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Coal Production & Dispatch from Captive and Commercial Mines Rises in June 2025, Q1 FY26 Sees Strong Year-on-Year Growth

New Delhi: India’s coal sector continues to demonstrate robust performance, with coal production from captive and commercial mines reaching 15.57 million tonnes (MT) and dispatches touching 17.31 MT in the month of June 2025, according to the latest data released by the Ministry of Coal.

This steady growth in production and dispatch reinforces India’s progress toward energy self-reliance and reflects the Ministry’s commitment to enhancing domestic coal availability for key industries.


Q1 FY 2025–26: Strong Performance Across the Board

For the first quarter (April–June 2025) of the fiscal year 2025–26, both coal production and dispatches showed substantial growth:

  • Production increased by 16.39%

  • Dispatches rose by 13.03%

This marks a continued improvement over the previous two financial years. As illustrated in the accompanying chart, the production has grown from 29.07 MT in Q1 FY23-24 to 46.61 MT in Q1 FY25-26, while dispatches have increased from 33.91 MT to 51.63 MT over the same period.

This indicates not only enhanced mining output but also better logistical coordination and infrastructure readiness to move coal to consuming sectors efficiently.




Key Developments in June 2025

June 2025 witnessed several critical steps aimed at further strengthening India’s coal ecosystem:

  • Mine Opening Permission granted for Utkal A Mine

    • This mine has a Peak Rated Capacity (PRC) of 25 MT, which will significantly augment domestic supply in the coming years.

  • Vesting Orders Issued for Three Coal Blocks

    • The Ministry of Coal has now allocated over 200 coal blocks, underlining the increasing participation of private and public entities in India’s coal mining sector.

These actions are aligned with the broader strategic vision of ensuring a steady, reliable, and cost-effective coal supply to vital industries such as:

  • Power Generation

  • Steel Manufacturing

  • Cement Production


Toward Aatmanirbhar Bharat: A Resilient Coal Production Sector

The latest production and dispatch figures signal the operational efficiency and infrastructure advancement in India’s coal sector. By enhancing the productivity of captive and commercial coal mines, the Ministry is actively contributing to the national goal of energy independence and industrial resilience.

These milestones also reiterate the government’s push for “Aatmanirbhar Bharat”, with the coal sector playing a pivotal role in achieving a self-sufficient energy economy.


For more details, check press release on PIB website.

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Kia Carens Clavis EV Set to Debut on July 15 with 490 km Range, to Rival BYD eMax 7

New Delhi: The South Korean automobile giant Kia India is gearing up to unveil its first mass-market electric vehicle — the Carens Clavis EV — on July 15, 2025. Ahead of its official launch, the company has teased key specifications of this highly anticipated 7-seater electric MPV across its official social media platforms, confirming a segment-leading driving range of 490 km on a single full charge (as per ARAI estimates).


Kia’s First Mass-Market Electric Vehicle in India

The Carens Clavis EV marks Kia’s serious entry into India’s mainstream EV segment. The electric version is based on the same platform as the ICE-powered Carens MPV but features a series of EV-specific modifications to support its new powertrain configuration.

In what will be a significant milestone for Kia India, the Carens Clavis EV is expected to broaden the EV adoption base, especially among larger Indian families seeking practical, spacious electric mobility.




Design Language and Key Exterior Updates

While largely identical in profile to its ICE counterpart, the Carens Clavis EV will feature several EV-specific design cues, including:

  • Restyled front and rear bumpers

  • Aerodynamically optimized new alloy wheels

  • Discreet yet functional front-positioned charging port

  • Revised grille with smoother edges and possible closed-off fascia

The suspension setup has reportedly been tweaked to accommodate the added weight of the battery pack and electric motor, thus ensuring better ride quality and balance.


Interior Layout & Tech: Premium Yet Familiar

The interior of the Carens Clavis EV is expected to mirror the ICE variant in layout, but will likely receive:

  • New dual-tone dashboard color themes

  • EV-specific interface elements on the digital display

  • Retained 12.3-inch twin-screen layout, combining:

    • Touchscreen infotainment system

    • Full-digital instrument cluster

Kia is also expected to equip the Clavis EV with a host of safety features, ADAS elements, and connectivity upgrades in line with its latest EV6 and Seltos offerings.


