With Delhi's air quality entering the 'poor' category, air purifiers are becoming a consideration for people looking to reduce their exposure to pollution at home. But how effective are these devices, and what can people do to improve indoor air quality if they cannot afford one? Dr Rahul Roshan, Director - Centre For Chest & Respiratory Diseases, BLK-Max Hospital, explains how HEPA-based air purifiers can help reduce airborne particles and outlines the precautions people can take at home without one.

Do air purifiers actually help reduce pollution indoors?

Dr Roshan explains that staying indoors does not automatically mean being protected from pollution, as outdoor pollutants can enter homes through doors, windows and ventilation systems. HEPA-based air purifiers can help reduce airborne particles, provided they are appropriately sized for the room and their filters are replaced on time.

Dr Roshan also points out that air conditioners with a suitable filtration system and a recirculation setting may help limit the entry of outdoor air, depending on the system's design. Choosing equipment suited to the space and maintaining it properly are important considerations when trying to manage indoor air quality.

What can you do at home without an air purifier?

Dr  Roshan advises people who cannot afford an air purifier to take these practical steps to reduce indoor pollution:

• Keep doors and windows closed: During periods of high pollution, keep doors and windows closed as far as practical, particularly when outdoor air quality is poor.
• Ventilate when outdoor pollution improves: Open windows when outdoor pollution levels improve to allow ventilation.
• Avoid indoor sources of smoke: Avoid smoking indoors, burning incense or candles, and other activities that generate smoke.
• Reduce dust: Damp-mop floors and wipe surfaces to help reduce dust.
• Consider indoor plants: Air-purifying indoor plants can also be used.
• Use air conditioning where suitable: Air conditioners with a suitable filtration system and a recirculation setting may help limit the entry of outdoor air, depending on the system's design.

Dr Roshan's advice highlights practical ways to manage indoor air quality without an air purifier, while recognising that keeping polluted outdoor air out and allowing ventilation when conditions improve are both important considerations.

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Rates of precious metals in futures continued their downward momentum on Friday, October 23, 2026, as rising crude oil prices kept bullion markets under pressure. The gold October 5 contract on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) opened with a drop of Rs 1,251 at Rs 1,42,058 per 10 grams against the previous close of Rs 1,43,309. It fell further to touch the intraday low of Rs 1,41,806, a drop of Rs 1,503 or 1.04 per cent. Last seen, it was trading at Rs 1,41,894 with a drop of Rs 1,415 or 0.99 per cent. 

On the MCX, the yellow metal futures for February 2026 were down by Rs 1,498 or 1.03 per cent to trade at Rs 1,44,437 per 10 grams in business turnover of 762 lots. 

Silver Price On MCX   

Similarly, the silver futures, maturing on December 4, 2026, opened in the red. It began the session at Rs 1,96,587 against the previous close of Rs 1,99,599, down Rs 3,012 or 1.50 per cent. It later touched the intraday low of Rs 1,92,800, a drop of Rs 6,799 or 3.40 per cent. Last seen, it was trading at Rs 1,93,598 with a drop of Rs 6,001 or 3.01 per cent. In between, it touched the intraday high of Rs 1,96,924.

"MCX gold opened with a gap down near Rs 1,42,060 and is trading around Rs 1,42,450, down 0.60 per cent, recovering modestly from the opening low. The Rs 1,43,000–1,43,700 range, which previously acted as support, now forms immediate resistance, followed by Rs 1,45,300–1,46,000. On the downside, support lies at Rs 1,40,000–1,41,000, with the next support zone at Rs 1,37,500–1,38,300. The RSI, near 32, is approaching oversold territory, while the widening negative MACD histogram indicates persistent downside momentum," said Ponmudi R, CEO of Enrich Money. 

Gold Price in the International Market 

In the international market, the COMEX gold price fell 0.73 per cent to approximately USD 4,030.9 per troy ounce. The spot gold price at 9:45 am was USD 4,010.41 per ounce, down by USD 34.31 or 0.85 per cent. 

The confrontation with the Chinese troops are ongoing at multiple locations along the Indo-China border in Arunachal Pradesh, said ITBP DG Shatrujeet Singh Kapoor addressing his troops during an investiture ceremony held leading up to the force's 65th Raising Day on October 22. The ITBP DG congratulated the new combat team, the Shaurya commandos for their exceptional skills during faceoff with Chinese PLA troops. "Recently, a situation developed in Arunachal Pradesh where face-offs took place at several locations, and some of these situations are still ongoing. Our Shaurya Commando teams deployed there have performed exceptionally well," said ITBP chief. 

"We have already raised one commando team in every ITBP battalion, and two additional teams are now being constituted. The aim is to have a full commando company within every battalion. In addition, we are working on raising a separate battalion dedicated exclusively to commando operations. Our Operations Wing is working on this, and I hope the framework will be finalised within the next day or two. These elite commando units will become a distinctive identity for the ITBP," he added. 

More on India-China face-off 

The Indian and Chinese armies earlier held their first Corps Commander-level meeting in September. Sources said the Indian Army has taken a very firm position regarding the stance adopted by Chinese troops in the area where the latest issues have emerged. India and China have different perceptions of the LAC in their respective territories. These differing perceptions have, at times, resulted in face-offs and other issues on the ground. Until now, India and China have been holding Corps Commander-level meetings to address LAC-related issues at the Chusul-Moldo border meeting point in the Ladakh sector.

The military-level talks became particularly important after the Galwan clashes of 2020, when soldiers from both sides suffered casualties. Since then, military and diplomatic channels have remained an important part of efforts to manage tensions along the LAC. The decision to hold a Corps Commander-level meeting in the Eastern Sector therefore assumes significance as both sides seek to deal with issues specific to the Arunachal Pradesh frontier.

The latest military engagement comes after National Security Advisor Ajit Doval's visit to China, following which India and China announced several measures aimed at maintaining peace and tranquillity along the LAC. 

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In what could be considered as yet another showdown between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition, the polling for the legislative council elections in Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Bihar and Maharashtra began on Friday.

Of all the four states, the MLC elections in Uttar Pradesh are the most crucial, as assembly elections are slated for early next year. Here, polling is being held on 11 seats, and it is considered a direct electoral contest between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party (SP).

Out of the 11 seats, five are graduates' constituencies in Lucknow, Agra, Meerut, Varanasi and Allahabad-Jhansi, while six are teachers' constituencies in Lucknow, Agra, Meerut, Varanasi, Gorakhpur-Faizabad, and Bareilly-Moradabad.

The polling will allow the BJP to step up its organisational outreach in Uttar Pradesh, as it eyes to win a third consecutive assembly election next year. The party also has six out of the 11 outgoing members, and therefore, it would look to strengthen its base through these elections. 

Meanwhile, the SP would eye to consolidate itself after its impressive performance in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, where it won 37 out of the 80 seats. Of the 11 outgoing members, three are from Akhilesh's party.

Can BJP-led NDA continue its march in Bihar?

The MLC elections in Bihar will be another test for the BJP-led NDA. The alliance had swept the 2025 assembly elections, but suffered a defeat in the Bankipur byelection after Jan Suraaj chief Prashant Kishor won the seat, which was considered a bastion of BJP national president Nitin Nabin.

However, the ruling bloc would look to regroup and hope for an impressive performance in these polls. Here, polling is being held in four graduates and four teachers constituency seats. But of all of them, the contest in the Patna Graduates constituency has drawn attention after JD(U)'s Mokama MLA Anant Kumar Singh backed Jan Suraaj Party Anuj Singh against his own party's nominee, Neeraj Kumar.

Despite the party's efforts to pacify him, Anant Singh has extended support to Anuj Singh, alleging that Neeraj Kumar had worked against him during last year's assembly elections.

Will Mahayuti sweep MLC polls in Maharashtra?

Maharashtra remains another key state where MLC elections are being held for five seats: Pune Graduates, Nagpur Graduates, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Graduates, Pune Teachers and Amravati Teachers constituencies. 

The Mahayuti, which comprises the BJP, Shiv Sena and the NCP, is confident of winning all seats, while the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) is looking to make a comeback after its miserably performance in the 2024 assembly elections.

BJP-JD(S) vs Congress in Karnataka

Karnataka remains the only opposition-ruled state in these MLC elections. Here, it is a direct contest between the Congress and the BJP-JD(S) alliance. This election will test the BJP-JD(S) alliance's coordination and the Congress' support base after DK Shivakumar replaced Siddaramaiah as the chief minister.

Polling in Karnataka is being held on four seats: South-East Graduates', West Graduates', North-East Teachers' and Bengaluru Teachers'.

The polling began at 8 am in all four seats and will conclude at 4 pm. The counting of votes will take place on October 27.

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In a major development, the Indian contingent continues to perform at the Para Asian Games 2026. Nitesh Kumar and Naveen Sivakumar clinched the gold medal for India in the men’s singles badminton final in the SL3 and SL4 events, respectively. 

Nitesh Kumar faced compatriot Pramod Bhagat in the summit clash, winning 21-18, 21-16 in a match between two Paralympic gold medallists. After the game, Nitesh Kumar also took centre stage, talking about his gold medal win and how delighted he is among the many other medal victories.

"Very happy to win the Asian Games gold medal. Last time I was close, I was leading 19-16 in the third set, and then I lost. So this time, winning it and again winning in two sets against Pramod is, of course, very special, and I think it's one of the rarest of the rare things to see," Nitesh Kumar was quoted as saying by NDTV. 

Furthermore, Pramod Bhagat, who had to settle for silver, was left heartbroken and revealed that he was in it to win another gold but had to settle for the second spot. "It doesn't feel that good because I had won two consecutive gold medals at the Asian Games, and I was trying to win a third gold here. I had everything, but today some of my strokes went wrong, and my judgement was slightly off, which is why I am contenting myself with just a silver," Bhagat said.

Naveen Sivakumar defeated Fredy Setiawan to clinch the gold

Furthermore, Naveen Sivakumar also won the gold medal for India in the men’s singles badminton SL4 final. Taking on Indonesia’s Fredy Setiawan, Sivakumar put forth a brilliant showing in the clash and registered a 21-9, 21-17 win, defeating him in just 36 minutes to bring home the gold medal for India. 

The win for Sivakumar was India’s 24th gold medal victory at the Para Asian Games 2026, and it could be interesting to see how many more golds the Indian contingent can add to their tally at the event. 

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Videos showing the moments a powerful earthquake struck Tibet are circulating on social media, offering a glimpse of how people reacted as the ground began to shake. CCTV footage appears to show people rushing out of buildings and shops, while other clips show the effects of the tremors inside local businesses.

The 7.0-magnitude earthquake hit Tibet at 10:33 pm local time, or 8:03 pm in India. At least 16 people were killed and 46 injured, according to the latest information shared by local authorities. More than 300 houses were reported collapsed or damaged, as rescue teams were sent to affected areas.

Videos show people rushing out as earthquake hits Tibet

The videos show the sudden panic as people rush out of buildings and into the street, leaving parked vehicles behind. Inside a shop, furniture shifts around a table, while another clip captures goods tumbling from store shelves.

Where did the earthquake strike?

The earthquake's epicentre was in Maru township in Baqen county, in the mountainous region of Tibet. It was around 190 km east-northeast of Nagqu and 390 km northeast of Lhasa, according to the US Geological Survey. The quake was shallow, at a depth of around 10 km.

The township's deputy head, Lhawang Dagpo, said the shaking was clearly felt at the township office, where cracks appeared. Power and telecommunications services were also disrupted in the county seat.

Rescue teams deployed after homes collapse

Local authorities said more than 300 houses had collapsed or been damaged, with CCTV putting the figure at 339. The full extent of the damage was still being assessed, while rescue and relief work continued.

More than 300 police officers were dispatched to assist with relief efforts, and the regional fire and rescue corps mobilised 347 personnel. Footage shared from the affected area shows rescuers moving among damaged buildings and collapsed roofs, using flashlights to search through the debris. One clip also shows rescue workers carrying a person, while soldiers appear lined up ready to deploy.

A Level-III earthquake disaster emergency response was activated.

Tibet and China have a history of deadly earthquakes

Earthquakes are common in China, and the latest disaster comes after several deadly quakes in recent years. In January 2025, at least 126 people died in an earthquake in rural Tingri county in Tibet.

In December 2023, an earthquake in Gansu killed at least 127 people, making it China's deadliest quake since 2014, when more than 600 people died in Yunnan. The 2008 Sichuan earthquake left around 90,000 people dead or missing, including about 5,000 schoolchildren.

The region near the Nepal-Tibet border has also suffered devastating floods and landslides in recent years, which caused more than 1,400 deaths and left thousands missing.

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16 killed, 46 injured as 7.0-magnitude earthquake hits Tibet, rescue operations underway

The Indian team got off to a brilliant start to the ongoing multi-format series against New Zealand. Taking on the Black Caps in the first T20I of the series, the two sides met at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch on October 22nd, and it was the Indian team that came out on top. 

Batting first after losing the toss, New Zealand put forth an incredible performance, scoring 225 runs in the first innings of the game. With the game looking done and dusted for India, the Men in Blue’s sensational showing in the game helped them win the game by four wickets. 

After the victory, India skipper Shreyas Iyer took centre stage and talked about the performance that the Indian team put in the clash. He talked about how delighted he is with the performance that the Men in Blue put in. 

“Fantastic. Probably we've got to forget about the jet lag now. [On the pitch conditions, India's bowling performance, and how the surface changed during New Zealand's innings] So when we started bowling, I thought it was playing a bit slow. The ball was holding a bit, and we bowled a little ahead compared to the hard lengths we should have been hitting,” Shreyas Iyer said in the post-match presentation ceremony. 

Iyer opened up on India’s top-order

Furthermore, Iyer talked about if he gives any instructions to the duo of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson on how to go about their business, considering their recent brilliant form for the Men in Blue. 

“They're experienced enough now. Yeah, they're absolutely experienced enough. You don't have to tell them how to go about their business. They know exactly what they're doing, and once they get going, it's just about the momentum they carry forward, and today was just an example of that. So obviously it doesn't happen every time, but once they click, you see that they set a game for us, and the rest of us, we just come and steady the ship and see to it that we finish off the game,” Iyer said. 

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India on Thursday (local time) launched a sharp attack on Pakistan over its continued support to terrorism and questioned the neighbouring country over religious freedom, while rejecting a report by the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Migrants.

India's response was delivered by Bhavika Mangalanandan, who is the country's First Secretary at the UN.

Questioning the report's methodology, Mangalanandan said it attributes that all wrong practices during the COVID-19 pandemic happened only in the Global South, turning a "blind eye to similar tragic situations" in the developed world. 

