News from November 9, 2025

Politics

KRS backwaters encroachments: Mandya, Mysuru DCs told to mark boundary stones

Mysore/Mysuru: Deputy Chief Minister (Dy.CM) and Water Resources Minister D.K. Shivakumar has directed the Deputy Commissioners (DCs) of Mandya and Mysuru districts, along with the Managing Director (MD) of Cauvery Neeravari Nigama Limited (CNNL), to carry out a comprehensive survey of the Krishna Raja Sagar (KRS) Dam backwaters. Officials have been instructed to identify and clear all encroachments, mark boundary stones and submit a detailed report. The directive comes in response to concerns raised by Congress MLA Ramesh Babu Bandisiddegowda and MLC Dinesh Gooligowda over the unchecked growth of luxury resorts and unauthorised constructions in the backwater region. These encroachments are said to have reduced the Dam’s water-holding capacity, affecting irrigation and drinking water supply. Worsening water scarcity The KRS backwater region covers around 26,640 acres, supporting irrigation across nearly 2.76 lakh acres in Mandya and Mysuru districts. The reservoir supplies 1.579 tmcft of drinking water to Mysuru city and caters to Bengaluru and other towns in the Cauvery basin, besides facilitating power generation. However, increasing encroachments have considerably shrunk the storage area, worsening water scarcity during dry spells. In view of this, the Dy.CM has asked the Deputy Commissioners, along with officials from the Revenue, Land Records, Tourism Departments and Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation (CESC), to undertake a joint survey. If encroachments are found, they must be cleared immediately. Permanent boundary stones and signage are to be installed along the 130-foot contour line of the reservoir to demarcate its limits. To prevent further violations, Legislators have sought the setting up of a dedicated monitoring system. Agri land into resorts Encroachments have reportedly been detected in Srirangapatna, Pandavapura and K.R. Pet taluks of Mandya district, as well as K.R. Nagar, Mysuru and Hunsur taluks of Mysuru district. Legislators allege that landowners along the reservoir’s edge have illegally converted agricultural land into resorts, undermining the Dam’s capacity and ecological balance. They have recommended creating a ‘watch and ward’ system involving the Police Department and the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) to monitor illegal activities in the backwater zone. The diminished storage has severely impacted farmers in Malavalli, Maddur and canal tail-end regions, who depend heavily on KRS water for irrigation.

Author 14 hours ago

Politics

Equal society can be built with Kanakadasa’s preachings: Seer

Mysore/Mysuru: Kaginele Mutt Seer Sri Shivanandapuri Swamiji said that an equal society can be built and also domestic issues will get solved amicably if Kanakadasa’s preachings are understood properly. He was speaking at the Kanakadasa Jayanti celebrations organised jointly by Kanakadasa Jayantotsava Samiti and District Administration at Kalamandira here yesterday. Pointing out that several great personalities have strived for the eliminating ‘Adharma’ and to promote Dharma, Shivanandapuri Swamiji said that one great saint strived for bringing about social reforms at a time. “At present, the backward classes, dalits and minorities are waging struggles and movements for their rights. But despite this, it has not been possible to build an equal society and this is due to the weaknesses in these communities”, he noted. Maintaining that those who are benefiting from the five guarantee schemes of the State Government should have respect for the Government, the seer asked the Backward Classes not to speak against these guarantees as these are a step towards empowerment of these communities. MLA Tanveer Sait in his address, bemoaned that the present day society had failed in upholding the values propagated by great personalities and this is the reason why values are declining in the modern day society. Contending that following the preachings of great saints is important for building an equal society, he said that we should practise the ideals left behind by saints like Kanakadasa. MLA K. Harishgowda said that there is a need for reaching out Kanakadasa’s Keertanas to the younger generation. Then only the great saint’s preachings will reach out to all communities and all sections of the society, he said. Recalling that there was a lesson on Kaviratna Kalidasa when he studied Degree course, Harish Gowda said that Kanakadasa can be learnt more by visiting his birth place Kaginele in Byadgi taluk of Haveri district. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has announced more grants for Health and Education sector, he added. Urilingi Peddimutt seer Sri Jnanaprakash Swamiji too spoke. Floral tributes were paid to the statue of Kanakadasa on the occasion. Retired Food and Civil Supplies Department officer K. Rameshwarappa and team presented ‘Kanaka Bhakti Sangeetha Sudhe’, a musical presentation of Kanakadasa’s devotional songs. The team comprising B. Basavaraj, C.M. Narasimhamurthy, Raviraj, Arun Kumar, Umesh and Spandana Rameshwar, rendered songs such as ‘Nammamma Sharade’, ‘Toredu Jeevisabahude’, ‘Dasa Dasara Maneya’, ‘Yellaru Maduvudu Hottegagi’,’ Bagilanu Teredu’, ‘Kula Kula Kulavendu’ etc. Grand procession Earlier, a grand procession was taken out from Kote Anjaneyaswamy Temple at the Palace North gate, marking the Jayanti. The colourful procession, accompanied by folklore troupes, cultural teams and tableaux, the preachings of great personalities such as Saint Kanakadasa, freedom fighter Krantiveera Sangolli Rayanna, M.M. Hills temple builder Alambadi Junjegowda, Hakka-Bukka, founders of Vijayanagar empire and others, passed through K.R. Circle, Devaraj Urs Road, JLB Road and Vinoba Road, before reaching Kalamandira where the stage programme was held. MLAs G.T. Devegowda, K. Harishgowda, T.S. Srivatsa, former MLAs M.K. Somashekar and L. Nagendra, former MUDA Chairman K. Marigowda and others were present.

