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News from November 17, 2025

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Tripura raises target to create 1.35 lakh ‘Lakhpati Didis’ in 2025–26
Politics

Tripura raises target to create 1.35 lakh ‘Lakhpati Didis’ in 2025–26

Agartala, Nov 17: The Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM) has revised its target to make 1.35 lakh women 'Lakhpati Didis' during the current financial year, an official said on Monday. The decision was taken at a state-level steering committee meeting held at the civil secretariat under the chairmanship of state Rural Development Department Secretary Abhishek Singh on November 15. Tarit Kanti Chakma, the chief executive officer (CEO) of Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM), an initiative of the Rural Development Department, said that the target to make 1.08 lakh women 'Lakhpati Didis' has been achieved, and hence, the target has been revised to 1.35 lakh. Necessary initiatives will be taken and the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) will be informed, he said. Chief Minister Manik Saha on October 25 disbursed Rs 100 crore to 1,00,000 'Lakhpati Didis' to augment their activities, he said, adding that South Tripura district has the maximum number of 'Lakhpati Didis' at 21,898. A 'Lakhpati Didi' is a self-help group member with an annual household income exceeding Rs 1 lakh. It is a central government initiative with the objective of improving the livelihoods of poor rural households in the country. PTI

The Assam Tribune
Unveiling the Future of Retail: $575M ‘The Central’ Landmark Mall Set to Transform Bangkok’s Shopping Landscape
World

Unveiling the Future of Retail: $575M ‘The Central’ Landmark Mall Set to Transform Bangkok’s Shopping Landscape

Press play to listen to this content Unveiling the Future of Retail: $575M ‘The Central’ Landmark Mall Set to Transform Bangkok’s Shopping Landscape. central pattana, a leading retail and property development company based in thailand, has recently publicized plans for a new shopping mall project in bangkok. the project, named “the central,” comes with a hefty price tag of $575 million and is slated to become the city’s new landmark shopping center in the northern district. promising a mix of global brands and an array of retail experiences, the central is poised to redefine the retail landscape of northern bangkok. the central will be situated in the bustling northern central business district of bangkok, stretching over an impressive 7851 square meters. the strategic location places the mall between vibhavadi rangsit road and phahon yothin road, two major thoroughfares in the city. the grand opening of the high-profile establishment is scheduled for the last quarter of next year. chanavat uahwatanasakul, the president of retail and development at central pattana, spoke enthusiastically about the project. he emphasized that the central will carry forward the company’s legacy of top-tier shopping centers to the northern part of the city. uahwatanasakul also spoke of the project as representing a significant step in urban evolution, fusing commerce, creativity, and community into a globally acclaimed experience. he envisions the new project as a catalyst for the next phase of retail and cultural development, potentially catapulting bangkok into the league of the world’s most dynamic and liveable cities. the central aims to provide seamless accessibility by connecting to major transportation services like the bts, mrt, and the don mueang international airport. furthermore, it expects to draw in a large number of consumers from a 2.6 million-strong catchment area. according to central pattana, the consumers in this local catchment boast a purchasing power that is 2.3 times higher than the city’s average. the company also predicts retail sales, based on gross leasable area, to outperform other city malls by 45 per cent. visitor frequency is expected to be twice that of the city’s average. the project is conceptualized under the theme “flagship-reimagined destination,” aiming to attract global retailers seeking to launch flagship stores. the architectural design and interior layout have been meticulously planned to cater to this demand. juthatham chirathivat, head of business at central pattana, elaborates that the central is much more than a shopping center. it is envisaged as a curated community for the new generation, marrying global design excellence with thai hospitality. he believes that this unique blend of multi-generational living, flagship retail, and sustainable innovation will significantly shape the future of bangkok. questions & answers. what is the projected visitor frequency at the central? the projected visitor frequency at the central is expected to be twice the average of bangkok city. what is the concept behind the design of the central? the central is designed under the theme “flagship-reimagined destination,” aiming to cater to global retailers planning to establish their flagship stores. who are the key people involved in the development of the central? the key people involved in the development of the central are chanavat uahwatanasakul, the president of retail and development at central pattana, and juthatham chirathivat, the head of business at central pattana.

