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Technology

Kerala fares better than US on various social indicators: CM Vijayan

Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 1 (PTI) Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday claimed that the state fares much better than the United States of America on various social indicators, like maternal and infant mortality rates, and termed it as “the real Kerala story”. Vijayan, speaking after announcing the eradication of extreme poverty from the state at a public event here, said that it was a fact that Kerala’s infant mortality rate and maternal mortality rate are lower than those in the US. “This is no small achievement. How did our state, with a GDP of just USD 167.90 billion, surpass the economic giant with a GDP of USD 30.51 trillion? We only have 0.55 percent of their GDP. Yet we managed to surpass America. This is the ‘real Kerala story’,” he said. Vijayan said that 22.3 mothers lose their lives per 100,000 births in the United States, while in Kerala it is 18. “In Kerala, there are five infant deaths per thousand births. In the United States, it is 5.6. While Kerala is far ahead with a literacy rate of 96.2 per cent, the literacy rate in the United States is only 79 per cent. “While multidimensional poverty has been almost eradicated in Kerala (0.55 per cent), it is 5.68 per cent in the United States,” he contended. The CM said that all this proves that the true measure of a nation was not its accumulated wealth, but the care and priority it gives to its people. He said that the main goal of the ‘Nava Kerala’ project is to raise the standard of living in the state to that of developed countries. “Now I can say with complete confidence that that goal is not far off,” he added. Vijayan said that Kerala stands as a miracle when compared to other states in the country. While the maternal mortality rate in Uttar Pradesh stands at 141, in Kerala it is only 18 and according to the Niti Aayog, the southern state has the lowest poverty rate in the country. Kerala also ranks first in the country in sustainable development, health and education according to the Niti Aayog, he said and added that “development was not only about skyscrapers, but also about human happiness”. “We are not only solving today’s problems, we are also building a knowledge economy for tomorrow’s generation,” he emphasised. PTI HMP ROH

Nov 1, 2025

Technology

Armed forces to soon conduct tri-service Excercise Trishul in western sector

New Delhi, Nov 1 (PTI) A tri-service exercise aiming to foster synergy and interoperability among the three wings of the armed forces, and achieve integrated operations across diverse terrain and mission spectrums, will be held in the western sector soon, officials said on Saturday. Exercise Trishul exemplifies India’s resolve to safeguard its borders through the spirit of “JAI” — “Jointness, Atmanirbharta and Innovation”, the defence ministry said. In a post on X, the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS) said, “Exercise TRISHUL — Tri-Services Synergy Enabling Integrated Operations” and added that “Trishul” signifies the “strength in unity”. The gallant troops of the Indian armed forces are conducting the exercise, a major tri-service “operational validation in the western sector”, it said. “The exercise hones joint operations and interoperability among the #IndianArmy, #IndianNavy and #IndianAirForce demonstrating Tri-Services synergy, achieving integrated operations across diverse terrain and mission spectrums,” the HQ IDS said. It reaffirms the Indian armed forces’ commitment to building a tech-enabled and future-ready force, capable of “deterring and winning wars in integrated multi-domain environments”, the officials said. PTI KND RC

Nov 1, 2025

Technology

CJI (Designate) Justice Surya Kant to Oudh Bar Association foundation day

Lucknow, Nov 1 (PTI) Chief Justice of India (Designate) Justice Surya Kant will be the chief guest at the 125th foundation year celebration of the Oudh Bar Association (OBA) in Lucknow. The jurist will address a seminar on ‘Role of Bar in Dispensation of Justice’ to mark the occasion. The event will take place on Sunday at the high court auditorium in Gomti Nagar. Allahabad High Court Chief Justice Arun Bhansali and Delhi High Court Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya will be the special guests. Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta, Justice M C Tripathi, and Justice Rajan Roy will attend as guests of honour, OBA general secretary Lalit Tiwari said. PTI COR CDN VN VN

Nov 1, 2025

Technology

3 killed after dumper truck hits 2-wheeler in Greater Noida; driver held

Noida, Nov 1 (PTI) Three men were killed after a speeding dumper truck hit their motorcycle in the Dadri police station area in Uttar Pradesh’s Gautam Buddh Nagar district on Saturday, police said. The victims were identified as Montu (19), Shwet (19) and Rohit (20), residents of Bulandshahr district who were living in a village within the Dadri police station limits. They were on their way to Greater Noida from their village, Ghari Bachhedi, when the accident occurred around 12:30 pm, police said. “The three were seriously injured in the collision and rushed to a hospital, where doctors declared them dead,” said Arvind Kumar, Station House Officer (SHO) of Dadri. Police said the driver of the dumper truck, Manish, a resident of Bihar, was arrested soon after the incident and the vehicle seized. “Further legal proceedings are underway,” the SHO added. PTI COR KIS RC

