Yearly Archives: 2025

business, energy, politics, trade

India-US Trade Ties To Strengthen With Focus On Energy Security: Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal

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**India Seeks to Boost Energy Trade with the US, Highlights Strategic Partnership**

*New York:* India aims to significantly increase its trade with the United States in energy products in the coming years, with a strong emphasis on US involvement in achieving the country’s energy security goals, said Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal.

“Clearly, the world recognizes that energy security is one area where we all have to work together. India is a big player in the energy field; we are major importers of energy from across the world, including from the US,” Goyal stated on Tuesday during his keynote address at an event titled *Energy Security in a Shifting Global Landscape: Building Resilient Energy Markets Across Borders.* The event was hosted by the Consulate General of India in New York, the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF), and ReNew, India’s leading decarbonisation solutions provider.

“We expect to increase our trade with the US on energy products in the years to come. Being close friends and natural partners, our energy security goals will have a very high element of US involvement. This partnership will ensure price stability, diversified sources of energy for India, and help us unlock limitless possibilities with the US on various fronts, energy and beyond,” he added.

Goyal is currently leading a delegation in New York, engaging with US counterparts to reach an early conclusion of a bilateral trade agreement.

Noting the significance of the day, Goyal mentioned that September 22 marks the commencement of Navratri, an auspicious period in the Hindu calendar. “It is said that on this day, things are expected to turn for the better,” he remarked.

Distinguished dignitaries attending the event included Member of Parliament Anurag Thakur, Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas Pankaj Jain, USISPF CEO and President Mukesh Agni, ReNew co-founder Vaishali Nigam Sinha, and ReNew Chairman and CEO Sumant Sinha.

### Collaboration on Nuclear Power and Critical Minerals

Goyal highlighted nuclear power as another key area for Indo-US collaboration. “It’s an area we’ve been discussing for a long time. Some elements needed to be addressed, and I believe we are now working to support private efforts in nuclear power in India,” he said.

He emphasized the importance of securing resilient critical mineral supplies and diversifying sources to prevent the weaponization of trade. “We need to build infrastructure, particularly transmission grid infrastructure both within countries and across borders, which can become the backbone of the clean energy transition for various nations.”

“We all must seriously work to align our regulatory frameworks to enable cross-border energy trade without concerns that geopolitics will undermine energy resilience or security,” Goyal added.

India continues to invest in nuclear energy with ambitions to double its capacity in the coming years through government intervention, while also planning to expand on a larger scale. “There are challenges related to price and energy costs that must be addressed to make nuclear power more competitive,” he noted.

### Ambitious Clean Energy Expansion

Goyal described India as being in a “sweet spot” to expand its clean energy capacity, projecting growth from 250 gigawatts to 500 gigawatts over the next five years.

He also commented on the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), warning of its wide-ranging implications. “In fact, it could isolate the EU and hurt their economy, making them akin to a small island. While others continue trading, the EU may face inflation, unviable infrastructure costs, and loss of market share in exports,” Goyal explained.

He cautioned against green protectionism, describing it as “like a trap. If someone buries their head in the sand, they may find it very difficult to come out.”

—

*Disclaimer: This story is sourced from a syndicated feed. Only the headline has been modified.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/india-us-trade-ties-to-strengthen-with-focus-on-energy-security-commerce-minister-piyush-goyal

international relations, politics, security

‘Harbouring UN-Proscribed Terrorists, Bombing Own People’: India Tears Into Pakistan At UNHRC Over Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Strikes By PAF; VIDEO

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**India Hits Back at Pakistan Over Air Strikes at the UN Human Rights Council**

*New York:* India on Tuesday strongly responded to Pakistan during the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) session, delivering a sharp rebuttal over recent allegations and cross-border tensions.

India’s representative, Kshitij Tyagi, referenced the air strikes conducted by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which reportedly killed at least 30 civilians. He accused Pakistan of abusing the UNHRC platform with baseless and provocative statements targeted at India.

“A delegation that epitomises the antithesis of this approach continues to abuse this forum with baseless and provocative statements against India,” Tyagi said. “Instead of coveting our territory, they would do well to vacate the Indian territory under their illegal occupation and focus on rescuing an economy on life support, a polity muzzled by military dominance, and a human rights record stained by persecution,” he added.

