Articles by Lekshmy Pavithran

Technology

Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana emotional as India Clinch Maiden Women’s World Cup

Harmanpreet Kaur-led India scripted history, winning their first-ever Women’s World Cup after a 52-run victory over South Africa in a rain-delayed final at Mumbai’s DY Patil Stadium. Batting first, India posted a challenging 298/7, with opener Shafali Verma top-scoring with 87 and Deepti Sharma contributing a crucial 58..Historic win: India beat South Africa to win first Women's World Cup title. Sharma’s match-winning spinChasing 299, South Africa were bowled out for 246 in 45.3 overs. Deepti Sharma starred with the ball, taking five wickets, including the key dismissals of Laura Wolvaardt (101) and Nadine de Klerk (18) to seal the win. Harmanpreet Kaur’s captaincy moves, including bringing in part-time off-spinner Shafali Verma, proved decisive as Verma struck twice in quick succession to tighten India’s grip.Emotional celebrationsThe final wicket saw an emotional moment as captain Kaur embraced deputy Smriti Mandhana, celebrating the historic victory with teammates and a packed home crowd of 45,000. Fans inside the stadium and millions across India rejoiced as the Women in Blue achieved glory after finishing runners-up in 2005 and 2017..Women's World Cup 2025 final: India Women beat South Africa Women by 52 runs – match highlights in photos. Standout performancesVerma and Mandhana shared a 104-run opening stand to set the foundation, while Sharma’s all-round performance with bat and ball added crucial momentum. Despite South Africa’s spirited effort, led by Wolvaardt, India maintained control, with Kaur and Verma’s tactical decisions shifting the momentum decisively.A milestone for Indian women’s cricketThis landmark win cements India’s place in cricket history and marks the culmination of years of effort and determination by the Women in Blue, inspiring future generations of cricketers nationwide..Star-studded support as India battle South Africa in thrilling Women's World Cup final.India beat Australia to enter Women’s World Cup final.Women's cricket set for new champion as India, South Africa clash.Tendulkar, Ganguly, Rohit hail India’s record chase as women storm into World Cup final

1 days ago

Technology

Historic win: India beat South Africa to win first Women's World Cup title

India made history by winning the Women’s Cricket World Cup for the first time, defeating South Africa by 52 runs in a thrilling final at the DY Patil Stadium on Sunday. The victory marked India’s third appearance in a World Cup final after 2005 and 2017, while the Proteas played their first-ever final..Women's World Cup 2025 final: India Women beat South Africa Women by 52 runs – match highlights in photos.Opener Shafali Verma scored a career-best 87 off 78 balls, anchoring India’s innings as the hosts posted 298/7 in 50 overs. Her 100-run opening partnership with Smriti Mandhana (45) set a solid foundation. Middle-order contributions from Deepti Sharma (58) and a quickfire 34 from Richa Ghosh helped India reach a competitive total, the second-highest in a Women’s ODI World Cup final.Shafali also made a decisive impact with the ball, striking twice in quick succession to dismiss Sune Luus and Marizanne Kapp, swinging momentum firmly in India’s favour.. Deepti Sharma leads India’s bowling attackSouth Africa’s chase of 299 faltered as they were bowled out for 246 in 45.3 overs. Deepti Sharma produced a match-winning spell of 5/39, while Shafali Verma chipped in with 2 crucial wickets. Early breakthroughs from Sree Charani (LBW Anneke Bosch) and Amanjot Kaur’s sharp run-out of Tazmin Brits kept the pressure on the Proteas.. South Africa fight back but fall shortSouth Africa skipper Laura Wolvaardt top-scored with a classy 101 off 98 balls, supported by a fifty-run opening stand with Tazmin Brits. However, the dismissal of Wolvaardt and Chloe Tryon in the 42nd over sealed South Africa’s fate. Nadine de Klerk’s late resistance could not prevent a historic win for India.Key moments of the finalIndia posted 298/7 in 50 overs (Shafali Verma 87, Deepti Sharma 58, Richa Ghosh 34; Ayabonga Khaka 3-58)South Africa all out for 246 in 45.3 overs (Laura Wolvaardt 101, Annerie Dercksen 35; Deepti Sharma 5-39, Shafali Verma 2-36)India won by 52 runs, claiming their first Women’s World CupHistoric celebrationPrime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in celebrating India’s maiden ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup title.Posting on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote: “A spectacular win by the Indian team in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 Finals. Their performance in the final was marked by great skill and confidence. The team showed exceptional teamwork and tenacity throughout the tournament. Congratulations to our players. This historic win will motivate future champions to take up sports.”. The historic triumph, India’s first-ever Women’s World Cup crown, was powered by a stellar team effort that brought the nation its long-awaited global glory.The win was celebrated by a passionate home crowd at DY Patil Stadium, as India’s women cricketers etched their names in history with a landmark triumph on home soil..With inputs from Agencies .Star-studded support as India battle South Africa in thrilling Women's World Cup final.India beat Australia to enter Women’s World Cup final.Women's cricket set for new champion as India, South Africa clash.Tendulkar, Ganguly, Rohit hail India’s record chase as women storm into World Cup final