Nov 1, 2025

Technology

Delhi: 22-year-old dies after his car rams into truck

New Delhi, Nov 1 (PTI) A 22-year-old man died after the car he was driving rammed into a stationary truck on the Salimgarh flyover in central Delhi early on Saturday, police said. A PCR call regarding the accident was received at the IP Estate police station on Saturday morning. A police team rushed to the spot and found two vehicles, a truck and a car, involved in the collision, they said. “The injured person had already been taken to LNJP Hospital for treatment, where he was later declared dead. The deceased was identified as Rudra Pratap, resident of Noida, Uttar Pradesh,” a senior police officer said. Preliminary investigation revealed that the truck had developed a puncture and was stationary on the flyover when the car, driven by Rudra Pratap, crashed into it from behind, the officer said. Police said a case under Sections 281 (Rash driving) and 106(1) (Causing death by negligence) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and relevant provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act has been registered. The investigation is underway to ascertain the exact sequence of events leading to the crash, and the truck driver is being questioned, officials added. PTI SSJ MPL MPL

Nov 1, 2025

Technology

Orient Cement profit up multifold to Rs 49 cr in Q2

New Delhi, Nov 1 (PTI) Orient Cement Ltd, now part of Billionaire Gautam Adani-led Adani Group, on Saturday reported a multi-fold jump in net profit to Rs 49.08 crore in the September quarter, helped by gains from tax reversals and increase in volume. The company reported a net profit of Rs 2.32 crore for the July-September quarter a year ago, according to a regulator filing from Orient Cement Ltd (OCL), now a subsidiary of Ambuja Cements. Its revenue from operations was up 18.25 per cent to Rs 643.32 crore in the September quarter of FY26. It was at Rs 544.02 crore in the corresponding period a year ago. OCL’s total expenses were up 6.8 per cent to Rs 581.48 crore in the September quarter. Its cement sales value rose 29 per cent to 1.4 MT during the quarter, while the capacity utilisation was at 65 per cent. Its total income, which includes other income, was up 19.6 per cent at Rs 655.16 crore. “During the quarter ended June 30, 2025, the company opted for the reduced tax rate regime under Section 115BAA due to which the net deferred tax liability as on April 1, 2025, which was previously recognised at the erstwhile higher tax rate, has been remeasured at the reduced rate, resulting in a reversal of Rs 81.18 crore during the quarter ended June 30, 2025. “Further, pursuant to the adoption of the reduced tax regime under Section 115BAA, the company has also reversed excess income tax provision of Rs 16.75 crore created for financial year 2024-25,” it said. Now, Adani Group controls 72.66 per cent in OCL after the open offer in the company, and the company has become a subsidiary of Ambuja Cements from June 18, 2025. According to OCL, “97 per cent of the Q2 sales are under Ambuja/ACC brands, while exit of the quarter it is 100 per cent (only few days of the beginning of the quarter 3 per cent sales happened under the Orient brand. This is one of the fastest integration and brand transition we have achieved,” it said. It is optimistic to achieve 75-80 per cent capacity utilisation for the remaining part of the year. PTI KRH TRB

Nov 1, 2025

Technology

Odisha: Javed Akhtar to receive SOA Sahitya Samman 2025

Bhubaneswar, Nov 1 (PTI) Screenwriter, lyricist and poet Javed Akhtar will be conferred with the 2025 SOA Sahitya Samman in recognition of his lifelong contribution to Indian cinema and literature. The award will be presented to the Padma Bhushan awardee during the inaugural session of the two-day third SOA Literary Festival to be held in the Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (SOA) Deemed to be University campus here on November 29. The award carries a cash prize of Rs 7 lakh along with a citation, a silver idol of Goddess Saraswati and a shawl. The award is conferred annually on distinguished Indian litterateurs writing in any language recognised by the Constitution, said Gayatribala Panda, director of the festival. PTI AAM AAM MNB

Nov 1, 2025

Technology

ANTCC protests over 'dilapidated' NH-4 in Andaman, police complaint filed

Port Blair, Nov 1 (PTI) The Andaman and Nicobar Territorial Congress Committee (ANTCC) on Saturday staged a protest at Rangat Bazaar over the poor condition of National Highway-4 and demanded urgent repairs. The protest, which was led by ANTCC president Rangalal Halder and campaign committee chairman TSG Bhasker, was attended by hundreds of residents, auto and cab drivers, and shopkeepers from the area. Demonstrators raised slogans demanding immediate restoration of NH-4, a key lifeline connecting South, Middle, and North Andaman, which, according to them has been in a dilapidated condition for eight years. ANTCC leaders lodged a police complaint against the contractors involved with the NH-4 project, alleging siphoning of public funds and calling for a thorough investigation. In the afternoon, the demonstration turned tense when some agitated Congress workers tore posters of Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari and attempted to burn an effigy, which led to clashes between police and public. Senior district officials, including the Additional District Magistrate, North and Middle Andaman, Assistant Commissioner, Rangat, the General Manager, National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), and senior police officers, reached the spot to pacify the protesters. After a discussion with the ANTCC leaders, the officials assured the crowd that repairs on NH-4 would be expedited on a priority basis. The NH-4, also known as the Andaman Trunk Road (ATR), serves as the only major surface connection linking the capital Port Blair with northern districts like Rangat and Diglipur, making its upkeep vital for the island’s economy and mobility. PTI SN MNB

