Yearly Archives: 2025

government, Middle East, politics

MK Ayman Odeh to submit bill to Knesset to recognize Palestinian state

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MK Ayman Odeh to Submit Bill to Knesset to Recognize Palestinian State

MK Ayman Odeh has announced his intention to submit a bill to the Knesset aimed at recognizing the Palestinian state. Odeh welcomed the recent trilateral recognition efforts and expressed his views on the Palestinian people, stating, “The Palestinian people are not the best people in the world, but there is no people in the world better than them.”

Odeh was seen attending a Hadash-Ta’al faction meeting at the Knesset, the Israeli parliament in Jerusalem, on June 30, 2025.

(Photo credit: Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-868288

controversy, international relations, politics, social issues, sports

Asia Cup: Sahibzada Farhan’s gun gesture after half-century draws flak

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**Asia Cup 2025: Sahibzada Farhan’s Gun Gesture After Half-Century Draws Flak**

*By Rajdeep Saha | Sep 21, 2025, 09:53 pm*

Pakistan cricketer Sahibzada Farhan has come under fire for his controversial celebration during the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 clash against India. After scoring a stylish half-century, Farhan made a gun firing gesture towards his dugout, a move that sparked widespread criticism and outrage.

The incident has been particularly sensitive given the recent Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent Indian citizens at the hands of Pakistan-based militants. Many fans took to social media to express their disappointment over Farhan’s actions, interpreting the gesture as an insensitive provocation.

**The Controversial Celebration**

Farhan reached his 50 runs in impressive fashion during the match on September 21, hitting a massive six off Axar Patel in the 10th over. However, instead of a standard celebration, Farhan’s firing gun gesture quickly drew sharp attention and backlash online, overshadowing his performance.

**Reactions from Fans**

Social media users reacted swiftly to Farhan’s gesture, condemning it for being inappropriate amidst the recent tragic events. One disappointed fan wrote, “Disappointed with Sahibzada Farhan’s gun gesture after his 50 in the IND vs PAK match. Felt like a jab at India’s hospitality.” Another user added, “Sahibzada Farhan showing how his brothers killed innocent tourists in Pahalgam through his half-century celebration.”

**Match Summary**

On the field, Pakistan faced challenges early in their innings at the Dubai International Stadium. They lost three wickets during the powerplay. Farhan himself was eventually dismissed by Indian all-rounder Shivam Dube for 58 runs off 45 balls.

Dube had earlier taken the wicket of Saim Ayub, who scored 21 runs. Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman’s innings ended controversially when he was caught behind by Sanju Samson off Hardik Pandya’s bowling. Additionally, Kuldeep Yadav took the wicket of Hussain Talat as India aimed to keep Pakistan’s score in check during this crucial Super 4 match.

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The Asia Cup clash between India and Pakistan always carries intense emotions on and off the field, but Farhan’s celebration has heightened debates around sportsmanship and respect amid ongoing political sensitivities.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/pakistan-cricketer-sahibzada-farhan-s-gun-gesture-anger-fans/story

energy, exploration, geology, oil and gas, policy

ONGC, OIL eye ₹3,200cr stratigraphic drilling campaign: What is it?

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**ONGC and OIL Launch ₹3,200 Crore Stratigraphic Drilling Campaign in Untapped Offshore Basins**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | September 21, 2025 | 6:23 PM*

State-run oil explorers Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and Oil India Limited (OIL) are preparing to undertake a major stratigraphic drilling campaign valued at ₹3,200 crore. Scheduled to commence early next year, the project targets untapped offshore areas to boost India’s hydrocarbon exploration efforts.

### First Phase: Drilling in Four Key Basins

The initial phase of the campaign will involve drilling four wells across prominent sedimentary basins — Andaman, Mahanadi, Saurashtra, and Bengal. These regions hold significant promise for undiscovered oil and gas resources and are currently underexplored.

### What Is Stratigraphic Drilling?

Stratigraphic drilling, also known as a stratigraphic test well, is an exploratory technique used to analyze underground geological formations. Unlike conventional drilling that seeks immediate resource extraction, this method focuses on building detailed geological profiles. This data is crucial for making informed decisions on future hydrocarbon exploration.

