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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
Fans 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.
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!
Round 2 of the triple header, the Mexican GP delivered a fantastic race, though not as eventful as last one in United States. Ferrari of Carlos Sainz took the pole and dominated on its way to victory, Lando Norris followed in 2nd and Charles Leclerc in 3rd. Mercedes were nowhere near McLaren and Ferrari, Max Verstappen antiques got him humongous 20 seconds penalty, Fernando Alonso DNF in his 400th Grand Prix, Tsunoda-Albon crash, Sergio Perez last place, and there’s more. The Mexican GP in tricky conditions of Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez delivered a blockbuster race weekend.
This weekend was eventful right from the start. Whether it is Max Verstappen suffering from engine related issues in practice sessions or Alex Albon’s crash with rookie Oliver Bearman and then holding Bearman responsible for it. Future F1 stars got to drive F1 cars in first practice session as part of their development program. While in second practice session, much of the time was taken by Pirelli’s new tyre testing. The grid was closely matched, two Ferraris, two McLarens and Max Verstappen’s Red Bull were in contention for the win. There was uncertainty on who will be better than the other.
With the same uncertainty, qualifying began on Saturday afternoon. Sergio Perez (Red Bull) and Oscar Piastri (McLaren) had a disastrous qualifying getting knocked out in Q1. For Sergio it was just terrible, since it was his home race and he needed a solid race to prove himself worthy of that Red Bull seat. Yuki Tsunoda’s late red flag in dying moments in Q2 trapped drivers like Liam Lawson, Fernando Alonso from improving their time. The top 10 shootout in Q3 was amazing. The Ferraris set early pace, while Carlos Sainz had 2 perfect laps, Charles Leclerc on the other hand messed his final run. It was Carlos on the pole, followed by Max Verstappen, Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc. Two Mercedes, Two Haas, Williams of Alex Albon and Pierre Gasly in Alpine completed top 10.
Comes the race day, Max Verstappen gets a better launch and overtakes Sainz for the race lead down the long straight to turn 1. Meanwhile in the midfield, Yuki Tsunoda and Alex Albon had a contact sending the Japanese driver into the wall at turn 1. It brings out the safety car on first lap itself and Albon also retired from the damages sustained with the contact with Yuki. Sergio Perez on the other hand received 5 seconds for a false start.
At the safety car restart, Max does well to break DRS from Sainz. But the Spaniard comes back at him on Lap 9 at turn 1 to re-take the lead. After getting past Verstappen, Sainz disappeared in the distance like Leclerc did in Austin. Soon title rivals Verstappen and Lando tangled in wheel-to-wheel racing allowing Leclerc to get past them to p2. Verstappen received 2 penalties of 10 seconds each, for two incidents- for forcing Norris off the track and for leaving the track and gaining an advantage. The penalties forced Verstappen to do damage recovery as from here it was impossible to finish ahead of Lando, who was in a superior McLaren.
Ferrari led 1-2 for majority of the race until Lando Norris pulled off a blinder in 2nd stint taking out Charles Leclerc for 2nd. Leclerc suffered from low grip at the rear, and after losing 2nd to Lando, he boxed for fastest lap. Mercedes raced no one except themselves, battle between George Russell and Lewis Hamilton was sublime. Russell held off Hamilton with a damaged front wing but ultimately lost the battle. The top 5 consisted of Carlos, Lando, Leclerc, Lewis and Russell. Max Verstappen salvaged a 6th place finish despite struggling on hard compound yet again.
Sainz at the top step of Mexican GP
Carlos Sainz desperately wanted a win before leaving Ferrari at the end of this year. He achieved it, gave it everything he had and did it finally. Mexico is the largest Spanish speaking city in the world, and Carlos Sainz is the first Spanish driver to win here in F1. This was his 4th F1 win and first time in his career when he won multiple races in a season.
Back in the midfield, Haas finishing 7th and 9th, took a comfortable lead on its rival VCARB. Midfield was tightly packed, some interesting battles, collisions and Sergio Perez being at the receiving of all the mishap. He sustained a damage while battling Red Bull junior Liam Lawson. Oscar Piastri recovered from p17 to P8, Gasly took one point for Alpine.
Fernando Alonso, the man who was entering his record 400th grand prix had a weekend to forget. He was trapped in red flag in his final run in q2 and then a DNF from the race due to mechanical issues.