Nov 1, 2025

Technology

Jammu Police reviews security preparedness ahead of Jhiri Mela next week

Jammu, Nov 1 (PTI) With the 10-day Jhiri Mela set to begin here on November 4, a senior police officer on Saturday underlined the need for meticulous planning and execution of security measures to address potential threats and challenges. The Jhiri Mela is held every year during ‘Kartik Purnima’ to commemorate sacrifice of the 16th-century farmer saint Baba Jitto, who laid down his life fighting against injustice and feudalism. A large number of farmers from Jammu region and neighbouring states visit Baba Jitto temple at Jhiri village, 20 kilometres from here on the Jammu-Akhnoor national highway. They seek the blessings of the saint and his daughter Bua Kouri who, according to the legend, took her life by jumping on her father’s funeral pyre. The Department of Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare in Jammu has started preparations for the mela, scheduled from November 4 to 13. The mela will serve as a vital platform to enhance farmers’ knowledge, exposure and engagement with new technologies and government schemes, officials said. Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG), Jammu-Samba-Kathua range, Shiv Kumar Sharma on Saturday chaired a meeting here to review security preparations for the mela. Sharma emphasised the importance of coordinated efforts among all stakeholders to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims. He highlighted the need for meticulous planning and execution of security measures to address any potential threats and challenges, a police spokesperson said. Besides strategies to manage the influx of pilgrims, the meeting also reviewed traffic regulation, parking facilities, emergency response measures, adequate medical facilities and disaster management plans to address health-related issues and emergencies during the mela, the spokesperson said. He said the DIG visited old Kahnachack and interacted with Border Security Force (BSF) officers who briefed him about heightened alertness and patrolling along the International Border. Sharma also discussed security related issues with the BSF authority and also imparted necessary directions to the officers and jawans, he said. Meanwhile, DIG (traffic) Mohammed Haseeb Mughal separately reviewed traffic arrangements put in place for the smooth conduct of the annual mela. During the meeting, Mughal directed the officers to ensure seamless traffic flow, adequate parking spaces, and clearly marked entry and exit points to prevent congestion during peak hours. He also instructed that special focus be laid on anti-sabotage measures, CCTV surveillance, and night patrolling to ensure the safety and security of devotees, a traffic police official said. PTI TAS TAS RUK RUK

Nov 1, 2025

Technology

22-year-old history-sheeter shot dead in Delhi's Seelampur

New Delhi [India], October 31 (ANI): A 22-year-old man, who had multiple criminal cases registered against him, was shot dead by unidentified assailants in Northeast Delhi’s Seelampur on Thursday night, the Delhi Police said.According to the police, a firing incident was reported at Seelampur at about 10:40 PM yesterday. Upon reaching the spot near Jama Masjid Seelampur, a police team found a person injured. He was taken to JPC Hospital but was declared dead on arrival by attending doctors, said the police.The police said the victim was identified as Misbah (22). Forensic teams are gathering the evidence from the scene of the crime. A case has been registered under the relevant sections at Seelampur Police Station. Teams have been deployed to identify and arrest the accused involved in the crime at the earliest.During the preliminary investigation, the deceased was found involved in seven criminal cases related to murder, attempted murder, robbery and the Arms Act. Investigation in the case is ongoing, said the Delhi Police.In another operation, the South-West District Police on Thursday solved a murder case of a 23-year-old cab driver named Nitesh Khatri, within just two hours of the crime being reported.The staff of Police Station Kishangarh arrested two accused, both 23 years old, identified as Mohit Mehlawat alias Mannu, a resident of Kishangarh, and Lucky alias Tannu, a resident of Mehrauli.On Monday morning, police were alerted after a morning walker discovered the body of Nitesh Khatri inside Machhli Park, Kishangarh. The victim was found lying in a pool of blood with multiple stab injuries on his abdomen and near his ear.Investigations began immediately after the police unlocked the victim’s mobile phone using facial recognition technology.Analysis of CCTV footage and deployment of local informers helped the team zero in on the suspects.During sustained interrogation, both accused confessed to the killing, citing personal enmity and a desire for revenge due to previous altercations with the victim. Police said the duo had pre-planned the attack and used Instagram to lure Nitesh to the park before stabbing him multiple times. (ANI)

Oct 31, 2025

Technology

Doctor dies after car falls into canal in Kottayam

Kottayam (Kerala), Oct 31 (PTI) A 33-year-old doctor died after the car he was driving fell into a canal at Vaikom here, police said on Friday. The deceased has been identified as Dr Amal Suraj, a native of Ottapalam in Palakkad district, who was working at a private hospital in Kottarakkara, Kollam. Police said the incident came to light in the morning when residents noticed a car floating in the canal near the Thottuvakam bridge and alerted authorities. Fire and Rescue Service personnel, along with police, retrieved the vehicle and found the doctor dead inside. Based on the car’s registration details, police contacted his family and confirmed his identity. Preliminary investigation suggests that the car might have fallen into the canal in the early hours of the morning, and the accident went unnoticed at the time. The body has been shifted to the Government Hospital in Vaikom for post-mortem. Police have launched an investigation into the incident, officials said. PTI TBA TBA ADB