Author 14 hours ago

Health

Ayurveda offers holistic solutions to health challenges: Governor

Mysore/Mysuru: “In an era marked by lifestyle pressures, irregular dietary habits and environmental imbalance, Ayurveda offers a holistic path to balanced living. It emphasises not only the treatment of illness but also the prevention of disease through sustained wellness,” said Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot. He was speaking on the second day of ‘Samyojanam-2025,’ a National Conference on Metabolic Disorders jointly organised by Vishwa Ayurveda Parishad and Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) at KSOU premises yesterday. Highlighting Ayurveda’s integrative approach, the Governor noted that it harmonises body, mind and soul through yoga, meditation, panchakarma and herbal medicine. “When integrated with modern medicine, Ayurveda is emerging as a scientific and comprehensive health system rooted in the principle of ‘Swasthasya Swasthya Rakshanam’ — protecting the health of the healthy,” he said. Purity of mind, purity of food Recalling the contributions of ancient scholars, he added, “Acharya Charaka is revered as the ‘Father of Ayurvedic Medicine,’ while Acharya Sushruta is known as the ‘Father of Surgery.’ Their seminal texts — ‘Charaka Samhita’ and ‘Sushruta Samhita’ — laid the foundation for scientific diagnosis, treatment, surgery, diet and lifestyle principles. As our scriptures say, ‘Aharashuddhau Chittashuddhih’ — purity of mind is linked to purity of food. Promoting healthy living is one of the most meaningful outcomes this conference can achieve.” The Governor also highlighted the importance of public health awareness. “Government initiatives such as the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases, ‘Fit India Movement’ and ‘Eat Right India’ are working towards promoting healthy lifestyle practices. Public involvement is essential for their success.” He expressed confidence that the insights generated at the conference would help shape more people-centric and scientifically grounded healthcare policies. The event was attended by Varahamihira Advanced Centre for Vedic Technology Research Director Prof. Ramachandra G. Bhat, Yoganarasimhaswamy Temple Founder Dr. Bhashyam Swamy and RGUHS VC Dr. B.C. Bhagwan.

Author 14 hours ago

Sports

Forest staff subdue elephant after tense night in Gundlupet

Gundlupet: Gundlupet town heaved a sigh of relief after the Forest Department successfully brought elephant Parthasarathi under control following a tense night of chaos. The elephant, which had been brought in for a tiger-capturing operation near Kallahalli, ran amok after being stung by bees while drinking water at a lake on Friday evening. Startled and agitated, Parthasarathi broke free from its handlers and dashed through Gundlupet town, causing panic but no injuries. The tusker stormed through Panjanahalli Road, entered the National Highway, ran past the bus stand and Police Station, and continued towards Madahalli before heading along the Mallayyanapura Hill route towards Sultan Bathery Road. Disturbed further by traffic noise and lights, it remained uncontrollable until midnight. A team of forest personnel finally tracked the elephant near Berambadi Lake around 3 am. Acting on the mahout’s directions, the team managed to calm the animal and bring it under control. After a night of unrest, officials said Parthasarathi will be given a day’s rest before resuming duties. If the tiger is sighted again near Kallahalli, another elephant may be summoned from Bandipur to assist in the operation.