1 days ago

Technology

Women's World Cup 2025 final: India Women beat South Africa Women by 52 runs – match highlights in photos

India claimed their first-ever Women’s Cricket World Cup title with a 52-run win over South Africa on Sunday at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.Hosts set a strong totalOpener Shafali Verma starred with a career-best 87 off 78 balls, helping India reach 298/7 in 50 overs after losing the toss and being sent in to bat.In reply, South Africa managed 246 in 45.3 overs, with skipper Laura Wolvaardt top-scoring with 101 off 98 balls. India’s spinner Deepti Sharma took five crucial wickets to secure the win.Historic achievementThe victory marked India’s maiden ICC Women’s World Cup triumph, their third final appearance after 2005 and 2017, celebrated by a sell-out home crowd..Star-studded support as India battle South Africa in thrilling Women's World Cup final

1 days ago

Technology

Star-studded support as India battle South Africa in thrilling Women's World Cup final

Mumbai: Cricket icons Sachin Tendulkar and Rohit Sharma, along with ICC Chairman Jay Shah, were among the notable personalities present at DY Patil Stadium on Sunday as India faced South Africa in the Women's World Cup final in Navi Mumbai.Thousands of fans filled the stadium, undeterred by early afternoon rain, to cheer the Indian women's team in their third-ever World Cup final appearance. Cricket stars and celebrities joined in to support the team..Tendulkar, Ganguly, Rohit hail India’s record chase as women storm into World Cup final.India beat Australia to enter Women’s World Cup final. Tendulkar, Gavaskar, Laxman among celebrity spectatorsBroadcasters showed Sachin Tendulkar intently watching the match, alongside legends Sunil Gavaskar, VVS Laxman, and former India batter Brijesh Patel.Rohit Sharma chats with ICC chief, Nita AmbaniRohit Sharma attended with his wife Ritika and spent some time chatting with ICC Chairman Jay Shah and Nita Ambani, owner of the Mumbai Indians, whom he led to five IPL titles. Tendulkar was also photographed with Ambani, highlighting the gathering of cricketing legends and prominent sports figures..Women's cricket set for new champion as India, South Africa clash.Indian men’s team cheers Women in Blue.After sealing victory in their third T20I against Australia in Hobart on Sunday, members of the senior Indian men’s cricket team turned their attention to the Women’s World Cup final, rooting for the home side from afar.The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a picture showing head coach Gautam Gambhir, fielding coach T Dilip, and players including Rinku Singh and Jasprit Bumrah watching the India vs South Africa final. Captioning the photo, the BCCI wrote: “Backing the #WomenInBlue.” . Fireworks, anthem, and entertainmentBollywood playback singer Sunidhi Chauhan performed the national anthem before the game and entertained fans during the mid-innings break. The stadium lit up with a spectacular display of fireworks and lighting, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.Originally scheduled for 3 pm, the match was delayed by two hours due to rain and a wet outfield, starting after 5 pm without any reduction in overs. India posted a competitive total of 298/7 in their 50 overs..Mandhana, Rawal tons make India clinch last semi-final spot.Fireworks light up Dubai stadium as India beat Pakistan in Asia Cup final

1 days ago

Technology

Brain-eating amoeba scare in Kerala: First amoebic meningoencephalitis case reported in Kochi