Global energy major BP will extend its technical expertise to ONGC and OIL by helping identify optimal drilling locations and supporting the drilling operations.

### Financial Backing and Government Support

The Indian government has pledged to fully fund this strategic drilling campaign. The ₹3,200 crore budget includes payments to BP for their technical services, reflecting strong governmental commitment to enhancing domestic energy capabilities.

### Importance for India’s Energy Security

India is heavily reliant on oil and gas imports, with nearly 88% of its oil consumption and about half its natural gas demand met through imports. This dependence costs the country approximately $150 billion annually.

In an effort to reduce this import bill and achieve greater energy self-sufficiency, the government has taken significant steps, including slashing ‘no-go’ zones by 99%. This policy shift has unlocked over one million square kilometers of India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) for oil and gas exploration.

### Enhancing Exploration Potential

Further bolstering India’s exploration drive, a Data Center was launched in 2022 at the University of Houston to showcase sedimentary basin data. Additionally, the National Data Repository (NDR) has been upgraded to a cloud-based platform for better data accessibility.

Global energy giants such as ExxonMobil and Chevron have acquired Indian basin data, signaling increased international confidence in India’s vast exploration potential.

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This stratigraphic drilling campaign by ONGC and OIL marks a significant step toward India’s goal of enhancing domestic hydrocarbon production and strengthening its energy security in the coming years.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/ongongc-oil-to-begin-deep-sea-stratigraphic-drilling-in-early-2026c/story

business, finance, insurance, policy, regulation

Insurers to pass full GST benefit to customers

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**Insurers to Pass Full GST Benefit to Customers**
*By Akash Pandey | Sep 21, 2025, 06:47 PM*

Insurance companies are preparing to implement the new Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates starting Monday. According to industry insiders, insurers will pass on the entire GST reduction directly to customers without altering product prices for the time being.

This initiative is expected to boost demand slightly, as many customers had postponed their insurance purchases in anticipation of the new tax regime.

**Implementation Status**

While some insurers are ready with their entire product portfolio updated to reflect the new GST rates, others may initially offer only their best-selling products. This phased approach will continue until all offerings are aligned with the revised tax structure.

This move is part of a broader industry effort to comply with the updated tax regulations while maintaining affordable insurance options for consumers.

**Margin Concerns**

Despite passing on the GST cut, insurers remain cautious about the potential impact on profit margins due to the withdrawal of input tax credit. The revised tax structure is seen as part of the government’s wider strategy to simplify and streamline taxation across sectors.

However, the long-term effects of these changes on both businesses and consumers are yet to be fully understood.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/insurers-to-pass-on-gst-reduction-to-customers/story

controversy, international relations, politics, social issues, sports

Asia Cup: Sahibzada Farhan’s gun gesture after half-century draws flak

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**Asia Cup: Sahibzada Farhan’s Gun Gesture After Half-Century Draws Flak**

*By Rajdeep Saha | September 21, 2025, 9:53 PM*

Pakistan cricketer Sahibzada Farhan’s celebration following his half-century in the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 clash against India has sparked widespread criticism and controversy.

During the match held on September 21 at the Dubai International Stadium, Farhan reached his 50 runs in style by smashing a huge six off India’s Axar Patel in the 10th over, injecting momentum into Pakistan’s innings. However, his subsequent celebration raised eyebrows — Farhan made a firing gun gesture pointed towards his dugout.

This act quickly drew backlash on social media, given the sensitive context. The incident occurred only months after the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, where 26 innocent Indian tourists lost their lives in an assault claimed to be carried out by Pakistan-based militants. Many fans interpreted Farhan’s gesture as highly inappropriate and disrespectful in light of recent events.

**Public Reaction and Outrage**

Social media users were swift to express their disappointment and anger over Farhan’s celebration. One fan tweeted, “Disappointed with Sahibzada Farhan’s gun gesture after his 50 in the Ind vs Pak match. Felt like a jab at India’s hospitality.” Another harshly commented, “Sahibzada Farhan showing how his brothers killed innocent tourists in Pahalgam through his half-century celebration.”

