MANILA, Philippines—Mapua will be one of the teams to watch out for in the NCAA Season 101 men’s basketball tournament. The Cardinals are not just the host school this year; they are also the defending champions, which makes them the marked team in the country’s oldest collegiate league.
READ: NCAA Season 101: Mapua faces tough
https://sports.inquirer.net/641350/ncaa-season-101-mapua-still-team-to-beat-say-rival-coaches
**Accenture Plans to Create 12,000 Jobs in Andhra Pradesh**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 23, 2025, 08:02 PM*
Accenture, a leading global technology consultancy firm, has proposed the establishment of a new campus in Andhra Pradesh as part of its strategy to expand its workforce in India by approximately 12,000 employees. This initiative aligns with similar expansions by other major IT firms such as Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and Cognizant, supported by a new state policy offering land at a highly subsidized rate of just ₹0.99 per acre for companies committed to job creation.
**Proposal Details**
Accenture has requested around 10 acres of land in Visakhapatnam under the terms of this policy. The proposal is currently under review by the Andhra Pradesh government. India already serves as Accenture’s largest employee base globally, with over 300,000 of its 790,000 worldwide employees based in the country.
**Government Response**
An official from the Andhra Pradesh government expressed enthusiasm about bringing Accenture to the state. Although the approval process may take some time, the official indicated that the proposal is reasonable and expected to be approved soon. The statement was given on the condition of anonymity.
**Investment and Comparisons**
While the exact investment amount Accenture intends to make has yet to be disclosed, precedent exists with TCS and Cognizant, which have secured land leases under the same policy for campuses projected to generate around 20,000 jobs in Visakhapatnam. Cognizant is investing $183 million, and TCS has allocated just over $154 million for its new facility.
**Trend Toward Expansion in Tier-2 Cities**
The expansion of major tech firms into tier-2 Indian cities reflects a growing trend driven by cost advantages such as lower land prices, rent, and wage expenses. Post-pandemic shifts have also made it easier for companies to hire local talent in these smaller cities, reversing the earlier pattern of workers migrating to large tech hubs.
With Andhra Pradesh emerging as a key destination for IT investments, Accenture’s proposed campus is expected to significantly boost employment and contribute to the region’s growing prominence in India’s technology landscape.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/accenture-seeks-land-in-ap-for-new-campus/story
On August 1, Malhotra received a call from a man claiming to represent a mobile connection company. The caller alleged that his Aadhaar Card had been misused in Mumbai to obtain a connection linked to terror funding cases.
“They told me I needed to speak with the Mumbai Police, and if the authorities approved, the connection would continue; otherwise, it would be disconnected and the matter reported,” Malhotra told PTI.
The scammers pressured him, claiming his Aadhaar was linked to terror funding, terror activities, and other serious offences. “They warned me not to inform anyone, including my family, or they too would be treated as co-accused,” he said.
Initially, the imposters sought information about Malhotra’s savings. “They asked how much I had in my bank accounts. I said around Rs 14 lakh. They told me to transfer it for verification, assuring me it would be returned,” he recounted.
After each transfer, the fraudsters sent him forged certificates purporting to be from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), PTI reported. As their demands grew, they asked about his mutual funds, systematic investment plans (SIPs), and other assets, claiming they were verifying them under Bombay High Court guidelines.
“They said they would verify 25 per cent of my assets first, then proceed with the rest. They threatened that my family would be named co-accused if I didn’t comply,” Malhotra said.
Under constant pressure, he visited three banks, liquidated his investments, and transferred the proceeds to accounts provided by the scammers. Each time, they issued more fake RBI certificates. Between August 1 and September 4, Malhotra was confined to his home, venturing out only to visit banks.
On September 14, the fraudsters claimed that the Mumbai Police officer investigating his case was compromised and demanded another Rs 5 crore, allegedly on behalf of the Supreme Court, to be deposited into a private bank in West Bengal. Malhotra refused, saying he would approach the police directly. After this, the calls abruptly stopped.
Realising he had been defrauded, Malhotra approached the authorities on September 19. “I spent my life savings building security for my old age. In one month, it all disappeared because I trusted the wrong people. I hope my story serves as a warning,” he said, holding back tears.
The Intelligence Fusion and Strategic Operations (IFSO) unit of Delhi Police, which handles cyber fraud cases, is investigating. Police have so far frozen Rs 2.67 crore in several accounts.
“The funds were layered across multiple accounts and withdrawn from different parts of the country to evade detection. Over 4,000 accounts were used to siphon off the money,” an officer privy to the investigation said. “We will crack the case soon and arrest those behind the scam.”
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/78-year-old-ex-banker-loses-rs-23-crore-to-cyber-fraudsters-was-held-under-digital-arrest-23595438
Taro stems, often overlooked in the kitchen, are actually a highly nutritious ingredient.
They offer a range of health benefits and can be used in various recipes, adding both flavor and texture to your meals.
