Central News Hub

Month: December 2024

  • Tower Hamlets rejects China’s ‘Super-Embassy’ 

    Tower Hamlets rejects China’s ‘Super-Embassy’ 

    Tower Hamlets Borough Council rejected the application to redevelop a large complex of historic buildings, located just 5 kilometres from Westminster and formerly owned by the Royal Mint before being acquired by the Chinese government six years ago…reports Asian Lite News

    The Tower Hamlets Borough Council has once again rejected China’s proposal for a new “super-embassy,” citing concerns about its potential impact on “resident safety and policing.” However, campaigners expressed worry that the British government may override this decision in the coming year. 

    Despite being rejected in 2022 following a strong campaign by rights groups, China has resubmitted its application to build a large new facility in London. The campaigners had warned that the embassy would enable espionage and “long-arm” law enforcement, as reported by Radio Free Asia. 

    Tower Hamlets Borough Council rejected the application to redevelop a large complex of historic buildings, located just 5 kilometres (3 miles) from Westminster and formerly owned by the Royal Mint before being acquired by the Chinese government six years ago, for the second time on Monday. 

    A council spokesperson stated, “The committee discussed a range of concerns raised by objectors, ward members, and committee members. It was decided to reject the application due to worries about the impact on resident and tourist safety, heritage, police resources, and highway safety, given the area’s already congested nature.” 

    At Monday’s meeting, London’s Metropolitan Police cautioned that establishing a Chinese Embassy at that location would significantly affect policing and public safety, according to the report. 

    In a letter dated November 14 and posted on the Tower Hamlets planning applications website, Jon Savell, Deputy Assistant Commissioner of Special Operations, stated, “Policing the proposed embassy would require officers to be reassigned from frontline duties to manage both spontaneous and planned protests at this site.” 

    He also warned that “Protesters spilling over onto the streets would obstruct the roads, making it difficult to ensure their safety without closing roads, which would lead to increased disruption for the community and businesses.” 

    Overseas rights groups, concerned about a rise in Chinese infiltration and espionage targeting Tibetans, Uyghurs, Hong Kongers, and pro-democracy activists in the UK, have urged the British government to reject the proposal. 

    A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy described the plan as “a high-quality development scheme” and expressed that the decision was “deeply disappointing.” 

    In a statement on the embassy’s official website, the spokesperson said, “Host countries have an international duty to support and facilitate the construction of diplomatic mission premises. We hope the UK will fulfill this responsibility.” 

    Jason Chao, director of Hong Kongers in Britain, also addressed the meeting, warning that China often uses advanced surveillance technologies, such as facial recognition, to monitor critics of the Chinese Communist Party, according to Radio Free Asia report. 

    He expressed concerns that, given China’s history of human rights abuses, invasive surveillance, and suppression of dissidents abroad, the proposed new Chinese Embassy could pose a risk to the privacy and safety of nearby residents and workers. 

    In a subsequent interview with RFA Cantonese, Chao revealed that local residents had been discouraged from attending an exhibition about the planned embassy due to strict security measures, including the recording of visitors’ IDs or passport numbers. “People were concerned about security and felt uncomfortable with the amount of information being collected before they were allowed to attend the exhibition,” he said. 

    The UK government is set to hold a Local Inquiry hearing on February 11, 2025, where councillors will present their objections to the proposal. However, Chao noted that their ability to influence the outcome may be limited. “It’s clear that future decisions will be influenced, at least in part, by politics,” he said, adding that local residents now fear the government may push the plan through despite their objections. (ANI) 

    ALSO READ: South Korean Parliament Impeaches President Yoon Suk Yeol

  • ROYAL ‘SPY’ SAGA  

    ROYAL ‘SPY’ SAGA  

    Prince Andrew has said he “ceased all contact” with a businessman accused of being a Chinese spy after receiving advice from the government…reports Asian Lite News  

    Prince Andrew has said he “ceased all contact” with a businessman accused of being a Chinese spy after receiving advice from the government. 

    In a statement, his office said Prince Andrew had met the man “through official channels” and there was “nothing of a sensitive nature ever discussed”. 

    The alleged spy, known only as H6, was described in court as having formed an “unusual degree of trust” with the duke and has since been banned from the UK following a judgement by the UK’s semi-secret national security court. 

    Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said the government would “always stand ready to take action” on “any kind of challenge or threat to UK national security”. 

    In 2023, H6 brought an appeal against his initial ban but the decision has been upheld by the court. Judges were told the businessman was attempting to leverage Prince Andrew’s influence. 

    The duke’s office said he was “unable to comment further on matters relating to national security”. His statement did not specify when he ceased contact with the man, who was described as a “close confidant” of Prince Andrew, nor the duration of their communications. 

    It has also been reported by the Times that H6 was invited to and attended events at Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace and Windsor Castle at the duke’s request. Buckingham Palace declined to comment, saying they do not act for Prince Andrew, who is not a working royal. 

    China’s embassy in the UK has denied the espionage claim saying “some individuals in the UK are always eager to fabricate baseless ‘spy’ stories targeting China”. “Their purpose is to smear China and disrupt normal exchanges between Chinese and British personnel,” a spokesperson for the embassy said. 

    The former Home Secretary Suella Braverman banned H6 from the UK in March 2023. He then brought his case to the Special Immigration Appeals Commission, a court set up to consider appeals against decisions to ban or remove someone from the country on national security or related grounds. 

    In the published ruling, the judges upheld Braverman’s decision. Speaking to broadcasters on Saturday, Cooper said: “Our security and intelligence agencies are continually vigilant for any threat to UK national security. 

    “Whether that be around foreign influence, whether it be around espionage, whether it be around any security threat. We won’t hesitate to take action in individual cases or more widely wherever any challenge arises.” 

    The court was told that H6 was invited to Prince Andrew’s birthday party in 2020 and was told he could act on his behalf when dealing with potential investors in China. 

    It is not clear how H6 became close to the prince, but in November 2021 police officers stopped and questioned him at the UK border under powers to investigate suspicions of “hostile activity” by a foreign state. During that stop H6 surrendered a number of electronic devices including a mobile phone. What officers found on them so concerned the security service MI5, that Braverman used her exceptional powers to ban H6 from the country, the BBC reported. 

    In a letter found on one of his devices, H6 was told by Dominic Hampshire, an adviser to Prince Andrew: “Outside of [the prince’s] closest internal confidants, you sit at the very top of a tree that many, many people would like to be on.” 

    Hampshire adds: “Under your guidance, we found a way to get the relevant people unnoticed in and out of the house in Windsor.” 

    No further details about who the “relevant people” were are given in the excerpt from the letter included in the ruling. 

    Hampshire also confirmed to H6 that he could act for Prince Andrew in talks “with potential partners and investors in China”. A document listing “main talking points” for a call with Prince Andrew was also found. 

    It states: “IMPORTANT: Manage expectations. Really important to not set ‘too high’ expectations – he is in a desperate situation and will grab onto anything.” 

    The court assessed that this meant H6 was in a position “to generate relationships between senior Chinese officials and prominent UK figures which could be leveraged for political interference purposes by the Chinese State”. 

    The judges said H6 had won an “unusual degree of trust from a senior member of the Royal Family who was prepared to enter into business activities with him”. 

    They added that the relationship had developed at a time when the prince was “under considerable pressure” which “could make him vulnerable to the misuse of that sort of influence”. 

    The prince faced increasing scrutiny from late 2019 over his friendship with the late US financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, which included his infamous Newsnight interview in November of that year. 

    He stepped back from royal duties in November 2019 and the prince has since been dogged by questions about his judgement and his finances. 

    Questions were raised about the prince’s finances after he reached a settlement – believed to run into the millions – in a civil sexual assault case brought against him by Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein’s accusers. The prince has always denied assaulting Giuffre. 

    ALSO READ: South Korean Parliament Impeaches President Yoon Suk Yeol

  • Syria Supply Route Cut, Hezbollah Confirms

    Syria Supply Route Cut, Hezbollah Confirms

    Hezbollah added that the supply route could be restored once a new regime is in place, or Hezbollah may seek alternative pathways….reports Asian Lite News

    Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has confirmed that the Lebanese armed group has temporarily lost its weapons supply route through Syria following the recent fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government.

    In his first televised address on Saturday since the collapse of Assad’s government, Qassem acknowledged the disruption, describing it as a “detail” in the broader scope of Hezbollah’s operations.

