Opinion: The Long, Agonising Adoption Process In India

There are three crore orphaned children in India, but only 3,500 to 4,000 children are available for adoption in a year and some 30,000 prospective parents have to wait for three years to bring home a child.

Taking note of this discrepancy, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud observed recently: "Why are they (Central Adoption Resource Authority) stalling adoptions? Why is CARA not doing it? Hundreds of children are awaiting adoption in the hope of a better life." The remarks were made when the Supreme Court was hearing two petitions flagging gaps that were delaying adoptions and making the entire process a sham. The practical difficulties of adoption were also highlighted in the court, with one of the judges bringing out the humane and human aspect and cost to the society.

CARA, a statutory body of the Ministry of Women and Child Development, functions as the central body for adoption of Indian children and is mandated to monitor and regulate in-country and inter-country adoptions. CARA primarily deals with the adoption of "orphan, abandoned and surrendered" children through its associated and recognised adoption agencies.

Due to red tape and lack of transparency, several thousand children are being deprived of home and the love of parents. With each month's delay, the children grow and age, and their chances of adoptability and adaptability diminishes. The prospective parents, too, lose their precious years doing cumbersome and complicated paperwork. Their financial condition suffers as they scout and wait their turn and are made to visit different adoption centres in the country.

The conditions of the shelter homes where these children are placed are also not hygienic, with funds and staff both short.

Deepak Sharma, Trustee, Udayan Care, an NGO for Child Rights, says there is no dearth of funds for his organisation but some shelters in India face financial challenges due to their location and the resources available. "Funding comes from a combination of sources. There is government funding in Mission Vatsalya for funding institutions, mostly funds come from donations from individuals, corporations, and other charitable entities or even from international organisations and foundations or corporate social responsibility," Mr Sharma explains.

In India, adoptions are governed by two laws - the Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956 (HAMA) and the Juvenile Justice (JJ) Act, 2015. Both laws have their separate eligibility criteria for adoptive parents. Those applying under the Juvenile Justice Act need to register on CARA's portal, after which a specialised adoption agency carries out a home study report. When it finds the candidate eligible for adoption, a child declared legally free for adoption is referred to the applicant.

Under HAMA, a court order, 'dattaka hom' ceremony or an adoption deed is sufficient to obtain irrevocable adoption rights. Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs are legalised to adopt kids under HAMA.

CARA carries out the tedious process to safeguard adoptive children from abuse at the hands of adoptive parents.

The Parliament passed the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) 2021, in order to amend the JJ Act, 2015. The crucial changes include authorising District Magistrates (DMs) and Additional District Magistrates to issue adoption orders under Section 61 of the JJ Act by striking out the word 'court'. These changes were carried out "in order to ensure speedy disposal of cases and enhance accountability," per the government statement.

However, the very purpose of these amendments has not been met as no time limit has been set up for the transfer of all pending adoption cases before the courts to the District Magistrates, which may end up in longer delays. Moreover, prospective parents are also not clear about the legality of an executive order on the adopted child's entitlements on succession and inheritance rights.

In August 2022, a parliamentary standing committee had expressed serious concerns over the decline in the number of children coming to adoption agencies over the years, saying it pointed to trafficking or a thriving illegal child adoption market. It's a fact that many unregistered adoption agencies are flourishing in the country; illegal and unregulated adoptions are being carried out. Some are involved in child trafficking or exploiting vulnerable children and their biological and adoptive parents.

Typically, there is a shorter queue for older children, children with special needs, or sometimes, even children from some regions. CARA has even introduced a new category of "Children for Immediate Placement" where the wait time may be considerably less.

Mr Sharma says generally, there is a demand for newborn and younger children, particularly infants and toddlers, in the adoption process. "Many adoptive parents prefer younger children as they desire to experience the early stages of a child's development and form strong bonds from the start. But now CARA is advocating for adoption of older children also," he adds.

A young single woman (name withheld) in Bengaluru has been in the queue for adoption for three years. She has completed all the paperwork, but her wait has been stretched by the adoption agency, where she is registered. She thinks that her adoption agency is giving preference to candidates who are better off than her financially. "My waiting time has been constantly increased without any reason. The counsellors are also of little help. Except for guiding us about the papers and forms to be filled, they have hardly been of any assistance in understanding the process or how it works," she says.

There is an urgent need to streamline the adoption process, simplify paperwork, transparency, and reduce the time limit, to the benefit of both the child and the adoptive parents. Loopholes, doubts, and ambiguities in current legislation must be plugged. Unless this happens, thousands of children will languish in shelter homes bereft of love, care and education.

(Bharti Mishra Nath is a senior journalist)

Disclaimer: These are the personal opinions of the author

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"A Performance To Be Remembered": Katrina Reviews Vicky's Sam Bahadur

Katrina Kaif turned cheerleader for her husband Vicky Kaushal at the screening of Sam Bahadur on Wednesday night. A day after, the Tiger 3 star, in her review of the film, praised husband Vicky for his "flawless" performance. On Thursday, Katrina Kaif shared a poster from Sam Bahadur alongside a moving note for her husband, who plays Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw in the film. She began her note by praising director Meghna Gulzar as she wrote, "Maghna Gulzar, such a poetic beautiful classic film, was transported to another era .. you can see your passion to telling his story and attention to detail in every shot."

She then went on to review her husband Vicky Kaushal's performance and wrote, "And SAM !!!!…..GRACE, HEROISM , GRIT. What a performance, flawless, I'm just astounded , you are too inspiring , true to your craft in the most brilliant integral way , was so proud to watch you shine your way across the screen . I've seen you this last year pour yourself into this film and transform into sam. A performance to be remembered."