Author 14 hours ago

World

Tsunami Advisory Issued for Iwate After M6.7 Earthquake Off Sanriku Coast

IWATE, Nov 09 (News On Japan) - A magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck off the Sanriku coast at around 5:03 p.m. on November 9th, prompting the Japan Meteorological Agency to issue a tsunami advisory for Iwate Prefecture at 5:12 p.m. Authorities warned that tsunami waves may have already reached coastal areas. Residents and those near the sea were urged to move away from the coast and avoid entering the water, as conditions in the ocean and along the shoreline remain extremely dangerous. Source: ウェザーニュース POPULAR NEWS Tsunami Advisory Issued for Iwate After M6.7 Earthquake Off Sanriku Coast A magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck off the Sanriku coast at around 5:03 p.m. on November 9th, prompting the Japan Meteorological Agency to issue a tsunami advisory for Iwate Prefecture at 5:12 p.m. Authorities warned that tsunami waves may have already reached coastal areas. Niseko Tourism Surge Drives Land Frenzy The Niseko area at the foot of Mount Yotei, about a two-hour drive from Sapporo, is now in the spotlight once again as one of Japan’s top resort destinations prepares for the peak ski season. Fueled by surging inbound demand, construction of hotels and leisure facilities is rapidly expanding across the region—but local residents are increasingly alarmed by the rise in illegal land development and unauthorized building extensions. Takaichi Launches Into First Major Diet Battle After 3 a.m. Study Session The Budget Committee of the House of Representatives opened on November 7th, with Prime Minister Takaichi facing her first full-scale debate since taking office. Aluminum Balloon Causes Sapporo Subway Blackout A power outage that halted operations on the Sapporo Municipal Subway on November 3rd was caused by an aluminum-coated balloon. Investigations have revealed that similar troubles have occurred across various transportation systems in Japan. Rifles Approved for Bear Culling The National Police Agency announced on November 6th that it has revised the National Public Safety Commission regulations to allow police officers to use rifles for bear control. The amendment will take effect on November 13th. MEDIA CHANNELS Travel NEWS Eikando Temple in Kyoto Lights Up 3,000 Maple Trees A special nighttime viewing has begun at Eikando, one of Kyoto’s most famous spots for autumn foliage, where visitors can now enjoy a breathtaking illumination of maple trees. Autumn Leaves Light Up Gifu Highway Autumn foliage has reached its peak along the Hida-Mino Seseragi Highway, which connects Takayama City and Gujo City in Gifu Prefecture. Winter Price Hikes Hit Preparations for Snow Season As snow approaches, auto supply stores in Sapporo are entering their busiest period of tire changes. Aluminum Balloon Causes Sapporo Subway Blackout A power outage that halted operations on the Sapporo Municipal Subway on November 3rd was caused by an aluminum-coated balloon. Investigations have revealed that similar troubles have occurred across various transportation systems in Japan. Fukuoka Airport Passenger Numbers Hit Record High Passenger traffic at Fukuoka Airport reached an all-time high in the first half of the current fiscal year, marking a strong rebound in both domestic and international travel and putting the airport on track to post its first profit since being privatized in 2019. Family-Friendly Travel Ideas That Balance Fun Comfort and Convenience Traveling with family can be a rewarding adventure, but it often comes with unique challenges. Balancing entertainment, comfort, and convenience is key to creating memorable trips for all ages. How to Make the Most of Nighttime Travel Experiences in Any City Nighttime offers a completely different perspective on the cityscape. From shimmering lights reflecting on riverbanks to quiet streets revealing hidden cafes and bars, traveling at night can be both magical and practical. Researchers Uncover Layout of 7th-Century Imperial Ritual Site in Asuka Archaeologists have uncovered new details about the remains of an ancient building in Nara Prefecture’s Asuka area, believed to have been used by emperors for imperial ceremonies more than 1,300 years ago.