    He added that the supply route could be restored once a new regime is in place, or Hezbollah may seek alternative pathways.

    “Yes, Hezbollah has lost the military supply route through Syria at this stage, but this loss is a detail in the resistance’s work,” Qassem said.

    “A new regime could come and this route could return to normal, and we could look for other ways,” he added.

    Hezbollah started intervening in Syria in 2013 to help Assad quash the rebels seeking to topple him at that time. Last week, as rebels approached Damascus, the group sent supervising officers to oversee a withdrawal of its fighters there.

    More than 50 years of Assad family rule have now been replaced with a transitional caretaker government put in place by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a former al-Qaeda affiliate, that spearheaded the rebel offensive.

    The Hezbollah chief also said Syria’s new rulers should not recognize neighbouring Israel or establish ties with it.

    Syria provided a land route for Hezbollah’s patron, Iran, to send convoys of weapons to Lebanon. Such convoys were often targeted by Israeli airstrikes but the terror group was able to heavily arm itself regardless.

    A coalition of militant groups, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group, seized control of Damascus on December 8, leading to the fall of Assad’s government.

    Qassem said that Hezbollah could only assess the new regime once it stabilises and clarifies its position. “However, we hope the Lebanese and Syrian peoples and governments will continue cooperating,” he said.

    Despite the setback, Qassem reiterated that Hezbollah’s resistance will continue.

    Hezbollah head Naim Qassem acknowledged Saturday that the Lebanese terror group had lost its arms supply route through Syria following the toppling of Bashar al-Assad’s regime nearly a week ago by a sweeping rebel offensive.

    Qassem didn’t mention Assad by name in his televised address, and said the group “cannot judge these new forces until they stabilize” and “take clear positions,” but said he hoped that the Lebanese and Syrian people and governments could continue to cooperate.

    “Yes, Hezbollah has lost the military supply route through Syria at this stage, but this loss is a detail in the resistance’s work,” Qassem said.

    “A new regime could come and this route could return to normal, and we could look for other ways,” he added.

    Syria provided a land route for Hezbollah’s patron, Iran, to send convoys of weapons to Lebanon. Such convoys were often targeted by Israeli airstrikes but the terror group was able to heavily arm itself regardless.

    Hezbollah started intervening in Syria in 2013 to help Assad quash the rebels seeking to topple him at that time. Last week, as rebels approached Damascus, the group sent supervising officers to oversee a withdrawal of its fighters there.

    More than 50 years of Assad family rule have now been replaced with a transitional caretaker government put in place by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a former al-Qaeda affiliate that spearheaded the rebel offensive.

    The Hezbollah Chief also said Syria’s new rulers should not recognise neighbouring Israel or establish ties with it.

    “We hope that this new party in power will see Israel as an enemy and not normalise relations with it,” Qassem said.

    The Syrian rebel leader Ahmad al-Sharaa, who is better known by his name Abu Mohammed al-Julani, said on Saturday that Israel has “no more excuses” to carry out airstrikes in Syria and that recent IDF attacks on Syrian soil have crossed red lines and threatened an escalation in the region.

    However, he said his group did not seek further conflict in the region.

    ALSO READ: South Korean Parliament Impeaches President Yoon Suk Yeol

  • Relationship Coach Sonia Gupta: Redefining Connections, Breaking Barriers, and Empowering Relationships

    Relationship Coach Sonia Gupta: Redefining Connections, Breaking Barriers, and Empowering Relationships

    Sonia Gupta’s journey is a testament to resilience and transformation. From overcoming personal pain, she has found her calling a coach and mentor,  a beacon of hope for those navigating the challenges of relationships and divorce. As a Relationship and Divorce Mentor and Coach, Sonia helps individuals navigate the complexities of heartbreak, self-discovery, and healing. Her story is one of unwavering courage, personal growth, and a deep commitment to empowering others to rewrite their own narratives and embrace new beginnings.

    A Journey of Transformation

    Sonia’s life took a profound turn when she faced the end of her marriage, a moment that could have shattered her spirit. The aftermath was a whirlwind of intense emotions, mental anguish, and countless tears. “I cried until it felt like there were no tears left,” she reflects. The burden of societal judgment, combined with the internal struggle of feeling like a failure, threatened to overwhelm her.

