MANILA, Philippines — Adis Lagumdzija erupted for 28 points to send Turkiye to its first-ever FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship quarterfinal after ousting the Netherlands, 27-29, 25-23, 25-16, 25-19, on Saturday at Mall of Asia Arena.
After a round of 16 exit at the hands of the USA in 2022, Turkiye made its breakthrough to advance further in the tournament this year.
https://sports.inquirer.net/640962/fivb-mens-world-turkiye-books-first-ever-trip-to-quarterfinals
US President Donald Trump has introduced a new visa policy that could have significant implications for India’s real estate market.
This policy change is expected to influence investment flows and the behavior of non-resident Indians (NRIs) looking to purchase property in India. Experts suggest that any alterations in visa norms can directly affect the demand and pricing within the real estate sector.
Stakeholders in the Indian real estate market are closely monitoring the situation to assess potential impacts and adjust their strategies accordingly. Further updates on the policy and its effects are awaited.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/trump-s-h-1b-fee-threatens-india-s-property-boom-in-tech-hubs/story
**Trump’s New H-1B Visa Fee Will Drive Start-Ups to India: Amitabh Kant**
*By Akash Pandey | September 20, 2025, 03:07 PM*
Amitabh Kant, former G20 Sherpa and ex-CEO of NITI Aayog, has voiced strong opinions regarding US President Donald Trump’s newly announced H-1B visa policy. In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), Kant highlighted that the proposed $100,000 annual fee per H-1B visa worker would stifle innovation within the United States while providing a significant boost to India’s rapidly growing startup ecosystem.
According to Kant, by effectively shutting its doors to global talent, America risks shifting technology labs and startups to Indian cities such as Bangalore, Pune, Gurugram, and Hyderabad. He emphasized that this policy shift presents a unique opportunity for India’s top doctors, engineers, scientists, and innovators to contribute meaningfully to the country’s developmental goals.
### An Opportunity for a ‘Viksit Bharat’
Kant described the new US visa restrictions as a potential catalyst for India’s ambition to become a developed nation—often referred to as ‘Viksit Bharat’. With Indian professionals historically dominating the H-1B visa program, the move could propel domestic innovation and entrepreneurship at home.
Last year, Indian nationals accounted for approximately 71% of approved H-1B visa beneficiaries, according to official government data. This statistic underscores the pivotal role Indian talent has played in shaping the US technology landscape.
### Understanding the New H-1B Policy
The Trump administration’s executive order aims to curb abuses of the H-1B program and prioritize American workers. The new rules apply to both new applications and renewals, introducing a steep $100,000 annual fee per skilled worker under the visa program. Additionally, a “gold card” program has been launched, offering expedited visas for wealthy investors willing to invest up to $2 million in the US economy.
Major technology companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta have historically received thousands of H-1B approvals under the previous rules, leveraging global talent to drive growth.
### Potential Impact on US Industries
These changes, which take effect from September 21, 2025, could severely affect several crucial sectors in the US, including healthcare, higher education, and technology. The steep fees may deter companies from hiring skilled international workers, potentially leading to talent shortages.
While the new policy is expected to face legal challenges, if upheld, it would significantly increase the cost of employing foreign professionals under the H-1B program.
### Global Talent Shift: ‘America’s Loss, India’s Gain’
Amitabh Kant’s remarks serve as a strong endorsement of India’s ability to fill the innovation void that might be created by America’s tighter immigration rules. He stated, “America’s loss will be India’s gain,” underscoring the vast pool of Indian doctors, engineers, scientists, and innovators who are now positioned to contribute substantially to India’s growth story.
As the H-1B program remains a critical gateway for Indian engineers and professionals impacting the global tech industry, the evolving US visa landscape could reshape the innovation map, favoring India’s burgeoning technology hubs.
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*Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth analyses on global tech and policy shifts.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/trump-s-h-1b-fee-hurts-us-but-helps-india-amitabh-kant/story
**Trump’s H-1B Fee Will Drive Start-ups to India: Amitabh Kant**
*By Akash Pandey | Sep 20, 2025, 03:07 PM*
Amitabh Kant, former G20 Sherpa and ex-CEO of NITI Aayog, has voiced strong opinions on the recent changes to the US H-1B visa policy introduced by President Donald Trump. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Kant highlighted that the newly imposed $100,000 annual fee for each H-1B visa worker could stifle innovation in the United States while accelerating growth in India.
According to Kant, America’s decision to restrict global talent inflow is effectively pushing research labs and start-ups to Indian cities such as Bangalore, Pune, Gurugram, and Hyderabad. This shift, he argues, presents India with a unique opportunity to boost its innovation ecosystem and move closer to realizing the vision of *Viksit Bharat* (Developed India).
**Opportunity for India’s Talent**
Kant emphasized that India’s top doctors, engineers, scientists, and innovators now have an unprecedented chance to lead the nation’s development in technology and innovation. Given that Indian professionals have been significant beneficiaries of the H-1B visa program—accounting for 71% of approvals last year—this policy shift could redirect global talent and investment back to India.
