Friday, November 21, 2025
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Biden Celebrates Diwali at the White House, Highlights Kamala Harris’ Role

On Monday, President Joe Biden celebrated Diwali at the White House, welcoming over 600 Indian American leaders, executives, and officials. During his remarks, Biden highlighted the vital role of South Asian Americans in shaping U.S. governance and progress. “From Vice President Kamala Harris to Dr. Vivek Murthy, I am proud that my administration reflects the diversity of America,” Biden said, reaffirming his pledge to build an inclusive government.

The event included an introduction by youth activist Shrusti Amula and participation from astronaut Sunita Williams, who shared a video message from space. U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy also spoke at the event. However, both Vice President Harris and First Lady Jill Biden were absent due to campaign-related commitments.

Biden reflected on the history of Diwali celebrations at the White House, pointing out that the festival was first hosted in 2016, but a resurgence of hostility toward immigrants, including South Asians, echoes today. “America’s strength lies in being a beacon of light for all communities,” he added, linking the festival’s spirit to the values of unity and democracy.

As part of the festivities, Biden lit a ceremonial diya in the Blue Room, thanking the South Asian community for their contributions to American society, from economic development to leadership during the pandemic. (Input from the agencies)

(By Ankita Singh, Web Team at C6N)

(Input from the agencies)

 

Mirzapur: The Film”announced? Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal set to return!

Struggling to Manage Long Covid: Indian Doctors Face a Shortfall in Guidelines and Research

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NEW DELHI: As the impact of Covid-19 lingers globally, India’s healthcare system is confronting a significant challenge in diagnosing and treating long Covid cases, where patients experience persistent symptoms months after infection. Despite the World Health Organization’s declaration that Covid is no longer a global emergency, doctors and researchers in India face a daunting task as limited local studies and guidelines hamper effective management of these cases.

In India, estimates suggest that around 45% of recovered Covid patients continue to experience symptoms like fatigue, muscle pain, and brain fog months later. Yet, the lack of dedicated studies and clinical guidelines in the country forces doctors to navigate these cases with minimal resources. This gap contrasts with global efforts—research from Harvard, the University of Oxford, and Shiv Nadar University, for instance, explores potential underlying causes like autoimmune responses and vascular impacts, but India’s local studies remain scarce.

Some promising developments are underway. Shiv Nadar University recently introduced an innovative fluorescent probe to detect cellular changes linked to long Covid. But without more robust, localized data, the path to consistent, evidence-based treatment in India remains challenging. Patients are also finding few dedicated clinics for specialized long Covid care in India, unlike cities in Europe and North America where such services are increasing.

As doctors and researchers push for more research funding and comprehensive guidelines, experts agree that more needs to be done to ease the burden on India’s healthcare system and offer effective treatment for those struggling with long Covid.

C6N Web Team, New Delhi

RBI Tightens Net Worth Norms for Central Counterparties(CCP’s)

MUMBAI: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recently introduced updated requirements for central counterparties (CCPs) operating within India, aiming to strengthen the regulatory framework around these critical financial market intermediaries. These updates, which include an increase in the minimum net worth requirement to ₹300 crore, are designed to ensure greater financial stability and resilience within India’s financial markets. The enhanced requirements are part of the RBI’s strategy to minimize systemic risks, especially considering CCPs’ central role in settling trades and managing risks for various financial instruments.

Key Changes and Requirements for CCPs

1. Minimum Net Worth Requirement
The net worth threshold for CCPs has been raised to ₹300 crore. CCPs play a pivotal role by acting as intermediaries between parties in trades, managing risks by guaranteeing settlement in case of a counterparty default. The higher net worth aims to bolster CCPs’ financial standing and risk-bearing capacity, reducing the risk of market disruptions due to financial instability within CCPs themselves.

2. Audited Net Worth Certificate
Each CCP must submit an audited net worth certificate from a statutory auditor within six months of the close of each fiscal year. This requirement emphasizes the RBI’s focus on transparency and accountability, as regular audits enable closer oversight of CCPs’ financial health and adherence to risk management protocols. It also reinforces the credibility of CCPs by ensuring they meet financial standards required to handle large-scale transactions effectively.

3. Corporate Governance Standards
The RBI’s directive further mandates CCPs to establish robust governance structures. It requires boards to appoint directors and key officials based on a “fit and proper” criterion, ensuring that the leadership possesses the necessary expertise in risk management and operational oversight. Additionally, CCPs must constitute a Nomination and Remuneration Committee to oversee management appointments, bringing them in line with global best practices.

4. Risk Management and Reporting
Under the new framework, CCPs must strengthen their internal control and risk management processes. This includes having a dedicated Risk Management Committee that monitors and evaluates potential threats and deviations in real-time. The committee must also inform the RBI of any changes to the CCP’s risk model or significant operational risks. These steps are expected to reduce the likelihood of financial crises by proactively identifying and addressing vulnerabilities.

5. International Alignment
These requirements align with global standards set by organizations like the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) and the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO). By incorporating these elements, the RBI intends to position Indian CCPs competitively within the global financial ecosystem, while simultaneously increasing investor confidence and regulatory robustness.

