Thursday, November 20, 2025
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Dharmendra Pradhan Meets Singapore PM Lawrence Wong: Focus on Education and Skills Development

New Delhi: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan recently met Singapore’s Prime Minister, Lawrence Wong, in Singapore to expand bilateral cooperation in education and skills development. The meeting, which is part of Pradhan’s three-day visit, aimed to deepen collaboration through vocational training and research initiatives, enhancing both nations’ educational ecosystems.

The discussions highlighted a framework based on three key pillars: Talent, Resource, and Market. Pradhan emphasized India’s view of Singapore as a trusted knowledge partner, noting that the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 aims to integrate vocational training into the school curriculum. He stressed the importance of utilizing Singapore’s expertise to customize solutions suitable for India’s diverse needs.

Both leaders also reviewed progress made in the India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable, which has set a new agenda for the partnership, particularly focusing on creating opportunities for lifelong learning and building a future-ready workforce. Singapore’s collaboration in establishing skills centers in India has been pivotal, and both countries agreed to further support these initiatives.

Additionally, Pradhan visited Spectra Secondary School to observe Singapore’s skills-based learning approach, which he described as exemplary. The Minister expressed India’s commitment to learning from such models to enhance its own educational infrastructure, aiming for a seamless architecture that supports skilling, upskilling, and reskilling.

The partnership also aligns with broader cooperation frameworks discussed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Singapore, where the two countries identified critical areas such as sustainability, digitalization, and healthcare as part of their strategic partnership roadmap.

This collaboration marks a significant step toward building a comprehensive, skill-based educational framework between India and Singapore, aimed at addressing future challenges and transforming educational systems in both countries.(Input from agencies)

Subhash Ghai’s Memoir ‘Karma’s Child’ to Chronicle the Journey of Bollywood’s Legendary Showman

HarperCollins has officially announced the release of Karma’s Child: The Story of Indian Cinema’s Ultimate Showman by Subhash Ghai, co-authored with Suveen Sinha. The memoir is a tribute to the filmmaker’s illustrious career in Bollywood, where he directed some of the most iconic films like Kalicharan, Hero, Ram Lakhan, and Khal Nayak. Known for his grand cinematic style, Ghai revolutionized Indian cinema, often pushing boundaries through music, storytelling, and introducing new talents.

“This book is my personal journey,” said Subhash Ghai, “It is about how I came from nowhere, faced challenges, and became part of an industry that shapes destinies. I hope readers find as much drama and inspiration in it as they do in my films.”

The memoir, scheduled for release in November 2024, reflects on Ghai’s evolution as a filmmaker, his influence on Hindi cinema, and his journey from directing blockbusters to founding Whistling Woods, India’s premier film and media institute. Ghai’s co-author, Suveen Sinha, shared his admiration: “Collaborating on this book was a dream come true. Subhash Ghai’s films left an indelible mark on my childhood, and bringing his story to life was a privilege.”

Udayan Mitra, Executive Publisher at HarperCollins, expressed excitement about the book’s release, saying, “Ghai’s films are timeless, and his memoir promises to be just as captivating with stories from his life and career. It’s a must-read for all fans of Indian cinema.”

The book will be launched at Mumbai’s prestigious Literature Live! Festival at NCPA, where renowned lyricist Gulzar and filmmaker Imtiaz Ali will take part in a panel to discuss Ghai’s cinematic contributions.

Indian Envoy Slams Trudeau’s Allegations in Nijjar Case as Politically Motivated

Indian High Commissioner to Canada, Sanjay Kumar Verma, has strongly refuted the allegations made by the Canadian government concerning India’s involvement in the killing of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Speaking amid growing diplomatic tensions, Verma called the accusations “politically motivated” and stated that no evidence has been shared by Canada to substantiate its claims.

The diplomatic rift escalated after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged that Indian government agents were involved in Nijjar’s murder on Canadian soil, a charge New Delhi has firmly rejected as “absurd” and “motivated.” The allegations have severely strained relations between the two nations, with both countries expelling multiple diplomats in retaliation. Canada designated Verma and several other Indian diplomats as “persons of interest” in the investigation, to which India responded by recalling Verma and other officials, and expelling six Canadian diplomats.

Verma emphasized that India operates within the rule of law and is open to cooperating if credible evidence is provided. “We have repeatedly requested Canada to share any legally acceptable evidence, but none has been provided,” Verma said in a recent interview, dismissing the accusations as part of Trudeau’s domestic political agenda. He added, “This is clearly politically motivated, as no proper procedures were followed.”