Oct 31, 2025

Technology

Delhi air quality improves slightly, AQI now in 'poor' category

New Delhi [India], October 31 (ANI): Delhi air quality showed a slight improvement on Friday morning but still remained in the “poor” category, with many areas experiencing clearer skies and better visibility compared to recent days. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the national capital recorded an AQI of 268, categorised as ‘poor’, as of 8 am on Friday. Yesterday, at the same time, the city’s air quality was in the ‘very poor’ category, as the AQI recorded at 8 am was 352. Several key monitoring stations also recorded improvement in the air quality. Anand Vihar reported an AQI of 282, Aya Nagar 237, Burari Crossing 249, DTU 206, Dwarka Sector-8 288, IGI Airport 211, IHBAS Dilshad Garden 284, ITO 280, JLN Stadium 255, Nehru Nagar 270, Okhla Phase 2 255, Punjabi Bagh 293 and Patparganj 256 – all categorised as ‘poor’. Some stations also recorded ‘moderate’ air quality, as the AQI reported at CRRI Mathura Road was 198, Chandani Chowk 194 and Lodhi Road 199, as of 8 am. However, several areas of the city still recorded ‘very poor’ air quality. According to the CPCB, the AQI at Alipur was 303, Ashok Vihar 328, Bawana 349, Jahangirpuri 312, Mundka 317, Narela 316, Najafgarh 310, RK Puram 305, Rohini 323, Sirifort 318 and Wazirpur 355. Earlier on Thursday, the monitoring stations at Anand Vihar reported an AQI of 408 and Vivek Vihar 415, categorised as ‘severe’ air quality, at the same time. Post-Diwali, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) has been reeling under the ‘poor’ and ‘very poor’ categories in several areas, even as Stage 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) remains in effect. Meanwhile, the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) on Wednesday announced the doubling of parking fees across the national capital after the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage II was invoked due to deteriorating air quality. The decision, aimed at discouraging the use of private vehicles, will see parking charges double for off-road and indoor parking areas managed by the NDMC. Additionally, the CAQM has prohibited the entry of commercial goods vehicles registered outside the national capital that remain non-compliant with BS-VI emission standards from November 1. According to the notification, non-BS-VI-compliant commercial goods vehicles are allowed to enter Delhi only until October 31, 2026. The Delhi government has already completed two consecutive cloud seeding operations as part of its robust air quality management strategy. (ANI)

Oct 31, 2025

Technology

President Murmu pays tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on National Unity Day

New Delhi [India], October 31 (ANI): President Droupadi Murmu paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his birth anniversary, celebrated as National Unity Day, on Friday and recalled his immense contributions towards unifying the nation.Taking to X, President Murmu said, “On the birth anniversary of ‘Iron Man’ Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, I extend my heartfelt best wishes to all my fellow citizens. Sardar Patel was a great patriot, visionary leader, and nation-builder, who accomplished the historic task of unifying the country through his unwavering resolve, indomitable courage, and adept leadership.” Adding further, she said, “His dedication and spirit of national service serve as an inspiration to us all. Let us, on the occasion of ‘National Unity Day’, unite together and resolve to build a strong, harmonious, and excellent India.”Meanwhile, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th birth anniversary and extended greetings to the people of the state on the occasion of National Unity Day.On this occasion, the Chief Minister remembered the ‘Iron Man of India’, stating that Sardar Patel’s immense contributions to safeguarding the nation’s unity and integrity will always be remembered.“The Chief Minister said that Sardar Patel’s diplomacy and foresight played a crucial role in the creation of a united India. Through his strong willpower, vision, and unwavering dedication, Sardar Patel fulfilled the dream of an integrated India and laid the foundation for a strong and empowered nation,” the statement added.Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birth anniversary is celebrated as National Unity Day, also known as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, on October 31. Since 2014, the day has been marked by ‘Run for Unity’ events nationwide, participated in by people from all walks of life.Born on October 31, 1875, in Nadiad, Gujarat, Sardar Patel is credited with uniting the 562 princely states of pre-independent India and helping establish the Republic of India. He served as the country’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister from 1947 to 1950.He passed away on December 15, 1950. (ANI)