A 25-year-old woman from Lakshadweep has tested positive for amoebic meningoencephalitis in Kochi, Kerala, marking the district’s first confirmed case. She is currently receiving treatment at a private hospital, with health officials reporting that her condition remains stable.According to media reports, the woman, who resides in a hostel in Kochi, initially experienced fever and headache. Her first two tests were negative for amoebic encephalitis. A third test using wet-mount microscopic examination returned positive. A health official told Manorama News that the woman is “totally stable and recovering well.” The official added that she had visited a resort, but the timeline still needs to be verified to determine the incubation period..Kerala on alert as ‘brain-eating amoeba’ kills 19: Why cases are rising and how to stay safe. Statewide numbers and recent fatalitiesKerala has recorded 153 cases and 33 deaths from amoebic meningoencephalitis this year. The latest death involved a 65-year-old woman from Palathara in Kollam. In October alone, 12 fatalities were reported. Two new cases were confirmed on Friday, and investigations continue to track the disease’s spread.Ongoing researchThe Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is conducting a study across Kozhikode, Malappuram, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kollam. In October, Kerala confirmed 65 cases. Investigations have linked some infections to washing wounds in pond water, with several Acanthamoeba species isolated from infected patients’ brains, lungs, skin, and corneas..Brain-eating amoeba scare: Kerala on high alert as 17 die; facts, new advisories. Concurrent health alertsAuthorities have also reported H1N1 influenza cases in Kochi, including a CUSAT engineering student from Kalamassery. Contacts are under observation, and officials have assured the public that there is no reason for alarm.What is Amoebic Meningoencephalitis?Amoebic meningoencephalitis is a rare but severe brain infection caused by free-living amoebae such as Naegleria fowleri, Acanthamoeba, Sappinia, and Balamuthia mandrillaris. The infection occurs when the amoeba enters the brain via the nose or a perforated eardrum.Mortality rate: Over 97% globallyTransmission: Not person-to-personSource: Stagnant or contaminated freshwater, pond sedimentIncubation: 1–9 daysSymptoms to Watch ForEarly (1–12 days after exposure):Severe headache, high fever, nausea, vomiting, stiff neckAdvanced:Confusion, seizures, hallucinations, loss of balance, comaChildren: Loss of appetite, lethargy, unusual behaviourFatality: Often occurs within 5–7 days if untreatedDiagnosis and treatmentConfirmed via PCR testing of spinal fluidTreatment: Combination of five anti-amoebic drugsKerala’s survival rate is currently 24%, higher than the global 3%, due to early detection and aggressive therapy including drugs like miltefosineHow infection occursEntry: Nose during swimming, bathing, or diving in contaminated freshwaterSources: Untreated wells, ponds, rivers, poorly chlorinated poolsNot found: SeawaterExperts warn global warming and increased freshwater use are raising exposure risks.Kerala’s response“Water is Life” chlorination drives in wells, tanks, and public bathing areasFever surveys and environmental water samplingHospitals placed on high alertPublic awareness campaigns warning against swimming in untreated freshwaterPrecautionary measuresAvoid swimming or bathing in untreated freshwaterChlorinate household wells and swimming poolsUse boiled or filtered water for nasal cleansingWear nose clips in freshwaterSeek immediate medical care if fever or neurological symptoms appear after water exposureKerala is confronting a rare but deadly outbreak of brain-eating amoeba infections. While the disease is almost always fatal worldwide, early detection, safe water practices, and rapid treatment remain the state’s most effective defence..How Pakistan’s study shed light on Kerala’s rare brain-eating amoeba case in infant.Kerala on alert as ‘brain-eating amoeba’ kills 19: Why cases are rising and how to stay safe.UAE: Young Indian left unable to walk after meningitis, repatriated ahead of World Meningitis Day.Alert in Kerala’s Malappuram after 3 of a migrant worker family test positive for malaria

