Yearly Archives: 2025

general

Infosys challenges ₹415cr GST notice in Karnataka HC

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Infosys has challenged a show-cause notice worth ₹415 crore issued by the Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI).

The notice pertains to alleged discrepancies in the company’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) filings. Infosys has responded by filing a detailed reply, contesting the claims made by the DGGI.

This development marks a significant legal step as Infosys seeks to resolve the matter through appropriate legal channels. Further updates on the case are awaited.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/infosys-challenges-rs-415cr-gst-notice-over-overseas-branch-tax-refunds/story

government, health, public safety, regulation

Fake Medicine Racket Busted In Pune: Paracetamol Sold As Azithromycin, ₹61.67 Lakh Stock Seized

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**FDA Uncovers Counterfeit Allopathy and Ayurvedic Medicines in Pune Amid Nationwide Concern**

Amid growing nationwide concerns over counterfeit medicines, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has uncovered a shocking case in Pune involving fake allopathy and Ayurvedic medicines being supplied in the market.

In a disturbing revelation, paracetamol was reportedly being sold under the label of azithromycin, a widely used antibiotic. The FDA’s inspection further revealed adulteration not only in antibiotics but also among tablets used to control blood pressure and diabetes.

### Major Raids and Seizures

Between April and September, the FDA conducted raids that led to the seizure of counterfeit medicines worth ₹61.67 lakh from two manufacturers — an allopathy company based in Shikrapur and an Ayurvedic firm in Thane.

From the Shikrapur unit alone, fake azithromycin tablets along with adulterated medicines for diabetes and hypertension, valued at ₹55.62 lakh, were confiscated. Additionally, Ayurvedic medicines worth ₹6.05 lakh were seized during a separate operation.

“In the Pune division, we regularly inspect 66 manufacturers and sellers. Action has been taken against two companies between April and September this year, and samples from 15 locations were tested,” said Girish Hukre, Joint Commissioner, FDA, Pune Division.

### Public Health Concerns

Authorities confirmed that the Shikrapur-based company had supplied azithromycin tablets to certain municipal hospitals in Pune, raising serious concerns about patient safety. Cases have been registered against both manufacturers, and further investigations are ongoing.

Medical experts and pharmacists have demanded that the administration tighten surveillance measures to prevent counterfeit medicines from entering the city’s supply chain. Meanwhile, some drug dealers have questioned how many vendors had their licenses revoked for selling such fake products.

### Context: Rising Deaths Linked to Contaminated Medicines

These revelations come in the wake of several child deaths in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan linked to contaminated cough syrup. Following these tragic incidents, the FDA has intensified checks on cough syrups across the Pune division.

As a result, many local drug dealers have already stopped selling syrups from the suspected companies.

### Government Response and Future Measures

Health Minister Prakash Abitkar assured the public that strict action will be taken against those involved in manufacturing and supplying counterfeit medicines. He stated, “A Drug Detection Machine will soon be deployed across the state to ensure the quality of medicines. Government hospital supplies must match the quality standards of private institutions.”

Meanwhile, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has issued an advisory recommending that cough syrups should not be given to children under two years of age, as the chemicals may not break down properly in their bodies and could have toxic effects. The advisory also cautions against administering such syrups to children under five years old, who are prone to adverse side effects.

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The FDA continues to strengthen efforts to safeguard public health by cracking down on counterfeit medicines and ensuring quality standards across the pharmaceutical market.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/pune/fake-medicine-racket-busted-in-pune-paracetamol-sold-as-azithromycin-6167-lakh-stock-seized

education, local, mental health, news, public safety

Maharashtra: Class 9 & 10 Students Die By Suicide After Hanging Themselves From Tree In Palghar

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**Two Teenagers Allegedly Commit Suicide at Ashram School in Palghar**

Palghar: Two teenage boys studying in an ashram school reportedly committed suicide by hanging themselves from a tree on the premises of their educational facility in Wada taluka, Maharashtra’s Palghar district, police said on Thursday.

**Incident Details**

The tragic incident occurred during the intervening night of Wednesday and Thursday. According to officials, no suicide note was found at the scene, and the motive behind the extreme step is yet to be ascertained.

The victims, aged 14 and 15 years, were studying in Class 9 and Class 10, respectively. Senior Inspector Datta Kindre of Wada police station and Jawhar’s Deputy Superintendent of Police Sameer Maher informed PTI about the incident.

The case came to light early Thursday morning when authorities were informed. The bodies were subsequently taken to a government hospital for post-mortem examinations.