The gesture not only overshadowed Farhan’s on-field performance but also intensified tensions between cricket fans amid the longstanding rivalry between the two nations.

**Match Summary**

In the Super 4 clash, Pakistan faced early setbacks as they lost three wickets in the powerplay overs. Farhan gave a fighting effort, scoring 58 runs off 45 balls before being dismissed by Shivam Dube.

Earlier wickets included Saim Ayub, who was taken out by Dube after scoring 21, and Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman, controversially caught behind by Sanju Samson off Hardik Pandya’s bowling. Kuldeep Yadav also claimed the wicket of Hussain Talat as India aimed to restrict Pakistan’s scoring.

The match remains a high-stakes encounter as both teams compete fiercely in the Asia Cup tournament.

—

*Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth analysis of the Asia Cup 2025.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/pakistan-cricketer-sahibzada-farhan-s-gun-gesture-anger-fans/story

celebrity, entertainment, film, indian cinema

Mohanlal’s ‘Drishyam 3’ to begin filming tomorrow

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**Mohanlal’s ‘Drishyam 3’ to Begin Filming Tomorrow**

*By Isha Sharma | September 21, 2025, 05:35 PM*

Mohanlal, the lead actor of the acclaimed *Drishyam* franchise, has officially announced that filming for *Drishyam 3* will commence on September 22. He shared this exciting news with the media a day after being honored with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award.

The Dadasaheb Phalke Award will be presented to Mohanlal at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony in New Delhi on September 23. This makes him only the second Malayali actor to receive this esteemed accolade, following legendary filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan.

### Production Details and What to Expect

Mohanlal revealed that the production for *Drishyam 3* will begin with a traditional pooja ceremony. Following this, he plans to travel to New Delhi to attend the National Film Awards event.

The *Drishyam* franchise began in 2013, centered around the story of Georgekutty, a cable TV operator who goes to great lengths to protect his family after a crime. The sequel, *Drishyam 2*, released in 2021, continued this gripping narrative several years later.

Director Jeethu Joseph has previously hinted that *Drishyam 3* will be a natural continuation of Georgekutty’s story. Unlike the second installment, which featured a complex thriller format, the upcoming film is expected to adopt a different narrative style.

### Franchise Evolution and Global Reach

The *Drishyam* films have enjoyed tremendous success and have been remade across various Indian languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada. The story has even been adapted into Chinese, making it one of the most widely remade Indian film franchises worldwide.

Mohanlal was last seen in the film *Hridayapoorvam* and continues to captivate audiences with his versatile performances.

Stay tuned for more updates on *Drishyam 3* as the production unfolds.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/mohanlal-shares-update-on-drishyam-3/story

apple, design, manufacturing, smartphones, technology

iPhone Air gives a sneak peek at Apple’s upcoming foldable

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**iPhone Air Gives a Sneak Peek at Apple’s Upcoming Foldable**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 21, 2025, 06:30 PM*

Apple’s much-anticipated foldable iPhone, expected to launch next year, might resemble two iPhone Air devices placed side by side. This insight comes from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in his latest Power On newsletter.

### Design Speculation: The iPhone Air Prototype

The design of the foldable iPhone has sparked speculation that the iPhone Air may have served as a prototype for Apple’s first foldable device. The thin, sleek look of the iPhone Air could be a precursor to the design language Apple plans to implement in its foldable phone. Reports indicate that the foldable model will feature a titanium chassis, making it a notable technical marvel.

### Manufacturing Insights: Production in China

Contrary to earlier reports suggesting production would start in India, Gurman’s report reveals that Apple will manufacture the foldable iPhone primarily in China, with at least some production continuing there.

### Pricing and Launch Schedule

The foldable iPhone is expected to be priced around $2,000 (approximately ₹1.66 lakh), with some earlier rumors indicating a price range between $2,100 and $2,300 (₹1.75 lakh to ₹1.91 lakh).

Apple is likely to launch the iPhone Fold alongside the iPhone 18 series in the fall of 2026, with an official unveiling anticipated in September. However, similar to previous launches like the iPhone X in 2017, the release could be pushed to October or November.

