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Strengthening Indo-Pacific Stability and ASEAN Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited Vientiane, Laos, to attend the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit. The visit reflects India’s ongoing commitment to fostering peace, stability, and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, with a focus on strengthening its partnership with ASEAN nations. Laos, serving as the ASEAN chair for 2024, hosted the high-level meetings, offering an opportunity for India to engage directly with regional leaders.

The summits came at a significant time, marking a decade of India’s “Act East” policy, aimed at enhancing economic, political, and cultural ties with Southeast Asia. During the ASEAN-India Summit, Modi emphasized the need to further the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and ASEAN, addressing key challenges such as regional stability, trade, and connectivity. The prime minister also underscored the shared cultural and historical heritage between India and Southeast Asia, with particular emphasis on Buddhism and the Ramayana.

At the East Asia Summit, which includes ASEAN nations and key partners such as the U.S., China, and Japan, leaders discussed pressing issues related to regional security and economic cooperation. Modi’s bilateral talks with Laos focused on improving connectivity and exploring opportunities for future collaboration, reinforcing India’s strategic role in the broader Indo-Pacific framework. His visit highlighted India’s proactive approach to strengthening ties with ASEAN while ensuring peace and prosperity in the region.

Samsung Invests $29 Million in AI Startup Liner

Liner, an AI-powered search engine tailored for students and academics, has secured $29 million in a Series B funding round, led by Samsung Venture alongside Intervest and Atinum Investment. This latest investment brings the Seoul-based startup’s total funding to $33 million, positioning it as a growing player in the academic tech space.

Co-founded by Luke Jinu Kim and Chanmin Woo, Liner specializes in offering credible, high-quality information retrieval from databases such as government records and scientific journals. With a user base of 10 million, including students from prestigious U.S. universities like UC Berkeley and Texas A&M, the platform focuses on academic disciplines rather than general AI tools. Two-thirds of its paying users are based in higher education institutions in the United States.

Liner’s generative AI capabilities enable users to ask complex questions related to academic research, such as analyzing literary works or conducting scientific calculations. The company is committed to reducing misinformation by strictly using verified sources, setting it apart from broader AI services like ChatGPT.

With plans to expand its workforce, particularly in San Francisco, Liner aims to strengthen its presence in the U.S. market. Samsung’s investment underscores the tech giant’s growing interest in AI-driven solutions, supporting Liner’s mission to revolutionize academic research and learning. (with inputs from agencies)

Delhi to Ignite India’s Tallest 211-Foot Ravan Effigy for Dussehra

New Delhi: Delhi is set to witness a spectacular Dussehra celebration this year, as the Sri Ram Lila Society unveils what is believed to be India’s tallest Ravan effigy, standing 211 feet tall in Dwarka’s Sector 10. The towering structure took over four months to construct and will be burned on October 12, 2024, as part of the traditional Dussehra festivities, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.

According to Rajesh Gehlot, head of the organizing committee, the height of the effigy represents the growing societal challenges and vices like pride, greed, and anger. The effigy burning, which also includes structures representing Ravan’s brothers Kumbhkaran and Meghnath, is a key feature of the festival, symbolizing the destruction of these negative forces.

The event has garnered significant attention, with invitations extended to prominent political figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The venue has been designed with artistic entry gates inspired by South Indian temple architecture, adding a unique cultural element to the celebration.

Given the anticipated large crowd, security has been bolstered with over 50 Delhi Police personnel, 200 volunteers, and 100 civil officers ensuring safety measures are in place. Dussehra, also known as Vijaya Dashami, is celebrated nationwide to mark Lord Ram’s victory over Ravana.

With the countdown to the event underway, Delhi’s Dussehra festivities promise to be a grand affair, with the 211-foot effigy taking centre stage as a symbol of victory over evil.