Performance, Battery, and Charging

Although Kia has not yet disclosed battery size or charging times, the 490 km claimed range places the Carens Clavis EV among the top contenders in the Indian EV MPV segment.

Fast-charging compatibility is likely to be included, along with regenerative braking and drive mode selectors for better energy optimization. It is expected to feature front-wheel drive setup for now, and future variants might explore dual-motor configurations depending on market response.


Direct Rival: BYD eMax 7

The BYD eMax 7, currently priced between ₹26.90 – ₹29.90 lakh (ex-showroom), will be the primary rival of the Carens Clavis EV. With comparable size and seating capacity, the two models will compete directly in:

  • Range capability

  • Tech and comfort features

  • After-sales and service ecosystem

  • Price-value proposition

Kia is expected to undercut BYD’s pricing slightly, making the Clavis EV more competitive and accessible to Indian EV buyers.


Conclusion: Kia Aims to Electrify the MPV Segment

The Kia Carens Clavis EV, with its blend of affordable pricing, long range, seven-seat practicality, and robust brand support, is poised to disrupt the electric MPV market in India. With the official launch scheduled for July 15, 2025, and strong anticipation across urban and semi-urban segments, the Carens Clavis EV could become a benchmark for family-friendly electric mobility.

Kia’s move aligns with its global commitment to achieving carbon neutrality and electrified mobility in developing markets, and India remains central to that roadmap.


Follow: Kia

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Image source: Car wale

Mahindra Reports 18% YoY Growth in June 2025 Sales, Crosses 47K Mark in Utility Vehicles

New Delhi: Mahindra & Mahindra, one of India’s leading automobile manufacturers, has reported robust growth in June 2025, selling 47,306 utility vehicles (UVs), marking an impressive 18% year-on-year (YoY) growth. This continued momentum reinforces Mahindra’s strong position in the utility vehicle segment and highlights consumer confidence in its flagship models such as Scorpio-N, Thar, XUV700, and Bolero.


Utility Vehicle Sales Power Overall Growth

In the month of June 2025, Mahindra’s total passenger vehicle (PV) sales stood at 48,329 units, including exports. This reflects the brand’s growing appeal across domestic and international markets.

The rise in UV sales comes at a time when other major players in the Indian automobile industry have reported moderate to declining sales figures, underscoring Mahindra’s resilience and market strength.


Year-To-Date (YTD) Growth Momentum Maintained

The cumulative UV sales from April to June 2025 reached 1,52,067 units, representing a 22% growth over the same period last year (April–June 2024). The company’s sustained demand trajectory across quarters indicates long-term customer retention and steady supply chain efficiency.




Commercial and Export Segment Highlights

Exports for June 2025 stood at 2,634 vehicles, a modest YoY increase, but the cumulative FY26 Q1 (April–June) exports showed strong growth at 9,667 units, up 36% compared to the same period last year. These figures reflects the company’s growing global footprint and acceptance of its rugged, durable vehicles in international markets.

In the commercial vehicle segment, the company sold:

  • 16,772 units of LCVs (2T–3.5T) – up 4% YoY

  • 2,576 units of LCVs (<2T) – down 20% YoY

  • 1,227 units of MHCVs and LCVs (>3.5T) – steady performance

  • 8,454 three-wheelers (including electric) – up 37% YoY


Farm Equipment Sector Also Registers Double-Digit Growth

Mahindra’s Farm Equipment Sector (FES) recorded domestic tractor sales of 51,769 units, a 13% increase YoY. Including exports (1,623 units), total tractor sales reached 53,392 units in June 2025, supported by favourable monsoon patterns and robust agricultural sentiment.


Strong Commentary from Leadership

Commenting on the performance, Mahindra’s Automotive Division CEO Nalinikanth Gollagunta stated:

“We are pleased to close Q1 FY26 with record SUV volumes, driven by continued strong demand for our key brands and the successful ramp-up of production capacities. Exports and EV three-wheeler sales are additional bright spots.”