Tyagi further criticized Pakistan, stating, “Perhaps once they find time away from exporting terrorism, harbouring UN-proscribed terrorists, and bombing their own people,” they might engage constructively.

These remarks came during the discussion on Agenda Item 4 at the UNHRC session. A video of Tyagi’s response to Pakistan has since gone viral.

The backdrop to this exchange involves reports that surfaced on Monday, revealing that at least 30 civilians, including women and children, were killed in air strikes conducted by the PAF in Matre Dara village in the Tirah Valley of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The attacks reportedly took place in the early hours of Sunday, September 21.

According to these reports, the PAF used JF-17 Thunder jets to drop at least eight LS-6 precision glide bombs on the civilian settlement. However, the Pakistan Army has denied these media reports.

Earlier, Amnesty International had criticized Pakistan’s counter-terrorism operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, describing them as demonstrating an “alarming disregard for civilian life.”

Eyewitnesses claimed that several houses collapsed during the alleged air strikes, with bodies being pulled out from the rubble afterward.

This latest confrontation at the UNHRC underscores the continuing tensions between India and Pakistan, with both sides trading accusations amidst ongoing regional instability.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/harbouring-un-proscribed-terrorists-bombing-own-people-indias-tears-into-pakistan-at-unhrc-over-airstrikes-in-khyber-pakhtunkhwa-video

general

Powell warns of inflation risks if US Fed cuts rates ‘too aggressively’

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WASHINGTON, United States — US Federal Reserve chief Jerome Powell warned Tuesday that slashing interest rates too quickly could allow inflation to remain elevated, but stressed that the central bank faces dual challenges moving forward.

“There is no risk-free path,” he told a Rhode Island event. “If we ease too aggressively, we could leave the inflation…

https://business.inquirer.net/548722/powell-warns-of-inflation-risks-if-us-fed-cuts-rates-too-aggressively

celebrity, entertainment, film

Shah Rukh Khan Struggles To Wear National Film Award Medal, Rani Mukerji Helps Him; Video Goes Viral

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The 71st National Film Awards turned into a memorable occasion for Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukerji, who were among the winners honoured by President Droupadi Murmu on September 23 in Delhi.

While the evening was marked by celebration, one lighthearted moment involving the two stars has now gone viral. A video circulating on social media shows Shah Rukh struggling to wear his National Award medal. The actor initially tried to place the medal around his neck but removed it after failing to adjust it properly.

Rani, seated next to him, quickly noticed and stepped in to help. She adjusted the medal for SRK, and the candid exchange between the long-time co-stars was captured on camera and shared by fans online. Later, Shah Rukh checked if Vikrant Massey had worn his medal correctly. When Vikrant showed him, SRK gave a thumbs-up in approval. Vikrant shared the Best Actor honour with SRK.

Reacting to the video, fans expressed their admiration:
– “So cute!!! Like kids na? Earning a medal is such a beautiful feeling.”
– “All three acknowledged each other perfectly.”
– “That is called friendship. 👌❤️❤️”
– “So beautifully SRK is checking with Vikrant that he wore it properly,” wrote another fan.

The prestigious ceremony saw several luminaries from the film industry in attendance. Apart from the viral clip, pictures of Rani Mukerji clicking selfies at the event also caught attention. Interior designer Gauri Khan, Shah Rukh’s wife, later shared the selfies on Instagram and penned a heartfelt note.

Along with SRK and Rani’s selfie, she also shared a photo of filmmaker Karan Johar, who received the National Award for his film *Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani*.

“The big day for all three of my favourites… What an honour to receive the National Award!!! Today is the culmination of all your hard work! Continue to inspire…. 🌟 @iamsrk #RaniMukerji @karanjohar,” Gauri wrote.

At the awards, Shah Rukh Khan was recognised for his performance in *Jawan*, while Vikrant Massey won for *12th Fail*. On the other hand, Rani Mukerji received the Best Actress Award for her performance in *Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway*, which was released in March 2023.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/shah-rukh-khan-struggles-to-wear-national-film-award-medal-rani-mukerji-helps-him-video-goes-viral

criminal justice, entertainment, law

Sessions Court Acquits Filmmaker Ram Gopal Verma In Cheque Bounce Case After Settlement In Lok Adalat

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**Sessions Court Acquits Filmmaker Ram Gopal Verma in Cheque Bouncing Case**

The sessions court recently acquitted filmmaker Ram Gopal Verma, who was found guilty of cheque bouncing. The acquittal came after Verma and the complainant reached a settlement before the Lok Adalat.

