AV 4th October 2025

I M M I G R A N T S

U N D E R A T T A C K A G A I N

Immigrants in the UK face rising racial hostility, echoing Southall 1979 Amid attacks, surveillance fears grow with Starmer’s BritCard digital ID, criticised as discriminatory, intrusive, and costly for lawabiding migrants and international students. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood’s proposal, extending the wait for ILR from five to ten years doesn’t help the “multicultural Britain” case either

Welcome to the United Kingdom, where history seems to be repeating itself Immigrants are once again facing protests, harassment and attacks Thankfully, unlike the Southall riots of 1979, there have been no murders Yet

Just as in 1979, the far-right recently marched across London under the guise of protesting illegal immigration, though in reality it was a racist rally Communities rallied against it, just as Southall residents confronted the National Front decades ago The government’s response today mirrors the past During the Southall riots, Prime Minister James Callaghan and the Home Secretary refused to intervene to block a controversial far-right meeting, despite calls from the Ealing Labour Party and the Commission for Racial Equality Similarly, Keir Starmer has upheld the right to peaceful protest, even amid mounting tensions

Victims bear the brunt while communities rally

But what about the victims? The Sikh woman raped on the day of the protest, classified by police as a racially aggravated assault did not deserve what happened to her. Sikh men marched through the streets of Birmingham demanding justice for her in a move of showing support and solidarity. But why must communities repeatedly rally to protect victims from within their own ranks? Why should families suffer simply because of the colour of their skin while trying to make an honest living in a country that is, and always has been, part of their history?

‘Racially aggravated’ graffiti on Gandhi statue sparks community outrage

India demands immediate action after the statue at Tavistock square, London, is vandalised, ahead of Gandhi Jayanti The recent anti-India graffiti appears to be a direct attack on the diaspora Could this be a deliberate attempt to defame India or intimidate British Indians?

Subhasini Naicker

Just days ahead of Gandhi Jayanti, Mahatma Gandhi’s statue at Tavistock Square in London was vandalised

The plinth of the iconic statue, depicting the Father of the Nation in a meditative seated pose, was defaced with disturbing graffiti, including the words “Terrorists” and “Gandhi, Modi and Hindustani [Indians]” spray-painted in black

Continued on 11

Keir Starmer and Sadiq Khan push back after Trump targets London at UN

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has dismissed former US President Donald Trump’s recent claim that London is moving toward Islamic Sharia law, calling t he asse rtion “ n onsen se ” a nd de fe ndin g Lon don Mayor Sadiq Khan

Trump, speaking at the United Nations earlier this week, sharply criticised immigration policies in Europe, singling out London and describing Khan as a “terrible, terrible mayor, ” while claiming the city was headed toward Sharia law

Starmer told IT V London, “The idea of the introduction of Sharia law is nonsense and Sadiq Khan is a very good man There are few things I disagree with Trump on, but I’m ver y clear, this is one of them ”

Responding to the UN comments, Khan accused Trump of being “racist, sexist, misogynistic, and Islamophobic ” Highlighting the growing number of Americans relocating to Britain, Khan told Metro, “People will be wondering what it is about this Muslim mayor who leads a liberal, multicultural, successful, diverse city It seems to me that I’m living rent-free

inside Donald Trump’s head ”

When pressed about Trump’s apparent f ixation, Khan joked, “I think he’s got a crush on me It’s either that or he believes in giving me squatters’ rights inside his head ”

A spokesperson for Khan added that the mayor would “not dignify his appalling and bigoted comments with a response, ” while Khan told Sky News that the remarks demonstrated Trump’s prejudice “He is racist, he is sexist, he is misogynistic, and he is Islamophobic ” Trump’s remarks came just a week after his second state visit to Britain, which included royal ceremonies, a carriage tour, and a whitetie banquet, during which

he praised the U S -UK relationship

Sadiq Khan became the f irst Muslim mayor of London in 2016 and has since won two more terms, holding the largest personal mandate of any British politician He has now conf irmed that he intends to run for a fourth term in 2028, ruling out a return to Westminster politics and insisting he has “the best job in politics ”

Speaking to LBC Radio, Khan said, “I have the best job in politics Londoners have lent me their votes on three occasions, and as long as I continue to feel I can deliver for this great city of ours, I’ll carry on being the Mayor I have no intention of leaving this job ”

L abour restores whip to Apsana Begum after benefit cap rebellion

L abour ha s restor ed the pa rty whip to A psa na B eg um as well as John McDonnell , 14 months after suspen ding t hem for rebelling against the twochild benef it cap, according to the Guardian

The decision followed a meeting with Jonathan Reynolds, Labour’s new chief whip after this month’s reshuffle

Responding to the news, Begum said she would “ continue to expose the twochild limit at every opportunity” She added, “Child poverty is a matter of conscience for me: 44 6% of children in my constituency live in poverty Calls to scrap the policy are growing, from the children’s commissioner to members of the govern-

ment’s own child-poverty taskforce ” Begum and McDonnell were among seven MPs who lost the whip in July 2024 for backing an amendment to the King’s Speech demanding an end to the cap, which has been widely linked to rising child poverty

Four of those MPs:

Starmer’s communications chief steps down

At this point, No 10 appea rs to b e executing a one-in, one-out scheme of its own , as Keir Starmer’s head of c om

h ) Drive r, has an noun ce d he r de part ure f rom Downing St ree t, becoming the latest in a string of senior aides to quit in recent months

Driver, who had worked alongside Starmer for f ive years as his communications chief in opposition before moving to senior roles in government, was seen as one of the prime minister’s most trusted advisers Her exit follows that of Paul Ovenden, Starmer’s director of political strategy, and James Lyons, director of communications for strategy, both of whom left earlier this month

The changes prompted a shake-up of Labour’s communications operation, with Tim Allan, a former adviser to Tony Blair and founder of the PR f irm Portland, appointed as executive director of government communications His role placed him above both Driver and Lyons, who previously held equal status

Although Starmer and his chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, urged her to stay, Driver chose to step down after discussions about the new team structure and a period of leave following a family bereavement

Record £480m saved in fraud crackdown

The government prevented £480 million from falling into the hands of fraudsters in 2024–25, a record sum, according to the Cabinet Off ice

I N B R I E F SADIQ KHAN HITS BACK OVER LONDON CRIME STATISTICS

London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has defended the capital’s safety record, hitting back at politicians he accused of “spreading misinformation” after data showed violent crimes causing injury have fallen in every borough over the past year Figures from the Mayor ’s Office for Policing and Crime show that, compared with the previous 12 months, there were 8,749 fewer violent crimes resulting in injury; a drop of nearly 12 per cent across London Khan said “ We ve seen politicians here and across the globe spreading misinformation about crime and safety in the capital The evidence is clear our approach to tackling crime and its complex causes works It ’s driving down violence across London According to the mayor s office, overall homicides in London fell 17 per cent in the year to June, and the capital s homicide rate remains lower than Paris Brussels, Berlin and all major US cities Analysis from the Office for National Statistic s also shows Londoners are less likely to be victims of violent crime than elsewhere in England and Wales

JENRICK: TORY HOPEFULS MUST BACK LEAVING ECHR

Rebecca Long-Bailey, Ian Byrne, Imran Hussain and Richard Burgon were reinstated in February The seventh, Zarah Sultana, has since cut ties with Labour and is working with Jeremy Corbyn to form a new leftwing party

Several former Labour MPs remain without the whip In July, Rachael Maskell, Neil DuncanJordan, Brian Leishman and Chris Hinchliff were suspended after leading rebellions on welfare policy, winter fuel cuts, and planning reforms

The continuing suspensions, alongside repeated rebellions over key welfare and social policies, inevitably raise questions about the depth of conf idence Labour MPs have in Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s leadership and direction of the party

The views, thoughts and opinions expressed by our readers, letter writers and columnists are solely their own and do not necessarily ref lect the views or policies of our publication.

The savings, led by the Public Sector Fraud Authority, were around £110 million higher than the previous year and represent the government’s “biggest ever fraud crackdown ”

Announcing the f igure at an anti-fraud Five Eyes summit in London, Cabinet Off ice Minister Josh Simons said, “Working people expect their taxes to go towards schools, hospitals, roads, and the services they and their families rely on That money being stolen by fraudsters is a betrayal of their hard work and of the system of paying your fair share It has to stop

“That’s why this government has delivered the toughest ever crackdown on fraud, protecting almost half a billion pounds in under 12 months ”

More than a third of the money saved (£186 million) came from identifying and recovering fraud linked to the Covid-19 pandemic

The Cabinet Off ice said its efforts have prevented hundreds of thousands of companies with outstanding or potentially fraudulent Bounce Back Loans from dissolving without repayment, and recovered millions from businesses that claimed Covid support they were not entitled to, including those that took multiple loans when only eligible for one

Robert Jenrick has warned that future Conservative candidates should be forced to back withdrawal from the European convention on human rights (ECHR) or stand down The shadow justice secretary said he would require would-be MPs “to sign a contract to say they actually stand for Conservative values” Leaving the treaty is not currently official Tory policy Jenrick ’s stance goes further than party leader Kemi Badenoch who during her leadership campaign argued that quitting the ECHR would not be a silver bullet for solving immigration challenges His intervention will be seen as part of a wider push to shift the Conservatives further to the right, alarming one -nation Tories who fear being driven out The party is expected to unveil its formal position on the ECHR at its annual conference next month

STUDENT LOAN DEBT CRISIS DEEPENS IN UK

More than 150,000 people in the UK now owe over £100,000 in student loans, with one borrower ’s debt nearing £300,000, new figures reveal Data obtained by Royal London through a freedom of information request to the Student Loans Company (SLC ) shows the number of people with six-figure balances has jumped by a third in just six months, from 113 029 in January to 150,450 by the end of June The findings will alarm many of the students beginning university this autumn, as the scale of borrowing continues to grow In total more than 2 6 million people currently owe at least £50 000 while the average debt for last year s English graduates stands at £53 000 Royal London said the soaring numbers reflect a combination of rising tuition fees higher living costs and longer repayment periods under newer loan systems The firm warned these debt sentences are preventing graduates from saving, investing, or buying a home

Publisher and Editor CB Patel cb.patel@abplgroup.com Managing Editor Rupanjana Dutta aveditorial@abplgroup.com

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Circle, Ambawadi, Ahmedabad-380 015

Website: www abplgroup com

Why Indian-Americans must break their silence on H-1B and tariffs

The Indian-American community in the United States has long been a silent observer on issues that directly affect both India and the diaspora Recent developments, such as the reintroduction of legislation aimed at reforming the H1B and L-1 visa programmes, have highlighted the need for a more vocal and active stance from this community

US Senators Chuck Grassley and Dick Durbin have reintroduced legislation seeking to address what they describe as loopholes and abuse by major companies using these visas The bill includes reforms such as increasing wage and hiring standards, requiring public job postings, and limiting visa eligibility This action follows the Trump administration’s recent imposition of a $100,000 fee on new H-1B applications, prompting further scrutiny

Indian politician Shashi Tharoor expressed concern over the Indian-American diaspora's lack of vocal engagement on critical issues such as H-1B visa restrictions and trade tariffs during a meeting with a visiting US Congressional delegation in New Delhi Tharoor found it surprising that the diaspora, which holds significant influence and presence in the US, has remained largely silent on matters that directly impact both Indians and IndianAmericans He urged the community to be more proactive and outspoken in advocating for policies that support mutual interests between the two nations He remarked, "This is surprising," and added, "If you care about the relationship with your motherland, then you also have to fight for it, speak for it, and press your political representatives to

stand up for India "

While some members of the diaspora argue that professional lobbyists are responsible for policy advocacy, Tharoor’s call emphasises the importance of grassroots involvement in shaping legislative decisions Individual and community action can make a difference in bringing attention to critical issues

To make their voices heard, Indian-Americans should engage in various forms of advocacy This can include writing to their elected representatives, participating in forums discussing H-1B visas and trade policies, and using diaspora organisations and media platforms to raise awareness Many US Congress members have welcomed delegations from India but admitted they had received few or no calls from Indian-Americans on these issues, indicating a gap in advocacy efforts Organisations such as political action committees and community advocacy groups provide vital platforms for Indian-Americans to engage with policymakers These groups help amplify community concerns, ensure dialogue with legislators, and create opportunities for coordinated advocacy

The Indian-American community should not remain passive in the face of policies that affect their livelihoods and the broader US-India relationship By actively participating in advocacy efforts, engaging with policymakers, and supporting organisations that represent their interests, they can ensure that their voices are heard and that their concerns are addressed in the legislative process

Love will overcome tragedy

The royal visit to Southport, where three young girls were cruelly murdered last July, has offered a moment of shared mourning and hope The Prince and Princess of Wales returned to the town to meet the bereaved families, to walk through schools, and to see the new memorial playground constructed in their memory In his address the Prince declared that “love will always overcome tragedy ”

On 29 July 2024, during a Taylor Swift–themed dance class, a teenage assailant attacked children with a knife

Three girls, Bebe King, aged six; Elsie Dot Stancombe, aged seven; and Alice da Silva Aguiar, aged nine, lost their lives

Ten others, including a teacher who intervened, were gravely injured In the months since, an official inquiry has sought to unravel how warning signs were missed and how social tensions inflamed public response

The royal couple’s return was both sensitive and symbolic They met privately with parents and caregivers, accepted tokens of memory, a friendship bracelet and posy, and listened to the stories of loss and resilience At a school, Prince William spoke in front of pupils: the new playground was not just a place to play but a “symbol of remembrance and resilience” and a living testament to bond in pain He paid tribute to the community for standing together in grief, saying the girls “will never be forgotten ”

Yet words, no matter how heartfelt, must be backed by

real change and accountability While the inquiry continues, one critical question lingers: how could a youth with a troubling history evade intervention until so much harm had been done?The lesson must be that systems of care, safeguarding, mental health support, social services and community outreach must be attentive, shared, and unafraid to act

It is essential to resist turning this tragedy into fuel for division After the attack, disinformation spread rapidly online, falsely tying the crime to religious motivations and stoking communal tensions Violence and hatred do not honour the memory of young lives lost The strongest response is one rooted in unity, empathy, justice, and repair

For the families enduring their heartbreak, the royal visit may not heal wounds, but it showed that their grief is shared by the wider nation For communities and institutions across Britain, it was a reminder that tragedies of this kind cannot be met with rote sympathy alone It demands vigilance, care, reform and conviction

In saying that love overcomes tragedy, the Prince spoke not to dismiss the suffering but to affirm the strength in human connection That message ought to guide more than memorials, it must guide action May the memory of Bebe, Elsie and Alice inspire more than tears; may it inspire change, compassion and renewed resolve

Sea of prosperity

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set out a bold maritime vision from Gujarat’s coastline His message was clear: the seas are not just trade routes, but the foundation of India’s future power and prosperity

Modi’s speech during the ‘Samudra Se Samriddhi’ programme in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, carried weight far beyond the state His words underscored the central role the sea will play in India’s growth story and in its wider place in the world This was not only a regional development announcement but a national and international statement of intent

The scale of investment itself was striking Development projects worth ₹34,200 crore (about £3 2 billion) were launched, of which ₹7,870 crore (about £740 million) was directed specifically to maritime and port sector projects The remainder, roughly ₹26,354 crore (about £2 5 billion), targeted general infrastructure and development in Gujarat Such numbers send a clear message: India is ready to treat the sea as a driver of prosperity rather than a neglected frontier

PM Modi reminded his audience that India once built 40 per cent of its trading ships domestically Today, that share has dropped to just 5 per cent He highlighted another sobering fact: India pays nearly USD 75 billion (about £61 billion) each year to foreign shipping companies, a figure almost equal to the country’s annual defence budget By pointing to these numbers, he identified dependence on foreign shipping as a strategic weakness His call was unambiguous: for India to be secure, it must revive its shipbuilding industry and not rely solely on foreign fleets

This ambition draws parallels with the maritime strength of the West Britain once commanded the world’s

oceans through its vast merchant fleet and naval supremacy, while the US today maintains one of the largest shipping networks and the most powerful navy Both nations have long understood that control of the seas is tied to economic might and national security By placing maritime growth at the centre of policy, India is signalling its desire to step into that league, with a model that combines commerce, infrastructure and resilience

The Indian PM emphasised this “multiplier effect” in his address, stressing how one maritime job supports several others down the supply chain

The speech also resonated in today’s global context With many Western nations debating immigration limits and expressing unease over foreign workers, India is making the case that its own growth can be built on the strength of its people at home

Modi framed maritime growth not only as an economic necessity but also as part of India’s civilisational heritage and moral duty He spoke of “ our only enemy being our dependence on other countries” and urged citizens to build confidence in their own capabilities By invoking unity and the ethos of “the world is one family”, he sought to anchor maritime ambition within India’s broader vision of selfreliance and international cooperation

The Bhavnagar address marks a clear shift It signals that India aims to reclaim its maritime heritage, reduce strategic dependence and stand as a stronger force in global trade If followed through, the programme could redefine not just Gujarat’s coastline but India’s wider role on the world stage

As PM Modi declared, “Our seas will not only connect us to the world, they will also give strength to India’s future ”

Thought for the week

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much ” -Helen K eller

Political Sketchbook

When Washington Closes a Door, London Opens One The UK’s Quiet Pitch to India’s H 1B Talent

In a sharp pivot, the U S just slapped an eye watering $100,000 fee on new H 1B visa applications. No, that’s not a typo. For many Indian engineers, researchers, and tech specialists, the American dream just cost more than their first car

Suddenly, the UK is flashing a signal: “We welcome you ” In recent days, British ministers have floated cutting visa fees, offering fast tracks for top talent, and positioning the country as a stable alternative to the chaos of U S policy swings

The UK’s “Global Talent” route is under review Fee waivers and reductions are being discussed not as a fringe idea, but a deliberate lure for global professionals

The idea: make the path easier, more predictable, less expensive

Add a deeper pull: under the new India UK trade deal, Indian workers posted to the UK may get three years of relief from UK social security contributions That’s effectively a boost to take home pay, making relocation more sensible for both employee and employer

Why does this matter? Because Indian professionals have long dominated the U S H 1B pool (about 70 % of approvals) But when the cost escalates tenfold, calculus changes Many early or mid career tech workers won’t want to gamble on opaque policies or sudden shifts Stability becomes a premium The US Silicon Valley was built by the H1B types whilst the UK got manual workers in the 1960s and 1970s The US sucked up all the talent and the rest of the world relied on trade with America to benefit Now that changes Indians who built America’s wealthiest companies can find a new home – UK Why not India? They were planning to leave anyway Why not Germany? Yes, indeed, that’s a big pull The Germans want them

Still, the U S remains a magnet: scale, capital, prestige, networks all still there But the widening gap between policy rhetoric and lived certainty is creating cracks The UK is trying to widen those cracks into an entryway

From India’s perspective, this is bittersweet Yes, you’d rather have talent go to a friendly democracy than be lost altogether But you’d also prefer it enriches Indian industry or returns home eventually Losing talent to the UK weakens your edge, especially in research, startups, and global projects It turns a brain drain into a brain diversion

London knows this is a moment If you can’t match the sheer scale of U S tech, you can match predictability, hospitality, and incentives For many, “Will my visa be fine?” now matters more than “Which company will I join?” That’s where the UK can win

Still, London has risks If visa reforms are half measures, administrative backlogs will kill momentum Anti immigration sentiment or political backlash could curtail incentives overnight And unless you have credible employment opportunities, talent won’t come just for the papers

The U S may have tightened its tap but it hasn’t turned it off Many companies will still pay for premium access But for thousands of Indian tech workers now caught between ambition and uncertainty, the UK has turned from consolation prize into contender

So watch this space Few could predict that a visa fee hike might redraw global talent flows But if London follows through, India’s next generation of coders and scientists may ask less, “How do I get to the U S ?” and more, “Why not start in the UK?”

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Family of murdered granddad forgive killer after prison death

The family of Birmingham g ran df athe r Moham med Saleem, who was murdered in a r acia ll y motiva ted attack by Pavlo Lapshyn in 2013, have spoken of their forgiveness for his killer

Saleem suffered catastrophic stab injuries, and it has now emerged that Lapshyn has died in prison

The Prisons Ombudsman has launched an investigation into the sudden death of Pavlo Lapshyn, aged 37, at Wakefield Prison

Mohammed Saleem’s family, led by daughter Maz Saleem, expressed ongoing grief but focused on forgiveness rather than celebration

Maz Saleem, daughter of Mohammed Saleem, confirmed to Five Pillars that Pavlo Lapshyn convicted of murdering her father and

committing acts of terror had died in his prison cell, though the circumstances remain unclear

She expressed forgiveness, saying: “This is not to condone what he did his actions were gravely wrong, but holding onto hatred serves no one My thoughts are with his family in Ukraine ” Maz also criticised delays in official communication and urged the media

to report with compassion and accuracy

Reflecting on her father’s loss, she added: “May they both rest in peace Surely we belong to God, and to Him we shall return ”

The prison service said: “This was an abhorrent crime and our thoughts remain with Mr Saleem’s friends and family Lapshyn died on 23 September 2025 at HMP Wakefield The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman will investigate ”

Lapshyn, 37 at his death, was a Ukrainian neo-Nazi terrorist A highly educated engineering student with a history of far-right extremism, he was sentenced to life with a minimum of 40 years for murder and plotting explosives

Man jailed for historic child sex abuse

A 56-year-old Leicestershire man has been jailed for a string of child sex offences dating back to the 1980s

Jayesh Khunti was found guilty at Leicester Crown Court of three rapes of a girl under 13, the sexual penetration of a boy, and 10 indecent assaults on boys and girls

The attacks, committed when Khunti was aged 15–20, took place between 1984 and 1989 in homes across Leicestershire, a shop storeroom, and Nottingham’s Victoria Centre

He denied all charges at his 2023 court appearance but was convicted by a jury earlier this year

Five victims gave harrowing statements at Jayesh

Khunti’s sentencing, describing lifelong trauma from his 1980s abuse

Another male victim said the abuse led him to “sabotage” all romantic relationships, admitting, “I crave intimacy but can ’t handle it ”

Defence lawyer Ravinder Saimbhi said Khunti continues to deny the crimes but accepts the jury’s verdict She noted he arrived in the UK at 12 without English, has no other convictions, and spent decades volunteering and contributing to the community factors she urged the court to consider Judge Steven Evans said Khunti “didn’t take no for an answer ” and told the

court he was legally required to reduce the sentence because Khunti was young when the crimes occurred Addressing victims present, he said, “They have suffered all their lives from what you have done You must bear responsibility These children were left entirely unprotected ”

Second victim dies in Wolverhampton shooting

A second man has died foll owing a W olve rha mpton shooting, police confirmed Duaine Mills, 28, was killed and 32-year-old Syed Zain

A li wa s wound ed when shots were fired on Leicester St ree t, W hitmore Re an s, around 03:10 BST on Friday Mr Ali later died in hospital, surrounded by his family, West Midlands Police said West Midlands Police have identified Mohammed Maneer Khan, 38, known as Manny, as a person of interest in the Wolverhampton shooting Detectives said they have made multiple attempts to locate and arrest him and are now appealing for the public’s help Det Insp Joe Davenport from the homicide team

said: “Tragically, a second life has been lost We are working around the clock to establish the full circumstances and trace the person responsible ” Det Insp Joe Davenport urged the public to help with “ ongoing efforts to bring Khan into custody ” He added: “The families of Duaine and Syed are devastated, and we remain fully committed to ensuring they get the justice their loved ones deserve ” The force confirmed that an increased police presence will continue in the area

Ambulance delays persist at hospitals

Desp ite so me pro gress , ambulances are still experiencing lengthy waits outside

Bi rmingham h osp itals

U niversity Hosp itals

Bi rmingham (U HB) NHS

F oundation Tru st board

members were informed that the trust is lagging behind its target to reduce h andover times

A report showed an "improving trend" across the

trust, with 45-minute handover breaches falling from 4,410 in June to 3,583 in July Queen Elizabeth and Good Hope hospitals improved their average handover times, while Heartlands worsened year on year Queen Elizabeth’s average fell from just over 1 hour 4 minutes in July 2024 to 44 minutes this July Good Hope improved slightly, from 1 hour 5 min-

Tributes paid to PC Faizaan Najeeb after fatal crash

Tribute s have be en paid t o PC Fa iza an Najeeb, 24, who died after being struck by a car while responding to a road crash

Northamptonshire Police said he was attending a singlevehicle incident on Station Road, Raunds, at 00:35 BST on 19 September when he was hit by a Volkswagen Polo and later died in hospital on Friday Bedfordshire Police, where PC Najeeb previously worked as a PCSO, said he would be "sorely missed" for his infectious cheerfulness A man in his 20s arrested at the crash scene has been released on bail Najeeb joined Bedfordshire Police in February 2021 with the Bedford Community Policing Team before moving to Northamptonshire Police in May 2022, serving in Wellingborough’s response team

Former colleagues in Bedford paid tribute, saying: "Those who knew him are devastated by his death and he will be sorely missed Faizaan would do anything for anyone, and though he was with us only a short time, his impact remains

A two-minute silence will be held this week at Wootton Hall headquarters, and his collar number P1967 has been retired in his memory

Northamptonshire Chief Constable Ivan Balhatchet said: "Words cannot capture the sadness when an officer dies in the line of duty Our deepest condolences go to his family and friends " Investigations into the collision are ongoing, with specialist family liaison officers supporting Najeeb’s family, and an internal health and safety review underway

Officer accused of unlawful data access

A Leicestershire Police officer, PC Victoria Czernek, has been accused of improperly accessing police systems while on duty

She is alleged to have viewed confidential information through force systems without a legitimate policing purpose or lawful authority The officer is also said to have breached professional standards relating to discreditable conduct, confidentiality, and compliance with orders and instructions

PC Victoria Czernek now faces a gross misconduct hearing over the allegations, which, if proven, would breach the force's professional standards

Free dance lessons aim to tackle antisocial behaviour

I N B R I E F WALSALL MAN CHARGED OVER GUN AND KNIFE ATTACK

A 40-year-old man has been charged with conspiracy to commit murder after an armed disturbance in Walsall Amar Khan was arrested by West Midlands Police in connection with the violent incident on Reedswood Lane Birchills, late on 31 July 2024 Four people were seriously injured when a vehicle was rammed and its occupants suffered gunshot and stab wounds Khan also faces charges of conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm possession of a firearm and possession of a knife He is scheduled to appear at Wolverhampton Magistrates’ Court at 10:00 BST Eight other men linked to the incident were convicted earlier and jailed in June

utes to 1 hour 2 minutes, whereas Heartlands’ time increased from 49 minutes to 1 hour 6 minutes

Bed availability is a key factor in ambulance handover delays Delays in moving patients from the ED reduce capacity and strain staff, so hospitals are focusing on avoiding unnecessary admissions and speeding up discharges

A dance school in Hednesford, Staffordshire, will offer free classes for children aged three to 14 using funding that supports crime and anti-social behaviour reduction Crystal Academy Aerial Arts & Dance will teach acrobatics, aerial hoop, dance, and theatre, a Cannock Chase Council spokesperson said “Engaging young people in activities like dance helps build confidence and skills while promoting positive behaviour and addressing the root causes of anti-social behaviour,” said Councillor David Williams A council spokesperson added that opening access to the performing arts will tackle social exclusion, support youth development, and create new opportunities for children and families across the district The programme is funded by the Staffordshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner’s community safety fund, which aims to encourage positive, community-focused activities

Thousands marched in Birmingham to support striking bin workers, protesting over pay and planned job downgrades in an industrial action ongoing for over six months A Birmingham City Council spokesperson said they were disappointed the dispute remains unresolved but will continue regular waste collections Chants of stand up fight back rang out as protesters walked from Unite offices on Jennens Road to the council house in Victoria Square Ronnie Mills, a five-year bin worker from Castle Bromwich, joined the demo after earning her HGV licence and starting truck driving just before the strikes "I expected to earn more, but the strikes have set us back," she said "Many are unhappy with the £8,000 pay cuts it s basic wages, and cutting them like this isn’t fair That's why we're here " She said strikers want to return to work, but not at a "drop-down wage " Industrial action began on 6 January, becoming an all-out strike on 11 March and was extended in September Unite said Grade 4 drivers could lose up to £8 000 a year with 170 of the 400-strong workforce affected by the council s job re-evaluation

COMMISSION TO REVIEW AI TECH HELD BACK BY RULES

Alastair Denniston, Professor of Regulatory Science and Innovation at the University of Birmingham, has been appointed Chair of the new UK National Commission on the Regulation of AI in Healthcare The Commission will accelerate the safe use of AI across the NHS shaping a regulatory framework that balances innovation with patient safety Bringing together experts from tech firms clinical research and patient advocacy it will advise the MHRA on rewriting AI healthcare regulations, set to be published next year, helping the UK lead in responsible AI healthcare oversight The Commission will begin reviewing AI technologies held back by regulatory uncertainty, including AI assistants for clinicians that reduce administrative tasks and improve patient care It will also clarify rules for AI tools in radiology pathology, and remote patient monitoring By providing this regulatory clarity, the NHS can access the latest AI tools faster, while attracting tech companies to invest in the UK, supporting the government’s Plan for Change to modernise the NHS

Reform edges towards majority as Labour support collapses

Reform UK is now within striking distance of forming a majority government i f an electio n were held to day, acco rding to Y o uGo v ’ s latest s eat-by-

seat poll

The multi-level regression and post-stratification survey (MRP), regarded as one of the most accurate predictors of Westminster

r e s u l t s , p r o j e c t s N i g e l Farage’s party could secure

3 1 1 M P s , a d r a m a t i c r i s e from its current five That w o u l d m a k e R e f o r m t h e largest party in a hung parliament and just 15 seats short of the 326 needed for an outright majority

Labour, which swept to v i c t o r y w i t h 4 1 1 s e a t s i n 2024, would now win only 144 seats, down from 178 in J

total Potential high-profile

casualties include Bridget Phillipson, John Healey, Pat McFadden, Wes Streeting and Yvette Cooper