Conclusion: Mahindra’s Growth Defies Industry Trends

While the overall Indian auto market is showing signs of moderation, it continues to outperform competitors, led by high rural demand, reliable product portfolio, and operational excellence. With aggressive expansion in EVs, rural mobility, and exports, Mahindra’s June 2025 performance affirms its growing stature as a major player both domestically and globally.


Follow: Mahindra

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Secretary Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani Inaugurates National Workshop on Emerging Technologies in PACS; Emphasizes Digital Transformation, Inclusivity, and Grassroots Empowerment: July 2025

New Delhi, July 1, 2025 — In a major push towards modernization and inclusion in India’s cooperative banking ecosystem, Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation, Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani, inaugurated the National Workshop on “Emerging Technologies in PACS” held at PHD House, New Delhi. The event brought together key stakeholders from across 12 states including 122 Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) members, senior officers, representatives from NABARD, NCDC, NFDB, NCCT, NCCF, IFFCO, KRIBHCO, and others.

The workshop focused on digitization, AI, IoT integration, precision agriculture tools, and policy innovation to transform PACS into dynamic economic engines aligned with the goals of Digital India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.


A Historic Step Towards Cooperative Empowerment by Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani

Dr. Bhutani recalled the formation of the Ministry of Cooperation on July 6, 2021, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah, as a historic step to reform and revitalize India’s century-old cooperative ecosystem. With over 1 lakh PACS and 13 crore members, cooperative institutions remain a crucial pillar of rural economic support.


Digital India Meets Rural Credit: From Tradition to Transformation

Despite a decrease in the share of cooperative credit institutions in short-term lending to 15%, beneficiary outreach of PACS has risen to 42%, underlining their impact among small and marginal farmers. Dr. Bhutani emphasized that technology adoption is now indispensable:

“The cooperative banking structure must embrace emerging technologies, enhance transparency, and resolve HR issues to remain competitive and viable.”

He highlighted that out of nearly 2,000 banking licenses in India, 1,900 belong to the cooperative sector, yet their limited product offerings and slow tech adoption had once led to regulatory restrictions.


Three Major Pillars of PACS Revamp

  1. Model Bye-Laws for PACS Diversification

    • Enable PACS to function beyond credit and agri-inputs into 26 activities including storage, retail, dairy, LPG distribution, CSCs, etc.

    • Aimed at making PACS self-sustaining social and economic hubs.

  2. National Database of Cooperatives

    • Allows real-time gap analysis, decentralized planning, and policy targeting by states and the Centre.

  3. Massive PACS Computerisation Drive

    • ₹3,000 crore invested so far under the scheme.

    • Target: Digitise 80,000 PACS and integrate them with all Government of India schemes.

    • Compared PACS computerisation to the Indian Railways ticketing revolution, projecting enhanced transparency, accountability, and service delivery.


Tech-Driven Future: From Advisory Services to Financial Inclusion

Dr. Bhutani stressed the need to embed emerging technologies into rural frameworks. He outlined possibilities such as:

  • Weather, disaster, and pest advisories integrated into PACS systems

  • Use of AI, IoT, AgriTech tools for smarter agricultural interventions

  • Cooperative fintech innovations for easier access to credit and insurance

  • Making PACS a “One-Stop Shop” for all rural development and welfare schemes


Symbolic and Practical Support

As a part of PM Modi’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign and to mark the International Year of Cooperatives, Dr. Bhutani planted a sapling, emphasizing environmental responsibility alongside institutional growth.

Stalls showcasing innovation by cooperatives, start-ups, and success stories from Jammu & Kashmir, Tamil Nadu, and Mizoram offered insight into practical progress on the ground.