C6N Web Team, Mumbai.

Breaking Barriers: The Fight for Women’s Political Voice in India

Recent trends in Indian politics highlight a significant rise in female voter turnout, a trend that has seen women’s participation on election day equal that of men for the first time since Independence. Despite this promising shift, a perplexing gap remains: while women are voting in high numbers, their engagement in political activities outside of elections lags behind that of men.

Political scientist Soledad Artiz Prillaman, in her new book, The Patriarchal Political Order: The Making and Unraveling of the Gendered Participation Gap in India, sheds light on this issue. Prillaman recently appeared on the podcast Grand Tamasha, where she discussed her research and its implications for women’s political engagement.

Prillaman argues that traditional household dynamics significantly shape women’s political behavior. “In many cases, women participate in politics when it aligns with the interests of men in their households,” she explains. This perspective suggests that political decisions are often made within the context of household negotiations, mirroring economic decision-making processes. “The beliefs and preferences of everyone in my household influence my political behavior,” she noted, highlighting how power dynamics within families can restrict women’s autonomy.

While acknowledging the progress made, Prillaman cautioned against viewing policy interventions as a one-time solution. “Women’s empowerment cannot be done by Band-Aid. Patriarchy adapts and reasserts itself,” she warned. Despite increases in voter turnout, women’s labor force participation rates have stagnated, demonstrating that the structural barriers to true empowerment remain largely unaddressed.

Prillaman’s insights call for a comprehensive approach to women’s political participation—one that goes beyond immediate electoral gains to challenge and transform entrenched societal norms. As she aptly puts it, “It’s a game of ‘whack-a-mole’ until the fundamental power structures change.”

This ongoing dialogue is critical for understanding how to effectively bridge the gap in political engagement and ensure women’s voices are not just heard on election day but resonate throughout the political landscape.

Gujarat’s Water Management: A Model for India’s Future

MUMBAI: In recent remarks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Gujarat’s impressive strides in water management, showcasing its sustainable water infrastructure as a blueprint for India. This recognition stems from Gujarat’s long-term strategies, beginning in the early 2000s, to address its chronic water scarcity. Once dependent on external sources to meet basic water needs, the state has since developed a self-reliant and resilient water system that has transformed its landscape and economy.

Key to Gujarat’s success is its innovative multi-layered water distribution system, centered around the Narmada canal network. This system allows for efficient water transfer across regions, including Kutch, Saurashtra, and North Gujarat. Supporting this is the ambitious Saurashtra Narmada Avtaran Irrigation (SAUNI) scheme, which diverts surplus water to replenish regional reservoirs and provide relief during droughts. The state has also established a water grid, enhancing equitable water distribution and improving availability during peak summer months.

Moreover, Gujarat has embraced non-traditional water sources to bolster climate resilience, investing in desalination plants along its coastline, which contribute over 370 million liters daily to the state’s supply. A recent focus on wastewater reuse further reduces dependence on freshwater, with the state’s Reuse of Treated Wastewater Policy facilitating the use of recycled water in industrial operations, making Gujarat a leader in India’s circular water economy.

With these initiatives, Gujarat not only secures water access for its people but also builds a model of sustainability that could serve as a guiding framework for other Indian states facing similar challenges.

C6N Web Team, Mumbai.

Battle of stars: Shadloui vs Naveen in PKL tonight

Pro Kabaddi League season 11 is picking its pace.  Two close battles yesterday- Jaipur Pink Panthers vs Tamil Thalaivas ended in a 30-30 tie, UP Yoddhas beat Gujarat Giants 35-29. Hyderabad is gearing up for a fierce battle between two giants of the game. Dabang Delhi K. C. will lock horns with Haryana Steelers tonight at 8 PM. Naveen Kumar Goyat will be up against Haryana’s Mohammadreza Shadloui.

Haryana Steelers had a rough start to their PKL campaign as Puneri Paltan beat them 35-25. Shadloui managed 4 points against his former team with which he won championship last season. In the next match against 2-time champions Jaipur, Haryana won by 37-25 registering their first win of the season. Shadloui had a tough outing as the Iranian accumulated only 2 points with 4 unsuccessful tackles.

Dabang Delhi has played 3 matches so far and registered wins against U Mumbai and Telugu Titans. They lost their second match against UP Yoddhas 28-23. Naveen, who holds the record for most consecutive super 10s had a scruffy start. The youngster recovering from an injury sustained last year, is yet to find his true consistency. He scored 2 points against U Mumbai, 4 against UP and finally displayed his class against Pawan Sehrawat led Telugu Titans. Famously called ‘Naveen Express’, he scored 15 points without getting tackled even once. Last match, truly showed what he is capable of.

Both the stars after a rough start are looking to find their mojo. It will be one cracker of a match. Naveen raids from right, Shadloui is a left corner defender, there is no one separating them. PKL will deliver a blockbuster evening today. This will not be the only blockbuster. Right after Haryana-Delhi clash, high-player Pawan Sehrawat will be in action against Patna Pirates. Pawan leads the raider’s tally with 47 points in 4 matches ahead of Arjun Deshwal with 44 points.

