Month: January 2024

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Goa Lite Blogs Sports

Goan cyclist rode 1200km TriGoa Atal Sethu to Ram Sethu LR ride on a bicycle

Dattaraj Lawande completed a grueling cycle ride of 1200 km and is among 17 riders to have completed this feat. Rahul Laud reports

Thirty-nine-year-old, Dattaraj Jaiprakash Lawande, is a  married businessman – a member of the Global Chamber of Saraswat Entrepreneurs born and brought up in Panaji, Goa. Dattaraj who is into his family business of Renting out Power Gensets across Goa, Lawande Power Rentals chose to take a long bicycle ride – a 1200kms LRM ride organized for Audax India Randonneurs (AIR) that Represents Audax Club Parisien (ACP) under the able supervision of TriGoa Randonneurs representing Audax India. This 1200kms LRM ride started at 6 am on 26th January’2024 from Probyk, Goa’s favorite cycle shop, and had to complete the entire ride within 90 hrs I.e. by midnight on 29th January.

Dattaraj managed to finish the ride by 5:45 pm on 29th January which was within 84 hrs. This 1200kms TriGoa Atal Sethu to Ram Sethu LR ride had  22 participants, and 17 have managed to finish the ride and they are awaiting results for who all have been granted the LR Title!  He was seated on the saddle for hours together, pedaling at a steady pace, with saddle sores, muscle cramps, and body fatigue, managing on sleep with limited time to Eat and sleep  he completed the ride, Dattaraj pointed out.

He is inspired and fascinated by his friends at Panjim Cycling Club, Goa, and FIT Swaggers Club, Goa, especially Ganesh Pai Vernekar (Bhushan Bhai) and Mr. Prasad Pangam who played key roles, his parents, wife, and daughter are his strongest support and the mental support from a rock-solid group of close friends. Since his childhood, Dattaraj reminisced, he always loved “adventure”. He has been riding on bicycles during school and as he grew up fascinated by cars and bikes as any other average kid would usually be. He was an average student in studies and sports when schooling but had a liking for adventure and high-risk sports and he was sure about trying himself in each area when life would permit him. His parents encouraged and supported him consistently, he said.

He took up motorsports as a sport, participated in state and national off-road competitive events, and managed to leave his mark there until the year 2018! He got into cycling as a sport a few months before the Covid pandemic when his friends introduced him to Audax events, BRM, SRs, and LRs. He managed to participate in most cycling events across Goa. He has completed 2 each of 200, 300, 400, and 600 km BRM rides in one single year and was granted double SR title in the single year 2023.

BREVETS DE RANDONNEUR MONDIAUX (BRMs) are rides of fixed distances that are to be completed within specified time limits. Randonneur events are 200 km, 300 km, 400 km, 600 km, 1000 km, and 1200 km. The longer events are held over multiple days.

Dattaraj says, “ Cycling makes me happy, and keeps me fit physically and mentally. It increases my physical strength and makes me feel good. Cycling gets me into the company of good inspiring friends and makes me a part of a community. Above all keeps my mind busy.”

A randonneuring event is called a randonée or brevet (pronounced breh-VAY), and a rider who has completed a 200 km event is called a randonneur. The most common type of event is a brevet, referring to the certificate or card (called brevet in French) the participant receives signifying completion of a particular distance.

Randonneur events are 200 km, 300 km, 400 km, 600 km, 1000 km, and 1200 km. The longer events are held over multiple days, he stated.  Along the course, you check in at various places to show that you completed the entire course. During longer events, sleep breaks are planned at intermediate points. In the end, you get officially homologated and have the option to request a medal if you complete the course within the time limit. If you like going fast, there usually is a group who try to see how quickly they can complete the course, Dattarj explained. But the results are listed alphabetically, and everybody gets the same medal, so it is not a race. Here long rides are challenging for anybody, but every finisher is a winner, with a sportsman spirit he concluded.