Mei Ling Tan
Singer Karina Pasian slammed over outfit during US national anthem at first-ever NFL game in Spain
Sports

Singer Karina Pasian slammed over outfit during US national anthem at first-ever NFL game in Spain

NFL fans were left outraged by the rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner before Sunday’s international game in Madrid. Ahead of kickoff at the international game between the Washington Commanders and Miami Dolphins at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium for the first-ever NFL game hosted in Spain, American pop singer Karina Pasian performed the US anthem, followed by the Madrid Marine Infantry Group Band’s rendition of the Spanish national anthem. Pasian wore a black mini dress with a deep cowl neckline, paired with thigh-high stockings, garters, and long gloves that reached over her elbows during her performance. However, the 34-year-old Grammy-nominated singer’s attire drew sharp criticism from NFL fans, who commented under a video of her performance posted on X by the NFL that Pasian’s outfit overshadowed her vocals. “Nice, but why did she have to dress like a hooker?” wrote one commenter. “Great to see the sharing of sport and competition with other countries!! Karina’s rendition of the US national anthem was lovely, but why is she dressed like a hooker? Also very refreshing to see none of the players kneeling during the anthem (at least on camera),” one user boldly questioned. “The outfit was a bit inappropriate but her voice was beautiful,” another wrote. “Why is she dressed like a cabaret dancer? Takes away all solemnity from the anthem,” another added. “Who dresses like that to sing a national anthem. Zero home training. Shame,” said another Though some thought Pasian’s wardrobe missed the mark, the majority applauded her outstanding performance of the national anthem. “Not many people can sing that song well. She knocked it out of the park. Great job. Love it,” one user commented. “cool seeing her get that spotlight in madrid, first nfl game there needed a moment like that. anthem sounded clean and the crowd locked in right away,” one user commented. “Bringing her powerhouse vocals across the Atlantic … Karina Pasian,” wrote another. “Historic game, historic vocals. She delivered!” another added. Pasian — a New York City native now living in Madrid — was tapped to perform the anthem ahead of Sunday’s first-ever game in Spain. The Dolphins would beat the Commanders 16 – 13 in a stunning overtime win. At just 13, Pasian caught the eye of major record labels, including Def Jam, Interscope, and Bad Boy, and eventually signed with Def Jam in 2006. Her career includes a Grammy nomination for “Can’t Find the Words” in the Best Contemporary R&B category and a 2007 performance at the White House for President George W. Bush during Black Music Month.

Richard Pollina
SpaceX launches NASA’s Sentinel-6B satellite to track global sea-level changes
Technology

SpaceX launches NASA’s Sentinel-6B satellite to track global sea-level changes

New Delhi, Nov 17: SpaceX on Monday launched NASA’s Sentinel-6B satellite aimed at monitoring sea level change, the US space agency said.Sentinel-6B is an Earth-observing satellite jointly developed by NASA and US and European partners to observe the ocean and measure sea level rise.The satellite will build on over 30 years of sea level data to improve weather forecasts. It will help improve coastal planning, protect critical infrastructure, and advance weather forecasts.“Liftoff! The latest in a long line of satellites to monitor sea level change, Sentinel-6B, successfully launched at 12:21 am ET (10:55 AM IST) on Monday, from Vandenberg Space Force Base,” NASA said in a post on social media platform X.“This is the second Sentinel-6 satellite Falcon 9 launched after delivering the Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich satellite to orbit in November 2020. Together, the two spacecraft will measure sea levels, improve forecasts of ocean currents as well as wind and wave conditions, and enhance both short- and long-term weather predictions,” added SpaceX.Sentinel-6B will deliver data on about 90 per cent of Earth’s ocean, providing direct benefits to humanity.The data is key to helping improve public safety, city planning, and protecting commercial and defense interests.Data from the satellite will also help NASA prepare for the next phase of space exploration, including safer reentry of astronauts returning from Artemis missions.Data collected by the mission can help city planners, as well as local and state governments, to make informed decisions on protecting coastal infrastructure, real estate, and energy facilities.The satellite’s sea level data also improves meteorologists’ weather predictions, which are critical to commercial and recreational navigation, forecasts of hurricane development, including the likelihood of storm intensification, which can aid disaster preparedness and response.Data from Sentinel-6B will better protect coastal military installations from such events as nuisance flooding while aiding national defense efforts by providing crucial information about weather and ocean conditions. --IANS