T h e C o n s e r v a t i v e s , under Kemi Badenoch, are projected to fall to just 45 seats, down 76 The Liberal D e m o c r a t s w o u l d r i s e slightly to 78 MPs, the SNP would take 37, the Greens seven, and Plaid Cymru six T

Reform could govern with C

Scottish Labour MSP suspended for misconduct allegation

I N B R I E F MAHMOOD VOWS TO CHANGE MODERN

unable to form a majority even through a broad coalition with the Lib Dems,

Cymru

research indicates tactical voting could deny Farage victory in as many as 60 constituencies Most leftleaning voters whose first preference is not Labour s

Farage, while more than a third of Labour supporters

d t h e y would vote Conservative to keep Reform out

Ed Davey warns of ‘Farage’s Britain’ in fiery speech

Sir Ed Davey has issued a stark warning that Britain faces a choice between “the real change people crave ” or a Reform UK government that would turn the country into “Trump’s America”

T h e L i b e r a l D e m o c r a t

Bournemouth, sought to tie

N

F

D o n a l d T r u m p , a c c u s i n g him of plotting to dismantle the NHS, roll back gun laws

a n d u n d e r m i n e B r i t a i n ’ s freedoms

“ I m a g i n e l i v i n g i n t h e

T r u m p - i n s p i r e d c o u n t r y Farage wants us to become,”

o

Rights, while giving “tacit

s u p p o r t ” t o r a c i s m a n d misogyny

P

chaos under Farage, Davey said mental health problems

w o u l d b e d i s m i s s e d a s “made up ” and children with

told they had been

wrongly diagnosed”

America Don’t let it become

declared D

s h o o t i n g s W h e r e s o c i a l media barons poison young minds with impunity ” He accused Reform UK of paving the way for government to “trample on our basic rights and freedoms” by pledging to pull Britain

D a v e y t o l d d e l e g a t e s “Where there’s no NHS, so patients are hit with crippling insurance bills Where climate change is ignored as fracking scars our countryside Where schools must prepare children for mass

Conservative MP accused of spreading misinformation

C onserv ative MP, S hiv ani Raja, has faced criticism for “ spreading misinformation” after highlighting the use of the term “chest-feeding” on the NHS website

Raja, who won Leicester

E a s t f r o m L a b o u r i n l a s t y e a r ’ s g e n e r a l e l e c t i o n , s h a r e d a s c r e e n s h o t o n X/Twitter on 22 September from the NHS page titled “ C h e s t - f e e d i n g i f y o u ’ r e trans or non-binary”, part of the “having a baby if you ’ re LGBT” section

s n

British That isn’t who we are, ” he said

A Scott ish La bour MSP, Foysol Choudhury, has been suspended from the pa rty f oll ow in g an allegation of inappropria te conduct Choudhury, who has re pr esente d Lothian since 2021, will sit as an independent while Labour conducts an internal investigation A Labour spokesperson said the party “takes all complaints seriously,” adding that they are “fully investigated in line with our rules and procedures, and any appropriate a

Choudhury was “administratively suspended” in response to the allegation

Following Choudhury’s suspension, SNP

Labour leader Anas Sarwar to “urgently come clean on the reasons why yet another Labour MSP has been suspended

Rachael Hamilton also criticised the party She called for the party to be “ as transparent as possible about what has happened ”

Choudhury is chair of the Edinburgh and Lothians Regional Equality Council and o

Edinburgh Mela, the city’s annual multicultural festival, where he serves as vice-chair

Hundreds of schools could close by 2029

England faces a potential loss of 800 primary schools by the end of the decade as state school enrolments decline, research by the Education Policy Institute (EPI) warns Nationally, falling birth rates are the main driver, but in London the trend is worsened by families leaving the capital, o p t i n g f o r p r i v a t e s c h o o l s , o r m o v i n g

abroad Councils already struggling with shrinking pupil numbers could face more school closures and mergers, as funding is tied to enrolment

Jon Andrews, EPI’s head of analysis, said, “Schools with falling pupil numbers face increasing financial pressures, which can ultimately threaten their long-term viability This issue emerged first in London, where enrolment declines began earlier ” Primary school numbers peaked at 4 5 million in 2018-19 but are forecast to fall to 4 24 million by 2029 a drop equivalent to 800 single-form schools closing London has been hardest hit, with nine of the 10 local authorities seeing the biggest declines In some areas, 20% of pupils start-

recorded in the system, likely due to postBrexit migration or Covid disruptions

Starmer sparks questions over inheritance tax loopholes

SLAVERY LAWS

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has pledged to tighten modern slavery laws to stop migrants using what she described as “last-minute attempts to frustrate a removal”, after her own legal challenge was rejected by the Court of Appeal Mahmood had sought permission to appeal a High Court ruling that temporarily blocked the removal of an Eritrean asylum seeker to France under Labour s “one in one out” scheme The court had ruled the man should be given more time to present evidence for a trafficking claim But three senior judges dismissed her bid to overturn that decision In response Mahmood struck a defiant tone Last minute attempts to frustrate a removal are intolerable and I will fight them at every step she said She confirmed that the government had already amended its policy on 17 September and ordered officials to explore wider reforms “I will robustly defend the British public’s priorities in any court And I will do whatever it takes to secure our borders,” she declared

BURNHAM TO BECOME STARMER’S RIVAL?

Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has told The Telegraph that some MPs want him to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for Labour leadership Starmer’s poll ratings have been weak for weeks prompting speculation within parts of the party over his potential successor Until September Angela Rayner was widely considered the front-runner However her resignation as deputy leader and deputy prime minister over a financial scandal has cast doubt on her prospects, shifting attention toward Burnham Burnham enjoys long standing popularity within Labour A June Survation poll for LabourList placed him slightly ahead of Rayner as members’ preferred next leader He is admired for his plainspeaking, direct style a trait Starmer is often seen to lack Despite this, significant obstacles remain Most notably, only Labour MPs can stand for the party leadership, and Burnham is currently a mayor, not a member of Parliament, making any bid far from straightforward

MPS CALL FOR DEVOLUTION OF 16–19 EDUCATION

NHS Cheers to being biologically correct and politic

wrote

Raja had shared the screen-

readily available elsewhere on the site

Asia Voice has reached out to Shivani Raja for her c o m m e n t s

“ T o a l l t h e w o m e n breast-feeding at 4am, with no sleep, no recognition and n o c

issue

Keir Starmer’s decision to place a field in a trust has prompted scrutiny, as legal experts note it meant the property was excluded from his parents’ estate for inheritance tax purposes Starmer bought the seven-acre field behind his parents’ home in Oxted, Surrey, in 1996 for £20,000 and placed it in a trust, naming his parents as beneficiaries This gave

, which they reportedly ran as a donkey sanctuary, while legal ownership remained with Starmer When his mother Josephine died in 2015 and his father Rodney in 2018, the trust dissolved, returning full ownership of the land to Starmer He sold the property in 2022, along with a small

adjacent strip, for £320,000, giving

£295,000

Legal experts say the structure effectively shielded the land from inheritance tax Dan Neidle of Tax Policy Associates described it as a “tax-efficient structure,” noting the field belonged to his parents during their lives but would not be subject to inheritance tax on their deaths

Starmer has maintained that the trust was established purely for his parents’ benefit and that he had no

tages

A Downing Street spokesman said he engaged expert tax advice and confirmed there was “absolutely no underpayment of taxes ”

Devolving responsibility for 16–19 education to strategic authorities is essential to driving growth and improving young people s life chances, MPs have said In a new report, the Education Committee warns that 15 years of underfunding have left further education colleges struggling with staff recruitment, stagnant pay, and weaker status compared to schools To address this, MPs are calling for a statutory pay review body, fairer funding, and a new “student premium” to better support disadvantaged learners A central recommendation is to hand responsibility for 16–19 education and training to strategic authorities, a change they want written into the upcoming English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill The Committee also urges better coordination across local and regional bodies including the creation of a Skills Co-ordination Board to streamline engagement for employers Committee chair Helen Hayes said FE had been treated like Cinderella for too long and must finally be recognised as a driver of both national and local prosperity

Starmer frames Labour’s fight against Reform UK at conference

P r ime Minister Keir

Starmer used his keynote speech at Labour’s conference in Liverpool to rally his par ty and outline his vision for the country

At the conference, Starmer focused on challenging Reform UK, currently leading in polls, framing the contest as existential and warning of a choice between “renewal or decline,” likening it to rebuilding Britain after the war He singled out Nigel Farage, saying he “doesn’t believe in Britain,” while barely mentioning the Conservatives, joking, “The Tories remember them?”

Acknowledging Labour MPs’ unease over tighter migrant settlement rules, Starmer said the party must make “decisions that will not always be comfortable ”

Reflecting on New Labour, he admitted the party over-

relied on globalisation and immigration, recalling a 2015 meeting with a woman in Oldham who felt she had to prove she wasn’t racist, highlighting how Labour had “ patronised working people ”

Sir Keir Starmer’s speech at the Labour conference blended the personal and political, announcing a policy shift scrapping the 50% university target in

England Instead, twothirds of young people will aim for university or “gold standard apprenticeships,” supported by investment in technical colleges and skills training On patriotism, Starmer reaffirmed Labour as the “ party of national renewal,” declaring UK flags belong to all and rejecting far-right claims He praised ordinary citizens making a difference, including a care volunteer in Yorkshire, a 15-year-old girls’ football team founder, and a Telford food delivery volunteer

Addressing the economy, Starmer referenced the previous Budget’s £40bn tax rise, warned of tough decisions ahead, and rejected wealth taxes and excessive borrowing, pledging to protect working people from economic mismanagement

Delhi police probe death of British woman, 85

Police in India are investigating whether an 85-yearold British woman, initially thought to have died of natural causes, was murdered in her Delhi home

Pauline Crowther Ann, mother of Bollywood actor and model Daljit Sean Singh, was found dead on July 30 Bloodstains in her bedroom suggested she may have fallen, but a recent autopsy raises the possibility she was strangled Delhi police are seeking a second medical opinion, as the report was inconclusive

A police officer told The Telegraph that the postmortem was inconclusive but showed head injuries, prompting a request for a second opinion

Ann was last seen at 9:30pm on July 29 CCTV at the property covered only the entrance for the past two weeks A housemaid found her unconscious and alerted the family Police have recorded statements

from Singh and his sister, who said nothing unusual had occurred and they had no reason to suspect foul play Ann’s mobile, taken to the US by her daughter as a keepsake, is to be retrieved for examination, along with phones of other family members She had been married to Delhi real estate tycoon Mohinderjit Singh Ann frequently visited India, living on the ground floor of the Lutyens home while her son and family stayed upstairs A Foreign Office spokesman told The Telegraph: “We are supporting the family of a British national who has died in India and remain in contact with local authorities ”

Knifepoint raid forces elderly British couple to leave France

A Fr enc h court has se ntenced two burglars to 12 and 14 years in prison for robbing a British couple at knifepoint and leaving one unconscious

The attack, which took place in the bedroom of their home in Hautefage-laTour, a village about 100 miles southeast of Bordeaux, left the pensioners traumatised Fearing for their safety, Celia Bridges, 83, and Bernard Hayes, 76, have returned to Britain

Tarik El Malouani, 34, was sentenced to 14 years for armed robbery and assault, while Fouad Faize, 39, received 12 years, deemed “less aggressive ” Yslem Adib, 29, who claimed he stayed out of the bedroom, got 10 years, and Abderrahmane Gomri, 30, convicted of aiding the robbery, was sentenced to four years

After meeting the couple while doing plumbing work, Gomri suggested the burglary and helped scout the

property The burglars stole cash and jewellery worth several thousand euros, which Gomri later sold for €1,200 The attack on August 29, 2022, began when breaking glass and a neighbour’s barking woke the couple Bridges was confronted by two masked men, one striking her and trying to remove her necklace, while Hayes was held at knifepoint and slammed to the floor, losing consciousness

Post Office to offer prescription pickups and mail services

The Post Office will become a “one-stop shop” where customers can collect prescriptions as well as send letters and p arc el s, under p lans from chi ef executi ve Neil Brocklehurst

Brocklehurst, who took over last July, also called for “tailored business rates relief” for the 11,500-branch

network, arguing its face-toface services should be recognised and rewarded Brocklehurst said post offices make a unique social contribution but must do more to “regain public trust” after the Horizon scandal, which saw hundreds of postmasters wrongly convicted Tomorrow, the network will

Private talks highlight importance of UK-US relationship

R ecent ly, Kin g Charles and Queen Camilla hosted forme r Pr esiden t Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump for a state b anq uet, unde rscoring the enduring ties between the Un ited King dom an d the Unite d States

Ahead of the formal dinner, Trump stayed overnight at the castle, engaging in private discussions with King Charles The King reflected on the long-standing cooperation between the two nations, recalling how the UK and US fought together during the World Wars and emphasising the need for strong measures regarding Ukraine Sources indicate that Trump left the meeting more inclined to take decisive action, highlighting the influence of these discreet conversations

At the banquet, King Charles described the US and UK as “the closest of kin,” praising their shared

history, innovation, and economic collaboration He recalled the contrast between past and present US presidents, noting that while George Washington “famously vowed never to set foot on British soil,” Trump has visited twice in just two months Lightening the atmosphere, the King joked about Trump’s Scottish golf courses and even shared a humorous personal anecdote about a White House dinner with Tricia Nixon in the 1970s Trump, in turn, celebrated the “special” AngloAmerican bond, likening the two nations to “two notes in the same chord, each beautiful on their own, but really

meant to be played together ” He praised the royal couple, describing the Princess of Wales as “ so radiant” and Charles as “amazing ” Trump also reiterated his support for free speech, noting the British Empire’s historic role in establishing law, liberty, and individual rights globally The event also featured officials involved in sensitive diplomatic discussions, underscoring ongoing geopolitical concerns From private talks to trade deals and cultural diplomacy, the Windsor visit reinforced the enduring and multifaceted relationship between the UK and US As King Charles emphasised, following the first UKUS trade agreement, “ we can go even further,” signalling the continued growth of a partnership that has shaped both nations for centuries

respond to a government consultation on its future, which proposed options like mutualisation or a BBC-style charter moves Brocklehurst opposes The Post Office has also announced a “ new deal for postmasters,” promising £250m in extra income and cutting hundreds of head office jobs

British Parliament hosts international tribute to PM Modi’s leadership

The International Council of Jurist s hoste d the “International Celebration of t he 75th Birt hday of Pr im e Ministe r Na ren dra M odi Hon ouring a Visionary Leader of Peace, Prosperity & Global Unity” a t the Tha tcher Room , British Parliament, London The event saw dignitaries from aroun d the world come together to honor one of the world’s most respected leaders, Narendra Modi

75 – A Retrospective on the Politician and the Man,” praised Modi’s resilience, organisational acumen, and bold governance He traced Modi’s journey from his early years with the RSS to his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat and later as Prime Minister of India Gardiner highlighted his achievements in infrastructure, sanitation, economic reforms, renewable energy, and digital connectivity,

rise from humble beginnings to global statesman He praised initiatives like Digital India, grassroots democracy, women ’ s empowerment, and renewable energy, noting that future generations may remember Modi for peace, prosperity, and global unity

The event went beyond a birthday celebration, affirming Modi’s vision as a leader whose influence

The celebration was attended by ambassadors, MPs, Lords, retired judges, Bar leaders, social activists, and community representatives Participants held placards reading “A Visionary Statesman for a New India,” “Fearless Voice of Sovereign India,” “Global Leader, Not a Follower,” “Voice of 1 4 Billion Indians,” and “Building Bridges Across Nations,” reflecting their admiration for Prime Minister Modi’s leadership and global vision Barry Gardiner, MP and former British Minister, in his address titled “Modi at

and underscored his pivotal role in global climate initiatives like the International Solar Alliance and the Global Green Grids Initiative He noted, “India under Modi is being drawn together and interconnected as never before,” emphasising Modi’s stature as both a national and global statesman Delivering the keynote, Dr Adish C Aggarwala, President of the International Council of Jurists, hailed Prime Minister Modi as “the most charismatic and popular mass leader since India’s Independence,” tracing his

Chovis

Gaam Ujamni 2025 draws over 9,000 attendees

The a nnua l Chovis Gaa m Ujamni was celebrated with gr eat e nthusiasm at t he Shre e Kutch Lev a P ate l Com munity Ce nt re in Nor thol t on Sun day , 21st September 2025

This year ’ s “Festival of Culture” theme drew over 9,000 attendees from 24 villages Festivities began with a heartfelt Aarti at the Hanumanji and Ganesh mandirs, followed by a vibrant procession led by the

Shree Kutch Satsang Swaminarayan Temple Harrow Girls and Boys Pipe Band and Boys and Girls Lazium performers, marking the joyful start and lighting of the diva

The annual magazine launch and Expo featured over 40 community stalls and welcomed several esteemed guests Councillor Anjana Patel, Mayor of Harrow, presented Mavjibhai Dhanji Jadva Vekaria, President of SKLPC UK, with the International Conclave on Good Governance and Excellence in Leadership award on behalf of Mr Bob Blackman CBE Mavjibhai dedicated the honour to the community and the SKLPC Managing Committee Saints from Shree Swaminarayan Bhuj Mandir, Swami Nilkanth Charan Dasji and Swami Krushunswarup Dasji, delivered inspiring speeches supporting India Gardens Additional blessings were received from Mahant Swami of Bhuj Mandir and the Bhuj Samaj Mavjibhai also addressed attendees, urging donations for the India Gardens project and SKLPC UK’s new community home, while updating the community on progress Prominent guests included Samjibhai Dabasia (Jaysam), Jeetubhai Halai

spans borders Speakers highlighted his principle of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’

“the world is one family”, as a guiding philosophy for addressing global challenges like climate change, terrorism, pandemics, and inequality

Lord Rami Ranger wished Prime Minister Modi continued good health and enduring leadership The UK Parliament celebration highlighted Modi as a leader who upholds India’s civilisational values while promoting a united and harmonious global vision

(Prime Glaze), Kishor Vekaria (Studio V Architects), Suresh Patel (Mendick Waring), and the President Sevak of Sardardham Ahmedabad, who praised the samaj’s unity and ongoing initiatives

Additional dignitaries included Councillor Tariq Mahmood (Labour, Ealing Council), Shashtri Dhruvkumar Bhatt (Om Sanskardham Temple – Bhuj Kutch), Sanjay Kara (BAPS Swaminarayan Trustee), Gagjibhai Sutariya (President, Sardar Dham, Gujarat), Krupesh Hirani (London Assembly, Brent & Harrow), Councillors Chetna Halai, Heena Makwana, Kanti Rabadia, Sunita Hirani, Jayanti Patel, Harish & Dina Bhudia (Sewa UK), and Jaswantari Doshi (Navnat Vanik Association UK), who all praised the samaj’s work

The SKLPC Managing Committee showcased yearround activities at their stand, including Cricket Club, Saturday School, Adventures, Volleyball, Badminton, Football Tournaments, Vadil Samelan, and Manav Sewa Cultural highlights featured Saturday School and gaam performances, with Haribhaktos providing food and utensils and Stanmore Mandir serving breakfast to

over 700 volunteers Shree Swaminarayan Mandirs in Woolwich, East London, and Harrow, along with gaam members, served a community lunch to over 8,000 people, including puri, siro, khichri, dhal, and vegan options, highlighting India Gardens’ progress The meal was sponsored by SKLPC Managing Committee, Baladia Sarvodal Committee, the Vekaria Niyani family, Kamla and Meena Vekaria, Amaratben and Devjibhai Kanji Kerai, Shreeya, Krystal and Jenisha Vekaria, Kamla Kirit, Meena Arvind Vekaria, and Naran and Radha Hirani Fast-food stalls offered dabeli, bhajia, chips, and chilli paneer, prepared on-site by volunteers

The Kutch Exhibition showcased fashion through the years, Charka cotton wheel demonstrations, and techniques like bhandani, pit looming, and Ajrak Children enjoyed bouncy castles, biscuit decorating, face painting, wipeout, and VR experiences, taking home gardening kits and journals Ujamni convenors Kiranbhai Devraj Pindoria, Neeraben Mohan Hirani, Mavjibhai Dhanji Jadva Vekaria, and Vaishali Versani thanked all advisors, team leads, and 700 volunteers, especially the car park team for ensuring a smooth and safe event

Indian teen honoured with $100,000 Global Student Award

Adarsh Kumar, an 18-yearold innovator from Bihar, India, who grew up in poverty and left home at 14 to pursue better education, has won the Chegg org Global S tudent Prize 2025, a $100,000 award recognizing students who make a real impact on learning, peers, and society Chosen from nearly 1 1,000 nominees across 148 countries, Adarsh, a student at Jayshree Periwal International S cho ol, received the award in London, UK

Launched in 2021 by Chegg org with the Varkey Foundation, the Global Student Prize honours exceptional students driving change through innovation, leadership, and service Born in Champaran, Bihar, Adarsh Kumar overcame poverty, teaching himself coding and entrepreneurship on a laptop his mother bought At 13, he co-founded Mission Badlao, leading projects like building a school, 2,000+ Covid vacci-

nations, menstrual product distribution, and planting 3,000 trees At 14, he moved to Kota with 1,000 Rupees ($10) to pursue the IIT Joint Entrance, studying in libraries and connecting with mentors online This led to Skillzo (2023), mentoring 20,000+ underserved students

Sunny Varkey said, “Your journey shows how education, determination, and vision can turn challenges into opportunities and impact many lives ”

Navratri festivities light up the UK

Navratri celebrations are being marked with great grandeur across the UK, as the Indian diaspora comes together to honour the nights of devotion, dance, and music Communities are hosting vibrant Garba and Dandiya events, colourful processions, and cultural performances, keeping traditions alive while celebrating unity and heritage abroad.

UK–India FTA insights take centre stage at HEF forum

The Hindu Economic Forum (HEF) UK hosted a flagship event, “Policy to Prosperity”, on 25 September 2025 at the Harrow District Masonic Council Focused on opportunities under th e new U K-I ndi a F oreign Trade A greement (F TA ), th e evening bro ught together entrepreneurs, professionals, policymakers, and change makers to explore strategies for economic growth

The event opened with a welcome from HEF UK President Anil Puri, highlighting the Forum’s growing influence, while Sonia Patel hosted the program with elegance and professionalism

CEO K Shankar opened the proceedings

with HEF’s traditional tribute to Hindu ancestors, honouring their sacrifices and enduring spirit He highlighted HEF’s 2025 initiatives, showcasing the Forum’s commitment to economic upliftment through dharmic values and community-driven collaboration

Shankar highlighted that under Swami Vigyananand Ji’s leadership, HEF now operates in 13 countries with over 40 chapters, including five in the UK: London, Buckinghamshire, Glasgow, South London, and Edinburgh He stressed the Forum’s focus on economic empowerment, avoiding

politics and spirituality to ensure initiatives drive tangible growth, and proudly declared the year ’ s theme: “A Year of Accomplishments, A Future of Ambition ”

HEF UK’s 2025 milestones have showcased remarkable growth and engagement The year began with the launch of the Glasgow Chapter in January, attended by MPs, councillors, and entrepreneurs, followed by the introduction of HEF Launchpad in May, modeled on Shark Tank and Dragons’ Den where three of five pitched businesses secured investor backing July saw the launch of the South London Chapter, attracting over

120 businesses, while August featured the Annual WHEF 2025 Forum in Australia, drawing global participation Looking ahead, HEF UK will close the year with its final event on 4 December at the Blue Room, led by the Hindu Women Entrepreneurs Network (HWEN) and featuring a business Expo For 2026, plans include celebrating the Scotland Chapter anniversary with the launch of Edinburgh, marking the anniversary of HEF Launchpad, and announcing further initiatives Most ambitiously, preparations are underway to host the Global HEF Meeting in London in 2028, uniting all international

chapters for a landmark summit Rajesh, President of the London Chapter, highlighted HEF’s philosophy, describing the Forum as “not just an organisation, it is a movement, a bridge connecting knowledge, resources, and opportunities to build a prosperous future for all ” The evening’s highlight was a panel moderated by HEF UK Vice President Subhash Thakrar OBE, featuring Ash Verma, Siddhart Mukne, Mitul Ruparelia, Sachin Nandha, and Dr Gautam Sen, who unpacked the UK–India FTA with clarity From reducing tariffs to expanding market access, they offered practical strategies for businesses to capitalise on the landmark agreement Audience feedback praised the session as “enlightening, inspiring, and actionable,” with each speaker providing insights on trade facilitation, finance, entrepreneurship, and international relations

Feedback from members and attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the session as informative, practical, and inspiring, providing clarity on how businesses can navigate the evolving trade landscape and seize opportunities under the UK–India FTA

HEF’s success continues to be driven by connectivity, with thousands of members worldwide forging partnerships, facilitating business, and creating impact The Hindu Women Entrepreneurs Network (HWEN) announced its next anniversary event on 4 December at the Blue Room, featuring a business Expo for showcasing products and services

The Young Hindu Entrepreneurs Network (YHEN) also shared their vision of spreading dharmic values to the next generation, reinforcing HEF’s role in nurturing future leaders The evening concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks, recognising the dedication of the panellists, core team, and especially CEO K Shankar, whose leadership ensured the event’s resounding success

Spiritual purification and blessings during Navratri

Navratri - The nine-day Hindu festival celebrates the divine feminine (Shakti) and triumph of good over evil, particularly Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura The nine day festival involves worshipping the different forms of Goddess Durga and is observed with religious reflection, fasting, and traditional dances like Garba The festival represents the cosmic battle between positive and negative forces within individuals and the universe The nine nights are dedicated to Goddesses, including Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati The festival is a time for self-reflection, spiritual purification and seeking the Goddess’s blessings for strength, courage, and prosperity It is also a journey to connect with the unseen, divine energy

September 22, 2025 (Monday) is also the first day of fall season in the Northern Hemisphere, marked by the autumnal equinox The astronomical event signals the start of the fall season and occurs when the sun is directly above the equator

May Goddess Durga and Amba’s Divine and spiritual blessing bestows upon all esteemed readers of Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar all over the world and very dedicated and committed staff members and their families

Suresh and Bhavna Patel

Trump’s hypocrisy meets India’s resolve

On Russian oil the double standards are impossible to ignore India buys to keep its economy running and its people supplied with affordable fuel For this it is threatened with a 50 per cent tariff Europe bought far larger volumes for decades and faced no penalty Even today Europe continues importing Russian gas through pipelines and LNG cargoes Turkey keeps importing Russian oil and faced only a mild rebuke in the White House last week The difference in tone and action is stark

The pattern is obvious When Europe bought it was an economic necessity When Turkey buys it is tolerated When China buys at record levels it is called geopolitical reality Beijing is the single largest importer of Russian oil yet Trump does not threaten China with tariffs or sanctions No harsh statements No red lines The pressure falls only on India because India is seen as a partner that can be pushed rather than a rival to be challenged

This is why many in India hear the colonial echo Lectures when convenient Demands when useful Silence when inconvenient The message is blunt When Western allies act it is a strategy When rivals act it is unavoidable When India acts it is wrong Such hypocrisy does not go unnoticed It strips away the credibility of the so-called rules based order and exposes the gap between words and practice

India cannot bend to this logic Energy security is not a luxury It is the foundation of growth and stability for over a billion people India has diversified its imports across the United States, the Middle East Africa and Russia It pays transparently and within international law India is a democracy A sovereign nation It will decide how to secure the fuel its people need Trump must accept that truth or risk losing India’s trust and with it the goodwill of a world that already sees through the rhetoric

Dr Narsinhbhai Patel

Positive approach and ambition define Modi’s vision

“Recognising outstanding public service and leadership” of Mr Narendra Modi in the article written by Mr PK Laheri shows the qualities of Modi and why and how he is different from other world leaders (AV dated 27 Sept – 3 Oct 2025) PK Laheri was a very senior member of the administrative team, so his analysis of Narendra Modi is an important lesson for everyone who truly admires him

His life is dedicated to selfless service to Mother India Modi works seven days a week with one mission to make India a developed country as soon as possible The qualities described by PK Laheri are really noteworthy He has narrated each quality like positive approach, ambition, grounded and realistic, strong determination, relentless energy, sharp memory, innovative, and the most important is communication with everyone, clarity of ideas through both words and actions Every learner, irrespective of his or her subject or age, must try to grasp some of the qualities mentioned above to become a great citizen who, in turn, will make the country great

Mr Modi does not need any gifts or praise He is a selfmotivated person, much above the common man The greatest birthday gift to him will be to follow his principles, support his ideology, and make India one of the greatest nations He knows the potential threats from various countries and communities within the country Follow Modi’s advice, use products made in India, which will make the country prosperous and less dependent on the market-driven Western powers

Hitesh Hingu

Belgrave centre hosts afternoon Navratri festivities

At Le ice st er ’ s B el gra ve Neighb ourhood Ce ntr e, women in vibr an t sar ee s gathe re d t o ce leb ra te Navratri, the nine-day festival of music, da nce, a nd colour honouring the Hindu goddess Durga

Older participants welcomed the centre as a safe space to socialise, meet friends, and dance during the afternoon rather than in the evenings

For 84-year-old Sushila Tejura, who volunteered at the Rothley Street centre for 40 years, this Navratri was a chance to participate as a guest rather than a volunteer, surrounded by friends, family, and former staff

Her daughter, Rajul Tejura, told BBC News: “Seeing my mother’s face light up among the volunteers brings a smile to her and makes me feel emotional and overwhelmed It’s a memorable moment celebrating Navratri with her and all the people who help out here it’s a true moment of pride ”

76-year-old Jasu Mistry said she dreads the event s ending “I come here every day from 12:30 to six, looking forward to seeing my friends I live alone, and by

the 10th day, I get so sad when it’s over It’s helped my friend too, who lost her husband this year, ” she added Kalpana Patel from Humberstone said, “It’s wonderful to see the older ladies come out between 2pm and 5pm Navratri supports their mental wellbeing, gives them exercise, and helps prevent isolation Today’s colour is royal blue, and many are wearing traditional saris with jewellery and bangles ” Matthew Vaughan of Leicester City Council said the event provides a safe space for older women to enjoy the spiritual and social aspects of Navratri