Meanwhile, Indian officials have accused the Trudeau administration of pandering to extremist elements within Canada for electoral gains, particularly by allowing pro-Khalistani groups to operate freely. Indian authorities have maintained that Canada’s refusal to act against these groups has contributed to the growing discord between the two nations.

Yogi Adityanath Reaffirms Commitment to Law and Order, Vows to Instill Fear Among Criminals

Uttar Pradesh: On Police Commemoration Day, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reiterated his government’s focus on reinforcing law and order by instilling fear of the law among criminals. Speaking at an event in Lucknow, he emphasized that his administration’s top priority is to ensure criminals cannot operate with impunity, highlighting the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards crime.

Adityanath cited the arrest of over 77,800 criminals, with 923 detained under the Gangster Act, and the confiscation of illegal assets worth more than Rs.4,000 crore. He stressed that these actions send a strong message to criminal networks and the mafia across the state. “Strengthening the law and order in the state and instilling a fear of law among the criminals is the priority of our government,” Adityanath said during the ceremony.

He also paid tribute to police officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. “The sacrifices of our brave personnel will inspire us to continue our duties with dedication and responsibility,” he added. Two policemen from Uttar Pradesh were among the officers who died in 2023-24 while serving the state.

Supporting these sentiments, Union Home Minister Amit Shah also spoke at a Police Commemoration Day event, affirming the government’s commitment to tackling terrorism and drug trafficking nationwide. Shah acknowledged progress in curbing terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, but emphasized that the fight is ongoing. He praised the dedication of the police and security forces, saying, “Their sacrifices will not be forgotten.”

The day saw tributes from leaders across the country, including Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and top officials from Maharashtra, who honored fallen officers in similar ceremonies.

Government Plans Legislative Measures to Combat Airline Bomb Threats

NEW DELHI: The Indian government is taking serious measures to address the surge in bomb threats targeting airlines, according to Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu. In a recent statement, Naidu revealed that the government is working on amendments to aviation security laws to implement stricter norms against such threats. These include the possibility of placing individuals responsible for bomb threats on a no-fly list and enforcing heavier penalties.

In the past week alone, over 25 flights, including international ones, have been affected by bomb threats, leading to disruptions and emergency diversions. Authorities have confirmed that most of these threats turned out to be hoaxes. The Minister expressed deep concern, stating that such incidents not only compromise passenger safety but also strain airline operations and law enforcement resources.

Naidu mentioned that a high-level committee, comprising officials from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), and other key agencies, has been set up to assess and respond to these threats. The committee will explore legislative changes under the Suppression of Unlawful Acts Against Safety of Civil Aviation Act, 1982, to strengthen the security framework.

The government’s approach includes enhancing digital monitoring systems to detect and respond to threats communicated via social media, where most recent cases were reported. Law enforcement agencies are actively investigating the incidents, and arrests have been made, including the detention of a minor involved in several hoax threats in Mumbai.

By tightening security measures and legislative frameworks, the government aims to ensure the safety of passengers and the integrity of India’s aviation sector. (Input from Agencies)

Onion Prices Soar Ahead of Diwali: Retail Rates Hit Rs 80-100 Amid Severe Supply Crunch

Onion prices in India have surged dramatically just before Diwali, with retail prices in metro cities like Delhi and Mumbai now ranging from Rs.80 to Rs.100 per kg. The spike is driven by heavy rains that have severely impacted onion crops in key producing states such as Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh. In some regions, rainfall was over 200% above normal, damaging crops and delaying harvests, leading to reduced supply in markets.

As a result, the government has been selling onions from buffer stocks at subsidized rates of Rs.25 per kg to provide some relief. However, traders predict that prices will remain elevated until mid-November, when fresh supplies from the next harvest start entering the market.

Farmers have expressed concern over the crop losses. Samadhan Bagul, a farmer from Maharashtra’s Dhule district, said, “This season’s heavy rains have stunted the growth of onion bulbs. Where I used to harvest five tonnes per acre, this year I’m only getting one tonne.” Similarly, Vikas Singh, an onion trader, noted that “prices will likely stabilize only after fresh arrivals by late November.”

In Bengaluru, wholesale prices have jumped to Rs.70 per kg from Rs.50 last week, and retail prices in local markets have touched Rs.80 per kg. This surge is expected to persist throughout the festive season, exacerbating concerns of rising inflation driven by food prices.

Government intervention, including measures like buffer stock sales and a possible ban on exports, may offer temporary relief, but the situation remains tense. If the trend continues, consumers could face higher prices well into the next year.