Taking a swipe at Pakistan, she said terrorists operate freely in the neighbouring country and their burials are being justified. She pointed out that a terrorist not only kills innocent people but also damages the psyche of a nation.

"Legal limits should be determined in accordance with the principles of sovereign rights," she said. "It's a price that the fervent advocacy for the rights of terrorists who violate the most sacred right of humans, the right to life, does not similarly extend to the victims of terrorism."

Mangalanandan, a seasoned diplomat, continued schooling Pakistan and recounted how Islamabad refused to accept the bodies of its soldiers who were killed during the 1999 Kargil War. She described it as ironic that a country which refused to accept its fallen soldiers "unabashedly speaks with fervor on faith, religious freedom and burials."

"Let me remind them it was an Indian army who buried a number of Pakistani soldiers with military honours and in accordance with Islamic rights," she said.

Mangalanandan also rejected Pakistan's remarks on the Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir, and said Islamabad should focus on the territories under its illegal occupation and developments there.

"Pakistan's deep obsession with what is happening in the Indian Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir should be actually directed at the developments that are underway in the parts of Jammu and Kashmir under its legal occupation such as Rawalakot. In Pakistan a number of minorities are shrinking, their rights regularly abused," she said. 

"A state that cannot ensure the safety of its own minorities has no standing to lecture India," she concluded.

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The AP Intermediate timetable 2027 for first year and second year students has been released, the BIEAP first year exam is scheduled to be held from February 25 to March 16, while second year exam from February 24 to March 15, 2027. The first and second year exam will be conducted from 9 am to 12 noon. The students can check and download BIEAP 1st, 2nd year time table on the official website - bie.ap.gov.in. 

BIEAP Inter 1st year time table 2027 

BIEAP 2nd Year Time Table 2027 

AP Inter Time Table 2027 PDF Here 

How to download AP Inter 1st, 2nd year time table  2027 

The students can check and download BIEAP 1st, 2nd year time table on the official website - bie.ap.gov.in. To download BIEAP 1st, 2nd year time table, the students need to visit the official website - bie.ap.gov.in and click on BIEAP 1st, 2nd year time table PDF link. BIEAP 1st, 2nd year time table PDF will appear on the screen for download, save BIEAP 1st, 2nd year time table PDF and take a print out of the same. 

• Visit the official website - bie.ap.gov.in 
• Click on BIEAP 1st, 2nd year time table PDF link 
• BIEAP 1st, 2nd year time table PDF will be available for download on the screen 
• Save BIEAP 1st, 2nd year time table PDF and take a hard copy out of it. 

For details on AP Inter exam 2027, please visit the official website - bie.ap.gov.in. 

While the opposition continues targeted Gynaesh Kumar over alleged discrepancies in the nationwide Special Intensive Revision (SIR) drive, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has said that a fresh notice seeking the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) would be examined in accordance with the law.

Birla made the remarks during media briefing in New Delhi on Thursday when he was asked if he has received any letter from the opposition against Kumar.

"If any fresh notice comes, we will see and examine it accordingly under rules and procedures," he said. "We will follow the due process. Just as there is a procedure for the impeachment of judges, there is a process laid down for the CEC. Everyone has the right to express their views in a democracy. When they bring it to Parliament, we will take action at that time."

His remarks come as the Congress-led INDIA bloc prepare its strategy against Kumar and prepare to corner the government over the alleged 'vote chori'. Earlier, several opposition leaders -- including Leader of Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha -- also filed a plea in Supreme Court, seeking action against Kumar and calling for a halt on the SIR of electoral rolls. 

How can a CEC be removed?

According to the Constitution, the CEC can only be removed by the Parliament the way a sitting Supreme Court judge can be impeached. Meanwhile, Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023, says that the CEC can submit his/ her resignation to the President.

According to Article 124, which deals with the Supreme Court, a judge of the Supreme Court shall not be removed from his office except by an order of the President passed after an address by each House of Parliament supported by a majority of the total membership of that House and by a majority of not less than two-thirds of the members of that House present and voting has been presented to the President in the same session for such removal on the ground of proved misbehaviour or incapacity.

The Judges (Inquiry) Act of 1968 says that once a motion to remove a judge is admitted in any of the Houses, the speaker or the chairman, as the case may be, will constitute a three-member committee to investigate the grounds on which the removal (or, in popular term, impeachment) has been sought.

The committee consists of the chief justice of India (CJI) or a Supreme Court judge, the chief justice of one of the 25 high courts and a "distinguished jurist". At the conclusion of the investigation, the committee shall submit its report to the Speaker or, as the case may be, to the Chairman, or where the Committee has been constituted jointly by the Speaker and the Chairman, to both of them, stating therein its findings on each of the charges separately with such observations on the whole case as it thinks fit.

The Speaker or the Chairman, or, where the Committee has been constituted jointly by the Speaker and the Chairman, both of them, shall cause the report submitted under sub-section (2) to be laid, as soon as may be, respectively before the House of the People and the Council of States.

If the report of the committee contains a finding that the Judge is not guilty of any misbehaviour or does not suffer from any incapacity, then, no further steps shall be taken in either house of Parliament in relation to the report and the motion pending in the house or the houses of Parliament shall not be proceeded with.

If the report of the committee contains a finding that the judge is guilty of any misbehaviour or suffers from any incapacity, then, the motion together with the report of the committee, be taken up for consideration by the House or the Houses of Parliament in which it is pending.

If the motion is adopted by each House of Parliament in accordance with the provisions of Article 124 or, as the case may be, in accordance with the clause read with Article 218 of the Constitution, then, the misbehaviour or incapacity of the judge shall be deemed to have been proved and an address praying for the removal of the Judge shall be presented in the prescribed manner to the President by each House of Parliament in the same session in which the motion has been adopted.

(With PTI inputs)

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A firing incident was reported in Sector 22 of Chandigarh, leaving one person dead and another critically injured. The deceased has been identified as Naitik.As per initial reports, two groups who earlier studied in the same school engaged in a fighting at late night in Sector 34, following that, a group of three juvenile gunmen on a motorcycle attacked the another group of minors in Sector 22 when they are returning home in an autorickshaw. The alleged firing took life of one person and critically injured the other. The autorickshaw driver was also got injured. 

According to SHO Sudesh Kumar, "two boys and the auto-rickshaw driver were struck by gunfire. The auto-rickshaw driver has been admitted to the hospital. One person has lost his life. It appears there was a long-standing grudge between these boys, dating back to their school days. We have learned that a dispute broke out among a group of friends in Sector 44 today...The boy who died was a minor and the perpetrator is also of a similar age...The CFSL team has arrived, so it would be premature to comment further; the investigation is still in its initial stages." 

Similar incident: Class 9 student stabbed to death in Delhi's Pitampura over Instagram comment 

A Class 9 student was killed and a young man seriously injured in a stabbing incident during a Durga idol immersion procession in Delhi's Pitampura area on Wednesday evening. The attack allegedly involved masked assailants and is believed to have stemmed from a dispute over a comment on an Instagram post. Delhi Police have detained four minor boys in connection with the case. The injured man has been admitted to hospital, while police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack.

What happened during the Durga idol immersion procession?

The incident took place as a Durga idol immersion procession was passing through Pitampura on Wednesday evening. According to the initial account, the attackers were allegedly involved in a dispute with a young man named Ashu over a comment on an Instagram post.

During the procession, the assailants allegedly found an opportunity to surround Ashu and attack him with knives. The stabbing left a Class 9 student dead and Ashu seriously injured. Further details about the sequence of events and the circumstances in which the school student was attacked have not been established in the information available so far. 

-With ANI Inputs.

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Vivo is preparing to launch its Y600 smartphone in the China market on October 30. The big selling point here is the massive 10,000mAh battery, which could keep the device for 2 full days with ease. The smartphone went through a battery endurance test, and Vivo says it actually landed a Guinness World Record thanks to that.

While we know what the phone looks like and the available colours, Vivo’s keeping the full list of specs and the price under wraps for now.

Vivo Y600: Launch date, design and colours

Vivo shared on Weibo that the Y600 is coming at the end of October. The promo shots show off the phone in white and purple. The design sticks with those flat sides that are pretty trendy these days, plus a slightly raised camera module on the back.

That module houses two cameras, which is confirmed to come with a primary 50-megapixel shooter. And the secondary camera detail is still under the hood.

Look alike Vivo’s V80 Lite

The overall look reminds me a lot of Vivo’s V80 Lite, which came out in Malaysia back in September 2026. That one, though, has a gold ring around the camera, so that’s one obvious difference compared to the Y600.

Battery: Main highlight

As for the battery, Vivo promises the Y600 can last up to 2-days on a single charge with its 10,000mAh powerhouse. They even posted about that Guinness World Record run, saying the phone managed a 32-hour, 37-minute livestreaming test on August 11, 2026.

Now, honestly, real-world battery life always depends on how you use the device- stream a little less, scroll a little more, and your mileage may vary.

Specifications 

Since it looks like the V80 Lite, we are speculating that the Vivo Y600 could be a rebrand of that device or at least very similar. For reference, the V80 Lite packs a 6.83-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, boasts IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water, and runs on a MediaTek Dimensity 7300e chip.

That is paired with up to 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 256GB of UFS 3.1 storage. Camera-wise, you get a 50-megapixel main lens, a 2-megapixel macro, and a 32-megapixel selfie cam. It is backed by a 10,000mAh battery with 44W wired charging.

So, when can you actually buy one, and for how much?

The Y600 launches in China on October 30, but we are still waiting for more information to surface about price, RAM, storage options, and whether it will be available outside China, including in India. 

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England and Sri Lanka continued their ongoing tri-series by taking on each other in Rawalpindi. The two sides met on October 22nd, and the game went on to be one of the biggest games of the year. The clash saw England kick off the game, coming in to bat first and playing some exceptional cricket.

Putting in a brilliant performance, England posted a total of 429 runs in the first innings of the game. Throughout the innings, there were several performances that stood out for the side, but it was the showing of star batter Harry Brook. 

Coming in to bat after the fall of two wickets, Brook scored a brilliant double century, amassing 202 runs to his name in 116 deliveries, propelling England to a massive total in the game. 

Chasing down the target, Sri Lanka managed to pull off the massive 430-run chase, with Pavan Rathnayake scoring 130 runs in 106 deliveries. With Sri Lanka winning the game, Harry Brook went on to achieve a unique feat. With a score of 202 runs, Brook now has the highest individual score in ODI cricket history in a losing cause. 

Highest scores in a losing cause in ODIs

202 Harry Brook vs Eng Rawalpindi 2026

194*Charles Coventry vs Ban Bulawayo 2009

193 Fakhar Zaman vs SA Joburg 2021

191 Goerge Munsey vs Net Dundee 2025

181*Matthew Hayden vs NZ Hamilton 2007

Brook opened up on his performance

After the game, England skipper Harry Brook took centre stage and talked about the match, branding it as an incredible game of cricket. Talking about how Sri Lanka outplayed them in the clash. 

“Incredible game of cricket. I thought both teams were exceptional. Sri Lanka just outplayed us, unfortunately. We couldn't quite hit our straps with the ball and played into their strengths a little bit, and again they played exceptional cricket to knock off 400. I think you said first time in 20 years is an incredible achievement, so fair play to them. Yeah, it's nice to things. Unfortunately, it doesn't mean anything now, being on the losing side. It has no value whatsoever in my eyes. [Tougher conversations ahead?] Yeah, we've got to go back to the drawing board a little bit. No, we know where we've gone wrong,” Brook said in the post-match presentation ceremony.

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A powerful earthquake measuring 7.0 magnitude has killed at least 16 people and injured 46 others in China's remote Tibet region, according to state media citing local authorities. The quake caused extensive damage, with 339 houses reported to have collapsed or been damaged. Eleven of the injured are in a serious condition, while rescue and relief operations are continuing.

The tremors struck on Thursday night, sending people rushing out of restaurants and shops as buildings shook and objects fell from supermarket shelves. Officials are still assessing the damage, while rescue teams search damaged buildings and work to assist people affected by the earthquake.

Where did the earthquake strike?

According to the US Geological Survey, the epicentre was in a mountainous area around 190 kilometres east-northeast of Nagqu and 390 kilometres northeast of Lhasa, the regional capital. The earthquake struck at 10.33 pm on Thursday, at a depth of around 10 kilometres.

The epicentre was located in Maru township in Baqen county. Township deputy head Lhawang Dagpo told Xinhua that the tremors were clearly felt at the township office, where cracks appeared in the walls.

Power and telecommunications services were disrupted in the county seat following the earthquake. A level-III earthquake disaster emergency response was activated in the affected area, CCTV reported.

Hundreds of homes damaged as rescue operations continue

According to local officials cited by CCTV, 339 houses had collapsed or sustained damage. Officials are continuing to assess the destruction, while search and rescue operations remain under way.

More than 300 police officers have been sent to assist with relief efforts, while the regional fire and rescue corps has mobilised 347 personnel to affected areas, Xinhua reported.

Footage broadcast by CCTV showed rescue workers moving through damaged buildings, some with collapsed roofs. In one scene, workers were seen carrying an injured person, while other footage showed rescuers using torches to inspect damaged structures and soldiers lining up to prepare for deployment.

Videos released by CCTV also captured people rushing out of restaurants and items falling from supermarket shelves as the earthquake struck. Tents are being set up to provide temporary shelter for people displaced by the disaster.

Tibet hit by strongest earthquake in five years

The earthquake is reported to be the strongest to hit the Tibet region in five years. It comes just weeks after severe flooding and landslides struck areas near the border between Nepal and China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Those disasters reportedly killed more than 1,400 people, with thousands more reported missing.

A history of deadly earthquakes in China

Earthquakes are relatively common in China, and the country has experienced several devastating events over the years.

In January 2025, at least 126 people were killed in an earthquake in Tingri county in rural Tibet. In December 2023, a powerful tremor in the remote north-western province of Gansu killed at least 127 people, according to state media. That was China's deadliest earthquake since 2014, when more than 600 people died in Yunnan province in the south-west.

One of the country's worst disasters occurred in 2008, when a massive earthquake struck Sichuan province, leaving around 90,000 people dead or missing, including approximately 5,000 schoolchildren.

Rescue and relief operations are continuing in Tibet as authorities assess the damage and work to assist affected residents.

(With inputs from AFP)

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Sargi is a traditional pre-dawn meal eaten by women observing the Karwa Chauth fast. It is usually prepared or gifted by the mother-in-law to her daughter-in-law and is considered an important part of the festival. The meal is eaten before sunrise, after which women begin their fast, traditionally abstaining from food and water until the moon rises.