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar Disburses ₹225 Crore to Flood-Affected Families

Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has released ₹225 crore as financial assistance to families impacted by the recent floods, bringing much-needed relief to over 45 lakh people in the state. The fund disbursement is part of a larger ongoing relief operation to help those affected by two waves of devastating flash floods, which have severely impacted over 30 districts.

Last week, the Bihar government began distributing ₹7,000 to each flood-affected family, with the cumulative relief allocation now standing at ₹532.22 crore. The latest ₹225 crore installment comes as the state continues to prioritize relief efforts amid widespread devastation.

In addition to direct financial support to families, the government has pledged ₹590 crore in aid for farmers whose crops were destroyed during the floods. Crop losses have been estimated at ₹229 crore in the first flood wave, primarily caused by the rising Ganga, and ₹261 crore in the second wave, triggered by water discharges from rivers in Nepal.

The scale of the disaster has prompted both state and central authorities to take action. A high-level meeting in New Delhi, chaired by Debashree Mukherjee, Secretary of the Ministry of Jal Shakti, reviewed ongoing flood mitigation efforts. The discussions focused on critical projects like the Kosi-Mechi Link, which aims to improve flood control, irrigation, and water supply in rural Bihar, along with other initiatives such as the Indrapuri Reservoir and Tilaiya-Dhadhar Diversion Scheme.

Dr. Suraina Malhotra: A Pillar of Social Welfare and Community Service

Mumbai: Dr. Suraina Nilesh Malhotra, a prominent figure in Maharashtra’s political landscape, has made significant contributions not just within her role in the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) but also as a medical professional and social worker. While she holds various influential positions—such as Chairperson of the All India IT Cell & Social Media for the Nationalist Mahila Congress and National General Secretary—her focus on public service and social welfare stands out as the hallmark of her career.

A practicing doctor with an M.B.B.S. (Bom); D.P.B from Grant Medical College, Mumbai, Dr. Malhotra has extended her professional expertise beyond the clinic by organizing free medical camps and awareness programs. These initiatives include breast and cervical cancer detection, mammography camps, pap smear testing, and rehabilitation programs for women and children affected by AIDS. Her work in the medical field earned her letters of appreciation from Sharad Pawar himself, recognizing her commitment to community health.

Dr. Malhotra has consistently taken part in disaster relief efforts, from helping flood victims in Maharashtra in 2019 to assisting farmers in distress by contributing to educational funds for the children of those who had committed suicide. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she organized vaccination drives, provided free masks, sanitizers, and ration kits to vulnerable populations, and ensured medication for those with chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension.

Her passion for women’s empowerment has driven various initiatives, including food grain distribution, couple counselling on domestic violence, and education on “good touch, bad touch” for children. Dr. Malhotra has also spearheaded campaigns on eye and organ donation, emphasizing the importance of such life-saving contributions.

Environmental conservation is another area where Dr. Malhotra has been active, participating in tree plantation drives and standing alongside citizens in the “Save Aarey” movement to protect Mumbai’s green spaces. Her involvement extends to global platforms, having served as Chief Political Advisor India at the Global Diplomatic Council (The Netherlands), and she has been recognized with numerous awards, including the ‘Rashtriya Ratna Award 2019’ for her work in social service and health.

Dr. Malhotra’s multifaceted role also encompasses cultural contributions. As a filmmaker, she won a special award for her documentary film “Drashtaa,” which she produced and directed in honour of Sharad Pawar’s birthday.

Her extensive list of accolades, including the Dadasaheb Phalke Indian Television Award and the Global Peace Excellency Award, underscores her commitment to a life dedicated to improving the lives of others. Whether through her political platform, medical expertise, or social initiatives, Dr. Suraina Malhotra remains a relentless advocate for the welfare of her community.