Oxford marks historic first with Indian-named building

A ground-breaking ceremony marked the start of the Rat an Tat a B uilding in Oxf ord’ s Ra dcl iff e Observatory Q uar ter The new site will house t he Oxf ord India Ce ntr e f or Sust ainab le De vel opmen t, found ed a t Some rvill e College in 2013 Jan Royall, former Somerville College principal, called the Ratan Tata Building the final piece of the historic campus and “ a bold statement of our future,” praising its inclusive and ambitious vision

The Oxford India Centre for Sustainable

Development, the university’s largest funder of Indian scholars, will occupy the last available site in the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter

The Ratan Tata Building is Oxford’s first named after

Journalism

An investigative journalism award is being launched in memory of Andrew Norfolk, ‘The Times’ journalist who e xposed the nat ion al grooming gang scandal

The Andrew Norfolk Investigative Journalism Award, created by ‘The Times’ and the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ), aims to support and develop the next generation of investigative reporters, inspired by Norfolk’s lifelong commitment to uncovering the truth He died in May at 60, after a 24-year career at ‘The Times’

Norfolk, ‘The Times’ chief investigative reporter

an Indian Somerville principal Catherine Royle said it reflects the college’s creativity, ambition, and commitment to partnership and sustainability, strengthening Oxford’s ties with India

first exposed the national grooming gang scandal in 2011, highlighting authorities’ failure to protect victims

The award, open to NCTJ Gold Diploma hold-

Golu dolls of South India

Golu dolls, a vibrant Navratri tradition, embody South India’s rich heritage, fostering creativity, community, and unity These displays narrate stories, celebrating the triumph of good over evil I urge Prime Minister Modi to promote Golu, highlighting its role in preserving cultural values and passing traditions to future generations

Upcoming event

Jain Vishwa Bharati London is organising a women’s health talk on Sunday, 12 October, from 2 to 4 pm at 8 Elm Park Road, Pinner, HA5 3LA The session will be led by Dr Mahesh Maheshwari, Consultant Gynaecological Surgeon at Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and will cover general health, preventive care, and the importance of early checks The event is free and open to all women aged 16 and above

ers, offers a one-year paid investigative internship with ‘The Times’ It was announced at Norfolk’s memorial at St Bride’s Church, Fleet Street, where Editor Tony Gallagher, executive editor Jeremy Griffin, and legal director Pia Sarma paid tribute Rotherham whistleblower Jayne Senior also spoke, while Griffin called Norfolk’s work on investigations into boarding school abuse and a Qataricontrolled bank funding extremist-linked groups “ a testament to his legacy ”

The ceremony was attended by Vice-Chancellor Irene Tracey, Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami, and UK business adviser Varun Chandra Tata Group chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran said the new building honours Ratan Tata’s belief in education and strengthens Oxford-India scholarship

At the ceremony, Somerville principal Catherine Royle awarded Chandrasekaran a Foundation Fellowship, the college’s highest honour for philanthropy, in recognition of Tata Group’s support

Norfolk won the Paul Foot Award, the Orwell Prize, and was named Journalist of the Year at the 2014 British Journalism Awards While courageous journalists like Norfolk dedicated their careers to uncovering hidden abuse and systemic failures, successive governments often failed to respond decisively This lack of political will allowed serious issues to persist far longer than they should have, leaving vulnerable communities at risk and highlighting the vital role of investigative journalism in holding both institutions and authorities accountable

The conference season is now in full Reform UK

had an incredible party conference showcasing how far they have come in such a short period of time The Liberal Democrats, more of the s ame ol d slip pery rhetoric but no veri fiable content And this week the Labour Party gathered in Liverpool to kick off their conference, albeit under the cloud of a failing prime minister and a failing government

Normally a government that is elected with such a massive majority in parliament would be buzzing with zeal, optimism and unity

H o w e v e r , t h e l a t e s t p o l l shows that Starmer has now got the lowest approval rating of any Prime Minister, that’s ever since such polls

w e r e c o n d u c t e d H e n o w stands at a net approval rat-

i n g o f ( m i n u s ) - 6 6 %

Compare this with the Tory leader Kemi Badenoch who is on -47% Basically, she is 19% better off than Starmer

Of course, the figure that terrifies both is what Nigel Farage gets Farage is on19% In effect he is 47% better off than Starmer, and

2 8 % o f f b e t t e r t h a n Badenoch No matter how you stack it up, Farage and Reform are thrashing both Labour and the Tories

The Labour Par ty has

m a n a g e d t o s h o o t t h e mselves in the foot so many times in their first year in government that one could

s u r m i s e t h e y h a v e h a r d

Labour was elected They

votes Within days of getting the keys to Number 10, promises were broken as the new administration found o u t t h a t m a k i n g w i l d

p

s easy, but to put them in practice when in power is quite a different challenge Starmer is now known as the U-turn prime minister, and increasingly, the word

K A P I L’S K H I C H A D I

Comrades Divided

on the streets is that they

c o n s i d e r h i m , a n d t h e Labour Party, as liars The tag of being called a liar is very difficult to shift given v o t e r s o n l y c o m e t o t h a t conclusion when they have lost trust

Approval ratings for the p

tanked in almost every sin-

% now compared with Labour 22% and Tories 14% In my view once we get closer to the next general election, I

believe will go lower and could end up closer to 18% Reform needs to maintain its lead at 34%, but there is a chance that they may lose some supporters, and it may end up closer to 30% At 30% Reform cannot have an overall majority, and with that the ugly head of a coalit

biggest unanswered question being, can Reform stay disciplined till the next gene

i n t o power encourage a scramble to get to the top table at the cost of party disunity?

We also need to put into this mix the newly formed party by Jeremy Corbyn and Zara Sultana Whilst it does not have a name yet, they are nevertheless planning to host their very own party conference The jury is out since there is very little data or information to guide any s e n s i b l e j u d g e m e n t a s t o h o w e f f e c t i v e i t c a n b e

However, what we can say is that they will secure traditional Labour votes, and if they play the game correctly, and stop the power grab a n d i n t e r n a l s q u a b b l i n g that often accompanies the formation of a new party, t h e n t h e y c o u l d g r a b a s much as 15% of the vote

C o m r a d e s w h o s t o o d

s i d e b y s i d e f o r d e c a d e s , holding each other’s hands and singing the ‘The Red

destroying any chance of

Comrades are so divided in

s o c i a l i s m ( f o r s o m e i t ’ s Marxism!) that in their pursuit of power they are litera

apart

The far-left are hell bent

comfortable being on the side of Islamists These are the people who wanted to hide the grooming gang ’ s fiasco They want to introduce a corrupt definition of Islamophobia to ensure that all legitimate criticism of I

upon the Muslim vote and that of far-left union members

For Starmer the visit by President Trump was a wish c

d attention away from him

d the calls for his resignation The party conference gives him yet another opportunity to deflect attention away

want to present a particular face of Starmer, I am not

matter of a few weeks the dark clouds of an uncontrollable storm will gather, and I suspect his end will be

3 % want a change in leadership

T h e l o n g

t a y s i n power, the greater the damage to Labour British politics is broken The grassroots have lost confidence and trust in many of our

p o l i t i c i a n s W h i l s t c o mrades exhibit open hostility to each other, can Reform, the new kid on the block t a k e a d v a n t a g e ? A n d i s t h e r e a n y s c o p e f o r t h e Tories to get back their core vote in time for the next election?

‘Racially aggravated’ graffiti on Gandhi statue sparks community outrage

Continued from page 1

Such an act not only disrespects a global symbol of peace and nonviolence but also undermines the values he stood for

T h e I n d i a n H i g h

Commission in the UK condemned the act as a “violent attack on the idea of nonviolence” and stated that it has raised the matter with l o c a l a u t h o r i t i e s w h i l e working to restore the statue to its “original dignity ” This is not the first such incident in the UK; in 2014, a Gandhi statue in Leicester w a s s i m i l a r l y v a n d a l i s e d , and in recent years there

h a v e b e e n c a m p a i g n s i n s o m e a r e a s c a l l i n g f o r

removed

The latest act of defacement also comes amid rising anti-immigration sentiment i n B

saddened and strongly condemns the shameful act of vandalism of the statue of M a h a t m a G a n d h i a t T a v i s t o c k S q u a r e i n London This is not just vandalism, but a violent attack on the idea of nonviolence, three days before the international day of nonviolence, and on the legacy of the Mahatma ” “ @ H C I L o n d o n h a s

i n i s t e r K e i r

Starmer’s expected visit to I n d i a , a d d i n g a p o l i t i c a l l y sensitive dimension to the incident

G a n d h i J a y a n t i , c o m -

m e m o r a t e d a s t h e International Day of Non-

V i o l e n c e b y t h e U n i t e d

N a t i o n s , m a r k s t h e b i r t h

anniversary of the father of I n d i a a n d i s c e l e b r a t e d

a n n u a l l y o n O c t o b e r 2

Vandalising his statue just days before the occasion is a stark reminder of the disrespect and intolerance that persist against symbols of peace and unity

Community outraged as Gandhi statue defaced in London

E v e r y y e a r o n 2 n d

O c t o b e r , t h e H i g h

am Hindustani ” He won H i s v a l u e s w o n T h e y always will Don’t be angry Keep the faith ” It has been reported that the Metropolitan Police and Camden Council are investigating the incident of vandalism

History of Mahatma Gandhi statue A b r o n z e s t a t u e o f Mahatma Gandhi by Fredda B r i l l i a n

Tavistock Square, London, ahead of Gandhi’s centenary in 1969 Gandhi had studied l

College London from 1888 to 1891 before being called t

Temple T

Gandhi in his later years, seated in a contemplative lotus position, with a shawl over his shoulder and his

Three NHS staff have been se nte nced for fal sifying Covid vaccine records for more than 800 individuals to allow them to travel during lockdown

2 7 , earned up to £412,000 by issuing fake vaccination certificates while working as administrators at a vaccine

c e n t r e i n W

i e l d Shopping Centre, Stratford, east London T h e y f a b r i c a t e d 1 , 6 4 8

i c ’ s expense during the Covid crisis, abusing their trusted positions within the NHS Their actions allowed 847 people to bypass lockdown restrictions meant for vaccinated individuals

I s l a m , w h o j o i n e d t h e vaccine project in June 2021, s o l d h i s N H S l o g i n t o Ahmed for £1,000, with all records linked to him being false and no genuine vaccinations administered

J u d g e S a l l y - A n n H a l e s

r e c o r d s f o r 8 4 7 p e o p l e , charging £250 per certificate to bypass lockdown rules, S o u t h w a r k C r o w n C o u r t heard P r o s e c u t o r K a

said that between August 17 and December 13, 2021, the trio conspired to hack the N H S s y s t

g a i n , i n v

v i n g o t h e r s beyond them She highlighted the serious public health risk and wider harm caused during the pandemic, noting the vital role of the vaccine p r o g

g lives

All three admitted cons p i r a c y t o c o m m i t f r a u d Ahmed (Ilford) and Walters ( H a c k n e y ) w e r e j a i l e d f o r four years and four months, w h i l e I s l a m ( T o w e r Hamlets) received one year and seven months

C o m m i s s i o n o f I n d i a i n

L o n d o n c o m m e m o r a t e s

Gandhi Jayanti at Tavistock Square Garden with a solemn p r o g r a m m e T h e e v e n t i n c l u d e s f l o r a l t r i b u t e s t o

M a h a t m a G a n d h i ’ s s t a t u e ,

b r i e f s p e e c h e s , a n d t h e

s i n g i n g o f h i s f a v o u r i t e Bhajans, attended by community members and leaders This year, however, the celebrations were overshadowed by the recent vandalis a t i o n o f t h e s t a t u e I n response, the Indian High Commission issued a statem e n t o n X , s a y i n g : @ H C I L o n d o n i s d e e p l y

taken this up strongly with local authorities for immediate action, and our team is already on site, coordinati n g w i t h a u t h o r i t i e s t o restore the statue to its original dignity,” it added

Speaking to Asian Voice on behalf of India League, A lpesh Patel OBE s a i d , “ G a n d h i ’ s s t a t u e s

v

d t h e U K

i

B

l u e s I t i s w

h e y ’ r e here Those who vandalise the statue should leave the country They do not belong in Britain Whoever did this - their mother must weep they produc ed such cowa r d s G a n d h i m a d e t h e m angry because he stood up and did not beg or plead or bend the knee or bow down Anyone who holds the same values of whatever nationality or religion can say “I too

Portland stone plinth atop a square platform with four steps, it bears the inscrip-

1869–1948

Erected by the Mahatma

from the India League, it

Minister Harold

Commissioner Shanti Swaroop

Similarly, Bheem Kohli, the elderly man killed after being stamped on by a 15-year-old attacker; and the six-year-old girl shoved and having her hair pulled simply for being Indian made the nation uncomfortable, but there are many such stories in the public domain

In one such incident, Mandira’s Kitchen in Guildford faced immigration check where officials hopped fences, made accusations and what not, almost as if they came with the preconceived notion The restaurant’s owner wrote on Instagram, "I’ve never noticed the colour of my skin or that of my team But on Wednesday, I did "

Immigrants under attack again

Despite reporting the incident, she was not met by police, the British Transport Police (BTP) initially closed the investigation, cit-

While she appreciated the support she received from the community following the incident, she also saw dismissive comments online: “They were just doing their job,” “Why be upset if you have nothing to hide,” and “How many illegals did they find?”

The answer: none Every member of her team is legally employed, paying taxes, and fully compliant

While immigration checks are necessary, this visit went far beyond that Eleven officers arrived in convoy, separating staff, accusing them of dishonesty, and asking intrusive personal questions, one about an 11-year-old child, another about the last university assignment submitted, all based on a tip-off

The law requires reasonable grounds and proportionality What the team faced was neither "It was humiliation," she wrote "Guilty until proven innocent, simply because some of my team happen to be brown "

In another incident, Sophia Choudry was repeatedly called her the P-word on 7 September during a journey from Paddington to Maidenhead by teenagers She reported the abuse to police before the children got off at Hayes and Harlington in west London

A video Sophia posted on TikTok showing the incident has been viewed two million times She said she had not heard the racial slur directed at her in 25 years

Realising she was filming, the children tried to cover their faces, while some passengers criticised her for recording the abuse One passenger reportedly responded, “ so what?” after she explained what had happened

Sophia said she activated the passenger alarm to try to prevent the children from fleeing “I was shocked and angry about the children’s reaction, but the adults’ reactions are what broke me and brought me to tears,” she told Asian Voice

ing a “lack of identifiable suspects ” The case was only reopened after media frenzy, and an officer was assigned

But there has been a silver lining in all this mess, Sophia further shared, “I feel deeply torn by all the hatred that’s swirling lately It’s easy to let fear dominate our hearts, especially when racism is on the rise But from firsthand experience, I can say with my hand on my heart: the love and support I’ve received has vastly outweighed the negativity Strangers have messaged me, shown up for me, spoken words of kindness That’s what I keep reminding myself, the world is also full of good people, and because of that, I refuse to live in fear

“We are all witnessing the rise of extreme right-wing sentiment across the country Reform’s policies are fuelling division and fear, from targeting immigrants and asylum seekers to threatening our human rights obligations under the EU Politicians, including our own government, are now pandering to this shift out of fear of losing power

“These are scary times But if hatred is rising, so must our compassion, courage, and clarity ” Fears of a surveillance state

Amid a surge of racial hostility and attacks on immigrants, the UK government has unveiled the BritCard, a mandatory digital ID system announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer on 26 September 2025 All adults will be required to carry it by the end of this Parliament in 2029 Stored on smartphones, it is pitched as a tool to verify the right to work and access public services, with ministers claiming it could recoup £500 million annually from the £8 billion shadow economy

But critics warn it risks turning law-abiding migrants into suspects in their own country Most undocumented workers operate in cashbased, informal jobs, meaning the

prove “good citizenship” through volunteering, a spotless record, English proficiency, and economic contribution Why should one pay so much money, maintain a lifestyle good enough to stay and still always keep proving themselves worthy, while the government offers little concrete support to protect those at the heart of the storm?

A cybersecurity time bomb?

BritCard will do little to stop illegal labour while creating new hurdles for legally residing communities Already anxious, marginalised populations now face an added layer of surveillance and control

Public outrage has been swift A parliamentary petition opposing the cards skyrocketed past 2 5 million signatures in days, forcing a debate, while protesters gathered outside the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool, denouncing not just the BritCard but Starmer’s leadership

It is common knowledge that an international student pays £20,000–£25,000 in tuition fees, on top of which they have to show proof of sufficient funds to live here An ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) application cost £2,000, more for partner and family It’s a constant cycle of paying and striving

Yet, unless you have a job, pay taxes, pay NHS surcharges or are a dependent of someone who does, you cannot qualify for ILR So why target paid roles that are filled by migrants because local workers aren’t qualified?

On top of this, Labour plans to tighten immigration rules, demanding foreign nationals

Another factor is security Storing vast amounts of personal data in one place is a hacker’s dream We already have passports, driving licences, and other identity checks why create a single point

pot of personal data irresistible to cyber criminals and state-sponsored threat actors ” She warned that databases holding biometric data, nationality status, and millions of personal identifiers will become “ crown jewels” for attackers, with breaches carrying irreversible consequences

Ventura also stressed the human toll “This system is explicitly framed as immigration enforcement, which positions it as targeted surveillance rather than a universal benefit Legal immigrants and ethnic minorities will face constant scrutiny The

of failure?

Lisa Ventura MBE FCIIS, Chief Executive and Founder of the AI and Cy ber Security Association, told Asian Voice, “The government's mandatory digital ID scheme is a double-edged sword that needs serious scrutiny from the cyber security community While I understand the political pressures driving this decision, let’s be honest about what we ’ re creating here: a centralised honey-

Windrush scandal already showed us how such documentation demands can destroy lives”, she said She acknowledged potential benefits, such as device-based storage and strong encryption, but argued these will only work if vulnerable groups are consulted “Trust requires transparency and consent, not mandatory surveillance dressed up as modernisation,” she said

Hounslow nursery staff sentenced for baby abuse

A 22-y ea r-old nurser y wor ker , Roksana Lecka from Hounslow, west London, has been jailed for eight years for abusing 21 babies

She admitted seven counts of child cruelty and was convicted of 14 more after a trial, with her actions described as “gratuitous” and “sadistic” at two nurseries

The abuse came to light in June last year when she was sent home for pinching children at Riverside Nursery in Twickenham

Parents of Lecka’s victims described heartbreak, guilt, and distrust in impact statements at Kingston Crown Court

Judge Sarah Plaschkes KC condemned Lecka’s “ gratuitous violence,” detailing how she

pinched, slapped, punched, kicked, pulled ears and hair, toppled children into cots, and caused bruising and distress She often ensured staff were not

watching while quietly harming the children

Between October 2023 and June 2024, Lecka abused children at two nurseries, including pinching, kicking, pushing babies into cots, and covering their mouths

One count related to Little Munchkins in Hounslow; the rest to Riverside Nursery in Twickenham, now closed

Parents told the court her actions were “sickening” and that she preyed on helpless children

They expressed guilt for trusting her, with one noting, “We weren’t there to protect them ” The abuse caused lasting impact, including families relocating and relationship breakdowns

Woman sentenced for £87,000 social care fraud

A woman ha s be en sent en ce d after fraudulently claiming more than £87,000 in social care funding linked to her mother’s move to Pinner

Bina Gandhi, from Slough, obtained the money over 16 months by providing false information about her mother’s finances She received an 11month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, 150 hours of community service, and was ordered to pay £8,296 in court costs, in addition to repaying the full amount

Harrow Crown Court heard Gandhi applied for council-funded residential care for her mother, who moved to Pinner in December 2022 following a hospital stay She claimed her mother had only £7,000 in savings and that her Southend property was occupied by her brother, who acted as a live-in carer In reality, the property was empty, and her brother only visited occasionally to collect post Gandhi received £1,493 05 per week in state-funded social care during the 16-month period The fraud was uncovered

by Harrow Council’s Corporate Anti-Fraud Team during a routine review Investigators used credit checks, utility records, and information from Southend Council and neighbours to expose the deception

Cllr David Ashton, Cabinet Member for Finance and Highways, said, “Thanks to our officers, her lies were uncovered She has repaid £87,000 and received a strong sentence This sends a clear message: fraudsters will be caught, and the public purse will be protected ”

Safeena Husain’s revolution in girls’ education

The founder of Educate Girls, transforms girls’ education in India through mentorship and community-led programs, recently earning the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award for her impactful work

Safeena Husain, the founder of Educate Girls, is redefining what it means to fight for education in India From her own interrupted schooling in Delhi to leading one of the country’s most innovative nonprofit programs, Husain’s journey exemplif ies resilience, vision, and the transformative power of education

In 2023, she became the first Indian woman to receive the WISE Prize for Education, and in 2024 she was awarded an honorary doctorate from the London School of Economics, recognising her work in advancing gender equity through learning

Husain’s early experiences shaped her mission

Growing up, she faced societal pressures and limited opportunities, with marriage often presented as the only viable path for girls who faltered academically It was the guidance of her aunt that encouraged her to return to education, a decision that led her to the London School of Economics and ultimately transformed how she was perceived: from “ a failure” to a capable, intelligent young woman This personal journey became the blueprint for Educate Girls, a nonprofit dedicated to reaching out-of-school girls in India’s most underserved communities

The organisation’s flagship model, Team Balika, is rooted in mentorship and volunteerism Volunteers from the local community identify girls not in school, engage families, and create village-level support net-

works Husain emphasises that mindset change is at the heart of her work “The root cause of gender issues is mindset,” she explains Educating girls is only one part of the equation; it is equally important to educate the gatekeepers- the family, community leaders, and influencers- so that support for the girl’s education comes from within the community “Mera Gaon, Meri Samaj, Meri Samadhan,” she says: the model must be community-owned to succeed

Educate Girls also addresses the challenge of secondary education access Many girls drop out after grade eight due to distance, marriage pressures, or societal expectations The Pragati Second Chance program brings education to their doorstep through village-based learning camps, helping girls who have been out of school for years to catch up and even complete the 10th grade Beyond academics, the program instills life skills, digital literacy, and career awareness, preparing young women for employment, further education, or entrepreneurial

opportunities Tracking outcomes rigorously, the organisation ensures that 50–60% of participants progress into meaningful pathways

Husain has faced formidable challenges, particularly around changing entrenched social mindsets where girls are often seen as liabilities Overcoming such barriers requires patience and long-term engagement; Educate Girls commits to six-to-eight-year interventions in villages, shaping entire generations

Educate Girls became the first organization to receive the Ramon Magsaysay Award Husain reflects, “This recognition belongs to the grit and resilience of the girls themselves ” She recalls an 18year-old who resumed her education after a decadelong gap due to early marriage; her story was the first that came to Husain’s mind upon hearing the news

For young girls worldwide, Husain’s message is clear: believe in yourself, embrace resilience, and never give up, even when the odds seem insurmountable

Female students report sexual harassment at universities

One in three women studying at universities and colleges in England say they have been subjected to sexual harassment during their t ime as st ud ent s, wit h much of it taking place on or around campus, according to new data from the Office for Students (OfS)

The survey of more than 50,000 final-year undergraduates found that nearly one in five women also reported experiencing sexual assault or violence, most often at the hands of fellow students, but in some cases by staff Younger women, lesbian, gay or bisexual students, and those with disabilities were found to be at higher risk

Overall, 24% of students said they had faced sexual harassment, ranging from persistent unwanted atten-

tion to receiving explicit images But women were disproportionately affected, with 33% reporting harassment compared with 12% of men Similarly, 19% of women said they had been sexually assaulted, more than double the rate among men (7%)

The research also highlighted major shortcomings in how cases are handled Only 13% of harassment victims reported incidents to their university, and among those who did, fewer than half rated the process as satisfactory While students aged 31 and over were less likely to be victims of peer assaults, they were more likely to face

Using pageantry to amplify women’s voices

Subhasini Naicker

Azqa Sohil, 30, is a British Pakistani doctor and advocate from East London A Top 6 finalis t at Miss Universe Pakistan 2025 in the Maldives, she fi rst gained recognition on the UK pageant stage, winning Mis s Uni verse Great Britain’s 2024 ‘Not in Vain Award’ for bravely sharing her experience as a survivor of domestic violence

Beyond pageantry, Azqa is training as a GP with a focus on aesthetics and dermatology She founded @yoursistergram, an “Inspire Series” platform amplifying women ’ s voices, serves on the board of Adanna, fundraises for ASisterhood, and speaks in colleges to raise awareness of gender-based violence

Speaking to Asian Voice about becoming a Top 6 finalist for Miss Universe Pakistan 2025, Aqza said, “It was a last-minute decision to apply I had competed in Miss Universe Great Britain in 2024, where I first shared my story as a survivor of domestic abuse, and I thought that would be the start and end of my pageant journey A few months ago, I saw the call for Miss Universe Pakistan I’m originally from Pakistan, and the chance to represent my roots felt too meaningful to pass up, even though I had no expectations Round after round, the judges narrowed the field, and when they announced me in the top six, I burst into tears People think pageants are only about beauty, but the judges look beyond that, they value our stories, advocacy, presence, and passion Being chosen for

who I am and what I stand for was incredibly emotional and empowering, not just for me, but for other women too ”

Aqza credits her British Pakistani identity with shaping both her medical and pageant journeys “Growing up in the UK, I heard countless stories from my mother about life in her Pakistani village and the lessons her father taught her Those stories kept me close to my heritage even though I didn’t live there What inspired me most was the strength of Pakistani women When I faced domestic violence, I drew on that lineage of resilience and knew I had to speak out In the UK, I have the safety and family support to share my story, support many Pakistani and South Asian women don’t have I feel a responsibility to use my voice for those who cannot, hoping one of them might feel inspired ”

On the role of pageantry in advocacy, she added, “Pageantry gives you a platform to share your story, and that alone can be powerful So many women experience gender-

based or honour-based violence and abuse, statistics like one in three are staggering When you speak out, you show others they’re not alone That’s the most beautiful part for me While I advocate around domestic violence, I’ve met incredible women championing causes from sexual assault and workplace harassment to mental health, ADHD, infertility, and loss Every time one woman raises her voice, it gives others permission to do the same ” As a doctor training to become a GP while specialising in aesthetics and dermatology, Aqza navigates the intersections of science, health, and beauty “Everything I do comes from genuine passion and intention,” she said “I’ve loved science and biology since I was young, and becoming a doctor was always about helping people That purpose has carried me through even my darkest moments, knowing my work serves others ” Her interest in aesthetics and dermatology developed later “Four years ago, I had chickenpox, which severely affected my skin Doctors told me it might never recover, but through persistence with diet, lifestyle, sleep, exercise, supplements, and skincare, my skin not only healed but became better than before That experience showed me that beauty isn’t superficial, it’s about being the best version of yourself Caring for your body inside and out is what makes you truly beautiful, and that’s what fuels my work in aesthetics today ”

Thousands fewer women own or lead UK businesses

The number of businesses led by women has fallen further, despite government initiatives aimed at encouraging female entrepreneurship

abuse from staff, including lecturers and coaches Institutions regulated by the OfS now face new requirements to strengthen measures against harassment and sexual misconduct

An annual survey of 8,400 small and mediumsized enterprises (SMEs) employing fewer than 250 people found that taxation has overtaken energy prices and market competition as the biggest barrier to growth

According to the Department for Business and Trade, just 14% of SMEs are now led by women, down from 15% last year and 19% in 2021 This decline equates to tens of thousands fewer women owning or leading businesses across the UK The survey was conducted in several waves up to May 2025

Debbie Wosskow, a seri-

New laws clamp down on cyberflashing

New mea sur es a nnoun ce d today will better protect people, e specia lly teena ge girls, from receiving unwanted sexual images on social media, following shocking figures showing that one in three girls has received unsolicited pictures of male genitals

On Monday 29 September, Technology Secretary Liz Kendall outlined plans to impose stricter legal obligations on tech companies to prevent, not just respond to, the sharing of unsolicited nude

images The move will classify ‘cyberflashing’ as one of the most serious offences under the Online Safety Act

Under the new rules, companies could use automated systems to detect and block images before they reach users, strengthen moderation tools, or enforce stricter content policies Failure to act proactively could result in fines of up to 10% of global revenue and even the possibility of having their services blocked in the UK Disturbing statistics

underscore the need for action: 32% of girls aged 12–18 and 5% of boys report receiving unsolicited sexual images

This clampdown forms part of the government’s Plan for Change, which aims to halve Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) within ten years By targeting cyberflashing and other online abuse, the government hopes to create a safer digital environment where women and girls can participate fully online without fear

al entrepreneur and investor who co-chairs the government’s Invest in Women Taskforce, said the investment system remains illequipped to support femalefounded companies She added, “Some of the sectors most likely to have womenled businesses – like health, education and food – do not receive the same investor spotlight or buzz The reality is that female-led businesses deliver greater returns and are central to UK growth and future employment ” Tina McKenzie, policy chairwoman of the Federation of Small Businesses, called on the government to set a target of 50% of self-employed individuals being women by 2035 The survey also found that concerns over taxation as a barrier to growth rose sharply, with 61% of respondents citing it, an increase of 16 percentage points from previous years

About dreams, identity and belonging

Humour meets hardship as Mohit Mathur’s ‘Dial 1 for UK’ sheds light on the migrant experience with heart and honesty. Anusha Singh

For many in India, the UK repr esen ts opport unity, affluence, and a glamorous new lif e But for In dian write r a nd a ct or Moh it Mathur, arriving in London was just the beginning of a cha ll eng in g journe y of id ent ity, r esilience , and self-discovery

His debut play, ‘Dial 1 for UK’, draws on his own experiences to explore the hopes and harsh realities faced by first-generation immigrants Touring the UK this autumn, the play tells the story of Uday Kumar, a call centre worker and YouTube influencer whose dream of London life collides with racism, loneliness, and systemic hurdles- all told with humour, heart, and insight