Stay tuned as Apple gears up to introduce what could be its most innovative iPhone yet.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/apple-s-foldable-iphone-could-closely-resemble-iphone-air-design/story

conflict, government, international relations, Middle East, politics

Palestinian foreign minister says recognition brings independence, sovereignty closer

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Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian stated that the recognition of a Palestinian state by several countries this week represents an irreversible step that brings independence and sovereignty closer. This move is seen as preserving the two-state solution, which remains a critical goal for peace in the region.

Countries recognizing a Palestinian state are contributing to the realization of long-standing aspirations for Palestinian self-determination. Such diplomatic developments highlight growing international support for a negotiated settlement based on two states, living side by side in peace and security.

Photo credit: REUTERS/BORUT ZIVULOVIC

https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868276

celebrity, entertainment, film, indian cinema

Mohanlal’s ‘Drishyam 3’ to begin filming tomorrow

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**Mohanlal’s ‘Drishyam 3’ to Begin Filming Tomorrow**

*By Isha Sharma | Sep 21, 2025, 05:35 PM*

Mohanlal, the acclaimed lead actor of the *Drishyam* franchise, has confirmed that filming for *Drishyam 3* will commence on September 22. The announcement came during a media interaction, just a day after Mohanlal was honored with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award.

The esteemed award will be presented at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony in New Delhi on September 23. Notably, Mohanlal is only the second Malayali actor to receive this distinguished accolade, following in the footsteps of filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan.

**Production Details and What to Expect from ‘Drishyam 3’**

Mohanlal shared that the production of *Drishyam 3* will officially begin with a traditional pooja ceremony. Following the commencement of the shoot, he plans to head to New Delhi to attend the National Film Awards.

The *Drishyam* franchise first captivated audiences in 2013 with the story of Georgekutty, a cable TV operator who goes to great lengths to protect his family after a crime. The sequel, *Drishyam 2*, released in 2021, continued the gripping narrative several years later.

Director Jeethu Joseph had earlier indicated that *Drishyam 3* would be a natural progression of Georgekutty’s story, moving away from the complex thriller format of the previous installment.

**Franchise Evolution and Adaptations**

The *Drishyam* series has garnered widespread acclaim and has been remade in multiple Indian languages including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada. It has also been adapted into Chinese, making it one of the most widely adapted Indian film franchises globally.

Mohanlal was most recently seen in the film *Hridayapoorvam*. Fans eagerly await the next chapter in the *Drishyam* saga as production begins tomorrow.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/mohanlal-shares-update-on-drishyam-3/story

apple, design, manufacturing, smartphones, technology

iPhone Air gives a sneak peek at Apple’s upcoming foldable

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**iPhone Air Gives a Sneak Peek at Apple’s Upcoming Foldable**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 21, 2025, 06:30 PM*

Apple’s highly anticipated foldable iPhone, expected to launch next year, might resemble two iPhone Airs placed side by side. This intriguing insight comes from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in his latest Power On newsletter. The design is said to be a technical marvel, featuring a premium titanium chassis.

### Design Speculation: iPhone Air as a Prototype?

The sleek and thin design of the iPhone Air has sparked speculation that Apple may have used it as a prototype for its first foldable phone. Observers suggest that the lightweight, elegant look of the iPhone Air could hint at the aesthetic direction Apple is taking with its upcoming foldable device.

### Manufacturing Insights: Production to Begin in China

Contrary to earlier reports that production would start in India, Gurman’s report indicates that Apple will be manufacturing the foldable iPhone primarily in China, with at least some production occurring there. This aligns with Apple’s continued reliance on China-based supply chains for its flagship products.

### Price and Launch Timeline

The foldable iPhone is expected to start at a price of around $2,000 (approximately ₹1.66 lakh), though earlier reports suggested a price range between $2,100 and $2,300 (₹1.75 lakh to ₹1.91 lakh).

Apple plans to launch the iPhone Fold alongside the iPhone 18 series, likely in September 2026. However, the launch could be slightly delayed to October or November, following a pattern similar to past releases like the iPhone X in 2017.

Stay tuned as we get closer to Apple’s next big innovation!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/apple-s-foldable-iphone-could-closely-resemble-iphone-air-design/story