1 days ago

Technology

Sharjah International Publishers Conference opens with global focus

Sharjah: Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), officially opened the 15th Sharjah International Publishers Conference at Expo Centre Sharjah. The three-day event, running from November 2–4, features 1,258 publishers from 116 countries and precedes the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair.In her opening remarks, Sheikha Bodour said: "Every year, the Sharjah Publishers Conference shows that the story of global publishing has many authors. As our industry evolves with technology, we must stay united in our purpose: to make stories more accessible, diverse, and human.".Between you and a book: Sharjah gears up for 44th International Book Fair. The opening ceremony was attended by Ahmed Al Ameri, CEO of SBA; Gvantsa Jobava, President of the International Publishers Association (IPA); Madeline McIntosh, Co-founder and CEO of Authors Equity and former CEO of Penguin Random House US; and Phaedon Kidoniatis, Vice-President of the Federation of European Publishers, alongside senior international publishing leaders.Industry of ideas and impactGvantsa Jobava, President of IPA, welcomed attendees, saying: "What a time it is to be a publisher. Our industry of ideas and impact has never been more empowered. From audiobooks to text-to-speech technologies, stories now travel further, reaching every corner of the world."She praised Sharjah for championing a reading culture and fostering international collaboration in publishing..How Sharjah bridges Arab East and West at Morocco book fair. Authors remain central to publishing successThe first session of the day featured Madeline McIntosh in conversation with Jo Henry, former Managing Director of BookBrunch. McIntosh highlighted that in today’s market of fragmented attention spans, the author is more important than ever, both for the story and for creating authentic connections with readers.She emphasised the growing role of small and independent publishers, noting that Authors Equity’s profit-share model gives authors the majority of profits while outsourcing editorial tasks efficiently. On technology, she said tools like AI support strategy but cannot replace the human element, as readers value authenticity..Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi appointed UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for education and book culture. Global cultural exchange at the heartPhaedon Kidoniatis, Vice-President of the Federation of European Publishers, spoke about Greece’s role as Guest of Honour, highlighting it as a platform for cultural exchange. He underscored the historical contributions of both Greek and Arab scholars and stressed the importance of responsibly harnessing AI to foster creativity in publishing.Driving business and building connectionsNew conference initiatives aim to strengthen industry collaboration. The Boardroom Exchange provides pre-booked, 30-minute meetings between senior executives from publishing and tech firms and international participants.The Exhibitor Wall showcases suppliers offering services from printing and digital distribution to AI-driven marketing tools, helping publishers expand operations and reach new markets.Workshops and discussions shaping the futureThe opening day hosted 31 workshops addressing key challenges and solutions in global publishing. Topics included AI applications in editing, translation, and marketing, ethical implementation of new technologies, contemporary marketing strategies, and metadata’s role in driving sales.Discussions also explored empowering smaller markets through translation rights deals, promoting sustainable print practices, and increasing accessibility for readers with disabilities. Participants examined the global reading crisis and strategies for transforming challenges into growth opportunities.Exclusive matchmaking for strategic partnershipsOver the next two days, the conference will host exclusive matchmaking sessions, connecting publishers with literary agents and facilitating deals for translation, publishing, and distribution rights. These sessions aim to strengthen international partnerships and cement Sharjah’s role as a hub for the global publishing industry..Sharjah builds investment credibility through institutions, not incentives: Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi.Bodour Al Qasimi inaugurates 2nd Early Childhood Literacy Conference in Sharjah .Women in Technology Forum: Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi calls for stronger female role in future tech.Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi conferred University of Leicester’s first-ever honorary professorship

1 days ago

Technology

US rejects B1/B2 visa for Indian techie earning ₹10 million in under a minute

An Indian tech professional’s plan to attend a major industry conference in the United States came to an abrupt halt after his B1/B2 visa request was rejected at the US Embassy in New Delhi. He shared his experience on Reddit, sparking widespread discussion among IT community members..Why UAE travellers get rejected for US B1/B2 visas — and how to avoid it. Quick interview, faster denialThe applicant, a senior technical lead specialising in Cloud Native platforms, revealed that the visa denial occurred in less than a minute, after only three questions.“I had my B1/B2 visa interview at the US Embassy today in Delhi, and I was rejected in less than a minute after just three questions. I’m trying to understand what went wrong and how I can improve for next time,” he wrote.During the brief interview, the officer asked about his reason for travel, prior international trips, and whether he had any contacts in the US. He explained that he intended to attend KubeCon + CloudNativeCon 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia, which he described as essential for staying updated in his field..'Welcome Home Bhai': US techie flaunts 5-year India visa, praises Modi, mocks Trump. Previous travel and family tiesThe applicant mentioned previous travel to Lithuania, the Maldives, and Indonesia, and confirmed he had no family or friends in the US. He was issued a 214(b) refusal slip, a common category linked to failure to demonstrate strong ties to the home country.He expressed surprise, noting his stable job in India for 11 years, an annual salary of close to ₹10 million, and an eight-month-old daughter, which he believed strongly tied him to returning to India.“I had very strong motivations to come back,” he wrote..US, Schengen visa applications in UAE: How to avoid getting duped by fake agents, 'guaranteed approval' scams. Travel plans already madeThe tech professional had booked flights and accommodation for the Atlanta event, which was not available for live streaming.“I had planned everything to attend it in person,” he said.He asked the Reddit community for advice on improving his chances before reapplying, citing the abrupt denial despite his professional and personal background. The claims, however, could not be independently verified.US visa rules and 214(b) clauseThe US Department of State emphasises that a visa is a privilege, not a right, and approval depends on the officer’s assessment. Under Section 214(b), a visa may be denied if the applicant fails to demonstrate strong ties to their home country or if there are discrepancies in information.Even minor perceived lapses or inconsistencies can result in a denial, illustrating the subjective nature of visa assessments..H-1B chaos? China’s new K visa could be your next move: Who can apply?.US H-1B visa changes spark global shift: IT Talent eyes new horizons - Y-Axis.O-1 Einstein visa vs H-1B visa: What's the difference?.H-1B visa cost increases $100K: 8 alternative US temporary work visas

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