Voices from the Ground & Collaborative Dialogue

The workshop featured three technical sessions covering:

  • PACS in the age of Digital India

  • Cooperative Fintech and Policy Innovations

  • Leveraging Emerging Tools in Precision Agriculture

In addition, experience sharing by state RCSs and Secretaries, and concerns raised by PACS members, enriched the participatory tone of the event. The workshop concluded with certificate distribution to participating PACS members, affirming their central role in shaping India’s cooperative transformation.


Conclusion: Cooperatives as Engines of Rural Prosperity

The workshop, led by Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani, marks a vital step in digitally empowering grassroots cooperatives. As India modernizes its credit systems and integrates new technologies, PACS are being re-envisioned not just as financial institutions, but as dynamic agents of rural development, innovation, and inclusive growth.

For more details, check press release on PIB website.

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Union Minister Satish Chandra Dubey Visits SECL Mines, Inaugurates Projects, and Champions Role of Coal in Aatmanirbhar Bharat:July @025

Raipur/Baikunthpur, July 1, 2025 — Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines, Shri Satish Chandra Dubey, concluded a two-day official visit to South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL Mines), covering its major operational sites including Dipka, Chirimiri, and Churcha. The visit underscored the government’s commitment to sustainable coal mining, safety innovation, and the crucial role of coal in realizing the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.


Cutting-Edge Technology for Safer, Smarter Mining

On July 1, the Minister virtually inaugurated a low-height Continuous Miner machine at the NCPH underground mine in SECL’s Chirimiri Area. This state-of-the-art mining equipment is designed to increase underground coal production while enhancing worker safety and operational efficiency.

Reaffirming coal’s centrality to India’s self-reliance mission, Shri Dubey stated:

“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, coal shortages are a thing of the past. With advanced technologies like the Continuous Miner, our target is to produce 100 million tonnes from underground mines by 2030.”

He commended SECL for embracing innovation and modern mining tools to promote safe, sustainable extraction of coal.




Strengthening Safety and Inclusivity

During his visit to the Churcha underground mine in the Baikunthpur Area, the Minister inaugurated a Main Mechanical Ventilator (MMV) — a critical safety infrastructure designed to provide clean and fresh airflow to underground workers. He also inaugurated bio-toilets to support the inclusion and welfare of women employees in the mining workforce.

In a strong gesture toward environmental responsibility, Shri Dubey planted a tree under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, symbolizing coal sector’s growing commitment to ecological sustainability.


Employee Recognition and Social Outreach in SECL Mines

The Minister took time to felicitate SECL employees, including contractual workers and women staff, for their exceptional service and dedication. He interacted with workers at their camps to personally assess their welfare conditions, highlighting the importance of inclusive growth and labor dignity in the coal sector.

At SECL’s Dipka Area, the Minister:

  • Participated in a plantation drive at Pragati House

  • Laid the foundation stone for a new entrance gate and security complex

  • Reviewed mine performance and productivity at the Dipka View Point

  • Commended SECL’s impactful CSR initiatives, including the “SECL Ki Dhadkan” program that funds life-saving heart surgeries for children


Government-Industry Synergy for Faster Progress

On the first day of his tour (June 30), Shri Dubey paid a courtesy visit to Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai in Raipur. The two leaders held key discussions to expedite land acquisition and rehabilitation processes critical to coal mining expansion and infrastructure development in the state.


Conclusion: A Vision for Coal-Led Development

Minister Satish Chandra Dubey’s visit to SECL highlighted a broader vision — that of making coal mining not just productive and self-reliant, but also inclusive, modern, and sustainable. With renewed emphasis on technology, safety, environmental protection, and social responsibility, SECL continues to be a key player in India’s energy ecosystem and its journey towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat.


For more details, check press release on PIB website.

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Cabinet Approves Rs 1,853 Cr 4-Lane Highway Project Between Paramakudi and Ramanathapuram: Boost to Connectivity, Economy & Tourism in Southern Tamil Nadu

New Delhi, July 1, 2025 — In a landmark infrastructure decision, the Union Cabinet has approved the construction of a 4-lane highway between Paramakudi and Ramanathapuram, under the Madurai–Dhanushkodi Corridor (NH-87), at a total capital cost of ₹1,853.16 crore. The 46.7 km stretch will be developed using the Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) and is set to significantly improve road connectivity across key districts of southern Tamil Nadu.