Apart from its religious significance, Sargi also gives women an opportunity to eat and hydrate before a long day of fasting. The items included in the thali may vary according to family traditions and regional customs, but certain foods are commonly associated with it.

What is included in a Sargi thali?

1. Pheni or seviyan

Pheni and seviyan are among the traditional foods included in a Sargi thali. Often prepared with milk and sugar, these sweet dishes are a familiar part of the pre-dawn meal. They also offer a source of energy before the fast begins.

2. Fresh fruits

Apples, bananas, pomegranates and other seasonal fruits are commonly included in Sargi. Fruits provide vitamins, minerals and fibre, while some varieties also contribute to fluid intake. Including a selection of fruits can help make the meal more balanced.

3. Dry fruits and nuts

Almonds, cashews, walnuts, pistachios and raisins are popular additions to the Sargi thali. Nuts and dry fruits provide energy and nutrients, making them a useful option before the fasting period begins.

4. Mathri and savoury snacks

Mathri and other traditional savoury snacks may also be included. These are often served alongside sweets and other foods as part of the customary Sargi spread.

5. Traditional sweets

Mithai, ladoos, peda, barfi or halwa may feature in the thali, depending on family preferences. Sweets are commonly included as part of the festive tradition and add a celebratory touch to the meal.

6. Coconut and drinks

Coconut, milk and coconut water may also be included in Sargi. Drinking enough fluids before sunrise is particularly important for those observing a fast without water. Water should be included as part of pre-fast hydration, unless a healthcare professional has advised otherwise.

Why is Sargi eaten before sunrise?

Sargi is traditionally consumed in the early hours of the morning before the Karwa Chauth fast begins. It is both a customary ritual and the main opportunity to eat before the day's fast. Since women who observe a strict nirjala fast abstain from both food and water until moonrise, making the pre-dawn meal balanced can be helpful. A combination of fruits, nuts, filling foods and fluids may help provide energy and hydration for the day.

What should you keep in mind while preparing Sargi?

There is no single fixed menu for Sargi. Families can prepare the thali according to their customs, preferences and dietary requirements. Rather than relying only on sweets or fried snacks, including a variety of foods can help make the meal more nourishing. Women with medical conditions, those taking regular medication, or anyone who may be at risk from fasting without water should consult a healthcare professional before observing a strict fast. Religious traditions are important to many families, but individual health needs should also be considered.

Ultimately, Sargi is more than a pre-dawn meal. It is a cherished Karwa Chauth tradition that brings together family customs, blessings and preparations for the day of fasting.

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Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Rajeev Krishna has hailed short film 'Vardi' and described it as a movie that expresses gratitude and pays tributes to police personnel who lost their lives on the line of duty.

The film was released on October 21, as India marked the Police Commemoration Day 2026.

It highlights the indomitable courage, devotion to duty, and supreme sacrifice of Kirti Chakra awardee Sunil Kumar, an Inspector in the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF). As per a statement, 'Vardi' showcases the silence and sense of loss that remain in a martyr’s family after the sacrifice of a loved one—the pride they feel in their loved one’s service, alongside the pain of their absence.

'Tribute to those who sacrificed their lives'

Shot in Mumbai, the film was produced under the guidance of Rajeev Krishna, who said 'Vardi' is a humble tribute to those who sacrificed their lives on the line of duty.

"The film Vardi is dedicated to the bravery, devotion to duty and supreme sacrifice of martyr Sub-Inspector Sunil Kumar. Through the story of Sunil Kumar, who was posthumously awarded the Kirti Chakra, the film pays tribute to all police personnel who laid down their lives in the line of duty," he said in a video message.

"I am deeply grateful to Bollywood for being part of films made by Uttar Pradesh Police on issues related to social concerns. Our endeavour is to share the valour of heroes in uniform, their sacrifices, and the emotions of their families with people across the country. Uttar Pradesh Police pays its humble tribute to all the immortal martyrs who sacrificed everything in the service of the nation," he added.

Directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia

The film has been directed by filmmaker Tigmanshu Dhulia and produced in collaboration with the Department of Information and Public Relations of the Uttar Pradesh government. It features Amit Sadh, Nazish Khan and veteran TV actress Alka Amin.

The voice-over and script have been written by Constable Kapil Dinkar, who is posted at the UP Police Social Media Centre. Meanwhile, IPS officer Rahul Srivastava, Superintendent of Police (SP) and Public Relations Officer (PRO) to the DGP, has done the creative direction.

A court in Jhansi on Thursday cancelled a non-bailable warrant issued against actor Rakhi Sawant in a case related to the alleged abetment of suicide of a 24-year-old man, following a plea citing an Allahabad High Court order staying further proceedings.

Advocate Ashu Singh, who represented Sawant, said the warrant had been issued against the actor on October 16 by the court of the Civil Judge (Junior Division).

Singh further said that the defence subsequently filed an application seeking cancellation of the warrant and submitted a copy of the Allahabad High Court order staying further proceedings in the case.

Acting on the High Court's order, the Civil Judge (Junior Division), Fast Track Court, cancelled the non-bailable warrant, he added.

What is the 2010 suicide case involving Rakhi Sawant?

The case relates to Laxman Ahirwar, a resident of the Hansari area under the Prem Nagar police station limits in Jhansi, who allegedly died by suicide on November 10, 2010, after being humiliated by remarks made by Sawant on her television show.

At the time, Sawant hosted Rakhi Ka Insaaf, a programme on a private television channel that featured disputes between individuals and families. According to the prosecution, Ahirwar and his wife, Anita, who was from Rajgarh, were invited to the show following marital discord. Anita had returned to her parental home after disputes between the couple.

Their marital dispute was subsequently featured on the programme in an episode aired in October 2010.

Laxman Ahirwar's mother lodged a complaint

Ahirwar’s mother, Savitri, lodged a complaint at the Prem Nagar police station, alleging that Sawant had used insulting and objectionable language against her son during the broadcast. The family alleged that he was deeply hurt by the remarks and subsequently died by suicide.

Following the incident, the police registered a case against Sawant and other members of the show’s production team. After the investigation, a charge sheet was filed against Sawant and the other accused.

High Court imposed a stay in 2011

According to advocate Ashu Singh, the Allahabad High Court had, on December 7, 2011, stayed further proceedings in this matter until further orders. Citing this order, the defense sought the cancellation of the non-bailable warrant, a request that was accepted by the Jhansi court.

(With PTI inputs)

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday launched a sharp attack on the Congress, accusing it of damaging India's international reputation by promoting what he called a "failed product". Addressing the NDTV World Summit, PM Modi also alleged that "Dimagi Naxals" had hijacked the party's thinking, leaving it unable to function as an effective Opposition. The Prime Minister's remarks came amid a political confrontation over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and Congress-led protests against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. PM Modi accused the Opposition party of undermining India's standing abroad and disrupting democratic debate at home.

'How long will Congress stake the nation to launch its failed product?'

Speaking about India's place in a changing global order, PM Modi said the country should project strength and stability at a time when international affairs are witnessing considerable uncertainty. He accused the Congress of pursuing a contrary course by attempting to tarnish India's image overseas. "While the world is searching for a new order, some people are dreaming of disorder in India. Today, when there is so much turmoil across the globe, an image of a strong India should be presented to the world; yet, these individuals are actively working to tarnish India's global reputation. They travel abroad to defame the nation and appeal for foreign intervention. One wonders how long Congress will continue to stake the nation just to launch their 'failed product'," PM Modi stated at the NDTV World Summit in an apparent dig at Congress MP Rahul Gandhi. The Prime Minister argued that the party was putting its political interests ahead of the country's achievements and global reputation.

'Dimagi Naxals' have hijacked Congress's thinking: PM

The Prime Minister accused the Congress of preventing other Opposition leaders from raising legitimate concerns, alleging that its disruptive tactics were weakening democratic discourse. "Those who want to present their points against the government in a legitimate democratic manner find their voices drowned out by the noise of Congress," he said.

Taking his criticism further, PM Modi claimed that ideological extremists had taken control of the party's thinking. "'Dimagi Naxals' have completely hijacked the mind of the Congress party to the extent that it has lost its own capacity to think. Those who once caused destruction in the jungles have now infiltrated Congress and are working towards the ruin of the nation."

'Congress putting dynasty ahead of India's achievements'

PM Modi also accused the Congress of prioritising the interests of its political leadership and family over national progress. He said the party was turning India's achievements and institutional strengths into targets of political confrontation. "Congress is free to cause its own ruin, but solely to shield its dynasty from the recurring stain of failure, Congress has now started putting India's achievements, strengths, and progress on trial," he said.

The Prime Minister further claimed that dissatisfaction was growing among senior Congress leaders, whom he said privately acknowledged the problems within the party but continued to remain silent.

"This family has become a burden on the Congress party. Even senior elders within the party realise this...They tell us so when they meet us in private, yet they swallow their humiliation and stay silent. The biggest victims of Congress' behaviour are the genuine, honest critics of the government, which is a major blow to democracy," he said.

Modi accuses Congress of disrupting Parliament and Opposition voices

The Prime Minister said the Congress was also undermining the functioning of Parliament by preventing younger opposition MPs from putting forward their views and questioning the government. He alleged that the party's approach was designed to keep one leader in the spotlight at the expense of other opposition figures. "We have witnessed this in Parliament: there are so many young opposition MPs who wish to raise their voices and critique the government, but Congress disrupts Parliament so other voices don't get a platform -- because they must keep only one specific person in the limelight. By doing this, Congress does grave injustice to other opposition leaders," he added.

PM Modi said even protests aimed at highlighting administrative shortcomings or seeking institutional reforms were being derailed by the Congress. "Even constructive protests that genuinely aim to highlight administrative shortcomings or demand institutional reforms, which are vital in a democracy, are derailed and destroyed by Congress," he said. He described the party as "parasitic", accusing it of preventing other opposition leaders from building their political standing.

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All schools and colleges in Ghaziabad district will remain closed on Friday (October 23). This decision has been taken in view of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council elections for the Meerut Division Graduates' and Teachers' constituencies. A special holiday will be observed in educational institutions from nursery to class 12, as well as in higher education institutions.

UP Legislative Council elections: 152 candidates in fray

The development comes as the fate of 152 candidates, contesting biennial elections for 11 Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council seats -- five graduates and six teachers’ constituencies, will be decided in the polling to on Friday.

The voting will be held from 8 am to 4 pm through ballot papers, across 2,697 polling stations when a total of 14,81,310 electors are eligible to vote. Counting of votes is scheduled on October 27. This time, the election is witnessing a direct contest between the ruling BJP and the Samajwadi Party, before the assembly polls as both have fielded candidate in all 11 seats. For the polling purpose, the Election Commission has made elaborate arrangements for peaceful voting.

Check constituency-wise candidate numbers

Among the Graduates’ constituencies, Varanasi has the highest number of candidates at 24, followed by Lucknow with 16, Agra and Allahabad-Jhansi with 13 each, and Meerut with eight.

Moreover, in Teachers’ constituencies, Bareilly-Moradabad has 17 candidates, Gorakhpur-Faizabad 16, Lucknow 13, Agra 12, and Varanasi and Meerut 10 each. Lucknow Graduates’ constituency has the largest electorate at 3,13,531, followed by Varanasi with 2,88,622 and Allahabad-Jhansi with 2,64,233 voters.

A graduates' constituency is the one in which only graduates from any recognised Indian university, or those with an equivalent qualification, are qualified to be enrolled in the voter rolls. Similarly, in a teachers' constituency, only a full-time teacher at a secondary school or higher for at least three years out of the previous six years is eligible to vote.

These are the outgoing MLCs in UP

The elections were announced as the tenures of the members elected from these constituencies are scheduled to end on December 6. The outgoing MLCs include BJP members Avneesh Kumar Singh, Manvendra Pratap Singh, Dinesh Kumar Goyal, Umesh Dwivedi, Shrichand Sharma and Hari Singh Dhillon, Samajwadi Party members Lal Bihari Yadav, Ashutosh Sinha and Man Singh Yadav, Independent member Akash Agrawal and teachers' constituency member Dhruv Kumar Tripathi.

In the 100-member Legislative Council, the BJP has 79 members, while its ally Apna Dal (Sonelal) has one. The Samajwadi Party has 10 members, of which five are from the 'others' category, and four are Independents.

(With inputs from Zuber Akhtar)

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Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday (October 22) reacted to the controversy surrounding a viral video showing state minister Subodh Uniyal losing his temper at singer Daler Mehndi during an event. Dhami said Uniyal had clarified that he was unaware of the singer's health condition and had already issued a statement explaining his position.

What did CM Dhami say?

On the viral video, CM Dhami said, "The Minister himself stated yesterday that he was unaware of the individual's poor health; the Minister has already come forward to address the matter. These are all distinguished artists."

"Uttarakhand is a land that honors writers, artists, and scholars alike. Regarding the situation that unfolded due to public pressure at the time, I believe that since the Minister has now issued a statement himself, he has clarified that he had no such intention. Therefore, I think everyone should now consider this matter closed."

The controversy erupted after a video showing Narendra Nagar MLA and state minister Subodh Uniyal's interaction with Daler Mehndi went viral on social media, drawing criticism over his conduct. Uniyal reportedly expressed displeasure with the singer's performance and interrupted him after taking the stage. He allegedly reprimanded Mehndi over his inability to sing as expected, triggering a debate on social media.

CM Dhami speaks to Mika Singh over phone

Dhami also spoke to singer Mika Singh over the phone to discuss the controversy involving Daler Mehndi. The Chief Minister said any misunderstanding or difference of opinion should be resolved through mutual dialogue and goodwill.

Emphasising Uttarakhand's tradition of Atithi Devo Bhava, Dhami said the state has always welcomed and respected artists from across the country and the world.

"Today, I had a telephonic conversation with renowned singer Mika Singh ji. While discussing the matter related to Daler Mehndi ji, we agreed that any misunderstanding should be resolved through mutual dialogue and goodwill. Devbhoomi Uttarakhand upholds our great tradition of 'Atithi Devo Bhava'. All artists are welcomed and respected here wholeheartedly," Dhami said.

He added that the state government remained committed to honouring art, culture and artists.

Mika Singh backs Daler Mehndi

Taking to his X handle, Mika had expressed disappointment over the way Daler was treated at the event. He said the minister should appreciate the singer for helping ensure that the programme went ahead as planned instead of questioning him publicly.