See what Katrina Kaif posted:

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A post shared by Katrina Kaif (@katrinakaif)

Not only Katrina, but others from the film fraternity also complimented Vicky in their reviews of the film. Abhishek Bachchan, who previously worked with Vicky Kaushal in Manmarziyaan, wrote in his review, ""Saw #SamBahadur last night. The enormity of all that #FieldMarshalSamManekshaw did and achieved is overwhelming! And so beautifully told on celluloid by my favourite @meghnagulzar. It's a huge responsibility to portray one of India's greatest sons and she does it wonderfully. To…the entire cast and crew, you should be very proud and thank you for telling this story. @fattysanashaikh @sanyamalhotra07.My veerey, @vickykaushal09, what do I even say about you… you continue to set the bar so high for all of us and then so effortlessly jump over it as only Sam can. All I can say is “Well done, sweety."

Read his review below:

Saw #SamBahadur last night. The enormity of all that #FieldMarshalSamManekshaw did and achieved is overwhelming! And so beautifully told on celluloid by my favourite @meghnagulzar. It's a huge responsibility to portray one of India's greatest sons and she does it wonderfully. To…

— Abhishek 𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧 (@juniorbachchan) November 30, 2023

Sunny Kaushal, who attended a special screening of Sam Bahadur, wrote an elaborate note, praising his sibling for his acting prowess. He wrote, "What a film..what an amazing film this is @meghnagulzar thank you so much for making Sam Bahadur.. it is truly remarkable how you have so beautifully managed to show the life, the character, the love this man had for his country and uniform in 2.5 hours.. it made me laugh, cry, inspired and most importantly it made me realise what great courage and character means.”

The screening of Sam Bahadur was attended by some of the biggest stars in Bollywood. Vicky Kaushal's cheer squad included his wife Katrina Kaif, parents Sham and Veena Kaushal and brother Sunny among others.

See some pictures from last night:

Sam Bahadur, by Meghna Gulzar, will open to theatres on December 1. Vicky Kaushal plays the titular role in the film, which is based on the life of India's first Field Marshal, Sam Manekshaw. Fatima Sana Shaikh is also part of the movie.

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"From Today, We Are One": Randeep Hooda Posts Wedding Pics With Lin Laishram

Attention folks, the wait is finally over, Randeep Hooda has posted pictures from his intimate wedding with Lin Laishram. The pictures were shared by Randeep Hooda on Wednesday night, hours after the wedding ceremony in Imphal. In the pictures, the couple can be seen dressed in traditional Manipuri outfits. Randeep Hooda can be spotted in a white kurta while bride Lin can be seen wearing gold jewelery with her wedding attire. The photos give glimpses of the couple's jaimala among other rituals. "From today, we are One," read Randeep Hooda's caption.

Take a look at the post below:

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A post shared by Randeep Hooda (@randeephooda)

Earlier, an inside video from their wedding went viral in which the couple can be seen performing their wedding rituals. Take a look at the video below:

Lin re-shared pictures from her pre-wedding festivities shared by her friends and families on her Instagram stories. One of the clicks, captioned "Pre wedding glimpse," features the couple along with their families and friends. Take a look here:

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A post shared by पाल सिंह (@iampallsingh)

Randeep announced in an Instagram post that he would get married to Lin Laishram in an intimate ceremony in Imphal on November 29. The post read, "A date with Destiny. 29.11.2023. Taking a leaf out of Mahabharata where Arjuna married Manipuri Warrior princess Chitrangada, we are getting married with the blessings of our families and friends. We are filled with immense joy to share that our marriage will take place on the 29th of November 2023, Imphal, Manipur, followed by a reception in Mumbai. As we set to embark on this journey, we seek your blessings and love from this union of cultures, for which we are forever indebted and grateful. In love and light, Lin and Randeep." Take a look at the post here:

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A post shared by Randeep Hooda (@randeephooda)

Randeep Hooda is known for films like Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai, Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster, Heroine, Murder 3, Sarbjit, Baaghi 2, Radhe while Lin is a model, actor and businesswoman from Manipur.

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Kapil Sharma Slams IndiGo Over Delayed Flight, Calls Them "Shameless"

Actor and television host Kapil Sharma was not happy with his recent IndiGo flight experience. The comedian took to social media to express his frustration with the airline, highlighting a considerable delay and a surprising excuse that the pilot was stuck in traffic.He voiced his discontent with the delayed departure and expressed concern about the airline's reliability.

Mr Sharma wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, "Dear IndiGo, first you made us wait in the bus for 50 minutes, and now your team is saying pilot is stuck in traffic. What? Really ? We were supposed to take off by 8 pm and it's 9:20. Still, there is no pilot in the cockpit. Do you think these 180 passengers will fly in Indigo again? Never #indigo 6E 5149 #shameless."

Dear @IndiGo6E first you made us wait in the bus for 50 minz, and now your team is saying pilot is stuck in traffic, what ? Really ? we supposed to take off by 8 pm n it's 9:20, still there is no pilot in cockpit, do you think these 180 passengers will fly in indigo again ? Never…

— Kapil Sharma (@KapilSharmaK9) November 29, 2023

Mr Sharma later shared a video of passengers deboarding the plane, revealing that they were informed about a change of aircraft, necessitating a return to the terminal for security checks.

"Now they are deboarding all the passengers and saying we will send you on another aircraft, but again, we have to go back to the terminal for a security check," he wrote.

Now they r de boarding all the passengers n saying we will send you in another aircraft but again we have to go back to terminal for security check 👏👏👏👏👏 #indigo👎 pic.twitter.com/NdqbG0xByt

— Kapil Sharma (@KapilSharmaK9) November 29, 2023

He additionally posted another video where numerous passengers were seen inquiring about the flight delay, expressing their desire to witness some remedial action. However, all of them appeared visibly upset and frustrated over the prolonged delay.

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Opinion: What Higher Voter Turnout Could Mean For Rajasthan

The marginally high voter turnout in the Rajasthan assembly election is being claimed as a victory by both the BJP and the ruling Congress. While the BJP believes it's a sign of change, the Congress considers it popular support for its welfare schemes. The final voting percentage for 199 assembly seats in Rajasthan stood at 75.45 per cent (including postal ballots). The highest polling was recorded at Jaisalmer's Pokhran with an 88.23 per cent turnout and the lowest in the Ahore assembly seat at 61.24 per cent. More women (74.72 per cent) voted than men (74.53 per cent) this time. Rajasthan voted on November 25. The results on December 3 will decide whether the Congress retains power, defying the state's tradition of voting out the incumbent, or the BJP topples the Ashok Gehlot government. 

