Yearly Archives: 2025

budget, government, healthcare, politics

US government headed to a shutdown after last-ditch vote fails

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**US Government Shuts Down After Last-Ditch Vote Fails**

*By Chanshimla Varah | Oct 01, 2025, 09:28 am*

The United States government has officially shut down for the first time in six years after Senate Democrats rejected a Republican bill to fund the government. The 55-45 vote fell short of the 60 votes needed to end a filibuster and pass the legislation.

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer accused Republicans of “bullying” by refusing to negotiate on extending expanded Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits, which are set to expire at the end of the year.

**Democrats’ Demands**

Democrats are seeking an immediate extension of health subsidies as millions of Americans begin receiving notices of premium increases for the coming year. Many who purchase health insurance through the Affordable Care Act may face higher costs as the expanded subsidies, first implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, expire.

In addition to the health subsidies, Democrats have demanded that Republicans reverse proposed Medicaid cuts. They are also calling on the White House to pledge that it will not attempt to undo spending passed by Congress.

**Blame Game Intensifies**

The Trump administration has blamed Democrats for the shutdown. President Donald Trump threatened to “cut vast numbers of people out” and slash various federal programs.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune described the funding bill as a “clean” one that should be noncontroversial. He predicted that Democratic support would increase once they recognize that their opposition is a losing battle.

Despite holding a 53-47 Senate majority, Republicans needed at least eight Democratic votes to reach the 60-vote threshold. However, Republican Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky opposed the bill, complicating the effort.

**Shutdown Impact**

The Congressional Budget Office estimates that around 750,000 federal workers could be furloughed each day during the shutdown.

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has warned of the shutdown on its website, blaming “the Radical Left” for the impasse. Last week, the White House instructed federal agencies to prepare for a “reduction in force” across numerous programs if the shutdown continues. This means employees not deemed essential may be dismissed rather than merely furloughed.

**Looking Back: The Last Shutdown**

The previous government shutdown occurred during President Trump’s first term, lasting from December 2018 to January 2019. That 35-day shutdown was the longest in US history and stemmed from disputes over funding for the US-Mexico border wall.

Officials ultimately ended the shutdown amid mounting public frustration, airport delays, and missed paychecks for federal workers.

—

The current shutdown marks a significant political and economic challenge as lawmakers face growing pressure to reach a funding agreement and reopen the government.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/us-government-headed-to-a-shutdown-after-last-ditch-vote-fails/story

business, entertainment, gaming, technology

Evening Reading – September 30, 2025

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Welcome, Shackers, to the end of another Tuesday. We’re back from Tokyo Game Show 2025 and prepping a mountain of content for your viewing and reading pleasure. Stay tuned as we roll out our coverage throughout the coming days. For now, it’s time to pull the curtain on another day worth of posting. Here’s your Evening Reading, in case you missed it at Shacknews.

—

**Latest Headlines:**

– What is the exact release time of *Ghost of Yotei*?
– OpenAI’s Sora AI video generator to reportedly require opt-out from copyright holders
– Avalanche Studios to close Liverpool studio and lay off employees at other locations
– *PowerWash Simulator 2* demo releases today on PC
– *Hades 2* review: The ‘House’ always wins
– *Super Mario Galaxy* + *Super Mario Galaxy 2* review: Delightfully disorienting

—

**And now, more stuff from The Internet!**

**EA going AI?**
Nothing about any of this sale seems good for fans — just the people doing the business. It is going to be weird to watch the effects this has on EA’s game releases in the long run.

**A little too evergreen**
There are a few too many ongoing stories these days to which this could apply, don’t you think?

**Hinako the Hammer**
I hear the story is really, really good, but I can’t stop laughing at how silly strong Hinako seems to be.

**Battle of two honkin’ chonkers**
Fat Bear Week is almost over. Only two beefy beasties remain. Who will win?! (Go, Chunk!)

**The film magic of Buster Keaton**
The athleticism and filming sleight of hand with which Buster Keaton, other actors, and the directors pulled off these stunts will never cease to impress me.