    What made the journey even more difficult was the absence of familial support—a challenge Sonia endured for eight long years. “My family was bound by cultural expectations,” she shares. “Divorce was something they couldn’t openly accept, even though they loved me.” Left feeling isolated and alone, Sonia had to navigate this painful chapter on her own, often feeling as though the world was closing in around her.

    But Sonia refused to let her circumstances define her future. In a bold act of defiance against societal expectations, she threw a divorce party—a celebration of her newfound freedom and a testament to her resilience. This unconventional gesture was far more than just a party; it marked a pivotal moment in Sonia’s life. That one event became the starting point of her journey to reclaim her identity, rediscover her self-worth, and redefine her perspective on relationships.

    “It wasn’t just about closing the door on a marriage; it was about embracing who I truly am and the life I want to create,” Sonia reflects. Initially met with skepticism, the party soon evolved into a powerful symbol of empowerment. It inspired others to view the end of a relationship not as a defeat, but as an opportunity for personal growth and transformation.

    Breaking Free and Rebuilding

    Sonia’s journey to true freedom required another courageous step—walking away from her family’s business. Though it had provided stability, it also tethered her to a life that no longer aligned with her values. “Leaving was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made,” she admits. “I knew it meant starting over without a safety net, but it was the only way I could create the life I truly desired.”

    Undeterred by the challenges ahead, Sonia embraced the unknown with determination. She built her career from the ground up, dedicating herself to education, personal growth, and her passion for helping others. Her story stands as a powerful testament to the strength of perseverance and self-belief, showing that even in the face of adversity and without external support, transformation is always possible.

    Sonia openly shares the emotional toll her divorce took on her—feelings of inadequacy, deep loneliness, and the overwhelming sense of loss that often lingered. These struggles ignited a personal battle with mental health, a journey that taught her the importance of seeking support and tapping into her inner strength.

    Through therapy, self-reflection, and surrounding herself with a supportive network, Sonia began to rebuild her life. “It’s not just about overcoming the pain; it’s about finding the tools to move forward with hope and a renewed sense of purpose,” she reflects. Today, Sonia’s triumph over these challenges shapes her approach to coaching, where she empowers others to navigate their own emotional and mental health struggles during life transitions. Her story serves as a reminder that healing is not a destination, but an ongoing journey fueled by resilience and self-compassion.

    Life as a a Relationship Coach

    Today, Sonia blends her personal experiences with professional expertise to form deep, transformative connections with her clients. Specializing in the emotional, psychological, and practical challenges of divorce and relationships, Sonia’s coaching is built around three core areas:

    1. Healing After Divorce: Sonia provides powerful tools to help individuals process the pain of divorce, rebuild their confidence, and envision a positive future.
    2. Breaking Barriers: She works with clients to overcome societal judgment and self-doubt, empowering them to embrace their unique journeys without fear or shame.
    3. Redefining Relationships: Sonia believes that healthy relationships begin with self-love. She guides her clients toward cultivating fulfilling, authentic connections, starting with a deeper understanding of themselves.

    While Sonia is best known for helping individuals rebuild after divorce, her expertise extends to saving struggling marriages. By helping partners communicate more effectively, understand each other’s needs, and recognize the importance of differing love languages, she helps many couples rediscover their connection.

    “Sometimes, stepping back and seeing your partner through a new lens can make all the difference,” she says. Sonia’s coaching has helped heal relationships that once seemed irreparable, demonstrating that empathy and open communication are powerful tools for reconciliation.

    Her Upcoming Book:

    Sonia is also in the process of writing a book that expands on the themes she explores in her talks and coaching sessions. Part memoir, part practical guide, the book weaves together her personal journey with the lessons she’s learned along the way. It provides actionable advice for anyone struggling with self-worth, relationships, or navigating life’s transitions.

    “The book is my way of telling readers, ‘You’re not alone, and you can emerge stronger,’” Sonia explains. A mix of vulnerability and empowerment, it offers practical steps to help readers reclaim their lives, find healing, and rediscover joy amidst adversity.