Rooted in Mathur’s own experiences of moving from Mumbai to London, the play explores the gap between aspiration and reality “I first came to the UK in 2015, ” Mathur recalls “I was performing at the London Palladium in Beyond Bollywood, a turning point for me I loved it and thought, ‘I want to train properly as an actor ’” His journey to theatre was unconventional; he had studied engineering, even had employment offers at Infosys and with the Indian Air Force, before pursuing his passion for dance and eventually acting

The inspiration for ‘Dial 1 for UK’ came from real-life observations “My sister worked in a call centre in India, training in a British accent for about 15,000 rupees a month Later, while working with a Shakespeare company that specialises in working with individuals with autism, I noticed that the carers accompanying the autistic individuals were often from South Asian, Caribbean, or African backgrounds I realised there’s a story here; about migration, aspiration, and the realities of life abroad ” The character of Uday Kumar reflects the dreams of many young Indians who imagine life in the UK as a gate-

to a new culture “Growing up in India, we ’ re pushed to be as English as possible When I came to London, I thought I could just be Mike or Steve, but the world reminded me I would always be Rakesh Over time, I began embracing my identity ” Dial 1 for UK is about owning that identity while navigating the compromises and reali-

way to success and affluence

The play’s title is a clever nod to both the character’s initials and his new country Mathur explains, “The first line I wrote was: ‘Hello! This is Pushkar this side, how can I help you?’ But it felt too long and clunky ”

So he played with the initials of the character Uday Kumar, ‘UK’, offering the perfect playful link to the United Kingdom and captured the character’s pride and connection to his new home The opening line became: “Good morning, my name is Uday Kumar or you can call me UK, like your country ” Mathur draws heavily on his personal experiences, blending humour and heart with social commentary One memory from 2015 stands out when someone called him a racial slur, the P-word “Back then, I casually thought, ‘You’ve got the country wrong, I’m from India,’” he recalls “Over the years, my perspective changed What once felt like a minor insult became deeply personal ” This evolution informs the play’s exploration of identity, belonging, and the complexities of immigration

The play also examines the challenges of adjusting

ties of life as a first-generation immigrant

Talking about South Asian representation in the arts, he said, “In India the opportunities were limited and London is better, but there are still "not enough" producers taking risks or making work for South Asian artists ”

His advice for young South Asians aiming to make their mark? “Take charge of your career and never take no for an answer If no one is writing for you, make your own show Your voice matters ” Mathur’s own example underscores this: after being told his play would take two years to produce, he contacted i80 venues, secured 15 agreements, and launched his UK tour

'Dial 1 for the UK' is more than a comedy about migration; it’s a story of resilience, identity, and the dreams that drive us

Through humour, heart, and authenticity, Mohit Mathur aims to illuminate the realities behind the dream of moving West, offering audiences a chance to understand the immigrant experience in the UK with empathy and insight

For tour dates and more information, visit www mohitmathur co uk

British Museum to rival New York’s Met Gala

The British Museum is set to host its first high-profile gala next month, aiming to rival New York’s legendary Met Gala, where extravagant fashion meets recordbreaking fundraising

The inaugural British Museum Ball, scheduled for October 18 during London’s Frieze art fair, is expected to attract elite figures from entertainment, business, politics,

and sport

Inspired by the Met Galamodel, the British Museum hopes its ball will become a highlight of London’s social calendar while supporting the museum ’ s ambitious redevelopment plans The museum is collaborating with top luxury brands to create a glamorous and memorable evening While ticket prices remain undis-

Kiran Desai returns to Booker Prize shortlist with ambitious new novel

B ooker priz e-winn ing aut hor Kira n Desai has returned to the prestigious literary award shortlist with he r la te st nove l, ‘The Lon elin ess of Sonia an d Sunny’, described by judges as a “vast and immersive” exploration of two young India ns na vigat ing l ife in America

The 53-year-old Delhiborn author, who won the

in 2006 for ‘The

Loss’, is one of six writers from around the world shortlisted for the 2025 prize At 667 pages, Desai’s newest work is the longest on this year ’ s list

Judges praised it as “ an intimate and expansive epic about two people finding a pathway to love and each other Rich in meditations on class, race, and nationhood, this book has it all ”

The novel took nearly 20 years to complete If Desai wins, she will become only the fifth author to claim the Booker twice, and it would mark an unprecedented clean sweep for India in 2025, following Banu Mushtaq and translator Deepa Bhasthi’s International Booker Prize win earlier this year for ‘Heart Lamp’

Desai said of her work, “I wanted to write a story about love and loneliness in the modern world, a pre-

sent-day romance with an old-fashioned beauty As I wrote across geographies and generations, I realised I could explore loneliness in a broader sense – not just romantic, but the divides of class and race, the distrust between nations, and the vanishing of a past world, all of which can be seen as forms of loneliness ”

Born and raised in New Delhi, Desai moved to England at 15 and later settled in the US Literary acclaim runs in her family: her mother, Anita Desai, was shortlisted for the Booker three times

Other shortlisted works include Susan Choi’s ‘Flashlight’, Katie Kitamura’s ‘Audition’, Ben Markovits’s ‘The Rest of Our Lives’, David Szalay’s ‘Flesh’, and Andrew Miller’s ‘The Land in Winter’

The 2025 Booker Prize winner will be announced on November 10 at Old Billingsgate, London, receiving £50,000, while each shortlisted author will receive £2,500 and a specially bound edition of their book

Ambika Mod explores ambition and addiction in new play

The Royal Court Theatre has unveiled the complete cast for its highly anticipated wor ld pre miere , Por n Play

Joining previously announced Ambika Mod is Olivier Award-winning actor Will Close, fresh from his acclaimed performance in Dear England The production, a co-production with SISTER, promises a darkly humorous yet unsettling exploration of the double life of a high-achieving academic The creative team has also been strengthened by the involvement of award-winning choreographer Wayne McGregor

Despite its provocative title, Porn Play is far more than a shock-fest The story follows Ani, a brilliant academic whose career is marked by awards, lectures, and accolades Beneath her polished public image, however, Ani struggles with a secret addiction to violent pornography a compulsion that threatens to unrav-

closed, the museum is seeking high-level patronage to support its £1 billion redevelopment, which includes modernised visitor facilities and a “ complete reimagining” of its Western Range galleries With state funding cuts over the past 15 years, the museum is increasingly relying on creative initiatives to finance its projects

el her professional success and personal relationships

The play has been described as a deeply honest character study, tackling complex psychological terrain with nuance and intensity

Writer Sophia ChetinLeuner makes her Royal Court debut with this production Known for her fearless exploration of intricate psychological themes, Chetin-Leuner delivers a story that is both unsettling and thought-provoking

The ensemble cast is formidable Lizzy Connolly, whose stage credits include the Donmar Warehouse and

the Old Vic, joins Asif Khan, a Royal Court regular and familiar from ITV’s Mr Bates vs The Post Office This tight four-hander promises a focused and intense theatrical experience Ambika Mod, riding a wave of success following One Day and

This Is Going to Hurt, returns to the stage, while Will Close brings the weight of his Olivier-winning performance in Dear England to the production With its combination of sharp writing, expert direction, and a stellar cast, Porn Play is shaping up to be a daring addition to the Royal Court’s repertoire, offering audiences a challenging yet compelling look at ambition, addiction, and the hidden struggles behind a perfect facade

Esh Alladi leads new Royal Court play

The Roy al Court Theatre and Playful Prod uct ion s ha ve confirmed that Esh Alladi will join the cast of ‘The Un be lieve rs ’ , a powerful new play b y N ick Pay ne ex plor in g fa mily, memory and hope Directed by Marianne Elliott and designed by Bunny Christie,

the production will see Alladi take to the stage a l o n g s i d e Nicola Walker, who plays a mother grappling with the d i s a p p e a r a n c e of her son

A l l a d i , whose stage and screen work has earned wide acclaim, will appear with a

stellar ensemble including Paul Higgins (The Thick of It, Line of Duty), Ella Lily Hyland (Black Doves, Towards Zero), Harry Kershaw, Martin Marquez, Lucy Thackeray, Alby Baldwin, and Isabel Adomakoh Young The Unbelievers runs at the Royal Court’s Jerwood Theatre Downstairs from Friday 10 October to Saturday 29 November 2025

Sunetra Senior

Lovina w as b orn a nd raised in Mumbai and is the heart behind two of the UK’s fastest growing SouthAsian n etwor ks: In dian Professionals in London & UK (IPLUK) a nd In dian Women in London & UK (IWLUK) What began as a sim ple cof f ee ca tch-up when she first moved from Dubai to London “feeling al one, adjusting to a new culture and daunting wea ther ” has now become a thriving community of over 100,000+ membe rs W it h ove r 4 2,0 00+ Indian women in IWLUK, founded three years ago), an d a t hriving 63,0 00+ mem be rs in IPLUK (la unched just two y ear s ago f or me n & wom en), the se com munities ha ve quickly become a vibrant

commitment to emotional support is what makes it worthwhile,” said Lovina “You also need to be very organised and think on your feet It can be stressful, but seeing the impact on people makes it truly rewarding I try to create a variety of events so there’s something for everyone it’s about fostering closeness and getting to know

hub f or con ne ct ion a nd growth From coffee mornings and brunches to grand fe stive ce le bra tions l ike Diwali, Holi, and Christmas and even boat parties on the HMS We llin gton they celebrate life’s meaningful moments together ***

In just a few years, IWLUK has become a trusted space where women can “share their queries, find support, and build lasting friendships”, while IPLUK has evolved into a powerful vocational network, “creating opportunities for career growth, collaboration, and a deeper sense of community” Lovina’s journey began at Boxpark in Wembley on March 2022, when just 30 women attended the very first meetup From there, the network rapidly expanded, establishing a strong presence through 30+ locationbased WhatsApp groups, Instagram and Facebook communities, alongside local meetups across East, West, North, and South London, Midlands, Berkshire, Bristol & Manchester Today, the community thrives across the nation, with vibrant sub-groups including a fitness club, book club, mum ’ s club, travel club, business and career networking forums which provide members the opportunity to care for one another as well as connect and grow

Lovina’s work has been recognised by the BBC, and her leadership is as much about logistics as it is about creating strong community: “It takes long hours and a lot of hard work, but the

people ” Communication and the soft power of bonding then is highlighted as valuable: “ coming to the UK as a newcomer, I never imagined I’d find not just a community but such a strong network of friends and entrepreneurial connection the country is now my home,” she added Indeed, every member has been added with due diligence, with profiles verified across social media handles, ensuring a safe and trusted space

“Coming to the UK as a newcomer, I never imagined I’d find not just community but such a strong network of friends"

“When I think of London, certain corners hold a very special place in my heart,” Lovina reflected “Wembley Park will always be close to me it’s where my journey began In Notting Hill, I unexpectedly wandered into a bookstore straight out of one of my favourite films which was magical Covent Garden was unforgettable, with my first Charlie Chaplin street performance, and St James’ Park is memorable as the first park I explored with my family Each place tells a story of discovery and joy ” The platform serves as a closely helpful space where members can openly share

Divorce and South Asian realities

London has earned a global reputati on as th e wo rld’s di vo rce capi tal, attrac ting c om plex, hi gh- valu e cas es from across the globe One of the key reasons for this is the city’s generous approach to dividing marital assets

Since 2000, English law has generally assumed a 50:50 split of wealth upon divorce, even when one spouse was the primary earner This starting point, combined with the courts’ consideration of lifestyle and maintenance, makes London particularly appealing to couples with significant assets or international connections

breaks down

Dowries and dowry jewellery, often significant, add another layer of complexity, as they may be difficult or impossible to reclaim during legal proceedings “To help courts, arbitrators, or mediators understand the cultural and financial significance, it may be necessary to bring in experts For instance, I have sometimes consulted specialists who explain the concept of dowry, its value, purpose, and how it should be treated legally, so that the tribunal appreciates the cultural values ”

their challenges and receive answers drawn from personal experiences Lovina recounted: “there have been times when someone posted that their loved ones were in hospital, alone, and local members stepped in with food and assistance

Our Q&A section has become a vital resource people turn to it for tax and mortgage advice, visa queries, job references, tutors for their children, and much more ” These efforts reflect how empathy combined with practical support can foster confidence as a whole:

“I have developed a deep sense of purpose and resilience along the way True, unstoppable power comes from what no one can take from you: your mindset, your character, and the essence of who you are ” Looking ahead, Lovina hopes to share more indepth stories of her members’ successes, with a focus on their life journeys and entrepreneurial achievements: “I envision it as a platform similar to ‘Humans of New York,’ highlighting real experiences, challenges, and accomplishments ” The leader credited her family and incredible team: “ none of this would have been possible without Prableen Rupra, Disha Rawat, and Nishi Gill” Lovina's journey proves that community is more than numbers it emerges as a crucial lifeline of trust She concluded: “through our platforms, I’ve seen countless members find accommodation, business partners, job references and lifelong friendships But more than anything, it turns strangers into friends, ideas into possibilities, and transforms challenges into celebration: #TogetherWeGrow ” W: https://indiansinlondonuk com/ I:https://www instagram c om/indianprofessionalslondonuk/ https://www instagram co m/indianwomenlondonuk/

David Lis ter, Seni or Partner at Vardags, and an Overseas Citi zen o f I ndia himself , explains that this regime provides genuine opportunities for fair settlement or robust court action if necessary While it is not possible simply to appear in England and claim a divorce, individuals with an appropriate connection to the country can access the courts and have their cases determined

For sophisticated clients, particularly those with substantial or inherited wealth, prenuptial agreements are often used These agreements act as an “instruction manual,” allowing the parties to outline asset division in advance, prior to the marriage when the couple are happy and can take into account on a consensual basis any potential cultural issues

“It’s a classic case of ‘ prevention is better than cure ’” , David said Family ties and cultural expectations

For South Asian families, divorce is rarely just a financial matter Extended families often become involved even before the marriage begins Parents and relatives play central roles in arranging matches, supporting the union emotionally, and investing considerable resources, whether through hosting elaborate weddings, contributing financially, or providing guidance When a marriage ends, these relationships can be abruptly disrupted, affecting multiple generations

M u l t i - g e n e r a t i o n a l households are common in South Asian families, meaning that childcare, day-today support, and living arrangements can be deeply affected when a marriage

Lister points out that tracing assets located in England and particularly overseas (for example in India) presents further challenges, because courts in some overseas jurisdictions can be slow or reluctant to enforce foreign orders

Constructive vs contentious divorces

Lister emphasises that outcomes vary widely Some couples, particularly highly educated or internationally minded individuals, approach divorce pragmatically, seeking constructive resolutions that prioritise the well-being of children and family continuity

Others can become entrenched in conflict, often when one party refuses to cooperate “Often, the chal-

lenge lies with strong-willed individuals, usually husbands, who are unwilling to cooperate If the assets are in England, they can generally be accessed, but overseas assets in certain jurisdictions pose greater difficulties

Resolving these matters becomes more time-consuming, complex, and costly due to the international footprint of the parties”, David said

“When dealing with an obstructive party, it becomes necessary to employ robust tactics through the courts in London, and in cooperation with lawyers in India (with whom we work regularly) or other relevant jurisdictions”, Lister added “There are several methods of division; negotiation, mediation, or arbitration can help resolve disputes, with litigation as a last resort The goal is always to find a fair and workable solution rather than escalate conflict unnecessarily ”

When marriages break, families fracture too

Beyondthe legal and financial complexities, divorce carries a profound emotional and cultural impact, especially in South Asian communities

Parents, who may have invested decades in nurturing not only their children but the marriage itself, can experience feelings of loss, guilt, and isolation

Elderly parents may suddenly find themselves disconnected from grandchildren or family rituals, while extended families must navigate the fracturing of networks once taken for granted Social stigma, questions from relatives, and perceived dishonour can intensify the emotional burden

Community awareness that divorce is not a failure, culturally sensitive counselling, and maintaining

traditions or family involvement where possible can help ease the psychological strain Encouraging parents to respect boundaries, offering support without taking on the responsibility of resolving the marriage, allows them to remain engaged without becoming overwhelmed Even in disrupted households, preserving connections and rituals can help families adapt to the new reality without severing bonds entirely While divorce inevitably brings disruption and grief, especially for parents and extended families, careful preparation, constructive negotiation, and cultural awareness can help preserve both fairness and family connections

Royal Mail faces backlash over misdelivered parcel

A wom an ha s crit icised

Royal Mail after a parcel she sent from Birmingham to London was dumped in a re cy cling b in and t ake n b ef ore coll ection Esly n Daley, 67, had sent the package for her brother to take to their family in Jamaica, but Post O ff ice st af f l ate r showed him a photo of it in the bin

Royal Mail apologised,

saying placing parcels in bins is “ never ” company policy and the worker involved had been spoken to, though Ms Daley has not received a direct apology She called the incident “ shocking, upsetting, and stressful ” The £100 parcel, containing period underwear for her granddaughter and supplements for her 99year-old uncle, was sent sec-

ond class, limiting compensation to £20 MP Al Carns said Royal Mail had “failed” and should offer proper compensation

Consumer expert Jane Hawkes called misdelivery complaints “unacceptable,” while ex-Royal Mail employee Mark Redmond said online tracking and leaving parcels in bins or porches confuses older customers

Climate changes, but this time it’s us

Aryaman Shukla

“Hasn’t the climate always changed?” Climate scientists he ar t hat al l the t ime

C limat e scien tist Kat e Marvel’s reply is equal parts d ry humour an d science:

“Ye s we know tha t because we were the ones who figured it out ”

Take the last glacial maximum, about 21,000 years ago The Northern Hemisphere was buried under ice If you were in New York, you would’ve been under hundreds of meters of it Global temperatures were five or six degrees colder than today

The cause wasn’t mysterious Earth doesn’t orbit the Sun in a fixed way Other planets tug at us, shifting the path from circular to elliptical, tilting the axis more steeply or less, and wobbling the spin so our “North Star” changes every few thousand years These Milankovitch cycles redistribute sunlight across the planet Less summer sun at northern latitudes means glaciers grow; more sun, they retreat The cycles can explain the ice ages

But here’s the clincher If you plug in today’s orbital changes into a climate model, you don’t get warming You get flat lines The steep climb in temperatures we ’ ve seen since the Industrial Revolution can’t be chalked up to planetary mechanics

Volcanoes tell an exactly opposite story from what one believes Their eruptions can reshape societies, sometimes even rewrite

Aryaman Shukla

myth In 536 CE, a colossal eruption dimmed the Sun and plunged global temperatures by two to three degrees Crops failed across Scandinavia In the darkness, the Vikings spun the myth of Ragnarök the world ending when the Sun goes out and endless winter sets in In 43 BCE, a huge Alaskan eruption disrupted the Nile floods two years in a row Famine and unrest followed, fuelling the political fire that ultimately toppled Cleopatra and the Ptolemaic dynasty In 1815, Tambora erupted in Indonesia, scattering so much ash and gas into the atmosphere that the following year was remembered as the “Year Without a Summer ” Skies stayed grey, crops failed in the northern hemisphere, and in a lakeside villa in Geneva, a teenage Mary Shelley, trapped indoors with Lord Byron, wrote Frankenstein Another guest drafted the prototype for a bloodsucking aristocrat the ancestor of Dracula

Single, powerful, shortterm climate events can dim the Sun, trigger social collapses, and inspire myths

that echo through time The cooling fades in a year or two They leave cultural scars, not century-long warming trends

So what explains the relentless climb of global temperature in our time?

Scientists put the puzzle together by testing every factor that can heat or cool the planet Four factors push the thermostat up Two nudge it down

The warming forces are familiar The Greenhouse gases from burning coal, oil, and gas are the biggest driver by far Carbon dioxide is produced when forests decay, die, or are cut down

Industrial processes such as cement, steel, and plastic manufacture emit carbon dioxide, in addition to the carbon dioxide generated by the energy used in the manufacturing process Finally, agriculture is a culprit with methane from cows and rice paddies, and nitrous oxide from fertilizer

Two forces push the other way Aerosols are tiny particles from pollution, ship exhaust, and fires They block sunlight directly and also seed clouds that reflect it The albedo effect occurs when the darker surface is replaced by a shinier ground that reflects more sunlight, creating a slight cooling, such as deforestation

Combine the two factors The warming trend is us, masked a little by aerosols, but it's undeniable that’s the fingerprint of human influence

It’s a sobering picture NASA’s models show that

Ketan Dattani

human choices don’t just cause warming they can stop it

Net zero means tackling emissions from every primary source Fossil fuels have to shrink fast Agriculture needs reform to curb methane and nitrous oxide emissions cement and steel demand new chemistry Forests, mangroves, and soils need protection because they absorb carbon naturally And carbon removal technologies direct air capture, enhanced rock weathering, ocean uptake will likely play a role, but only as clean-up for the “hard-to-abate” leftovers They aren’t silver bullets They’re silver dustpans

We’ve run this experiment before, unintentionally, when the pandemic shut the world down in 2020, emissions fell about seven percent That’s roughly the pace we need to sustain every year this decade to keep warming close to 1 5°C

It won’t be easy, but it’s not impossible The benefits show up immediately Fossil fuels don’t just release greenhouse gases They release aerosols that kill More than one in ten global deaths is linked to air pollution Cutting fossil fuels could save three to four million lives every year

Earth has always shifted between cold ages and warm ones Yes, volcanoes have dimmed the Sun and shaken societies The steady warming of the past century is mainly due to us And as per NASA, the ending is still up to us

Miliband dismisses ‘doomsters’ as he defends net zero at Climate Week

B ritain’s en ergy secr etar y, Ed Milib and, has r ejected claims of a global re treat from climate action, insisting the economic case for net zero is strong enough to w it hst and scept icism a t home and abroad

Speaking to Reuters from New York Climate Week, Miliband countered fears of waning momentum as US President Donald Trump advances an agenda of expanding fossil fuels, rolling back pollution rules and cutting climate funding

“There’s lots of talk about countries stepping back from climate action and clean energy, but my

message is, don’t believe the doomsters,” he said “When you look at what’s really happening, it’s actually a very, very different story ”

He pointed to fresh data showing clean energy investment hit more than $2 trillion in 2024, double that of fossil fuels, and noted the upbeat mood among delegates

Trump, who last week branded wind power an “ expensive joke” during a visit to the UK, urged Britain to exploit its remaining oil and gas reserves Miliband responded that while nations were free to act in their own interests, many

Climate

outside the US see climate goals as the route to cheaper, more secure energy

An International Renewable Energy Agency report in July found most

new renewable projects now generate electricity more cheaply than fossil fuels At home, Miliband faces opposition from Nigel Farage’s Reform UK, which leads in opinion polls and has pledged to scrap net zero targets, axe subsidies, and expand drilling Miliband, however, said Reform was out of step with public opinion “People want action on the environment They want it in a way that helps tackle the cost of living crisis We’re happy to have that fight about what Britain’s future looks like, and I believe it’s a fight we can win ”

change could cost Britons

£5,000 each year

Extreme weather linked to climate change could wipe out around £5,000 a year from every Briton’s income by the end of the century, according to new research f rom the Unive rsity of Cambridge In a high-emissions scenario where little is done to adapt, the

PLOS Climate, modelled the

cumulative impact of flooding, droughts and other climate shocks across 174 countries between 2015 and 2100 Kamiar Mohaddes, associate professor of economics at Cambridge, said the estimates were “ super conservative”, since they exclude

Whenwe talk about climate change and protecting our environment, the voices of minority communities are too often missing The people shaping policies, leading organisations, or sitting on influential panels don’t always reflect the communities most affected by these issues

As a South Asian professional in environmental health, I see this first-hand Our voices are too often absent from the room and that needs to change

The environmental and sustainability sector is one of the least diverse industries in the UK (right up there with farming) Too many young South Asians either don’t know these careers exist or feel shut out of them Why?

- There aren’t enough role models in senior positions to show that these careers are possible

- Opportunities often come through networks that aren’t accessible to everyone

- Unconscious bias still influences recruitment and career progression

The result? Talented individuals are being overlooked, and the sector misses out on fresh ideas and perspectives

It’s not just about careers Conversations around climate and sustainability often fail to reflect everyone ’ s experiences, leaving out voices that need to be heard This disconnect distracts from the real work we need to do and makes minority communities feel alienated from sustainability discussions

But here’s the good news: recognising the problem is the first step toward change And there are concrete ways South Asians can play a stronger role in shaping a greener future

1 Speak Up

Minority communities are often on the front lines of environmental health issues from pollution in busy urban areas to poor housing conditions By engaging in public discussions, writing to MPs, or joining community forums, we can ensure our experiences influence decisions

2 Support the Next Generation

Educating young people about current environmental issues and showing them career pathways in this field creates a more diverse and inclusive sector Mentorship, school programs, and outreach can make a real difference

3 Lead Local Green Projects

From community gardens to energy-saving initiatives at temples, mosques, and gurdwaras, small projects can inspire entire neighborhoods When South Asian professionals lead these efforts, it sends a clear message: sustainability belongs to all of us

At Buckingham Futures, diversity is at the heart of what we do in environmental health recruitment

- Our hiring processes are fair and inclusive, giving candidates from all backgrounds a real shot

- We mentor young people, particularly from South Asian and minority backgrounds, to explore careers in environmental health

- Our leadership team is diverse, showing there isn’t just one type of person who “fits” in this industry If we want the environmental sector to truly serve society, it has to reflect society And that starts with amplifying voices that have been too quiet for too long

Pressure mounts on Starmer to attend COP30

Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing mounting calls to attend the United Nations COP30 climate summit in Bra zil t his Nove mb er, despite reports that his aides are advising against it for fe ar of political ba ck la sh from the Reform party

Leading climate figures and Labour MPs insist Starmer’s presence is essential at the leaders’ summit in Belém, where Brazil’s President Lula da Silva will host world leaders at the mouth of the Amazon rainforest

spillover effects between economies, tipping points, or mass migration “If the US is tanking, the UK will tank,” he warned The study concludes that the cost of tackling emissions now would be far less than the long-term price of inaction

Former UN secretary general Ban Ki-moon said, “Attendance is not a courtesy, it is a test of leadership This is the moment to lock in stronger national commitments and the finance to deliver them The world is watching and history will remember who showed up ” Sir David King, the government’s former chief sci-

entific adviser, stressed that leaders must set the tone on day one “Starmer’s commitment to cutting UK emissions by 81% by 2035, made at the last Cop, should be reiterated in Brazil to encourage other countries to follow suit,” he said

A final decision has yet to be taken, but with polls showing around two-thirds of the British public back stronger climate action, campaigners argue the political risk of attending is far outweighed by the diplomatic and environmental costs of staying away

S A R D A R K A T H A

brings India’s unity icon to London stage

We are fa miliar wit h Ramkatha, Shivkatha, and Hanumankatha, but last w eek Lon don hoste d a un ique progra mme , ‘ Sarda rk atha ’ , cel ebr atin g t he Ir on Man of India , Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

Organised by the National Council of Gujarati Organisations (NCGO–UK) and Gujarat’s Sardardham, the event highlighted inspiring, lesser-known episodes from Patel’s life

Aiming to inspire today’s

members

The event was honoured by dignitaries from various fields, including the Mayor of Harrow, Cllr Anjana Patel, who joined the audience in listening to the katha

On the first day, speaker Shailesh Sagpariya vividly narrated episodes from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s childhood, student life, and his time in London He recounted how Patel’s elder brother was first sent to

sented with such detail and passion that they left a profound impact on the audience

When the narration shifted to the Partition of India and the integration of 562 princely states, listeners were visibly moved Shaileshbhai also shared stories of the dedication of the rulers and the sacrifices of Sardar Patel’s daughter, Maniben Patel, bringing many to tears On this occa-

hood, student life, and time in London to life and highlighting lessons from his inspiring journey

Among the audience, a young couple stood out, they travelled three hours each way for two days, with the wife pregnant, wishing even their unborn child to hear Patel’s stories

The organisers were deeply moved by the audience ’ s enthusiasm and devotion, promising to hold Sardarkatha again in the future

Commitment to a united and greater India

On this occasion, Sardardham President Sevak Gagjibhai Sutariya stated that Sardarkatha was organised in London by Sardardham and NCGO–UK to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and it was heartening to see the enthusiastic participation of the audience Drawing inspiration from Sardar Saheb’s life, every-

younger generation with the remarkable life of Sardar Patel, speaker Shailesh Sagpariya presented Sardarkatha with such engaging storytelling and charm that Sardar Saheb’s legacy left a lasting impression on the hearts and minds of all in attendance

The two-day programme at the Navnat Centre in Hayes drew an overwhelming response, exceeding all expectations

Attendees travelled from near and far, staying fully engaged for four continuous hours of Sardarkatha narration The turnout was so large that the hall struggled to accommodate all the eager Gujarati audience

London to study law and how Patel himself later followed, highlighting powerful lessons from his life that continue to inspire

Over two consecutive days, with four-hour sessions each, the audience remained fully engaged, absorbing the essence of the katha in its entirety

A living experience of inspiring incidents

During the katha, Shailesh Sagpariya vividly recounted the Bardoli Satyagraha, highlighting how Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel empowered farmers and bolstered their morale through tireless efforts The inspiring episodes were pre-

sion, it was announced that a department at Sardardham University would be named in her honour

The katha left a strong impact on the younger generation, bringing Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s child-

one collectively resolved to work towards building “One India, a Greater India ”

The message of Sardardham is clear: development and progress of India should not be pursued

through individual effort alone, but through collective dedication, so that India can grow and emerge as a global leader

It is noteworthy that from this very land of London and Britain, numerous eminent personalities received their education and later contributed significantly to India’s independence Among them were leading freedom fighters and leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi,

Guests relished delicious food, graciously supported by Rangolee Sweet Centre, graciously provided by Rangolee Sweet Centre, while the event received extensive promotion through its exclusive print media partners, Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar

Gujarat’s Shaileshbhai connects communities through ‘Sardarkatha’

It is noteworthy that the speaker of Sardarkatha, Shailesh Sagpariya, has created a unique identity among Gujaratis in India and abroad by sharing short, engaging, and insightful stories under the title “Aajni Varta (Today’s News)” via WhatsApp

Having served as a Senior Class One Officer in the Government of Gujarat, Shaileshbhai now plays the role of a mentor for the younger generation He selflessly guides and inspires students preparing for competitive exams, helping them secure government jobs without any bias or distinction

Born into a modest family in a small village like Moviya in Saurashtra, Shaileshbhai worked hard alongside his studies to support his family, labouring in the fields, working as an office boy, polishing diamonds and simultaneously honing his own skills and knowledge Through this dedication, he earned the blessings of the late President Swami Maharaj and the current Mahant Swami Maharaj

Despite challenging financial circumstances, he excelled academically and after completing his M Com, secured the third rank in the Class One examination conducted by GPSC across the entire state of Gujarat.