According to Mika, singer Sunanda Sharma had initially been booked to perform at the event but had to pull out after developing a fever. Daler was then approached at the last minute and agreed to perform despite his own health concerns. Mika suggested that Daler's decision to step in and perform at short notice deserved appreciation rather than criticism. He also said that if the minister had made a mistake, he should acknowledge it and apologise to the veteran singer.

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In an effort to curb Delhi air pollution and prevent traffic congestion, the Delhi Traffic Police said it will permit only electric vehicles, CNG and BS-VI diesel buses to operate, diverting non-compliant inter-city and inter-state buses at the national capital's borders, an official said on Thursday.

Only electric vehicles would be permitted to operate

"Only electric vehicles, CNG and BS-VI diesel buses would be permitted to operate, subject to prescribed conditions. Non-compliant buses must be stopped and diverted at the borders, as turning them back after they enter Delhi leads to congestion and additional pollution," Delhi Traffic Police said in a statement.

The latest decision was taken at an inter-state coordination meeting chaired by Special Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Ajay Chaudhary to ensure effective implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage-I and directions issued by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). In the meantime, the representatives of concerned departments, civic agencies, and police authorities from neighbouring states and districts attended the meeting.

Officials review restrictions on vehicles registered outside Delhi

During the meeting, the officials reviewed restrictions on vehicles registered outside Delhi from November 1, 2026, to January 31, 2027, subject to notified exemptions. The official said the meeting decided to install prominent display boards at Delhi's borders to inform motorists about the restrictions. Joint enforcement teams may also be constituted to ensure compliance.

Officials were also directed to strictly enforce no-entry timings, check non-destined and overloaded vehicles, and take action against vehicles transporting construction and demolition material in violation of prescribed norms, the statement said.

Vehicle owners were advised to ensure they possess valid PUC

At this time, the vehicle owners were also advised to ensure they possess valid Pollution Under Control Certificates, wherever applicable. The meeting further stressed the need for civic agencies to expedite construction work, minimise dust generation and undertake regular water sprinkling on roads and at construction sites. "To improve coordination, a dedicated WhatsApp group will be created for real-time sharing of directions and monitoring action taken by various agencies," the statement said.

Delhi records first 'poor' air quality on Wednesday

The development comes at a time, the national capital recorded its first 'poor' air quality day of the season on Wednesday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) settling at 245, the highest in 100 days. The city last recorded a comparable AQI on July 13, when the index stood at 246, according to data. After the capital's air quality slipped, the CAQM invoked Stage I of the GRAP across Delhi-NCR. According to the Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, air quality is likely to remain in the 'poor' category from October 21 to 24. The outlook for the subsequent six days also indicates that the AQI is likely to remain in the same category.

With inputs from PTI

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A delivery worker in East Delhi died by suicide weeks after he was allegedly assaulted during a dispute over a torn Rs 10 note, leaving behind a video in which he spoke of the humiliation he had suffered. The deceased has been identified as Sameer Hussain. He was due to turn 24 on October 21 and died on October 20, police said. They have also arrested two men in connection with the alleged assault and added a charge of abetment of suicide to the case.

According to police, the confrontation took place on the night of October 4 in East Vinod Nagar, where Hussain had gone to deliver a coffee order worth around Rs 150. A police control room call was received at 11.03 pm, with Hussain reporting that he had been attacked over a dispute involving a torn currency note. His medico-legal case was prepared shortly after midnight on October 5, and an FIR was registered at Kalyanpuri police station that day.

In a video recorded before he consumed poison, Hussain recounted that the customer had taken around 15 minutes to arrange the payment. He said he did not object to the delay but asked the customer to exchange a torn Rs 10 note. Hussain alleged that the customer responded aggressively and slapped him three times. He said he did not retaliate, but was deeply hurt by the insults directed at his financial circumstances. Police have arrested the two accused, identified as Rakesh alias Bunty (30) and Rampal Singh (65).

Delivery worker spoke of dignity and earning an honest living

In the video, Hussain described himself as someone who wanted to support himself through hard work. He said he used a bicycle to deliver orders because he did not own a vehicle. "I believe in working hard. I don't have any vehicle, so I deliver on a cycle. I believe that I'll eat less but will eat from my own hard work," he said in the video.

He alleged that the dispute escalated after he politely asked the customer to replace the damaged note. Recalling the response, he said, "I told him politely that uncle, please change this note, but he started misbehaving. He said, "This is what I have; if you want, take it or go from here," Hussain said. He questioned why his economic circumstances had become a reason for humiliation, asking, "Is being poor an abuse?"

Hussain also said he had avoided asking his father for money because he wanted to earn independently. In the video, he expressed apprehension that he might not receive justice because he lacked financial resources and questioned what protection delivery workers could expect when they faced violence. "I will commit suicide, since my self-respect has anyway been tarnished in the middle of the road," he said in the video.

Addressing his mother, Hussain said he considered himself strong but feared he would not be able to live peacefully after what had happened. He also spoke about the emotional impact of being slapped.

Family alleges second man joined assault with iron rod

Hussain's uncle, Md Sameer, told PTI that the delivery worker had reached East Vinod Nagar at around 10.30 pm on October 4 when the argument over the torn note began. The uncle alleged that Rampal repeatedly slapped Hussain and that his grandson, Rakesh alias Bunty, later joined the confrontation and attacked him with an iron rod.

After the alleged assault, Hussain returned to his workplace and told his manager what had happened. The manager then sent some people to the accused's residence, his uncle claimed. According to the uncle, the accused did not come downstairs and instead shouted from their home, allegedly making remarks about Hussain's community and saying they feared no one. The family subsequently approached Kalyanpuri police station and lodged a complaint, he said.

Hussain consumed poison days after the alleged assault

Police said they later received information that Hussain had consumed a poisonous substance and was admitted to Lal Bahadur Shastri Hospital on October 5. He died on October 20. Following his death, police added Section 108 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which deals with abetment of suicide, to the FIR.

Hussain's uncle alleged that he had consumed poison used to kill cockroaches. He said the family did not know whether Hussain had faced further threats after the October 4 incident.

The uncle also claimed that Hussain had recorded the video in which he named the accused and described the alleged assault. He said the family wanted justice and hoped the circumstances leading to Hussain's death would be thoroughly examined. "He also said that if I am not getting justice while alive, I hope I'll get it after death. We demand justice for him," Sameer said.

Mother says accused allegedly invoked political connections

Hussain's mother, Kalima, said her son had been insulted during the dispute and that the accused allegedly claimed to have political connections that would protect them from consequences. "When he told them to change the torn note, they told him so many things, like you are poor, I will do anything with you, nothing will happen to me, I have political connections. Is it a crime to be poor?" she asked.

She said the family had lost a young son who was just days away from his 24th birthday. I want to tell the government that I have lost a young son. He was turning 24 on October 21," she said.

The uncle also alleged that Hussain's manager had been pressuring the family and disputing whether the delivery worker was on duty when the incident occurred. He said Hussain worked for a major e-commerce company and questioned whether the circumstances could have allowed him to receive better medical care. These claims have not been independently established.

(With PTI inputs)

(Disclaimer: This article does not intend to promote, encourage, or sensationalise self-harm or suicide in any form. If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress, suicidal thoughts, or a mental health crisis, please seek immediate professional help. In India, you can contact AASRA (24/7): 91-9820466726 or reach out to a trusted mental health professional, doctor, or local emergency services.)

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External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will embark on an official visit to Azerbaijan on October 23, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday. During the visit, Jaishankar is expected to hold talks with his Azerbaijani counterpart to review bilateral relations between the two countries.

The visit comes amid renewed diplomatic engagement between New Delhi and Baku, with recent meetings and official visits focusing on strengthening ties and exploring opportunities for greater cooperation.

India and Azerbaijan look to strengthen bilateral ties

On October 16, India's Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Abhay Kumar, presented his credentials to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. During the meeting, Kumar conveyed India's commitment to strengthening relations and expanding cooperation between the two countries. According to a statement shared by the Indian Embassy in Azerbaijan on X, Kumar affirmed that he would work towards deepening the longstanding bonds of friendship and mutual understanding between the people of India and Azerbaijan.

The discussions also highlighted the historical and cultural connections between the two countries, which the embassy described as a strong foundation for contemporary bilateral engagement. Both sides exchanged views on expanding cooperation across areas of mutual interest.

The meeting also referred to discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Aliyev in Bishkek. Kumar and Aliyev reaffirmed their resolve to elevate bilateral ties and explore new avenues of engagement, drawing on historical connections and mutual goodwill.

Kirti Vardhan Singh attended CICA summit in Baku

Last week, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh visited Azerbaijan to attend the seventh summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA). Addressing the plenary session in Baku on October 15, Singh highlighted India's guiding philosophy of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam", or "The World Is One Family". He said the principle reflected India's vision of promoting peace, cooperation, friendship and collective efforts to address shared challenges.

In a post on X, Singh said he had called on member states to unite against cross-border terrorism while emphasising the importance of cooperation and friendship.

Modi and Aliyev met on the sidelines of SCO summit

Earlier, on September 1, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Jaishankar's upcoming visit follows these recent diplomatic engagements and is expected to provide an opportunity for both countries to review their bilateral relationship and discuss ways to expand cooperation.

(With inputs from ANI)

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Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Thursday said, "Azam was, Azam is, and Azam will remain," after meeting senior party leader Azam Khan, a prominent Samajwadi Party leader, at Rampur jail in Uttar Pradesh. Yadav travelled to Rampur to meet Khan, who has been lodged in jail since November 17 of last year. The two leaders had last met in Lucknow on November 7, just 10 days before Khan was sent to jail. Their meeting on Thursday came after a gap of nearly a year and is being viewed as politically significant. The meeting assumes importance ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections. 

Under Akhilesh Yadav's 'PDA' (Pichhda, Dalit, Alpsankhyak) formula, the 'A' stands for 'minorities'. Muslim voters,  along with the Yadav community, have traditionally been the Samajwadi Party's core voter base. A return to power would be difficult without their support.

Azam Khan’s influence stretches from western UP to Rohilkhand

There had been discontent within Azam Khan's camp in recent days over the perception that the Samajwadi Party was not standing firmly by the veteran leader. Azam Khan is a founding member of the Samajwadi Party and remains its most prominent Muslim face. 

Muslim voters account for around 22 per cent of the electorate across 100 Assembly constituencies in 20 districts of western Uttar Pradesh. In the Rohilkhand region, the Muslim voter share stands at 47.12 per cent in Moradabad, 50.57 per cent in Rampur, 45 per cent in Sambhal and 38 per cent in Amroha. Khan wields considerable influence in several constituencies across western UP and Rohilkhand.

Akhilesh Yadav had recently indicated that he would reach out to veteran party leaders who had become unhappy with the party. Today, after the meeting, the Samajwadi Party Chief also alleged that no other family has faced as much injustice as Azam Khan's family, reiterating his support for the jailed leader.

Against this backdrop, Yadav's meeting with Khan is being seen as an important political outreach ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, particularly as the SP seeks to consolidate its Muslim support base.

Owaisi has questioned Yadav over his distance from Azam Khan

Akhilesh Yadav's meeting with Azam Khan is also being viewed in the context of AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi's attacks on the Samajwadi Party over the issue. Owaisi had recently criticised Yadav in Rampur, questioning the SP’s perceived distance from the jailed leader.

Owaisi has held rallies in Muslim-dominated areas of Kanpur, Shravasti, Azamgarh and Rampur, targeting the Samajwadi Party. He has also been using the slogan, "Abdul will no longer lay out the carpet," in an apparent reference to his criticism of the political treatment of Muslim supporters.

The AIMIM chief is scheduled to address rallies in Kairana on October 25 and Meerut on November 14. His outreach in western Uttar Pradesh comes amid political attention on Muslim voters ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.

Owaisi has succeeded in disrupting SP's prospects in past 

Although Owaisi's AIMIM has failed to achieve electoral success in Uttar Pradesh in previous elections, its candidates have secured sizeable votes in some constituencies, where narrow margins of defeat have drawn attention to the party's potential impact on the contest. In the 2017 Assembly elections, AIMIM contested 38 seats, with its candidates forfeiting their security deposits in almost all constituencies. In the 2022 elections, the party fielded 96 candidates, all of whom lost, and secured just 0.43 per cent of the total votes.

In the Shahganj seat of Jaunpur during the 2022 assembly elections, the SP’s Shailendra Yadav 'Lalai' lost to the Nishad Party's Ramesh Singh by a margin of just 719 votes; in the same constituency, the AIMIM's Nayab Ahmed received over 8,000 votes. Similarly, in the Kursi constituency of Barabanki, the SP's Rakesh Kumar Verma lost to the BJP by a mere 217 votes, while Owaisi's candidate secured approximately 8,500 votes.

Akhilesh seeks a one-sided mandate from Muslims 

According to a survey, approximately 79 per cent of Muslims voted for the Samajwadi Party (SP) in the 2022 assembly elections, while 92 per cent of Muslims voted for the INDIA alliance in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Akhilesh Yadav is aiming to replicate this performance in the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections.

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The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has marked a new milestone in Jammu and Kashmir with the opening of an office by its affiliated organisation, the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), in Barsou village of Pulwama district. The development is significant as the area has long been associated with violence, terrorism and stone-pelting. The new office is located barely five kilometres from Lethpora, the site of the 2019 suicide attack in which 40 Indian security personnel lost their lives.

Situated in a quiet village beneath the Zabarwan hills, the BMS office occupies a modest, single-storey building. The premises are fitted with security cameras, and police personnel have been deployed outside for security. There is no prominent signboard or flag, only a small board bearing the word "Office." The new divisional office marks the first public and permanent presence of an RSS-linked organisation in the Kashmir Valley.

Why did BMS choose Pulwama for its office?

For the BMS, which has been working quietly in Kashmir for years, the decision to open its doors to the public marks a significant shift. Since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, the organisation has continued its work in the region, and the new office is being seen as a step towards greater public engagement. The organisation has 20 registered labour unions in the area.

Speaking to India TV, Sameer Kuche, the officer in charge of the Kashmir division, said the BMS is an independent organisation primarily focused on protecting workers' rights, dignity and legal entitlements. He said the opening of an office in a sensitive area such as Pulwama, and the willingness of people to associate with the organisation, indicated that its work was increasingly being viewed as an issue of workers' welfare rather than politics or religion. Kuche said the organisation's central objective was to help workers secure their legal rights and ensure their contribution to the country's development.

'Our only aim is to put India's development first'

Kuche said the organisation initially had to deal with misinformation and misconceptions about its work. However, workers and officers from Jammu and Kashmir Bank gradually joined the organisation and understood its primary objective, he added.

"Initially, there was some misinformation in society that we had to deal with. But gradually, as workers and officers from Jammu and Kashmir Bank joined us, they realised that our only aim is to put India's development first," Kuche said.