Decongesting a Critical Corridor

At present, National Highway 87 (NH-87) serves as the primary arterial road connecting important cities such as Madurai, Paramakudi, Ramanathapuram, Mandapam, Rameshwaram, and Dhanushkodi. However, the existing 2-lane route is heavily congested due to rising traffic volumes — especially through dense habitations and rapidly expanding towns like Sathirakudi and Achundanvayal.

The upgraded 4-lane section from Paramakudi to Ramanathapuram will act as a vital decongestion measure, greatly improving travel efficiency, reducing accident risk, and ensuring safe, faster mobility for both passengers and freight.




Strategic Multimodal Integration

The proposed highway will seamlessly integrate with 5 major National HighwaysNH-38, NH-85, NH-36, NH-536, and NH-32, and 3 State HighwaysSH-47, SH-29, and SH-34. This integrated network will boost multimodal connectivity with key economic and transport hubs, such as:

  • Airports: Madurai Airport

  • Railway Stations: Madurai and Rameshwaram

  • Minor Ports: Pamban and Rameshwaram

The improved corridor is expected to facilitate smoother movement of goods and pilgrims, especially to the religious destinations of Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi, while also enabling faster access to regional markets and logistic hubs.


Driving Economic and Regional Development

The ₹1,853 crore investment — including ₹997.63 crore in civil costs and ₹340.94 crore in land acquisition — will be a catalyst for regional economic development, tourism growth, and local industry expansion.

With an estimated daily traffic of 12,700 Passenger Car Units (PCU) in FY-25, the new highway will relieve logistical bottlenecks and contribute to:

  • Improved tourism access to spiritual and heritage destinations like Rameshwaram

  • Better trade routes for agricultural and marine products in coastal districts

  • Stronger economic linkages between urban and rural centers across the corridor


Employment and Social Impact

The project will also have a strong employment generation potential, creating:

  • 8.4 lakh man-days of direct employment

  • 10.5 lakh man-days of indirect employment

Additionally, it will improve socio-economic indicators in connected towns such as Madurai, Paramakudi, Ramanathapuram, Sathirakudi, and Achundanvayal, encouraging local entrepreneurship, services, and skill development.


Conclusion

The Cabinet’s approval for the Paramakudi–Ramanathapuram 4-lane highway under NH-87 marks a major push toward sustainable, inclusive, and high-impact infrastructure in southern Tamil Nadu. As a transformative project, it is poised to strengthen mobility, boost regional prosperity, and support India’s vision for robust multimodal connectivity and economic integration.


For more details, check press release on PIB website.

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

President Murmu Inaugurates Mahayogi Guru Gorakhnath AYUSH University: A Landmark Step in Holistic Healthcare: July 2025

Gorakhpur, July 1, 2025 — In a significant boost to India’s traditional healthcare systems, the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, inaugurated the Mahayogi Guru Gorakhnath AYUSH University in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh today. The university stands as a state-of-the-art hub for the advancement and dissemination of India’s ancient wellness traditions, including Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy.


A Milestone in India’s Healthcare Education

During her address, the President remarked that the university is an “impressive modern center of our rich ancient traditions.” With over 100 AYUSH colleges now affiliated with the institution, it is set to become a national and international benchmark in alternative medicine education and practice.

President Murmu emphasized that the university will not only serve the people of Uttar Pradesh but also contribute to enhancing AYUSH-based medical services across India. “This inauguration is a milestone in the development of medical education and services,” she said, expressing satisfaction over the availability of advanced facilities to a large number of people.




Tribute to Leadership and Public Service

In her brief yet heartfelt reflections, the President spoke about the nature of public service. “One has to give up self-comforts to help people,” she said, appreciating Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for his unwavering dedication to public welfare. She commended his efforts in improving infrastructure related to health, education, and agriculture.

The President encouraged public administrators, medical professionals, and staff to remain devoted to the welfare of society and reflect on the promises made upon entering their respective professions.