“Kashmir Will Never Be Pakistan”: Farooq Abdullah’s Fiery Warning to Pakistan After Terror Attack.

National Conference President Farooq Abdullah strongly condemned the recent terror attack in Gagangir, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of a doctor and six migrant workers. Speaking after the attack, Abdullah urged Pakistan to cease its support for terrorism, warning that continued violence would have “severe consequences.” He emphasized, “Kashmir will never become Pakistan,” and stressed the importance of peaceful coexistence.

The attack, carried out at a tunnel construction site on the Srinagar-Leh highway, killed two workers on the spot, with four more succumbing to injuries later. Abdullah expressed grief over the loss of innocent lives, calling the assault senseless and urging Pakistan to halt such activities for improved relations with India.

Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah condemned the attack as an act of cowardice and promised harsh retaliation by security forces. Jammu and Kashmir’s new Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, also labeled the incident “dastardly,” extending condolences to the victims’ families and stressing the need for peace and stability in the region.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has launched an inquiry to identify those responsible for the attack, which was reportedly carried out by two terrorists suspected of being part of an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba.

This incident underscores ongoing tensions in the region and highlights the impact of terrorism on development efforts and migrant workers in the area.

Adar Poonawalla Acquires 50% Stake in Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions for ₹1000 Crore

In a landmark business development, Adar Poonawalla’s Serene Entertainment has purchased a 50% stake in Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions for ₹1000 crore, edging out major contenders such as Reliance and Saregama. This strategic partnership seeks to blend the storytelling prowess of Dharma, known for Bollywood blockbusters like Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham and Brahmastra, with Poonawalla’s innovative business insights.

Karan Johar, who will remain at the helm as Executive Chairman with full creative control, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration. “This partnership allows us to honor Dharma’s legacy while scaling new heights,” he remarked. “My father’s dream was to create meaningful cinema, and with Adar’s visionary leadership, we are poised to expand our horizons.” CEO Apoorva Mehta will continue overseeing operations alongside Johar, ensuring the smooth transition into this new phase​.

Adar Poonawalla, known for his ventures in healthcare and innovation, commented, “Collaborating with my friend Karan Johar and a brand like Dharma is truly exciting. Together, we aim to create global content that resonates across generations.” This partnership reflects the growing trend of consolidation within the Indian film industry, where production houses are increasingly embracing fresh investments to cater to changing audience demands.

The deal highlights Dharma’s ambition to expand beyond traditional cinema into streaming and global content creation, aligning with the dynamic shifts in entertainment consumption. With this infusion of capital and business strategy, both parties aim to create a robust pipeline of innovative projects that can thrive in international markets, strengthening the Indian entertainment industry’s global footprint​.

Mounting Civil Lawsuits and Legal Woes Threaten Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs is facing a deepening legal crisis as civil lawsuits continue to build on the heels of his indictment for sex trafficking and racketeering. Prosecutors allege that Combs was involved in orchestrating a criminal enterprise that exploited women for forced labor and abuse. His legal team, however, argues that the government is unfairly withholding the names of accusers, hindering his ability to mount a robust defense.

Since his arrest, at least eight new accusers have come forward, filing civil suits that could provide prosecutors with additional information regarding the alleged victims. The emergence of these lawsuits intensifies pressure on Combs, as prosecutors are considering adding more charges or defendants as the investigation unfolds.

Combs, who has pleaded not guilty, remains in federal custody and insists on his innocence. His defense team has also raised concerns about the handling of evidence, citing a 2016 surveillance video allegedly showing Combs assaulting a former partner. His trial is scheduled for May 2025, and the legal battle could expand further, with potential implications for the entertainer’s career and reputation.

Blast Near CRPF School in Delhi’s Rohini Linked to Pro-Khalistani Post

New Delhi: Delhi Police are investigating a blast near a CRPF school in Rohini that occurred early Sunday morning. The explosion damaged part of the school wall and nearby properties but caused no injuries. Authorities suspect an improvised explosive device (IED) planted the previous night.

Shortly after the blast, a Telegram channel named “Justice League India” circulated a video with the message “Khalistan Zindabad,” suggesting it was a retaliation against actions targeting pro-Khalistani elements. The police have sought information from Telegram to trace the account’s origin.

Investigators from the National Security Guard and Forensic Science Laboratory are analyzing evidence, including a white powder believed to contain ammonium nitrate, to determine the bomb’s composition.

This incident follows a series of bomb threats targeting airlines, raising concerns about coordinated attempts to spread fear across the region.