm presence in the middle that is perhaps only distinguished by the sound of the ball hitting his bat. It is that sound that he was looking for in Australia but it is only now, in England, that he has found it again. The IPL helped. He scored 650 runs at an average of 50.00 and came into England in a good frame of mind. But the thing that has stood out the most in his batting in England has not been the shots but the defence. He looked to play everything right under his eye… as late as possible and the start to the innings had a very measured tone to it. While Yashasvi Jaiswal went for his shots, Gill took his time and the tight defence allowed him to do that. It also made the England look rather helpless. On a wicket like this, the bowling side have to keep plugging away and hope the batters make a mistake. But while many of India’s batters did that, Gill simply didn’t bite.
The knock will ensure that Gill’s away Test record won’t be questioned for a long time and that, in turn, should make him an even more confident skipper. There are some who might say that this is a flat track and they aren’t wrong but how many of the other Indian batters truly made the opportunity count?
Gill, however, didn’t do it alone. He found an able ally in Jadeja, who showed why he is the world’s top allrounder once again and then in Washington Sundar. The 203-run stand between Gill and Jadeja, followed by the 144-run stand between Gill and Washington helped India take complete charge of the match. The definition of an allrounder is a player who would get into the team either as a batter or a bowler. But these days we have batters who can bowl and bowlers who can bat. Jadeja fits the original definition to the T. He averages 34.75 with the bat and 24.54 with the ball — just the numbers alone place him among India’s best batters and bowlers. Nothing bits and pieces about that and there are no caveats there either.
The last time he played at Edgbaston, he had scored a century (104 off 194 balls) and this time, he got close again. His consistency is what sets him apart and that is something Washington would love to incorporate. Not yet an allrounder in the Jadeja mould, Washington has shown over the course of his short career that he certainly has the batting chops.
His 42 (103 balls) ensured that India’s innings didn’t come to an abrupt end as it did twice in the first Test and that allowed the visitors to put up a total that will allow their bowlers to keep attacking for the rest of the match. Source: HT
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Djokovic cruises past Evans in statement win
London (TIP)- After all these years, Novak Djokovic knew this particular Wimbledon tradition well. The post-match winner’s on-court speech. On Thursday, in front of packed stands on the fabled Centre Court of the All England Club, Djokovic stepped up to the microphone for the 99th time in his 20th year of competing at the Grand Slam in London. “It means that I’ve been playing quite a long time,” Djokovic said. “Nineteen times (reaching the third round at Wimbledon), that’s probably almost as much as (Jannik) Sinner and (Carlos) Alcaraz have years in their life.”
The mood in the post-match interview was jovial. But in that hour and 47 minutes just before, the seven-time Wimbledon champion was in no mood for fun. Days after he needed some “magic pills” to help him overcome a stomach bug in the first-round match against Alexandre Muller, Djokovic played a solid game to pick up a 6-3, 6-2, 6-0 win over British player Dan Evans. “I had prepared well for the match,” he said. “Technically, tactically, I knew what I needed to do. I executed it perfectly. Sometimes you have these kinds of days.”
Djokovic hammered home 46 winners to Evans’ 19, and committed 14 unforced errors to his opponent’s 18. The serve, too, remained unbroken throughout the match. This was a statement win against an opponent who had beaten Djokovic the only time the duo had met previously, at the Monte Carlos Masters in 2021.
For a man driven by statistics, there are quite a few on offer at Wimbledon this year for Djokovic. The win on Thursday, July 3, takes him one step closer to a century of wins at Wimbledon.
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Sikkim: The hidden jewel of the Himalayas
In the northeast of India, nestled between Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet, lies one of the most mesmerizing yet underexplored states of the country-Sikkim. With its snow-capped peaks, lush green valleys, Buddhist monasteries, glacial lakes, and vibrant cultural tapestry, Sikkim is an exquisite blend of nature, spirituality, adventure, and sustainable living. This tiny Himalayan paradise, despite being India’s second smallest state, offers experiences far larger than its size.
Whether you’re a trekking enthusiast, a nature lover, a seeker of peace, or a cultural explorer, Sikkim promises a journey like no other.
Nature’s Wonderland
From the subtropical forests of the south to the alpine meadows of the north, Sikkim is a land of astounding ecological diversity. Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain at 8,586 meters, is not just a spectacular backdrop-it’s a spiritual guardian, revered by the locals. The entire state seems to revolve around this sacred peak, and every glimpse of it feels like a blessing.
Gurudongmar Lake
Located at a height of 17100 feet above sea level, Gurudongmar Lake in Sikkim is the second-highest lake in India. Needless to say, with an altitude of such magnitude, the lake defies all description. Located just about 5 km south of the Indo-China border and about 190 kilometers from the capital city of Gangtok, the lake has a massive shore length of about 5.34 kilometers and a surface area of about 118 hectares. The lake is considered to be a holy lake by both Sikhs, Hindus, and Buddhists and believed to have some divine power. The lake also provides a beautiful view of Mount Siniolchu and Khanchendzonga among other snow-capped mountains. It acts as a source to the river Teesta. Reaching Sikkim Gurudongmar Lake takes around 8-9 hours by road from Gangtok to reach Gurudongmar Lake. The Gurudongmar Lake in Sikkim is located en route Lachen, a small town in North Sikkim. A night stay at Lachen is recommended before heading for the lake. It takes around 3-4 hours to reach the lake from Lachen.
Tsomgo Lake
The Tsomgo Lake, also popular as the Changu Lake, is a water body made of a glacier making it one of the best places to visit in Gangtok. Located at the altitude of 12310 feet, the Tsomgo Lake is one of Sikkim’s prime tourist attractions. The lake is located 38 km from Gangtok, en route to the Nathula Pass. This is one of India’s highest altitude lakes and it’s known for its natural beauty. The sight of the surrounding snow cover hills reflecting on the Tsomgo Lake is one memory that you can cherish forever. The lake is about 1 km long and it’s shaped like an egg.