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-Top News Europe USA

Russia warns against return of U.S. nukes to Britain

The Russian diplomat further stressed that such a move would not strengthen the U.S. security, nor would it strengthen the security of Britain….reports Asian Lite News

A potential return of U.S. nuclear weapons to Britain would be a dangerous step, which could only undermine the European security, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said Tuesday.

The statement came amid media reports that the United States is planning to place nuclear weapons in Britain for the first time in 15 years in response to an alleged threat from Russia.

“Regarding the topic of the hypothetical return of American tactical nuclear weapons to the British territory, I would like to warn in the most definite and strict way against this destabilizing step,” Ryabkov said.

The Russian diplomat further stressed that such a move would not strengthen the U.S. security, nor would it strengthen the security of Britain.

He said that this would “increase the overall level of escalation” and pose a threat to the European security.

Moscow has its own ways to monitor what is happening in order to draw appropriate conclusions, Ryabkov said.

“We would like to warn NATO … against further escalation, which is becoming increasingly dangerous,” he said.

Nuclear missiles, once stationed at RAF Lakenheath and withdrawn in 2008 amid reduced Cold War tensions, could potentially return, according to Pentagon documents obtained by The Guardian.

The UK Ministry of Defence said it maintains a longstanding policy of neither confirming nor denying the presence of nuclear weapons at specific sites, in line with UK and NATO practices.

ALSO READ: Israel-Hamas Ceasefire on Horizon

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Food Lite Blogs Recipes

Elevate Your Mornings with Creamy Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is more than simply a spread; it’s a tasty lifestyle choice that has become a staple at grocery stores, making it a household favourite. This nutty delight, influenced by Western culture, has become an important part of active Indian families. Including peanut butter in your daily diet, especially in your breakfast, can be a wholesome choice since it offers not only vital nutrients but also dietary fiber and good fats like monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), which are beneficial for your health.  

Breakfast is widely hailed as the most important meal of the day, and you can always choose to kick start your morning with a delightful spread of creamy and crunchy peanut butter. Dr. Shweta Rastogi, Clinical dietitian and lifestyle medicine consultant says, “Beyond being a powerhouse of nutrition, this delightful nut-based butter adds a unique twist to your breakfast routine. Using peanut butter without added refined sugar is more beneficial; rather one can opt for peanut butter with jaggery. Several peanut butter variants can make your morning meal even more delicious, including peanut butter with real chocolate, crunchy and creamy peanut butter.”  

Checkout some protein-rich breakfast recipes with peanut butter that you can try as we observe National Peanut Butter Day.

Peanut Butter Baked Oats

Ingredients: 

2 cups of Oats

1 tsp baking powder

Salt (as per taste)

½ a tsp Cinnamon

5 tsp Saffola creamy Peanut Butter

2 tsp Honey

1 egg

½ a tsp Vanilla Extract

2 cups Milk

Method: 

Take a bowl and add oats, baking powder and salt and mix them well

In another bowl, add peanut butter and honey and mix them well

Add cinnamon powder and salt to the peanut butter and honey and mix them properly

Now, slowly start mixing milk to the peanut butter mixture and stir well

Combine both mixtures in a bowl until a thick consistency is achieved

Take a baking bowl or tray, put the mixture and bake it in the oven for 25-30 mins at 350 F

Take out the baked oats from the oven and top it up with peanut butter and chopped dry fruits, serve hot!

Peanut Butter Smoothie Bowl 

Ingredients: 

2-3 tsp of peanut butter with real chocolate

2 bananas

1 small bowl of flaxseed

½ a tsp vanilla extract

1 cup of milk

Method:

Add 2 bananas, chocolate peanut butter, flaxseed meal, vanilla extract and 1 cup milk to the blender

Blend the ingredients and keep adding milk to the blender for a smooth and creamy consistency

Transfer the smoothie into a bowl. Top it up with dry fruits or chopped fresh fruits as per your liking. Keep it in the fridge for a few minutes and serve cool!