"As BMS's slogan says, ‘We will work in the nation's interest, and take full wages for that work.’ The working class builds the nation. Our slogan means that every worker and employee should contribute to making the country developed, while ensuring that every worker receives fair wages and their legal rights with dignity," he added.

Article 370 abrogation changed the situation: BMS official

Explaining why Pulwama was chosen for the office, Kuche cited two main reasons. First, he said, the situation had changed considerably after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. According to him, the region earlier witnessed frequent stone-pelting and shutdowns, while the atmosphere had since become more peaceful. He said young people were now focusing on education and improving their career prospects.

The second reason was geographical. Kuche said most of the unions associated with the BMS were based in South Kashmir. Pulwama's central location, he added, made the office more accessible to workers from both North and South Kashmir.

He said the challenges before 2019 had been considerably greater, but the organisation now had more than 20 unions and thousands of members associated with it. According to Kuche, workers joining the BMS are not questioned about their religion or political affiliations. Instead, the organisation focuses on how it can best serve them and their fellow workers.

BMS says workers' welfare remains its priority

Kuche said the BMS had a straightforward objective: to contribute to nation-building while ensuring that workers receive their legal entitlements, dignity and respect. "Our thinking is ‘Nation First, India First’, and our main mission is to work for the welfare and development of every worker," he added.

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An earthquake of magnitude 7.0 on Thursday struck Tibet at around 8:03 PM IST, at a depth of 173 km, the National Center for Seismology said in a statement. The China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC) further confirmed that the earthquake struck at around 10.33 pm local time (1433 GMT) in a county in Nagqu, northern Tibet. The epicentre was located at a depth of 10 km, CENC data showed.

Earthquake comes weeks after deadly flash floods hit the region

Notably, this earthquake comes weeks after deadly flash floods hit the region, raising concerns over natural disasters in the Himalayan region. At this time, there was no immediate information available on casualties or damage caused by Thursday's earthquake.

Earlier, an ice-rock avalanche near the Nepal-Tibet border on August 26 triggered devastating flash floods that swept away homes, roads and bridges, damaged hydropower projects and left thousands missing.

The development comes as the death toll from the devastating Nepal-Tibet flash floods surged to 1,243 as rescuers battled rain and debris to trace those believed to be trapped in the tunnels along the course of the Bhotekoshi river and underground powerhouses in the Himalayan nation.

Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah said the disaster's link to climate change must be strongly raised with the international community, as symbolic funerals were held by families of locals still missing after last week's flash floods.

Flash flood death toll has surged to 1,222

The death toll has surged to 1,222 as more bodies were recovered from eight districts affected by the flood, while 4,875 people remain missing a week after the floods devastated several towns and villages in the country, according to Nepal Police. Security forces have recovered 348 dead bodies from Chitawan district, 218 from Nawalparasi East, 208 from Nawalparasi West, and 155 from Nuwakot. Similarly, 127 bodies were recovered from Rasuwa, 69 from Gorkha, 60 from Dhading and 38 from Tanahu, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority.

Among the missing people, 583 were foreigners. The joint forces of security personnel, including the Nepal Army, have so far rescued 11,993 people using helicopters and land routes. Around 21,314 security personnel have been mobilised for the search and rescue operations.

The flash floods, triggered by an ice-rock avalanche near the Nepal-Tibet border on August 26, devastated towns and villages in northern and central Nepal, leaving a trail of destruction and thousands of people missing.On the Chinese side, the death toll in the flash flood that struck Gyirong county in Tibet near the Nepal border has increased to 21, with 541 others were missing.

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Earthquake of magnitude 4.9 hits Uttarakhand, tremors felt in Delhi-NCR

Over 40,000 electricity department employees on Thursday started a three-day strike against the entry of a private power distribution company in Gurugram and Nuh, leading to disrupted supplies in several residential and industrial areas due to unattended breakdown complaints. In this regard, the Haryana Bijli Karamchari and Engineers Joint Sangharsh Morcha called for a three-day strike after the state's power sector regulator, HERC, on October 19 granted a licence to a private company to supply electricity in Gurugram and Nuh districts along with the existing state-owned discoms.

40,000 electricity department employees join the strike

These 40,000 electricity department employees have joined the strike, which saw a widespread impact across the state, disrupting electricity supply, water services, industrial production and several essential activities, the forum of employees' union said in a statement.

In an order dated October 19, the HERC granted a parallel electricity distribution licence to Eleven Power Private Limited for 25 years in both revenue districts under Section 14 of the Electricity Act, 2003.

It should be noted that the Haryana Electricity Regulatory Commission (HERC), a three-member statutory body, is responsible for regulation of the power sector in the state. The state government, on the recommendation of a selection committee, appoints the chairperson and members of the commission.

CM Saini says state govt will represent employees' case

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Wednesday said the state government will represent the employees' case before the Appellate Tribunal for Electricity (APTEL) against HERC's decision. Saini said the government is ready to engage lawyers trusted by the power workers' unions to pursue the case.

Saini also held a review meeting with administrative secretaries to assess arrangements for the three-day strike. Meanwhile, the Joint Front, representing the striking employees, said that with almost the entire workforce participating, numerous 33 kV and 11 kV feeders affected by breakdowns remained out of service.

Electricity supply disrupted in several residential areas

Electricity supply was disrupted in several urban and rural residential areas. Industrial production was also affected due to the disruption of power supply to industrial feeders. Electricity complaint centres, substations and offices at the sub-divisional, divisional and circle levels were largely deserted, the forum said.

Most constituent organisations of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha, along with Sarv Karamchari Sangh Haryana and workers' organisations, including CITU, AITUC, INTUC, extended support to the strike and organised demonstrations at various locations.

With inputs from PTI

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Indian Railways has announced relief for passengers planning to travel home during major festivals such as Diwali and Chhath Puja. In view of the surge in passenger demand, Northern Railway and other railway zones have decided to add extra AC coaches to 10 special trains operating on key routes to accommodate more passengers and improve the chances of getting confirmed tickets.

Heavy crowds and long waiting lists are common during the festive season, often making it difficult for passengers to secure confirmed reservations. The addition of extra AC coaches is expected to increase seat availability and ease travel for passengers heading home for the festivals, especially for Chhath Puja. 

Here's a list of 10 special trains 

If you are planning to travel to or from Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, or Bihar, be sure to check the schedule for these 10 selected special trains:

Relief for passengers from long waiting lists

During the festive season, seats on regular trains get fully booked months in advance, forcing many passengers to endure the hardships of traveling in general compartments or cancel their journeys altogether. However, the addition of extra AC coaches to these 10 major special trains will significantly increase the availability of berths. Passengers traveling on busy routes---such as those connecting Anand Vihar, New Delhi, Varanasi, Patna, Muzaffarpur, Barauni, and Amritsar---will benefit the most from this.

The Indian Railways advises passengers to secure their reservations on these special trains well in advance---via the official IRCTC website or app---to avoid the festive rush and last-minute inconvenience. With the addition of extra coaches, your chances of obtaining a confirmed ticket have increased significantly.

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Delhi Police has arrested content creator Amir Shokeen in connection with an alleged incident of racial abuse involving a tribal youth from Tripura. The case has triggered widespread outrage after a video showing the young man being allegedly mocked and subjected to public humiliation in Delhi went viral on social media. According to the allegations, Shokeen referred to the youth as the "President of China" and taunted him by calling him Chinese. The incident has sparked strong reactions across the Northeast and Delhi, with political leaders demanding strict action against those responsible. The police action comes amid growing calls for accountability over the alleged racial mistreatment of people from the northeastern states.

Case registered under BNS sections 192, 196, 352 and 353

Delhi Police have registered a case against Shokeen at Sadar Bazar police station under Sections 192, 196, 352 and 353 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The accused reportedly has previous criminal cases registered against him as well. According to the information provided, earlier cases involved provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including Section 323 for voluntarily causing hurt, Section 324 for voluntarily causing hurt using dangerous weapons or means, Section 504 for intentional insult with the intent to provoke a breach of peace, and Section 506 for criminal intimidation.

The latest case follows the circulation of the video showing the alleged mistreatment of the Tripura youth. The incident has brought the issue of racial discrimination against people from the Northeast back into public discussion.

Kiren Rijiju promises strict action against accused

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju reacted strongly to the incident and assured that action would be taken against the accused. In a post on X, Rijiju said the delay in filing an official complaint would not prevent the police from taking action. "This wicked person will be punished. There was certainly a delay in filing an official complaint, but Delhi Police and Tripura Police will teach him a strong lesson. Those who tolerate such bad behaviour in society are also responsible for spreading hatred," Rijiju wrote. His statement came amid demands for strict action over the alleged racial abuse of the young man from Tripura.

Tripura CM directs DGP to coordinate with Delhi Police

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has also taken up the matter, directly instructing the state's Director General of Police to contact Delhi Police and ensure prompt and stringent legal action. The intervention reflects the concern surrounding the incident in Tripura, where the alleged mistreatment of a young person from the state has drawn attention and prompted demands for accountability.

BJP alleges accused has links with Congress

The political controversy has widened, with the BJP claiming that Shokeen is associated with the Congress party. The Tripura BJP began its social media post on the issue with the words "SHAME ON CONGRESS" and demanded the strictest punishment for those responsible for the alleged racial attack. 

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Class 9 student stabbed to death in Delhi's Pitampura over Instagram comment, four minors held

Oura just launched the Ring 5 in India, making it the freshest addition to its smart ring lineup. This new model is sleeker and smaller than the Oura Ring 4, with improved sensors and some AI-driven health monitoring tools. It now tracks your heart health, picks up on breathing issues while you sleep, and covers workouts more thoroughly. Plus, there is a bigger wellness platform that delivers personalised health insights and gives you more control over your data.

Oura Ring 5: Price in India and availability

You can pre-order the Oura Ring 5 right now in India, starting at Rs 39,900 for Silver and Black. If you want something fancier in Gold, Deep Rose, Stealth, and Brushed Silver versions, then the price will go up to Rs 50,900. Sizes run from 6 to 13, and each ring comes with its own charger that fits perfectly. Orders are open through Amazon and Croma stores across the country.

Oura is also offering a paid membership at Rs 599 per month, unlocking extra features in the app.

Oura Ring 5: Design and specifications

The Ring 5 is 40 per cent smaller than the old version, using lightweight titanium and boasting a tougher coating that is supposed to resist scratches. It has an IP68 rating, so you can dunk it up to 100 meters underwater and not worry.

The sensors have been revamped, too, with smaller domes, advanced LEDs, and 12 signal pathways which aim for more accurate data regardless of finger shape or skin tone. Battery life is solid; Oura says that it will last up to nine days on a single charge, but real-world numbers will depend on which size you pick and how much you use it.

Oura Ring 5 Health Features: Blood pressure signals and health radar

Health-wise, Oura added a feature called Health Radar; think of it as an upgrade over Symptom Radar. It looks at your biometric trends and includes Blood Pressure Signals and Nighttime Breathing monitoring. Blood Pressure Signals is not the same as a standard blood pressure cuff; it highlights trends linked to cardiovascular strain without giving you exact systolic or diastolic numbers. Nighttime Breathing checks for disturbance trends over the past month, helping you spot changes in your sleep patterns.

For workouts, Live Activity Tracking now lets you follow your exercise live in the app. There is also GLP-1 Insights for people using GLP-1 medications, expanding the metabolic health tools.

AI Health tools, Health Records and other features

Oura beefed up its software, adding Oura Health Records to combine clinical health info with ring data. The company have teamed up with Counsel Health to roll out smarter AI healthcare support. The improved Advisor AI delivers personalised recommendations, aiming to help you track your health trends, though none of this replaces actual medical advice.

Other handy features: Locate helps you find a lost ring or charging case. Data Deletion lets you choose and remove chunks of health data from your history.

All in all, the Oura Ring 5 brings more accurate tracking and smarter features to the table. But with a higher price tag and an extra cost for a membership, you should weigh the pros before buying.

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Osteoporosis can weaken bones gradually over several years without causing obvious symptoms. A person may feel perfectly healthy even as their bones become less dense and more vulnerable to fractures. Often described as a "silent" disease, osteoporosis may go unnoticed until a fracture occurs.

Although the condition is commonly associated with ageing, bone health is influenced by lifestyle choices throughout life. Poor nutrition, inadequate calcium and vitamin D intake, physical inactivity, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can all affect bone strength over time.Dr Vishal Lapshia, Consultant Orthopaedic and Joint Replacement Surgeon at AIMS Hospital, Dombivli, explains how everyday habits may contribute to weaker bones and why taking care of bone health early can help reduce the risk of future fractures.

Everyday habits that may weaken your bones

1. Not getting enough calcium and vitamin D

Calcium is essential for maintaining bone strength, while vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium. Consistently failing to get enough of these nutrients through diet and other appropriate sources may affect bone health over time.

A balanced diet that includes calcium-rich foods and adequate vitamin D can help support healthy bones. People concerned about deficiencies should seek appropriate medical advice rather than starting supplements without guidance.

2. Sitting for most of the day

Spending long hours sitting with very little physical activity can affect both bone strength and muscle fitness. Bones respond to the demands placed on them, making regular movement an important part of maintaining bone health.

Walking and other weight-bearing activities suited to an individual's fitness level can help support bone strength. Breaking up long periods of sitting with movement is also a practical way to become more active.

3. Avoiding strength training

Bones and muscles work together to support movement and stability. As people age, maintaining muscle mass becomes increasingly important for balance and reducing the risk of falls.

Appropriate resistance and strength exercises can help maintain muscle fitness and support healthy bones. Beginners and people with existing medical conditions should choose exercises suited to their abilities and seek professional guidance when needed.

4. Smoking

Smoking is associated with poorer bone health and a higher risk of fractures. Although its effects may not be immediately noticeable, continued smoking can be a concern for long-term skeletal health.

Quitting smoking is an important step towards improving overall health. People who find it difficult to stop can seek support from a healthcare professional.

5. Regularly consuming excessive alcohol

Heavy alcohol consumption can interfere with bone health. It may also affect balance and coordination, increasing the likelihood of falls and the fractures that can follow.

Limiting alcohol intake is therefore an important consideration when looking after bone health, particularly for people who already have risk factors for osteoporosis.

6. Following restrictive diets

Highly restrictive diets can make it difficult to obtain enough protein, calcium, vitamin D and other nutrients needed to maintain healthy bones and muscles.

A balanced eating pattern that provides adequate nutrition is important for supporting bone strength. People following restrictive diets should pay attention to their nutritional needs and seek professional advice if they are concerned about deficiencies.