Nathula Pass
Nathula Pass is located at a height of 14140 feet and this is the best place to be for the trekking enthusiasts when visiting Sikkim. The border trade market, Sherathang, is a popular place where tourists can buy different kinds of Tibetan items at a cheap price. This Sikkim point of interest is famous among travelers. Near to that, there is a tiny place called Kupup. It always stays under clouds, which surely will be a nice experience for you. The view from the Nathula Pass is remarkable too.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp
Located at the height of almost 14,000ft above sea level, the Kanchenjunga Base camp is one of the best Sikkim tourist places and a heaven for all the adventurers. Together forming one of the most beautiful parts of the Himalayas, the Kanchenjunga range is one of the most picturesque regions of Sikkim, and all that can be seen in utmost clarity and mightiness from the base camp.
The real adventure for people is to see the third highest mountain in the world up close to here, and that is why this place is worth the visit at least once in a lifetime.
Yumthang Valley of Flowers
The undulating meadows, the grazing yaks by the banks of wild Teesta river and the many hot springs amid the towering mountain peaks position Yumthang valley among the top places to visit in Sikkim. The valley of flowers is carpeted at a height of more than 11,000 feet above sea level at around 128 kilometres from Gangtok. You can book one of our Gangtok Tours from a vivid choice of packages we have for you so that you don’t miss out the best of Gangtok.
Come to visit the valley in late February to march when the Losar festival is celebrated by the locals. During the month of April and June, the Rhododendrons bloom and envelop the valley in full glory.
Goechala
Standing at a height of about 4,940 m above sea level, the high mountain pass of Goechala (Goecha La) is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim. Being in the proximity of some of the highest mountains of the Himalayas, the pass is an amazing destination for all the trekkers visiting Sikkim. The best thing about this place is the beautiful view of Mt. Kanchenjunga’s southeast face.
The view from the pass is so breathtakingly beautiful that it was featured on the back of the 100 Rupee note of India. Acting as the base of the summit for Kanchenjunga, this place is a must visit for the beauty of it.
Green Lake
Fix your eyes to the jade-green lake surrounded by snow-covered glaciers and mountains. Green Lake is still an unexplored and unhindered destination in Sikkim. It serves as a base to the those willing to climb Mount Kanchenjunga and Zemu glacier.
Starting from Thangu village, the trek to Green lake passes through the magnificent Kanchenjunga National Park and also brings forth the scenery of the confluence of the Zemu Chu and Lachen Chu which are two very significant rivers of the region.
From Gangtok, you drive to Lachen via Mangan and then Thangu to start your trek. Keep your eyes open for wildlife, especially for the rarely found Red Panda in the region.
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Sawan Maas: A journey through faith, fasting and the flow of grace
As the skies open up with the first showers of monsoon and the scent of wet earth rises, India enters a spiritually rich and deeply symbolic time of the year-Sawan Maas, also known as Shravan Month. It is the fifth month of the Hindu lunar calendar and is considered the holiest for the worship of Lord Shiva, the destroyer and regenerator in the Hindu Trinity.
Marked by devotion, fasting, pilgrimages, and vibrant rituals, Sawan (typically falling in July-August) is not just a time of religious observance but of inner transformation. During this sacred period, the air echoes with chants of “Har Har Mahadev”, rivers brim with pilgrims, and temples overflow with faith and fervor.
The Significance of Sawan Maas
Sawan Maas is imbued with spiritual energy due to its cosmic alignment. According to Hindu scriptures, this is the month when Lord Shiva saved the universe by consuming the lethal poison (Halahala) that emerged during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the cosmic ocean). His act of sacrifice and compassion is revered with heightened devotion throughout Sawan.
Additionally, the month is ruled by the Moon (Soma), which is closely associated with the calming, meditative aspect of Shiva. It is also believed that during Sawan, the celestial energies are most conducive for spiritual practices like meditation, mantra chanting, and self-purification. The month of Shravan brings an opportunity to be bestowed with divinity. Shravan month is an auspicious period to worship the deities. Among all the deities, Lord Shiva is considered to be the most divine. It is believed that worshipping Lord Shiva during the month of Shravan brings in favourable results. Shravan is the fifth month of Hindu Calendar. The entire month is primarily devoted to Lord Shiva, and Shravan Somvar fast is followed to invoke his blessings. As the name suggests, Shravan Somvar Vrata is performed on Mondays, especially by women in the desire of a safe and protected household. Unmarried girls who desire for an ideal husband also perform the fast of Sawan Somvar Vrat.
Sawan Somwar Vrat
It is believed that Sawan Somvar fasts are highly beneficial for the unmarried girls. By observing the Somvar Vrat, they get married to the person of their choice. Sawan Somvar Vrat is significant because it fulfils the desire of a person and all dreams come true. By observing the Sawan Somvar fast and worshipping Lord Shiva, devotees can achieve desired results.
Legend
According to Purana, Samudra Manthan took place in the Shravan month, when the gods and the demons churned the ocean. As a result, fourteen divine items emerged out of the ocean. Halahala (a deadly poison) also came out as a by-product. Lord Shiva swallowed the poison to save the world from destruction. It could not seep through his throat.
The swallowing of poison turned his throat blue. Hence, he is known as Neelkantha (blue throat). It eventually was the reason of observing Sawan Somvar Vrat (in the month of Sawan) in honour of Lord Shiva.
Celebrations and Rituals
Sawan Somvar Vrat is categorised as following:
– Savan Somvar is the fast that is observed on Mondays, in the month of Savan.
– Solah Somvar Vrats is the observance of sixteen fasts on consecutive Mondays which commence in the month of Savan.
– Saumya Pradesh is observed till the evening in Shravan month.
– Devotees should wake up early in the morning and take a bath. Visit Lord Shiva temple and offer milk to Shiva Lingam. At home, clean the Puja place (worshiping place) and adorn your soul to welcome the Lord. A Sankalp (oath) is taken to perform the Sawan Somvar Vrat with total devotion. Shiv Puja is performed twice in a day. Devotees must cleanse themselves properly to venerate the Lord once again after the Sun sets. Solah Somvar Vrat Katha or Sawan Vrat Katha is an important element. Somvar Vrat Katha is recited on every Monday of Sawan vrat. Solah Somvar Vrat Katha portrays the life of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. After the Puja, Prasad is distributed among the friends and family members.
Things to do
Devotees fast to please Lord Shiva:
– Fasting during this entire month is considered very auspicious. Waking up early morning, visiting the Shiva temple, and offering a mixture of milk, ghee, yogurt, ganga jal, and honey also known as Panchamrut along with Bilva leaves is a must. One can have milk and milk products, fruits and other fasting approved items during this time.