Banana and Peanut Butter Pancake


Ingredients: 

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

2 tbsp baking powder

1 tbsp honey

½ tsp salt

1 ¼ cups milk

1 ripe mashed banana

⅓ cup of Saffola creamy peanut butter

1 large egg

1 tbsp oil/butter

1 tsp vanilla extract

Method: 

Preheat a griddle over medium heat

In a bowl, mix all-purpose flour, baking powder and salt 

In a separate bowl, combine milk, mashed banana, peanut butter, egg, oil/butter and vanilla extract, pour the flour mixture with the batter till its thoroughly mixed

Pour the batter in 1/4 cup portions in a ladle onto the preheated griddle and cook until tiny air bubbles form on the top for 2 to 5 minutes

Flip and continue cooking until it is brown on one side for another 2 to 3 minutes 

Take the pancakes in a plate and serve it hot with some peanut butter on top

Incorporating peanut butter into your morning routine not only provides a delicious start to the day but also adds a boost of nutrients and creativity to your food. Whether you’re into morning smoothies, baked oats, or quick recipes like pancakes and toasts, Saffola Peanut Butter adds delicious taste and nutritional value to your everyday breakfast. Enjoy the creamy and crunchy goodness, making your mornings even more delightful.

National Peanut Butter Day is celebrated on 24th January annually.

ALSO READ-Bite sized deliciousness: Laddooh by Chef Sugandha Saxena

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Arts & Culture Lite Blogs

Celebrating Two Decades of Puppetry Excellence

At the festival, France will present ‘Wings And Roots’ by Fanny Tissot-Giordanna/Compagnie Arketal from National Theatre, Nice…reports Asian Lite News

The Ishara International Puppet Theatre Festival’s 20th edition is scheduled to run from February 16 to 25 at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi and Tagore Theatre in Chandigarh.

Produced by Teamwork Arts, it is supported by the Ishara Puppet Theatre Trust.

In addition to Indian artists, this edition will feature performers from Brazil, Spain, Korea, Turkey, the US, Sri Lanka, Taiwan and Russia. Both verbal and non-verbal performances will be part of the festival.

At the festival, France will present ‘Wings And Roots’ by Fanny Tissot-Giordanna/Compagnie Arketal from National Theatre, Nice.

The musical menagerie Air Giants by Pia Fraus will be directed by Beto Andretta from Brazil.

From the US, ‘The Kurt Hunter Marionettes’ will be presenting a performance entitled ‘Penguin In My Pocket’, directed by Laura Wilhelm. Russia’s most famous puppet character will be brought back to life with a celebration of 400 years of tradition. Petrushka, performed by Novosibirsk Regional Puppet Theatre and directed by Svyatoslav Pankov.

‘Hiss & Arf’ is a non-verbal performance from Taiwan, presented by ‘Puppet On The Workbench’ and directed by Mong-Han Liang/Chia-Hao Chen.

Sevincer Puppet Theatre from Turkey will showcase ‘Mucit’ (Inventor), directed by Yalcin Gonenc.

From Sri Lanka, the ‘Traditional String Puppet Show’, performed by Mango Friends Puppet Society, and directed by Indika Gamini will be presented.

The Culture Art Bakery FFWANG from Korea will present ‘Hong Dongji & Isimi’, directed by Hwang Seokyong.

Trapusteros Teatro from Brazil will present Mamulengo De La Mancha, directed by Izabela Brochado.

The Ishara Puppet Theatre Group will present ‘Be Yourself’, directed by Dadi D. Pudumjee — an adaptation of Hans Christian Anderson’s ‘The Ugly Duckling’.

Dadi D. Pudumjee, Festival Director and founder of ‘The Ishara Puppet Theatre Trust’, said that the 20th edition will prove to be a milestone as countries from across the globe will be part of the edition.

Sanjoy K. Roy, Managing Director, of Teamwork Arts and Producer of the festival, said, “Ishara has changed the way people view the art and theatre of puppetry and puppet-making. Countless artistes and artisans have benefitted from the festival over the years, which has brought together some of the most outstanding productions from across the world.”