Shaileshbhai s storytelling style is simple, engaging and highly effective, so much so that listeners often refer to him as a “living story ” He has published 33 books on various topics, many of which have been recognised and awarded by the Gujarat Sahitya Akademi Most of his books have become bestsellers, with combined sales reaching hundreds of thousands of copies

In addition to being an accomplished author, Shaileshbhai is a skilled orator His lectures and seminars are regularly held across Gujarat and throughout India

Jaguar Land Rover secures £2bn lifeline

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), the icon ic British ca rm a ke r owned by Tata Motors, has resumed production after a d ev ast at ing cy ber at ta ck forced a month-long shutdown, thanks to a new £2bn funding facility from commercial banks

The emergency credit line, provided by Standard Chartered, Citigroup, and Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, comes on top of a £1 5bn government-backed loan guarantee, designed to protect the sprawling supply chain that supports roughly 200,000 jobs

The cyberattack, which hit JLR’s systems on August 31, left production at a standstill and forced the company to register new vehicles manually In response, the partial restart of IT systems has allowed JLR to begin clearing supplier payments, though full operational normalcy remains weeks away The £2bn facility, priced at

investment-grade levels, is intended primarily as a liquidity backstop amid lingering operational uncertainty

The British government’s involvement, through UK Export Finance, covers up to 80 per cent of a separate commercial loan split between HSBC and MUFG While cross-party support has welcomed the intervention as vital to protect suppliers, critics warn it may create a “moral hazard”, the risk that companies take on excessive risks if they expect the state to rescue them In JLR’s case, the

absence of cyber insurance and reliance on government backing has sparked debate about whether firms will now underinvest in security, knowing taxpayers might shoulder the fallout of future cyber crises

Moral hazard refers to the risk that companies or individuals may engage in riskier behaviour when they believe they are protected from the consequences

Some experts also questioned why JLR needed government backing to secure a loan from commercial banks and whether Tata Motors,

its Indian owner, could have intervened Despite these questions, cross-party support emphasised the importance of protecting the automotive sector, with Labour MP Liam Byrne describing the guarantee as “the right thing for the government to do” to prevent industry collapse

JLR has yet to sign a formal agreement with a bank The company previously received £500mn in export development guarantees against a £625mn loan in 2022, with a remaining balance of £219mn

JLR accounts for more than 70 per cent of Tata Motors’ consolidated revenues, and its recovery is critical for the automotive sector PB Balaji, recently appointed JLR CEO and former Tata Motors finance chief, assured lawmakers that the company is “in a good position” to meet commitments to retailers and suppliers

Gold delivers record returns, surges 85% in 21

Gold has reached an unprecedented milestone by crossing USD 3,800 per ounce, marking an all-time record in the global markets

This development is particularly significant because it validates the confidence that investors, institutions, and households alike have consistently placed in gold as a hedge against uncertainty

The 36% hike in the last 9 months demonstrates gold’s resilience and its ability to deliver consistent returns even in an environment where traditional assets are under pressure

For Indian consumers, this is especially heartening news, as gold continues to occupy a dual role, an adornment that carries immense cultural significance, and a safe, long-term investment that secures financial stability across generations While consumer demand remains steady, what is noteworthy

in this cycle is that institutional investors, sovereign wealth funds, and central banks have emerged as the largest buyers of gold Their significant participation underscores gold’s unique position as an asset that transcends borders, currencies, and economic cycles

Looking ahead, I am confident that the momentum will continue, driven by a combination of macroeconomic factors including the imposition of tariffs, weak-

Over 100 London pubs could close next year

The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) has warned that more than 2,000 pubs in England, representing around 12,000 jobs, could close next year unless the Government acts to reduce one of the sector’s largest costs In London alone, approximately 115 pubs, equating to 223 jobs, are at risk

The association described the sector as heading into a “perfect storm” in 2026, driven by the planned withdrawal of business rates relief and the upcoming revaluation of business properties, both of which would push costs even higher

These figures are based on a report by the Centre for Economic and Business Research, commissioned by the BBPA, which predicts that England could lose roughly six pubs per day if no action is taken Business rates bills for pubs are expected to rise by more than 50%, compounding already unsustainable pressures

The BBPA warned that without reform in the upcoming Autumn Budget, the UK could lose 2,000 pubs- a “wrecking ball” for the economy, livelihoods, and the communities that rely on them The association says there is still time to act, calling on the Chancellor to apply a 20p-in-the-pound reduction in business rates for pubs

This move could save nearly 40% of at-risk pubs, protect 5,400 jobs, and generate almost £100 million in Gross Value Added (GVA) to the UK economy

ening of the U S dollar, and the persistent need for safehaven assets in volatile markets Given these dynamics, I foresee gold advancing towards the USD 5,000 per ounce mark in the coming years This outlook reinforces what our customers have always believed, that gold is not merely ornamental, but a strategic and enduring investment

Key Points

Gold has delivered record returns to consumers, rising by an impressive 85% in the last 21 months This makes it one of the strongest performing assets globally

In 2024 alone, gold prices have increased by 37% This demonstrates its ability to grow even when other investments face challenges

Over the past 9 months, gold has risen by 36% This steady climb shows its resilience and reliability as an asset

months

For the first time in history, gold has crossed USD 3,800 per ounce today (22K per gram AED:424 25, INR:10,670) This milestone marks an all-time global record institutions (Central banks), Investors and households continue to trust gold as a safe-haven asset It remains a proven hedge against uncertainty and volatility

For Indian consumers, gold is both cultural pride and financial security It serves as an adornment while protecting wealth for generations

Large purchases by central banks, sovereign wealth funds, and institutions have driven demand Their participation reinforces gold’s universal appeal Global factors point to continued momentum for gold in the future

Experts see the potential for it to reach USD 5,000 per ounce by next year

BoE’s Dhingra urges quicker interest rate cuts

Bank of E ng l and int erest r at e-set t er

Sw at i Dh ingr a has su gg est ed t h at Britain’s high inflation is likely to ease, and that the central bank should move more quickly to reduce borrowing costs

Writing in a column for The Times, Dhingra argued that the shocks driving the UK’s current inflation relative to Europe are temporary and should not make policymakers overly cautious about cutting interest rates Dhingra was one of two members of the nine-strong Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) who this month voted to lower the BoE’s benchmark Bank Rate by 0 25 percentage points, while the remaining seven opted to keep it on hold at 4%

She pointed out that the gap in inflation between the UK and its continental neighbours is largely due to administered prices and global commodity shocks, which are expected to pass “We can afford to cut rates further and not put additional strain on economic growth without threatening the inflation target,” she wrote Britain currently has the highest inflation among Group of Seven economies, at 3 8% in August The BoE expects it to peak at 4% in September before gradually returning to its 2% target in spring 2027 However, there are early signs of a weakening labour market as employers reduce hiring

Dear Financial Voice Reader,

Alpesh Patel

One of the readers asked me a difficult question – how do I work out how much I can withdraw at retirement from my pension? Now it sounds simple But communications is key and I want people to have the simple tools to work it out So I got my programmers on the case to create a simple online tool which you can use for free and play around with the numbers Obviously you would seek advice but it’s a good educational starting point It’s at www campaignforamillion com/tools

How to Work Out Your Safe Withdrawal Rate at Retirement

Your safe withdrawal rate is the percentage you can draw from your pension each year without likely running out of money Recent studies put it around 3 7% a year for a 30 year retirement because high stock valuations, low bond yields and fees reduce expected returns A 1% fee can cut your safe rate by about 0 4%

Use a Calculator

The Safe Withdrawal Rate Calculator I created tests many market scenarios to estimate how much you can withdraw You enter:

• starting pot,

• expected return and volatility (shares often return 7–10% a year but can swing a lot),

• monthly contributions and years until retirement,

• and your planned retirement age and expected life span

The tool calculates a sustainable withdrawal rate and the chance your money will last It shows the value of starting early: investing £200 monthly from age 25 could grow to about half a million pounds and support around £20 000–£28 000 a year Starting at 35 with £400 monthly might yield £16 000–£22 000

What Studies Show

Morningstar’s 2024 review, used by Fidelity, finds a safe starting rate of about 3 7% for a 30 year retirement, about 4 2% for 25 years and near 5% for 20 years Schwab’s research suggests 4 2%–4 8% for 30 years Your own rate depends on:

• how long you need your money to last,

• your mix of shares and bonds,

• total fees,

• and how you adjust withdrawals for inflation

Balanced portfolios mix growth and stability Too much equity can lower your safe rate because of volatility, though it may leave more money at the end Inflation adjustments matter too: linking income to inflation minus 1% can raise the starting rate a little These rates are guidelines; your health, spending needs and other assets can move the number up or down

Practical Steps

• Start saving early Small monthly contributions compound over decades

• Raise contributions as income rises

• Keep costs low with low-fee funds and transparent adviser charges

• Diversify across shares and bonds that match your risk level

• Review your plan each year and adjust as markets or your situation changes

• Factor in other income sources such as state pensions, annuities or part time work

Key Questions

• When discussing your plan, ask:

• What is my return after fees and inflation?

• What am I paying in total charges?

• How does my asset mix match my goals and timeline?

Final

• How will my withdrawal plan change if markets fall?

Thought

There is no single right rate for everyone A starting point of 3 7% a year is sensible for a 30 year retirement, but your rate depends on your timeline, investments, costs and goals A good calculator and regular reviews can help you make confident decisions about your retirement income

Science Minister warns UK must raise drug prices

The UK may need to pay more for medicines to prevent a wave of pharmaceutical investment leaving the country, science minister Lord Patrick Vallance has warned

His comments follow a series of recent decisions by global drug companies to pause or scrap UK projects, prompting concerns about the nation’s competitiveness Critics blame low prices for new drugs, limited government investment, and pressure from US policy under Donald Trump for discouraging firms from the UK “Price increases are going to be a necessary part” of the solution, Vallance told the BBC, adding that how additional funding would be provided is a matter for the Department of Health and the Treasury

Speaking at the opening of Moderna’s new Oxfordshire facility, where millions of flu and Covid vaccines will be produced, Vallance stressed that a deal must be reached “because it’s in the interest of the economy, it’s in the interest of patients ” Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who also attended, said there is an ongoing conversation between government departments and the pharma industry on pricing

India targets a 'Maruti moment' in shipbuilding

India is aiming for a “Maruti moment” in shipbuilding, seeking to replicate the t ran sform ative succe ss of Ma ruti Suzuki in the 1980s

The government has announced a £7 billion package to rejuvenate domestic shipyards, strengthen the maritime ecosystem, and reduce the country’s heavy reliance on foreign vessels, which currently handle around 95% of India’s import-export trade

The initiative includes a maritime development fund, a revamped shipbuilding assistance scheme, and incentives to attract South Korean and Japanese shipbuilders to set up operations in India, either independently or in collaboration with local yards The move is designed to draw global investment, expand domestic capacity, and enhance longterm maritime security

“With this new package, it’s like the Maruti moment for shipbuilding,” said TK Ramachandran, Secretary at the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways “But we must create significant domestic demand for ships to make these incentives effective ”

India currently spends $75 billion a year on foreign vessels, a figure set to

hit $400 billion by 2047 without domestic expansion With just 1,500 ships and a dozen shipyards producing under 1% of global supply, India aims to attract Korean and Japanese builders seeking alternative locations

What was India’s 'Maruti moment'?

In the 1980s, India witnessed a

transformative shift in its industrial landscape with the launch of Maruti

Suzuki, a partnership between the Indian government and Japanese automaker Suzuki At a time when India’s automobile sector was nascent, fragmented, and largely inaccessible to the average consumer, Maruti introduced a small, affordable, and fuel-efficient car, the Maruti 800, that would revolutionise personal mobility across the country

The government-backed venture combined Japanese technological expertise with domestic manufacturing, creating a model for rapid industrial modernisation Maruti didn’t just manufacture cars; it created an entire ecosystem, from component suppliers and dealerships to maintenance networks, paving the way for the expansion of India’s middle class into car ownership

The “Maruti moment” was more than just a commercial success It symbolised India’s capacity to embrace technology, attract foreign investment, and drive large-scale domestic production It set a precedent for public-private collaboration, industrial policy, and consumer-focused innovation that reshaped India’s manufacturing ambitions

India and Australia sign organic products pact to boost bilateral trade

I ndia a nd Aust ralia hav e signed a Mutual Recognition Ag reement (MRA) to s ignifican tly s implif y the t rade a nd s hipment of orga nic produc ts betwee n the two nations This key agreement, which forms part of their existing trade deal, a ims to st reamline the moveme nt of cer tif ied orga nic goods , bene fiting f armer s a nd ex port ers in both countries

The pact specifically facilitates the export of three main categories: unprocessed plant products (excluding seaweed, aquatic plants, and greenhouse crops), processed food, and wine Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal highlighted the tangible economic benefits, noting that because organic produce commands 30-40% higher prices, the agreement will directly contribute to improved livelihoods for farmers Barthwal stressed the need for integrity in the supply chain, stating, “Organic products must not be so-called organic but certified organic, with every stakeholder in the chain taking pride in maintaining that integrity ”

The agreement aims to unlock substantial market potential Last year, India's organic exports to Australia were estimated at $9 million, with Australian officials identifying significant opportunities for growth in sectors such as cereals, tea, spices,

beverages, and wine This mutual recognition simplifies customs procedures and reduces the bureaucratic hurdles previously faced by exporters, reinforcing the economic ties between the two Commonwealth nations

OECD and S&P project India's robust economic expansion

Global economic organisations have issued positive forecasts for India’s economy, with the O rganis ation fo r Ec onomic Cooperation and Development ( OECD) and S &P G lo bal R atings pro jecting s tro ng growth figures

The Paris-based OECD has raised India’s economic growth forecast by 40 basis points for the 2025–26 fiscal year Citing a favourable combination of monetary and fiscal policy easing,

alongside reforms linked to the Goods and Services Tax (GST), the OECD now projects that India’s growth will reach 6 7% in 2025 and an estimated 6 2% in 2026

While acknowledging that higher tariff rates may weigh on the export sector, the overall forecast anticipates activity will remain strongly supported by domestic policy

In a separate report, S&P Global Ratings has

maintained its projection for India’s GDP growth at a robust 6 5% for the current fiscal year, primarily supported by strong domestic demand The ratings agency highlighted several factors sustaining this strength: a largely benign monsoon season, cuts to the income and goods and services tax, and accelerating government investment This confidence follows better-than-expected

GDP growth of 7 8% in the June quarter The report also noted a contrasting outlook for China, whose economy S&P expects to slow to approximately 4% year-onyear in the second half of 2025 and 2026, due to weakening exports, tepid domestic demand, and contained macro stimulus

This highlights India's strengthening position as a key engine of global economic growth

India to remain fastest growing G20 economy: Moody's

Moody’s Ratings said that India will remain the fastest gr owing G20 econ om y in the next two to three years

w hil e r eta in ing t he country's sovereign rating at B aa 3 and m ainta ined t he outlook as stable

“We project economic growth to be sustained at 6 5% in fiscal 2025-26 as govt’s continued emphasis on capital expenditure, lower inflation, and the consequent easing of

monetary policy will support robust domestic consumption and investment,” Moody’s Ratings said It said that the US imposition of high tariffs (currently at 50%) will have limited negative impact on India’s economic growth in the near term However, it cautioned that it may constrain potential growth over the medium to long term by hindering India’s

ambitions to develop a higher value-added export manufacturing sector

Earlier, Morningstar, DBRS, and S&P Global Ratings upgraded India’s sovereign credit rating, and this was followed by Japanese credit ratings agency RI, which upgraded India from BBB to BBB+ The rating upgrades will help boost investor sentiment and ease borrowing costs for

India's smartphone exports to US soar by 190% amid Trump tariff concerns

India’s exports of smartphones to the United States have witnessed a spectacular surge, growing by a staggering 190% in the April–August period of the current financial year

Driven primarily by shipments of Apple’s iPhone, exports rocketed to $8 4 billion, a sharp increase from the $2 9 billion recorded during the same period last year This unprecedented rush means the five-month figures have already reached nearly 80% of the entire FY25 smartphone exports to the US This acceleration is largely attributed to manufacturers attempting to pre-empt the risk of looming Trump tariffs As a result, companies like Apple have provided a major push to production and exports from the nation

According to figures compiled by the Indian Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA), the growing demand in American markets is overwhelmingly being met by Indian manufacturing bases Factories belonging to Taiwan’s Foxconn and the Tata Group have been aggressively expanding their production capabilities Apple’s Global CEO Tim Cook confirmed this shift, announcing after his latest quarterly results that the vast majority of iPhones sold in the US now have a country of origin of India

Led by this American demand, India’s overall smartphone exports in the first five months of FY26 hit a record $11 7 billion (approximately £10bn) The category has emerged as one of the best performers in India's export kitty since the launch of the government’s Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, validating the success of the initiative

HDFC Bank banned from accepting new clients in Dubai

Mumbai-based HDFC, India's biggest private lender by assets and market capitalisation, was restricted from soliciting or accepting new clients who were unable to complete the onboarding process as of September 25, 2025, the bank said in a filing to the Bombay Stock Exchange, citing an email from the Dubai Financial Services Authority

The services included in the ban are advising on financial products, arranging investment deals and credit, advising on credit and arranging custody, and soliciting, onboarding or engaging in any financial promotions with any new client, it said However, the ruling does not include HDFC's continued services to existing clients at its DIFC branch and the onboarding of and servicing of customers who may have been previously offered or provided financial services and who had not, at such time, been onboarded as clients of the branch

"The business undertaken at the DIFC branch is not material to the bank’s operations or its financial position and accordingly no implications are expected with respect to the overall operations or financial position of the bank," it added

The UAE has strict rules for its industries as it seeks to maintain its status as the commercial and financial hub of the Middle East, and promote a business environment conducive for investors

It has rolled out several initiatives specific to the financial sector in order to protect the industry's clients and investors

HDFC's international footprint includes the DIFC branch and a representative office in Abu Dhabi It also has branches in Bahrain and Hong Kong, with other representative offices in Kenya, London and Singapore

Tata Capital plans India's biggest IPO at £1.55bn

Tata Capital’s £1 55bn IPO will be open between Oct 6-8, with anchor bids on Oct 3 Priced at Rs 310–326 a share, the offer values the firm at £13 2 to 13 8bn Investors must bid for at least 46 shares

At the floor, pricing matches Tata Sons’ rights issue earlier this year - well below the grey-market frenzy that once saw trades over Rs 1,000 before Trump’s tariff tantrums roiled equities

companies

The agency also said that it expects subsequent negotiations between India and the US to result in less punitive rates and domestic market-oriented foreign investment to remain robust

The agency said that the stable outlook incorporates India’s gradually improving fiscal metrics and resilient growth prospects compared with peers

The 476 million share issue comprises 210 million fresh shares and a 266 million offer for sale (OFS), leading to 11% dilution Tata Sons will sell 230 million shares, IFC 36 million Proceeds from the fresh issue will bolster Tata Capital’s tier-1 capital; OFS money goes to selling shareholders

“For 18 years, we funded the business with our own capital and were happy with the returns The IPO is driven by regulatory timelines, though we were glad to support its growth,” said Saurabh Agarwal, group CFO Tata Sons and chairman Tata Capital On a bank licence, he said: “That question comes up only as and when the corporate houses are allowed to own a bank ”

“If India grows at 6 5–7%, credit will expand 11–12% Retail and SME credit has been growing faster, at 17–18% We are in the segment witnessing the strongest growth in the industry,” said Rajiv Sabharwal, MD & CEO, Tata Capital

Trump hosts Pak PM and Army chief in White House embrace

WASHING TO N: US President

Dona ld Trump hoste d a n e xtr aord in ary me eting in t he O val O ff ice , wel com in g b oth Pa kistan ’ s Prime Min iste r Shehbaz Sharif and the army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir

This public embrace marks a stun ning de part ure f rom Trump’s long-standing characterisation of the country as a d eceitf ul te rror ist have n throughout his political career

The White House was conspicuously silent following the unusual 80-minute engagement; it released no official statements, readouts, or details about the talks In contrast, Islamabad was voluble, releasing a series of social media posts and photos that documented the closed-door meeting

According to the Pakistani government’s posts, Trump and Sharif discussed steps for enhancing cooperation on

regional security and counterterrorism Sharif reportedly thanked Trump for his open support of Pakistan’s role in counter-terrorism and stressed the need to increase security and intelligence cooperation further Sharif also used the opportunity to invite US companies to invest in Pakistan’s energy, IT, agriculture, mines, and resources sectors, and extended an invitation to Trump to visit Pakistan at his

convenience

The visit followed Sharif’s highly flattering address to the UN General Assembly, where he described Trump as a champion of peace Sharif went on to announce that Pakistan had officially nominated the US President for the Nobel Peace Prize for his outstanding contribution to promoting peace in South Asia following the conflict with India Sharif backed

Trump's repeated claims that he mediated the ceasefire between between India and Pakistan, a claim which New Delhi has repeatedly rejected Pakistan's rare earth wealth claim

According to a report, Pakistani leadership had flashed glimpses of its purported rare earth mineral wealth during a meeting with Trump, so that they can worm its way back into Washington's good books Pakistan has long spoken of its vast untapped oil, gas and mineral ores, mostly in insurgencyhit Balochistan and also in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa While none of the mineral deposits is commercially proven or quantified, Pakistan’s leadership showcased the baubles to the US President to highlight collaboration and exploration bids it signed with a private US firm earlier this month

25 killed, dozens injured in 3 bomb blasts in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: At least 25 people were killed in three attacks in Pakistan on Tuesday, officials said, including 14 who died after a suicide bomber targeted a political rally in the southwestern province of Balochistan

Dozens of people were wounded in that explosion, which took place in the parking lot of a stadium in the provincial capital, Quetta, where hundreds of members of the Balochistan National Party (BNP) had gathered, two provincial officials said At least seven of the wounded were in critical condition, the officials said

Another attack in Balochistan, near the border with Iran, claimed five lives, while six

soldiers were killed after a suicide attack on their base in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province

Balochistan is Pakistan's largest and most resource-rich province, but also its poorest, and regularly ranks among the lowest on human development indicator scorecards The BNP campaigns on a platform calling for greater rights and economic investment in the wellbeing of members of the Baloch ethnicity The party's chief, Akhtar Mengal, had just finished speaking at the Quetta rally and was leaving the venue when the attack occurred He said he was "safe" in a post on social media

Since 2014, China has invested signifi-

cantly in building a road-and-infrastructure project in Balochistan linked to its One Belt One Road initiative

Pakistani forces have been battling an insurgency in the province for more than a decade, and in 2024 the region saw a sharp rise in violence, with 782 people killed Elsewhere in Balochistan, five paramilitary personnel were killed and four wounded when a homemade bomb exploded as their convoy passed through a district near the Iranian border, a senior local official said On Tuesday, six soldiers were killed in an attack on a paramilitary headquarters in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa city of Bannu, the military said

India and Asean revive trade talks with new landing zone package

KUALA LUMPUR: India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (As ean) have reignited crucial trade discussions, with the regional bloc offering a significant new package aimed at creating a ‘landing zone ’ for India’s long-standing concerns regarding a widening trade deficit The talks, coming amid an unsettling global economic scenario, are focused on resolving disputes under the Asean -I ndia Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA)

Following a less than satisfactory AITIGA review in Delhi last month, the Asean bloc took swift action Mastura Ahmad Mustafa, Deputy Secretary General (Trade) from

Malaysia’s Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry, confirmed the development She stated that special Asean Economic Ministers (AEM) meetings were convened to reach key decisions and offered the new proposal, which will provide a constructive basis to progress the discussions The goal is to achieve a substantial conclusion of the review process before the end of this year

India’s trade deficit with Asean currently stands at a considerable $43 57 billion in the fiscal year 2022–23, a figure New Delhi is keen to address The Indian delegation, led by Minister of State for Commerce & Industry Jitin Prasada, has arrived in Kuala

New Jersey and Karnataka ink sister state agreement

TRENTON: New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has formalised a landmark Sister State Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Karnataka, India’s primary technology and innovation hub This st ra te gic mov e is de sig ne d to for ge st ron ge r e conom ic a n d technological links between the US state and the Asian powerhouse

The agreement was signed by Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of State Tahesha Way and Dr Ekroop Caur, Secretary to the Government of Karnataka, and was facilitated by the state s business attraction organisation, Choose New Jersey The MoU establishes a definitive framework for mutual collaboration in highgrowth sectors These include life sciences, cutting-edge technology, artificial intelligence, cyber security, electronics, and semiconductors

Governor Murphy hailed the decision, underscoring the natural alignment between the regions’ innovation ecosystems, and affirming, “New Jersey and Karnataka are both powerhouses of innovation ” The agreement is effective for two years, with an option to renew, and is specifically structured to offer ‘soft-landing’ support for startups in both locations, facilitating their market expansion

Way confirmed that the document builds upon

a Letter of Intent that was signed during her visit to India in December Dr Caur, in turn, expressed that the partnership will significantly expand opportunities for Karnataka's startups and emerging technologies

Lumpur, where Malaysia is hosting the 57th AEM & related meetings

While the exact details of the ‘package’ remain confidential, officials pointed out that the proposals are specifically designed not just to tackle current trade frictions but to unlock the vast, untapped potential of the economic ties between the two entities Sources indicate that the final framework is likely to include proposals for joint ventures in high-potential sectors such as electronics and pharmaceuticals, underscoring a joint commitment to building shared prosperity and harnessing India’s economic heft in the region

Yunus blames India’s support for Hasina for strained ties

NEW YORK: Muhammad Yunus, the chief adviser of Bangladesh's interim government, has stated that his country's relationship with New Delhi is currently strained He attributes this tension to India’s unwavering support for the ousted former prime minister Sheikh Hasina and New Delhi's reported disapproval of the massive studentled protests that ultimately led to her downfall last year

Speaking in New York during his visit for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Yunus was critical of India's decision to host Hasina, saying, “They (India) are hosting Hasina who created all this problem and killed young people ” In the same breath, he alleged that a significant amount of “fake news is coming from the other side (India) ” The interim government in Dhaka has accused Hasina of committing crimes against humanity for her government’s heavyhanded efforts to quell the widespread uprising between July and August last year The government has formally requested India to extradite Hasina, though there has been no official response from New Delhi In a separate meeting on the sidelines of the UNGA, Yunus met with Finnish President Alexander Stubb and stated that the trials of “Hasina and her cronies are a top priority of his govt ” Whilst pushing for the revival of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), Yunus underscored the importance of regional economic cooperation However, he reiterated the immediate political obstacle, stating there are “problems with India right now because they did not like what the students have done in Bangladesh ”

in

brief

RAJ GOYLE IN RACE FOR NY COMPTROLLER

Raj Goyle a CEO attorney and former state legislator has formally launched his campaign for New York State Comptroller promising a radical overhaul of an office he claims has become complacent under the long-time incumbent Tom DiNapoli Goyle who previously served in the Kansas House of Representatives and later built a successful New York City tech company is positioning himself as the sole candidate with both public and private sector credentials The State Comptroller serves as the sole trustee of the nation s third-largest public pension fund, overseeing more than $280 billion Goyle has argued that DiNapoli has mismanaged these resources

INDIAN ARRESTED FOR FALSIFYING IDENTITY

Gurdev Singh Sohal, also known as Dev Singh and Boota Singh Sundu, has been caught by the Department of Justice for using a false identity to gain US citizenship in 2005 after being ordered deported in 1994 The DOJ filed a civil complaint on September 24 alleging that Sohal concealed his prior deportation order by providing a new name, birth date, and entry date to re-enter the country and naturalize A 2020 expert analysis confirmed that fingerprints submitted under both identities belonged to the same person thanks to the digitization of older fingerprint records by the Department of Homeland Security

DR TINA SHAH CHALLENGES OPPONENT'S VACCINE STANCE

Dr Tina Shah, a pulmonary and critical care physician and Democratic candidate for Congress in New Jersey’s 7th District, has publicly warned voters that her Republican incumbent opponent, Rep Tom Kean Jr is posing a serious risk to public health by aligning with Robert F Kennedy Jr 's antivaccine positions Dr Shah sharply criticised Kean for enabling chaos by backing political stances that she argues actively undermine patient care and scientific consensus Shah was particularly forceful in her condemnation of Kennedy Jr , who has questioned childhood immunisation schedules and promoted unsubstantiated links between Tylenol and autism

INDIAN AMONG 7 MONKS KILLED IN LANKA MISHAP

Seven Buddhist monks, including an Indian national, were killed and six others injured after a cable-operated rail cart overturned at a forest monastery in northwestern Sri Lanka, police said The incident occurred at the Na Uyana Aranya Senasanaya, a renowned Buddhist monastery located in Nikaweratiya about 125 km from Colombo The monastery is known for its meditation retreats and draws practitioners from around the world Among the seven deceased monks were an Indian a Russian and a Romanian national police said

TRAVEL BAN ON FORMER NEPAL PM OLI

The commission investigating the death of 75 people during the youth-led protest in Nepal has banned former prime minister K P Sharma Oli and four former officials from travelling abroad The inquiry commission wrote to the government to ensure that Oli and the four others don t leave the country As they are under the purview of the investigation, they should not be leaving the capital without its prior consent, the panel wrote

Kash Patel: Indian-American making history in US national security

I ndian- Ameri can K ash Patel, cu rrently D irec tor o f the Federal Bureau o f Investigation (FBI), has recently been in the s po tli ght af ter co ngressi o nal hear ings i n which he was accused of shielding the rich and famous and dodging questions about Jef frey Epstein and US President Do nald Trump