The Assam Tribune
Why window tint matters for home and car: Comfort, privacy and protection every Kiwi should consider
Technology

Why window tint matters for home and car: Comfort, privacy and protection every Kiwi should consider

Whether you’re driving around or relaxing at home, comfort and privacy matter. With New Zealand’s strong UV levels and growing focus on energy efficiency, more homeowners and motorists are turning to professional window tinting – not just for style, but for smarter living. Window tinting has come a long way from being “just a dark film”. Modern films offer year-round protection, UV defence, and energy savings, making it one of the most cost-effective upgrades for homes and vehicles alike. Here’s why window tinting deserves a spot on your improvement list. Beat the heat and enjoy a cooler space New Zealand’s summers are getting warmer, and both homes and cars can quickly turn into hotboxes. Window tint films work as a heat-rejection barrier, significantly reducing solar gain. Keeps interior spaces cooler without blasting the air-con Helps reduce energy bills for homes Improves driving comfort, especially on long Auckland motorway trips For households, that means a more pleasant living environment and fewer temperature spikes during peak summer hours. For vehicles, it means stepping into a cooler cabin instead of overheating leather seats. Stay warmer in winter thanks to TSER Efficiency Window tint isn’t just for sunny days. Modern films with high TSER (Total Solar Energy Rejection) also help retain warmth during colder months by improving insulation and reducing heat loss through the glass. Even clear energy-efficient films can help: Keep warmth inside during winter Reduce drafts and cold-glass effect Improve heating efficiency Lower power bills year-round This makes tinting a smart investment for Auckland’s variable climate – comfort in summer, warmth in winter, savings all year long. UV protection for skin and interiors We all know how harsh the sun can be, and especially in New Zealand with high UV reading. Window tint helps block up to 99 per cent of harmful UV rays, helping protect: Your skin from long-term UV exposure Car upholstery from cracking and fading Home furnishings like curtains, flooring, and soft furnishings from colour fading Think of tinting as sunscreen, but for your home and vehicle. Privacy without compromising style Whether you’re driving around Botany or relaxing at home in Howick, privacy gives peace of mind. Car tint benefits Helps prevent prying eyes from looking into your vehicle Adds a sleek, clean finish – stylish without being flashy Home tint benefits Allows natural light in while offering daytime privacy Perfect for street-facing windows and busy neighbourhoods Tinting gives you privacy without needing heavy curtains or blinds during daylight. Reduce glare for safer driving and comfortable living From low-sun winter mornings to summer sunsets across New Zealand, glare can be a real issue. Tinting reduces harsh light, making screen use and driving easier and safer. Improved road visibility Less strain on your eyes More comfortable working-from-home or movie-night environment Energy efficient and cost-effective With rising power costs, Kiwi households are looking for smarter ways to boost efficiency. Window film helps regulate indoor temperature, meaning less reliance on heaters and air con. This small upgrade can lead to meaningful energy savings over time. Adds value to vehicles and homes Home buyers and car shoppers appreciate comfort, energy efficiency, and modern finishes. A professionally tinted home or car presents well – simple uplift, long-term benefit. Plus, tint helps maintain interior condition, preserving value over the years. Professional installation vs DIY While DIY kits exist, they rarely match professional quality or durability. Proper installation ensures: No bubbles or peeling edges Even finish and correct tint level Films suited for New Zealand regulations and glass types At HLWrap, we use premium films and ensure they comply with NZTA legal tint rules for vehicles and safety glass standards for homes. Final thoughts: Window tinting isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s a smart investment in comfort, privacy, and protection. From UV defence and heat control to better living and driving comfort, tinting offers everyday benefits for modern New Zealand lifestyles. Whether you’re upgrading the family SUV or improving sun protection at home, professional tinting provides noticeable results from day one. About HLWrap HLWrap is an Auckland-based specialist in: Car window tinting Home and commercial window film Paint Protection Film (PPF) Vinyl wraps and signage based in East Tāmaki and servicing Auckland, we pride ourselves on quality craftsmanship and premium film technology, delivering comfort, style, and protection for Kiwi homes and cars. East Tāmaki, Auckland https://hlwrap.co.nz 02108184248 info@hlwrap.co.nz