ALSO READ-Don’t Miss Out: ‘The Ocean’ Returns To London’s West End For 7-Week Stint

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Lite Blogs

Smart Parenting in the Digital Age

Numerous research from the past have indicated that excessive screen time can negatively impact children’s physical and mental health, hinder cognitive development, and impede social interactions…reports Asian Lite News

In today’s digital age, parenting presents an unprecedented set of challenges. With children growing up in a world saturated with online content, the line between constructive engagement and harmful addiction has become increasingly blurred. Baatu Tech, the pioneer in Smart Parenting Solutions in India, announced the results of a recent survey that shed light on the alarming concerns of Indian parents regarding screen addiction, gaming, and adult content consumption among children. The survey conducted among 3000 participants revealed that an overwhelming 95% of Indian parents are deeply concerned about screen addiction, while 80 percent and 70 percent expressed worries regarding gaming addiction and adult content consumption, respectively.

Numerous research from the past have indicated that excessive screen time can negatively impact children’s physical and mental health, hinder cognitive development, and impede social interactions. One area of particular concern is the rising trend of gaming addiction among children. According to a study published in the Journal of Behavioral Addictions, approximately 3-4% of children worldwide experience problematic gaming behaviours. This addiction can lead to a variety of detrimental effects, such as poor academic performance, disrupted sleep patterns, and decreased physical activity. Moreover, prolonged exposure to violent or aggressive game content has been linked to increased aggression and desensitization to real-life violence.

Parents and educators must be aware of the signs of gaming addiction and take proactive measures to ensure a healthy balance between gaming and other activities in children’s lives. By promoting alternative forms of engagement and setting clear boundaries, we can help children develop a well-rounded approach to technology and prevent the negative consequences of excessive gaming.

“Baatu Tech understands the concerns of Indian parents and is committed to addressing the pressing issue of screen addiction and inappropriate content consumption among children,” said Sandeep Kumar, Founder and Managing Director of Baatu Tech. “We believe that parenting in the digital age requires constant vigilance, open and honest communication, and a well-informed approach. Our Smart Parenting Solutions empower parents to foster digital literacy while safeguarding their children’s well-being.”

ALSO READ-How parenting can support LGBTQ+ child

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-Top News Arab News Asia News

Israel-Hamas Ceasefire on Horizon

Several rounds of mediatory talks held at the behest of Qatar, Egypt and the US at Doha, Cairo and Paris seems to be bringing in results….reports Asian Lite News

A ceasefire to the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas for release of hostages is likely by the coming week.

According to Israel Defence Ministry officials, discussions are on at a higher level and a ceasefire leading to the release of a batch of women, elderly and sick Israeli hostages from the custody of Hamas will commence soon.

While Hamas has been insisting on a complete withdrawal of Israel Defense Forces (IDF) for the next round of ceasefire, Israel had backed out of it in total.

Several rounds of mediatory talks held at the behest of Qatar, Egypt and the US at Doha, Cairo and Paris seems to be bringing in results.

Sources in the Israel defense ministry told IANS that Israel side has agreed upon the release of a large number of Palestinians who have been arrested and jailed in Israel in exchange for the hostages in the custody of Hamas.

According to information available after the release of women, sick and elderly civilians in Hamas custody, a second batch of hostages would also be released in which women Israeli soldiers in Hamas custody would be freed.

CIA chief William Burns and Mossad Chief David Burnea were also present in the recent mediatory talks held at Paris and have ironed out certain issues pertaining to ceasefire during their talks with Qatar and Egyptian mediators.

Sources clarified that there could be a one month ceasefire in hostilities but Israel has not agreed for the safe passage of top Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar and Mohammed Deif from Gaza into either Qatar or Turkey.

Israel Defense Minister Yoav Gallant had clearly stated that the Israel army would smoke out Sinwar from his hideout and would kill him.