In the last assembly election in 2018, Rajasthan recorded a voter turnout of 74.72 per cent (including postal ballots). This year's voting is 0.73 per cent more than the last time. This trend of increasing voter turnout in assembly elections was also witnessed in other states like Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Mizoram, where elections were held at the same time.

In Rajasthan, the main fight is between the BJP and the ruling Congress. The BJP contested on all seats while the Congress left one seat - Bharatpur - for its ally Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD). In 2018 too, the Congress had set aside this seat for the RLD. Other parties in the contest are the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), CPI (M), Bharatiya Adivasi Party, Rashtriya Loktantrik Party and AlMIM. These parties may manage to win a few seats.

K Subrahmanya, a political analyst and journalist who has reported on Rajasthan elections in the past, cautions against reading too much into the higher turnout. "This largely static turnout figure may be suggestive of a kind of competitive mobilisation by rival contenders for power. The polling figure neither suggests a decisive anti-incumbency vote nor a pro-incumbent vote. Probably, it signals a much closer fight. The gap between the winner and the loser could be relatively narrow," says Mr Subrahmanya.

The election campaign revolved around appeasement politics, corruption, welfare schemes of the state and Centre, women's safety, and the demand for a caste census. Both the Congress and the BJP were plagued by rebels even though most sitting MLAs were renominated. In about 31 seats, rebels from both parties were instrumental in turning the contest into a triangular one.

What does it mean for political parties?

The Congress is relying on the support of its traditional social base - the minority, Scheduled Castes (SCs), Mali, and the Meena communities - and the party sees the higher turnout as proof of support from these communities. Both the BJP and the Congress claim the support of the Mali community, which voted for the Congress in 2018.

For the Congress, there may not be any anti-incumbency against Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, but it is a different story for its sitting MLAs. The party has fielded as many as 97 sitting MLAs, which may backfire.

People came in large numbers to vote in districts of northern Rajasthan like Jhunjhunu and Churu, Sikar, and Nagaur, which are Jat-dominated areas.

The Congress claims its share of Jat votes, based on farmer welfare measures like loan waivers and electricity subsidies by the Gehlot government.

Akhil Chaudhary, a Rajasthan-based lawyer and a member of the Congress, attributes the higher voter turnout to the popularity of pro-social security schemes of the government. "Rajasthan was the first state to bring a separate budget for the farming community. The seven guarantees promised in the manifesto have appealed to voters. One of the guarantees was a pension scheme of Rs 10,000 to the woman head in the family. This time too, like 2018, female voters were more than male voters," says Mr Chaudhary.

In the absence of any chief ministerial face, the BJP chose to fight the elections under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The party leadership seemed to tell the voters to trust the symbol and allow the party's democratic process to identify the chief ministerial candidate. During the last days of campaigning, veteran leader and former chief minister Vasundhara Raje was seen in meetings because the party's top brass realised she was still a force to reckon with. But the message is clear. The party is seeking new leadership and Ms Raje is out of favour.

There are many chief ministerial aspirants, including Rajsamand MP Diya Kumari, who is fighting from Vallabhnagar in Jaipur district. Alwar MP Mahant Balaknath Yogi - the 'Adityanath Yogi' of Rajasthan - was asked to contest from Tijara. Some union ministers from Rajasthan are also in the race for the top job if the BJP comes to power. Not naming a presumptive chief minister could go either way for the BJP.

A higher turnout of voters has been reported in eastern Rajasthan, which has a considerable presence of the Gurjar community. The community may have voted for the BJP in large numbers as they were upset with the Congress over the perceived diminished status of their leader Sachin Pilot. The Gurjar and Meena belt of eastern Rajasthan had voted for the Congress in 2018.

"On the ground closer to the polling were three factors - a high degree of the consolidation of their respective social/caste coalitions behind the Congress and the BJP; unpopularity of quite a significant number of sitting Congress MLAs who are in the race; and enthusiasm amongst sections of the voters for Gehlot's poll-oriented freebies to the voters," says Mr Subrahmanya.

Experts also say smaller parties like Rashtriya Loktantrik Party of Jat leader Hanuman Beniwal, Mayawati's BSP, Bharatiya Adivasi Party, Jannayak Janata Party and Azad Samaj Party of Chandrashekhar Azad may influence the voting pattern in at least 30 constituencies.

In this closely fought election in Rajasthan, predicting a clear winner is tricky as both the Congress and the BJP are evenly positioned and the smaller parties may end up playing a larger role in the government formation.

(Bharti Mishra Nath is a senior journalist)

Disclaimer: These are the personal opinions of the author

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Box Office: Keeping Up With Salman Khan's Tiger 3

Tiger 3 minted ₹ 2.60 crore (all languages) on day 16 at the domestic box office, as per a Sacnilk report. The total collection of the Salman Khan-Katrina Kaif film stands at ₹ 273.8 crore. Tiger 3, directed by Maneesh Sharma, witnessed a jump in its collection figures for day 15. The film made ₹ 6.75 crore, the report added. The third instalment of the Tiger franchise opened to theatres on November 12 (Diwali day). In the spy-thriller, Salman and Katrina reprise their roles as Avinash Singh Rathore aka Tiger and Zoya. Emraan Hashmi is also part of the project. 
 

Tiger 3 has become “the highest-grossing Diwali release in the history of the Indian cinemas.” The film has collected ₹ 447 crore (worldwide). The makers, Yash Raj Films, have announced the super hit news on Instagram. Along with the poster, the makers wrote, “Catch the high-octane action unfolding in cinemas now. Watch Tiger 3 at your nearest big screen in Hindi, Tamil & Telugu. Book your tickets.”