7. Ignoring bone health because you feel fine

One of the biggest challenges with osteoporosis is that it may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. The absence of pain does not necessarily mean that bones are strong.

People with risk factors such as increasing age, a family history of osteoporosis, previous fractures, prolonged use of certain medicines or significant hormonal changes may need an assessment of their bone health. A healthcare professional can help determine whether further evaluation is appropriate.

How to protect your bones before problems develop

Prevention begins well before the first fracture. Eating a balanced diet, getting adequate calcium and vitamin D, staying physically active and including suitable weight-bearing and strength exercises can all help support bone health. Avoiding smoking and limiting excessive alcohol consumption are also important steps. Maintaining muscle strength and balance can further help reduce the risk of falls.

Since osteoporosis can develop without obvious warning signs, paying attention to bone health throughout life is important. Recognising potential risk factors and seeking medical advice when needed can help people take timely steps to protect their bones.

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday spoke with PM Modi and invited him to participate in Israel’s Independence Day celebrations alongside Indian pilot Smit Machchhar, whom he described as heroic. In a post on X, Netanyahu said PM Modi thanked him for the invitation and highlighted the close counterterrorism cooperation between the two countries.

India and Israel are fighting terrorism together: PM Modi told Netanyahu 

“I spoke with my friend, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and invited him to light the torch alongside a brave Indian pilot on Israel’s Independence Day. PM Modi thanked me for the invitation and said that on land and in the air, India and Israel are fighting terrorism together. He also commended the strong and decades-old ties between us. He expressed his appreciation for the courageous and long-standing relationship between us,” Netanyahu said.

We exchanged views on recent developments in West Asia: PM Modi 

On the other hand, PM Modi said he received a phone call from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. “We reviewed the sustained momentum in our bilateral ties and reaffirmed our commitment to further strengthening our partnership. We also exchanged views on recent developments in West Asia and underscored the urgent need to restore peace and stability in the region,” he said.

During their phone call, both the leaders also welcomed the sustained momentum in India-Israel relations and reaffirmed their shared commitment to further strengthening the Special Strategic Partnership between the two countries.

"The leaders also exchanged views on recent developments in West Asia and underscored the urgent need to restore peace and stability in the region. Prime Minister Modi reiterated India's call for dialogue and diplomacy as the way forward," the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said in a statement.

PM Modi had made a state visit to Israel from February 25 to 26

It should be noted that PM Modi had made a state visit to Israel from February 25 to 26. The two leaders had then agreed and decided to elevate the Strategic Partnership to a new level -- 'A Special Strategic Partnership for Peace, Innovation and Prosperity'.

That time, PM Modi had said that India's security interest was linked to peace and stability in the Middle East, adding that New Delhi fully supported the Gaza Peace Initiative. They also had telephonic talks during the US-Iran and Iran conflict.

Earlier this month, Netanyahu had called Indian pilot Smit Machchhar a "hero of the entire world" for foiling an alleged attempt by his co-pilot to crash an Israel-bound flight, as he spoke with him over the phone. Captain Machchhar was attacked and seriously injured by his co-pilot in the cockpit of flydubai flight FZ1073 while the aircraft was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv last month.

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PM Modi receives call from Netanyahu; discusses West Asia tensions, India-Israel bilateral ties

The recent episode of Bigg Boss 20 took an emotional turn as Mahhi Vij broke down in tears following a confrontation with Arishfa Khan. During a conversation with her fellow contestants, Mahhi opened up about the challenges of being a single mother and revealed why she refused to accept alimony or maintenance from her former husband, Jay Bhanushali, even after a judge advised her to reconsider her decision.

Jay Bhanushali reacts as Mahhi Vij opens up about refusing alimony on BB 20

However, Jay Bhanushali reacted to Mahhi Vij's comments, saying that money had never come between them. He assured Mahhi that she and their daughter, Tara, would always be his responsibility, regardless of their marital status. The caption read, "Zindagi ne bahut kuch sikhaya, par haar maanna kabhi nahi. Meri beti meri sabse badi strength hai. Thank you @ijaybhanushali." Take a look below:

For the unversed, Mahhi Vij and Jay Bhanushali announced their separation on January 4, 2026, after years of marriage. The two continue to co-parent their daughter, Tara.

What did Jay Bhanushali say?

Reacting to Mahhi's statements, Jay commented on Mahhi Vij's Instagram post featuring the same clip from the Bigg Boss 20 episode, in which she was seen having an emotional conversation with her fellow contestants.

He shared a heartfelt message, assuring her that she could always count on him during difficult times. He reiterated that money had never come between them and never would. Jay wrote. "Be strong, Mahhi. We both know we'll always be there for each other in hard times. Money was never between us and never will be." Take a look below:

Jay also spoke about his responsibility towards Mahhi and their daughter, Tara, saying that their relationship would not change the love and respect he has for them. "You and Tara will always be my responsibility for life. A marriage status can never change the love and respect I have for you both. I'm always here," he added.

Mahhi Vij opens up about refusing alimony on Bigg Boss 20 

While speaking to Aasif Khan and Yung, Mahhi shared her frustration with Arishfa but admitted that she regretted her earlier comments. She said, "Arishfa is a liar. I want to talk to her the way I talk to my daughter, Tara, but she is very disrespectful. I felt bad about what I said to her that day. I am a single mother, and only I know how I manage every day."

Explaining why she refused to accept alimony from Jay, Mahhi said, "I am a single mother, and only I know how I manage each day. Jay encourages me to go out and live my life. He tells me that I never go anywhere and spend all my time at home looking after Tara. My life revolves around my daughter. I did not take any alimony because I want to secure my child's future on my own."

She further added, "I don't ask anyone for money, not even Jay, because I feel it is his hard-earned money. When I was in court, the judge asked me four times to accept the alimony, but I refused. Jay has never stopped me from taking anything. I know he would give me access to everything he has, but I don't want that. He has worked hard for his money, spending 16 hours on sets. I feel he has earned every bit of it."

Bigg Boss streams every day at 9 pm on JioHotstar and also airs on Colors TV from 10.30 pm onwards. 

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Liquor lovers in Uttar Pradesh will have to plan ahead as liquor sales and serving will be prohibited across the state on October 23 and 27 in view of the Legislative Council (MLC) elections. As per an official order, all liquor outlets will remain closed on polling and counting days, while bars, clubs, hotels and restaurants serving alcohol will also be prohibited from doing so.

The two dates have been declared dry days to ensure that the elections are conducted peacefully and fairly. According to an order issued by District Magistrate Vishakh G., the restrictions have been imposed to facilitate the smooth conduct of the electoral process. Polling for 11 Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council seats is scheduled for October 23, while counting of votes will take place on October 27.

Check what will remain closed

The restrictions will cover a wide range of establishments dealing in liquor and other intoxicating substances. According to the district administration's order, country liquor shops, foreign liquor outlets, beer shops, model shops and composite liquor shops will remain shut on both dates. Shops selling bhang and toddy will also be required to close for the specified period.

The prohibition extends beyond retail outlets. Bars, clubs, restaurants and hotels where alcoholic beverages are served will not be permitted to serve liquor on October 23 and 27. Canteens operated by the armed forces and paramilitary forces will also fall under the restrictions. The order directs all excise licence holders to ensure that their establishments remain closed on the designated dates.

Violating dry day rules may invite legal action

The district administration has warned that strict legal action will be taken against those found violating the order. This includes selling liquor or keeping establishments open in contravention of the restrictions. The administration has also clarified that liquor traders will not be entitled to compensation for business losses resulting from the mandatory closure. The restrictions are intended to prevent disruptions and help maintain law and order during polling and vote counting for the 11 Legislative Council seats.

UP MLC elections to cover 11 graduate and teacher constituencies

The elections are being held for five Graduate Constituencies and six Teachers' Constituencies in Uttar Pradesh. Voting will be conducted through ballot papers. The five Graduate Constituencies are Lucknow, Varanasi, Agra, Meerut and Allahabad-Jhansi. The six Teachers' Constituencies are Lucknow, Agra, Varanasi, Meerut, Bareilly-Moradabad and Gorakhpur-Faizabad.

Unlike Assembly elections, the MLC polls in these constituencies are restricted to registered and eligible graduates and teachers, as applicable to the respective electoral rolls. This makes the voting process different from general elections, in which all eligible registered voters can participate.

BJP and Samajwadi Party focus on MLC contests

The elections have drawn attention from both the BJP and the Samajwadi Party, with leaders from the two parties campaigning for their candidates. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has addressed rallies in support of BJP candidates in several places, including Ghaziabad, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Agra, Mirzapur and Bareilly. Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, along with state ministers and BJP MLAs, have also been involved in the campaign. In the previous MLC elections for these 11 seats, the Samajwadi Party won six seats, while the BJP secured five.

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India beat New Zealand by four wickets in the first of the five-match T20I series against New Zealand. They were asked to chase 226 runs in the middle, which needed a strong start from openers Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson and they did, stitching a 93-run partnership in the middle. The keeper-batter went berserk in the middle, completing his half-century in the powerplay itself, while Abhishek made 29 runs off 12 balls.

During his stay in the middle, the southpaw smacked three maximums and courtesy of which he broke Rohit Sharma’s record for most sixes in the powerplay in T20I cricket. Abhishek holds the record now with 99 maximums to his name in the first six overs, while Rohit had 98. Former New Zealand international Martin Guptill stands third with 97 sixes. 

Most sixes in powerplay in T20Is:

Meanwhile, after Abhishek and Samson departed, things got complicated for a while, before Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel put up a 45-run stand. That brought India back into the contest, which was slipping away from their hands. However, they still needed to put up something spectacular to beat New Zealand at home. 

That spectacular knock eventually came from Naman Dhir, who played his first game away from home. The all-rounder stole the show with his unbeaten 42-run blitzkrieg off 15 balls as India won the game with only two balls remaining.

Complete team game today: Samson

Samson, who was adjudged the Player of the Match for his 67, credited the team for their superb batting effort. He was happy with his own contribution and the start that he offered, but more so as it was a proper team game. 

“It feels really good. I think, yes, we are just in the moment where the match has been won. Whatever contribution you make, I think it feels good to end up on the winning side. So it's a really great contribution from all of us in the team. So it was completely a team game today. So really happy that we started off nicely for the series,” Samson said after the game.

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US President Donald Trump on Thursday claimed that he considered renaming the Atlantic Ocean as ‘Trump Ocean’ on digital maps but dropped the idea after Google CEO Sundar Pichai reportedly pushed back against the proposal.

Trump recalls his talks with Sundar Pichai

Recalling his talks with Sundar Pichai, Trump said he had approached Google about changing the name displayed on its maps, only for Pichai to reject the request. “I called Google Maps to change the name of the Atlantic Ocean to Trump Ocean. Sundar said, ‘No, no, no,’” Trump said. He said, ‘Please don't ask us to do that.’

Trump said Google told him it could not make such a change because oceans span multiple countries. He spoke about the idea during a campaign rally in Dalton, Georgia and added that he had contacted Google to discuss renaming one of the oceans after himself, but the company pushed back.

How Sundar Pichai saved Atlantic Ocean from being renamed as Trump Ocean?

As per the updates from Trump, Google representatives told him that changing the name of an ocean was different from renaming other geographical features because oceans extend across several countries.

The US President further claimed that the mapping and navigation company could not comply with his request because the ocean spans multiple countries. "He said oceans are different, sir. You know, they cover, they cover a lot of countries," Trump said.

However, Trump later clarified that his suggestion was meant as a joke, adding that it was not among the worst ideas he had proposed. This latest remark came after Trump previously floated the idea of renaming major geographical features after the United States or himself.

Trump had floated ocean renaming proposal earlier this month

Earlier, Trump raised the possibility of renaming either the Atlantic or Pacific Ocean, suggesting names such as "Trump Ocean" or "Ocean of the Americas", according to an October 10 report by The Washington Post.

However, he argued that the United States should have an ocean named after it and suggested that he wanted the change to take place before leaving office. He also joked about naming an ocean after himself.

Earlier, Trump made efforts to rename geographical features

Earlier, he also made efforts to rename geographical features. In 2025, he had moved to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America, a decision that triggered diplomatic tensions with Mexico and a dispute with the Associated Press over the terminology used in its coverage.

Prior to that in August 2026, Trump also renamed Lake Ontario, which lies between the United States and Canada, as Lake America amid tensions with Canadian leaders over trade and tariffs. It must be noted that private mapping companies, including Google Maps, have generally adopted the new names for US users following Trump's moves, although the changes have not necessarily been recognised internationally.

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At least six people were killed, and 40 people were injured after a bus lost control and crashed into a tree in Manendragarh, located in the Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur (MCB) district of Chhattisgarh on Thursday (October 22), officials said. The accident took place within the jurisdiction of the Kelhari police station. 

According to the reports, women and young children were among the passengers on the bus. Following the crash, cries of pain and distress were heard at the scene. The injured were later rushed to a hospital for treatment.

The accident took place shortly after noon near Semarmathani turn when the bus, with 46 passengers, was heading towards Kelhari village from Manendragarh.

39 injured undergoing treatment 

Dr Swapnil Tiwari, superintendent of Manendragarh Hospital, confirmed that 40 injured passengers were receiving medical treatment. He also said that around six people had died in the accident. The injured, including women and children, are undergoing treatment at Manendragarh Hospital.

What did the police say?

Superintendent of Police Ratna Singh confirmed the deaths of six people. According to preliminary information, the bus's brakes might have failed, potentially causing the accident. However, the exact cause of the crash is yet to be officially established, and further details are awaited.

The SP also said the mini-bus was carrying more passengers than its permitted capacity.

Regarding this bus accident in Manendragarh, former MLA Gulab Kamro has demanded compensation from the government. He has called for financial assistance of Rs 1 crore each for the families of the deceased and Rs 10 lakh each for those injured.  

In a separate incident a few days ago, three people out for a morning walk were hit by a speeding mini-cargo vehicle in Chhattisgarh’s Mungeli district. All three died in the accident, including a cousin of BJP MLA Punnulal Mohle.

CM expresses grief

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai expressed grief over the accident and announced financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh each to the kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to each injured person.

"The untimely demise of 6 people in a horrific bus accident on the Manendragarh-Kelhari road is deeply distressing. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in this heart-wrenching incident," the CM said.

He further said that the state government will provide financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh each to the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each to those injured.

(Report: Sikandar Khan)

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Air India has introduced a multi-course fine dining experience for business class passengers on its long-haul and ultra-long-haul international flights. The enhanced service, which brings restaurant-style dining to the skies, has been launched on flights connecting India with the UK, including London Heathrow, London Gatwick and Birmingham.