Don’t underestimate the potential of taro stems — give them a try and discover their versatility for yourself.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/how-to-cook-with-taro-stems/story
Ahead of the 2025 Men’s T20 Asia Cup Super Four clash, Bangladesh head coach Phil Simmons has expressed his views on the competition.
Simmons emphasized that any team has the potential to beat India, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the tournament. His statement reflects the confidence and determination of teams participating in this high-stakes contest.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/asia-cup-bangladesh-coach-says-every-team-can-beat-india/story
**Pimpri-Chinchwad: PCMC Launches Four-Wheeler Driving Training Program for Transgender Community**
The Standing Committee of the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has approved a new initiative aimed at empowering the transgender community. The committee greenlit a four-wheeler driving training program specially designed for transgender members, officials announced on Tuesday.
Led by PCMC’s Social Development Department, this program seeks to create new employment opportunities and promote inclusivity within the community.
### Meeting Highlights
The approval came during a meeting held at the Late Mayor Madhukar Pawale Hall in PCMC’s main administrative building. The session was chaired by PCMC Commissioner and Administrator Shekhar Singh. Alongside the driving training initiative, various other proposals were reviewed and sanctioned.
Commissioner Singh also conducted a department-wise review of several ongoing development projects. The meeting was attended by Additional Commissioners Pradeep Jambhale Patil, Vijaykumar Khorate, Trupti Sandbhor, City Secretary Mukesh Kolap, and heads of various departments.
A total of 39 projects and decisions received approval during this session, according to officials.
### Key Decisions from the Meeting
– **Zero Waste Project**: Implementation of the “Zero Waste” initiative in municipal schools was approved, alongside funding for the Swachh Samman Sohala (Cleanliness Honours Ceremony) and preparations for the upcoming Swachh Survekshan 2025-26 (Cleanliness Survey).
– **Education Expansion**: The committee agreed to increase student intake for postgraduate courses at Yashwantrao Smruti Hospital, with academic fees to be paid to the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Nashik.
– **Sewage Line Cleaning Extension**: The deadline for mechanical cleaning of sewage lines and manhole chambers in the B-Ward area was extended.
– **Hospital-Related Approvals**: Registration fees and penalty charges to the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board for the new Jijamata Hospital will be paid. Additionally, the purchase of lithium polymer batteries for the hospital was approved.
– **Infrastructure Development**: A revised budget for the ongoing development of DP roads in Kudulwadi (Ward No. 2) was sanctioned.
– **Housing for Economically Weaker Sections**: Construction of residential flats in Dudulgaon under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Prime Minister’s Housing Scheme) received the nod.
### Additional Resolutions
Administrator Shekhar Singh also approved key resolutions under the committee’s authority, including the registration of a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative and the rollout of the new light motor vehicle driving training program for the transgender community.
This comprehensive approach reflects PCMC’s commitment to inclusive development and improved civic amenities across the city.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/pune/pimpri-chinchwad-pcmc-approves-four-wheeler-driving-training-programme-for-transgender-community
**Asia Cup: Injury Scare for Bangladesh as Litton Das Struggles**
*By Gaurav Tripathi | Sep 23, 2025, 02:07 PM*
Bangladesh face a potential injury setback ahead of their crucial Super Four clash against India. Captain Litton Das suffered a back strain during a training session at the ICC Academy Ground on September 22.
The injury occurred when Litton felt discomfort on the left side of his waist while attempting a square cut in the nets. After experiencing the pain, he promptly withdrew from the session and was assessed by team physio Bayzid ul Islam.
### Medical Assessment Pending
A Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) official told Cricbuzz, “We will have a look at him (Litton) today because from outside he looks quite okay, but we need to conduct a medical assessment before making a final call.” Although Litton did not show major signs of discomfort after the incident, his absence in the upcoming match would be a significant blow for Bangladesh.
### Leadership Void for Bangladesh
If Litton Das is ruled out, Bangladesh could face a leadership crisis. The BCB has not yet named a deputy captain for the tournament, creating uncertainty about who would lead the side in his absence.
Despite this injury scare, Bangladesh started their Super Four campaign on a strong note, securing a convincing victory over Sri Lanka.
### Litton Das’s Form in the Tournament
Litton’s performance so far in the Asia Cup has been somewhat inconsistent. After a match-winning 59 against Hong Kong in Bangladesh’s opener, he scored 28 against Sri Lanka. However, he then managed just 9 runs versus Afghanistan and 23 in another game against Sri Lanka, showing a tendency to throw away his starts.
Bangladesh will be hoping for a speedy recovery for their captain as they prepare for their high-stakes encounter against India.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/injury-scare-for-litton-das-ahead-of-india-game/story
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a cyclone alert for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands due to a cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal, which is expected to intensify from September 24, officials said on Tuesday.
Local port warnings have been issued in response to the weather system, which is likely to bring heavy rainfall until September 25. According to officials, “Thunderstorms with gusty winds reaching 40-50 kmph and lightning are very likely to occur at one or two places over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on September 24.”