### Background of the Case

Ram Gopal Verma was initially convicted by the Judicial Magistrate (First Class) in Andheri, Y P Pujari, on January 21, under the Negotiable Instruments Act for cheque bouncing. He was sentenced to three months in jail and was directed to pay Rs 3,72,219 to the complainant within three months.

The complaint was filed in 2018 by a partnership firm named Shree, through one of its partners, Mahesh Chandra Mishra. The firm, engaged in the business of providing hard disks for several years, had supplied a hard disk to Verma’s company between February and March 2018. For this, the complainant raised a bill of Rs 2,38,220.

When the complainant deposited a cheque given by Verma on June 1, 2018, it bounced due to insufficient funds. Upon approaching Verma, the complainant received another cheque which also bounced, with the reasons cited as “payment stopped by drawer” and “outgoing clearing charges.”

As a result, the complainant filed a criminal complaint for cheque bouncing at the Magistrate Court in Andheri.

### Legal Proceedings

Verma denied the allegations, claiming that the cheque did not bear his signature and was not issued by him. However, the magistrate rejected his defense, stating, “It did not find any material brought by the accused to show the probable defence.”

Following his conviction, Verma’s lawyer challenged the verdict in the sessions court in February. During the appeal, both parties submitted a joint statement on July 29 indicating their intention to settle the dispute before the Lok Adalat.

Hearing this, the sessions court adjourned the matter to provide an opportunity for an amicable settlement. After the dispute was resolved, the parties filed a memo of settlement.

### Court Decision

Accepting the settlement, the sessions court acquitted Ram Gopal Verma. This marks the conclusion of the cheque bouncing case against the filmmaker.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/sessions-court-acquits-filmmaker-ram-gopal-verma-in-cheque-bounce-case-after-settlement-in-lok-adalat

conflict, international relations, military, politics, security

Donald Trump Tells NATO To Shoot Down Russian Jets Crossing Airspace In Fresh Jibe At Putin

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When asked by reporters if he believed NATO should take action against Russian aircraft crossing their airspace, Donald Trump responded affirmatively. “Yes, I do,” Trump said on Tuesday, asserting that NATO should shoot down Russian aircraft entering their airspace. He made these remarks while speaking to reporters after meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

During the meeting, when asked about NATO shoot-downs, Trump reiterated, “Yes, I do.”

In response, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte adopted a more measured stance. According to a report by US broadcaster CNN, Rutte emphasized that shoot-down decisions should depend on available intelligence regarding the threat posed by the aircraft. He noted, “This also includes questions we have to answer like intent, armaments and potential risk to allies, forces, civilians or infrastructure. We will always assess the situation, assess the immediate threat the plane poses.”

These comments came shortly after the first direct encounters between NATO and Moscow since the start of the Ukraine war. Alleged incursions of Russian aircraft over Poland, Estonia, and other NATO countries have recently tested the alliance’s preparedness and credibility in deterring Russia. For instance, Russian jets reportedly violated Estonian airspace, prompting Tallinn to call for an urgent meeting.

Meanwhile, Trump suggested that Ukraine has the potential to reclaim more than just the territory it has lost to Russia since the war began in February 2022. In a Truth Social post following his meeting with Zelenskyy at the United Nations, Trump wrote:
“I think Ukraine, with the support of the European Union, is in a position to fight and WIN all of Ukraine back in its original form.”

He added that Kyiv could possibly go even further, although he did not provide specifics on what he meant by that statement.
https://www.news18.com/world/donald-trump-tells-nato-to-shoot-down-russian-jets-crossing-airspace-in-fresh-jibe-at-putin-ws-kl-9592594.html

child protection, crime, government, immigration, regional security

3 Singaporeans under probe in cross-border baby-trafficking case; ICA reviews lapses after woman overstayed 28 years undetected: Singapore live news

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A transnational baby-trafficking ring has drawn Singapore into the spotlight, with three Singapore citizens currently under investigation by Indonesian authorities. The Indonesian National Police allege that 15 babies were sent to Singapore under falsified adoption papers, with each infant fetching around $20,000.