Times Team
Aadhaar biometric locking and unlocking has become easier, the new Aadhaar app has arrived.
Technology

Aadhaar biometric locking and unlocking has become easier, the new Aadhaar app has arrived.

Aadhaar card is essential for every Indian citizen. It is used for everything from banking to purchasing a SIM card. Many cyber fraudsters also defraud people by creating fake biometrics. Lock Biometrics on Aadhaar Aadhaar card holders can lock their Aadhaar number’s biometrics to protect against such fraud or loss. Locking and unlocking biometrics is now very easy, and you can use an app to do so. The new Aadhaar app is here. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has launched a new Aadhaar app, details of which have already been shared in a post. The app is now available on the Play Store and App Store. How to lock biometrics? The new Aadhaar app allows Aadhaar number holders to lock their biometrics. Locking and unlocking biometrics is very easy. In the new Aadhaar app, scroll down to the bottom and find the lock/unlock option. These will be the benefits: UIDAI has already announced that the new Aadhaar app will include new features. It will offer enhanced security, easier access, and a completely paperless experience. The post also provides a link for Android and iOS users to download the new Aadhaar app. Benefits of the mobile app The Aadhaar card can be displayed directly on the mobile app. The security of the date of birth and Aadhaar number has been improved. The date of birth can be hidden. What is an Aadhaar card? The Aadhaar number is generated by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). The Aadhaar card contains a unique 12-digit number that provides unique identity information for every Indian. Read More: Public Holiday: All Schools, colleges and offices will remain closed on November 23 and 24 due to public holiday, know the reason

Shyamu Maurya
Rakuten Shatters Records with Stellar Q3 Performance: Returns to Profit After Six-Year Hiatus
Business

Rakuten Shatters Records with Stellar Q3 Performance: Returns to Profit After Six-Year Hiatus

Press play to listen to this content Rakuten Shatters Records with Stellar Q3 Performance: Returns to Profit After Six-Year Hiatus. after a six-year hiatus, rakuten, a well-known e-commerce platform in japan , has made a successful return to profitability. this significant achievement is attributed to the consistent growth seen across all primary business sectors and an all-time high revenue figure reported in the third quarter. during this year’s third quarter, rakuten’s consolidated revenue saw an increase of 10.9% compared to the previous year, hitting a milestone of us$4 billion. this marks the highest level of q3 revenue ever reported by the company. in terms of ebitda (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation), rakuten reported a record-breaking figure of $767 million. the company also managed to generate $8 million in operating profits throughout the first nine months of this fiscal year. rakuten’s domestic e-commerce wing recorded a 14.5% increase in gross merchandise sales, amounting to $11 billion. this increase was primarily fuelled by a sustained demand for services. the company’s international business unit also reported favourable figures. its revenue increased by 5.4% year on year, reaching $486.9 million, and its operating income rose sharply by 78.8% to $4.2 million. several factors contributed to this growth, including increased sales of devices and content through rakuten kobo, a spike in communications and advertising revenue from rakuten viber, and a decrease in losses in the international advertising business. rakuten’s improved financial stability and better credit metrics have positively impacted its rating outlook. the firm’s objective is to further improve its credit while maintaining medium-term financial stability. as explained by the company, its strategy involves building a stable financial base and enhancing its corporate value through cautious capital allocation. questions & answers. what led to rakuten’s return to operating profit after six years? rakuten’s return to profitability can be attributed to the consistent growth across all major business sectors and record-breaking revenue in the third quarter of this fiscal year. what factors contributed to the company’s growth? the growth was due to increased sales of devices and content through rakuten kobo, higher communications and advertising revenue from rakuten viber, and a decrease in losses in the international advertising business. what is rakuten’s strategy for maintaining its financial stability? rakuten plans to maintain its financial stability by enhancing its credit further, constructing a stable financial base, and increasing corporate value through judicious capital allocation.