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A post shared by Yash Raj Films (@yrf)

After Tiger 3's worldwide success, Katrina Kaif expressed her gratitude towards fans. In a conversation with news agency ANI, the actress said, “The Tiger franchise has only given me love since 2012! So, it is an amazing feeling to have received so much warmth for over a decade now. Ek Tha Tiger, Tiger Zinda Hai and now Tiger 3 are films that have been a part of my cinematic journey and growth as an artist and it's something that I cherish greatly.”

Katrina added that each instalment of the Tiger franchise has challenged her “physically and mentally.”

Tiger 3 also saw Shah Rukh Khan aka Pathaan. The actor featured in a cameo appearance. Speaking about the experience, Salman Khan said, “Our off-screen chemistry is better than our on-screen chemistry. When the on-screen chemistry is so good, you can understand the off-screen chemistry.”

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Madhya Pradesh Teen Raped In Car By Man She Befriended On Social Media

A 17-year-old girl was allegedly raped by a youth who had befriended her on social media and his three friends in a car in Madhya Pradesh's Gwalior, police said on Monday.

Police have invoked provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act since the victim is a Dalit, an official said, adding that nobody has been arrested so far.

The incident occurred on November 21 but a complaint was lodged four days later as the girl kept mum because she was threatened by the accused against disclosing the incident, an official said.

Additional Superintendent of Police Niranjan Sharma said the girl and her family lodged a complaint.

"The girl became friends with a youth on Facebook last year. On November 21, her male friend took her to a deserted forest area in a car where he and his three friends raped her and also threatened to kill her," he said.

A case was registered under sections 376 (Punishment for rape), and 377 (unnatural act) among others, along with the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

According to sources in police, the victim has claimed that one of the accused is a close relative of a politician.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Mumbai Indians Squad: List Of Players Retained, Released And Traded

Mumbai Indians announced their list of retained and released players on Sunday. While Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Tim David and Jasprit Bumrah were among the star players that were retained by the side, the likes of Jofra Archer, Tristan Stubbs and Chris Jordan were released by them. It is interesting to note that Mumbai traded Cameron Green to Royal Challengers Bangalore while they roped in Hardik Pandya from Gujarat Titans.

Mumbai Indians had earlier traded West Indies all-rounder Romario Shepherd from Lucknow Super Giants. IPL had released a media advisory to announce Shepherd's trade for a fee of Rs 50 lakh which read, "Romario Shepherd has been traded to Mumbai Indians (MI) from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) trading window ahead of the IPL 2024. Shepherd, who has played 4 IPL matches, representing LSG and Sunrisers Hyderabad, was traded to MI for his existing fee of INR 50 Lakh."

It is worth noting that Mumbai Indians during mid-November officially appointed former Sri Lanka pacer Lasith Malinga as their bowling coach, promptly filling the void left by the departure of Shane Bond. The 40-year-old Malinga, who played for the five-time champions in his prime, will join the coaching team led by Mark Boucher and his former teammate Kieron Pollard ahead of the upcoming season.

Mumbai Indians' Retained Squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Dewald Brevis, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Tim David, Vishnu Vinod, Arjun Tendulkar, Shams Mulani, Nehal Wadhera, Jasprit Bumrah, Kumar Kartikeya, Piyush Chawla, Akash Madhwal, Jason Behrendorff, Romario Shepherd (traded from LSG), Hardik Pandya (traded from GT).

Players Released By Mumbai Indians: Mohd. Arshad Khan, Ramandeep Singh, Hrithik Shokeen, Raghav Goyal, Jofra Archer, Tristan Stubbs, Duan Jansen, Jhye Richardson, Riley Meredith, Chris Jordan, Sandeep Warrier, Cameron Green (traded to Royal Challengers Bangalore).

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Citizenship Amendment Act Final Draft Likely By March-End: Union Minister

Union Minister of State for Home Ajay Mishra on Sunday said that the final draft of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act or CAA is expected to be ready by March 30 next year.

The BJP MP from Uttar Pradesh, while addressing a gathering of the Matua community at Thakurnagar in North 24 Parganas district, asserted that nobody can snatch citizenship rights from Matuas, who had fled religious persecution in Bangladesh.

"The process to roll out CAA has gained momentum in the last couple of years... some issues are being sorted out. Nobody can snatch citizenship rights from the Matuas. By March next year, the final draft of the CAA is expected to be ready for coming into force," he said, sharing dais with local BJP MP and Union minister Santanu Thakur.

The CAA seeks to grant Indian citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan entering India before December 31, 2014.

Reacting to the claim, Trinamool Rajya Sabha MP Santanu Sen said, "The BJP remembers Matuas and the CAA only during elections. The saffron party will never be able to roll out CAA in West Bengal".
"The BJP's false claims are becoming clear to the Matuas and others. The saffron party will be rejected by all in next year's elections," he said.

Mr Sen said the Trinamool Congress has ensured the rights of Matuas as citizens of the country.

"We will continue to work for the community throughout the year, unlike the BJP will only gives false promises," he added.

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"Nothing Will Stop Us": Israel PM Netanyahu Meets Troops In Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday met with security forces inside the Gaza Strip, his office said.

היום בסיור בעזה: נמשיך עד הסוף - עד לניצחון. pic.twitter.com/e2aEA7Gfa4

— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) November 26, 2023

Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with soldiers and commanders and received a security briefing, according to the statement from his office.

"Nothing will stop us, and we are convinced that we have the strength, the power, the will and the determination to achieve all the goals of the war, and that is what we will do," he said.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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"Love Your Optimism": PMs Reply To Post By Author On India

People of India are trendsetters and trailblazers when it comes to innovation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday and welcomed the world to invest in the country.

PM Modi's remarks came in response to a post on X which called India an ancient civilisation that is simultaneously like a startup country.

"I love your optimism and will add- the people of India are trendsetters and trailblazers when it comes to innovation," PM Modi said on X, formerly Twitter.

I love your optimism and will add- the people of India are trendsetters and trailblazers when it comes to innovation.