– Fasting on all Shravan somvar, especially for unmarried women who are seeking a good husband.
– As Rudraksh is symbolic to Lord Shiva, wearing the Rudraksha is considered very auspicious as well. Devout devotees of Lord Shiva make sure to wear a Rudraksh during this time of the year to please him.Devotees also do japa with Rudraksh mala to please Lord Shiva.
– Offering Panchamrut, bilva leaves, gangajal, dhatura, along with Honey or sugar and Bibhuti to Lord Shiva is considered very auspicious.
– The Mangal Gauri Vrata is also done by married women during this month for the health and prosperity of their households.
Religious & Cultural Practices
- Sawan Somwar (Mondays)
Each Monday of Sawan is considered supremely auspicious and is marked by the observance of Sawan Somwar Vrat (fasting and special puja). Devotees throng Shiva temples to offer milk, water, belpatra (bilva leaves), honey, curd, and fruits on the Shiva Lingam.
Women, especially unmarried girls, fast and pray for an ideal husband like Lord Shiva, while married women seek the long life and prosperity of their spouses. Chanting the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra and Om Namah Shivaya is considered especially potent during this time.
- Kanwar Yatra
One of the most visually striking and spiritually intense rituals of Sawan is the Kanwar Yatra. Every year, millions of Kanwariyas (devotees of Shiva) embark on foot pilgrimages to collect holy water from the Ganga River and offer it at prominent Shiva temples like Haridwar, Deoghar (Baidyanath Dham), Sultanganj, and Varanasi.
Dressed in saffron, carrying decorated kanwars (yokes), and chanting “Bol Bam,” these pilgrims walk for miles as an act of devotion and penance.
- Shravan Shivratri
While Maha Shivratri is observed in Phalguna (Feb-Mar), Shravan Shivratri, falling on the Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi of Shravan, is equally sacred. Devotees fast, perform night-long vigils, and worship Shiva with full rituals.
- Daily Puja and Fasting
Many devotees follow daily fasting throughout the month-some consuming only fruits and milk, others doing nirjala vrat (without food and water) on specific days. Daily pujas include Shiva Abhishekam, lighting of lamps, and reading of scriptures like the Shiva Purana, Shiv Chalisa, and Sawan Vrat Katha.
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Nvidia to become world’s most valued company ever with $3.9 trillion market cap
washington (TIP)- Nvidia NVDA.O was on track to become the most valuable company in history on Thursday, July 3, with the chipmaker’s market capitalisation reaching $3.92 trillion as Wall Street doubled down on optimism about AI.
Shares of the leading designer of high-end AI chips were up 2.2 per cent at $160.6 in morning trading, giving the company a higher market capitalisation than Apple’s AAPL.O record closing value of $3.915 trillion on December 26, 2024.
Nvidia’s newest chips have made gains in training the largest artificial-intelligence models, fuelling demand for products by the Santa Clara, California, company. Microsoft MSFT.O is currently the second-most valuable company on Wall Street, with a market capitalisation of $3.7 trillion as its shares rose 1.5 per cent to $498.5.
Apple rose 0.8 per cent, giving it a market value of $3.19 trillion, in third place.
A race among Microsoft, Amazon.com AMZN.O, Meta Platforms META.O, Alphabet GOOGL.O and Tesla TSLA.O to build AI data centres and dominate the emerging technology has fuelled insatiable demand for Nvidia’s high-end processors.
“When the first company crossed a trillion dollars, it was amazing. And now you’re talking four trillion, which is just incredible. It tells you that there’s this huge rush with AI spending and everybody’s chasing it right now,” said Joe Saluzzi, co-manager of trading at Themis Trading.
The stock market value of Nvidia, whose core technology was developed to power video games, has increased nearly eight-fold over the past four years, from $500 billion in 2021.
Nvidia is now worth more than the combined value of the Canadian and Mexican stock markets, according to LSEG data. The tech company also exceeds the total value of all publicly listed companies in the United Kingdom.
Nvidia recently traded at about 32 times analysts’ expected earnings for the next 12 months, below its average of about 41 over the past five years, according to LSEG data. That relatively modest price-to-earnings valuation reflects steadily increasing earnings estimates that have outpaced Nvidia’s sizeable stock gains.
The company’s stock has now rebounded more than 68 per cent from its recent closing low on April 4, when Wall Street was reeling from President Donald Trump’s global tariff announcements. US stocks, including Nvidia, have recovered on expectations that the White House will cement trade deals to soften Trump’s tariffs.
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Asian equities mixed as Trump’s tariff deadline looms
Washington (TIP)- Asian markets showed mixed movement on Friday, July 4, as investors treaded carefully ahead of a looming US tariff deadline set by President Donald Trump. The uncertainty overshadowed positive cues from Wall Street, where a strong US jobs report lifted major indexes to record highs.
Trump told reporters on Thursday , July 3, that he planned to begin sending letters to trading partners detailing new tariffs, as his July 9 deadline approaches. “My inclination is to send a letter out and say what tariff they’re going to be paying,” he said, adding that letters could start going out “probably tomorrow, maybe 10 a day.”
The move follows his sweeping announcement of new levies on “Liberation Day” in early April, sparking a global rush for trade deals to avoid the tariffs. So far, only Britain and Vietnam have signed agreements, while China has reached a framework deal with Washington to reduce mutual tariffs and ease restrictions on some goods.
Tariff uncertainty grips investorsAs negotiations continue, investors worry that countries like Japan, South Korea, India, and Taiwan could soon face higher tariffs. The uncertainty weighed on markets across Asia. Tokyo, Shanghai, Sydney, Wellington, and Jakarta posted small gains, while Hong Kong, Seoul, Singapore, Taipei, and Manila ended lower. Despite these concerns, Wall Street closed strong ahead of the US Independence Day holiday. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq hit fresh record highs after US jobs data showed the economy added 147,000 jobs in June, above expectations, while unemployment fell to 4.1%.
However, the upbeat headline figures masked underlying weakness, analysts warned. MUFG said hiring in the private sector appeared to be stalling, with more than 750,000 people having exited the labor force over the past two months. “We continue to view labour demand as being fundamentally weak relative to the past several years,” they noted.
The labor data reduced expectations of a July interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve. Markets are now pricing in two rate cuts by year-end, the first likely in September.