Promoting Wellness Through Ancient Wisdom

Highlighting the centrality of good health to national progress, President Murmu reiterated the adage “health is wealth.” She urged the public to take proactive steps toward wellness, especially through regular yoga practice — particularly vital in an era of increasingly sedentary lifestyles.

She elaborated on the ancient Indian knowledge systems, noting that Ayurveda, Yoga, and other AYUSH disciplines are based on a holistic and sustainable philosophy of life. “Our fields and forests are a treasure of medicinal herbs. Ayurveda is deeply rooted in the earth,” she said, asserting that AYUSH systems are India’s precious gift to the global community.


Boosting Scientific Recognition for AYUSH

The President acknowledged the growing domestic and international popularity of AYUSH-based treatments and called for enhanced scientific validation and credibility for these traditional systems. “The Mahayogi Guru Gorakhnath AYUSH University must play a decisive role in strengthening the scientific foundations and global recognition of AYUSH systems,” she stressed.

As India marches toward its vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047, the integration of traditional wisdom with modern healthcare will play an increasingly vital role — a sentiment echoed strongly in the President’s address.


Conclusion

The inauguration of the Mahayogi Guru Gorakhnath AYUSH University marks a pivotal moment in India’s journey toward embracing its cultural heritage in medicine and aligning it with modern scientific standards. With the active support of visionary leadership and robust infrastructure, AYUSH systems are poised to lead a global movement in holistic health and wellness.


For more details, check press release on PIB website.

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

President Murmu Graces First Convocation of AIIMS Gorakhpur: A Moment of Pride for India’s Expanding Medical Excellence- June 2025

Gorakhpur: In a landmark event for the region and the country, President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, graced the first convocation ceremony of AIIMS Gorakhpur on June 30, 2025, in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. Her presence underscored the national importance of this premier institution in enhancing access to quality medical education and healthcare services in eastern India.


🌐 AIIMS – A Symbol of India’s Medical Excellence

In her address, President Murmu remarked that

“The name AIIMS instantly brings to mind world-class treatment, cutting-edge diagnostics, and dedicated doctors.”

She noted that AIIMS institutions, including the one in Gorakhpur, are symbols of India’s evolving medical capabilities and are integral to providing hope and healing to millions. She praised their role in promoting innovation—from surgical technologies and early diagnostics to blending AYUSH with allopathy, setting new benchmarks in medical education and research.




🏥 AIIMS Gorakhpur: A Rising Healthcare Beacon for Eastern India

President Murmu applauded the remarkable progress made by AIIMS Gorakhpur in a short span, especially in education, research, and affordable healthcare delivery. Serving not just Uttar Pradesh, but also bordering regions of Bihar and Nepal, the institution is emerging as a regional center of medical excellence.

She commended the institute for making affordable, quality healthcare accessible across all socioeconomic classes, in line with the original vision of setting up AIIMS-like institutions nationwide.


🩺 Doctors as Architects of a Healthy India

Stressing the pivotal role of doctors in building a healthy society, President Murmu said:

“Doctors not only treat diseases, but also lay the foundation of a healthy nation.”

She urged young doctors to dedicate themselves to serving the underserved, especially in rural and tribal areas where healthcare access is limited. She expressed confidence that the new generation of medical professionals would bring compassionate care to the remotest corners of the country.


🤝 Empathy & Communication: Core to Medical Ethics

Highlighting the importance of empathy in medicine, the President appealed to all stakeholders in medical education to create an ecosystem where doctors are trained not just in clinical skills, but also in doctor-patient communication, emotional intelligence, and ethical practice.

She said:

“Medicine is not just a profession—it is a service to humanity. Let compassion and honesty be the foundation of your life and practice.”


🎓 A Call to Serve with Knowledge and Kindness

As AIIMS Gorakhpur sent its first batch of graduates into the world, President Murmu’s powerful words served as a guiding light. The ceremony was a celebration of India’s growing healthcare infrastructure, as well as a reminder that true progress lies in inclusive, compassionate, and accessible medical service for all.

For more details, check press release on PIB website.

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.