Unknown 14 hours ago

Sports

Premier League buildup, WSL updates and more – matchday live

Join us for news, discussion and previews before the day’s action gets under way

Alex Reid (now) and John Brewin (earlier) 14 hours ago

Politics

A lawsuit blooms in Plymouth as homeowner battles HOA over her naturally planted yard

When Bonnie Scott started planning the yard of her new home in the Churchill Farms subdivision off of County Road 24 in Plymouth, she thought it might one day become a neighborhood gathering place for people and animals alike. She wanted to attract lightning bugs, frogs and wood ducks. She hired a company to install a meadow of low-growing grasses in the front and tall, swaying prairie natives in the back. Three years after she bought the house, the property has become a focal point in the neighborhood, but not in the way Scott wanted. People have driven over the yard and mowed it without her permission. Scott enlisted the police and a private detective to find the offenders — and now, some neighbors stay away from her property. Last month, the conflict escalated. Scott sued the Churchill Farms Homeowners Association, asking a court to rule that fines it has levied against her are unenforceable because of state law. Scott’s argument could test the limits of that law, which says cities and towns can’t restrict native landscaping — but it says nothing about HOAs. “Nobody wins in a lawsuit,” she said. “But at this point, that law needs to be better.” The Churchill Farms HOA answered in court, writing that Scott maintained her yard in an “unsightly manner” to create “a condition which is indecent or offensive to the senses.” Scott had been fined $250 by the HOA as of that filing, which asks the court to foreclose on her home, if necessary, to pay those fees and the HOA’s legal costs. “We’ve always wanted to resolve this from the beginning, but we still want to resolve this amicably,” said Gerard Bodell, the president of the HOA. Churchill Farms is a community of 103 houses with tightly trimmed yards, three-car garages and ponds ringed with native plants. On a recent fall morning, a red-winged blackbird was making a racket next to Scott’s screened back porch.

Chloe Johnson 14 hours ago

Science

Unleash the rockhounds. It’s the season to hunt the Lake Superior shore for colorful agates

With the gales of November rolling in, anyone ready to bundle up in raincoats and waterproof boots may have luck spotting Lake Superior agates and other cool rocks. Late-fall weather already whipped waves up to 14 feet high logged near Grand Marais this month. Storms and churning water can tumble new specimens of Minnesota’s state gemstone onto lakeshores and riverbanks. Lake Superior agates often feature a brownish-red exterior that may be pitted and slightly translucent. They’re easiest to spot when they’re wet and the sun has come out, illuminating their distinctive interior bands that can be clear, white, slate-grey, orange or red. Agates formed in the vesicles (gas bubbles) of lava that spewed along the North Shore more than a billion years ago during the Midcontinent Rift. While the volcanic forces didn’t manage to split what’s now North America, it left behind dramatic ledges and cliffs of basalt and rhyolite along what’s now Lake Superior. As water with trace minerals seeped into the gas bubbles, they crystallized into agates. Differing levels of iron gives the agates their warm colors while trace amounts of copper can add bluish tones. Ice age glaciers ground across Minnesota about 10,000 to 15,000 years ago, breaking apart the volcanic rock and scattering the more durable agates. The highest concentration of them can be found in northeastern Minnesota and into central Minnesota. They are also present in southern Minnesota, and parts of Iowa. The largest specimens can weigh more than 20 pounds. Places to look for agates include public beaches along Lake Superior (but not those on state park land or within scientific and natural areas); public parks along rivers and streams; and former gravel pits, such as the Soo Line Pit in Moose Lake. A permit is required for the latter through the Moose Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. Permission is also required for searching any private property. You can also admire Minnesota’s agates at the Science Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul and Beaver Bay Agate Shop & Museum on the North Shore, which is the nation’s oldest rock shop with more than 75 years in business. Rock shops around the state and rock and mineral clubs can also answer questions and share rockhounding tips.

Unknown 14 hours ago

Sports

Crystal Palace v Brighton, Brentford v Newcastle and more: Premier League clockwatch – live

Join our writers for the latest updates as rivals meet at Selhurst Park while Leeds go to Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa host Bournemouth