**Understanding the H-1B Visa Changes**
The new H-1B visa rules, effective from September 21, 2025, aim to curb abuses within the program while prioritizing American workers. Besides the steep $100,000 annual fee per visa worker, the policy introduces a “gold card” program designed to attract wealthy investors who can make expedited visa applications by investing up to $2 million in the US.
Major US tech companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta have historically utilized the H-1B program extensively, with thousands of approvals under the previous regulations. The updated policy changes could have significant repercussions across America’s healthcare, higher education, and technology industries due to increased costs and stricter requirements.
**Impact and Industry Response**
While the new rules could face legal challenges, if upheld, they may compel companies to rethink their international hiring strategies, potentially reducing opportunities for skilled global workers in the US market. The steep fees could discourage start-ups and innovation hubs from building operations stateside.
**Global Shift: ‘America’s Loss Is India’s Gain’**
Summarizing his views, Amitabh Kant stated, “America’s loss will be India’s gain.” He further praised India’s pool of talented professionals, noting they are well-equipped to fill the innovation gap left by the US’s restrictive approach.
As India stands ready to harness this opportunity, the global technology landscape could see a significant pivot toward Indian innovation centers, reshaping the future of start-ups and research worldwide.
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*For more updates on international policies and tech innovation, stay tuned.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/trump-s-h-1b-fee-hurts-us-but-helps-india-amitabh-kant/story
**BMW Crash Case: Court Defers Gaganpreet Kaur’s Bail Hearing**
*By Snehil Singh | September 20, 2025, 3:07 PM*
A Delhi court has postponed the bail hearing of Gaganpreet Kaur, the prime accused in a fatal BMW accident that resulted in the death of Deputy Secretary Navjot Singh and injuries to his wife, Sandeep.
The hearing in the Patiala House Court has been deferred to September 24 after the police requested additional time to collect key pieces of evidence, including Kaur’s mobile phone and driving license. Investigators informed Judicial Magistrate Ankit Garg that they oppose granting bail at this stage since the probe is still in its early phases.
**Evidence Collection Underway**
Kaur’s phone, currently held by her husband Parikshit Makkad, is considered crucial for the investigation. The police revealed that the device contains important messages sent after the crash. Makkad is expected to hand over the phone to authorities shortly.
Meanwhile, Gaganpreet Kaur remains in judicial custody until September 27. She faces charges of culpable homicide not amounting to murder and rash driving related to the accident.
**Preservation of CCTV Footage**
The court has also issued a notice on an application seeking the preservation of CCTV footage from the accident site. On Thursday, the court observed that there is no legal provision for sharing such footage with the accused in a criminal case.
The police have registered cases under several penal provisions, including culpable homicide not amounting to murder, rash driving, and negligent driving, following the incident.
**Details of the Incident**
The accident occurred on September 14 around 1:00 PM near Dhaula Kuan. Navjot Singh and his wife were riding a motorcycle back from Bangla Sahib Gurdwara when they were struck by Kaur’s BMW. Parikshit Makkad was seated in the passenger seat of the BMW at the time of the crash.
Authorities are also investigating possible attempts to tamper with evidence after the accident. This includes probing Kaur’s alleged visit to a hospital located nearly 19 kilometers away from the accident site.
The investigation continues as the court awaits further developments before proceeding with the bail hearing.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/delhi-bmw-crash-court-postpones-bail-hearing-to-september-24/story
**Saturn to Appear Closest to Earth Tomorrow: How to Watch**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 20, 2025, 04:20 PM*
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**What’s the Story?**
Tomorrow, Saturn will reach opposition, making it the brightest and largest it will appear in the night sky. Opposition occurs when Earth aligns directly between Saturn and the Sun, forming a straight line. At this time, Saturn is fully illuminated by sunlight and appears especially prominent. This celestial event happens once every 378 days.
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**When and Where to See Saturn**
If you’re in Delhi, Saturn will be visible from 6:24 PM tomorrow until 6:15 AM the following day. The Moon will be in its new phase during the night of opposition, providing a dark sky with minimal light interference.
Saturn will rise in the east around sunset and set in the west at dawn, making it visible throughout the night. To locate Saturn and other planets easily, stargazers can use online tools like [stellarium-web.org](https://stellarium-web.org).
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**Tips for the Best Viewing Experience**
To get the best view of Saturn:
– Choose a location away from artificial light sources.
– Allow your eyes 15-30 minutes to adjust to the dark.
– If using a flashlight, opt for a red light to preserve night vision.
Saturn will be visible in the constellation Pisces and bright enough to see with the naked eye. Using binoculars or a telescope will reveal more intricate details, including the stunning rings.
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**Understanding Saturn’s Ring Brightening: The Seeliger Effect**
Around the time of opposition, Saturn’s rings exhibit a brightening phenomenon known as the Seeliger effect. This occurs when sunlight reflects directly off the ring particles, reducing shadows and making the rings appear more luminous. This effect is most noticeable in the days surrounding opposition.