Mei Ling Tan
China’s Economy Under Pressure: Factory Output And Retail Sales Hit Yearly Lows
Business

China’s Economy Under Pressure: Factory Output And Retail Sales Hit Yearly Lows

Press play to listen to this content China’s Economy Under Pressure: Factory Output And Retail Sales Hit Yearly Lows. october witnessed the slowest growth in china’s factory output and retail sales in more than a year, applying added pressure on policymakers to overhaul the nation’s $19 trillion export-driven economy. increasing supply and demand strains are poised to further hinder growth. for many years, those accountable for maintaining the momentum of the world’s second-largest economy had the choice of stimulating its massive industrial complex to enhance exports if domestic consumer spending dwindled. alternatively, they could delve into public funds to finance gdp-boosting infrastructure projects. however, the tariff war initiated by former us president donald trump underscores the manufacturing behemoth’s dependency on the world’s most extensive consumer market. there are limits to how much growth the chinese economy can derive from constructing more industrial parks, power substations, and dams. the current state of affairs. the indicators released last friday provide little optimism for a rapid recovery. as each month’s data worsens, the call for reform becomes more critical. according to data from the national bureau of statistics (nbs), industrial output experienced a yearly growth of 4.9% in october. this marks the weakest annual growth since august 2024, compared to a 6.5% increase in september, falling short of the anticipated 5.5% surge. meanwhile, retail sales, a measure of consumption, saw a 2.9% expansion last month, which is also their slowest pace since last august. this decelerated from a 3.0% growth in september, albeit exceeding the projected gain of 2.8%. fred neumann, chief asia economist at hsbc, remarked, “china’s economy is facing pressures from all sides.” he believes that the robust support from exports in the recent quarters will be challenging to maintain into the next year, even if us import tariffs are now lower than earlier feared. policy implications and economic outlook. policymakers are aware of the need for change to rectify historical supply-demand imbalances, spur household consumption, and confront the enormous local government debt that complicates provinces’ self-sufficiency. however, they also understand that structural reform will be challenging and politically risky, particularly at a time when the trade war has heightened economic pressure. last week, separate data revealed that china’s exports unexpectedly collapsed in october. this is as manufacturers grapple to secure profits in other markets after months of front-loading intended to outpace trump’s tariff threats. contrary to expectations, china’s car sales also broke an eight-month growth streak. this is concerning, given that the fourth quarter is typically the strongest for auto sales, and the slump occurred despite an extra day due to a national holiday in october compared to 2024. questions & answers. what are the main challenges faced by the chinese economy? the chinese economy is currently grappling with a slower growth pace in factory output and retail sales, increased supply and demand strains, manufacturers’ struggle to stay profitable because of the tariff war, and an unexpected decline in car sales. what measures are needed to boost china’s economy? policymakers must address historical supply-demand imbalances, promote household consumption, and tackle the enormous local government debt. structural reform, while challenging and politically risky, is crucial to enhance the nation’s economic outlook. how has the trade war affected china’s economy? the trade war has underscored china’s dependency on the global consumer market and increased economic pressure, leading to an unexpected collapse in exports in october. manufacturers have been struggling to secure profits in other markets as they try to outpace tariff threats.