ALSO READ: Israeli forces storm West Bank hospital

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Lite Blogs Woman

WIN Sparks Collaborative Synergies on Global Platforms

Panellists emphasized the enduring impact of current actions on future generations, collective progress, and the importance of bringing others along in the journey of leadership. The event facilitated an exchange of diverse perspectives, enriching the discourse on women’s leadership and sustainable practices…reports Asian Lite News

Women Inspiring Network (WIN) has concluded a triumphant trilogy of panel discussions amidst the opulent setting of Davos, Switzerland, during the World Economic Forum 2024. Orchestrated by  Stuti Jalan, Founder of Women Inspiring Network, along with Invest India, Ministry of Women & Child Development, Confederation of Indian Industry, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and World Innovation Economics, the three inspiring panels featured an assemblage of influential leaders and experts delving into the crux of critical issues in women’s leadership, sustainability, innovation, and the transformative prowess of women in the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Amidst the snow-capped peaks and opulent surroundings, WIN had the privilege of rubbing shoulders with other prominent networks and global leaders who were captivated by the aura of our discussions. The air was electric with excitement as synergies of collaboration crackled through the corridors of Davos. Visionaries from various networks and influential leaders expressed keen interest in joining forces with Women Inspiring Network for a collaborative venture in the coming year.

“As we reflect on the dialogues shaping women leadership that unfolded at Davos during World Economic Forum 2024, we are thrilled by the prospect of future collaborations. The interest and support extended by other networks and global leaders have been nothing short of extraordinary. We are poised to turn these connections into powerful alliances that will undoubtedly shape the discourse and initiatives in the years to come. The spirit of collaboration is a beacon guiding us forward, and we eagerly anticipate the unfolding chapters of shared endeavours at Davos next year,” remarked Stuti Jalan, Founder of Women Inspiring Network.

Trailblazing Women – In a New Era of Innovation

In collaboration with Invest India, the second panel, “Trailblazing Women: In a New Era of Innovation,” explored sustainability, innovation, and leadership. The distinguished panel included Sanskriti Thakur (Chairwoman, Tower Capital), Komal Sharma (Founder, TT Consultants), Aarti Gupta (CIO, Family Office DM Gupta & Anikarth Ventures), Santhosh Jayaram (Global Head Sustainability, HCL Technologies), and Isabella Grosmaitre (Founder and CEO, Goodman and Co).

Panellists emphasized the enduring impact of current actions on future generations, collective progress, and the importance of bringing others along in the journey of leadership. The event facilitated an exchange of diverse perspectives, enriching the discourse on women’s leadership and sustainable practices.

Women and AI – 2 Powerful Forces Changing the World

The final panel, “Women and AI: 2 Powerful Forces Changing the World,” was hosted in collaboration with the Ministry of Women & Child Development, CII, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Held at the We Lead Lounge P57, it featured Tarja Stephens (Co-founder, Mia, Mission Impact Academy), Faramarz Farhoodi (Chairman, AI Nexus Healthcare Inc), Mark Turrell (Founder, unDavos), and Rashmi Joshi (CEO & Founder, Asha AI).

The discussion revolved around the impact of women in AI, democratizing access to healthcare, and the regulatory measures necessary for responsible AI development. Panellists stressed the importance of AI education, empowerment, and inclusivity in shaping the future.

These panel discussions mark a significant contribution to the global discourse on women’s leadership, sustainability, innovation, and the transformative power of AI. Women Inspiring Network remains committed to fostering positive change and empowerment through collaboration.

Women in Leadership Panel Discussion

The inaugural panel discussion on Women in Leadership took place at the Sunstar Hotel, Davos, featuring prominent leaders across diverse industries. The esteemed panel included Kanika Tekriwal (CEO, JetSetGo Aviation Services Pvt Ltd), Daniella Foster (Executive Board Member, Bayer’s Consumer Health Division), Aarti Gupta (CIO, Family Office DM Gupta &Anikarth Ventures), Iryna Papusha (Co-founder and President, Women Leaders for Ukraine), Pragati Sureka (Psychologist, Author), and Karl Lillard (Professional Speaker and AI Expert).