We welcome the world to invest in our nation. India won't disappoint. https://t.co/1OYtST7YX4

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 26, 2023

"We welcome the world to invest in our nation. India won't disappoint," the prime minister said.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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"You Have Violated...": Poll Body Issues Notice To Telangana Minister KTR

The Election Commission on Saturday issued a notice to ruling BRS working president and IT Minister K T Rama Rao for allegedly visiting a government institution here and using the platform for political activities and sought a reply from him by Sunday afternoon.

The EC in its notice said it had received a complaint from Congress MP Randeep Singh Surjewala, wherein it was alleged that Rama Rao, a star campaigner for BRS visited the office of 'T-works' and interacted with a large number of youth employed in the office on November 20.

The Commission obtained a factual report on the matter from the Telangana Chief Electoral Officer (CEO).

Referring to the provisions of MCC that the ministers shall not combine their official visit with electioneering work and shall not also make use of official machinery or personnel, the Commission in its notice observed that, Rama Rao, is not only a contesting candidate in the upcoming assembly election but also a start campaigner of the BRS.

"Whereas, the Commission is, prima facie, held that that by visiting to a Government Institution and using the platform of T-works for political activities and combining your official visit with political/private visit, you have violated the instruction of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC)," the Commission said in its notice.

The Commission asked Rama Rao to explain his stand in respect of the visit and use of a Government Institute for political purposes by 3 PM on November 26.

In the event of no response from Rama Rao's side within the stipulated time, it will be presumed that he had nothing to say in the matter and that the EC will take appropriate action or decision in the matter without making any further reference to him.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Hamas Delays Second Release Of Hostages Until Israel Lets Aid In Gaza

The armed wing of Hamas said it had decided to delay Saturday's scheduled second round of hostage releases until Israel committed to allowing aid trucks to enter northern Gaza.

Hamas' al-Qassam Brigades said the hostage releases would be delayed if Israel did not adhere to the agreed terms for the release of Palestinian prisoners.

There was no immediate Israeli response to the statement. Earlier an Israeli military spokesperson had told France's BFM television station that, barring last-minute changes, 13 Israeli hostages were expected to be freed.

He said 39 Palestinian prisoners would be released in return.

Under the truce deal between Israel and Hamas, mediated by Qatar, a total of 50 hostages are to be exchanged for 150 Palestinian prisoners, some of them convicted on weapon charges and violent offences, over four days.

In the first exchange on Friday, 13 Israeli women and children - out of around 240 hostages captured by Hamas fighters on a killing spree in southern Israel on Oct. 7 - were released. Twenty-four jailed Palestinian women and 15 teenagers were released from Israeli jails.

Saturday's setback came just hours after Egypt, which controls the Rafah border crossing into southern Gaza through which vital aid supplies have resumed, said it had received "positive signals" from all parties over a possible extension of that deal.

Diaa Rashwan, the head of Egypt's State Information Service (SIS), said in a statement that Cairo was holding extensive talks with all parties to reach an agreement which would mean "the release of more detainees in Gaza and Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails."

Israel has said the ceasefire could be extended if Hamas continues to release hostages at a rate of at least 10 per day. A Palestinian source has said up to 100 hostages could go free.

Israel and Hamas have said hostilities would resume as soon as the truce ends, although U.S. President Joe Biden said on Friday there was a real chance of extending the truce.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Case Against TV Journalist For Filming, Harassing Women Leaving Bar

The Chennai Police have filed a case against a TV journalist of News Tamil 24x7 and others for their alleged involvement in the sexual harassment of women at a bar in the early hours of Monday.

Reports said the women leaving the bar were not only filmed without consent but also subjected to abuse and obscene comments. The footage, telecast by several TV channels, sparked outrage on social media.

The charges include sexual harassment, explicit sexual behaviour, wrongful restraint, unlawful assembly, singing obscene songs, and intent to insult a woman's modesty.

The police said they are investigating the matter.

The incident highlighted the need for strict action against any form of harassment and the responsible use of media platforms.

Investigators said trouble started when five members who were denied entry at a private bar after the bar timing ended created a ruckus. Many customers were reportedly watching the world cup cricket final match and the subsequent programmes since Sunday night.

On hearing about this, the accused Sudharsan and the others came.

"While taking video, a few unknown people used abusive, denigrating and obscene remarks against the women coming out of the bar, which were telecast later in various channels," the police said in a statement.

Neither News Tamil 24x7 nor the journalist Sudharshan has responded to the allegations or the police charges.

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"Can't Be Fishing Inquiry": Experts To NDTV On Hindenburg Case Petitioners

The Supreme Court on Friday raised tough questions against petitioners in the case linked to a report by a George Soros-funded group that targeted the Adani Group. "Why must we take foreign reports as the truth? We are not rejecting the report, but we need proof. So what proof do you have against the Adani Group?" Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud told the petitioner's lawyer Prashant Bhushan. "A publication's work can't be treated as a gospel of truth," Chief Justice Chandrachud said.

The Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), funded by billionaire George Soros, had alleged insider trading in the Adani Group via two foreign investors. The Adani Group has called them "recycled allegations" and another concerted bid by Soros-funded interests supported by a section of the foreign media to revive the "meritless Hindenburg report".

Experts speak to NDTV on the development:

"The Supreme Court very rightly pointed out three important questions to the petitioner's counsel. The court said look, when you take information from random public places, you should check it. It is easy to make allegations cooked up outside this country... The expert committee set up by the Supreme Court has already said there is no evidence of regulatory failure. They (petitioners) are relying on newspaper reports and other material, but where is the evidence? The report (by the George Soros-backed group) was meant to destabilise the country." - Ashwani Dubey, lawyer, Supreme Court.

"What the Supreme Court said is that the petitioners had approached the court on the basis of the Hindenburg report... Essentially, what is happening is that after the court appointed the panel, the petitioners have now come up with questioning the integrity of the panel members, which the court today said is not correct. The Congress party has been raising the issue on many platforms. I don't see this gaining any traction... This has the potential of becoming Rafale 2.0 for the Congress by barking up the wrong tree... When the petitioners are talking about the integrity of the panel and conflict of interest, they should also be wary of the conflict of interest of the people who prepared the (Hindenburg) report. So we can't give clean chit to the people who have prepared the report. They don't have honest intention. This report was predominantly used by shortsellers to make money. The SEBI has regulations to protect the interest of small investors..." - Amitabh Tiwari, political analysts.