**Circumstances at the Scene**

The boys used nylon ropes—typically meant for drying clothes—to hang themselves from a tree located within the government-run ashram school premises in Ambiste village.

Examinations are currently underway at the school, and the victims hailed from Mokhada taluka, approximately 80 km away from the ashram school.

A case of accidental death has been registered, and investigations are ongoing to determine the exact circumstances surrounding this tragic event.

**About Ashram Schools**

Ashram schools are residential educational institutions designed primarily for students from tribal communities or other disadvantaged groups. They provide free boarding, lodging, and education to help uplift these communities.

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If you or anyone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please seek help immediately. Mental health helplines are available to provide support and assistance.

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*Note: This article is auto-generated from an agency feed and has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team.*

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https://www.freepressjournal.in/education/maharashtra-class-9-10-students-die-by-suicide-after-hanging-themselves-from-tree-in-palghar

advertising, business, events

IndIAA Awards 2025 Celebrates A Decade Of Creative Excellence – India’s Top Brands & Agencies Shine Bright

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**IndIAA Awards 2025 Celebrates a Decade of Creative Excellence and Innovation**

Mumbai: The 10th edition of the IndIAA Awards 2025, presented by the India Chapter of the International Advertising Association (IAA), brought together India’s most influential advertisers, agencies, and creative leaders in a grand celebration of storytelling and innovation. Marking a decade of recognizing excellence, the IndIAA Awards continue to stand apart for honoring co-creators of campaigns and for being judged by India’s most senior marketers.

Each year, the awards salute ideas that connect brands with culture, emotion, and purpose. This year’s partners included Truecaller (Associate Partner), Hybrid (AdTech Partner), and Mediakart, Origin, and News Tamil (Supporting Partners).

From bold ideas in digital storytelling to emotionally resonant campaigns, the 2025 winners represented the power of creativity in driving real business impact.

**Insights from the Jury and Leadership**

Arun Srinivas, Jury Chairperson and Managing Director & Country Head, Meta India, said:
“It’s been a privilege and an honor to go through hundreds of campaigns across multiple creatives and sectors. It truly is a testament to the creative excellence that our country has always been known for. Having been a marketer on the other side and now working with one of the leading digital platforms, it’s incredible to see how creative excellence has kept pace with changing times. This year, we also added a digital leg to understand how brands across campaigns are excelling in storytelling — one of the key factors, along with creative quality and messaging clarity, in deciding these awards. It’s great to see both homegrown and new-age brands continuing to achieve their objectives through impactful creative storytelling.”

Abhishek Karnani, President, IAA India Chapter, addressing the gathering said:
“The IndIAA Awards have always stood for creative work backed by insight and purpose. What makes them unique is the integrity of the process — real campaigns shortlisted by editors and judged by top advertisers, the very people who approve great ideas every day. As we celebrate the 10th edition, we’re proud to honour work that not only drives business but uses communication as a force for good. Tonight, we celebrate the power of ideas, the brilliance of execution, and the collaboration that defines Indian advertising.”

Jaideep Gandhi, Vice President IAA India Chapter & Chairperson, IAA IndIAA Awards 2025, added:
“It’s been incredibly fulfilling to see the IndIAA Awards grow into one of the most respected recognitions in our industry. What makes us special is the integrity of the process – real campaigns, judged by real clients. As we celebrate the 10th edition, I’m proud that we continue to honour work that blends creativity, effectiveness, and a genuine commitment to being a force for good. Congratulations to all the winners.”

**Celebrating Creative Powerhouses and Industry Leaders**

The 2025 edition witnessed an evening of pride and prestige as Shilpa Shetty was recognized as the Most Disruptive Brand in the Entertainment Industry by the IAA India Chapter.

Leading brands and agencies took centre stage with exceptional work across 16 categories. Among the big winners were:

– **Hero MotoCorp** in Automotives & Accessories
– **HDFC Mutual Fund** in Banking & Finance
– **Asian Paints** in Home Décor & Fittings
– **Colgate-Palmolive** in Personal Care
– **Meta** in Telecom & Technology

Other standout winners included Urban Company, Gabit, Dream11, Tanishq, Swiggy, MakeMyTrip, and Stayfree—representing a dynamic mix of homegrown icons and new-age disruptors, each redefining creativity and storytelling in their own space.

Top-performing creative agencies were Ogilvy India, Moonshot, DDB Mudra, Lowe Lintas, and Creativeland Asia, each demonstrating creative excellence and strategic innovation across multiple categories. Media agencies including Madison Media, Wavemaker, Havas Media, EssenceMediacom, Starcom, and IPG Mediabrands also played a vital role in delivering some of the year’s most memorable campaigns.