Mei Ling Tan
A Second Chance' supercut: When Popoy and Basha finally get their happy ending!
Technology

A Second Chance' supercut: When Popoy and Basha finally get their happy ending!

maryjhoanaaa said, “Since nasa ibang bansa ako, ang expectation ko baka ako lang ang manood sa sinehan ng #MeetGreetAndBye. Nagulat ako na marami akong kasamang nanood sa sinehan. First day of screening kahapon dito sa Australia. Supportive ang mga Pinoy. Congrats ulit sa Da Facs!” “Hindi rin papatalo yung isang cinema dito sa SoCal. Almost sold out na sila,” posted Team California on X. @leslie_gesell posted a photo on social media and said, “Last night after watching #MeetGreetAndBye here in Toronto with my mom and siblings. I was speechless after the movie, trying to absorb what we just watched and feeling ko parang bitin, I want to see it again.” Make sure to experience “Meet, Greet & Bye” in theaters, visit meetgreetandbye.com for more details. For additional information, follow Star Cinema on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. For other updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok, or visit www.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

Unknown
Days after Delhi blast, Army Chief's BIG statement on Operation Sindoor, warns Pakistan of...
World

Days after Delhi blast, Army Chief's BIG statement on Operation Sindoor, warns Pakistan of...

Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Monday reiterated that India will not tolerate terrorism while pursuing dialogue, asserting once again that "blood and water cannot flow together" and that talks cannot proceed alongside terror. He warned that if Pakistan attempts any misadventure, India is fully prepared to deliver a lesson on how a neighbour should act. Speaking at the Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2025 on Pakistan's state-sponsored terrorism and the recent car blast attack in Delhi, General Dwivedi said, "When that country sponsors terrorism, it's a concern for us. We talk about progress, but if anyone creates obstacles, we will have to take action. As far as the New Normal is concerned, we say blood and water cannot flow together, talks and terror cannot be together." "We are only saying that if they adopt peace, we will be fine with it. Till this happens, we will definitely respond to the terrorists and their masters. If someone tries to blackmail India, they should remember that today India is at a point where it will not be afraid of such blackmail," he said. Referring to Operation Sindoor, he described it as "just a trailer", adding, "The full picture hadn't even begun. The trailer finished in 88 hours. We are fully prepared for the future. If Pakistan does something, then we are ready to teach it a lesson on how a neighbour should behave." He emphasised that the operation underscored the need for swift decision-making, saying, "From Operation Sindoor, we learned that decision-making time is very short, so decisions must be made, and actions must be taken at every level. Secondly, integration is very important -- be it the Army, Air Force, Navy, CAPF, etc. The Army cannot fight alone; everyone comes together to give a strong fight. Today's war is multi-domain, so synergy is crucial." On the duration of future conflicts, he said, "We cannot say how long it will last. We must be prepared for the length of the war, even if it lasts four years." Stressing India's strengthened position, the Army Chief added, "In today's time, our deterrence is very strong... After 2019, when there came a huge change in our Constitution, there has been a major transformation in the situation in J&K." Recalling an incident of during his years in J&K, he said, "A woman came to me, when I was serving as the Commander of Northern Command, and told me that when we used to mark Independence Day, schools used to ask children to make a drawing of the national flag, but the children used to ask parents about which country's flag should they draw; this was the situation there. But now, political clarity has come. There has been a huge decline in terrorism." "Terrorism has also declined significantly. This year, 31 terrorists were killed, 61 per cent of whom were Pakistanis. Only one was recruited, and he was also caught... What I mean is that there are no stone-pelting incidents, no sloganeering, everything has stopped," he noted. The Army Chief said tourism has surged in Jammu and Kashmir and that "every parameter has changed in the past few years". He also pointed out that people who had earlier left the region due to the security situation now wish to return and work there. General Dwivedi highlighted the transformative role of Army Goodwill Schools in the Valley, saying their influence is such that "a large number of children want to join these educational institutions, which are currently being run by doctors, engineers and six of our own commissioned Army Officers". (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by DNA staff and is published from IANS)

IANS,Pm Ist
Sinner caps eventful year with ATP Finals triumph over great rival Alcaraz
Sports

Sinner caps eventful year with ATP Finals triumph over great rival Alcaraz

Turin, Italy - Jannik Sinner ended a turbulent season in the best possible fashion after seeing off Carlos Alcaraz in straight sets, 7-6 (7-4), 7-5, to retain his ATP Finals title in front of delighted fans in Turin on Sunday.The Italian brought the house down by winning the championship match tennis fans wanted to see, adding the prestigious year-ending tournament to the Australian Open title and his landmark triumph at Wimbledon this season.The 24-year-old also bounced back from a three-month ban which chopped out a large chunk of his season despite the World Anti-Doping Agency accepting that the Italian was accidentally contaminated with banned substance clostebol last year.