The Singapore Police Force (SPF) has pledged full cooperation, including questioning witnesses and tracing suspects through Interpol. So far, 22 people have been charged in Indonesia, with operations linked to West Java, Jakarta, and Pontianak. The syndicate allegedly profited by covering delivery and care costs before pocketing the remaining funds.

This case has sparked widespread outrage, with child protection groups calling it one of the most serious trafficking scandals in the region.

—

In a separate development, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) is reviewing its processes after a woman overstayed in Singapore for more than 28 years without detection. Yu Zefang, 60, was sentenced on 1 September to six months’ jail and fined $2,000, according to local media reports.

Yu had surrendered in December 2024, expressing her wish to return to China. She entered Singapore in 1995 on a student pass but absconded in 1996 after her special pass expired. She remained in the country to care for her daughter, who later became a permanent resident.

Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs K. Shanmugam told Parliament that Yu avoided detection by living off the grid—with no fixed address, no formal employment, and no use of public services. This case, believed to be the longest overstay in Singapore’s history, has raised questions about systemic gaps in immigration monitoring.

—

Meanwhile, a government scheme designed to support jobless Singaporeans has come under scrutiny after most applicants were rejected. The SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support Scheme, launched in April, has received 7,200 applications, but 60 percent were rejected, mainly because applicants did not meet criteria such as involuntary unemployment or the $5,000 income cap.

During Parliamentary sessions, MPs questioned whether the scheme adequately supports freelancers, contract workers, and those who left jobs under complex circumstances.

Senior Minister of State Koh Poh Koon responded that the scheme is regularly reviewed and allows for appeals, but its focus must remain on individuals facing sudden financial shocks.

The Ministry of Manpower and Workforce Singapore are proactively engaging with employers and the labour movement to increase awareness of the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support Scheme. Efforts include verifying unemployment claims directly with former employers and encouraging companies undergoing retrenchments to assist their employees in applying for support.

Read more about the questions raised in Parliament regarding the fairness of the Jobseeker Support Scheme here.

—

Singapore’s fresh graduates are entering an increasingly crowded job market, with 2,400 more graduates competing for roles this year. The result is sharper competition and rising anxiety among new entrants.

Even as employment rates improve to 52 percent, 1,700 more graduates remain unemployed compared to 2024. These numbers highlight a growing comfort gap in graduate employment.

To address this, the government has launched GRIT and GRIT@Gov, offering 800 traineeships lasting three to six months. These programmes include allowances co-funded by the state. Officials say these schemes are a preemptive effort to reassure graduates and help them gain industry experience while waiting for permanent roles.

Additionally, structured pathways for skilled trades are being developed to broaden career options beyond traditional graduate jobs.

—

Stay tuned for more updates on these evolving stories.
https://sg.news.yahoo.com/live/3-singaporeans-under-probe-in-cross-border-baby-trafficking-case-ica-reviews-lapses-after-woman-overstayed-28-years-undetected-singapore-live-news-013113627.html

genocide, heritage, history, human rights, intercultural relations

Thessaloniki’s Armenian minority and Jewish past are bound by a shared history of genocide

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Thessaloniki’s Armenian Minority and Jewish Past: A Shared History of Genocide

The Armenian Genocide took place 110 years ago and is still often dismissed as a consequence of the First World War. Despite this, the impact of the genocide continues to resonate deeply within communities around the world.

Thessaloniki, formerly known as Salonica, holds a significant historical connection between its Armenian minority and Jewish population, both shaped by experiences of persecution and loss.

One poignant reminder of this shared history can be found in a document preserved in a Thessaloniki museum. This document shows the papers used by individuals traveling from the city to British Mandate Palestine before World War II, highlighting the migration and survival efforts of these communities during turbulent times.

(Photo credit: Larry Luxner/JTA)

https://www.jpost.com/history/article-868448

entertainment, freedom of speech, media, politics, television

Jimmy Kimmel’s Show Set To Return On Air, But Still May Face Partial Boycott

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Despite ABC revoking Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension, Nexstar and Sinclair have refused to air his show over concerns of “insensitivity” following his remarks about the MAGA movement.

A day after ABC lifted the suspension order on Jimmy Kimmel’s show, several local TV stations chose not to broadcast the program, citing its insensitivity. According to the BBC, Nexstar and Sinclair—which together operate dozens of ABC-affiliated stations—announced they would continue to replace the show with regular programming on Tuesday.