Meanwhile, the passage of Trump’s “Big, Beautiful Bill,” which extends major tax and spending cuts, added to market confusion. While the legislation includes a $5 trillion debt limit increase, preventing a potential US default, it is also projected to add $3 trillion to the national debt.
Source: TOI
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Tibetans in exile wonder, will the next Dalai Lama be as charismatic as this one?
DHARAMSHALA (TIP): The Dalai Lama has announced that he intends to reincarnate, paving the way for a successor to take on a mantle stretching back 500 years after his death. But as he approaches his 90th birthday, that news hasn’t eased the worries of Tibetan Buddhists who wonder: What will happen when this Dalai Lama is gone?
For decades, the 14th Dalai Lama has been more than a spiritual leader. He has sustained a nation in exile and managed to build a community that’s kept the Tibetan culture and identity alive.
He is the China -reviled spokesperson for a Tibetan homeland that many, like him, can see only from afar. He has received a Nobel Peace Prize and been courted by royalty, politicians and Hollywood stars, helping him draw global attention and support for Tibet.
When his death comes, it will pitch the global Tibetan community into uncertainty, perhaps for years. His successor will have to be found through the traditional process of reincarnation. China, whose troops took control of Tibet in 1950, says it will reject anyone chosen without Beijing’s consent.
Tibetans in India’s Himalayan town of Dharamshala, the Dalai Lama’s home in exile, and scattered around the world fear a new onslaught on their cultural and religious identity.
“The absence of His Holiness would be a huge setback for the Tibetans,” said Penpa Tsering, the head of the democratically elected Tibetan government-in-exile. “The responsibility lies on us as to how we carry forward the legacy of His Holiness.”
The Dalai Lama has become one of the world’s most recognizable figures while leading a Tibetan diaspora through their struggle for autonomy and opposition of China’s control of Tibet. He has not named a successor, but he says they will be born in the “free world” — outside China.
Previous Dalai Lamas have been identified by senior monastic disciples, under strict religious rituals meant to identify their predecessor’s reincarnation. Monks interpret signs, consult oracles and send search committees to Tibetan households looking for a child who exhibits the qualities of the Dalai Lama.
All of this takes years of effort, leaving a leadership vacuum. Years of religious education and training are needed before the identified successor grows up and takes up full responsibilities as spiritual leader.
China has already sought to elevate other spiritual figures, particularly Tibetan Buddhism’s No. 2 figure, the Panchen Lama, whose legitimacy is highly contested by many Tibetans at home and in exile. (AP) -
An oil-drilling ship capsized in the Gulf of Suez, killing at least 4 crewmen, Egypt says
CAIRO (TIP): An oil-drilling ship capsized in the Gulf of Suez, killing at least four crewmen and leaving four others missing, authorities said Wednesday. The drilling ship overturned Tuesday evening off the city of Ras Ghareb, on the African side of the Gulf of Suez, the Red Sea’s northwestern arm and a crucial shipping route, the Petroleum Ministry said in a statement.
There were 30 workers on board when the drilling ship capsized, said Amr Hanafy, governor of the Red Sea province.
Rescue teams recovered four bodies and rescued two 22 others who were taken to hospitals, he said.
He said ships from the Egyptian navy joined the search-and-rescue efforts which were still ongoing overnight for four missing crewmen.
It wasn’t immediately clear what caused the drilling ship to capsize and authorities say investigations were ongoing. Local media reported it was being tugged for excavations in another area when it overturned.
The capsizing happened in an area called Gabel el-Zeit, a prominent Egyptian oil production site around 300 kilometers (186 miles) south of the Suez Canal, the ministry said in a statement.
The capsizing didn’t disrupt vessels transiting through the canal, which links the Gulf of Suez to the Mediterranean Sea, Adm. Ossam Rabei, head of the canal authority, said.
Rabei said in a statement that 33 vessels were scheduled to transit Wednesday through the global waterway. (AP) -
Stabbing attack wounds several in Finland; suspect held
HELSINKI (TIP): Several people were stabbed and wounded on Thursday near a shopping centre in the Finnish city of Tampere, and the suspect has been arrested, police said.
“The situation no longer poses a danger to outsiders. The victims are being given first aid,” police said in a statement, adding that they were unable to immediately provide more details, including the number of victims.
Several police cars and ambulances rushed to the scene after the violence, local media reported.
Police said they were alerted to the stabbing at 4:23 pm (1323 GMT), and the area outside the Ratina shopping centre was cordoned off and police were still talking to witnesses more than an hour later. Tampere, a city of around 260,000, is located around 180 kilometers (112 miles) north of Helsinki. (AFP) -
Mexican boxer Julio César Chávez Jr. arrested by ICE for deportation, federal officials say
LOS ANGELES (TIP): Famed Mexican boxer Julio César Chávez Jr. has been arrested for overstaying his visa and lying on a green card application and will be deported to Mexico, where he faces organized crime charges, U.S. federal officials said Thursday.
The arrest came only days after the former middleweight champion lost a match against influencer-turned-boxer Jake Paul in Anaheim, California.
The Department of Homeland Security said officials determined Chávez should be arrested on June 27, a day before the fight. It was unclear why they waited to act for days after the high-profile event.
The boxer was riding a scooter when agents detained him
The 39-year-old boxer, according to his attorney Michael Goldstein, was picked up Wednesday by a large number of federal agents while he was riding a scooter in front of a home where he resides in the upscale Los Angeles neighborhood of Studio City near Hollywood.
“The current allegations are outrageous and simply another headline to terrorize the community,” Goldstein said.
Many people across Southern California are on edge as immigration arrests have ramped up, prompting protests and the federal deployment of National Guard troops and U.S. Marines to downtown Los Angeles.
Goldstein did not know where Chávez was being detained as of Thursday morning, but said he and his client were due in court Monday in connection with prior gun possession charges.
Chávez’s family issued a statement Thursday afternoon in support of him, the Los Angeles Times reported.
“We have full confidence in his innocence,” the statement said. “We firmly believe that the proper course is to allow the competent authorities to carry out their work without external pressure or speculation.”