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Even if weather or other conditions are not ideal tomorrow, Saturn will remain bright and well-positioned in the night sky for several days, giving ample opportunity for observation. Don’t miss this spectacular celestial event!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/saturn-to-reach-opposition-on-september-21-how-to-watch/story
The WNBA semifinals are set, and a new champion is guaranteed after all four remaining teams faced tough challenges in the opening round.
Minnesota, Las Vegas, and Phoenix have all made it this far in recent years, showcasing their consistency and experience in the postseason.
Meanwhile, Indiana, even without the injured Caitlin Clark, achieved a significant milestone by winning a playoff series for the first time in franchise history.
As these teams prepare for the next phase of the competition, fans can expect intense matchups and exciting basketball.
https://sports.inquirer.net/640915/wnba-semifinals-set-minnesota-las-vegas-phoenix-and-indiana
Zimbabwean match referee Andy Pycroft, who the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) requested to be banned from Asia Cup 2025 following the controversial handshake incident, will reportedly officiate the Super 4 match between Pakistan and India on Sunday, September 21.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) rejected PCB’s request to ban Pycroft from the remainder of the tournament. Despite the controversy, Pycroft officiated Pakistan’s recent match against the UAE without any changes.
The controversy arose after the Group stage match between India and Pakistan, when the PCB released a statement claiming that Pycroft had instructed captains Suryakumar Yadav and Salman Ali Agha not to shake hands. Pakistan was visibly upset over the Indian players not shaking hands, with Agha notably skipping the post-game presentation duties in protest.
Before the match against the UAE, the PCB had formally written to the ICC requesting Pycroft’s ban, citing a violation of the spirit of cricket. The Pakistan vs. UAE match was also surrounded by rumors of a potential boycott from Pakistan’s side. However, after an hour’s delay, the game proceeded as scheduled.
Looking back at recent performances, both Team India and Pakistan secured victories in their previous matches. India defeated Oman, while Pakistan managed a 41-run win over the UAE. Though Pakistan will draw confidence from their recent win, they face a challenging task in overcoming the formidable Indian side.
In their Group Stage encounter, the Men in Blue outplayed Pakistan comprehensively, winning by seven wickets. While India rested key players Jasprit Bumrah and Varun Chakravarthy against Oman, both are expected to return for the high-stakes clash with Pakistan.
For Pakistan to triumph over India, they will need to deliver an exceptional performance. The Super 4 stage of the Asia Cup kicks off on Sunday with Sri Lanka facing Bangladesh, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling tournament phase.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/asia-cup-2025-andy-pycroft-who-pcb-requested-to-be-removed-over-handshake-row-set-to-officiate-ind-vs-pak-super-4-clash-claims-report
New Delhi: The Department of Consumer Affairs on Saturday launched a dedicated GST grievance category on the National Consumer Helpline to address queries and complaints related to the GST 2.0 reforms.
The National Consumer Helpline can be accessed via the toll-free number 1915 or online in 16 Indian languages and English. It functions as a single pre-litigation point of access for consumers across the country to register grievances at the pre-litigation stage.
Consumers can also register GST-related complaints through the Integrated Grievance Redressal Mechanism (INGRAM) portal. This portal covers key sectors such as automobiles, banking, consumer durables, e-commerce, and fast-moving consumer goods.
The new GST reforms are set to take effect from September 22. To address the expected consumer queries and complaints following the implementation of revised GST charges, rates, and exemptions, a dedicated category has been enabled on the INGRAM portal, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution said.
On September 11, officials from the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) conducted an inaugural training session to equip National Consumer Helpline counsellors to handle GST-related queries and grievances effectively.
The Ministry highlighted that consumer complaint data and insights will be shared with affected companies, the CBIC, and other authorities. This collaborative approach aims to enable prompt action under relevant laws, enhance GST compliance, and support a participatory governance model.
The National Consumer Helpline’s omni-channel platform supports multiple registration modes, including WhatsApp, SMS, email, a dedicated app, web portal, and the Umang app, the ministry added.
Significant technological upgrades have boosted the helpline’s call-handling capacity. Call volumes increased from 12,553 in December 2015 to 1,55,138 in December 2024. Similarly, the average number of complaints registered per month rose from 37,062 in 2017 to 1,70,585 in 2025, with around 65% of grievances now filed digitally.
Each complaint is assigned a unique docket number to ensure transparent tracking and resolution, the ministry noted.
*(Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/national-consumer-helpline-now-accepts-gst-related-complaints-in-16-languages-to-address-queries-and-disputes-effectively
MANILA, Philippines — Sister teams ZUS Coffee and Farm Fresh on Friday unveiled their respective imports ahead of October’s PVL Reinforced Conference.
ZUS Coffee signed American outside spiker Anna DeBeer, while Farm Fresh tapped former Belgium national team player Helene Rousseaux.
READ: PVL: Riza Nogales, ZUS’ third-round pick shows upside
ZUS made back-to-back playoff runs in recent seasons, aiming to build on their strong performance with the addition of DeBeer.