John Brewin (now) and Tom Bassam (later) 14 hours ago

World

Minister inargurated AIOU Sheikhupura campus

Advertisement - ISLAMABAD, Nov 09 (APP): Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain inaugurated the Sheikhupura Regional Campus of Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU). Addressing the ceremony, Minister stated that the establishment of the new campus will provide exceptional convenience for local students, especially girls in pursuing higher education. “This is indeed a welcome development that will open doors of learning for the youth of Sheikhupura and its surrounding areas,” the Minister remarked. He also emphasized the importance of distance education in Pakistan as well as in the whole world, which is increasing day by day, said a press release here on Sunday. He underscored that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the usefulness of the distance learning system became evident to the entire world and as a result the University’s enrollment has now reached 1.2 million students. The Federal Minister lauded the remarkable progress achieved by AIOU under the dynamic leadership of Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Nasir Mahmood, noting that the University has expanded its reach and strengthened its role in promoting inclusive education across the country. Meanwhile, he said that government was taking serious steps to stabilize the economy and the nation is moving steadily towards self-reliance. “Our policies are being appreciated internationally, and we are successfully reducing our dependence on the IMF,” he added. Rana Tanveer Hussain also suggested launching computer classes at the Sheikhupura Regional Campus, saying, “I request the Vice Chancellor to initiate computer classes here so that student enrollment may further increase and the youth may have access to modern educational opportunities.” Addressing the ceremony, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr Nasir Mahmood said that the number of AIOU students in Sheikhupura has already exceeded 10,000, which is still less compared to the potential and facilities available. He reaffirmed that the University’s mission is to ensure that every child in this region is enlightened with the light of knowledge and benefits fully from AIOU’s academic services. Prof. Dr Nasir Mahmood appreciated the continuous support of the government and expressed gratitude to the Federal Minister for gracing the event. He reiterated AIOU’s commitment to expanding educational access, especially for women and underprivileged segments of society through its vast network of regional campuses and innovative distance learning programs. The event was attended by university officials, faculty members, students and a large number of local dignitaries, who appreciated AIOU’s efforts to make quality education accessible at the doorstep of every citizen.

Asif Jalal 14 hours ago

World

Remembrance Sunday captured in poignant images as nation remembers

Wales has paid tribute to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice on Remembrance Day. Services have been held up and down the country, as crowds have gathered to pay their respects to servicemen and women who lost their lives in conflict. In Cardiff, the national remembrance service was held at Alexandra Gardens at Cathays Park, Cardiff, attended by First Minister, Eluned Morgan, who laid a wreath. In Swansea, a gathering was held at the Cenotaph on Sunday morning, and In Newport, crowds came together for a service at Clarence Place. Meanwhile, in London, King Charles, The Princess of Wales, Prime Minister Keir Starmer and former prime ministers were all pictured in attendance at the service. As Parliament's Big Ben bell tolled 11am, thousands of military personnel, veterans and members of the public gathered in central London as the nation fell still for two minutes of silence, broken by a single artillery blast and Royal Marines buglers sounding "The Last Post." The 76-year-old king, dressed in the uniform of an army field marshal, laid a wreath of red paper poppies on a black background at the base of the Cenotaph war memorial. Erected over a century ago to honour the British and allied troops killed in World War I, it has become the focus of annual ceremonies for members of military and civilian services killed in that war and subsequent conflicts. The national ceremony of remembrance is held every year on the nearest Sunday to the anniversary of the end of World War I on November 11, 1918, at 11 am.

Robert Dalling 14 hours ago

Politics

KP to launch measles and rubella vaccination campaign in schools

Advertisement - PESHAWAR, Nov 09 (APP): The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has decided to launch a Measles and Rubella (MR) vaccination campaign across both public and private schools in the province. According to the provincial health department on Sunday, the campaign will run from November 17 to November 28, 2025, targeting children aged six months to five years for vaccination against measles and rubella. The education department stated that health teams will visit public and private educational institutions in Peshawar district during the campaign to ensure all eligible children are vaccinated. Follow-up activities will also be carried out to guarantee complete coverage. Furthermore, all public and private schools and institutions have been directed to facilitate the vaccination teams and cooperate with the health department. Authorities warned that legal action will be taken against private schools that refuse to allow vaccination during the campaign, in accordance with relevant laws.