Heavy rain, measuring between 7-11 cm, is expected at one or two places over the Andaman Island. Additionally, thunderstorms with gusty winds of 40-50 kmph and lightning are also likely at one or two places across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on September 25 and 26.
The officials further added, “Thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds (40-50 kmph) and lightning are expected at one or two places over the islands on September 27 and 28. Squally weather with surface wind speeds ranging from 35-45 kmph, gusting up to 55 kmph, is very likely to prevail over the Andaman Sea and the Andaman and Nicobar coast.”
Sea conditions are forecasted to be rough over the next five days. Fishermen have been strongly advised not to venture into the sea along and off the Andaman Sea and the islands’ coast until September 25. Due to the potential for surging waves, boat owners, island residents, and tourists have been cautioned to operate their boats with utmost vigilance. Recreational activities should also be undertaken with due care.
Meanwhile, in light of the IMD’s weather advisory indicating the formation of a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal, the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) is expected to reschedule the sailing of vessels to Campbell Bay, Nancowry, Katchal, and other islands.
*Note: This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for the dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or accuracy of the data in the text. Mid-day management and mid-day.com reserve the sole right to alter, delete, or remove content at their absolute discretion without prior notice.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/imd-issues-cyclone-alert-in-andamans-23595397
Inviting friends over for a get-together is always enjoyable, but it can sometimes put a strain on your budget. The good news is that hosting doesn’t have to be expensive to be memorable and fun. Here are some practical tips to help you entertain guests at home without overspending.
Instead of ordering takeout or catering, prepare homemade dishes that are both delicious and affordable. Opt for recipes with ingredients you already have or that are inexpensive to buy in bulk. Finger foods, pasta dishes, and hearty salads are great options that are easy to make and serve.
You don’t need fancy decorations to create a welcoming environment. Use what you have around the house—fresh flowers from your garden, candles, or string lights can add charm without costing a lot. Comfortable seating and good music also go a long way to set the mood.
Offering a wide variety of beverages can quickly add up. Instead, pick one or two drink options, like homemade lemonade or a signature cocktail. Providing water infused with fruits or herbs is a refreshing and budget-friendly alternative.
Invite your friends to bring a dish or drink to share. This not only helps distribute the cost but also adds variety to the table. Just coordinate in advance to avoid duplicates.
Make the most of your existing kitchenware, decorations, and entertainment resources. Reuse items from previous gatherings and focus on spending your time and creativity rather than money.
Hosting friends at home can be enjoyable and affordable with a bit of planning and creativity. Focus on the experience and the company rather than lavish spending, and your get-together will surely be a hit!
https://www.pulse.ng/articles/pulse-picks/general/budget-hosting-essentials-2025092216061731668
**Cinnamon Sticks: 5 Must-Try Recipes**
*By Simran Jeet | Sep 23, 2025, 01:21 pm*
Cinnamon sticks are a staple in many kitchens, prized for their warm, aromatic flavor. While commonly associated with desserts, cinnamon sticks are incredibly versatile and can enhance a variety of savory dishes as well. Here are five creative ways to incorporate cinnamon sticks into your cooking routine, showcasing just how delightful and multifaceted this spice can be.
### 1. Infused Rice Delight
Elevate your plain rice by infusing it with cinnamon sticks. Add one or two sticks to the pot while cooking basmati or jasmine rice, allowing the cinnamon to simmer with the grains. This subtle infusion imparts a lovely aroma and depth of flavor, turning simple rice into an excellent side dish for any meal.
### 2. Spiced Vegetable Stew
Bring warmth and complexity to your vegetable stew by tossing in a couple of cinnamon sticks during cooking. Whether you are simmering carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, or other vegetables, the cinnamon slowly blends into the stew, creating a hearty and comforting dish—perfect for chilly days.
### 3. Aromatic Herbal Tea
Enjoy the soothing benefits of cinnamon with an easy-to-make herbal tea. Boil water with a few cinnamon sticks and steep for five minutes. For added flavor, consider adding herbs like mint or chamomile. This aromatic tea can be served hot or cold, making it a refreshing and healthful drink all year round.
### 4. Flavorful Oatmeal Boost
Transform your morning oatmeal by cooking it with cinnamon sticks. As the oats simmer in milk or water, they absorb the warm, spicy essence of the cinnamon, resulting in a comforting and nutritious breakfast. Simply remove the sticks before serving for a fuss-free start to your day.
### 5. Sweet Potato Twist
Enhance sweet potato dishes by roasting them with whole cinnamon sticks. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil and place cinnamon sticks on the roasting tray. As they cook, the cinnamon highlights the natural sweetness of the potatoes while adding subtle, aromatic complexity—without overpowering the dish.
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Incorporating cinnamon sticks into your recipes is a fantastic way to add warmth and depth to everyday meals. Give these five recipes a try and discover new ways to enjoy this timeless spice!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/cinnamon-sticks-5-must-try-recipes/story