    Breaking Barriers and Empowering Audiences: Public Speaker

    As an empowering and dynamic speaker, Sonia captivates her audiences with a raw authenticity that resonates deeply. Her talks cover a wide range of topics, including breaking free from societal expectations, finding strength in adversity, embracing self-worth, and prioritizing mental health. Drawing from her own personal experiences, Sonia dismantles the stigmas surrounding divorce, relationships, and emotional struggles, fostering open, honest conversations.

    “Sharing my story isn’t about reliving the pain—it’s about showing others that transformation is not only possible, but within reach,” Sonia explains. Her mission is to create a space where people feel truly seen, heard, and supported.

    Sonia’s talks go beyond inspiration; they offer practical tools that help individuals navigate life’s challenges with clarity and confidence. Whether at corporate conferences or intimate workshops, her ability to connect with audiences leaves a profound, lasting impact, empowering others to embrace change and step into their own potential.

    A Life of Purpose

    From her bold divorce party to her thriving coaching practice and upcoming book, Sonia Gupta embodies the power of resilience. She has transformed her personal struggles into powerful stepping stones, using her experiences to inspire and uplift others. For anyone feeling lost after the end of a relationship, Sonia’s journey is a powerful reminder that endings can also be new beginnings—and that true strength lies in rediscovering yourself.

    Through her guidance, people are not only healing but also rebuilding connections that once seemed beyond repair, proving that love, in all its forms, is worth fighting for. Sonia’s work is helping to reshape the narrative around relationships, divorce, and self-worth, showing that even in life’s darkest moments, a path to light and renewal exists.

    Sonia’s mission is clear: to empower others to find their voice, reconnect with their worth, and create a life filled with purpose and joy.

    ALSO READ: V&A Showcases Mughal Court’s Art, Architecture, and Grandeur

  • BTA, NHS & BHC India officials visit DY Patil Medical campus in Pune to sign MoU

    BTA, NHS & BHC India officials visit DY Patil Medical campus in Pune to sign MoU

    Bapio Training Academy UK and the Dy Patil Medical College and Hospital. Pune tie-up to enhance medical education. Rahul Laud reports

    A high-powered visiting delegation consisted of Prof Parag Singhal. CEO, BAPIO Training Academy, UK. (BAPIO – British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin), Prof Maria Kane. Chief Executive, North Bristol NHS Trust and Visiting Professor for the College of Health, Science and Society at UWE Bristol, UK, Mr Jamie Scattergood, Deputy Head of Mission, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, UK, Ms Edna Dsouza. Cluster manager – Healthcare, Life Sciences and Chemicals at British High Commission in India, Ms Risha Rajput. Trade Advisor at British Deputy High Commission, Mumbai visited the Dy Patil Medical College. Pune campus and a formal MOU was signed between Dr DY Patil Medical College and Hospital, Pune, and the BTA.  Detailed insights about the medical sector in India and the UK, enthusiasm, and collaboration made the occasion memorable and impactful to all the attendees.

    The formal program engaged leaders and dignitaries, and their perspectives on strengthening Indo-UK healthcare alliances. The signing of the MOU marked a significant milestone, and all stakeholders are excited about the promising avenues of collaboration ahead.

    Dr Prof. Parag Singhal (Centre) felicitated by the DY Patil Medical College staff.

    The visiting delegates visited the Dental College, Stem Cell Lab, and Ayurveda College, along with the wrap-up meetings, provided a platform to discuss and refine the shared vision for academic and clinical excellence.

    This partnership is designed to create a robust platform for academic excellence, innovation in research, and global healthcare advancements. The collaboration brings together the expertise of Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, one of India’s leading medical institutions and BAPIO Training Academy.

    On the occasion of signing the MoU, Cr Prof Parag Singhal, CEO at BTA, shared, “The partnership will focus on key specializations such as emergency medicine, critical care, dermatology, dentistry, chronic disease management, and healthcare leadership. Through joint academic programs, workshops, seminars, and faculty and student exchanges, the collaboration aims to enrich learning experiences for medical students and healthcare professionals.

    In addition to academic initiatives, the partnership will drive collaborative research on innovative treatments and chronic diseases, addressing critical public health challenges. These efforts are expected to yield high-impact publications and significant advancements in medical science. Prof Singhal added.

    Patient safety will be a cornerstone of this partnership. Both institutions will work together to develop standardized safety protocols and implement regular quality improvement training. These measures will ensure elevated patient safety standards, leading to better outcomes and improved healthcare delivery.