**Category Winners Spotlight**

– **Consumer Electronics:** Gabit
*Team Gabit & Moonshot with presenters Bhawika Chabbra (IAA Mancom Member and Founder, Toaster) & Carol Goyal (IAA Mancom Member and Executive Director, Rediffusion and CEO, Aesthetic Intelligence Lab)*

– **Corporate (Joint Winner):** ‘Nanhi Kali Lessons from a Footfall’
*Team Mahindra & Ogilvy with presenters Pradeep Dwivedi (Honorary Treasurer, IAA Global and Group CEO, Eros Media World PLC), Arun Srinivas (Jury Chairperson and MD & Country Head, Meta India), and Nick Baughan (Director of Global Agencies, Meta)*

– **Entertainment & Media, Gaming:** Dream11
*Team Dream11, Tilt Brand Solutions & Zerofifty with presenters Roger Pereira – Past President, IAA India Chapter and Founder, Roger Pereira Communication & Mandeep Malhotra, Founder & CEO, Srishti Media*

– **Home Décor, Infra & Fitting:** Asian Paints ‘Socha Bhi Nahin Hoga’
*Team Asian Paint Ltd & Ogilvy*

– **Voice of Change:** Stayfree ‘#BetaStayfreeLeAana’
*Team Kenvue & DDB Mudra with presenters Megha Tata (Past President, IAA India Chapter, Strategic Advisor, Edstead and Co-Chairperson, Women Empowerment Committee, IAA India Chapter) & Nina Jaipuria (Chairperson, Women Empowerment Committee, IAA India Chapter)*

**Changemakers For Good Awards**

The Asian Federation of Advertising Associations (AFAA) felicitated the all-India winners of the ‘Changemakers For Good Awards’ at the IndIAA Awards 2025. These awards recognize marketing and advertising efforts that evoke real societal change, beyond just selling goods and services.

The jury for this year included Shreyams Kumar (President, Indian Newspapers Society), Abhishek Karnani (President, IAA India Chapter), Rana Barua (President, The Advertising Club), and Ajay Kakar (Indian Society of Advertisers).

The winners for the four categories were:

– **Advertising:** R K Swamy for ‘Happy Breastfeeding Week – Himalaya Babycare’
– **Innovation:** R K Swamy for ‘Happy Breastfeeding Week – Himalaya Babycare’
– **Government:** Associated Advertising Pvt Ltd for ‘T-Safe Awareness Campaign : Telangana Police – Women Safety Wing’
– **Industry Leader:** Ramesh Narayan Ambareesh Chakraborty, Senior Partner & Executive Creative Director, R K Swamy Ltd

*Presenters included Abhishek Karnani – Jury Member, Changemakers for Good India and President, IAA India Chapter, Sangeeta Pendurkar – Jury Member, Changemakers for Good Asia and CEO, Pantaloons & Jaypore, Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail Limited, among others.*

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The IndIAA Awards 2025 once again reinforced the power of ideas, the brilliance of execution, and the spirit of collaboration that define Indian advertising. Congratulations to all the winners and participants who continue to push boundaries and inspire the industry through their creativity and purpose-driven storytelling.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/press-release/indiaa-awards-2025-celebrates-a-decade-of-creative-excellence-indias-top-brands-agencies-shine-bright

international cricket, sports, weather, women's cricket

IND W vs SA W, ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 Weather Update: Rain Delays Start In Vizag, What Happens If The Match Gets Abandoned?

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India are gearing up for a crucial third group-stage encounter in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 against South Africa at the ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam on Thursday, October 9th. Having won both their opening matches, India will be aiming for a dominant performance to strengthen their position as favourites to win the title.

### Weather Concerns Could Impact the Match

However, weather conditions are currently posing a major hurdle. According to AccuWeather, there is a significant chance of rain during match hours, with a 49–58% likelihood between 4 pm and 6 pm. While a complete washout is not certain, rain delays and reduced overs are possible.

The toss could also be affected, as the city witnessed rainfall around 3 pm just a day before the match, and similar conditions are expected today. With rains currently pouring, there is no update on when the match would start.

### What Happens If the India Women vs South Africa Women Match Gets Washed Out?

If the rain results in the match being washed out, it is important to note that there is no reserve day for group-stage fixtures in the Women’s World Cup. This means both India and South Africa will be awarded one point each.