**Happy duck**
Ducks can be quite mean, so it’s very funny to me when they’re so ridiculously playful.

**It’s Showtime! Again!!**
Nintendo Music might be the best mobile app Nintendo’s got going these days.

—

And there you have it. That’s your Evening Reading for this September 30.

If you’d like to support the site and our continuing videos and coverage, consider joining Shacknews Mercury, where you can support the site for as little as a dollar a month.

You can also check out our host of helpful apps, such as Shackmaps, where we’re mapping out the content of popular games including *Hollow Knight: Silksong* and *Mario Kart World*.

Don’t miss Bubbletron, a game in which you assemble your next trillion-dollar idea from a daily-changing set of prompts. Will you get the highest valuation for the money hat?

Thanks for stopping by, and have a good night. We’ll be back with even more coverage tomorrow!
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146173/evening-reading-september-30-2025

health, india, mental health, public health

Maharashtra Tops Suicide Cases In India: Psychiatrists Warn Suicide Is A Medical Emergency

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Suicide in Maharashtra: A Growing Concern Despite Development

Mumbai: Suicide is a medical emergency, psychiatrists emphasize, requiring urgent attention from trained medical professionals. In 2023, India recorded 1,71,418 suicides, reflecting a slight increase of 0.3% compared to 2022, according to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB).

Maharashtra, despite being one of India’s most developed states, reported the highest number of suicide cases at 22,687, raising serious concerns among mental health experts.

Dr. Ashutosh Shah, Consultant Psychiatrist at Sir H N Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai, commented on this trend. He expressed uncertainty about why Maharashtra leads in suicides despite its development but explained from a neurological perspective that suicide or attempted suicide is an extreme manifestation of the fight-or-flight response, where the individual perceives death as the only option available.

He emphasized, “As trained medical doctors, psychiatrists must always treat suicide as a medical emergency.”

Underlying Causes and Contributing Factors

While immediate triggers may be evident, both environmental and biological factors often contribute to suicidal behavior. According to NCRB data, the leading causes of suicide in India include:

  • Family problems and illness
  • Drug abuse or alcoholism (7%)
  • Marriage-related issues (5.3%)
  • Love affairs (4.7%)
  • Bankruptcy or indebtedness (3.8%)
  • Unemployment (1.8%)
  • Exam failure (1.4%)
  • Death of a loved one (1.3%)
  • Career-related problems (1.1%)
  • Property disputes (1%)

Dr. Shah further highlighted the importance of government policies to identify at-risk individuals on a population level. These individuals may include people diagnosed with psychiatric disorders, those from impoverished or socio-economically challenged backgrounds, and individuals undergoing acute environmental crises.

He stated, “Targeted interventions are essential. This begins with identification of at-risk individuals and is followed by early treatment and support from qualified professionals, particularly psychiatrists.”

Recognizing Warning Signs of Suicide

Rehna William, Clinical Psycho-oncologist at HCG ICS Khubchandani Cancer Centre, Colaba, Mumbai, explained that suicidal thoughts often manifest through verbal cues such as talking about death or expressing hopelessness. Behavioral changes like withdrawing from loved ones, mood swings, giving away belongings, or losing interest in usual activities may also be warning signs.

She added, “Suicide among cancer patients is multifactorial but preventable. Beyond physical suffering, untreated depression, anxiety, hopelessness, and financial or social stress are major contributors. Awareness, early intervention, and timely support can save lives.”

Need Help?

If you or anyone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please seek help immediately. Reach out to mental health helplines or consult qualified medical professionals.

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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maharashtra-tops-suicide-cases-in-india-psychiatrists-warn-suicide-is-a-medical-emergency

cricket, sports, women

Women’s WC: Crowd attendance in IND-SL match breaks records

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**Women’s WC: Crowd Attendance in IND-SL Match Breaks Records**

*By Gaurav Tripathi | October 1, 2025, 09:26 AM*

The opening match of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 between India and Sri Lanka has set a new milestone in women’s cricket attendance. Held on September 30 at Guwahati’s Barsapara Cricket Stadium, the game attracted an unprecedented crowd of 22,843 fans.