Asif Jalal 14 hours ago

World

U.S acting ambassador visits Golra Railway station

ISLAMABAD, Nov 09 (APP): U.S. Acting Ambassador to Pakistan Natalie Baker on Sunday paid a special visit to the historic Golra Railway Station and Railway Museum. Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi briefed the visiting envoy on the site’s cultural and historical significance as well as its recent up-gradation. During the visit, the minister gave Ambassador Baker a detailed tour of the Golra Station, the Quaid-e-Azam Saloon, and the heritage museum, which houses vintage locomotives, carriages, and railway equipment dating back to the 19th and 20th centuries. The U.S made railway machinery and instruments on display particularly drew the ambassador’s attention. Abbasi also apprised the envoy of the reforms and modernization initiatives being implemented in Pakistan Railways under his leadership. He said major railway stations in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Karachi, and Faisalabad have been upgraded and digitized in line with international standards, while Pakistan’s first-ever “Safe and Smart Railway Station” has been established in Rawalpindi. The ambassador praised the minister’s reform vision, describing Hanif Abbasi as a true “railway reformist” who is transforming the institution along modern lines. Highlighting the importance of the rail sector, the minister said Pakistan Railways is not only a vital national asset but also a symbol of the country’s cultural heritage and international connectivity. The visit left a lasting impression on Ambassador Baker, who admired the beauty, preservation, and historical charm of the Golra Railway Station.

Nnps Desk 14 hours ago

Business

Zubair Ghangra nominated as a Member of District Human Rights Committee Hyderabad

Advertisement - HYDERABAD, Nov 09 (APP): Another remarkable achievement for the Hyderabad SITE Association of Trade & Industry, the true representative body of Hyderabad’s industrial sector. The Chairman of HSATI, Zubair Ghangra, has been nominated as a Member of the District Human Rights Committee Hyderabad by the Human Rights Department, Government of Sindh. According to the notification issued by the Human Rights Department, Government of Sindh, dated 7th November 2025, the committee has been formed to promote and safeguard human rights and to monitor and prevent any violations at the district level. The committee will be chaired by the Deputy Commissioner Hyderabad, while its members include the Senior Superintendent of Police, Superintendent of Prison, and District Officers of Education, Health, Women Development, and Social Welfare Departments, among other representatives from various sectors. On this occasion, Chairman HSATI Mr. Zubair Ghangra expressed his gratitude to the Government of Sindh and the Human Rights Department for reposing their trust in the representatives of trade and industry. He stated that “the protection of human rights is not only a governmental obligation but also a social, moral, and civic responsibility of every citizen.” Mr. Ghangra further stated that he would utilize this important platform to put forward constructive proposals and take practical steps for the welfare of industrial workers, social empowerment of women, and provision of basic facilities to citizens. He emphasized that industrial institutions do not merely generate employment but also play a crucial role in promoting human dignity, equality, and a culture of social welfare. He assured that the Hyderabad SITE Association will continue to extend full cooperation with the Government of Sindh in all initiatives aimed at social justice, community welfare, and sustainable human development. On this proud occasion, the Patron-in-Chief, office bearers, members of the Managing Committee, and the General Body of HSATI congratulated Chairman Zubair Ghangra on this prestigious recognition. They stated that this is not only a personal success for him but also a matter of great pride for the entire industrial community of Hyderabad. His nomination is a clear acknowledgment of the growing role of the business and industrial community in the process of social and human development. The Hyderabad SITE Association of Trade & Industry reaffirms its commitment to continue serving the industrial sector and contributing to the progress and prosperity of Hyderabad with the same dedication and spirit.

Asif Jalal 14 hours ago

Politics

What a reporter found when she investigated US military strikes on Venezuelan drug boats