The panel delved into the unique challenges faced by women leaders and provided valuable insights into their experiences. Discussions ranged from fostering inclusive environments to the resilience and holistic planning abilities inherent in women leaders.

A private reception hosted by Katy Knox from President Bank Of America and special guest Diane Von Fursetenberg held at the Goals House. The soirée was bringing together leaders from different sectors in Advancing gender equality, the gathering drew leaders from diverse sectors who focus on advancing gender equality and women’s economic empowerment worldwide. The illustrious guest list featured luminaries such as Diane von Furstenberg, a distinguished Board Member of Vital Voices, Cherie Blair, Barrister and writer, Sherrie Rollins Westin, President Sesame Workshop, Adena Friedman, Nasdaq President and many more. The other side line events included WSJ women’s reception, Women leaders reception by Adecco, the Swedish lunch amongst others.

ALSO READ-Dubai’s First Ever Liver Transplant Saves 38-Year-Old Woman

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Health Lite Blogs

Busting Myths and Promoting Awareness on Glaucoma

Panic should not set in if symptoms appear. Surgical and laser procedures are available to slow down the disease when medications prove insufficient. Consulting an expert ophthalmologist can lead to suitable treatments and prevent irreversible blindness…writes Dr. Kamala Subramanian

Glaucoma comprises a set of eye disorder characterized by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), leading to damage of the optic nerves which are responsible for transmitting visual signals to the brain. This condition can result in vision loss, and it can affect individuals of any age, with many remaining unaware of its presence. Early detection is crucial to prevent irreversible blindness. Currently, Glaucoma stands as a significant global cause of vision impairment, impacting 80 million people and contributing to 12.3 percent of worldwide blindness. In India, the prevalence is noteworthy, affecting 12 million individuals, with an estimated 40-50 percent of cases going undetected.

The prevailing myths surrounding glaucoma have panicked several people. It is decisive to dispel misinformation about this silent eye condition, which poses a threat to vision without displaying early warning signs. Here, we debunk some common myths around glaucoma, offering clarity and promoting proactive eye care.

Myth 1: Glaucoma derives only from a strong family history

Fact: Contrary to common perception, glaucoma is not solely tied to genetic factors. While a family history of glaucoma can elevate an individual’s risk, it’s essential to acknowledge that other factors also play substantial roles in the onset of this eye condition. Extended use of steroids for asthma, medications for rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune diseases, skin conditions, and a history of eye injuries can also contribute to the development of glaucoma.

Myth 2: No Alternatives if medications fail

Fact: Panic should not set in if symptoms appear. Surgical and laser procedures are available to slow down the disease when medications prove insufficient. Consulting an expert ophthalmologist can lead to suitable treatments and prevent irreversible blindness.

Myth 3: Glaucoma occurs only if you have elevated intraocular pressure (IOP)

Fact: Glaucoma results from optic nerve damage, not just high IOP. The pressure elevation happens due to the buildup of aqueous humor, causing damage to the optic nerve.

Myth 4: People with good eye sight won’t develop glaucoma

Fact: Glaucoma can occur to anyone, even if you have good eyesight. It is not that if you have a perfect vision, you won’t develop Glaucoma because people won’t notice symptoms until the disease has reached moderate or advanced stages.

Myth 5: Glaucoma can be cured with dietary modification

Fact: Glaucoma cannot be cured with dietary modifications alone. While a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, is beneficial for overall well-being, it cannot replace medical treatment for glaucoma.

Myth 6: Glaucoma affects only the elderly

Fact: Glaucoma can affect individuals aged 20 to 50 and even infants due to irregular ocular development. It can affect people of all ages even in newborns. Definitely the open angle glaucoma occurs mostly in older people. Some babies develop congenital glaucoma while other children have other eye diseases that can lead to secondary glaucoma. There are different types of glaucoma that affect different age groups.