Patel cited legal constraints for not releasing additional documents and avoided questions about whether he informed former Attorney General Pam Bondi or would meet Epstein’s victims

Democrats criticised his evasiveness, while Republicans dismissed their questions as political posturing, noting Epstein was largely ignored under previous administrations Epstein, arrested during Trump’s first term, died in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial, and the Trump administration faced criticism for not releasing all governmentheld evidence related to his activities

The controversy intensified after a photo of Patel shaking hands with Pakistani Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir went viral, drawing strong reactions from Indians and the diaspora online Patel’s rise reflects the growing influence of Indian-Americans in US national security and politics A lawyer and former federal prosecutor, he first came to Trump’s attention in 2017 as senior counsel on the House Intelligence Committee He later served as a key national security aide and chief of staff to the acting Secretary of Defense A staunch Trump ally, Patel has authored a memoir, two pro-Trump children’s books, and sits on the board of Trump Media & Technology Group, which runs the Truth Social platform

FBI Chief’s path guided by Hindu values

Kash Patel has consistently embraced his Hindu heritage When he was sworn in as FBI Director, he took the oath on the Bhagavad Gita rather than the Bible, administered by Attorney General Pam Bondi in the Indian

Treaty Room at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building Patel’s girlfriend, Alexis Wilkins, held the scripture as his family looked on

Reflecting on the moment, Patel called it a symbol of the American dream, saying, “A first-generation Indian is about to lead the law enforcement agency of the greatest nation on earth That can’t happen anywhere else ” During his Senate confirmation hearing, he greeted his parents with “Jai Shri Krishna” and bowed to touch their feet, expressing gratitude for their journey from India to attend

Patel also shared experiences of racism, recalling a deeply offensive slur he had received He acknowledged the incident to the Senate Judiciary Committee, noting that while painful, it was nothing compared to the challenges faced daily by law enforcement officers

A few months ago, Patel shared a viral article on social media highlighting how his Hindu upbringing shaped his leadership style Published by India Tribune under the title “FBI Director Kash Patel: A Hindu Warrior in Washington’s Political Battlefield,” the piece resonated strongly with Indian-American and pro-MAGA audiences

The article traces Patel’s family history: his father, Pramod Patel, fled Uganda in 1972

Trump imposes 100% tariff on patented drugs, Indian firms largely spared

WASHINGTON: In a decisive move targeting the g loba l pha rma ce utical ind ustry, US President Donald Trump announced a 100% tariff on branded or patented drugs, effective October 1st, 2025 This massive tax will apply to foreign compani es unless they commi t to manufacturing the products within the United States Trump, who championed the use of tariffs to make America rich again, justified the move as a means to protect and ramp up domestic production, citing national security concerns

Crucially, the new tariff is not expected to substantially affect India This is primarily because nearly half of India’s annual pharmaceutical exports, which totalled $12 billion to the US last year, are comprised of offpatent generic drugs which Trump has explicitly exempted Furthermore, the few Indian pharmaceutical firms that supply patented products to the US, such as Sun Pharma, Dr Reddy’s, Glenmark, Cipla, and Lupin, already possess manufacturing plants on the American eastern seaboard, thus meeting the President's “is building” requirement The new rule defines this as having construction started or "breaking ground "

While India’s $66 billion pharmaceutical industry, which depends on America for over a third of its export revenue, is closely monitoring the situation, the immediate impact appears contained However, the Maga boss has hinted at potential future, pharma-wide measures of up to 250% over 18 months, which could eventually include generics, to further pressure local production

In addition to the pharmaceutical tariff, Trump announced new taxes on other goods, including a 25% tax on heavy trucks and a 50% tariff on kitchen and bathroom products These new targeted tariffs are expected to hit the European Union, China, and Vietnam the hardest, with India's exposure being modest due to relatively low export volumes in those sectors

100% tariff on films

Claiming in a social media post that “ our movie making business has been stolen from the USA, by other countries, just like stealing ‘candy from a baby,’” Trump announced a 100% tariff on movies made outside the country The move by Trump is certain to hurt India’s film industry, which derives significant revenues from the US, including via streaming services

during Idi Amin’s rule, spent time in India, and eventually settled in the US, while his mother, Anjana Patel, originally from Tanzania, also moved to New York Raised in a traditional Hindu household, Patel grew up immersed in its customs, festivals, and ethical teachings He credits these values, dharma (righteous duty), karma (accountable action), and seva (selfless service), with shaping both his personal outlook and professional approach

His India connection Patel shared that his father fled Uganda during Idi Amin’s brutal regime, which claimed the lives of 300,000 people targeted for their ethnicity His mother, originally from Tanzania, studied in India, as did his father, and the couple married there before immigrating to New York, where Patel was born He recalled growing up in a large household with his father’s seven siblings, their spouses, and several cousins “That’s the only way we knew how to do things at the time, in the ‘ 70s and ‘80s, the Indian way, but we would soon learn the American way, ” he said

According to his Department of Defense profile, Patel completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Richmond before returning to New York for a law degree He also earned a certificate in International Law from University College London’s Faculty of

Laws Patel’s family roots trace back to Bhadran, a village in Gujarat’s Anand district, from which his ancestors migrated to Uganda some 70–80 years ago

Home to around 13,000 people, Bhadran has consistently nurtured talent across politics, business, media, spirituality, and philanthropy Among its notable figures is Pankaj Patel of Zydus, one of India’s wealthiest Patels, while abroad, CB Patel, also from Bhadran, runs leading Gujarati/English news weeklies in the UK The village is also known as the birthplace of Dada Bhagwan and several other revered spiritual leaders

Rising Indian-American political presence

Indian- Americans, long celebrated for shaping the US tech landscape, are now making a significant impact in politics as well From holding key elected offices to influencing policy and civic engagement, this growing community is expanding its presence beyond Silicon Valley, bringing expertise, networks, and diverse perspectives to the national political stage

During the 2024 presidential cycle, Indian American candidates Nikki Haley and Vivek Ramaswamy made notable strides Ramaswamy, born in Cincinnati to Indian immigrant parents, became the youngest Republican presidential candidate before withdrawing and endorsing Donald Trump He later launched his campaign for Ohio governor in 2026, securing endorsements from both Trump and the Ohio Republican Party Haley, former governor of South Carolina and US ambassador to the United Nations, announced her presidential bid in February 2023 She became the first female Republican candidate to win a presidential primary and the second woman of colour to claim a major party nominating contest, before suspending her campaign in March 2024 and later joining the Hudson Institute as the Walter P Stern Chair

Guyana’s rise from a forgotten colony

to petro-state power

Elections in small countries rarely make global headlines

But on Septe mb er 1, Guyan a ’ s 45 0,000 voter s held the reins of one of the Wes ter n Hemisphere ’ s fastest-growing economies

After a painstaking count and recount, incumbent President Irfaan Ali emerged victorious on September 6, securing a second term His People’s Progressive Party (PPP) expanded its legislative majority to 36 of 65 seats In his re-inauguration speech, Ali called his second term the “most consequential” in Guyana’s history, and with the nation’s transformation underway, few would argue

The engine behind this rapid rise is oil Massive offshore discoveries, led by ExxonMobil some 190km off the Atlantic coast, have

Indian origin charged with murder for fatal stabbing of sex offender

FREMONT: A shocking incident of vigilante violence has rocked Fremont, California, where 29-year-old Varun Suresh has been charged with murder following the fatal stabbing of 71-yearold David Brimmer, a sex offender Police confirmed that Suresh specifically targeted Brimmer because he was a registered sex offender

Investigators revealed that Suresh meticulously planned the attack, utiliz-

ing the California Megan’s Law website to locate the victim, even taking screenshots of Brimmer’s profile just 45 minutes before the violent confrontation

Suresh executed the attack using a ruse, posing as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) conducting door-todoor visits to approach Brimmer’s home Upon confirming the elderly man's identity, Suresh began a terrifying pursuit across several properties

The attack culminated on a neighbour’s lawn, after Suresh chased Brimmer into a garage The victim was stabbed in the neck and throat and died at the scene despite immediate efforts by police

Suresh, who is currently in custody, reportedly told investigators that he had long planned to kill sex offenders, asserting that they deserve to die He cited a quote he believed justified his actions, claiming

reshaped the country

Since the first barrels arrived in 2019, Guyana, home to just 830,000 people, has gone from one of the poorest nations in the region to a state poised to produce more oil per capita than anywhere else GDP has quintupled in just five years, according to the IMF

Yet the real boom is only beginning As upfront costs are repaid, oil revenues are expected to soar, with government income projected at $2 5bn this year and $10bn by 2030around $20,000 per voter

To avoid the “ resource curse ” that has hampered other petro-states, Guyana has looked to Norway for guidance and established a $3 6bn sovereign wealth fund to stabilize public spending and protect its growing economy

Politics, too, is shifting

The PNCR, historically the main opposition, was overtaken by the new WIN party, led by 36-year-old Azruddin Mohamed, heir to a goldtrading dynasty and sanctioned by the US for alleged corruption WIN secured 16 parliamentary seats, positioning Mohamed as the official opposition and

introducing new dynamics in a political landscape historically divided along racial lines

Regional tensions add further complexity Venezuela continues to claim portions of Guyana, escalating propaganda and even staging elections in disputed areas The United States has backed Guyana, sending military jets over Ali’s inauguration to signal support

Once South America’s “forgotten country,” Guyana is now firmly on the global stage With soaring oil wealth, expanding infrastructure, and a young, ambitious political class, the tiny nation is reinventing itself, poised for influence far beyond its size

Canada lists Lawrence Bishnoi gang as ‘terrorist entity’

The Canada govt has listed Lawrence Bishnoi syndicate as a “terrorist entity ” The t ag t hat f oll ows Roya l Can adian Mounted Police claims that Bishnoi hired t he kill er s of Khal ist ani terrorist Hardip Singh Nijjar a ll ows Can adian cops to pr ose cut e of f ences commit ted by the ga ng pe rta ining to f ina ncin g, t rav el a nd re cr uit men t

Following the listing, any assets owned by the gang, like property, vehicles and m oney , ca n b e fr oze n or seized

Significantly, this comes at a time when the gang is facing a crackdown by Indian authorities, with several of its self-proclaimed members killed or injured in encounters

The development comes on a day when external affairs minister S Jaishankar held talks with his Canadian counterpart Anita Anand in New York In 2023, former Canadian PM Jutin Trudeau had claimed Canada had "credible evidence" of Indian agents role in Nijjar’s murder in British Columbia that June ” It would now be an offence for anyone in

Canada or Canadians abroad to knowingly deal with property owned or controlled by the Bishnoi group

“It is also an offence to directly or indirectly provide property knowing that it will be used by or benefit a terrorist group Immigration and border officials can now inform decisions on admissibility to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act,” a statement by the govt said It added that "the Bishnoi gang is a transnational criminal organisation operating primarily out of India They have a presence in Canada and are active in areas with significant diaspora

communities The Bishnoi gang engages in murder, shootings and arson, and generates terror through extortion and intimidation

They create a climate of insecurity in these communities by targeting them, their prominent community members, businesses, and cultural figures ”

This is the second instance after Dawood Ibrahim - the mastermind of the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts, enlisted by Pakistan to hurt India through narcoterrorism, who was designated a terrorist by the UN as well as the US - that an Indian criminal gang has been designated a terrorist entity by a foreign govt

India successfully tests nuclear-capable Agni-Prime from rail launcher

Ind ia has successf ull y conducted a critical test of its new-generation, nuclearcapable Agni-Prime ballistic missile, launching it for the first time from a specially de sig ned r ail-b ased l aunche r syste m The missil e, w hich b oasts a str ik e ra nge of up to 2,000km, is the smallest and lightest in the Agni series

The successful demonstration of the railmobile capability marks a significant enhancement in the operational flexibility, survivability, and crosscountry mobility of the Agni-Prime With the roadmobile version of the AgniPrime already being inducted into the triService Strategic Forces Command (SFC), the addition of the rail launcher provides crucial strategic advantages According to

Defence

Tejas

officials, the new system will allow the SFC to achieve a launch-on-the-go capability with a short reaction time, while also reducing visibility to enemy forces A key benefit of railbased launchers is their ability to evade detection by adversary satellites, for instance, by hiding in tunnels, thereby significantly increasing the system's survivability

The Agni-Prime utilises

a canister-launch missile system, similar to the more formidable Agni-V, which has a strike range exceeding 5,000km In this advanced system, the nuclear warheads are pre-mated with the missiles inside hermetically sealed canisters, simplifying logistics and readiness The test underscores India’s continued commitment to modernising its nuclear deterrent capabilities

ministry to buy 97 more

jets worth £6.65bn from HAL

India's defence ministry has signed a contract to buy 97 more Tejas Mark-1 A fighter aircraft worth £6 65bn from Hindustan Ae rona utics (HAL) The aircraft will be de live red over a six -yea r period beginning 2027-28

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is yet to get even the first of the 83 ‘improved’ Tejas Mark-1A jets ordered by the ministry in 2021 Under the agreement, the first jet was to be delivered by Feb last year, with the remaining by Feb 2028 The new contract entails delivery of 68 fighters and 29 twinseat trainers, along with associated equipment, at a cost of over £6 23bn, which goes up to around £6 65bn if taxes are included

Suman

ntr ai Gula b bh

Sumantr bhai

Date of birth - 31/8/1936

hai Desai

Date of death - 28/09/2025

Place of birth - Kampala (Uganda) Place of death - London

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Shri Sumantrai Desai on 28 September 2025. A dedicated member of the Lions Club and ariwar Samanvaya P , , he devoted his time and energy to community service and fellowship. A passionate sportsman with a deep love for cricket, Sumantrai also had a lifelong appreciation for classical Indian music, reading,

deeply felt and he will be sorely missed.

Om shanti Shanti Shanti

Son of Gulabbhai Chhimabhai Desai and Shantaben Gulabbhai Desai

Husband to: Indira Sumantrai Desai

Father to : Prashant Desai and Bindle Desai

Father in law to: Apexa Desai

Grandfather to - Khushil Desai & Anjali Desai

Brother to Amrat Desai , Niranjana Gunwantrai Naik, Indiraben amila Shamshuddin V Surendrakumar Desai, R Velani, Bhanu K elani, Kanti Nagda, Saroj Subodhrai Naik and Nila Kiritkumar Desai

Brother in law to Akkama Desai,

Prathana Sabha on

Friday 03 October 7 7.30pm to 9 .30pm 9.30pm

“The deal for 97 Tejas is a major milestone for HAL and will provide a significant boost to India’s indigenous and aerospace manufacturing capabilities These

aircraft have more indigenous content compared to previous jets,” HAL chief Dr D K Sunil said Asked about the continuing delay in delivery of the earlier 83 Tejas jets, the HAL chief said, “The primary bottleneck was the delay in supply of F404 engines from US firm General Electric which HAL had ordered in Aug 2021 Other issues related to software and radar have also faced hurdles but are expected to be resolved shortly ” Sunil said that HAL has expanded its production capacity by setting up another production line in Nashik “As of today, we have 10 Tejas Mark-1A aircraft ready So far, we have received three GE engines We expect that we shall be able to deliver at least 2 aircraft to IAF next month “GE has assured us that they will ramp up engine deliveries and give us 12 engines this year and 20 engines in the next fiscal,” he added

T R I B U T E

Shri Nemubhai Chandaria

is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of

Saturday, 27 September 2025 His loss is profoundly felt across the Jain community and by all whose lives he enriched through his wisdom, compassion, and steadfast dedication

Nemubhai was more than a leader; he was a unifying force

His vision and tireless efforts at the Institute of Jainology helped preserve and promote Jain heritage on a global scale He played a pivotal role in initiatives such as cataloguing Jain manuscripts in the British Library, creating the Jain Declaration on Nature and establishing the Jain Art Exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum His work brought international recognition to Jainism and strengthened its presence in cultural and interfaith dialogues worldwide

Through the OneJAIN platform, Nemubhai united over 30 Jain organisations across the UK, giving the community a collective voice and representation on national and international stages His dedication earned him numerous honours, including the OBE from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the OneJAIN Lifetime Achievement Award and the JAINA Global Award for Jain Heritage and Literature

Beyond his achievements, Nemubhai will be remembered for his warmth, humility and ability to bring people together across generations, continents and faiths His advocacy for the timeless Jain values of Ahimsa, compassion, and the pursuit of knowledge has inspired countless individuals around the world

CB Patel and the entire ABPL Group extend their heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones As we mourn his departure, we also celebrate a life of purpose, service, and enduring legacy May his soul attain Moksha and may his vision and work continue to inspire generations to come

PM Modi asks bureaucrats to fix infrastructure delays

Pr ime Ministe r Nar en dra M odi ha s issue d a direct instruction to the nation’s top bureaucrats an d state chief secretaries to proact ive ly r esol ve hold-ups in in fr astructure proje ct s, rather than simply waiting for him to step in and assign a ccount ab il ity for the delays

On the web-based Pragati meeting, the Prime Minister reportedly queried whether any disciplinary proceedings had been initiated against erring officials

An official noted that in nearly every Pragati meeting, the PM has consistently urged civil servants to ensure projects are completed in a timely manner and to fix responsibility when delays occur Furthermore, he has repeatedly suggested that states adopt a monitoring and review mechanism similar to 'Pragati' to resolve

local issues

During the meeting, Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan presented a progress report detailing steps taken by both the Centre and the states to expedite two major projects that have been delayed for decades These projects included the 83km Nangal

new railway line in Punjab and the North Koel Reservoir project in Bihar

and Jharkhand Modi had specifically instructed officials to put these projects on the agenda, having reviewed them in the previous Pragati meeting in June The Prime Minister urged officials to work out strategies for better coordination to resolve issues, ensuring project execution is not delayed The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) stated that Modi called for a result-oriented approach at all levels of government, focusing on translating opportunities into an improved quality of life for citizens, while advancing the goals of ease of living and ease of doing business

Modi reiterated that execution delays impose a double cost: escalating project expenditure and depriving citizens of timely access to essential services and infrastructure

Many detained as death toll at Vijay's rally rises to 41

The death toll from the stampede at a rally led by actor-politician Vijay in Karur, Tamil Nadu, has climbed to 41, with over 60 injured remaining hospitalised Among the deceased were 10 children, 17 women and 13 men

The disaster occurred on last Saturday night on a packed Karur–Erode highway Thousands of supporters of Vijay’s new political outfit, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), had gathered since morning to witness the star’s arrival

Chaos erupted when floodlights connected to a generator suddenly turned off According to a report, panic swept through the crowd after a woman cried out about her missing child, causing a crowd crush Victims were tragically trampled and trapped under vehicles as thousands desperately tried to escape the area, leading Vijay to cut short his address and appeal for calm Following the tragedy, the TVK moved the Madras High Court’s Madurai Bench, seeking a CBI or independent probe into the incident

Meanwhile, police arrested TVK Karur West district secretary V P Mathiyazhagan and central town secretary M C Pounraj in connection with a stampede and they were remanded in judicial custody for 15 days

Tamil Nadu Police moved swiftly against those it accuses of fuelling panic online On Monday, police arrested three people for allegedly circulating false claims on social media On Tuesday, the Cyber Crime Wing arrested YouTuber accusing him of spreading misinformation in a video that blamed the state government for the disaster Several influencers, party functionaries and social media users now facing criminal charges

Police said 25 accounts had been booked for sharing “ rumours and malicious theories” about the tragedy “Strict action will be taken against anyone posting or forwarding content that causes fear or disrupts public order,” the statement said

AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, who visited Karur to meet grieving families, demanded a CBI inquiry, arguing that people had “ no faith” in the DMK-appointed one-member judicial commission

He accused the government of attempting to “ cover up its failures” through video messaging and “ambulance politics ” The BJP, PMK and AMMK have raised a similar demand, questioning the venue allocation,

Varanasi’s eternal flames face transformation

Ma ny Hindus d rea m of b eing crem ate d on t he banks of the holy Ganges in Vara nasi, believing it wil l free them from the endless cycle of rebirth But the reality at the city’s cremation gha ts, Man ik arn ika an d Harishchandra, is far from peaceful

At Manikarnika, a dozen funeral pyres burn brightly against soot-stained buildings The air is thick with smoke and heat, stinging the eyes, while mourners, always men, as tradition demands, move through the tight spaces with little room for quiet reflection Around them, tourists watch, and stray dogs, goats, and rats rummage through ash, mud, wilted garlands, and bamboo from funeral biers

This mix of devotion and chaos has played out for centuries in Varanasi, and today, the pressure on the old city is greater than ever as more than half a million people live in its narrow lanes To ease the strain, the municipal council has hired two companies to upgrade the crema-

tion grounds, adding up to 40 new open and covered platforms, with more space between pyres to give families privacy The revamp will also streamline the flow of mourners, priests, and wood suppliers, while improving storage for the 100 daily pyres, each traditionally requiring 600 kg of wood

Architect Ravi Sarangan aims to cut this to 100 kg per pyre, with emissions treated before release

The project is part of a wider modernisation of Varanasi under Prime

Minister Narendra Modi, improving roads and restoring buildings While monsoon flooding has delayed work, it is scheduled to finish late next year

Even as the ghats are modernised, certain limits remain: narrow passages and pinch points cannot be widened Officials are exploring alternatives, including bringing bodies to other ghats and transporting them by boat for a more serene final journey, though public discussions on this are yet to begin

Rising water stress threatens agriculture and cities worldwide

The World Meteorologi cal Org an ization (WMO) reported a sixth consecutive year of global water imbalance, with rivers running drier or wetter than the 1991–2020 average

crowd control and allegations of police lathi charge on the day of the rally

Sitharaman meets victims’ kin

Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman who met injured persons at the govt hospital in Karur on Monday, favoured the framing of a standard operating procedure for public gatherings, especially those that involve a large number of women and children, and said such an SOP should be applicable for the entire country

Sitharaman, who along with junior minister for I&B, L Murugan, also met the families of people who were killed in the stampede on Saturday said that the two of them had been deputed by PM Narendra Modi to meet the injured and kin of those who died She will submit a report to the PM and Union home minister Amit Shah Separately, BJP president J P Nadda has constituted a team of NDA lawmakers who will visit Tamil Nadu and look into the circumstances that led to the stampede

Last year was the hottest on record, with severe droughts in the Amazon, South America, and southern Africa, while parts of Africa, Asia, and Europe saw above-average rainfall Extreme weather displaced millions and killed thousands, and Europe faced its worst flooding since 2013, with claims up to €3bn Glaciers lost 450 gig tonnes of ice, and only 38% of monitored wells have normal groundwater levels Around 3 6 billion people lack reliable water for at least a month each year, a figure expected to rise to five billion within 25 years, highlighting growing pressure on water resources

At present, India and several other countries are experiencing heavy rainfall and widespread flooding, while many regions simultaneously face severe water scarcity Between 28 August and 3 September, rainfall in northwest India was 180% above average, and in the south, it was 73% above normal

Scientists attribute these shifts to changes in the monsoon, noting that warmer temperatures have increased moisture in the air from both the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea Historically, monsoon rains were steady and

Ladakh representatives to boycott talks; seek probe into Leh firing

Ladakh representatives withdrew from scheduled talks with officials of union home ministry, demanding a judicial inquiry by a retired Supreme Court judge into the Sept 24 firing by sec uri ty f orc es i n Leh that ki lled fou r protesters and wounded more than 80

In response, govt said it has always been “ open for dialogues on Ladakh matters with Apex Body Leh (ABL) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) at any time” and “would continue to welcome the discussion”

ABL also sought withdrawal of the “antinational” label against Ladakhis and release of all those arrested, including activist Sonam Wangchuk They alleged Wangchuk was targeted after he joined ABL, which represents political and religious groups, and has been pressing for Sixth Schedule safeguards and

statehood for Ladakh

“Branding us anti-national is a slur on our patriotism We can’t hold talks at gunpoint,”

ABL co-chair Chering Dorje Lakruk said “We’ve been loyal nationalists These accusations are a black stain on us ” Talks between the Centre-appointed committee and Ladakhi groups ABL and KDA were set for Oct 6 An

ABL delegation was to travel to New Delhi on Sept 30 after cremation of the victims, while the KDA team is already in the national capital

“Whole of Ladakh wants justice The manner in which funerals were conducted under tight security, barring people from attending, has further saddened us, ” Lakruk said, while alleging CRPF personnel “indiscriminately opened fire on our children” during Wangchuk’s hunger strike in Leh

evenly spread across June to September, but today heavy rains often fall in intense bursts over small areas following prolonged dry spells Climate change is expected to worsen these extremes, leading to multi-year droughts and severe global water scarcity A recent study in Nature Communications warns that rising water demand will increasingly go unmet, affecting cities and agriculture in many countries, including India

Although parts of India are currently experiencing heavy rainfall, future water shortfalls could pose serious challenges due to uneven rainfall distribution, seasonal variability, poor water management, inadequate infrastructure, pollution, and unsustainable groundwater extraction Without effective storage and distribution systems, heavy rains can cause both floods and droughts, threatening agriculture and adding to farmers’ distress Last year saw severe droughts, while this year ’ s excessive rainfall highlights the growing challenges posed by climate imbalance India and Pakistan continue to face disputes over shared rivers, with both countries heavily dependent on cross-border water for agriculture and drinking needs The disagreement goes beyond resources, carrying significant political implications

Following the 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, India placed certain projects “in abeyance,” which escalated tensions related to the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) of 1960 Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the unilateral suspension as a violation of international law and a potential act of war, while India maintains that the move is a response to Pakistan’s support for terrorism The dispute also involves disagreements over hydropower projects and lacks provisions for climate change adaptation and groundwater management, creating long-term risks for both nations’ water security Recent flooding in Pakistan has further heightened the urgency of the situation

Rising climate variability underscores the importance of cooperative water management In India, initiatives such as the Narmada Dam have improved water security in regions like Saurashtra and Kutch, while river-linking proposals remain vital for ensuring better water distribution across the country

Karnataka

HC refuses to stay caste

survey, but with a caveat

BENGALU RU: The Karnataka hig h court de clin ed pl ea s t o in te rfer e with the socioe co nom ic su rve y , popul a rly k now n as t he ca ste surv ey , con duct ed by the st at e go ve rn me nt Howe ve r, th e court ordered the authorities not to disclose any data obtained from participants in the process and to notify participants that their participation was voluntary

“In view of the above, we do not find to interdict the ongoing survey However, we state that data collected shall not be disclosed to any person The Commission shall ensure that data is fully protected and kept confidential We further direct the Commission to issue a public notification that clarifying in this survey is voluntary and no person is obligated to disclose any information, and info disclosed is voluntary, Livelaw quoted a division bench of chief justice Vibhu Bakhru and justice CM Joshi as saying

The Karnataka government told the

high court that the Union government was “speaking in two voices” as it defended the ongoing caste survey that has drawn criticism from the BJP The state told the high court that while the Centre itself “ piloted the 105th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2021 ” to restore the power of state governments to identify and list backward classes, it was now opposing the survey solely because Karnataka was under a different political dispensation

“Having brought about this amendment, the Centre now conveniently supports the petitioners simply because a different political party is in power in the state,” senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who appeared for the Karnataka government, told the court Singhvi reiterated before a bench of chief justice Vibhu Bakhru and justice CM Joshi that the exercise was not a “caste census ” but a socioeconomic and educational survey, well within the state’s legislative competence

Punjab CM unveils 100 feet Tricolour at Bhagat Singh memorial

JALANDHAR: Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Singh Mann dedicated a Tricolour on a 100-foot tall flagpole a t Shahe ed-Az am B hag at Singh

He ritag e Museum on the birth

a nn iv ersa ry of the mar tyr The Tricolour measures 30 feet by 20 feet

The CM paid floral tributes to Bhagat Singh and said a £5 17mn Shaheed Bhagat Singh Heritage complex at the native village of the legendary martyr would be dedicated to the state in the coming months

The CM's event at the village was sans frills and without the any political rally or rhetoric Upon entry, he washed his hands, took off his shoes, laid flowers and offered salute at the martyr’s memorial and laid a floral wreath at Bhagat Singh’s statue before proceeding to the flag hoisting through a switch

The CM said the 30 x 20 feet Tricolour would add zing to the complex He also said that the work on the heritage project was on in full swing and would be completed soon

He said the complex would feature a grand thematic gate, a 350m-long heritage street connecting Shaheed Bhagat Singh Museum to his ancestral house narrating the life journey of Shaheed-e-Azam and India’s freedom struggle through sculptures, 2D/3D wall art, and mannequins, capturing the essence of colonial-era India Mann added that Bhagat Singh’s ancestral home at Khatkar Kalan was also being restored A digital recreation of Shaheed Bhagat Singh’s courtroom trial was being developed and the existing library was being modernised and digitised to offer an immersive experience

Calcutta HC asks Centre to bring back 6 deported to Bangladesh

KOLKATA: The Calcutta High Court ga ve the Centre four weeks to bring back Sunali Khatun and five others, three of them minors, who were branded ille gal immigrants a nd deported to Ban glades h exactly three months ago

The HC also scrapped the June 2 6 or der of Delhi Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) based on which the six from Bengal’s Birbhum, who were held in Delhi on charges of being illegal settlers, were flown to Guwahati and pushed into the neighbouring country

The bench of justices Tapabrata Chakraborty and Reetobroto Kumar Mitra, acting on a petition by Sunali’s father Bhodu Sheikh, slammed Delhi police for their “ over enthusiasm” in deporting the group and asked the Centre to approach the Bangladesh govt through the Indian high commission in Dhaka to ensure their return The bench also rejected the

Centre’s plea that the order be kept in abeyance Sunali, expecting a child any time now, her husband Danish Sk and the couple’s eight-year-old son Sabir are in Chapai Nawabganj prison in Bangladesh With them are Sweety Biwi and her two minor sons, Kurban and Imam They were arrested in Bangladesh on Aug 21 for illegally entering the country A Bangladesh court is likely to hear their bail plea on Oct 6 Sunali, Danish and Sweety earned a living working as ragpickers in Delhi’s Rohini Tearing into the Centre’s submission that under the Foreigners Act, 1946, the burden of proof falls on detainees to prove that they are Indians, the division bench said, “Such provision does not empower the executive to pick up a person at random, knock at his or her door and tell him that he is aforeigner ”