This figure marks the highest attendance ever recorded for any group stage match in Women’s World Cup history, surpassing the previous record of 15,935 set during the India-Pakistan clash in 2024. The record turnout reflects the growing popularity and support for women’s cricket across the nation.

**Tendulkar Praises Progress in Women’s Cricket**

ICC Hall of Famer Sachin Tendulkar applauded the remarkable strides made in women’s cricket in recent years. He credited the Women’s Premier League (WPL) as a game-changer that has significantly enhanced visibility and provided financial security to female cricketers.

Tendulkar also expressed his gratitude to former BCCI secretary Jay Shah for championing equal match fees for men and women and playing a pivotal role in laying the foundation for the WPL. According to him, these efforts are transforming the landscape of the sport by promoting equality and professionalism.

**ICC’s Record Prize Money Lauded**

Tendulkar further praised the International Cricket Council (ICC) for announcing record prize money for the Women’s World Cup, which even exceeds the amount offered in the men’s 2023 World Cup.

He emphasized that such administrative decisions are life-changing and send a powerful message: women’s cricket deserves equal respect. Tendulkar highlighted that these initiatives inspire every young girl with a passion for cricket by showing them that their dedication is valued equally.

**Match Highlights: India Defeats Sri Lanka by 59 Runs (DLS Method)**

In a rain-curtailed encounter, India batted first and posted a competitive total of 269/8 in their allotted 47 overs. Middle-order batswomen Amanjot Kaur and Deepti Sharma played crucial innings, each scoring fifties that rescued the team from a precarious position.

Sri Lanka, struggling to keep up, suffered a middle-order collapse and were eventually bowled out for 211. Deepti Sharma also contributed with the ball, taking three wickets for 54 runs. Her performance elevated her to become India’s second-highest wicket-taker in women’s ODI cricket, surpassing former spinner Neetu David.

The match not only showcased thrilling cricket but also demonstrated the growing enthusiasm and support for women’s cricket, setting an inspiring tone for the tournament ahead.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/ind-sl-women-s-wc-encounter-sets-benchmark-with-22-843-fans/story

general

Auto driver arrested for murdering woman near Malwani church after money dispute

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The accused allegedly strangled her with a dupatta following a heated argument inside an auto. After the incident, he dumped the body in a secluded shed near Malwani Church.

Subsequently, he fled to his native village in Agra.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/malwani-church-horror-police-nab-auto-driver-for-murder-of-woman-over-money-dispute-23596657

business, investigation, regulation

ED Conducts Searches At Anil Ambani-linked RInfra Premises In FEMA Probe

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**Mumbai: ED Conducts Searches at Reliance Infrastructure Premises in FEMA Probe**

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday conducted searches at six premises of Anil Ambani-linked Reliance Infrastructure Ltd (RInfra) located in Indore (Madhya Pradesh) and Mumbai (Maharashtra). The searches form part of an ongoing probe into alleged illegal remittances abroad, reportedly violating the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), according to official sources.

### ED Probes Transactions with Yes Bank

Sources revealed that the current FEMA-related searches are connected to the Jaipur–Ringus Toll Road, operated by JR Toll Road Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary of RInfra. The ED is scrutinizing transactions made with Yes Bank between 2017 and 2019, alleging unauthorized transfer of funds abroad and non-compliance with FEMA regulations.

In June 2025, RInfra settled a ₹273 crore loan for the project, which was previously classified as a non-performing asset, with the company acting as the corporate guarantor. While the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract for the toll road was entirely domestic, officials are investigating whether funds were routed abroad indirectly through internal transactions or inter-corporate deposits (ICDs) without approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

The probe also focuses on the non-disclosure of related parties such as CLE, which may have been used to mask the movement of funds.

### Reliance Infrastructure’s Response

RInfra maintains that the project involved no foreign exchange and stated it is fully cooperating with authorities. The company emphasized that its operations remain unaffected by the probe.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Reliance Infrastructure described the ED action as “dated” and unrelated to foreign exchange. The statement read:

> “In 2010, the company had awarded an EPC contract for the Jaipur–Ringus Toll Road to Prakash Asphaltings & Toll Highways. This was a domestic contract with no foreign exchange involved. The work was completed, and RInfra has had no continuing connection with the contractor. The toll road has been with NHAI for the last four years.”