Myth 7: Unattended cataract can cause glaucoma &irreversible vision loss

Fact: Cataracts and glaucoma are distinct conditions. Cataracts result from the clouding of the eye’s lens, causing vision issues. Both share common risk factors, but one doesn’t transform into the other. Cataracts are treatable and occur as a resulting of getting old usually sometimes after the age of 40. Whereas Glaucoma can occur irrespective of age and the people with diabetes have higher risk of developing glaucoma.

Myth 8: Excessive Screen Time Raises Glaucoma Risk

Fact: There’s no scientific evidence linking excess screen time to glaucoma. However, myopia (nearsightedness) patients spending extended periods at screens may be at risk.

In summary, clarifying the difference between misconceptions and realities about glaucoma is crucial for maintaining optimal eye health. Increasing awareness about the potential risk factors and symptoms of glaucoma is vital for early detection and successful management. Regular eye examinations and the promotion of proactive measures are necessary to protect vision and prevent irreversible damage associated with glaucoma. If there is a significant family history of glaucoma, it is imperative for the next generation to undergo comprehensive glaucoma testing in addition to routine screenings.

ALSO READ-WHO weighs AI risks, benefits for healthcare

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Books Lite Blogs

Turkish Ambassador Firat Sunel’s Love for Cycling and Writing

Adding that he can cycle 40-50 km a day, he adds that it is paramount that countries develop not just political relations but also cultural ones…Sukant Deepak

When the Turkish Ambassador to India, Firat Sunel, is not working or writing, he is busy cycling.

The first thing he did when posted to New Delhi was to buy a bicycle and discover the national capital.

“Getting to know the city on two wheels can be enigmatic. Discovering labyrinths, the happenings there, gives a peculiar view to the mechanics of how a city functions and how its character shapes,” he tells.

Adding that he can cycle 40-50 km a day, he adds that it is paramount that countries develop not just political relations but also cultural ones.

“And I can say Turkey and India are very close culturally. People-to-people contact and acquainting one another with each other’s culture can be instrumental in strong friendships. Both our countries have stood with each other in times of crisis. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Turkey supplied the required medical equipment. India on its part demonstrated its commitment to our relations by sending rescue teams and equipment during the devastating earthquake in Turkey.”

This diplomat-author, who was recently part of the recently concluded Kerala Literature Festival (KLF) and will be in conversation with Meru Gokhale on his novel ‘The Lighthouse Family’ (Penguin) during the upcoming Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF) has written ‘Salkim Sogutlerin Golgesinde’ (‘In the Shade of the Weeping Willows’), which inspired a TV series called ‘Buyuk Surgun Kafkasya’,’The Great Exile Caucasia’, ‘Izmirli’, ‘Izmirli, My Last Love’, and ‘Sarpincik Feneri’ (‘The Lighthouse Family’). His novels have been translated into several languages, including Malayalam, Tamil and Kannada in India.

“While diplomats write a lot as it is part of their profession, they also get to meet and interact with a lot of people. Contact with diverse people provides me with much inspiration,” he says.

Talking about ‘The Lighthouse Family’, which has recently been published in Malayalam, and will be released in English at JLF, the author says Indian readers will easily relate to the book.

“It is about a family’s tragedy through World War 2, and how wars affect people and their families, even though they live in a faraway lighthouse. I do have a lot of feedback from Turkey and critics really liked it and it will be received well,” concludes Sunel, who likes writing historical fiction and makes it a point to devote at least three hours early morning to writing.

ALSO READ-Dive into India’s Rich History with These Must-Watch Shows and Films

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-Top News Arab News Asia News

Israeli forces storm West Bank hospital

Surveillance footage from Ibn Sina hospital reveals members of an Israeli undercover unit, disguised as medics and civilians, navigating the corridors with raised rifles….reports Asian Lite News

Israeli forces have fatally shot three members of Palestinian armed groups in a West Bank hospital, sparking outrage and accusations of a “new massacre inside hospitals” from the Palestinian Authority’s ministry of health.