"Given a choice, I would say that one can't file false charges against anybody, but levelling charges against regulated institutions and statutory bodies is more serious. Anybody and anyone who does this should have concrete proof. The court was very clear the charges levelled have no basis. The intent and timing of the report was suspicious, I have been saying from the start..." - JN Gupta, former executive director, SEBI.

"... They (petitioners) are asking for a fishing inquiry. It is never permitted in a court, that they make an allegation and we go and find evidence. That kind of thing is never permitted in court. This was exactly politically motivated. The credibility of SEBI was upheld. It is doing a perfect job... Hindenburg, we all know, is a short seller, who targeted Adani. We need to be careful. You also saw Mahua Moitra matter where Adani was targeted..." - Desh Ratan Nigam, lawyer, Supreme Court.

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Indian Medicines For 4 Rare Diseases Cut Treatment Cost By Nearly 100 Times

Aided by government agencies, Indian drug companies have, in just one year, managed to develop medicines for four rare diseases that cut down their cost of treatment by as much as 100 times. Most of these diseases are genetic and many of the patients are children. 

The treatment for Tyrosinemia type 1, for instance, which used to require an annual expenditure of Rs 2.2 crore to Rs 6.5 crore, now costs Rs 2.5 lakh for the same duration. If untreated, a child dies of the disease by the age of 10. The drug for treating the disease is called Nitisinone.

The three other rare diseases are Gaucher's Disease, which results in liver or spleen enlargement, bone pain and fatigue; Wilson's Disease, which causes a copper deposit in the liver and psychiatric symptoms; and Dravet/ Lennox Gastaut Syndrome, which causes complex seizure syndromes.

The cost for Gaucher's disease, with Eliglustat capsules, has been brought down from Rs 1.8-3.6 crore per year to Rs 3.6 lakh, for Wilson's Disease, with Trientine capsules, from Rs 2.2 crore to Rs 2.2 lakh per year, and for Dravet, with Cannabidiol oral solution, from Rs 7-34 lakh per year to Rs 1-5 lakh.

India has between 8.4 crore and 10 crore patients who suffer from rare diseases. Nearly 80% of these diseases are genetic, which means that symptoms are seen, and require treatment, at an early age. 

A year ago, the companies, which include Biophore India Pvt. Ltd. (Zenara Pharma), Laurus Labs Ltd, MSN Pharmaceuticals and Akums Drugs & Pharmaceuticals, began working on medicines for 13 types of rare diseases. Medicines for the four diseases have been developed and those for the others are expected soon, said an official, adding that there is a plan to deliver medicines to Jan Aushadhi Centres as well. 

Some of the other diseases for which cheaper medicines are being developed are Phenylketonuria and Hyperammonemia. 

Work is also on to reduce the cost of the one-time treatment for Spinal Muscular Atrophy, the injection for which costs Rs 16 crore. 

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Twice In 2 Days: Drilling Stops In Tunnel After Machine Hits Metal Object

In the second such setback in two days, drilling at the Uttarakhand tunnel where 41 labourers are trapped had to be stopped on Friday evening after the auger machine encountered a metallic object. The blades of the machine had hit a pipe on Thursday evening and drilling had resumed after 24 hours, only to be stopped again.

Addressing a press conference earlier in the day, senior officials had said only 10-12 metres of drilling was left for the rescuers to reach the trapped construction workers and that ground penetrating radar had revealed that there were likely to be no major metal obstacles for the next five metres.

"They (a team of ground penetrating experts) could not say this with 100% accuracy but what they are expecting is that there is no continuous metal object, like girders, pipes and metal plates, in the next 5.4 metres. They have pointed out some other hurdles, but this is good news," Uttarakhand Secretary Neeraj Khairwal, who is the nodal officer for the rescue operation, had said.

Officials said that, with the drill stopped, efforts are being made to manually inch closer to the trapped workers but the rescue is unlikely on Friday night.

"The auger machine has encountered some difficulty again and that's why it's being dismantled. Simultaneously, efforts are being made to get to the trapped workers manually. We are analysing the debris and trying to figure this out," said an official.

'Workers Okay'

Officials said the workers are mentally stable and physically fit despite being trapped for 13 days.

"They are adequately clothed and when we speak to them, they say they will walk out on their own. That's the kind of mental strength they have," an official. He added that the labourers are also speaking to their families and one of the workers, who has been in such a situation before, has been helping his colleagues keep their morale high.

"The labourers are being given cut fruits, hot chapatis, daal and sabzi. These are being pushed through pipes in bottles," the official said.

The under-construction tunnel in Uttarkashi is part of the ambitious Char Dham project, a national infrastructure initiative to enhance connectivity to the Hindu pilgrimage sites of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. The labourers got trapped when a portion of the tunnel had collapsed on November 12.

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Bill Gates Says 3-Day Work Week Possible With AI

Billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates believes that technology will not replace humans, but it could make a 3-day work week possible. The billionaire shared his views while talking to South African comedian and writer Trevor Noah on his podcast 'What Now'. 

The 68-year-old Microsoft cofounder said that AI will not be taking jobs but will "change it forever." In the 45-minute-long conversation, the billionaire talked about how AI and technology could change lives for good. 

When Mr Noah asked about the threat of artificial intelligence to jobs, Mr Gates said there could one day be a time when humans "don't have to work so hard."

Mr Gates said, "If you eventually get a society where you only have to work three days a week, that's probably OK."

He even said there could exist a world where "machines can make all the food and the stuff." 

The billionaire has highlighted both the risks and the benefits of AI in his previous interviews and blogs. In July, he addressed the risks of AI. 

"I don't think AI's impact will be as dramatic as the Industrial Revolution, but it certainly will be as big as the introduction of the PC. Word processing applications didn't do away with office work, but they changed it forever," Mr Gates said at the time. "Employers and employees had to adapt, and they did."