Regina Garcia Cano was the reporter behind The Associated Press’ story that provided the first comprehensive account and identification of some of the men killed in recent U.S. military strikes on alleged drug-smuggling boats. In dozens of interviews in villages on Venezuela’s breathtaking northeastern coast, from which some of the boats departed, residents and relatives told Garcia Cano the dead men had indeed been running drugs but were not narco-terrorists, as alleged by the Trump administration, or leaders of a cartel or gang. Most of the nine men were crewing such craft for the first or second time, making at least $500 per trip, residents and relatives said. The four dead men included a fisherman, a down-on-his-luck bus driver, a former military cadet and a local crime boss. Others included laborers and a motorcycle driver. This is an interview of Garcia Cano by Del Quentin Wilber, her editor on the story. I visited Venezuela’s Paria Peninsula in the days after the U.S. military’s first strike. I arrived with the goal of identifying the 11 men killed, and I left with an understanding of the area’s dynamics but without solid names. People were too afraid to speak up. My flight back to Caracas was still on the runway when I had already decided that I would be returning to the area within weeks. I am determined to identify as many of the men as possible due to the conflicting claims of the U.S. and Venezuelan governments about the military operation. The U.S. government has released no information about the dead men, and the Venezuelan government has been just as circumspect. AP video journalist Juan Arraez and I faced several challenges in reporting this story, chief among them were sources' very real fears of being punished — particularly by the Venezuelan government — for speaking to reporters. Repression is not new in Venezuela, but the government of President Nicolás Maduro has intensified it since last year's presidential election, when ruling-party loyalists declared him the winner despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. More than 2,000 people were detained in the days after the election, some over over social media posts critical of the government. The relatives of some of the men killed in the strikes were especially fearful of speaking to AP because police and state intelligence agents searched their homes shortly after their loved ones' deaths. In addition to fear, I saw stifling poverty throughout the trip. Shuttered businesses, abandoned homes, very long lines of vehicles and motorcycles waiting for fuel, and crumbling infrastructure. I also got to admire the breathtaking natural beauty of Venezuela. We talked with several people in multiple communities who knew the men at different stages of their lives. We used social media posts and publicly available information to corroborate some of the information. The lack of information has affected the lives of everyone in these villages. Relatives have not been able to properly mourn loved ones, even though they know they died, because the government won't confirm the deaths and might punish them if they hold a funeral. I know how important mourning can be. I’ve lost loved ones in recent years, and mourning rituals helped make sense of each loss. These families may never get that chance. Relatives of some of the men expressed anguish over what they described as an ambiguous loss.

Regina Garcia Cano 14 hours ago

Technology

Pak Navy assumes guard duties at Iqbal’s Mausoleum

LAHORE, Nov 09 (APP): An impressive Change of Guard Ceremony was held at the mausoleum of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal as the nation celebrated the 148th birth anniversary of Mufakkir-e-Pakistan, the visionary behind the ideology of an independent Muslim state in the subcontinent. A smartly attired contingent of Pakistan Navy took over guard duties from Pakistan Rangers (Punjab), said a news release issued by Directorate General Public Relations (Pak Navy) on Sunday. Commander Central Punjab of Pakistan Navy, Rear Admiral Sohail Ahmad Azmie graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Commander Central Punjab laid a floral wreath at the mausoleum on behalf of Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf as well as officers, sailors and civilians of Pakistan Navy and offered Fateha. The Chief Guest also recorded his remarks in the visitor’s book, paying rich tribute to the great poet and philosopher. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries, members of the media, and a large number of the general public.

Nnps Desk 14 hours ago

Politics

Speaker Bagbin elected President of African Parliamentarians Network Against Corruption

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has been elected President of the African Parliamentarians Network Against Corruption (APNAC) at the organisation’s 9th Biennial General Meeting held in Accra last week. Mr. Bagbin accepted the continental role and pledged to promote integrity in public life and support Africa’s collective fight against corruption. The election comes a few weeks after the Speaker was appointed to the Inter-Parliamentary Union’s (IPU) Task Force on the peaceful resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, joining seven other parliamentarians from around the world. In his acceptance remarks, Mr. Bagbin commended the outgoing President and Board Members of APNAC for their service, describing their leadership as a firm foundation for the new administration. “The Network remains thankful for their dedication, collective wisdom, and lasting contribution,” he said. The Speaker pledged to work closely with legislators across Africa to advance APNAC’s objectives, noting that progress in the fight against corruption would depend on unity and cooperation among member parliaments. “Collective effort is vital to strengthening parliaments, improving accountability, and building a continent where integrity is upheld as a standard practice,” Mr. Bagbin stated. The IPU President, in an earlier statement, said Mr. Bagbin’s “integrity, impartiality, and ability to build trust with all parties” informed his appointment to the Russia-Ukraine peace Task Force. The IPU Task Force, which was established in March 2022, has so far held more than thirteen meetings and conducted diplomatic missions to Kyiv and Moscow. As part of his duties, Mr. Bagbin will attend in-person meetings during IPU Assemblies and take part in hearings and discussions with both Ukrainian and Russian parliamentary delegations. The African Parliamentarians Network Against Corruption is a continental body that brings together legislators dedicated to tackling corruption through parliamentary oversight, policy reform, and institutional accountability. DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited. DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Ghana News 14 hours ago

Sports

ATP Finals tennis: Carlos Alcaraz v Alex de Minaur – live

The season-ending tournament begins in Turin with the world No 2 taking on Australia’s Alex de Minaur. Join Daniel Harris for the latest