Before his recent bout, Chavez fought once since 2021
Before his bout with Paul on Saturday, Chávez had fought just once since 2021, having fallen to innumerable lows during a lengthy boxing career conducted in the shadow of his father, Julio César Chávez, one of the most beloved athletes in Mexican history and a member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame who won championships in several weight classes. The son, who has battled drug addiction for much of his career, has been arrested repeatedly. In 2012, he was convicted of drunk driving in Los Angeles and sentenced to 13 days in jail and in January 2024 he was arrested on gun charges. (AP) -
Asia Cup: Pak teams allowed to visit India
There will be no bar on Pakistan sports teams travelling to India for international events despite the low in bilateral ties following the Pahalgam terror attack and India responding with Operation Sindoor, sports ministry officials said on Thursday, July 3.
That decision included an agreement that Pakistan teams will be allowed to play ICC tournaments hosted by India at a neutral venue. Cross-border political tension saw the Rohit Sharma-led side play the Champions Trophy, hosted by Pakistan, in the UAE and emerge winners.
While the union sports ministry is willing to let BCCI address the neutral venue issue – Pakistan will play their games in the ICC Women’s World Cup being staged by India in late September in Colombo – hockey will be different. The Asia Cup hockey is scheduled to be held in Rajgir, Bihar from August 29 to September 7 and Pakistan will be free to travel for it, the ministry sources said.
India also host the junior hockey World Cup in Chennai and Madurai in November where India and Pakistan are in the same group. “For international sports no one is barred from going,” the sources said. The government also is conscious of its build-up to bidding for the 2036 Olympics and would not like any step to hurt its image as a welcoming country. “It won’t be nice in the international sports world (if there are any such restrictions),” the officials said.
Senior officials of the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) and Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) however said they are yet to receive clearance from the government to take part in two major hockey events in India this year.
The cabinet approved the new sports policy this week which the union sports ministry is confident will usher in a “360 degrees reform” in Indian sports. The sports ministry has prepared a roadmap for the implementation of the wide-ranging aspects addressed by the policy document and a monitoring group comprising the sports, education and culture ministries will be set up for development of sports at the grassroots. While the government acknowledges the role states have in education, and sports in these institutions, the ministry sources also said: “Sports is a state subject but international sports is a central subject.”
A Khelo India Water Sports Festival will be held in Srinagar’s Dal Lake from August 21-23. -
BMW Group India records highest-ever H1 car deliveries, on fast-track with 10% growth
Propelling its robust performance in the current year, BMW Group India has posted its highest-ever car deliveries in H1 2025. The company sold 7,774 BMW and MINI cars and 2,569 motorcycles between January to June 2025. BMW sold 7,477 units and MINI 297 units.
In the second quarter (April – June), each month recorded best-ever sales.
Vikram Pawah, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “Carrying forward the impressive performance of Q1 into H1, BMW Group India is steering the success story for this year with tremendous fervour. We are on a fast track, posting +10% growth despite a challenging environment as we continue to unfold new opportunities in luxury segment. Changing the game with our thrust on electric mobility, we are the most preferred Indian luxury EV brand with phenomenal +234% growth. Among SAVs as well as sedans, our long wheelbase luxury models are in great demand due to their seamless blend of comfort and performance. Coupled with the ongoing RetailNext transformation and Relax.We Care customer support initiatives, we are redefining our customers’ journey with joy and complete peace of mind.”
For last three years, BMW Group India is the leader in luxury EV sales in India. In H1 2025, this lead continues with 1,322 BMW and MINI EVs sold. The company achieved enormous +234% growth in EV sales in the first half of the year. The BMW iX1 Long Wheelbase was the highest-selling electric car during this period, followed by the flagship BMW i7 in second spot. Electric cars now hold 18% share in total sales of BMW Group India.
At the start of the year, BMW Group India announced many new initiatives for its EV customers including services like BMW Destination Charging, Smart E-Routing and Charging Concierge. Combined with complimentary Wallbox chargers and 24×7 open access to the company’s fast-charging dealership network across the country, customers are able to embrace progressive e-mobility with complete peace of mind. BMW Group India currently offers six electric cars and two scooters – BMW i7, BMW iX, BMW i5, BMW i4, BMW iX1 Long Wheelbase, MINI Countryman E, BMW CE 04 and BMW CE 02. Stunning performance and driving dynamics are hallmark of the entire EV portfolio and each model stands for next level digitalisation and sustainability. Source: ANI -
Meta adds DM chatting feature to Instagram spinoff Threads on popular demand
Meta is finally rolling out the direct messaging feature for its Instagram spinoff app, Threads. The feature has been one of the most requested by users ever since its launch in 2023. The company has announced that, starting from the first week of July, users around the world will be able to privately message others directly within the Threads app. The feature will finally eliminate the consistent hassle for users of having to switch over to Instagram for private conversations.
For now, Threads will offer only basic DM functionality. Users will be able to initiate one-on-one chats, react using preset emojis, mute conversations, and report spam. In the future, Meta is likely to roll out additional features such as group chats, message filters, and expanded messaging controls, similar to Instagram.
Notably, at present, the feature is limited to users aged 18 and over, and will not be available in Japan, Australia, the UK, or the EU. Threads will only allow messaging between followers or mutual Instagram connections at this stage.
While the feature is certainly much anticipated, it is also raising privacy concerns. Messages on Threads will not be end-to-end encrypted. Unlike WhatsApp or competitors such as X (formerly Twitter), which offer encrypted messaging, Threads DMs are not end-to-end encrypted. A Threads spokesperson, Alec Booker, confirmed to The Verge that “Threads will not support end-to-end encryption for messaging.” However, he emphasised that Threads will “continue evolving DMs on Threads based on feedback from the community.”
Once the feature appears on Threads, users can start a DM by tapping the envelope icon at the bottom of the app. From there, one can compose a new message using the pencil icon in the top-right corner.
Alongside DMs, Threads is also getting a new visual feature called Highlighter. This feature will showcase “unique perspectives that lead to thoughtful conversations” and trending topics within the For You feed. The company says this addition will help users initiate meaningful discussions by highlighting posts that spark engagement and community interest.
Additionally, Meta is testing increased account flexibility. In Europe, users can log in using Facebook or create Threads-only accounts. The company is also exploring options to browse Threads on the web without logging in, aiming to further differentiate the app from its Instagram roots. -
iPhone 17 Pro Max may get the biggest battery jump so far, new leak suggests
In what could be a welcome shift for iPhone fans tired of living near a charger, Apple appears to be gearing up for a meaningful battery boost with next year’s flagship. According to a new leak, the iPhone 17 Pro Max may finally surpass the 5,000mAh barrier — a milestone that would mark a significant leap forward for Apple’s battery technology.