The airline plans to progressively expand the service across its Airbus A350, Boeing 787-9 and Boeing 777-300 aircraft. The initiative is part of Air India's broader efforts to enhance its premium travel experience through improved onboard hospitality, personalised service and upgraded dining.

What does Air India's new business class dining experience offer?

The new service moves away from the traditional tray-based meal presentation and introduces a more structured, restaurant-inspired dining format. Passengers are served individually plated courses on linen-laid tables, with dedicated tableware for appetisers, main courses and desserts. The multi-course format is designed to allow passengers to enjoy their meals at a more leisurely pace. The service combines refined presentation with personalised attention and greater flexibility, allowing travellers to engage with the dining experience according to their preferences.

According to the airline, the initiative aims to bring greater elegance and attention to detail to onboard dining while retaining the warmth and authenticity associated with Indian hospitality. Rajesh Dogra, Chief Customer Experience Officer at Air India, said the introduction of course-by-course meal service in business class was another step in the airline's wider transformation journey. The initiative, he said, aims to create a globally benchmarked premium travel experience through thoughtful design, refined presentation and personalised service, while remaining rooted in Indian hospitality.

New tableware celebrates Indian design and craftsmanship

Alongside the upgraded meal service, Air India has introduced a bespoke tableware collection for its Vista Verve business class service. The collection includes dedicated plates for appetisers, main courses, snacks, desserts and cheese, along with a signature glass and a specially designed espresso cup. The new pieces are intended to create a more cohesive dining experience, with a distinctive design identity that reflects the airline's approach to premium hospitality.

One of the collection's defining elements is the Martaban-shaped cruet set. Inspired by traditional Indian jars used to preserve flavours, memories and family recipes, the design reimagines a familiar object from Indian homes for the onboard dining experience. The Martaban is positioned as a signature element of Air India's table setting, combining references to Indian heritage with contemporary design.

Air India's wider premium travel upgrade

The new dining service builds on the airline's broader investments in its premium customer experience. These include refreshed food and beverage menus, an award-winning wine selection, enhanced tea offerings and service innovations aimed at improving comfort on long-haul journeys.

Air India is also continuing its fleet transformation programme, which includes the induction of new Airbus A350 aircraft and Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners made for the airline. The programme also involves retrofitting its existing single-aisle and twin-aisle aircraft with new cabins and interiors.

Together, these initiatives are intended to create a more consistent and contemporary premium travel experience across the airline's network.

Key features of the new business class dining service

The enhanced experience includes individually plated multi-course meals, linen-laid tables, personalised service and bespoke tableware designed to reflect Air India's identity. The Martaban-shaped cruet set adds a distinct Indian design element to the dining experience.

The rollout will be expanded progressively across Air India's international long-haul and ultra-long-haul network, beginning with flights between India and the UK.

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OnePlus, a leading consumer electronics brand, is gearing up to launch a new sub-flagship phone, possibly called the OnePlus Turbo Pro or Turbo 7 Pro. So far, the company has not yet made anything official (name, features or release date) by the time of writing. If the rumours are said to be true, the handset is expected to drop later this year. Besides the zippy display, a monster 200-megapixel camera, and a battery that starts at 9,000 mAh.

Digital Chat Station, a well-known tipster, shared the details about the upcoming device on Weibo. Apparently, OnePlus has been planning to expand its Turbo lineup with a Pro model, which aims at end-of-2026 release.

OnePlus Turbo Pro: Specifications (Leaked)

As per the leaks, the handset will come with a 6.78-inch flat display with a sharp 1.5K resolution and a refresh rate up to 185Hz. Powered by Qualcomm’s still-to-be-announced SM8845 Pro chipset, the device will likely be running on Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 Pro, although nobody knows for sure. 

Talking about the camera, the handset will feature a 200-megapixel primary shooter, with a huge sensor. That kind of resolution shows that OnePlus is serious about detailed photos, but it will come down to how they process images and the quality of the camera software.

The leaks further suggest that the phone will be backed by a 9,000 mAh (at least to expect), and OnePlus is further testing batteries up to 10,000 mAh in early prototypes. That’s huge, even for power users.

There are also rumours related to the external cooling fan accessory, which is possibly designed for use with a special case. That would help keep the phone cool during intense gaming, but we do not know yet how it works or if it will even be available.

Launch timeline

As per the leaks, the handset is expected to launch around the later part of the year. Still, OnePlus has not yet set a date or said if it is headed out of China.

Expected price

Some people are drawing comparisons to the OnePlus 16, which just launched in China at CNY 5,999 (about Rs 86,000). But no one really knows if these two phones are connected, and honestly, until OnePlus officially weighs in, all this info is just speculation.

For a bit of context, the Turbo series launched in China back in January 2026 with the OnePlus Turbo 6, which hit international markets as the OnePlus Nord 6 in April. The Turbo 6 uses the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chipset and sports a 9,000mAh battery with 80W SuperVOOC fast charging.

If the leaks are accurate, the Turbo Pro will bring a smoother screen, a sharper camera, and an even bigger battery. 

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Businesses and small online sellers could soon find it easier to comply with Goods and Services Tax (GST) requirements, with a fresh set of process reforms expected to take effect from November 1, 2026. The proposed changes include simpler GST registration for small sellers operating through e-commerce platforms, quicker processing of refunds, standardised documentation and a minimum threshold of Rs 10,000 for issuing show-cause notices.

An official said on Thursday that the measures approved by the 57th GST Council meeting on October 8 would be introduced in phases. Reforms that can be implemented through administrative measures are expected to take effect from November, while changes requiring amendments to the GST law are scheduled for April 1, 2027. The notifications and circulars covering the relevant process changes have received approval from the legal department and are expected to be issued on Friday, the official said.

GST reforms from November 1: What will change?

The upcoming changes focus on four major areas:

1. GST registration
2. Refund processing
3. Documentation requirements
4. Tax adjudication

The measures are intended to simplify procedures for taxpayers, reduce unnecessary paperwork and limit delays in dealing with tax authorities. Small businesses selling goods through e-commerce platforms are among the key beneficiaries. The proposed framework will make it easier for eligible sellers to obtain GST registrations in multiple states without establishing a physical office in every state where their goods are stored.

The reforms also seek to make registration applications more straightforward, automate eligible refund claims and reduce compliance-related disputes through a minimum threshold for issuing show-cause notices.

1. Easier GST registration for small e-commerce sellers

Small suppliers selling goods through e-commerce operators (ECOs) could benefit from a simplified registration process when operating across multiple states and Union Territories. Under the proposed arrangement, eligible sellers who do not have a physical presence in every state or Union Territory where they operate, and whose monthly transfer of input tax credit does not exceed Rs 2.5 lakh, will be able to declare an e-commerce operator's warehouse in that state or Union Territory as their Principal Place of Business (PPoB).

Sellers will still need to establish a genuine physical presence in at least one state, where the required physical verification and Aadhaar authentication will be completed. For registrations in other states, the consent of the e-commerce platform will allow the process to proceed without further intervention by a tax officer.

The move is expected to benefit around 9.5 lakh small sellers by helping them reach customers across the country without having to establish physical offices in every state where their goods are stored. The change is also intended to improve tax parity between competing e-commerce business models by making compliance less burdensome for smaller businesses.

2. GST registration paperwork to become simpler

The government is also planning to standardise the documentation and information required for GST registration. A comprehensive circular will specify what applicants need to submit, helping taxpayers understand the requirements before filing their applications.

The GST registration form, GST REG-01, will include drop-down options for selecting the prescribed documents and information. This is expected to give applicants and tax officers greater clarity about the details required for registration.

The GST portal will also receive a more user-friendly interface, featuring clearer navigation, drop-down lists and tooltips to guide users through the application process. These changes are aimed at reducing application rejections and repeated queries caused by missing or incorrect information. By making the requirements clearer from the outset, the government expects registration applications to be processed more efficiently.

3. Faster GST refunds through automated processing

Refund processing is another major area covered by the proposed reforms, with greater reliance on automated systems expected to reduce delays and the need for manual intervention. Under the planned changes, eligible claims for a refund of the excess balance in the electronic cash ledger will be sanctioned automatically by the system, without requiring an officer to intervene. The time limit for issuing an acknowledgement or a deficiency memo in refund cases will also be reduced from 15 days to 10 days.

For refund claims involving zero-rated supplies and the inverted duty structure, 90 per cent of the amount claimed will be sanctioned provisionally through an automated system, without officer intervention. The system will identify and evaluate the risks associated with claims before processing the provisional refund.

Zero-rated supplies generally include exports and qualifying supplies to Special Economic Zones. An inverted duty structure arises when the tax paid on inputs is higher than the tax applicable to the output supplies, potentially leaving businesses with accumulated input tax credit. The proposed changes could help eligible businesses access funds sooner and ease cash-flow pressures associated with pending refunds.

4. GST show-cause notices to have a Rs 10,000 threshold

The proposed reforms also include a minimum threshold of Rs 10,000 for issuing GST show-cause notices. The measure is intended to reduce compliance costs, discourage avoidable disputes and limit litigation over smaller amounts.

Show-cause notices are issued by tax authorities to seek an explanation from a taxpayer before taking a proposed adverse action. Setting a minimum threshold for their issuance is intended to reduce the burden associated with proceedings involving relatively small sums.

The official input does not specify further details about the scope or exceptions to this threshold. Taxpayers should therefore refer to the final notifications and circulars for the applicable conditions once they are issued.

Why are the GST process changes being introduced?

The reforms approved by the 57th GST Council meeting on October 8 focus on making tax administration more efficient and reducing procedural hurdles for businesses. For small e-commerce sellers, simplified registration could make it easier to expand operations across state boundaries. For other taxpayers, clearer documentation requirements and a more accessible GST portal could reduce errors during registration.

Automated refunds could improve the flow of working capital, while the proposed threshold for show-cause notices is intended to reduce unnecessary compliance burdens and disputes. The rollout will take place in stages. Changes that can be introduced through administrative measures are expected from November 1, 2026, while measures requiring amendments to GST law are scheduled for April 1, 2027.

(With inputs from PTI)

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India secured all three medals in the men’s high jump T63 final at the Asian Para Games 2026 on Thursday, October 22, with Shailesh Kumar leading the podium sweep alongside Varun Bhati and Rahul Saroha at Nagoya City Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium in Japan.

Shailesh won gold after clearing 1.89 metres, surpassing the previous Asian Para Games record of 1.80 metres established by compatriot Sharad Kumar at the 2014 edition in Incheon, South Korea. Varun took silver, while Haryana’s Rahul completed the Indian sweep with bronze.

Notably, the contest remained closely fought between Shailesh and Varun until the bar reached 1.84 metres. Shailesh then cleared 1.87 metres and 1.89 metres to pull ahead and secure the title with a new Games record.

Athletes from the T42 and T63 classifications competed in the six-participant final. The Philippines’ Edwin Enguito finished fourth, followed by Myanmar’s Zaw Min Tun in fifth and Pakistan’s Muhammad Nadeem in sixth.

Meanwhile, the result marked India’s third complete podium sweep at the ongoing Games. Devender Kumar had previously led an Indian clean sweep in the men’s discus throw F44/64 event, while Sachin Khilari spearheaded another in the men’s shot put F46 final.

Shailesh’s incredible records

For Shailesh, the gold adds to an impressive record at major international competitions. The Bihar-born athlete won the 2022 Asian Para Games title and the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships. At the world championships in New Delhi last year, he cleared 1.91 metres to claim gold and establish championship and Asian records in his classification.

His latest victory came a day after he collected bronze in the men’s long jump T42/T61/T63 event with a jump of 5.57 metres, finishing just 0.01 metres ahead of compatriot Mahendra Gurjar.

Now, Varun’s silver adds another continental medal to a career that includes bronze at the 2016 Rio Paralympics, three World Para Athletics Championships bronze medals and silver at the 2018 Asian Para Games. He also received the Arjuna Award.

Lastly, Rahul improved on his fourth-place finish at the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships, where he cleared 1.78 metres.

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India on Thursday (October 22) strongly condemned the latest attacks in Saudi Arabia that killed one Indian national and injured three others, stating that strikes targeting civilians and critical infrastructure were "completely unacceptable" and must stop immediately.

'Hope peace and normalcy return' 

The Ministry of External Affairs, in a statement, said, "We strongly condemn the continued attacks on civilian and energy infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, including the attack on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam and Saudi Aramco's Shaybah oil field in the Eastern Province on October 21. These attacks have unfortunately resulted in civilian deaths and injuries." 

According to the MEA, one Indian national died and two others were injured in the strike on Dammam's King Fahd International Airport, while another Indian was injured in the attack on Aramco's Shaybah oil field. "One Indian national unfortunately died, and two others were injured in the attack on Dammam airport, while another Indian national was injured in the attack on the Shaybah oil field."

The MEA also conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and wished speedy recovery to those injured. "We convey our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and wish speedy recovery to those injured. The Indian Embassy in Riyadh is in contact with the Saudi authorities and will provide all possible assistance," the MEA said.

India also reiterated that the attacks on civilian and critical infrastructure are completely unacceptable and must cease immediately. "We stand in solidarity with the people and the government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in safeguarding its sovereignty, and hope that peace and normalcy would return to the region at the earliest," the MEA said in a statement.

One Indian killed, 3 injured in attacks

An Indian national was killed and three others injured in separate attacks targeting critical infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, officials said on Thursday, amid a series of missile and drone strikes on key installations in the Gulf nation.

The Indian Embassy in Riyadh said Saudi authorities had informed it about the casualties following an attack on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, eastern Saudi Arabia, on Wednesday night.

Saudi Arabia's General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) said a Saudi citizen and an Indian resident were killed in the attack. The airport had also been targeted on October 11.

According to GACA, eight people, including two Indians, were injured in the attack. The injured also included Bangladeshi and Nepalese nationals.

The incident comes amid escalating drone and missile attacks targeting Saudi Arabia's airports, energy installations and other critical infrastructure. Iran-backed Houthi rebels have carried out a prolonged campaign against Saudi Arabia, although Saudi authorities have not publicly identified those responsible for the latest attack on Dammam airport.

Earlier this month, an Indian national was killed and several others injured in an attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh.

The Indian Embassy has issued advisories urging Indian nationals in Saudi Arabia to remain alert, follow instructions issued by local authorities and take shelter indoors during aerial attacks.

It has also cautioned them against filming or sharing images and videos of drone or missile interceptions and their impact sites, warning of possible legal consequences under Saudi law.