Oct 31, 2025

Technology

NIA Court sentences one accused in Al-Qaeda terror conspiracy case in Lucknow

New Delhi [India], October 31 (ANI): The Special Court of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in Lucknow sentenced one accused to imprisonment and imposed a fine for its involvement in a terror conspiracy linked to the banned terrorist organisation Al Qaeda on Thursday. The arrests took place based on information shared by one Al-Qaeda member, Umar Halmandi, who had himself identified and recruited some persons in Lucknow for raising the Al-Qaeda module in the region. He had further informed the police about the Al Qaeda affiliate ‘Ansaar Gajwatul Hind’ (AGH), an outfit raised to carry out a series of terrorist acts before August 15, 2021, in various cities of U.P, especially Lucknow.According to the NIA, Mohammad Moid, along with two other accused, Shakeel and Mohd. Mustaqeem, assisted the accused Minhaj and Museeruddin in obtaining weapons and ammunition to further the terror conspiracy of AGH. The NIA stated that Minhaj was radicalised by Tawheed and Adil Nabi, also known as Musa, and subsequently conspired with Museeruddin, who even pledged loyalty (baiyat) to advance the terror plot. Together, Minhaj and Museeruddin acquired arms, ammunition, and explosive materials with the intention of waging war against the Government of India.The court has sentenced Mohammad Moid to the time he has already spent in prison, which amounts to 1 year, 9 months, and 13 days. Additionally, he was fined Rs. 5,000 under Section 25 (1B)(a) of the Arms Act, in conjunction with Section 120B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). This sentence was pronounced after the accused pleaded guilty.Currently, the trial for the remaining five accused, who have been charged in this case, is ongoing. This case relates to the arrest of two Al Qaeda members in July 2021 by the U.P. Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). Earlier, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) took over the case from the ATS. On January 5, 2022, the NIA chargesheeted five accused and later filed a supplementary chargesheet against one additional individual in August of the same year. (ANI)

Oct 31, 2025

Technology

'America First' Trump loved hanging out with global elite during his Asia trip

Tokyo, Oct 31 (AP) For an “America First” president, Donald Trump seemed to love his whirlwind five days skipping across Asia — a reflection of a White House that is increasingly focused on the rest of the world. When Trump stepped off Air Force One on Sunday for his first stop in Malaysia, he danced with local performers who had greeted him on the red carpet. In Japan, he helicoptered to a mammoth aircraft carrier for a speech with the country’s prime minister. And South Korea gave him a gold medal and crown as gifts. Back home in Washington, the federal government was shut down as Trump’s poll numbers remain low, and it’s unclear how much Trump’s trip will resonate with voters consumed by other concerns at home. Yet on the last night of his trip, Trump was overheard at a state dinner talking about how much he enjoyed meetings with his foreign counterparts. “That was a great meeting,” Trump said. “They’re all great meetings. This was a great meeting. We had a fantastic meeting.” Had a president who once used the term “globalist” as a slur suddenly found the fun in being a little bit globalist? He definitely likes the international deal making, the parties in his honour, the praise from other leaders and the possibility of leaving his mark on the wider world. The president sees diplomacy as a way to fulfil his domestic agenda of creating factory jobs, said Carla Sands, who was the US ambassador to Denmark during Trump’s first term and is now chair of the foreign policy initiative at the America First Policy Institute, a pro-Trump think tank. “President Trump is working as fast as possible to reindustrialise America, bring jobs back home, and secure better trade deals for the American people and businesses,” Sands said. The ebullience abroad also reflects the mood of a president who has struck economic deals and helped smooth relations between warring nations. He helped to affirm a ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand. There’s a detailed list of nearly $500 billion in investment commitments from Japan. And South Korea pledged $150 billion to help revive American shipbuilding, including a project to acquire a nuclear-powered submarine — on top of $200 billion in investments over a decade to the US. “It’s not globalism to go to other countries and stand up for America,” said Hogan Gidley, a former White House aide who travelled to Asia and other foreign destinations with Trump in his first term. When Trump travels, he makes sure “the globe is fully aware that this president is going to stand up for the American people first,” Gidley said, making it “the exact opposite of globalism.” As for the dancing? “Look, when you’re scoring touchdowns, it’s OK to dance in the end zone,” Gidley said. “And this president is scoring touchdowns and running up the score.” Many Trump voters believed they were electing a president who would focus on them instead of distant countries. But Trump in his second term is increasingly finding it easier to sell the idea of America with jaunts to Asia and the Middle East. The shift in tone reflects foreign governments’ strenuous efforts to keep Trump happy, like stationing American-made vehicles near him in Tokyo and featuring US-raised beef on the menu. Trump is increasingly showing confidence that he can play on the global stage, instead of grinding metaphorical axes as he did during his first term by attacking NATO and finding ways to intimidate and frustrate allies such as Angela Merkel, then the chancellor of Germany. “He appears to believe in his skills as a one-on-one negotiator with world leaders,” said Jasen Castillo, a professor with a focus on national security at Texas A&M University. “All of this suggests that his foreign policy ventures are genuine.” Still, it’s not always clear what Trump is trying to achieve, other than a chance to declare victory. Some of his trade talks have led to foreign countries promising investments, but not necessarily the careful negotiations on which durable coalitions are built. “What can confuse observers is that he lacks a consistent, coherent world view,” Castillo added. The US president in Asia was hardly the grimacing presence he’s been at times in the Oval Office, where he’s objected to the support Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has sought in the war against Russia and chastised post-apartheid South Africans on their treatment of white Afrikaners. In Asia, it was a lovefest. Trump said Southeast Asian nations had “spectacular leaders,” the new Japanese prime minister was “a winner” and the South Korean president could “go down as the greatest of them all”. Rather than complaining about foreign countries ripping off America, he told business leaders that “the best deals are deals that work for everybody”. Trump was similarly effusive after sitting down on Thursday with Chinese leader Xi Jinping shortly before returning to Washington. “I guess on the scale from 0 to 10, with 10 being the best, I would say the meeting was a 12,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One. Trump seems to enjoy doing foreign policy on his own terms. He prizes bold shows of force, like attacking nuclear sites in Iran and boats allegedly carrying drugs in the Caribbean. He minimises participation in lengthy multilateral meetings that can require more listening than talking. Arriving at the summit for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, Trump offered a spot in the armoured presidential limousine to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who was thrilled to join him in the vehicle nicknamed “The Beast”. “When the president arrives, he asked me to join him in the car,” Anwar later recalled in a speech. “I said, That’s against the security and protocol rules, and he was delighted to break the rules.” The White House said that Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi planned to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize, with Takaichi telling him she was “so impressed and inspired” by Trump’s commitment to world peace and stability. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung said Trump “will be recognised forever in the history of humanity” if he could bring his peacemaker skills to ending the military standoff with North Korea, before complimenting him for US stock indexes hitting a record high. Even the far more reserved Xi seemed to suggest that Trump’s policies behind elevating America were also good for China. “I always believe that China’s development goes hand in hand with your vision to ‘Make America Great Again’,” Xi said through a translator. While the White House is trumpeting the results of Trump’s trip back home, it’s unclear how much his foreign policy actions mattered to a country worried about inflation staying high. Going into the 2025 elections Tuesday with a mayoral race in New York City and governors’ elections in Virginia and New Jersey, many Americans are harbouring deep anxieties about Trump’s leadership. The monthlong government shutdown is starting to cause pain with missed paychecks and government food aid no longer being available to millions of families. About 6 in 10 US adults disapprove of Trump’s performance as president, according to an October poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. Trump told his audiences in Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo and South Korea that America has never been better. “We’re literally sort of an inspiration to a lot of other countries,” Trump said. (AP) SCY SCY