The company reiterated its full cooperation with the authorities and stressed that the matter has “absolutely no impact” on its operations, financial performance, employees, shareholders, or stakeholders.

### Over ₹17,000 Crore Financial Irregularities Under Investigation

The ED has been investigating alleged financial irregularities and collective loan “diversion” amounting to over ₹17,000 crore by multiple group companies under Anil Ambani, including Reliance Infrastructure. These investigations are being conducted under the criminal provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The agency’s action followed a report from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), which alleged that RInfra “diverted” funds disguised as inter-corporate deposits (ICDs) to other Reliance Group companies via a company named CLE. It was claimed that RInfra did not disclose CLE as a “related party,” thereby avoiding necessary approvals from shareholders and audit panels.

This fresh round of searches adds to ongoing investigations into the Anil Ambani group, which has been under regulatory and enforcement scrutiny over alleged loan defaults and fund diversion.

—

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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/ed-conducts-searches-at-anil-ambani-linked-reliance-infrastructure-premises-in-fema-probe

general

“I should knock your a** out”: Kevin Hart calls Kai Cenat “racist” during sleepover livestream

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Comedian Kevin Hart recently had a hilarious interaction with Twitch star Kai Cenat during a comedic bit in the middle of their collaborative livestream on Twitch.

The stream also featured fellow comedian [insert name], adding to the entertaining dynamic between the performers. The blend of humor and spontaneous moments made the livestream a memorable experience for fans of both comedy and gaming.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/us/streamers/news-i-knock-a-out-kevin-hart-calls-kai-cenat-racist-sleepover-livestream

archaeology, art, history, science

12,000-year-old carvings of animals discovered in Saudi Arabian desert

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Researchers have discovered life-size rock carvings of camels, gazelles, and other animals in the Saudi Arabian desert. These impressive carvings date back to about 12,000 years ago, with many measuring more than 6 feet (1.8 meters) tall.

Scientists believe the carvings were created using a wedge-shaped rock to produce sharp, precise lines. Interestingly, several of the engravings were etched onto narrow ledges, meaning the artists could not even step back to survey their work as they created it.

“To engrave that much detail with just a rock takes real skill,” said Maria Guagnin, an archaeologist with the Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology in Germany, who was involved in the discovery.

The animal carvings, along with engraving tools found at the site, reveal that people inhabited the area about 2,000 years earlier than scientists had previously thought. However, it remains unclear how these early inhabitants survived in such arid conditions—whether they lived off shallow lakes that formed temporarily or drank water that collected in deep crevices.

“People have been creating rock art in Saudi Arabia for thousands of years,” Ms. Guagnin explained. However, dating older engravings can be challenging since they often lack writing and rarely contain remnants like charcoal, which can be analyzed in a lab.

Michael Harrower, a Johns Hopkins University archaeologist not involved in the research, commented via email, “We know relatively little about art in the Middle East during this very ancient period of the human past.”

In the latest discovery, scientists found a rock pick buried directly beneath the carvings. This crucial find allowed them to date both the tool and the artwork it was used to create. The findings were published recently in the journal *Nature Communications*.

Prior to this discovery, scientists were uncertain if people lived in the desert during this time, as the conditions were dry and water scarce. It was generally thought that people moved into the area later, when the landscape was marked by greener pastures and lakes.

One of the carvings depicted an auroch—an ancestor of wild cattle that did not live in the desert and has since become extinct. This led Ms. Guagnin to speculate that the artists might have encountered such animals by traveling elsewhere during the dry season.

“They must have been fully established communities that knew the landscape really well,” she said.

This discovery not only sheds light on human history in the harsh environments of the Arabian desert but also highlights the remarkable skill and adaptability of early communities in the region.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/12000-year-old-carvings-of-animals-discovered-in-saudi-arabian-desert-1813085.html