According to the tipster, Instant Digital on Weibo shared that the iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to get the biggest battery jump. While we’ve seen modest improvements in battery life over the years, this jump, if accurate, would represent one of the most dramatic increases yet in the Pro Max line. To put things in perspective, the current iPhone 16 Pro Max carries a 4,676mAh cell, while its predecessor, the iPhone 15 Pro Max, comes in at 4,422mAh. Reaching 5,000mAh would be the largest battery ever packed into an iPhone.
This isn’t just a numerical upgrade either. For everyday users, that extra capacity could spell real-world freedom: fewer low-battery warnings, more time for snapping photos, endless social media scrolling, longer Netflix binges, and extended gaming sessions, all without desperately searching for a charging cable before bedtime.
Of course, raw battery size isn’t the only metric that matters. Apple has always leaned heavily on its A-series chips and iOS optimisations to squeeze out maximum efficiency. The combination of a beefier battery and Apple’s expected next-gen chip, likely the A19 Bionic, could offer a sweet spot of power and endurance.
It’s also worth noting that larger batteries often go hand-in-hand with larger devices. The Pro Max, already known for its expansive display, is the natural candidate for such an upgrade. That extra chassis space allows Apple’s engineers a bit more wiggle room to fit in a chunkier cell — something standard and even Pro models often miss out on. -
Microsoft claims its AI tool can diagnose complex cases better than doctors
Microsoft claims that it has developed an AI tool that, in a recent experiment, diagnosed patients with four times more accuracy than human doctors.
The technology, called MAI Diagnostic Orchestrator (MAI-DxO), works by combining multiple advanced AI models, including ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini, Anthropic’s Claude, Meta’s Llama, and xAI’s Grok. The system mimics a team of doctors working together, sharing opinions and debating symptoms before reaching a diagnosis.
To test the system, researchers used 304 real-life case studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine. These were turned into a series of patient scenarios, where the AI had to figure out the illness just as a doctor would by analysing symptoms, ordering tests, and narrowing down possibilities step-by-step.
The results were surprising: the AI system correctly diagnosed 80% of the cases, compared to just 20% by a group of human doctors. And it wasn’t just about accuracy. The AI also managed to lower the cost of diagnosis by about 20%, by choosing more affordable tests and avoiding unnecessary procedures.
“This is a genuine step toward medical superintelligence,” said Mustafa Suleyman, CEO of Microsoft AI, highlighting the tool’s potential to transform healthcare decision-making.
According to the company, as demand for healthcare continues to grow, costs are rising at an unsustainable pace, and billions of people face multiple barriers to better health, including inaccurate and delayed diagnoses.
While AI has already been used to help doctors interpret medical scans, this latest development suggests it could take on broader diagnostic roles, possibly becoming a first point of contact for patients in the future.
Experts involved in the project say this could help reduce healthcare costs and speed up access to care. “Our model performs incredibly well—both getting to the diagnosis and doing so cost-effectively,” said Dominic King, a Microsoft vice president.
However, like all AI systems, these tools must be carefully monitored. There are concerns about whether they work equally well across different populations, since much of the training data may be skewed toward certain groups.
“This research is just the first step on a long, exciting journey. We’re excited to keep testing and learning with our healthcare partners in pursuit of better, more accessible care for people everywhere,” Suleyman said. -
Why vitamin C can increase iron absorption from plant foods
Did you know that a squeeze of lemon in your greens or dal isn’t just for taste? It actually supports your iron levels. Even a small amount of Vitamin C — like 100 mg taken with a meal — can increase the absorption of iron from plant foods by more than 60 per cent.
Pairing nutrients for better absorption isn’t just theory — it’s something we consistently see backed by research. How well the body takes in vitamins and minerals can improve noticeably when certain combinations are used.
This holds true for turmeric as well. Curcumin, its active ingredient, isn’t easily absorbed on its own. But when paired with black pepper — because of the piperine it contains — absorption improves sharply. Some studies show this can raise its bioavailability by up to 2,000 per cent. So what’s often thought of as a traditional kitchen habit is, in fact, a powerful example of how the right pairing can make all the difference in how our body uses what we eat.
HOW NUTRIENTS BACK EACH OTHER UP
Vitamin D and calcium are another well-known pair. Without adequate vitamin D, the body can only absorb a fraction of the dietary calcium. Meanwhile magnesium plays a crucial role in converting vitamin D into its active form — without it, even supplements may be less effective. Additionally, fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E and K need dietary fat for proper absorption; hence, they should be taken with meals that include healthy fats such as ghee, nuts and fish.
AVOIDING CONFLICTS
These principles aren’t difficult to apply — they can be woven into everyday eating with a little mindfulness. If supplements have been medically advised, understanding when and how to take them is just as important. Fat-soluble vitamins work best with meals that include healthy fats, while iron is often paired with vitamin C but should be kept separate from calcium. Magnesium and calcium should ideally be spaced out to avoid absorption conflicts.
These small adjustments — timing, pairing, and food context — can significantly improve how well the body utilises each nutrient. Following your doctor’s instructions and not self-medicating is key to getting the intended benefit.
NO SUPPLEMENTS WITHOUT MAKING ADVICE
That said, it’s important not to start adding supplements on your own without medical advice. They’re meant to address specific needs — not to follow trends or assumptions.
Taking unnecessary doses can upset your body’s nutrient balance and sometimes lead to side effects. In most cases, your body responds better to nutrients from real, well-paired foods than from isolated capsules. For generally healthy individuals, combining lentils with vitamin C or having fat alongside fat-soluble vitamins is a simple, effective way to support absorption. -
Curd can help you lose weight, here’s how
We all know that our diet plays a major role in the weight loss process. Swapping oily, unhealthy food with healthy and protein-rich food can help you a lot in losing unwanted kilos. One such protein-rich food is curd which is known for its numerous health benefits. It is packed with a variety of nutrients like calcium, vitamin B-2, vitamin B-12, potassium, and magnesium which are beneficial for our health. Moreover, it helps in lowering high blood pressure and promoting a healthy heart. Yogurt contains several enzymes that can fight disease-causing germs and keep us safe from various ailments. Apart from this, researchers also claim that curd facilitates weight loss. But is it really true? Scroll on to find out.