He also pointed out the risks of AI, including "misinformation and deepfakes, security threats, changes to the job market, and the impact on education."

"This is not the first time a new technology has caused a big shift in the labour market. I don't think AI's impact will be as dramatic as the Industrial Revolution, but it certainly will be as big as the introduction of the PC," he wrote.

"Another thing that's clear to me is that the future of AI is not as grim as some people think or as rosy as others think. The risks are real, but I am optimistic that they can be managed," he added.

 

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Why Was Rinku Singh's Last-Ball Six vs Australia Not Counted - Explained

India started the T20I series against Australia in some style as they notched a two-wicket win on Thursday. There was no shortage of thrill in the match. Courtesy Josh Inglis' 110, Australia notched a huge total of 208/3 in 20 overs. In reply, Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan hit half-centuries as India cruised towards the target. However, both got out and it was left to Rinku Singh to take India over the line as India needed seven runs off six balls. 

More drama ensued as India lost the wickets of Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi and Arshdeep Singh in the last over by Sean Abbott to go eight down. With India needing one off one ball, Rinku Singh hit a huge six to take India to win. However, the six was not counted and there was confusion over India's final score. The umpires then adjudged the delivery as no-ball. Since it was a no-ball, and India had got the required one run and had already won by its courtesy. Hence, the six was not counted. India ended on 209/8 in 19.5 overs.

Half-centuries by Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan helped India secure a two-wicket win over Australia in the first T20I of a five-match series at Visakhapatnam on Thursday.

This is India's highest T20I run-chase, outdoing chase of 208 against West Indies back in 2019.

India is 1-0 up in the series.

In the chase of 209, India started off well with Yashasvi Jaiswal hitting a four and six in the first over, but a miscommunication with Ruturaj Gaikwad ran out the latter for zero. India was 11/1 in 0.5 overs.

Jaiswal looked to up the attack in the next over, but Matthew Short got his first T20I wicket, removing Jaiswal for 21 off 8 balls, with two fours and two sixes. India was 22/2 in 2.3 overs.

Ishan and Suryakumar Yadav, the skipper were the fresh pair. After a brief lull, they both started hitting shots. Pacer Sean Abbott went for 20 runs in the fifth over and was hit for a four and two sixes.

India reached the 50-run mark in 4.5 overs.

At the end of the powerplay, India was 63/2, with Suryakumar (26*) and Ishan (14*) unbeaten.

The ninth over pulled India back in the game big time, with young spinner Tanveer Sangha hit for two sixes and a four by Ishan. India reached the 100-run mark in 9.1 overs.

Halfway through the innings, India was 106/2, with Suryakumar (39*) and Suryakumar (40*) unbeaten.

Ishan reached his half-century, his fourth in T20Is in just 37 balls, with two fours and four sixes. The left-hander attempted to punish Sangha with a four and six. However, a third attempt to clear the ropes was caught by Short. Ishan walked back for 58 off 39 balls, with two fours and five sixes. India was 134/3 in 12.3 overs.

India reached the 150-run mark in 14.2 overs.

Tilak played some good shots but lost his wicket to Sangha after being caught by Stoinis at extra cover for 12. India was 154/4 in 14.5 overs.

A knuckle ball was delivered by Jason Behrendorff and Suryakumar skied it, got caught by Aaron Hardie. Surya went back for 80 off 42 balls, with nine fours and four sixes. India was 194/5 in 17.4 overs.

India reached the 200-run mark in 18.5 overs with the help of a four from Rinku Singh.

With ANI inputs

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Over 80 Members Of A Family "Wiped Out" In War In Gaza

Sahar Awwad is seated between her two nephews. Together, they are among the few survivors of an extended Gaza family of which at least 80 members have been killed in nearly seven weeks of Israeli bombardment. The entire family had fled first to a hospital in Khan Yunis, then to a school, which was initially transformed into a camp for the displaced then a clinic, in Rafah near the border with Egypt, the southernmost point of the besieged enclave.

Only 35 kilometres (20 miles) separated them from their former home in Gaza City, but the journey took them a week.

Last Friday, a strike hit their home in Gaza City's Sheikh Radwan neighbourhood. "More than 80 family members died. The Awwad family was wiped out," Awwad told AFP.

"The survivors rushed to extract the dead and wounded from the debris and Israel struck a second time," she said.

"We could only bury those whose bodies had been sent flying all the way to the neighbours' homes" by the force of the explosion, she said.

They were unable to reach those under the rubble.

Her nephew Mossaab, 14, has had his leg amputated and his face is still covered in scars. His cousin Abboud, 12, has an IV drip protruding from his abdomen.

Abboud "doesn't know yet that his mother, two of his brothers, his sister and his grandmother are dead", Awwad said in tears.

Only his father survived. When their home was struck, they were both already being treated in hospital.

"That the only reason why they weren't injured," Awwad said.

"My older brother and his entire family are dead. My sister fled the north and is dead along with her husband and their children" even though they were in the south, she added.

Mossaab's extended family has "completely disappeared". Some of Awwad's other relatives have survived, only because they had already fled.

Theirs is just one among many families devastated by the 47 days of bombardment and siege on the tiny Palestinian territory, in which more than 14,100 people have been killed, according to the Hamas government.

The Israeli military campaign comes in response to Hamas's shock raids into Israel on October 7 which Israel says killed around 1,200 people, most of them civilians.

On the road south, Awwad's son Mohammed, who was pushing his grandmother's wheelchair, was detained by the Israeli military.

"They released him yesterday, but he's in a terrible condition. He was tortured and stripped of his clothing.

"He couldn't speak and tell us what happened."

A few members of the family remain in Gaza City, refusing to flee until they find their loved ones and bury them.

"May God have mercy on those who were lost, but I am in terror over the rest. No one is left but them."

Fida Zayed was only 13 when she had her first son Udai. Today, he is 20, and they "grew up together", she said, along with her second son Qussai, 19, and her daughter Shahad, 17.