Man gets death sentence for rape-murder of minor

BELA GA VI: A special fast track Pocso court awarded death sentence to a convict, Bharatesh Mirji, over the rape and murder of a minor girl Mirji, hailing from Paramanandwadi in Karnataka’s Belagavi district, enticed the victim to his house on Oct 15, 2019 on the pretext of giving her chocolates and sexually assaulted her He strangled her to death when she screamed and resisted He then weighed down the girl with a stone in a well next to his house The victim’s father filed a complaint at Kudachi police station regarding the girl’s disappearance Police found the girl’s body in the well with the help of a sniffer dog In the ensuing investigation, they identified Mirji as a suspect and filed a chargesheet C M Pushpalata, the judge who conducted the trial, announced the verdict recently In the verdict, she also ordered the District Legal Services Authority to give Rs 10,00,000 in compensation to the parents of the victim

Punjab to launch mass campaign to curb stubble burning

CHANDIGAR H: Punjab govt will launch an extensive campaign to highlight the ill effects of stubble burning and the b ene fits of crop residue ma nag emen t (CRM ) machinery Stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana is often blamed for the rise in air pollution in Delhi after harvesting of the paddy crop in October and November Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian said the Khudian said the extensive campaign aims at engaging communities, students and farmers to drive a behavioural shift towards eco-friendly practices, thereby promoting sustainable agriculture The multi-faceted IEC strategy encompasses a wide range of activities designed for maximum reach and impact To effectively disseminate information, the department will deploy 50 dedicated publicity vans to broadcast informative messages in rural areas Additionally, 444 ‘nukkad nataks’ (street plays) will be organised to communicate the message in a culturally resonant manner, he said Furthermore, 12,500 informative wall paintings will be created across the state to highlight the benefits of CRM and the ill effects of paddy straw burning Khudian said as many as 3,333 village-level camps and 296 block-level camps will be organised to provide farmers with direct access to information, expert advice and government schemes on crop residue management (CRM), empowering them to adopt sustainable practices In addition, 148 ASHA workers will be mobilised to conduct door-to-door awareness campaigns in villages, personalising the message for families

U N E S C O tag for Durga Puja sparks fresh BJP-TMC clash

K OL KA TA: The tug -of-wa r be twe en the Trina mool Congress and the BJP found a fresh flashpoint when Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his Mann Ki Baat broadcast, claimed that the UNESCO heritage status for Bengal’s Durga Puja was secured through his government’s initiative The statement came in sharp contrast to chief minister Mamata Banerjee and Trinamool’s repeated assertions that the recognition was solely due to the state government In his address, Modi linked his government’s current efforts to have Chhath Puja included in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list with what he described as a similar initiative that brought Durga Puja of Calcutta into the same global fold three years ago The Mamata government has dismissed any role of the Centre in the process, crediting the achievement entirely to state-level efforts Party spokesperson Tanmay Ghosh called the Prime Minister’s claim a “blatant lie” He added: “Earlier it was his party that alleged Bengal’s government did not allow Durga Puja, then they accused the misuse of funds for the Puja carnival, and even protested the state government’s aid to Puja clubs Now he has resorted to another lie to mislead people This is most unfortunate ” Ghosh questioned the Prime Minister’s knowledge of the process, saying: “I would like to know from him whether he even knows the name of the person who actually researched the issue Such a blatant lie from the country’s Prime Minister is not just unexpected but shameful ”

NORTH-EAST

Zubeen’s family seeks probe into his death

The family of Assam's cultural icon Zubeen Garg has filed a complaint with the state CID over his death by drowning in Singapore, seeking a thorough probe into the incident Garg's uncle Manoj Kumar Borthakur said that they had sent the complaint to the CID through email We want a thorough probe into the circumstances leading to Zubeen's death," he said Garg's wife Garima and his sister Palme Borthakur are the other signatories to the complaint "We have sought an investigation into those present on the yacht trip during which the fatal incident occurred, organiser of North East India Festival Shyamkanu Mahanta and others who may be associated with the incident," another family member of Garg said Garg was in the Southeast Asian country to participate in the festival and had drowned while swimming without a life jacket in the sea on September 19 during the yacht trip, organised by members of the Singapore Assam Association

The singer's family also urged the police to take steps to secure the copyrights of the creative works of Garg A senior police officer said, We have received a complaint from Garg s family and are examining it He said the Special Investigation Team of CID is already probing the incidents surrounding the death of the singer-composer

GREEN NOD FOR ARUNACHAL HYDEL PROJECT NEAR LAC

An expert appraisal committee of the Union environment ministry has granted environmental clearance to the 2,220MW Oju hydroelectric project located in a strategically important region in Arunachal Pradesh s Upper Subansiri district bordering China One of the largest run-of river hydro projects in India, it will cost around £2 5bn and is likely to take at least five years to be completed It will be India’s third largest hydroelectric project to get environmental clearance after the 3,087MW Etalin project and 2,880MW Dibang project All three are in Arunachal Oju is the largest in a series of dams proposed on Subansiri river and has been in the pipeline for nearly 20 years It involves a 100 metre-high concrete gravity dam, over 14 km long head race tunnel and an underground powerhouse complex It has stirred concerns over its social and environmental consequences The entire 750 hectares required for the project is forest land and though only nine families are listed for displacement, the impact on local tribal communities, who constitute nearly 98 per cent of the population in the area, is expected to be significant

BPF SWEEPS BODOLAND TERRITORIAL COUNCIL POLLS

The Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) stormed back to power by winning 28 of 40 seats in the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) polls and ousting the ruling UPPL-BJP alliancethe BJP s first major electoral setback in Assam since 2016 The BJP and its ally, United People’s Party Liberal (UPPL), contested separately The UPPL bagged seven seats, the BJP five, while Congress and Independents drew a blank In 2020, the BPF had won 17 seats the BJP nine and the UPPL 12 Despite being the largest party then the BPF was kept out as the BJP and UPPL joined hands This time Hagrama Mohilary s party secured seven more than the majority mark Hagrama Mohilary is the BPF president and a former militant leader-turned-politician Four Muslim and two Adivasi winners on BPF tickets underlined its wider social base something BJP and UPPL failed to achieve The result is a wake-up call ahead of the 2026 Assembly polls

H-1B hurdles fuel India’s brain gain

Recently, the American dream

got A $100,000 visa price tag

In a stunning move, Donald Trump’s administration slapped the jawdropping fee on every new H-1B visa application, up from a modest $2,000–$5,000 For millions of young Indians who make up the backbone of the US tech talent pool, it landed like a thunderbolt, shattering career plans and family futures overnight.

The impact was immediate India’s $250-billion IT sector, long reliant on the H-1B pipeline to service global clients, found itself staring at an expensive dead-end Families fretted, students panicked, and professionals recalibrated their lives

The decision lays bare a familiar pattern in US–India relations under Trump: talk of friendship and trade, but always on Washington’s protectionist terms His erratic shifts toward India, warm one day and hostile the next, have become a major inconvenience

As Trump keeps swinging between favour and friction, New Delhi now appears ready to push back, taking a firmer stand for its citizens at home and abroad

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal dismissed the decision as evidence

that “America is a little afraid of our talent ” The fee spike, he warned, is not just protectionism but a humanitarian blow to Indian families

From brain drain to brain gain

Instead of bowing to the shock, New Delhi flipped the script Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government framed the crisis as a turning point, a catalyst for ‘brain gain’ under the ambitious Viksit Bharat 2047 roadmap

This vision aims to transform India into a fully developed, inclusive, and self-reliant nation by its 100th year of independence

The strategy is simple but bold: stop exporting talent, and start building irresistible opportunities at home That means slashing red tape, modernising taxes

through next-gen GST, and fuelling a $30-trillion economy with investments in digital infrastructure: UPI, Aadhaar, and the upcoming India AI Mission

At its heart, the plan is peoplefirst The PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana promises mass employment, while universities are being retooled to deliver world-class, affordable education The goal? To convince India’s brightest that success doesn’t require a one-way ticket to Silicon Valley Germany, Canada, and the UK are rushing to roll out red carpets for displaced Indian talent But Modi’s bet is long-term: channel the expertise of returnees into India’s booming startup ecosystem, R&D labs, and AI hubs The pitch is clear, don’t chase the

The new era of drone warfare

India’s drone industry is experiencing a decisive transformation, as the government shifts its defence focus from marquee fighter jets like Rafales and BrahMos missiles to next-generation unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) This shift comes as the global nature of war has been transformed by drones, demonstrated by recent events, including Russian drones invading Polish airspace With a burgeoning industry valued at £300mn and ambitious plans to make India a global drone hub, policymakers are accelerating both military and commercial drone adoption European leaders, reacting to regional instability, are now planning to create a ‘drone wall’ on Europe’s eastern flank with Ukraine’s help

fundamentally changing the power dynamics and economics of combat

Recent months have seen the announcement of the nation’s largest drone exercise yet, aiming to integrate new UAV technologies and counter-drone systems into national security planning These efforts underscore an urgent commitment to strengthening air defences and achieving technological self-sufficiency by 2035 with the indigenous 'Sudarshan Chakra' air defence network, envisioned as an Indian answer to Israel’s Iron Dome

Operation Sindoor marked a turning point after India’s confrontation with Pakistan, vividly displaying the effectiveness of homegrown and imported UAVs such as Israeli Herons equipped with Spike antitank missiles Ukraine’s defence has seen an unexpected shift, moving from Soviet-style kit to an army of software engineers innovating with hobby drones for surveillance, attacks, and defence These innovations dramatically extend flight range, increase attack capabilities, and allow for swarming, often avoiding electronic jamming through the use of AI

Ukraine’s recent Spiderweb operation, a meticulously planned, year-long covert mission saw Kyiv’s security service stage an audacious attack using dozens of explosiveladen drones against Russian airfields, hitting over 40 aircraft in Siberia, Murmansk, Moscow, and Ivanovo This historic raid highlighted the formidable reach and strategic depth drones now offer in modern conflict, demonstrating how cheap drones can destroy ultra-expensive ships and planes,

Alongside hardware advances, India has enacted sweeping regulations to manage this technological leap All drones over 250 grams must be registered on the Digital Sky Platform under a mandatory digital tracking protocol New rules define no-fly zones, emphasise airspace safety, and impose strict penalties for unregistered flights, unlicensed operation, or breaches of controlled airspace While these moves enable growth and innovation, they also highlight mounting challenges around enforcement and compliance, as the government balances national security interests with opportunities for industrial expansion Under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, India is boosting indigenous R&D for drones, testing AI-driven swarming technology, and investing in electronic jamming, radars, and directed energy weapons as countermeasures Notably, Ukraine produced over 2 million drones last year, and over half are now domestically sourced, showing a global race to innovate India must remain alert as drones have become the new-age weapon of warfare, while Turkey has emerged as a global leader in drone production

Recognising regional threats, particularly the Pakistan–Turkey drone partnership, India is redoubling its own anti-UAV efforts to secure critical infrastructure and border regions

As India advances its drone arsenal and mastery of unmanned warfare, the defence establishment acknowledges that true resilience lies in integration Surface-to-air missiles, manned patrols, electronic warfare units, and satellite surveillance complement UAV capabilities, ensuring a layered, adaptive approach to emerging threat

American Dream, build the Indian Dream

Standing tall against pressure

This confident pivot is part of a bigger story: India asserting sovereignty on the global stage Washington's attempts at 'coercive diplomacy' are not new but, from Trump’s tariff wars to pressure over Russian crude, New Delhi has refused to bend India’s Foreign Minister, S Jaishankar, has consistently rebuffed the pressure, stating unequivocally that India’s energy imports are dictated purely by national interest and market realities, not political mandates "What we buy from other countries that's our own business, and that has nothing to do with the IndianUS agenda,” he stated

By challenging India, Washington seems blind to the consequences of its own actions If the US wants to shut doors on Indian talent, it must remember this: America’s tech empire has been built, in no small part, by Indian hands From Sundar Pichai at Google to Satya Nadella at Microsoft, Indians have been the backbone of Silicon Valley’s rise Moves like Trump’s risk backfiring, shaking the very foundations of the industries the US prides itself on

Back in New Delhi, the message is different: what looks like a setback is being turned into strategy The Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed that 2,417 Indian nationals have been deported or repatriated from the US since January 2025 and the rising economy, projected to grow 9% this year, is ready to absorb this skilled pool

The timing couldn’t be better Sectors perfectly aligned with returnees’ expertise are booming; IT software and services are forecast to jump 15%, driven by surging demand in AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity Government and industry alike are moving quickly to integrate this talent, ensuring opportunities match their expertise and ambition

India and UAE’s strategic axis of growth and trust

Indiaand the UAE share a deeply strategic and multi-dimensional partnership, anchored in strong bilateral trade, defence cooperation, and people-to-people connections. The United Arab Emirates is one of India’s largest trading partners and a key energy supplier, while India ranks as the UAE’s second largest trading partner and the leading source of skilled professionals

In 2025, the 13th India-UAE Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC) meeting marked a significant step forward, expanding military ties, joint training, and defence technology collaboration These developments speak to the breadth and maturity of the relationship, which has grown from commercial ties into a comprehensive strategic partnership covering security, commerce, education, and culture

Bilateral non-oil trade between the two countries reached approximately $38 billion in the first half of 2025, a 34% rise over 2024, with an ambitious goal to double this figure to $100 billion within three to four years UAE investments in India exceeded $23 billion in 2024, making the UAE the seventh largest investor in India The countries collaborate actively on infrastructure projects, stock market investments, and joint initiatives in third countries India’s Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the UAE, signed in 2022, has further bolstered trade facilitation and market access

Cultural and religious ties underpin this economic strength In February 2024, Prime

Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, the first Hindu temple in the Middle East symbolising deep mutual respect and religious acceptance Educational links are growing, with plans to establish an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) campus in Abu Dhabi and expansions of Indian management institutes in the UAE Financial integration advances through the creation of a Local Currency Settlement System and cross-linking of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with the UAE’s AANI, alongside interoperability between domestic card schemes RuPay and JAYWAN Defence cooperation is robust with joint naval drills and exploration of artificial intelligence technologies in defence, ensuring mutual security interests in the region Strategically, India and the UAE engage closely within platforms such as Brics, I2U2, and trilateral groups with France, while pushing forward regional infrastructure projects like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) What is also interesting about the friendship between the two countries is that, contrary to misconceptions that view India’s relations with Islamic countries skeptically, the UAE stands as India’s most trusted ally in the Gulf This partnership exemplifies how a modern, progressive Islamic state can foster a thriving, long-term strategic and economic alliance with India, grounded in mutual respect, shared prosperity, and forward-looking cooperation

BOOK REVIEW

Redefining success: Stories of Indians who did it their own way

Performative leadership is all too easy,

and in the digital age, success stories are half-truth or pure fiction. In this hollow chaos, the real stories often get drowned. Maneesh Media, a boutique publishing house, cuts through this noise to present its first fully in-house production, “The Rise of The Icons: A Collection of Indian Excellence”.

This compelling compendium promises to be a refreshing perspective on what it takes to achieve true success. It profiles ten extraordinary individuals of Indian origin, each navigating vastly different geographies and industries, yet united by a shared legacy of perseverance, purpose, and their love for India.

The book opens with a foreword by Dr Binod Chaudhary, the Nepalese business magnate and parliamentarian, who hails the publication as a "symphony of diverse voices" and a "repository of wisdom". The language, he says, is "fast-paced and charming," a style that compels the reader to stay on the page, and—he is right.

The book takes storytelling that is not your conventional linear narrative. It treats success, not just as a statistical notch, but more as a journey – painstaking, riddled with setbacks, often demotivating. These backstories may not make for a good movie script, nor do their protagonists become celebrities. Their influence is far-reaching. It is transformative. In their quiet struggle and the steady rise, readers can find their own stories, ready to be told.

For every popular Elon Musk, there is Bhupeshchandra Narottambhai Patel. A Houston-based financial consultant, philanthropist, and octogenarian entrepreneur, his story spans continents. Born in colonial-era Nairobi, schooled barefoot in rural Gujarat, and launched a mortgage firm at 65. “It’s a cocktail of the American spirit and Indian values,” he reflects. Then there are Kuldeep Singh Buttar, once a security guard, built a thriving business to honour his father’s dreams and Mamta Mahajan, widowed young, turned loss into service through the Art of Living in Kenya.

There are no trumpets and fanfare celebrating personal triumph. There are no

sanitised narratives, scrubbed free of flaws. The book takes a 360 degree approach to give the readers a glimpse into how success is also about public and community service. Take for instance, CB Patel, a media pioneer in London, who is both a cultural anchor and advocate, building bridges between communities while challenging systems of inequality. His longstanding rapport with Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscores a legacy shaped not just by success, but by influence and integrity.

Each of the ten profiles featured in the book is a deeply intimate telling of lives that have seen missed exams, failed ventures, and long-delayed dreams. There is an emotionally raw honesty that breaks through the façade to have the reader introspect on his definition and journey of success. Is it like Dipak Dasgupta, who is deftly navigating international climate negotiations? Or perhaps it mirrors that of Navneet Singh Chugh, a lawyer-accountant championing the Indian-American cause?

A book that inspires, but does not intimidate, The Rise of the Icons uses the minimalist school of design to ensure that the stories remain the focus. It keeps the tone elegant without making it elitist. It is a book for the dreamers, the doers, and for everyone who wants to redefine success and reimagine life. Read the book to realise your path in life.

Dr Arun and Anjana Patel CT scan centre opened at Charusat Hospital

An advanced CT scan centre has been opened at Charusat Hospital following a donation of £315,000 from US-based philanthropists and natives of Changa, Dr Arun Dahyabhai Patel and Dr Anjana Arun Patel. This facility brings to India, for the very first time, an advanced cardiac CT scanner system designed for the timely diagnosis of heart diseases. Dr Arun and Anjana were honoured with the Daan Bhaskar award for their contributions.

The inauguration ceremony was presided over by Surendrabhai Patel, President of Kelavani Mandal, Charusat. Among those present were Kiranbhai Patel (president, Matru Sanstha), Vipulbhai Patel (president, CHRF), Dr MC Patel (secretary, Kelavani Mandal & CHRF), CA Patel (vice-president, Kelavani Mandal), Virendrabhai Patel (trustee), Madhuben Patel (joint secretary), Girishbhai B

Patel (joint secretary of Kelavani Mandal), Girishbhai C Patel (treasurer), principal RV Patel, Dr Atul Patel (Provost, Charusat university), trustees, office bearers, saints from Anupam Mission, community leaders and well-wishers.

The Daan Bhaskar award recognises significant contributions to education, healthcare, and social initiatives. So far, more than

Saraswati Samman for Bhadreshdas Swami of BAPS

Mahamahopadhyaya Bhadreshdas Swami, a renowned Sanskrit scholar and senior Swami of the BAPS, was conferred the Saraswati Samman 2024 by the K. K. Birla Foundation. Swami Bhadreshdasji became the first recipient of this award in Sanskrit in 22 years.

The event jointly organized by BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha and the K K Birla Foundation was graced by distinguished guests, including governor Acharya Devvrat; Arjunkumar Sikri, retired judge of the Supreme Court and chairman of the award selection committee; Dr Suresh Rituparna, director of Birla Foundation; Pujya Anandswarup Swamiji, a senior swami of BAPS, Pujya Brahmavihari Swami; head of BAPS Mandir Abu Dhabi and many others. Ahmedabad Mayor Pratibhaben Jain was also present at the event. Arjunkumar Sikri presented the award to Bhadreshdas Swami.

Bhadreshdas Swamiji humbly accepted the honour, attributing it to the blessings of his gurus and the timeless wisdom of Indian scriptures and said, “A restless young boy once came into the company of a saint. The saint inspired him to learn Sanskrit and began teaching him personally - even as the boy’s restlessness continued. Complaints about the boy

were frequent, and the saint, too, had to occasionally discipline him. Yet the saint nurtured him patiently, guiding him in Sanskrit and later encouraging him to write a bhāshya (commentary).

Today, that very boy is being honoured in the presence of India’s Governor and a retired Supreme Court Justice.

That saint was none other than Pramukh Swami Maharaj. And this honour is truly a tribute to the tireless efforts and blessings of both Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj.

This recognition belongs to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, to the vision of

to the guidance of

Maharaj, and to the rich philosophical tradition of India. It is not merely an award - it is a sacred responsibility.”

Pujya Brahmavihari Swami, the head swami of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, stated, “Over the past 33 years, this prestigious Saraswati Samman has been awarded to many distinguished individuals, but for the very first time, it has been conferred upon a sadhu.

Murti Pratishtha Mahotsav at Jodhpur Swaminarayan Mandir

The grand inauguration ceremony of BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Jodhpur, was held recently. The ceremony marked the culmination of the threeday Murti-Pratishtha Mahotsav, drawing immense crowds of devotees from Jodhpur and surrounding regions.

2,000 donors worldwide have contributed over £20mn to the mission of Charusat and Kelavani Mandal. Among them, 53 distinguished donors have been honoured with this award.

The CT scanner is capable of coronary artery calcium scoring and CT Angiograms. The system will help in early detection of blockages and prevent heart attacks.

During the event, Pujya Adarshjivandas Swami shared the historical narrative of the mandir’s construction, while Pujya Munivatsaldas Swami delivered an inspiring address on how the mandir will serve as a center of knowledge. Sadguru Viveksagardas Swami spoke about the sacred flow of devotion emanating from the mandir, and Pujya Brahmaviharidas Swami emphasized the transformative service projects being undertaken through such mandirs.

The ceremony was graced by the presence by railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and union minister of culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat as chief guests. Vaishnaw praised BAPS Sanstha for its impactful

Get organised, live longer

Being organised, hardworking, and helpful to others doesn’t just make life smoother, it could also help you live longer.

Researchers have examined which personality traits are linked to longevity, identifying key characteristics associated with a lower risk of early death The strongest link was found among people classified as “active” in personality questionnaires, reflecting the well-known benefits of regular exercise

Close behind were those considered “lively,” suggesting that extroverted, socially engaged individuals enjoy health advantages Other traits positively associated with longevity included being organised, responsible, hardworking, thorough, conscientious, and helpful or agreeable

The international study, led by the University of Edinburgh and supported by research institutes in France, the US, and Ireland, followed over 22,000 middle-aged participants for six to 28 years, tracking their health outcomes

Conversely, participants who scored high for “neuroticism” were found to have a greater risk of premature death, according to the study, published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research The findings highlight that lifestyle and personality are intertwined and that cultivating positive traits may not only improve your day-to-day life but also your long-term health

UKHSA urges early vaccinations

Recent surveillance data shows COVID-19 positivity has climbed from 7 6% to 8 4% in a week, while hospitalisations have increased from 2 00 to 2 73 per 100,000 Flu and COVID-19 cases have also been steadily rising over several weeks

UKHSA stresses the importance of taking up the free NHS vaccination offer as soon as eligible Pregnant women and millions of children have already received their doses, with appointments open to most eligible groups since 1 October Vaccination remains the best protection against respiratory viruses, and the NHS online booking system makes scheduling easy For the first time this year, toddlers can receive the flu vaccine as a nasal spray at community pharmacies To boost uptake, the government has launched the “Stay Strong Get Vaccinated” campaign, developed by the Department of Health and Social Care, UKHSA, and NHS England UKHSA also reports a sharp rise in rhinovirus, the virus that causes the common cold, likely linked to schools reopening Positivity rates jumped to 14 8% from 10 9% the previous week

NHS launches online hospital

The NHS is launching a revolutionary “online hospital”, NHS Online, in a major reform of healthcare delivery in England

Unlike traditional hospitals, NHS Online will have no physical site, connecting patients digitally to specialist clinicians across the country The service is set to roll out from 2027 Patients will be triaged quickly through the NHS App, allowing faster access to specialists and the ability to book scans, tests, or procedures at Community Diagnostic Centres at convenient times GP appointments may include referrals to NHS Online, enabling patients to access remote consultations without leaving home Prescriptions and condition management guidance can also be tracked digitally

NHS Online aims to reduce waiting times significantly, delivering up to 8 5 million appointments in its first three years, four times more than an average NHS trust, while giving patients more control over their care Initially focused on treatment areas with the longest waits, the service will expand as it proves clinically safe

Gut instincts matter

Your gut bacteria follow a circadian rhythm, meaning their activity rises and falls in a predictable 24-hour cycle, much like our own sleep-wake patterns These microbial fluctuations influence digestion, nutrient absorption, and even hormone production Disruptions to this rhythm, caused by late-night eating, irregular meal times, shift work, or poor sleep, can upset the balance of gut bacteria, potentially leading to digestive issues, weight gain, or metabolic problems. Maintaining regular sleep and meal schedules helps keep your gut microbiome in sync

New action plan to increase inclusion in research and address health inequalities

18Sept

2025 - Health and Care

Research Wales launched a new three-year action plan to increase diversity and inclusion in health and social care research in Wales.

The plan was launched by the Chief Medical Officer for Wales, Professor Isabel Oliver, at a special event at the Senedd, where a new partnership between Health and Care Research Wales and Oxford University’s Centre for Research Equity (CfRE) will also be announced

Healthcare inequalities are a continuing challenge in Wales Factors such as ethnicity, disability, age and deprivation can all influence health, even before people become unwell

When sections of society are overlooked, healthcare inequalities worsen Lack of inclusivity can also seriously diminish trust in health and care systems, making future recruitment and engagement in research even more challenging

The importance of trust is something that public involvement member Praveena Pemmasani, 23, from Cardiff, also emphasises Praveena is in her final year studying Medicine at Cardiff University and has for the last six years helped advise researchers on the most effective ways to plan, deliver and interpret their studies as part of a public involvement group for young people aged 14 to 25

Prof essor Is abel Oliver, Chief Medic al Of ficer f or Wales, said,

Women“Research is essential to help guide our efforts to improve and protect the health of the people of Wales That research needs to reflect the populations most affected by the issues being researched to help us tackle the large gaps between those with the best and worst health and wellbeing which still persist and are in some cases are widening ” Professor Mahendra Patel, founding direc tor and Inclusion and Diversity l ead, Cf RE, said,

“Overlooking certain groups whether due to ethnicity, disability, age, rurality, or any other factor risks deepening inequalities and producing biased guidance Treatments may be less effective, or carry unexpected side

effects, for underrepresented populations

“Inclusive research is better research it leads to evidence that applies to all It builds fairer systems and gives us the knowledge to understand and meet the health and care needs of the communities we serve ” Carys Thomas, Head of Policy at the Science, Research and Evidence Division, Welsh Government, said, “It is vital that everyone in Wales has a voice and opportunity to contribute to research We’re grateful to our colleagues at the CfRE, and also our vibrant research infrastructure across Wales for their commitment to helping make Wales a leader in research inclusivity, and healthier nation overall ”

Long Covid linked to heavier periods

with long Covid face heavier periods and higher risk of iron deficiency, study finds

Women suffering from long Covid are more likely to experience heavier, longer and more irregular periods, leaving them at greater risk of iron deficiency, researchers have warned

A UK survey of more than 12,000 women revealed that those with long Covid reported heavier bleeding, longer cycles and more frequent bleeding between periods than women who had recovered from the virus or never tested positive The research also found that long Covid symptoms often worsened in the days leading up to menstruation and during periods, suggesting a strong hormonal link

Blood tests from a smaller group of participants indicated high levels of inflam-

mation in the womb lining and raised concentrations of the hormone dihydrotestosterone, both of which may drive heavy bleeding Crucially, researchers found no evidence that ovarian function was impaired

Heavier menstrual bleeding increases the likelihood of iron deficiency, a condition already widespread among women of child-bearing age Its symptoms including fatigue, breathlessness and dizziness overlap with common complaints of long Covid, compounding the health burden for affected women Dr Jacqueline Maybin of the University of Edinburgh, who led the research, said: “Our hope is that this will allow us to develop really specific treatments for women with long Covid who are suffering with menstrual disturbance It may also lead

to female-specific treatments for long Covid itself ” Globally, an estimated 400 million people are living with or recovering from long Covid In England alone, almost 2 million people report ongoing symptoms more than four weeks after infection Dr Viki Male, a reproductive immunology specialist at Imperial College London, said the results

point to a clear biological explanation: “Inflammation in the uterus is associated with heavy menstrual bleeding, so this could be the link between long Covid and prolonged or heavy periods ” She added that existing antiinflammatory drugs for heavy periods might also help women experiencing the symptom as part of long Covid

Avocados and potassium-rich foods may cut risk of heart disease deaths

Apotassium-rich diet, featuring foods such as avocados, bananas and cabbage, could lower the risk of dying from heart disease by as much as a quarter, new research suggests

Findings presented at the European Society of Cardiology congress in Madrid show that higher potassium intake is linked to a 24 per cent reduction in hospital admissions for heart failure and irregular heartbeat Researchers involved in the Potcast trial

said the benefits may extend beyond patients with existing heart disease, adding that such a diet “ may not only benefit patients with heart diseases but probably all of us ”

Low potassium levels in the blood are associated with higher risks of heart failure and abnormal heart rhythms In the trial, scientists at C o p e n h a g e n University Hospital studied 1,200 patients at risk of ventricular arrhythmias Half were given advice on increasing potassium intake through diet and supplements, with some also receiving mineralocorticoid receptor antag-

onist therapy, a treatment for heart failure Those who boosted their potassium intake increased their blood potassium levels from below 4 3 mmol/l to 4 5 mmol/l and showed improved outcomes Only 6 7 per cent of patients on a potassiumrich diet required hospital treatment for irregular heartbeat, compared with 10 7 per cent in the control group Similarly, 3 5 per cent of patients experienced heart failure, compared with 5 5 per cent of those not on the enhanced diet

Anupam Kher says Shah Rukh Khan went ‘unrecognised’ for years

Actor Anupam Kher expressed his delight at Shah Rukh Khan winning his first National Film Award for Best Actor for Jawan He noted that Shah Rukh “went unrecognised” for many iconic performances, including Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, and said he should have won for Swades in 2004.