Four Indian Nationals Killed in Tragic Car Crash in Canada

Four Indian nationals lost their lives in a devastating single-vehicle crash in Toronto, Canada. The tragic accident occurred last week near Lake Shore Boulevard East and Cherry Street. The victims, aged between 25 and 32, were traveling in a Tesla when the vehicle lost control, struck a guardrail, and then collided with a concrete pillar before bursting into flames.

Authorities believe speeding was a contributing factor in the crash. Four passengers were declared dead at the scene, while a 25-year-old woman survived and was rushed to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A passing motorist helped rescue her from the burning vehicle.

The Indian Consulate in Toronto expressed their condolences and assured that they are coordinating with local authorities and the families of the victims in India to provide necessary support. Police have called on witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to come forward to assist with the investigation.

This incident has brought an outpouring of grief from both the local community and the victims’ families back in India.

Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein Season 2: Get Ready for an Unforgettable Ride!

Netflix has officially announced the highly anticipated second season of its popular romantic crime thriller, Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein, confirming a premiere date of November 22. The announcement came with an eye-catching poster featuring the returning cast members Tahir Raj Bhasin, Aanchal Singh, and Shweta Tripathi, along with new addition Gurmeet Choudhary.

The series, directed by Sidharth Sengupta, has garnered significant attention for its gripping narrative and complex characters. The new season promises to introduce unexpected twists, with the tagline hinting at “a new turn, new faces, and some old secrets.” Fans can expect the continuation of Vikrant Singh Chauhan’s tumultuous journey as he navigates his chaotic life and seeks to extricate himself from his wife, Purva.

For more details view Here:

Tahir Raj Bhasin, who plays the lead role, expressed his enthusiasm for the new season, referring to it as a “fiendishly delicious thriller” that promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. He shared, “The past few years have been a fairytale for my career, with Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein being a standout project. It allowed me to portray a hero who embodies complexity—relatable yet larger than life.” Bhasin emphasized his hope for the series to earn even more love and acclaim from audiences.

IMG 20241028 WA0084Fans have reacted positively to the announcement, flooding social media with excitement. Many are particularly eager to see Gurmeet Choudhary in the new season, marking his debut in the series. His addition to the cast has sparked curiosity about the dynamics he will bring to the storyline.

Returning cast members, including Aanchal Singh and Shweta Tripathi, are expected to deliver captivating performances alongside Saurabh Shukla and Arunoday Singh. As the release date approaches, anticipation is building for a season filled with more tension, intrigue, and drama, further solidifying Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein as a must-watch series on Netflix.

The Top 10 Foods to Nourish Your Skin Naturally

Looking for radiant, healthy skin? Diet plays a crucial role. Here’s a shuffled list of ten foods packed with nutrients that can boost skin health by improving elasticity, reducing inflammation, and protecting from damage.

1.Avocados
Avocados are rich in healthy fats, along with vitamins E and C, which protect against environmental stressors and support collagen production. Regular consumption has been shown to improve skin elasticity and firmness.

2. Tomatoes
Tomatoes offer lycopene and other carotenoids that protect against sun damage. Pairing them with healthy fats, such as olive oil, can enhance nutrient absorption for healthier, glowing skin.

3. Walnuts
A rich source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, walnuts help maintain the skin barrier and combat inflammation. They also provide zinc, which supports wound healing and reduces acne risks.

4. Green Tea
Green tea contains antioxidants called catechins, which protect the skin from UV damage and improve elasticity. Consuming green tea regularly has been linked to better hydration and skin texture.

5. Bell Peppers
Red and yellow bell peppers are loaded with vitamins A and C. These nutrients promote collagen production, improving skin firmness while protecting against premature aging.

6. Fatty Fish
Fish like salmon and mackerel are packed with omega-3 fatty acids that keep the skin hydrated and reduce inflammation. They also contain vitamin E, which protects against free radicals.

7. Broccoli
This vegetable is full of vitamins A, C, and zinc, along with sulforaphane, a compound that shields the skin from sun damage. Broccoli also fights oxidative stress, keeping the skin smooth and healthy.

8. Dark Chocolate
High-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) provides antioxidants that boost skin hydration and blood flow. Studies suggest it may reduce sun sensitivity and improve texture, though moderation is key.

9. Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds offer essential nutrients like vitamin E and selenium, both of which fight oxidative damage and support skin hydration by maintaining its protective barrier.

10. Sweet Potatoes
Packed with beta-carotene, sweet potatoes act as natural sunblock. This antioxidant not only reduces sunburn risks but also enhances skin’s glow and smoothness.

By incorporating these foods into your diet, you can nurture your skin from within. A varied diet rich in these ingredients will help maintain your skin’s elasticity, hydration, and protection against environmental damage. Stay consistent, and your skin will thank you!

(with inputs from Ankita Singh)