Oct 30, 2025

Technology

India A Vs South Africa A Live Score, First Unoffical Test Day 2: Follow Scorecard And Match Action From Bengalur

India A vs South Africa A Live Score, 1st Unofficial Test, Day 2 (India A National Cricket Team vs South Africa A National Cricket Team): Hello and welcome to News18 CricketNext‘s live coverage of Day 2 of the first unofficial Test in Bengaluru. India bowled South Africa A out for 299/9 on Day 1, with spinner Tanush Kotian starring by taking four wickets. After India chose to field first, South Africa’s top order built a strong foundation through fifties from Jordan Hermann (71), Zubayr Hamza (66), and Rubin Hermann (54). Anshul Kamnoj struck early, while Gurnoor Brar and Manav Suthar chipped in with key wickets. Kotian then turned the tide, dismissing skipper Marques Ackerman and breaking crucial partnerships. Khaleel Ahmed claimed the final wicket late in the day, leaving India in control going into Day 2. Playing XIs: India A: Rishabh Pant (C), Sai Sudharsan, Ayush Mhatre, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar, Ayush Badoni, Tanush Kotian, Anshul Kamboj, Manav Suthar, Gurnoor Brar, Khaleel Ahmed South Africa A: Marques Ackerman (c), Jordan Hermann, Lesego Senokwane, Zubayr Hamza, Rubin Hermann, Rivaldo Moonsamy, Tiaan Van Vuuren, Prenelan Subrayen, Tshepo Moreki, Lutho Sipamla, Okuhle Cele