Picture Courtesy- The Race
Shame a legendary achievement of one of the sport’s greatest ended this way. This sums up the career of Fernando Alonso. After 2007, his car/team have let him down on a million occasions.
This was Ferrari’s second consecutive win and they now sit at 2nd in constructors. Just 29 points separates McLaren and Ferrari in the constructors championship. Red Bull led this championship for majority of the season and have now lost to McLaren and Ferrari in the standings. Thanks to the implosion that hampered their car development and McLaren, Ferrari catching up, Red Bull is unlikely to climb up the order given how badly Perez is performing. It is the superiority of Max Verstappen who is still holding on his lead in drivers championship.
Sergio Perez was a fan favorite once upon a time. His ability to outperform midfield cars landed him a seat at Red Bull in 2021. But he has only been a shadow of his younger self. Barring few races here and there, Verstappen destroyed Perez. Its no secret that if your teammate is Max, you will always get minimum. In 2023 and again in 2024, he nosedived after a brilliant start to the start. While Max was breaking records for fun in 2023, Perez was down in midfield or crashed at every opportunity. Things got even worse in 2024 as Red Bull lost its advantage over others. At a time when driver makes the difference, Perez battles car likes Williams, Alpine. His on-track struggles has led to problems in his family as well. While Perez finally had a decent weekend in Baku, he crashed with Sainz in last minutes of the race leading his father to a pre-heart attack.
Battling all those, he had the best chance to shine again. In front of his home crowd, on the soil where he was born, where he grew up and dreamt of being an F1 racer. But he failed. Finishing last behind Sauber, Alpine, Williams in a Red Bull cannot be justified. At this point, it just feels bad. Maybe his time in F1 is over. It could have ended better. He is by far the most successful Mexican driver in F1. Though his time seems to be over. Red Bull being the kind of organization they are, won’t take it very well that Perez is costing them constructors.
Back to the racing, F1 heads to Brazil this weekend to complete the triple header. Brazil is undoubtedly the best race on the calendar. The atmosphere, energy, crowd, the racing it provides is second to none. When grid is this close, a blockbuster is a certainty. Ferrari has been cooking after the summer break. Podium in Zandvoort, Baku, victories in Monza, Austin and Mexico. McLaren went toe-to-toe and their advantage between Canada-Belgium is what puts them ahead of everyone. Title battle, unpredictability in races, controversies F1 is truly back.
NEW DELHI: On October 29, 2024, during the celebration of Dhanvantari Jayanti and the 9th Ayurveda Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for multiple healthcare projects across India, valued at over Rs.12,850 crore. The event will promote India’s traditional medicine system and coincide with the global celebration of Ayurveda Day in more than 100 countries.
The theme for this year’s Ayurveda Day is “Ayurveda for One Health,” highlighting the integration of human, animal, plant, and environmental well-being. The PM’s initiatives aim to strengthen the country’s healthcare infrastructure and further the global reach of Ayurveda.
Key highlights include the inauguration of new medical institutions, the establishment of research centers, and the launch of advanced healthcare facilities, positioning India as a leader in holistic wellness and traditional medicine.
Mumbai: Bollywood’s beloved 1995 blockbuster Karan Arjun, starring Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan, is returning to the big screen on November 22, 2024, marking its 30th anniversary. Directed by Rakesh Roshan, the film became iconic for its blend of action, drama, and reincarnation themes, securing its place as one of Indian cinema’s memorable hits.
Salman Khan surprised fans by sharing a teaser of the re-release on social media, captioned with the famous dialogue, “Mere Karan Arjun aayenge,” a nostalgic nod to the film’s timeless appeal. His post emphasized that the film will return to theaters across the globe. Meanwhile, Hrithik Roshan—who worked as an assistant director on the movie—also celebrated the re-release, noting the impact the film had on Bollywood.
Karan Arjun centers around two brothers, Karan and Arjun, who are brutally killed by their uncle but are reborn to fulfill their mother’s wish for revenge. The ensemble cast includes Rakhee Gulzar, Kajol, Mamta Kulkarni, and Amrish Puri, whose performances contributed significantly to the film’s success. Known for its emotional story, gripping performances, and hit songs, the film was a major commercial success upon its original release.
This re-release offers fans a chance to relive the magic of the film on the big screen, a fitting tribute to its legacy after 30 years.
Fans 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.