According to a study published in the International Journal of Obesity, adults who consumed three servings of fat-free yogurt per day lost 22% more weight and 61% more body fat than those who simply cut down their calorie intake and didn’t bone up on calcium. Moreover, it is packed with several vitamins and nutrients, which keeps you full and satisfied for a longer period of time and prevents you from bingeing on junk food.
If you are trying to lose weight, you need to eat a good amount of protein, which is present in curd. According to USDA data, curd contains 8.5 grams of protein in a cup of whole milk yogurt, 13g per cup of low-fat yogurt, and 10g of protein in a cup of non-fat yogurt. Protein helps you keep full for longer hours, thus preventing you from overeating and gaining weight.
Improves digestion
Curd has a good concentration of pro-biotic elements that are beneficial for our digestive system. According to a research review published in Nutrition and Metabolism in February 2016, it was found that intestinal microflora plays a major role in boosting metabolism and regulating body weight. -
Natural ways to increase glutathione levels
Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant found in every cell of the body. It plays a crucial role in protecting cells from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. It comprises three amino acids: glutamine, glycine, and cysteine.Glutathione is primarily used for skin lightening. It helps reduce melanin levels and improves skin texture. Glutathione levels typically decline with age and due to factors like poor nutrition, environmental toxins, and stress.
How does it work?
Glutathione lowers melanin levels by suppressing the tyrosinase enzyme, which results in brighter and more even-coloured skin. As a potent antioxidant, glutathione also helps combat oxidative stress and slows down skin ageing. Beyond its skin benefits, glutathione is important for immune function. Not many know that glutathione levels can be boosted naturally. It can be achieved through various lifestyle choices and dietary adjustments. Here we have some effective methods.
Ways to boost glutathione levels naturally
There are a few dietary sources of glutathione which can effectively help lower oxidative stress. Some notable options include: Avocados, Spinach, Okra, Tomatoes, Asparagus
Consume sulfur-rich foods
Sulfur is an important mineral which is required for synthesis of glutathione. Incorporate garlic, onions, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and kale into your diet.
Increase your vitamin C intake
Glutathione is usually combined with vitamin C to enhance its effectiveness. It plays a vital role in maintaining glutathione levels. Vitamin C further boosts collagen production, improving skin tone and texture. Citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, and bell peppers are excellent sources of vitamin C.
Consume selenium-rich foods
Selenium has been shown to support glutathione production. Include nuts (especially Brazil nuts), fish, and eggs in your diet.
Prioritize sleep
Studies show that chronic lack of sleep may decrease glutathione levels. Ensure good quality sleep to regenerate and recover, which helps in maintaining healthy glutathione levels.
Exercise regularly
According to research, engaging in regular physical activity is a natural way to stimulate the body’s antioxidant defences, including increasing glutathione levels. However, it is also crucial to eat a nutritious diet along with training to promote glutathione levels. -
Best position to sleep when you are pregnant
Between midnight bathroom runs, a racing mind, cramping legs, heartburn and a hopped-up metabolism that’s turning up your internal thermostat — plus a growing baby bump that makes getting comfortable increasingly difficult — sleep can be challenging during pregnancy. Consider it preparation for the sleepless nights that lie ahead.
That said, getting enough sleep is more important than ever now that you’re snoozing for two. Here’s what you need to know about sleep during pregnancy, from the best positions to solutions for common problems and tips for getting a better night’s rest.
Why is sleep so important during pregnancy?
Sleep is the time when your body resets and repairs itself. It’s when your brain makes memories, making it an ally in your battle against baby brain. It’s how your blood vessels restore themselves, which is especially important now that they’re under increased pressure from the extra blood flow required to support your baby.
Sleep also keeps your immune system — which is suppressed to support your pregnancy — healthy. And sleep controls how your body reacts to insulin; not getting enough results in a higher blood sugar level, upping your risk of gestational diabetes.
So even if life is getting in the way, make it a priority to set aside at least seven hours a night for sleep.
Best sleeping positions when you’re pregnant
The best sleep position when you’re expecting is on your left side — though your right is also perfectly acceptable. This position is ideal for your circulation, optimizing the oxygen and nutrients that get to your baby, as well as kidney function, reducing swelling. Past your first trimester, it becomes impossible to lie on your stomach for obvious reasons.
You should also avoid lying flat on your back all night long. The weight of your growing uterus presses on your vena cava, the artery running blood from your lower body back to your heart, disturbing circulation and possibly making you dizzy. Your womb also weighs on your intestines and back, making common pregnancy symptoms like backaches and hemorrhoids worse.
Common pregnancy sleep problems & solutions
All of the following pregnancy sleep problems can make getting a solid night of shut-eye harder. A few tips to help you sleep better:
You don’t like sleeping on your side. Place pillows between your legs and behind your back; full-body and wedge pillows, in particular, are a pregnant woman’s best friend. Otherwise try sleeping in a recliner or other comfy armchair, if you have one, in a semi-upright position.
You’re restless. Work out during the day, and you’ll likely feel sleepier at night — though try to avoid exercising within a couple of hours of bedtime, since that can ramp you up.
You’ve got a busy mind. If stress at work or about your impending new arrival is keeping you up at night, talk to a friend, parent or your partner earlier in the evening to get your worries off your mind before your head hits the pillow. -
Kadai chicken
INGREDIENTS
1 kg chicken, washed, cleaned and cut into big pieces
4 tablespoons oil
1/2 cup onion, sliced
1 1/2 cups tomatoes, peeled and sliced
2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves, chopped,
1 tablespoon ginger paste
1 tablespoon garlic paste
4 teaspoons garam masala powder
2 bay leaves
4 whole red chilies
2 teaspoons coriander seeds
1 teaspoon red chili, powder, salt
Method
– Grind corriander seeds and whole red chillies into a coarse powder.
– Heat oil in a kadai.
– Add bay leaves.
– After about 30 seconds, add onions and saute till they turn light golden brown.
– Add ginger-garlic paste.
– Saute for 2 minutes on medium flame.
– Add the above coarse powder.
– Stir well.
– Add tomatoes and cook till they are fully cooked.
– Add chicken pieces, salt to taste and red chilli powder.
– Mix well.
– Cover the kadai.
– Cook till the chicken becomes tender.