Oct 30, 2025

Technology

Groww's Rs 6,632 cr IPO to open on Nov 4; targets valuation of USD 7 bn

New Delhi, Oct 30 (PTI) Billionbrains Garage Ventures, the parent company of stock broking firm Groww, on Thursday fixed a price band of Rs 95-100 per share for its upcoming Initial Public Offering (IPO), targeting a valuation of over Rs 61,700 crore (about USD 7 billion). The company’s Rs 6,632 crore IPO would open for public subscription on November 4 and conclude on November 7, the stock broking firm announced. The bidding for anchor investors would open for a day on November 3. The IPO comprises fresh issue of equity shares worth Rs 1,060 crore along with an Offer For Sale (OFS) component of 574,190,754 equity shares by promoters and investor shareholders. As a part of the OFS, the company’s promoters — Lalit Keshre, Harsh Jain, Neeraj Singh, and Ishan Bansal — each offering up to 1 million shares, besides, investors such as Peak XV Partners Investments VI-1, YC Holdings II, Ribbit Capital V, GW-E Ribbit Opportunity V, Internet Fund VI Pte Ltd, and Kauffman Fellows Fund, LP are offloading shares. Groww’s founders own 27.97 per cent of the company and have filed as promoters of the company with a 20 per cent lock-in for 1.5 years from the time of listing. In the IPO, they are offering to sell only 0.07 per cent of the total shares of the company. The company, which is backed by marquee investors like Peak XV, Tiger Capital, and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, plans to use proceeds of the IPO for investment in technology development and business expansion. Groww cofounder and COO Harsh Jain said the company will continue to focus on brand building, launching new products, and investing in technology to attract more customers and strengthen its position in the market. “Technology will always remain our core focus. We are agile and among the most cost-effective players in the industry,” Jain told PTI. He added that there is still tremendous scope for growth as more people begin to participate in the capital markets. “Right now, we are not looking beyond wealth. It’s a massive market in itself,” he noted. Despite the impact of the Sebi’s tightening of F&O norms on the broader industry, Groww reported a profit of Rs 1,824 crore in FY25, a threefold increase from the previous year. This strong performance, Jain said, was driven by a diversified product portfolio and a strong customer-centric approach. “We continue to grow organically as customers now have access to a wide range of investment products on our platform,” he said. Over 80 per cent of the company’s new customers are acquired organically, and its three-year retention rate is 77 per cent. On the mutual funds side, Groww accounted for Rs 34,000 crore of SIP inflows in FY25, or 11.8 per cent of industry totals, according to AMFI data. Reflecting on Groww’s journey, Jain recalled that the team was passionate about empowering investors and saw how the internet was disrupting traditional investing models. “The power of the internet is that it allows you to reach every nook and corner of the country,” he added. Of the fresh issuance, Rs 225 crore will be used for brand building and performance marketing activities, Rs 205 crore to be invested in Groww Creditserv Technology Private Limited (GCS), the NBFC arm, to augment its capital base. Additionally, Rs 167.5 crore will be infused into Groww Invest Tech Private Limited (GIT) for funding its margin trading facility (MTF) business, while Rs 152.5 crore has been earmarked towards strengthening cloud infrastructure. The balance will be utilised for funding inorganic growth through acquisitions and for general corporate purposes. Headquartered in Bengaluru, Groww filed draft papers in May with markets regulator Sebi for an IPO through a confidential pre-filing route and had received Sebi’s approval in August. Groww opted for the confidential pre-filing route, which allows it to withhold public disclosure of IPO details under the DRHP until later stages. This route is gaining traction among Indian firms aiming for flexibility in their IPO plans. Founded in 2016, Groww emerged as India’s largest stock broker with over 12.6 million active clients and an over 26 per cent market share as of June 2025. The company has recently expanded into wealth management, commodities, Margin Trading Facility (MTF), and loans against shares, moves it sees as part of its longer-term growth strategy. According to the company, 75 per cent of the issue size has been reserved for qualified institutional buyers, 15 per cent for non-institutional investors and the remaining 10 per cent for retail investors. Groww will make its stock market debut on November 12. PTI SP DR DR

Oct 30, 2025

Technology

French trial examines Holocaust Memorial graffiti believed linked to Russia

Paris, Oct 30 (AP) Three Bulgarian men are on trial in Paris this week for alleged involvement in spray-painting blood-red hands on the city’s Holocaust Memorial, an act of vandalism that French intelligence services link to a campaign by Russia to destabilise France and other Western societies. Some 500 red hands were painted last year on a wall honouring those who helped rescue Jews during World War II and around nearby Paris neighbourhoods. The graffiti was initially viewed in the context of the war in Gaza, which has led to a rise in antisemitic incidents and tensions around Europe. But French intelligence services say the red hands were part of a long-term strategy by Russia to use paid proxies to divide public opinion, stoke social tensions and spread false information, according to court documents. Governments across Europe have accused Russia in recent years of a campaign of sabotage that has included paying people to commit acts of vandalism, arson and bombing attempts. Four Bulgarians are charged in the Holocaust Memorial case, but only three are in custody and were present for Wednesday’s trial. The alleged ringleader, Mircho Angelov, is at large. The first to testify, Georgi Filipov, said he painted the red hands in exchange for 1,000 euros to help pay child support for his 9-year-old son. He said he was paid by Angelov and did not address accusations of Russian involvement. “I acknowledge having participated in these acts. I formally apologise to the victims, and I apologise for the damage. I also apologise to the French authorities,” he told the court through translators. Filipov said he was a former neo-Nazi and that he might have been recruited because his social media feeds showed him with neo-Nazi tattoos and a t-shirt praising Hitler. He described the tattoos as a “bad choice from my past” and claimed he only understood the antisemitic nature of the act upon his return to Bulgaria. Kiril Milushev testified that he filmed the graffiti at Angelov’s instruction in exchange for 500 euros. “I regret having participated in this act,” he told the court. Investigators say Milushev was also suspected of defacing a gravestone in Munich, and of involvement in pasting stickers near hotels in the Swiss city of Zurich ahead of a Ukraine peace conference last year. The third defendant, Nikolay Ivanov, was questioned about his role in four incidents of alleged Russian interference. He denied any pro-Russian connections or sentiments, and any responsibility for the red-hands graffiti. Ivanov is accused of buying plane tickets for the other defendants from the Bulgarian capital Sofia to Brussels, and then Brussels-Paris bus tickets, and paying for their hotel in Paris. He said he bought the tickets and hotel stays at Angelov’s request, and had only “rendered a service to a friend.” The suspects face charges including criminal conspiracy or aggravated degradation of property based on race, ethnicity or religion. They could face several years in prison if convicted. Plaintiffs include the Paris Holocaust Memorial and the League against Racism and Antisemitism. The red hand graffiti was among several strange incidents over the past two years in France, and the first to come to trial. Among others: In October 2023, soon after the start of the Israel-Hamas war, stencils of blue Stars of David appeared on Paris buildings. French authorities accused Russian security services of stirring up controversy around the stars. Two Moldovans were detained and deported in the case. In June 2024, five coffins appeared at the foot of the Eiffel Tower with references to Ukraine ahead of a visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Filipov, the defendant in the red hands case, said he was initially recruited to transport the coffins but testified that he backed out when he was told to put them beneath the famous Paris landmark. Three other men, born in Bulgaria, Germany and Ukraine, are suspected in the case, and a warrant has been issued for their arrest. Unusual spray-painted images and messages with references to Ukraine appeared on the streets of Paris a few days later, as Zelenskyy met with then-US President Joe Biden in the French capital. Three Moldovans are in custody pending further investigation. And last month, severed pigs’ heads were found near nine Paris-area mosques, five of which had Macron’s name written on them. An investigation is underway. (AP) SKS SKS