“I’m very happy for him, and personally glad he finally received it after 40 years You can imagine his disappointment over the years, so it’s wonderful that he’s finally been recognised,” Anupam added

Anupam Kher said Shah Rukh Khan’s win also reflects recognition of mainstream cinema at the National Awards “It’s great to see that you don’t need to do a niche film to be honoured I was thrilled to see Karan Johar, Rani Mukerji, and Shah Rukh Khan together it was a star-studded National Award this year, ” he added

Anupam has collaborated with Shah Rukh on several films, including ‘Zamaana Deewana’, ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’, ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’, ‘Mohabbatein’, ‘Veer-Zaara’, and ‘Paheli’

At the 71st National Film Awards, President Droupadi Murmu honoured Shah Rukh for his performance in Jawan He shared the Best Actor award with Vikrant Massey, recognised for 12th Fail

Bobby Deol opens up on missing out on ‘Jab We Met’

project he had helped set up

In a recent interview with Raj Shamani, he revealed that after watching a rough cut of Imtiaz Ali’s ‘Socha Na Tha’, he was determined to work with the director Originally titled ‘Geet’, ‘Jab We Met’ was written by Imtiaz, but the role eventually went to Shahid Kapoor

Bobby said, “I was heartbroken I wasn’t getting work and was doing typical Bollywood films I have nothing against Imtiaz he’s incredibly talented At that time, he was probably insecure and had to make choices But seeing the rough cut of ‘Socha Na Tha’ bowled me over, and I told him I wanted to work with him no matter what ”

Bobby had spoken about the fallout in a 2017 HuffPost interview, recalling how devastated he felt “I was heartbroken, but I have no hard feelings He’s a great director, and we ’ re still friends I always tell him: ‘Imtiaz, I won’t watch any of your films until you make one with me, that’ll be your best film,’” he said

In a 2020 interview, Kareena said she hadn’t expected much from ‘Jab We Met’, focusing instead on the glamorous ‘Tashan’ “I was just mouthing lines It was fun, but I didn’t think it would change my life,” she said

Imtiaz Ali blamed delays on Bobby in The Lallantop interview, saying he waited years for him while ‘Socha Na Tha’ released, but the financial strain forced him to part ways: “Let’s shake hands and not make this film together,” he said

Amrita Rao shares heartwarming anecdotes from ‘Main Hoon Na’

Farah Khan’s ‘Main Hoon Na’ remains a beloved classic. In a recent chat, Amrita Rao, who played a key role, reminisced about working with Shah Rukh Khan and Sushmita Sen, sharing anecdotes about Shah Rukh’s advice and Sushmita’s thoughtful compliments On Ranveer Allahbad YouTube channel, Amrita how Shah Rukh, juggling Hoon Na’ and ‘Kal Ho Na an hour from his lunch b meet her and her mother her, “I have met many ne but you have the quality o being a superstar 200 films will come, but we have to do only two films and that has been my criteria for choosing work ”

Amrita added that Shah Rukh’s first take was often his best, rarely giving a second

“He was funny, focused, and very much into character He drew energy from newcomers, and every first take was perfect That’s what we learned from him,” she said Amrita recalled meeting Sushmita Sen at a party before shooting, where she was struck by h ss ’ s “art of complimenting”

“After the party, Sushmita ed to drop me home, and when eached, she said, ‘I will come me ’ It was 2 a m , and I had Miss verse sitting on my couch She my mom, ‘At the party, there re all these girls, and there was mrita When my daughter Renee rows up, I want her to be like you ’ What a compliment from someone I looked up to,”

Amrita said She added, “Sushmita is rare secure, positive, and encouraging She sn’t insecure about another coctress and constantly shares nd words I don’t meet women ke her often ”

Saif Ali Khan reflects on near-death experience during home attack

Earlier this year, Saif Ali Khan faced a terrifying home invasion when an intruder entered his apartment at night

During the scuffle, Saif jumped in to protect his children, Taimur (8) and Jeh (4), but was stabbed in the back, narrowly avoiding paralysis In a recent interview, he reflected on the ordeal and the thoughts that ran through his mind during the near-death experience

In an Esquire India interview, Saif Ali Khan called surviving a recent home invasion “nothing short of miraculous ” He recalled, “There’s this crazy sense of how lucky one is To walk away relatively unscathed is incredible ” Kareena Kapoor was at home while he confronted the intruder who entered through his younger son Jeh’s bedroom

Reflecting on the ordeal, Saif said, “Life has been colourful and privileged not just in money, but experiences: Winchester, travels with loved ones, the wine, my wife, my children ” On the qualities he hopes for his children, he added, “Calmness, patience, discipline, balance You have to work hard for everything to be in its right place ”

In January, an intruder broke into Saif Ali Khan’s home after midnight The nanny spotted him near Jeh’s bed and screamed for help Saif confronted the intruder and was attacked, sustaining a stab wound in his back, while the nanny was also injured After the attacker fled, Saif rushed to the hospital in an auto rickshaw and underwent emergency surgery He has since recovered

Vivek Oberoi shares how perspective helped him through tough times

Vivek

Oberoi rose to fame overnight with his debut ‘Company’ and cemented his stardom with ‘Saathiya’, films still considered cult classics

However, his career faced turbulence after a 2003 press conference in which he alleged threats from Salman Khan following his relationship with Aishwariya Rai, creating shockwaves in the industry. He struggled for years but has since established himself as a successful entrepreneur alongside acting.

Reflecting on the controversy in a chat with Prakhar Gupta, Vivek, who embraces spirituality, said, “When I see the problems of my kids, I laugh because their problems aren’t even problems ”

Vivek Oberoi reflected on perspective and faith, saying that just as a parent laughs at a child’s small problems, God views our troubles as chances to make us stronger “What once felt big: fear, bitterness, scarslater seems funny and immature,” he said

On overcoming negativity, he added, “I’ve forgotten what I felt, but moving on from my mother’s tears or my father’s worry was hard Eventually, you have to let go, or your vibration turns negative ”

Recalling his career boycott and personal chaos, Vivek said, “It was obvious to feel depressed I even cried in my mother’s lap like a mama ’ s boy I asked, ‘Why me?’ often She reminded me, ‘Did you ever ask that when you were winning awards, making films, and being followed by fans?’

Kajol and Rani Mukerji

reunite at family’s

D U R G A P U J A

CousinsKajol and Rani Mukerji came together to inaugurate their family’s annual Durga Puja celebrations at the North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja

The 2025 festivities commenced on Panchami with the unveiling of Maa Durga’s idol and a special tribute to the Pashupatinath Temple, marking an auspicious start to the much-celebrated occasion

Held in Mumbai, the event marked the start of one of the city’s oldest and most popular Durga Puja celebrations This year carried added emotional weight for filmmaker Ayan Mukerji, as it was his first Puja without his father, Deb Mukherjee, a key organiser of the festivities, who passed away earlier this year

The ceremony saw several members of the Mukerji family in attendance, including Tanishaa, Sharbani, and Samrat Mukherji In a touching moment, sisters Kajol, Rani, and Tanishaa were seen embracing each other, visibly moved by the occasion Kajol also shared a heartfelt hug with Ayan before joining him for photographs The family celebrated in traditional style, dressed in vibrant ethnic wear Kajol wore a silk saree paired with a red blouse, while Rani looked elegant in a white saree with a black and red floral border Ayan chose a classic white kurta-pyjama for the occasion

Actor Ranbir Kapoor, who recently turned 43, joined the Mukerji family’s Durga Puja celebrations to support his close friend, filmmaker Ayan Mukerji He was seen wearing a deep blue kurta with white pyjamas Television actress Sumona Chakravarti, known for her popular Hindi TV roles, and veteran actress Jaya Bachchan were also present at the festivities

Rani Mukerji reflects on ‘Black’ after winning first national award

Bollywood

TV Listing

18:30 Rangai Jaane Rangma

19:00 Shyam Dhoon Lagi Re

actor Rani Mukerji said her National Award feels even more special as she won it alongside longtime friend and former co-star Shah Rukh Khan

Speaking at the India Today Conclave Mumbai 2025 session, ‘Queen of Reinvention: National

Award to Motherhood, Winning it All’, she said, “The award brings happiness to my fans, well-wishers, friends, and family My focus has always been to work hard and not disappoint my audience Winning in the same year as Shah Rukh made it even more special ”

Rani also thanked filmmaker Karan Johar, saying, “I’m eternally grateful for being chosen as Tina a character that has stayed with me for three decades People calling it a ‘Rahul and Tina’ moment after Shah Rukh and I won the award shows how much they love the characters It’s very sweet ”

Rani Mukerji, who played Tina opposite Shah Rukh Khan in Karan Johar’s 1998 romantic comedy, reflected on her 2005 film Black: “I gave my all to ‘Black’ There was talk I’d win the National Award, and when I didn’t, I realised even your best work may not always be recognised My father and Sanjay Leela Bhansali were heartbroken too ”

She dedicated her first National Award to her late father, Ram Mukherjee “I’m truly overwhelmed This honour means the world, and I dedicate it to my father, whose blessing and my mother’s strength guided me through Mrs Chatterjee,” Rani said She won Best Actress for her role in the 2023 legal drama ‘Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway’

MON 05 OCT - FRI 10 OCT 2025

09:00 Deshi Beats

18:00 Rasoi Show

19:00 Shyam Dhoon Lagi Re

19:30 Radha Krishna

20:00 Kanku

20:30 COLORS GUJARATI RANGRATRI

SATURDAY 11 OCT 2025

09:00 Deshi Beats

17:30 Rasoi Show

MON 05 OCT - FRI 10 OCT 2025

17:00 Shani-Karmfal Daata

17:30 Sau Dahda Sasuna

18:00 Silsila Badalte Rishton Ka S-1

18:30 BALIKA VADHU SEASON 1

19:30 RAMACHARI

20:00 Anmol Bandhan

20:30 Madhubala

21:00 Comedy Nights with Kapil

22:30 BIGG BOSS 19

SATURDAY 11 OCT 2025

17:00 Shani-Karmfal Daata

19:30 Radha Krishna

20:00 Kanku

20:30 Moti Baa Ni Nani Vahu

21:00 Dil Dangal

21:30 KAHI DE NE PREM CHHE! – PREM NU PRATIK

22:30 Radha Krishna

SUNDAY 12 OCT 2025

09:00 Deshi Beats

11:00 Radha Krishna

13:00 Rangai Jaane Rangma

14:30 Kanku

17:30 Shyam Dhoon Lagi Re

19:30 Radha Krishna

22:00 Moti Baa Ni Nani Vahu

17:30 Sau Dahda Sasuna

18:00 Silsila Badalte Rishton Ka S-1

18:30 BALIKA VADHU SEASON 1

19:30 RAMACHARI

20:00 Dance Deewane Superhits

20:30 Madhubala

21:00 Comedy Nights with Kapil

22:30 BIGG BOSS 19

SUNDAY 12 OCT 2025

17:00 Shani-Karmfal Daata

17:30 Sau Dahda Sasuna

18:00 Silsila Badalte Rishton Ka S-1

18:30 BALIKA VADHU SEASON 1

19:30 RAMACHARI

20:00 Dance Deewane Superhits

20:30 Madhubala

21:00 Comedy Nights with Kapil

22:30 BIGG BOSS 19

Rishab Shetty on Mohanlal:

“Feels like meeting someone from home”

During the Kochi promotions of ‘Kantara Chapter 1’, Rishab Shetty was asked about Malayalam superstar Mohanlal

He said, “When I see Lalettan, it feels like meeting someone from my own hometown, like seeing my uncle That’s the emotional connection I have with him ” Rishab added that he watches all of Mohanlal’s films and holds the Dadasaheb Phalke Award winner close to his heart

Rishab Shetty fondly recalled the moment Mohanlal received the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, saying, “I was so happy when he won I immediately asked my social media team to share a congratulatory post, using a photo from when I met him at Kollur Mookambika ” He added that while Dr Rajkumar remains his alltime favourite in Kannada cinema, in Malayalam it’s Lalettan who feels “like one of our own ” Rishab is now gearing up for the release of ‘Kantara Chapter 1 ’ , set to hit theatres on October 2 Promising a grand mix of myth, action, and thrill, the film also has Malayali fans excited with the addition of actor Jayaram in a key role, as revealed in the recently released trailer

Nagarjuna daughter-i law Sobhit

“It’s like having a daughter

I December last year, actor Naga

Chaitanya married Sobhita Dhulipala in a private ceremony in Hyderabad.

Nagarjuna, who had previously revealed how he indirectly played cupid, spoke warmly about his bond with his daughter-inlaw in an interview with Times of India

“She’s just fantastic We about books and music, and she wants to grow a garden in Naga’s house I love gardening too, so we talk a lot about it It’s like having a daughter at home

film industry

Now we have two daughters Zainab (Akhil’s wife) and Sobhita,” he said

N a g a r j

t a ’ s work even before she joined the family, impressed by her performance in the 2018 film Goodachari and calling her to share his appreciation During a meeting at his home, Chaitanya happened to walk in, m

Nagarjuna described Sobhita as a “brilliant actress” and praised her journey from Vizag to establishing herself in the

Young composer Sai Abhyankkar is set to make his Malayalam cinema debut with the sports action drama ‘Balti’, directed by Unni Sivalingam and starring Shane Nigam

After dating since 2022, haitanya and Sobhita married in December 2024 at A n n a p u r n a S t u d i o s , Hyderabad, a venue of deep significance for the Akkineni family, founded by Chaitanya’s grandf a t h

Akkineni Nageswara Rao

The wedding was an intiaffair with close friends and family, including Ram Charan, C h i r

Nagarjuna shared photos on X, writing, “Watching Sobhita and Chay begin this beautiful chapter together has been very special Congratulations to my beloved C h

, Sobhita you ’ ve already brought so much happiness into our lives ” On the work front, Nagarjuna was

despite mixed reviews He will next star in director Ra Karthik’s upcoming actionfamily drama, tentatively titled KING100

Actor Sivakarthikeyan credits father’s struggles for his educational drive

Sivakarthikeyan attended a Tamil Nadu government event on educational development, calling it a refreshing change from his usual filmrelated gatherings He thanked Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin for the invitation and noted that every word and idea shared at the forum carried significant meaning

The 20-year-old has made headlines for reportedly receiving over 2 crore (£1 67 mn) for the film, the highest fee ever paid to a music director in Malayalam cinema, according to producer Santosh T Kuruvilla in an interview with Club FM

The producer explained why they were confident investing heavily in a newcomer Santosh T Kuruvilla said Sai has proven popularity and a strong connection with audiences “It’s about instinct you can sense if someone can deliver Seeing two to three crore views on his music albums convinced me, ” he said, noting that the first single from ‘Balti’ already demonstrates this reach “‘Jaalakkari’ has gone viral in Tamil Nadu, especially on reels ” Sai Abhyankkar first rose to fame with his hit track ‘Katchi Sera’, which became one of the most sought-after compositions in South India

‘Balti’ also marks a milestone for Shane Nigam, as it is his 25th film Scheduled for release on September 26, the film will feature a unique bilingual format: 60% Malayalam and 40% Tamil for Kerala audiences, and fully in Tamil for viewers in Tamil Nadu Dubbed versions in Telugu and Kannada will release on October 9, with a Hindi version also in the works

highlighted education as life’s greatest wealth, quoting Thiruvalluvar’s words that true riches come from learning He recalled how his father’s struggles

inspired both him and his sister to pursue higher studies, noting that an educated generation paves the way for a stronger next one

With a smile, he admitted that although he holds an MBA, his career in cinema took a very different turn Yet, he said his education remains his biggest source of confidence: “Even if I step away from films someday, I know I can build a living through the power of my studies ” He urged young people to learn not just for grades, but to gain knowledge and resilience for life

Sivakarthikeyan concluded with an

future and help them achieve more than they imagine “I could do it, you can do even more, ” he said, sparking

expressed confidence that the government’s ongoing projects will uplift not just one generation but many to come 20-year-old Sai Abhyankkar

Diljit Dosanjh earns first international Emmy nomination

Singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh has expressed excitement after receiving his first-ever nomination for the 2025 International Emmy Awards The nominations were announced by the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences

Diljit Dosanjh has been nominated for Best Performance by an Actor at the 2025 International Emmy Awards for his role in Netflix’s biographical drama Amar Singh Chamkila, directed by Imtiaz Ali Sharing the news on Instagram, Diljit credited Imtiaz Ali and tagged Netflix India

He will compete against David Mitchell (Ludwig), Oriol Pla (Yo, Adicto/I, Addict), and Diego Vasquez (One Hundred Years of Solitude) Amar Singh Chamkila is also nominated for Best TV Movie/MiniSeries, giving the team double reason to celebrate

Diljit’s Amar Singh Chamkila co-star Parineeti Chopra praised him and director Imtiaz Ali for the Emmy nomination On Instagram, she wrote, “Proud of my team Chamkila,” tagging both Diljit and Imtiaz

Directed by Imtiaz Ali, the film chronicles the life of Punjab’s iconic folk singer Amar Singh Chamkila, known as the Elvis of Punjab Chamkila gained fame in the 1980s for his bold songs and energetic performances but was tragically killed with his wife Amarjot Kaur in 1988 at age 27 Released on Netflix in April 2024, the film was written by Imtiaz and Sajid Ali

Indian content has been steadily gaining recognition at the Emmys in recent years Netflix’s Delhi Crime won Best Drama Series in 2020, and comedian Vir Das earned an Emmy in 2021 for his Netflix special Vir Das: For India

I N D I E A R T I S T T A B A C H A K E

B L E N D S C U L T U R E A N D S O U N D

Subhasini Naicker

An Indian indie musician, Nyishi finger-style guitarist, and multilingual singersongwriter, Taba Chake is celebrated for tracks like ‘A Chalein’, ‘Shaayad’, and ‘W With Me’ from his album Bombay Dreams

Writing in Nyishi, Hindi, Assamese, and English, he is the first artist from Arunachal Pradesh to release Nyishi-language songs on streaming platforms His music blends folk, indie, and contemporary influences In 2024, he composed fiv songs for Shoojit Sircar’s f I Want To Talk, st Abhishek Bachchan an J y Lever Recently, he was appointed Honorary Brand Ambassador for the Department of Art & Culture, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, and is currently touring the UK

and creativity I’m really looking forward to meeting aspiring musicians in London If my stories or experiences can inspire someone to create their own music, there’s no better feeling than

On connecting with local South ian communities and indie rtists abroad, he added, “No matter your field, it’s always valuable to connect with your community wherever you go That support and sense of belonging are powerful; it gives you confidence and reminds you that you ’ re not alone It also helps build meaningful relationships and collaborations ”

Speaking to Asian Voice about his UK tour and performing for an international audience, Taba said, “Performing abroad has been a dream of mine since I first picked up my instrument Touring internationally is something I’ve always worked toward, and I’m honestly overwhelmed and excited Knowing that shows in Manchester, London, and Winchester are already sold out, and seeing messages asking for more seats, is truly incredible ”

Speaking about hosting an intimate music workshop in London, Taba said, “I haven’t done many songwriting workshops before, but thi will be relaxed more like a casual chat abou

Reflecting on his Arunachali oots, Taba explained, “I come m a tribal background, where I up listening to priests chanting for days during major ceremonies The rhythms and melodies stayed with me At the same time, Bollywood music was always playing in the background on cassette tapes, thanks to my uncle Later, I explored metal and rock before moving into songwriting, partly due to the challenges of managing metal bands Now, when I write songs, being near mountains and rivers is incredibly inspiring, the natural beauty always finds its way into my music ”

On upcoming projects, he said, “I’m eager to collaborate more, especially with artists whose music either blends with my sound or brings something completely different When two unique styles come together to create something you couldn’t do alone, that’s when real magic happens ”

DIYA SURIYA, 17, debuts as director with ‘Leading Light’

Suriya and Jyotika’s 17-year-old daughter

Diya is making her directorial debut with ‘Leading Light’, produced by their banner 2D Entertainment. The docu-drama, exploring the experiences of women gaffers in Bollywood, is currently screening for an Oscar-qualifying run at the Regency Theatre in California from September 26 to October 2.

2D Entertainment shared the poster with the caption: “#LeadingLight The untold stories of women behind the scenes A docudrama on the experiences of Bollywood’s women gaffers, screening for an Oscarqualifying run at the Regency Theatre, LA Congratulations to our dearest #DiyaSuriya for highlighting these hidden gems Catch it from Sept 26 to Oct 2 at 12 PM Written and directed by #DiyaSuriya, produced by #Jyotika and #Suriya ”

Fans flooded the post with love, praising Diya’s achievement at such a young age and wishing her success

According to regencymovies com, the 13minute documentary “ uncovers the rarely told stories of women gaffers in Mumbai’s Bollywood industry,” featuring intimate interviews with three trailblazers who often find themselves the only women on set Diya’s debut comes just months after graduating from the University of Southern California In May, Suriya and Jyotika shared a proud Instagram post, writing, “May your choices reflect your hopes and not your fears All the very best, Diya Amma and Appa’s blessings forever ”

Twinkle

and personal

Aamir also revealed that he was once quite judgmental of Salman, but they grew closer during his divorce The two, who starred together in Andaz Apna Apna (1994), bonded over dinner at Salman’s home, recalling fond memories from their time on the film

According to a press note, Aamir said, “It happened during my divorce with Reena You came over for dinner, and that’s when Salman and I first really connected ” He added that he had initially been judgmental of Salman, recalling, “I used to feel he didn’t come on time, and we faced problems during Andaz Apna Apna I was very hard as a person in the beginning ” Salman also opened up about past relationships, saying, “When one partner grows more than the other, differences and insecurities arise Both need to grow together and support each other, I believe that ” When Aamir asked about his past relationships, Salman replied, “If it didn’t work, it didn’t work If anyone is to blame, it’s me ” He also shared his desire to have children, saying, “I will have kids one day, hopefully soon Eventually, it will happen let’s see ”

'Operation Sindoor' on the pitch

The dust settled in Dubai, but the thunder of the India-Pakistan Asia Cup final victory echoed far beyond the boundary ropes, not just for the cricket but for the chaos that followed

I n d i a s e c u r e d t h e

ninth Asia Cup title with a thrilling five-wicket victory over arch-rivals

P a k i s t a n

, concluding a tournament where t

cricketing spectacle on it The win extends India’s dominance in the c

delivered a decisive victory in what has become the most politically c

world

A triumph of nerve

The final, played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, saw

t i a l

n

a p p e a r e d s e t f o r a commanding total, powered by an a g g r e s s i v e o p e n i n g p a r t n e r s h i p between Sahibzada Farhan (57 off 38 balls) and Fakhar Zaman (46 off 35 balls), reaching a formidable 84 for no loss

H o w e v e r , a s u d d e n a n d dramatic collapse saw Pakistan lose their last nine wickets for a mere 33

r u n s , a s t u n n i n g i m p l o s i o n masterminded by India's spinners Pakistan was eventually bowled out f o r 1 4 6 i n 1 9 1 o v e r s T h e turnaround was spearheaded by India's spinners, most notably the l e f t - a r m w r i s t - s p i n n e r K u l d e e p Yadav, who claimed a magnificent 4 for 30 in his four overs, tearing through the middle order He was a b l y s u p p o r t e d b y V a r u n

C h a k a r a v a r t h y ( 2 / 3 0 ) a n d A x a r Patel (2/26), while Jasprit Bumrah secured two crucial strikes at the death (2/25)

Chasing 147, India experienced a troubled start, stumbling to 20

In 1983, India’s shocking World C up tr ium ph ove r t he m ig hty W est Indies st unne d the cricke ting world But t he t rue revolution began off the field, at L ord’s, whe re tra dition a nd arrogance collided with ambition and defiance

P

N a r e n

o Salve, then President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India ( B C C I ) , r e q u e s t e d a f

passes for the World Cup final to

f o

losing openers Abhishek Sharma a n d S h u b m a n G i l l , a n d s k i p p e r

Suryakumar Yadav cheaply The chase was rescued by a composed and mature performance from the young left-hander, Tilak Varma, who anchored the innings with a match-winning, unbeaten knock of 69 runs off 53 balls

C r u c i a l p a r t n e

significantly, Shivam Dube (33 off 22 balls) stabilised the chase, with Rinku Singh hitting the winning boundary with two balls to spare to seal the victory for India at 150 for five Varma was rightly named Man

pressure

The drama, the standoff, and the politicisation of victory

The thrilling cricket soon gave

awards ceremony, resulting in the

victorious Indian team celebrating

Indian team refused to accept the actual trophy because it was to be presented by Mohsin Naqvi, who serves as both the President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and

y o u r m e

Cricket Board (PCB), as well as Pakistan's federal Interior Minister C

decided not to accept the trophy from him Following a protracted stand-off, which lasted nearly an hour, the presentation ceremony was cut short, and the trophy was

organisers, denying the players the chance to hold the silverware they had earned Captain Suryakumar

disappointment, stating, "I have never seen a champion (team) not getting a trophy We deserved it,"

decision would haunt the Indian players later on The tension was

c exchange on social media platform

X Following India's victory, Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted: “OperationSindoor on the games field Outcome is the same – India wins! Congrats to our cricketers”, a clear reference to a recent military conflict between the two nations N a q v i , t h e A C C c h i e f , s w i f t l y responded, dragging the dispute

f u r t h e r i n t o t h e r e a l m o f international politics, “If war was

Commissioner to the

The

Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) not only refused but did so with

amounted to a public humiliation for Indian cricket For Salve,

administrator, the insult was more

English cricketing establishment That moment ignited a plan

Karun axed; Reddy, Padikkal recalled for series against West Indies

Nitish Kumar Reddy and Devdutt P adi kkal earned recalls to the Indian Test squad for the upcoming two-match series against the West I ndi es, wh ile Karun Nair w as dropped despite scoring a 50 in the final Test against England

T

Agarkar, also named Ravindra Jadeja

fitness Pant is expected to return for the South Africa Tests later this year Nair’s omission came after

where the 33-year-old managed just

followed nearly eight years of toil in domestic cricket, but the selectors were left wanting more

more from Karun on the England trip,” Agarkar said When asked why Sai Sudharsan was preferred despite h

England, Agarkar pointed to the importance of continuity P

century in the Dharamshala Test

against England and was part of the Australia tour, has been rewarded for his red-hot form, including a commanding 150 against Australia A in Lucknow Reddy’s selection as a batting all-rounder at No 6 underlines his g r o w i n g v a l u e H i s i m p r e s s i v e performances with both bat and ball i n A u s t r a l i a a n d h i s c o m p

under pressure earned him the nod Abhimanyu Easwaran has been left out, with KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal locking down the opening slots

s u r e o f p r i d e , h i s t o r y already records your humiliating d e f e a t s a t P a k i s t a n ' s h a n d s N o c r i c k e t m a t c h c

marred by the complex political

t h a

truth Dragging war into sport only exposes desperation and disgraces the very spirit of the game, ” he wrote He is very obviously being trolled for this comment

A d d i t i o n a l l y , t h i s e x c h a n g e , coming after India's players had a l r e a d y r e f u s e d t h e c u s t o m a r y h a n d s h a k e w i t h t h e i r P a k i s t a n i o p p o n e n t s t h r o u g h o u t t h e tournament, a gesture viewed by Pakistan's captain as a disrespect to the spirit of cricket cemented the n o t i o n t h a t t h i s r i v a l r y i s n o w b e i n g f o u g h t o n p o l i t i c a l battlegrounds just as much as on the cricket pitch

A storied past

The Asia Cup, established in 1984 following the founding of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) in 1983, was originally conceived to p r o m o t e g o o d w i l l a m o n g t h e continent's cricketing nations and holds the distinction of being the only continental championship in c r i c k e t T h e i n a u g u r a l tournament, held in Sharjah, UAE, in 1984, was a round-robin contest featuring India, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, with India emerging as the first champions H o w e v e r , t h e c o m p e t i t

How an arrogant refusal shifted cricket's power base

control of cricket from the MCC’s hands In the ensuing years, he

subcontinent, paving the way for the formation of the Asian Cricket Council and the eventual hosting of the 1987 World Cup jointly by India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka For

moved outside England, signalling the rise of the subcontinent as the

Pakistan In the early years, India boycotted the second edition in 1986 due to strained relations with S

tournament when

was hosted in India The 1993 tournament was the most significant casualty, as

relations between the two rivals,

tournament has evolved from its round-robin format, expanding to include more teams like the UAE

adapting its format to alternate between ODI and T20I formats W

solidified its position as the most successful team in the history of the tournament, now boasting a total of nine titles, followed by Sri Lanka with six titles, and Pakistan with two

serves as a stark reminder that for all its sporting prestige, the Asia Cup remains intrinsically linked to

e geopolitics of the subcontinent

new epicentre of world cricket What began as the denial of a handful of tickets evolved into a seismic shift in cricket’s power d

p i s o d e demonstrated that arrogance and disdain can spark change, and that a single act of defiance can redraw the map of a global sport From

cricket, 1983 remains a turning point in history

Indian cricketer Ashwin joins Sydney Thunder in landmark deal

India's spin legend Ravichandran Ashwin has joined Sydney Thunder for the Big Bash League 15, becoming the biggest overseas signing since the league’s inception The 39-year-old off-spinner became the first Indian national men ’ s cricketer to feature in the BBL While Indian women ’ s players have long played in domestic leagues around the world, including the WBBL, the BCCI has restricted India’s international and domestic contracted male cricketers from playing in T20 competitions abroad Only retired Indian men ’ s players are allowed to play in overseas T20 leagues “Thunder were crystal clear about how they’d use me and brave enough to back it My conversations with the leadership were excellent, and we ’ re fully aligned on my role I love how David Warner plays the game, and it’s always better when your leader shares your mindset I can’t wait to perform for the Thunder Nation,” Ashwin said in a statement The 39-year-old will join the Thunder in early January His available matches include the team’s trip to the Gabba to face Brisbane Heat on January 10, their clash with Melbourne Renegades at Engie Stadium (January 12), and the Sydney Smash at the SCG (January 16)