### India Women vs South Africa Women Head-to-Head

These two sides have played against each other frequently in recent times. While South Africa have come close on several occasions, India have come out on top in their last five encounters. However, in a World Cup setting, a rejuvenated South African side will be eager to turn the tables.

### Squad Updates

**India Squad:**
Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana, Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh, Deepti Sharma, Amanjot Kaur, Radha Yadav, Kranti Gaud, Renuka Singh, Arundhati Reddy, Sneh Rana, N. Shree Charani, Uma Chetri.

**South Africa Squad:**
Laura Wolvaardt (C), Tazmin Brits, Sune Luus, Marizanne Kapp, Anneke Bosch, Sinalo Jafta (WK), Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Masabata Klaas, Ayabonga Khaka, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Annerie Dercksen, Nondumiso Shangase, Karabo Meso, Tumi Sekhukhune.

Stay tuned for live updates as the match unfolds amidst challenging weather conditions.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/ind-w-vs-sa-w-icc-womens-world-cup-2025-rain-threatens-visakhapatnam-clash-what-happens-if-match-gets-abandoned

basketball, entertainment, social media, sports

“You need serious help dude” – Kyle Kuzma clowns Giannis Antetokounmpo after Bucks superstar’s goofy act captured in viral snap

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Despite trade rumors swirling around Giannis Antetokounmpo heading into the season, the star player appeared happy in the latest social media posts by the Milwaukee Bucks.

Fans have been eagerly watching for any signs of unrest or dissatisfaction, but Giannis’s recent updates suggest he remains positive and focused with the team.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/basketball/news-you-need-serious-help-dude-kyle-kuzma-clowns-giannis-antetokounmpo-bucks-superstar-s-goofy-act-captured-viral-snap

business, crime, finance, fraud, technology

Hairstylist Jawed Habib, his son booked in Rs 7 crore fraud case

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Hairstylist Jawed Habib and his son Anos Habib have been booked in 23 fraud cases for allegedly swindling Rs 7 crore from people through an investment scheme, police said on Wednesday.

Superintendent of Police Krishna Kumar Vishnoi revealed that the two operated a scheme under the banner of FLC Company, promising investors annual returns of 50-70 percent on Bitcoin purchases. They collected around Rs 5-7 lakh from each investor, claiming these investments would yield high returns.

However, even after two and a half years, none of the investors have received their money back, Vishnoi added. Investigators have so far identified 38 people who were defrauded through this scheme.

To date, 23 FIRs have been filed against Jawed Habib, his son Anos Habib, and their associate Saiful. The scam appears to have been run like an organized gang, according to police officials.

Authorities have also issued a lookout notice against the duo as the investigation continues.

*This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or accuracy. Mid-day management reserves the sole right to alter, delete, or remove content at its absolute discretion without prior notice.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/hairstylist-jawed-habib-his-son-booked-in-rs-7-crore-fraud-case-23597862

economy, international, politics

Southeast Asia, neighbors resilient, says AMRO

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MANILA, Philippines – Governments in Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, as well as South Korea, China, and Japan, should support economic sectors that are vulnerable to American trade policy and geopolitical tensions. This support is crucial to bolster the region’s resilience amid heightened uncertainties.

This recommendation comes from the Singapore-based ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO), which today released a new report emphasizing the need for strategic economic measures in the face of evolving global trade dynamics and geopolitical challenges.

https://business.inquirer.net/551769/southeast-asia-neighbors-resilient-says-amro

automobile, automotive, business, technology

KTM 250 Duke 2024 Launched at Rs 2.41 Lakh: Gets TFT Display and LED Headlamp

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KTM has introduced an updated version of the 250 Duke, featuring a new TFT display similar to the one found in the 390 Duke. Despite these improvements, the price remains competitive, with the updated model available at an ex-showroom price of Rs 2.41 lakh in India.

The 2024 KTM 250 Duke now comes equipped with a vibrant TFT display that offers improved graphics, Bluetooth connectivity, and a simpler interface, enhancing the overall rider experience. The design has also received a modern upgrade, incorporating LED daytime running lights and a headlamp surround borrowed from the 390 Duke, giving the bike a fresh and contemporary look.

Additionally, KTM has upgraded the 250 Duke’s switchgear to match the 390 Duke’s setup, featuring a four-way menu switch for easier navigation through the display options. Key features such as switchable ABS and a bi-directional quick-shifter continue to be part of the package, ensuring the bike offers a great blend of performance and technology.