Oct 30, 2025

Technology

Weakened Cyclone ‘Montha’ to bring heavy rain in parts of Bengal

Kolkata, Oct 30 (PTI) Cyclone ‘Montha’, which has gradually weakened into a well-marked low-pressure area, will bring heavy rain in some districts of West Bengal till Saturday, the IMD said. The weather system, which is situated over south Chhattisgarh, is likely to move northwards towards east Madhya Pradesh and weaken further, the India Meteorological Department said in a bulletin. It is likely to bring heavy to very heavy rain (7-20 cm) at one or two places in the north Bengal districts of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar and Cooch Behar and 7-11 cm precipitation in Malda, Uttar and Dakshin Dinajpur on Friday, it said. Heavy rainfall is also likely in Alipurduar and Coochbehar on Saturday. The IMD warned that landslides may occur in the hilly areas of Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts, owing to the downpour. The south Bengal districts of Birbhum, Murshidabad, Paschim Bardhaman and Purulia are also expected to receive heavy rainfall till Friday. Light to moderate rain is likely over many places in the other south Bengal districts, it added. PTI AMR RBT

Oct 30, 2025

Technology

India's Q3 gold demand value rises 23% to Rs. 2,03,240 crore: World Gold Council

New Delhi [India], October 30 (ANI): India’s gold demand value in the July-September quarter of 2025 stands at Rs 2,03,240 crores, up 23 per cent from the same period last year, even as overall volumes decline, according to the World Gold Council’s Q3 2025 Gold Demand Trends report.The quarter records total demand of 209.4 tonnes, lower by 16 per cent compared to Q3 2024, showing that higher prices lift value while reducing tonnage. Within this, jewellery demand comes in at 117.7 tonnes, down 31 per cent year-on-year, but its value stays unchanged at Rs 1,14,270 crores. Investment demand uptick as volumes rise 20 per cent to 91.6 tonnes and value jumps 74 per cent to Rs 88,970 crores. The report attributes the value surge to higher average prices during the quarter.Sachin Jain, Regional CEO, India, World Gold Council, says the quarter “showcased its inherent resilience and the significant impact of evolving price dynamics.” He notes that while volumes fall, “this robust growth in value, driven by high average prices, strongly reaffirms gold’s enduring appeal as a safe-haven asset.” On the investment side, he adds that demand “showed remarkable strength,” highlighting a “deepening strategic commitment among Indian consumers to gold as a long-term store of value.”On supply, imports are 194.6 tonnes, down 37 per cent from last year’s quarter, and recycling is 21.8 tonnes, a 7 per cent decline. The report observes that these moves suggest households are holding on to gold rather than selling into the market. Prices remain elevated through the quarter, with the average at USD 3,456.5 per ounce and Rs 97,074.9 per 10 grams (excluding import duty and GST), shaping the shift from jewellery to investment-led buying.Jain says cultural drivers stay important for jewellery even at higher prices, as its value holds steady despite the volume drop. “This indicates that despite higher prices, gold’s intrinsic cultural significance continues to drive purchases, with consumers adapting to the new price levels,” he says. Looking ahead to the festive and wedding season, he says retailers are prepared and sentiment is positive, saying “We anticipate robust demand across all categories, from traditional jewellery to investment products, as the market gears up for a vibrant festive and wedding season.”Total demand is about 462.4 tonnes. The Council expects full-year demand between 600 and 700 tonnes, with the outcome leaning toward the higher end of that range, depending on seasonal buying and price movements into year-end. (ANI)

Oct 30, 2025