     Furthermore, this collaboration will foster global knowledge exchange, creating a model for international cooperation in healthcare and medical education and strengthening ties between India and the UK, Prof Singhal confirmed.

    Prof Maria Kane, Chief Executive, North Bristol NHS Trust and Visiting Professor for the College of Health, Science and Society at UWE Bristol, UK was hopeful that the partnership would help them learn from one another, provide training and education at undergraduate and postgraduate level, exchange skills and combine research and technological innovation.

    According to Edna Dsouza, Cluster manager – Healthcare, Life Sciences and Chemicals at the British High Commission in India, said, “Together, they’re laying the foundation for Innovative Research, Upskilling Workforce, Patient Safety & Care. This partnership is more than an agreement; it’s a shared vision of transforming healthcare and creating opportunities for global collaboration.”Dr.

    Bhagyashree Patil, Pro-Chancellor, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune, said, “Together with BAPIO Training Academy, we aim to create a future where cross-border knowledge sharing leads to impactful innovations that benefit humanity.”

    Dr. Yashraj Patil, Trustee and Treasurer, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune remarked, “By bringing together expertise from India and the UK, we are not only advancing academic and clinical excellence but also positioning ourselves as a global leader in healthcare innovation and patient safety.”

    Dr. Rekha Arcot, Dean, Dr. DY Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, shared her thoughts, stating, “The partnership with BAPIO Training Academy offers immense potential to enhance learning opportunities for our students and faculty. By focusing on specialized training and collaborative research, we are setting new benchmarks in medical education and patient care.”

    The partnership will be implemented in a phased manner over 24 months, focusing on planning, program development, execution, and monitoring. This milestone initiative is expected to make a significant contribution to global healthcare and medical education, fostering long-term collaboration between India and the UK.

    Dr. Tamorish Kole, Director of Emergency Medicine, Dr D Y Patil Medical College, Pune, said, “We look forward to building upon the recent visit and  discussions and turning our shared aspirations into impactful initiatives.”

    ALSO READ: BTA Expands Partnerships In India

  • Temple Connect plans ITC EXPO – 2025; Saraswat Chamber signs MoU

    Temple Connect plans ITC EXPO – 2025; Saraswat Chamber signs MoU

    The INTERNATIONAL TEMPLES CONVENTION & EXPO – 202This will be held at Tirupati between 17-19 February 2025. Rahul Laud reports

    In a historic move, Temple Connect’s Giresh Vasudeo Kulkarni has signed an exclusive MoU with the Global Chamber of Saraswat Entrepreneurs to strengthen its global presence at the INTERNATIONAL.

    TEMPLES CONVENTION & EXPO – 2025 where 1500+ Temples Worldwide will join at ITCX. Leaders will shape the Future of Temple Management. This will be held at Tirupati between 17-19 February 2025. The Expo aims to strengthen and empower temples by fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing.

    Giresh Vasudev Kulkarni

    Giresh Vasudev Kulkarni is a global visionary reshaping temple management, bringing a unique blend of passion and innovation to the spiritual and cultural sectors. Driven by a mission to merge tradition with innovation, Giresh has successfully launched initiatives that extend beyond mere management to revolutionize how temples operate and engage communities. The International Temples Convention & Expo (ITCX) is the first global platform for advancing temple management. Leaders, trustees, and CEOs converge to discuss Temple Economics, sustainability, and strategic operations. Powered by Temple Connect – Divinity Worldwide, ITCX sets the stage for innovation in temple leadership. ITCX aims to equip temples with the knowledge and tools needed to streamline operations and elevate the experience for all visitors. Mohan Bhagwat RSS head honcho inaugurated the International Temples Convention and Expo (ITCX) 2023 in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, Narendra Modi and Amit Shah both sent congratulatory messages to ITCX also affirming their support and encouragement. Maharashtra ace politician BJP leader chief whip member of MLC Parad Lad is one of the strongest supporters of Kulkarni’s mission.