Saudi Arabia is home to approximately 2.74 million Indian nationals, who work across various sectors and form a significant link between the two countries.

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A controversy has erupted over the removal of at least 75 photographs from an exhibition by Rehan Vadra, son of Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and businessman Robert Vadra, at Delhi's Bikaner House. The issue came into the spotlight after Rehan alleged that he was asked to remove several photographs at the last minute, including an image of the Indian national flag. The controversy has drawn reactions from his parents and several Congress leaders, with Priyanka Gandhi and Robert Vadra publicly expressing their support for him. Bikaner House Management Society has now issued a statement explaining why some photographs were removed from the exhibition.

Why were Rehan Vadra's photographs removed?

The controversy began after Rehan raised concerns on Instagram over the removal of photographs from his exhibition, titled 'No Idea Is Final'. He alleged that the Bikaner House administration had directed him to remove several images shortly before the exhibition was scheduled to open. According to Rehan, he had submitted all the information related to the exhibition to Bikaner House by 3:30 pm on Wednesday (October 21). However, he claimed that more than 70 photographs were removed at the last moment, leaving only around 40 images on display.

Rehan also alleged that he was asked to remove a photograph of the national flag. He further claimed that photographs linked to protests in Delhi were objected to by the administration, which allegedly warned that the exhibition would not be allowed to proceed unless the images were taken down. The exhibition is scheduled to open at Bikaner House in Delhi at 7 pm on Thursday. The alleged last-minute changes have triggered a debate over the selection of photographs and the conditions imposed on the exhibition.

What did Bikaner House say in its statement?

Responding to the controversy, the Bikaner House Management Society said some photographs displayed as part of Rehan's exhibition did not comply with its policies. The management said the removal request was made on that basis, while clarifying that the remaining photographs continued to be displayed.

In its statement, the society described Bikaner House as a public cultural institution dedicated to promoting art and culture. It said exhibitions and related activities held at the venue must adhere to the policies of the Bikaner House Management Society. The statement offers the management's explanation for seeking the removal of certain images. However, the controversy has emerged after Rehan's allegations that the changes were demanded shortly before the exhibition's opening.

Priyanka Gandhi, Robert Vadra back Rehan

Rehan has received public support from his mother, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who expressed pride in her son and said she would stand by him. "When those in power become afraid of expression, understand that their strength has come to an end," Priyanka said, backing her son's right to express himself through his work. Robert Vadra also defended Rehan, stressing that the exhibition was an artistic undertaking and had no connection with politics. "I am proud of my son. His exhibition has nothing to do with politics. He is a photographer. During the Delhi protests, he took some photographs, which are part of his creativity," Robert Vadra said.

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Harry Brook stole the show against Sri Lanka in the ODI tri-series at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The England captain went berserk, scoring a 114-ball double century, breaking Shubman Gill’s record in the process for the fastest ODI double century. He also became the second non-opener after Glenn Maxwell to achieve the feat. 

Apart from that, Brook became the first England cricketer to score a double century in limited-overs cricket. He now holds the record for the highest individual score by a European cricketer in ODI history and the highest by an Englishman too, breaking former captain Ben Stokes’ record. 

England post 429 runs in first innings

Openers Tom Banton and Ben Duckett stitched a 74-run stand in the middle. Banton went on to score a half-century, while Duckett made 29 runs off 39 balls. Batting at three, Joe Root once again played a valuable knock of 69 runs. Alongside Brook, he built a 159-run stand, which pushed Sri Lanka out of the contest. Root eventually departed for 69 runs off 66 balls after which Brook produced a freak show in the middle.

He went on to smash 21 boundaries and 10 sixes, completing the double century. He ended up posting 202 runs on the board in 116 deliveries before Janith Liyanage got the better of him on the final delivery of the innings. 

Meanwhile, Will Jacks supported Brooks well in the middle. He didn’t take a backseat to enjoy Brook go about business, but also kept up with the momentum. The all-rounder smacked an unbeaten 66 runs off 30 balls only as England went on to post 429 runs on the board in the first innings. 

Sri Lanka now have a mountain to climb in the second innings. For England, they need to get the job done as the team is under pressure after losing the opening game to Pakistan. 

England (Playing XI): Ben Duckett, Tom Banton, Joe Root, Harry Brook (c), Jordan Cox (wk), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Gus Atkinson, Josh Tongue

Sri Lanka (Playing XI): Avishka Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Mendis (wk/c), Pavan Rathnayake, Sahan Arachchige, Janith Liyanage, Dasun Shanaka, Dunith Wellalage, Eshan Malinga, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka

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Rashmika Mandanna made a striking style statement in a sleek bottle-green velvet dress for her first appearance on Koffee With Karan season 9. She made a stunning debut as she arrived on the show with her husband, Vijay Deverakonda. The couple looked picture-perfect together; it was Rashmika's dress that caught every fashionista's attention.

The actor embraced understated glamour in a figure-skimming silhouette that combined a minimalist design with a luxurious finish. The outfit caught attention for its rich colour, clean lines and elegant fit. Rather than relying on elaborate embellishments, the dress kept the focus on its tailored shape and velvet texture.

Rashmika Mandanna's bottle-green velvet look

Rashmika wore a green tailored velvet maxi dress by luxury fashion label Alaïa. The dress features a scoop neckline, fixed shoulder straps and waist darts that create a fitted silhouette. Crafted from a viscose-blend velvet, the design offers a smooth, understated finish. The sleeveless design and floor-length cut lend the outfit a refined look, while the deep bottle-green shade adds to its richness. The overall styling keeps things minimal, allowing the fabric and silhouette to take centre stage.

Rashmika kept her beauty look elegant and understated, pairing the bottle-green velvet dress with long, loose waves and a centre-parted hairstyle. Her makeup featured a fresh, radiant base, softly defined eyes, sculpted cheeks and a nude lip, complementing the rich shade of her outfit without overpowering its minimalist appeal.

How much does Rashmika's Alaia dress cost?

Rashmika's dress is listed as the Green Tailored Velvet Maxi Dress by Alaia and is available through luxury retailer SSENSE. The dress is priced at $5,155, approximately Rs 4.86 lakh. The price places the outfit firmly in the luxury fashion category.

Understated glamour takes centre stage

Rashmika's look is an example of how a simple silhouette can make a strong fashion statement. The combination of a rich velvet fabric, a deep green shade and clean tailoring creates an elegant appearance without the need for heavy detailing.

With its minimalist design and luxurious texture, the Alaïa dress brings together contemporary styling and classic eveningwear appeal. Rashmika's appearance on Koffee With Karan adds another memorable look to her fashion moments, with the bottle-green ensemble standing out for its restrained yet striking aesthetic.

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Abhishek Sharma broke Shafiqullah Shinwari’s world record as India register their highest successful chase in T20I cricket history. The feat was achieved in the first over of the chase itself when Abhishek launched a cracking six off Matt Henry in the final delivery. With that, he surpassed Shinwari to become the cricketer with most number of first ball sixes in T20I history. 

They were previously tied with six each, with Suryakumar Yadav at number three with five, before Abhishek went on to own the record. He also helped the visitors script a stunning start to the mammoth 226-run chase at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch. Along with Sanju Samson, he stitched a 93-run partnership for the opening wicket, which set the momentum for India. 

Hitting first ball for a six most often in T20Is

Abhishek eventually departed for 29 runs off 12 balls. However, Samson managed to keep the scoreboard ticking with his charismatic strokeplay. The keeper-batter made 67 runs off 33 balls, but with Tilak Varma struggling to live up to the potential, pressure was building on Sanju, who made his way back to the pavilion in the ninth over of the innings.

Shreyas, Axar bring India back into contest

Till that point, India very much looked favourites to get the job done rather comfortably, but New Zealand fought back, putting India’s middle order under pressure. The visitors lost a few quick wickets before Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel stitched an important stand of 45 runs. That brought India back into the contest, but only momentarily. After Axar went for 24 and Shreyas for 42, the pressure was back in the Indian camp. 

However, Naman Dhir, playing his first-ever game on SENA soil, proved his mettle with some cracking shots. The all-rounder remained unbeaten for 42 runs off 15 balls as India won the match by four wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the series. 

Meanwhile, India barely had any time to enjoy a break after their five-match T20I series against West Indies. On the 17th, they hosted the Shai Hope-led side in Bengaluru before playing New Zealand on the 22nd. The jet lag was expected to bother the Indian team, but they managed to deal with that pretty well. 

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All India Students' Association (AISA) president Neha Bora on Thursday told Delhi High Court that she does not need permission to hoist national flag as she challenged the notice to execute "peace" bond. Her submission was made in the court while referring to the Delhi Police notice which said that Bora hoisted the national flag without seeking permission. The Delhi High Court will deliver its verdict on Friday at 6 pm. 

Neha Bora challenges notice by SEM 

Neha Bora has challenged a notice issued by a Special Executive Magistrate (SEM), which directed her to furnish a bond of Rs 10,000 and "maintain peace." However, opposing the petition, the Delhi Police has argued that Neha Bora’s petition is not maintainable.

"Question is does this (notice) have substance? We don't need permission to hoist the national flag. They need a class on law," senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan, representing Bora, contended before Justice Subramonium Prasad. During the hearing of the matter, Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma, representing Delhi Police, raised objection on the maintainability of Bora's petition.

Neha Bora seeks quashing of notice and directions to police not to take any action against her 

It should be noted that Neha Bora, who has been at the forefront of protests against the alleged irregularities in the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, has sought quashing of the notice and directions to the police not to take any coercive action against her.

Notably, the notice, issued on October 17 under Section 126 Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), asked the student leader to appear before the SEM (special executive magistrate) on October 19 and issued show cause why she should not execute a personal bond of Rs 10,000 with one surety "for keeping peace for a period of enquiry".

Section 126 empowers the SEM to enforce such bond signing if there is credible information that a person is likely to breach peace, disturb public tranquillity, or commit a wrongful act that may cause disturbance.

Neha Bora was taken into preventive detention on October 16

Neha Bora was taken into preventive detention on October 16 when she was on her way to join the Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) 'Lehra Do Tiranga' march. She was released on October 17.

The court also noted that the petitioner, Neha Bora, is concerned that she has already been branded as a 'bad' person, and is now being asked to promise that she will 'be good.' When an individual comes before the court and promises to behave properly, it implies that they have not been behaving properly until now. On behalf of the Delhi Police, ASG Chetan Sharma questioned: when there are six FIRs registered against Neha Bora, can she truly be considered completely innocent?

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A Mumbai court on Thursday (October 22) remanded four accused, including two women arrested in Delhi in connection with the firing incident involving actor Tiger Shroff, to police custody until October 26. The accused were produced before the Esplanade Court, also known as Killa Court, in Mumbai. 

The arrested accused have been identified as Kunal (21) and Sumit (19), both residents of Haryana's Sonipat district, and Radha (23) and Babita (23), both from Uttar Pradesh.

The accused were produced before the magistrate court after being brought to the city from the national capital.

Accused supplied weapons to shooters

Police had sought nine days of custody, saying that the four accused were actively involved in the conspiracy along with those arrested earlier in the case.

According to the police, the accused supplied weapons to the shooters that were allegedly used in the crime.

The defence lawyers, Ajinkya Mirgul and Satyavrat Joshi, opposed the remand plea, arguing that there was no material evidence against the accused and that they had been arrested on mere suspicion.

The defence submitted that custodial interrogation was unwarranted and sought judicial custody for the accused.

After hearing arguments from both sides, the court remanded the four accused to police custody until October 26.
 
According to the police, two of these accused had travelled to Amritsar to procure the weapons, while the two women smuggled the firearms by train to Mumbai, handing them over directly to the attackers.

Tiger Shroff firing case 

At least two men allegedly opened fire at actor Tiger Shroff's car in Mumbai's Juhu area on Sunday evening (October 18) before fleeing on a motorcycle. The actor escaped unhurt, while his driver and a bystander sustained injuries.

According to Mumbai Police, five to six rounds were fired at the car. The motorcycle allegedly used by the shooters was later found abandoned in Andheri.

Police have registered a case under charges of attempt to murder and provisions of the Arms Act.

Police have arrested 10 people in connection with the case so far.

On Wednesday, a court remanded three accused--- Rehan alias Sukka, from Haryana's Sonipat; Ritik Kurmi alias Roshan, originally from Bihar's Begusarai and currently residing in Mumbai; and Phool Singh, from Haryana --- to police custody until October 31.

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The mega initial public offering (IPO) of Jio Platforms Limited has received a strong investor response and was subscribed over 5 times on day 2 of the subscription window. The three-day subscription window for the offering will close on October 23, 2026. The IPO was subscribed 5.17 times at the time of writing, with investors bidding for 102.03 crore shares against 19.75 crore shares on offer. Similarly, the portion reserved for qualified institutional buyers was subscribed around 12.31 times, with bids for 60,30,41,796 shares against 4,90,07,827 shares on offer. 

Demand from non-institutional investors reached 5.43 times the shares reserved for them. The retail investor segment was subscribed 1.47 times, with bids for 12,52,24,536 shares against 8,50,37,327 shares on offer.

IPO fully subscribed within 100 minutes

On Wednesday, the opening day of the IPO, Jio Platforms Ltd's Rs 30,213-crore initial public offering was fully subscribed within 100 minutes, making it the fastest-subscribed mega public issue in India, with investors placing bids worth about Rs 69,800 crore for 62.36 crore shares by 5 pm.

This sets Jio apart from other large Indian offerings. Bajaj Housing Finance's IPO was fully subscribed by 2 pm on its opening day, while LG Electronics India's offering reached full subscription by the end of Day 1 in 2025. Hyundai Motor India's Rs 27,870-crore IPO, which held the previous record for India's largest public offering, was subscribed just 18 per cent by the end of its first day in 2024.

Jio's offering is also structurally different from those of Hyundai and LG Electronics, both of which were entirely offers for sale by existing shareholders. Jio is issuing up to 27 crore new shares, meaning the proceeds will go to the company rather than to shareholders selling their holdings.

Jio Platforms IPO GMP Today

According to Investorgain, Jio Platforms IPO's unlisted shares are trading at a grey market premium (GMP) of Rs 247. With an upper price band of Rs 1,119, the company's shares are expected to list around Rs 1,366, reflecting a grey market premium of 22.07 per cent.

Anchor book demand

The anchor investor window overflowed on Monday as the IPO received 30 times the available shares from global institutional investors, with bids crossing an unprecedented Rs 2.5 lakh crore for just Rs 8,110 crore of available shares. This indicates massive unmet institutional demand expected to spill into the secondary market post-listing.

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(This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, financial, or other advice.)