Zayed was with Udai just a few days ago.

"The last thing he said to me was that he was waiting for the truce on Friday, and he asked me to prepare him a feast of rice and chicken," she said.

"Dozens died in a heavy air strike. I walked over 50 bodies of dead and injured people, looking for Udai.

"Everything was covered in dust and smoke. I could only identify him by his belt," she said.

"We were all standing together, but God chose him as a martyr."

The family had to bury Udai themselves, she recalled.

"We were displaced to a school in Rafah the next day. I didn't feel like I was injured in my back," she said.

"The pain in my heart and chest made me forget about my body. My heart bleeds, not my back."

When she arrived at the hospital in Rafah, doctors found her wound was infected. It was cleaned and she received 17 stitches.

Before he died, Udai had received a rare Israeli permit to travel to the occupied West Bank to attend the Palestinian Authority's military academy in Jericho.

He had been due to start on October 12, but he "travelled to another place with no return", she said.

"Gaza is dark as a grave. I hope me and my children die here so we don't have to mourn each other," the mother said.

"The living here are the ones who are dead."

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Chennai Police Files FIR Against Mansoor Ali Khan For Remark About Trisha

The Chennai police has filed an FIR against Tamil film actor Mansoor Ali Khan for his alleged distasteful and derogatory comments on southern star Trisha. The All Women Police Station at Thousand lights has booked him for sexual harassment and intent to outrage modesty of a woman. The action comes in the wake of a complaint by the National Women's Commission. Asked if he A police officer told NDTV "We would first send him a notice". In a recent media interaction that went viral, Mansoor Ali Khan expressed disappointment at the absence of bedroom scenes, a staple in his villainous roles, in the blockbuster film Leo, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, starring leading actress Trisha.

His remarks have sparked outrage, particularly from Trisha herself, who, on X (earlier known as Twitter), condemned his comments as sexist and misogynistic. Trisha tweeted, "I will never share screen space with Mansoor Ali Khan. His remarks are not just disappointing but reflect a mindset that has no place in our industry." Joining Trisha in denouncing Mansoor Ali Khan, singer Chinmayi and actor Khushbu also expressed their disapproval.

In a video clip shared on WhatsApp groups, Khan stated, "They don't cast villains. He (Director Lokesh Kanagaraj) should speak for me too. They don't let us rape. I dropped the idea of speaking at the 'Leo' film function as others could think I am triggering clashes."

He added "I was so excited. Let me tell you here, When I was told I'd act with Trisha, I thought there would surely be bedroom scenes. I thought I can do like I had thrown Khushbu and Roja on the bed. What friend, is there a rape I've not done in 150 films ? Is there any outrage I've not done? Villains are not cast. They took Trisha in the hand to white snowy Kashmir like how Hanuman carried Chiranjeevi hill. They didn't show her at all and carried her back without her feet touching the ground."

Amidst the backlash, Mansoor Ali Khan has refused to apologise. He defended himself in a statement, asserting that his comments were taken out of context and manipulated, potentially linked to the release of his upcoming film and speculations about his political entry. He clarified that his remarks were meant to be light-hearted reflections on the changing portrayal of women in films compared to the past and that its not on an individual. He claims "I only spoke positively about Trisha that she was safely taken on air to Kashmir and returned. There is no scope to act with heroines unlike films of the past".

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"Overconfidence Bhi Zyada...": Afridi On India's World Cup Final Loss

Former Pakistani captain Shahid Afridi slammed Team India following their ODI World Cup 2023 loss against Australia at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. Speaking live on a Pakistan-based TV channel, Samaa TV, Afridi said that overconfidence led to Rohit Sharma's side's downfall in the tournament. He also said that after winning 10 matches in the tournament, overconfidence was too much in the team.

"Jab aap continue game jeete ja rahe ho toh overconfidence bhi zyada ho jati hai. Toh woh cheez aapko marwah deti hai (When you have won all the games continuously, the 'overconfidence' is too much. So, this could lead to their downfall)," Afridi told on Samaa TV.

Coming to the match, India bundled out on a score of 240 in 50 overs. On a tough batting surface, skipper Rohit Sharma (47 in 31 balls, with four boundaries and three sixes), Virat Kohli (54 in 63 balls, with four boundaries) and KL Rahul (66 in 107 balls, with one four) posted important knocks.

Mitchell Starc (3/55) was the pick of the bowlers for Australia. Skipper Pat Cummins (2/34) and Josh Hazlewood (2/60) also bowled well. Adam Zampa and Glenn Maxwell got a wicket each.

While chasing 241 runs, India had the Aussies down at 47/3. Knocks from Travis Head (137 in 120 balls, with 15 fours and four sixes) and Marnus Labuschagne (58 in 110 balls, with four boundaries) left the Indian team without answers and guided them to a six-wicket win.

The World Cup finalists will now compete in a five-match T20I series which will begin on Thursday in Visakhapatnam.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Vehicle Explodes At US-Canada Border Crossing, FBI Says Investigating

A car exploded at the Rainbow Bridge, a border crossing between the US and Canada at Niagara falls, the United States' Federal Bureau of Investigation said.

#FBI Buffalo statement on investigation at the Rainbow Bridge: pic.twitter.com/jRaGLL8sU8

— FBI Buffalo (@FBIBuffalo) November 22, 2023

The FBI Buffalo is coordinating with local, state and Federal law enforcement agencies to investigate the incident. "The situation is very fluid, that's all we can say at this time," FBI Buffalo tweeted.

The car exploded at the Rainbow Bridge crossing and the vehicle was up in flames with black plume of smoke soaring into the sky. Several cars were parked in the area but were not damaged due to the explosion. 

It is still unknown what triggered such a massive explosion at the border crossing.

Governor of New York State, Kathy Hochul, said she has been "briefed on the incident on the Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls and we are closely monitoring the situation."

I've been briefed on the incident on the Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls and we are closely monitoring the situation. State agencies are on site and ready to assist.

— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) November 22, 2023

"State agencies are on site and ready to assist," she added.

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