Hurricane Milton Hits Florida

Hurricane Milton made landfall on Florida’s western coast near Siesta Key late Wednesday, bringing extreme winds and heavy rains. Classified as a Category 3 storm, it caused severe storm surges and flooding across Sarasota County. Officials warned of a dangerous night as Milton’s 120 mph winds wreaked havoc, toppling trees and shattering glass panes. The storm comes just two weeks after Hurricane Helene, further burdening an already devastated region. Airports in Tampa and Sarasota remain closed as emergency services brace for further damage.

Happy Birthday, Rekha: Celebrating the Timeless Diva of Bollywood

Mumbai: On this special day, Channel 6 Network extends its heartfelt wishes to one of Bollywood’s most iconic and beloved actresses—Rekha, the eternal beauty who has mesmerized audiences for decades with her talent, grace, and magnetic screen presence.

Born on October 10, 1954, Rekha’s journey in the film industry has been nothing short of legendary. From her debut in 1966 as a child artist in Rangula Ratnam, to her breakthrough in Bollywood with Sawan Bhadon (1970), Rekha’s career has spanned over five decades, during which she has continuously reinvented herself and remained a timeless star. Known for her incredible versatility, Rekha has portrayed an array of memorable roles in films like Umrao Jaan, Silsila, Muqaddar Ka Sikandar, and Khoon Bhari Maang, earning her critical acclaim and the admiration of millions.

Beyond her acting prowess, Rekha is revered for her ethereal beauty, iconic style, and enigmatic personality. She embodies elegance in every sense—whether it’s her classic Kanjeevaram sarees or her ability to embrace both modern and traditional roles with grace. A true fashion icon, Rekha continues to inspire generations with her poise and timeless appeal.

Her performances are marked by intense emotional depth and sincerity, particularly in portraying strong, independent women. Films like Umrao Jaan (1981), where she portrayed a courtesan with heart-wrenching vulnerability, and Khoon Bhari Maang (1988), where she played a woman seeking revenge, are testament to her acting genius. These films not only garnered her awards but also cemented her place as one of the finest actresses in Indian cinema.

Rekha’s enduring legacy is a reminder of the golden era of Bollywood. While she has embraced the quiet elegance of a recluse in recent years, making fewer public appearances, her aura continues to captivate audiences. Today, as she turns a year older, the magic she brings to the screen remains ageless, just like her.

Here’s to celebrating the timeless diva who has defined beauty, elegance, and talent in Indian cinema—Happy Birthday, Rekha!

Ratan Tata: A Legacy of Visionary Leadership and Compassion

Mumbai: The Nation expresses profound sorrow at the demise of Shri Ratan Tata, an iconic industrialist and a guiding light for India’s business world. Ratan Tata, former chairman of Tata Sons, passed away on October 9, 2024, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond business.

Ratan Tata’s leadership saw Tata Group expand globally, acquiring companies like Jaguar Land Rover and Corus Steel. However, his contributions were not confined to the boardroom. Tata’s philanthropic vision helped establish institutions in education, healthcare, and rural development. He was instrumental in launching initiatives like Tata Trusts, which focused on areas like clean drinking water, sanitation, and rural upliftment.

Under his leadership, the Tata Nano was introduced—a revolutionary effort to provide affordable cars to middle-class India. His commitment to nation-building was recognized with several awards, including the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honor.

Dignitaries across the nation have offered heartfelt tributes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Tata as a “visionary business leader” and “compassionate soul” who championed causes like education and animal welfare. Business leaders such as Anand Mahindra and Gautam Adani remembered him for his selfless dedication to India’s growth. Political figures, including Sharad Pawar, Rahul Gandhi, Supriya Sule and Yogi Adityanath, also expressed their condolences, highlighting his lasting impact on both business and society.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to attend the funeral of industrialist Ratan Tata in Mumbai on Thursday, as the nation mourns the loss of a business titan. The funeral will be held at Worli, where a state funeral will be accorded in honor of Tata’s contributions to India. Shah will represent the Government of India at the service, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently attending international summits in Laos, has conveyed his condolences to Noel Tata, Ratan Tata’s brother.