Sinclair’s vice-chairman, Jason Smith, stated, “Mr. Kimmel’s remarks were inappropriate and deeply insensitive at a critical moment for our country.”

The late-night talk show was abruptly pulled last week after Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chair Brendan Carr and affiliate networks threatened ABC in response to Kimmel’s comments during a monologue about the MAGA movement’s reaction to Charlie Kirk’s assassination attempt.

This decision sparked a debate between supporters of former President Donald Trump’s administration and advocates of Kimmel regarding government interference and freedom of speech.

On Monday, over 400 artists—including Tom Hanks, Meryl Streep, and Jennifer Aniston—signed an open letter organized by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) to express their support for Kimmel, CNN reported.

Following this, a spokesperson for the Walt Disney Company, ABC’s parent company, told CNN, “We have spent the last days having thoughtful conversations with Jimmy, and after those conversations, we reached the decision to return the show on Tuesday.”
https://www.news18.com/world/tv-stations-refuse-to-air-insensitive-kimmels-show-despite-abc-lifting-suspension-ws-l-9592556.html

accident, government, india, investigation, public safety

Ghatkopar Hoarding Collapse Tragedy: State Cabinet Accepts Justice Bhosale Committee Report, Orders Action Against Officials

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**Mumbai: State Cabinet Accepts Justice Dilip Bhosale Committee Report on Ghatkopar Hoarding Collapse**

The Maharashtra state cabinet on Tuesday accepted the report submitted by the Justice Dilip Bhosale committee, which was constituted to investigate the illegal hoarding collapse incident that occurred in Ghatkopar in May last year. The tragic accident claimed 17 lives and left 74 others injured.

### Recommendations Against Officials

The committee’s report recommended action against state officials responsible for permitting the illegal hoarding. In response, the state government’s Action Taken Report (ATR) stated that departmental enquiries (DE) are currently underway against former Government Railway Police (GRP) commissioners Quaisar Khalid and Dr. Ravindra Shisve.

### Formation of the Committee and Action Taken Report

The Ghatkopar tragedy prompted the state government to set up the Justice Bhosale committee, comprising key members including the Director General of Police, Additional Commissioner of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), a structural engineer from IIT Bombay, an Income Tax officer, and a chartered accountant.

The committee submitted its report to the government in May, which was then forwarded to the home department for further action. Subsequently, another committee led by the Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) of the home department was formed to examine the report and prepare the ATR.

The ACS committee recommended 21 guiding principles, including establishing a nodal mechanism to take action against unauthorized hoardings. It was emphasized that municipal bodies possess full authority to enforce these measures.

### Guidelines for Hoardings

The report includes detailed recommendations aimed at improving safety and regulatory compliance related to hoardings. Key guidelines suggest that hoardings should not be installed on terraces or compound walls.

Additional considerations cover location-specific hazards, traffic safety, pedestrian convenience—particularly for persons with disabilities—design standards, and environmental impact.

Directions are being issued to the BMC and other civic authorities across Maharashtra to implement these recommendations and action points in the ATR.

### Action Against GRP Officials

The committee recommended disciplinary action against senior railway officers who headed the GRP at the time of the incident.

According to sources, the home department’s ATR confirms that departmental enquiries are underway against both officers, with Quaisar Khalid currently placed under suspension.

### New Regulations on Hoarding Size and Removal

The ATR also introduces strict regulations on hoarding dimensions moving forward. No hoarding exceeding 40 feet by 40 feet will be allowed, with height restrictions set between a minimum of 11 feet and a maximum of 60 feet.

Furthermore, all illegal hoardings across the state will be removed immediately by the relevant civic or local authorities.

To streamline the licensing and permission process, civic authorities will establish an independent agency, with the civic body chief serving as the final authority on approvals.

The ATR also states that civic bodies will initiate action against illegal hoardings and, if necessary, collaborate with police forces to ensure enforcement.

### Committee’s Mandate

The Justice Bhosale committee was specifically tasked with investigating the roles of those responsible for erecting the ill-fated hoarding and the adjacent petrol pump in Ghatkopar.

Its objective was to scrutinize the conduct of GRP officials involved and provide recommendations to prevent any such incidents in the future.

—

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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/ghatkopar-hoarding-collapse-tragedy-state-cabinet-accepts-justice-bhosale-committee-report-orders-action-against-officials