Hamas, engaged in a conflict with Israel in Gaza, labelled it an execution of three fighters, while Palestinian Islamic Jihad stated that two slain individuals were its members and brothers. The Israeli military asserted that the individuals were hiding in the Jenin hospital, with one allegedly planning an imminent attack.

Surveillance footage from Ibn Sina hospital reveals members of an Israeli undercover unit, disguised as medics and civilians, navigating the corridors with raised rifles.

Disturbingly, the video captures one operative stripping clothing from a person kneeling with hands behind their head and covering the individual’s head with it. The footage also shows unit members carrying a folded wheelchair and a baby-carrier, seemingly as props.

Images from the room where the men were shot display blood-stained floors and walls, featuring a bloodied blue pillow with a bullet hole on a bed.

Talking to Reuters, Dr. Naji Nazzal, the hospital’s director, accused the Israeli forces of executing the three men while they slept, firing bullets directly into their heads.

Meanwhile, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the custodian of the Geneva Conventions governing international humanitarian law, expressed concern over the raid.

Emphasising that hospitals and medical patients should be respected and protected at all times under international humanitarian law, the ICRC stated it would address the issue as part of its confidential dialogue with the relevant authorities.

In a separate incident, the Israeli forces have stormed the Al-Amal Hospital in Khan Younis area in the southern Gaza Strip.

The Palestine Red Crescent Society said on Tuesday in a statement that Israeli forces demolished the outer wall of the hospital, and asked displaced people and medical personnel to evacuate immediately, Xinhua news agency reported.

In the past days, the vicinity of the hospital has witnessed intense Israeli shelling, resulting in dozens of deaths and injuries and displacing hundreds of Palestinians from the area.

Al-Amal Hospital hosts thousands of Palestinians who sought refuge there as a result of Israeli shelling in various areas of Khan Younis.

However, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) denied the report. “There’s no storming of the Al-Amal hospital, entry into it or any ordering of people to leave at gunpoint,” an IDF spokesman said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the International Committee of the Red Cross on Tuesday called for the protection of civilians amid the fighting in the Gaza Strip.

“The ongoing hostilities in densely populated urban areas, including areas surrounding hospitals, endanger the lives of the most vulnerable groups, such as medical teams, patients, the wounded, children, people with disabilities, and the elderly,” the committee said in a statement sent to Xinhua.

The Palestinian death toll from the ongoing Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip has risen to 26,751 since October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a cross-border surprise attack on Israel that killed about 1,200 people, said the Hamas-run Health Ministry on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, a ceasefire to the ongoing war for release of hostages is likely by the coming week.

According to Israel Defence Ministry officials, discussions are on at a higher level and a ceasefire leading to the release of a batch of women, elderly and sick Israeli hostages from the custody of Hamas will commence soon.

While Hamas has been insisting on a complete withdrawal of Israel Defence Forces (IDF) for the next round of ceasefire, Israel had backed out of it in total.

Several rounds of mediatory talks held at the behest of Qatar, Egypt and the US at Doha, Cairo and Paris seems to be bringing in results.

Sources in the Israel defence ministry told IANS that Israel side has agreed upon the release of a large number of Palestinians who have been arrested and jailed in Israel in exchange for the hostages in the custody of Hamas.

According to information available after the release of women, sick and elderly civilians in Hamas custody, a second batch of hostages would also be released in which women Israeli soldiers in Hamas custody would be freed.

CIA chief William Burns and Mossad Chief David Burnea were also present in the recent mediatory talks held at Paris and have ironed out certain issues pertaining to ceasefire during their talks with Qatar and Egyptian mediators.

Sources clarified that there could be a one month ceasefire in hostilities but Israel has not agreed for the safe passage of top Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar and Mohammed Deif from Gaza into either Qatar or Turkey.

Israel Defence Minister Yoav Gallant had clearly stated that the Israel army would smoke out Sinwar from his hideout and would kill him.

ALSO READ: Egypt Rejects Israeli Influence in Philadelphi Corridor