Daniel Harris 14 hours ago

Politics

King Charles and senior politicians lead UK Remembrance Sunday service at Cenotaph – live

Two-minute silence held at 11am GMT, with commemorations also taking place across the UK, including in Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast

Yohannes Lowe 14 hours ago

Health

Sweet-flavoured traps: How nicotine pouches are hooking the young

Advertisement - ISLAMABAD, Nov 09 (APP): Sleek tins, fruity flavours and a promise of “smoke-free relief” are pulling a growing number of young Pakistanis into a quiet addiction, nicotine pouches. Small white packets tucked between the gum and lip, they deliver a sharp dose of nicotine without smell or ash, and are rapidly becoming a daily habit among teenagers and young adults. Recent studies show use of nicotine pouches among 16- to 24-year-olds has tripled globally since 2022, from under one percent to 3.6 percent in 2024. Experts say Pakistan is following the same path, with shops and online sellers offering the pouches freely, no age limits, no warnings. Zar Wali, a cobbler in Islamabad who doubles as a street vendor, says demand is soaring when questioned by APP how this addiction is growing. “A 20-pouch tin costs around Rs 250 to 300. Brands like Velo, Zyn and Loop are popular mint, coffee, berry, whatever you want,” he said. “People buy them every day.” Each pouch contains 3–14 milligrams of nicotine, absorbed through the mouth’s soft tissues. One lasts about an hour but many users go through an entire tin daily. “It costs me Rs 300 a day, but I can’t stop now,” said Murtaza alias Sherry, a barber from Pandorian, Islamabad. “It gives a stronger kick than cigarettes, and no one even notices, not even at work.” Health experts warn the absence of smoke does not make these products safe. “They cause gum irritation, swelling and mouth sores,” said Dr Farah Malik, a dental surgeon in Islamabad, in response to an APP query. “Long-term use damages soft tissues, leading to gum disease, oral infections and even tooth loss.” Some users face graver consequences. Subhan, a private driver from Rawalpindi, started using the pouches to quit smoking. Within months, he was addicted. “I used one every hour,” he said. “Later, doctors told me I had pancreatic cancer. Surgery cost me over Rs 2.5 million, and I’m still on chemotherapy.” Dr Ateeq ur Rehman, a cancer specialist in Islamabad, talking to APP said pancreatic cancer has a survival rate of less than 10 percent when detected late. While there is no proven link between nicotine pouches and pancreatic cancer, he warned prolonged exposure to nicotine can still harm major organs. “Nicotine is toxic,” he said. “It raises blood pressure, affects the heart, liver and pancreas, and disrupts cell function. Continuous intake — even through smokeless products — increases the risk of chronic disease and possibly cancer.” Pakistan’s tobacco laws ban the sale of cigarettes to anyone under 18, but nicotine pouches escape scrutiny because they are not classified as tobacco products. “It’s a dangerous loophole,” said a senior official at the Tobacco Control Cell. “These contain pure nicotine — the same addictive chemical as in cigarettes — yet children can buy them freely.” Globally, regulators are starting to act. In the United Kingdom, health groups such as Action on Smoking and Health have called for strict packaging and age limits. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration is reviewing rules after a surge in teenage use. Doctors and educators in Pakistan warn that without awareness campaigns and clear laws, the problem could escalate fast. “It’s like naswar or cigarettes the addiction starts quietly but becomes hard to escape,” said Dr Malik. “This one just hides behind a modern image.” A recent national survey in Pakistan of 14,232 children aged 10-16 found that 3.4 percent of boys and 2.7 percent of girls reported having used nicotine pouches, a higher share than those who reported smoking cigarettes. Nearly one?third of respondents said they would accept a nicotine pouch if offered by a friend, and roughly one in three said they found it “easy” to buy such products. A separate point-of-sale survey found that although nicotine-pouch outlets comprised just 7.9 percent of stores across nine Pakistani districts, nearly 12 percent of those displayed dedicated advertising and many placed the products within reach of children. This underlines how the availability and social normalisation of pouches are contributing to early uptake among youth a worrying indicator of how widespread the “modern alternative” has become. As cases of tobacco-related illness rise, experts fear this new form of “smokeless addiction” could spread unchecked — unless authorities move quickly to curb access and inform the public.

Asif Jalal 14 hours ago