The Japan Times,Web Master
Rule Breakers review – rousingly feelgood real life story of Afghan girls’ robotics team
World

Rule Breakers review – rousingly feelgood real life story of Afghan girls’ robotics team

Based on a true story, Bill Guttentag’s rousing drama attests to the resilience of women who dare to dream despite draconian social strictures. The film follows Roya Mahboob (Nikohl Boosheri), a trailblazing coach and businesswoman in Stem (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) who assembles a robotics team of Afghan girls for international competitions. The young dreamers hail from different walks of life but they all share the same zest for engineering. They face the same dangers too; in a country where women are not encouraged or even allowed to pursue higher levels of education, their quest for medals sees opposition from their own families as well as public scorn from conservatives. Rule Breakers is at its most thrilling during the competition sequences, which splice together real-life documentary footage of the events with fictional re-enactments. (There’s even an appearance from Phoebe Waller-Bridge as a host.) A breathless enthusiasm thrums through the film, as the camera swirls around the young competitors, all energised by their love for science. These spaces are portrayed as a haven that encourages camaraderie rather than competitiveness, and in a world divided by military conflicts and war, they offer a utopiian vision of international collaboration and solidarity. When it comes to the darker aspects of the story, though, Rule Breakers is less assured. Except for minor scenes depicting the girls’ rejection for American visas, the film rarely grapples with the war in Afghanistan and its effects on women. From external funding to newspaper coverage, the film sets up a dichotomy between western support and domestic oppression, but this is a distinction that requires more political nuance considering the legacy of American interventionism in the region. While spirited in parts, the journey taken by this extraordinary robotics team deserves a more layered storytelling approach than that of a feelgood movie.

Phuong Le
Minister to outline Ireland’s CAP position at EU council
Politics

Minister to outline Ireland’s CAP position at EU council

Ireland's priorities for the next Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) beyond 2027 will be highlighted in Brussels today (Monday, November 17). Minister for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne will be representing Ireland at a meeting of the General Affairs Council (GAC). Along with EU member states preparing for the December meeting of the European Council, the meeting will discuss EU-UK relations and continue negotiations on the long-term EU budget or Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). The EU multi-annual budget (2028-34) will fund the next CAP and Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). Speaking ahead of the meeting, Minister Byrne outlined his position on the negotiations. "A ring-fenced and robust CAP and Common Fisheries Policy, with adequate funding, will be the foundation of European food security, competitiveness, and the EU’s climate and environmental commitments," he said. Earlier this year, the European Commission proposed a significant change in how the future CAP will operate. The traditional two pillar structure would be replaced by a single framework under a National and Regional Partnership Plan (NRPP), with CAP measures to be delivered as part of that. Concerns have also been raised about a potential cut of around 20% in the CAP funding for Ireland. Minister Byrne also highlighted EU-UK relations, which will feature on today's agenda. "The EU-UK Summit in May gave us renewed cooperation and ambition from both sides, now we need to keep up this momentum in other areas. "While we must remain clear regarding the need for progress on implementing all commitments under the Windsor Framework agreement for Northern Ireland, a close, mutually-beneficial partnership with the UK is in the interest of the union and all of our citizens," he said. Minister Byrne will remain in Brussels tomorrow for a series of engagements including a speech at the Centre for European Reform, a panel discussion at the EU Enlargement Forum and consultations with Irish stakeholders on Ireland’s upcoming 2026 Presidency of the Council of the EU. Meanwhile, Minister Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon will be in Brussels today to attend the November meeting of the European Agriculture and Fisheries Council (AGRIFISH). The council is set to debate the European Commission's post 2027 CAP proposal with a focus on food security and targeting supports. Speaking ahead of the meeting, Minister Heydon said: "It must remain a distinct, fully funded policy with clear governance, capable of sustaining farm incomes, food security, and rural resilience".

Aisling O,Aisling O'Brien
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