– Sprinkle garam masala powder over the chicken.
– Garnish with corriander leaves and onion rings.
– Serve hot with rotis or parathas. -
Home remedies to get rid of blemishes
There are some home remedies for treating blemishes naturally that can fight them off without any side effects. The home remedies offer a more painless and cheaper alternative to the clinical ones along with having long-term benefits. The best part is that they cost nothing except few household items laying around and some time.
Tomato juice
Apply on blemishes and massage. Leave it for 15 minutes. Use this remedy daily for removing skin blemishes naturally.
Lemon juice
Apply fresh lemon juice for 20 minutes on the blemishes for a month or two for lightening up the blemishes.
Cocoa butter
Massage blemishes with cocoa butter and leaves it overnight. Cocoa butter has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidants which help in fighting blemishes.
Baking soda
Mix few drops of olive oil or water to baking soda and make a paste. Apply the paste on the blemishes and leave for 10 minutes. Scrub off the paste and wash with clean water.
Egg white
Apply egg white on a clean face and wash it after 10 minutes. Apply a moisturizer. This would lighten your skin and blemishes.
Tips to Prevent Blemishes
– Preventing the blemishes from occurring on your skin is always a better option than trying to fight with it. Here are some tips to prevent blemishes
– It is vital to keep your face cleaned daily with occasional exfoliation to remove impurities, dirt, oil and dead skin cells that lead to blemishes.
– Use a noncomedogenic moisturizer on your skin for hydration.
– Avoid using excessive makeup on a breakout skin. Wash off the makeup after the day and sleep with a clean hydrated face.
– Certain hair oils can clog your face. It is a good idea to keep your hair away from your face. -
Bhagalpur’s Celebrated Maldah Mangoes Reach New York in First-Ever Direct Shipment
Collaborative effort led by Upajguru, Government of Bihar, APEDA, and Bihar Foundation brings India’s prized mango variety to the U.S.
NEW YORK (TIP): In a landmark moment for Indian agriculture and diaspora pride, the very first direct shipment of Maldah (popularly known as Langra) mangoes from Bhagalpur, Bihar has successfully arrived in New York City, USA. This historic initiative was made possible through the collaboration of Upajguru, an agri-supply chain innovator, the Government of Bihar, APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority), and the Bihar Foundation USA East Coast Chapter.
“It’s a dream come true,” said Mr. Ravi Soni, Founder of Upajguru. “Transporting a perishable fruit like Maldah mango across continents is no small feat. But with belief, technology, and community support, we made it happen. This isn’t just about mangoes—it’s about building bridges between farmers and global consumers.”
Upajguru tending the mango trees. A Powerful Collaboration
A basket of Bhagalpur’s celebrated Maldah Mangoes The successful arrival of these mangoes was the result of tireless coordination across institutions and borders:
- Shri Nitish Kumar, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Bihar, and Shri Nitish Mishra, Hon’ble Industries Minister, for their forward-thinking support.
- Shri Kundan Kumar, CEO of Bihar Foundation, for seamless coordination between Bihar and the diaspora.
- APEDA, for ensuring compliance, certifications, and critical logistics that enabled international export.
- Mr. Nimesh Rai, the dedicated farmer from Bharatam Vatika, whose orchard in Bhagalpur produced the mangoes with care and organic practices.
- The U.S.-based support team of Abhishek Kumar, Lata Shree, and Bishwanath Sharma, who oversaw final delivery and local outreach.
- Alok Kumar, Chairman of Bihar Foundation USA East Coast, whose vision and community mobilization were instrumental in bringing the project to life.
“This shipment was more than fruit crossing borders—it was emotion, culture, and identity wrapped in every box,” said Alok Kumar. “After years of trying to get Bihar’s mangoes to the U.S., it finally happened thanks to the determination and dedication of Upajguru and every hand that helped.”
Community Support Was the Key
This effort succeeded because the Indian-American community—especially Biharis—stood behind it. Hundreds pre-ordered mangoes, supported logistics, and promoted the initiative across states. Even with increased transportation costs and the risks of spoilage, the community’s trust and enthusiasm helped make this trial a success.
What’s Next
While this was a pilot run, its success has paved the way for future scale. Plans are underway to increase volume and improve the cold-chain infrastructure for the 2026 season.
A Salute to the Farmers
Above all, deep gratitude goes to the farmers of Bihar—especially Mr. Nimesh Rai of Bharatam Vatika—whose devotion to the land and to their mango trees made this export possible. Their quiet dedication is now being tasted and celebrated halfway across the world.
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CRYket 2025 – Cricket for a Cause
Individuals to play their part, giving Child Rights a sporting start
NEW YORK (TIP): The spirit of the CRYket, CRY – Child Rights and You America’s annual cricket tournament, is about creating awareness for the cause of child rights. This year, CRYket will unite more than 10 teams on the pitch at Johnson Park, Piscataway, NJ to help eliminate issues of child labor, malnutrition and discrimination against the girl child. The CRY New Jersey CRYket event is being held on July 19th in Piscataway and promises to be a cricket event with a difference. Going far beyond conventional charitable events, it will bring together cricket lovers, pitching their skills and testing their abilities on the cricket pitch for the cause of CRY America and underprivileged children.
Shefali Sunderlal, President of CRY America, said, “CRY America believes in collective action where people pledge their strengths and work in partnership for a common cause. We work to involve the community through innovative platforms like CRYket to ensure that underprivileged children have a better childhood.”
Arshia and Haresh Lala, the father and daughter duo who have been organizing this successful event for the past few years, believe that “Every champion was once a beginner who refused to give up. Today, we play not just for victory, but for the dreams of every child who deserves a brighter tomorrow.”
The proceeds raised through CRYket will go towards removing obstacles that lead to deprivation, thus ensuring children have their basic rights to live, learn, grow and play.
About CRY America:
CRY, Child Rights and You America Inc (CRY America) is a 501c3 non-profit driven by its vision of a just world in which all children have equal opportunities to develop to their full potential and realize their dreams. With the support of over 35,334 donors and 2,000 volunteers, CRY America has impacted the lives of 825,539 children living across 5,064 villages and slums through support to 111 Projects in India and the USA.
For more information: contact Renuka Ramachandran at 617-981-2826; visit http://cryamerica.org or write to renuka.ramachandran@cryamerica.org