Under the hood, the KTM 250 Duke remains powered by its 250cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine, delivering 30bhp and 25Nm of torque. Its lightweight trellis frame and aluminium subframe, shared with the 390 Duke, contribute to a nimble and energetic ride. Weighing just 163kg and equipped with a practical 15-litre fuel tank, the bike is both easy to handle and suitable for daily use.

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**KTM 200 Duke Updates**

KTM has also announced significant technological upgrades for its popular KTM 200 Duke. Starting from October 2024, the 200 Duke will feature a brand new 5-inch color TFT display, offering navigation and Bluetooth connectivity for a superior riding experience.

The refreshed KTM 200 Duke is priced at Rs 2,03,412 (ex-showroom, Delhi). It continues to be powered by its reliable 199.5cc liquid-cooled engine, producing 24.67bhp and 19.2Nm of torque. The bike comes with a 6-speed gearbox paired with a standard clutch system.

Handling is enhanced by a trellis steel frame, a 43mm upside-down front fork, and a 10-step adjustable rear monoshock. Stopping power comes from disc brakes on both ends, while the 17-inch alloy wheels equipped with 110-section front and 150-section rear tyres complete the sporty package.

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With these updates, KTM continues to strengthen its lineup, offering more technology, improved aesthetics, and engaging performance in the premium commuter motorcycle segment.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/automobiles/ktm-250-duke-2024-launched-at-rs-241-lakh-gets-tft-display-and-led-headlamp

politics, regional

Omar Abdullah’s NC Gets Support Of 4 Independent MLAs, Reaches Majority Mark Without Congress In J&K

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In a significant development for the National Conference (NC) in Jammu and Kashmir, four independent MLAs extended their support to Omar Abdullah’s party on Thursday. This has enabled the NC to reach the majority mark in the 90-member assembly without requiring support from the Congress party.

With this added support, the NC now commands the backing of 46 lawmakers, surpassing the majority threshold. Consequently, Omar Abdullah no longer needs Congress’s support to form the government in Jammu and Kashmir.

### Omar Abdullah Elected Leader of the Legislature Party

Omar Abdullah is set to be the new Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir after being unanimously elected as the leader of the NC legislature party. The decision was taken during a meeting held at the NC headquarters located in the ‘Nawa-e-Subha’ complex in Srinagar on Thursday.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, JKNC Vice President Omar Abdullah announced,
“I have been elected as the leader of the Legislature Party. I express my gratitude to the MLAs. Talks are ongoing to obtain a letter of support from Congress. Four independent MLAs have also extended their support to the National Conference. Now the number of NC members stands at 42, plus the 4 independent MLAs. After receiving the letter from Congress, we will go to the Raj Bhavan to stake claim to form the government.”

The meeting was attended by NC President Dr Farooq Abdullah, Vice President Omar Abdullah, senior party leaders, and recently elected MLAs. Farooq Abdullah had already indicated immediately after the election results were announced by the Election Commission of India (ECI) that Omar Abdullah would become the new Chief Minister of J&K.

### Priority to Restore Statehood

Omar Abdullah emphasized that the first task of the new J&K cabinet would be to pass a resolution demanding the restoration of statehood to the Union Territory.
“It should be the first business of the cabinet to pass a resolution asking the Centre to restore statehood to J&K. The Chief Minister should then travel to Delhi with the resolution and request the government to restore our statehood,” he said.

Abdullah added that this promise had been made by the Prime Minister, Home Minister, and other leaders.
“Nowhere did they state that statehood would be restored only to a government that includes BJP members,” he remarked.

The NC leader also reiterated that the party would never abandon its demand for the restoration of Article 370, which granted special autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir.
“Our stand on this will never change,” he asserted.

### Omar Abdullah’s Political Journey

This will be Omar Abdullah’s second term as Chief Minister. He was first elected in 2009 at the age of 38, becoming the Chief Minister of the J&K state. Now, he will assume office as the Chief Minister of the J&K Union Territory.

### Election Results Snapshot

The 98-member J&K Legislative Assembly results are as follows:
– National Conference (NC): 42 seats
– Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP): 29 seats
– Congress: 6 seats
– Peoples Democratic Party (PDP): 3 seats
– Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)]: 1 seat
– Peoples Conference: 1 seat
– Aam Aadmi Party (AAP): 1 seat
– Independents: 7 seats

Additionally, the Lieutenant Governor will nominate five members based on recommendations from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.

With a clear majority, the National Conference is poised to form the government, with Omar Abdullah as the Chief Minister, focusing on promises such as the restoration of statehood and Article 370.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/omar-abdullahs-nc-gets-support-of-4-independent-mlas-reaches-majority-mark-without-congress