    Giresh Kulkarni with RSS head honcho Dr Mohan Bhagwat at ITCX 2023

    Earlier this year, Kulkarni launched the first batch in Mumbai of Post Graduate Diploma in Temple Management studies at the Welingkar Institute of Management Studies. . This groundbreaking initiative took place in the esteemed presence of some of the most respected figures in education and temple administration. Present at the launch were Anil Sahastrabuddhe ji, Chairman of the National Educational Technology Forum (NETF), Chairman of EC National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), and Chairman of NBA; Adv SK Jain, Chairman of S.P. Mandali; Dr. Suresh Haware, Ex-Chairman of Shirdi Sansthan; Prof. Uday Salunkhe ji; and Prof. Pednekar, Ex-VC of Mumbai University.

    In November this year the Saraswat Chamber’s Directors Aniruddh Walawalkar, Siddharth Sinkar, and Pravin Kakode were co-opted as part of the national convening committee of the Expo. Chamber believes that industry experts who will speak on this aspect of temple management, network with global temple leaders, and discover cultural traditions and key topics including technology, sustainability, financial management, operations, hygiene, and pilgrim services—everything to help temples thrive will benefit Chamber memb

  • Residents of Darsait celebrates 54th Oman’s National Day with friendship and brotherhood

    Residents of Darsait celebrates 54th Oman’s National Day with friendship and brotherhood

    Oman’s 54th National Day was celebrated in a unique way, by the Dawoodi Bohra community members, with a carnival for the community members and the Omani nationals from the neighborhood of Darsait, in Muscat, on a Friday evening.

    Around 1000 members including children with their mothers, grand parents and elders, enjoyed the pleasant evening at the open Darsait football ground.

     This was a time for many to display their untapped skills of culinary – mouth watering snacks ranging from – Shawarma, the crispy and juicy sweet Jalebis, traditional Seer Korma, Chana chats, juice and the famous Karak Chai.

    Variety of food stalls, Displayed on the four corner of the open ground. Children’s thronged to these goodies counter with the free coupons provided by the community leaders, was a treat to watch, the youngsters collecting their food standing in qué like disciplined school kids.

    The carnival offered a delightful array of Dawoodi Bohra delicacies, served to all guests along with anassortment of sweet and savory treats. The games on offer created an atmosphere of excitement andthe winners took home several gifts as a reward.

    One of the carnival’s highlights was the highly anticipated raffle draw which included 20 plus gifts and hcreated a buzz of excitement among the crowd. The carnival also featured henna and face painting stalls, which attracted many visitors, as well as stallswhere local Omani women showcased their handicraft and their culinary skills and more. Each and every individual left the carnival in high spirits urging the Dawoodi Bohra community to regularly organize such events in the future.

    Prominent Omani nationals including Wali of Darsait area Shaikh Hashil Bin Khalfan Al Hasani, who enjoyed the savoury, appreciated the efforts taken by the community members and commended their efforts to bring the neighbourhood residents under one platform.

    He said, Oman is a peaceful country and Omanis are known for their hospitality and welcoming nature to each and everyone to this glorious nation.

    Shaikh Khuzaima Yamani, respectedly known as Janab, a prominent personality from the community, says, “we believe in peace and prosperity, we adopt ourselves and gel with the nation and it’s people like our own family.”

     Majlis Al Shura council member Hussain Al Lawati, also took time on a weekend and interacted with the community members and encourated with his kind words to the volunteers and wished the organisers, “The Very Best”.

  • South Korean Parliament Impeaches President Yoon Suk Yeol

    South Korean Parliament Impeaches President Yoon Suk Yeol

    An impeachment motion against Yoon passed 204-85, with three abstentions and eight invalid ballots, with all 300 lawmakers casting their ballots reports Asian Lite News

    The South Korea’s National Assembly voted on Saturday to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol over his botched imposition of martial law.

    Yoon will be suspended from his duties as soon as the impeachment resolution is delivered to his office, while Prime Minister Han Duck-soo will serve as acting president, reports Yonhap news agency.

    An impeachment motion against Yoon passed 204-85, with three abstentions and eight invalid ballots, with all 300 lawmakers casting their ballots.

    Yoon’s People Power Party (PPP) decided shortly before the proceeding to take part in the vote but opposed impeachment.

    The result showed 12 PPP lawmakers broke from their party line to vote in favour of impeachment.

    A two-thirds majority was required to approve the motion, with the opposition bloc accounting for 192 of the 300 members of Parliament.

    The first attempt to impeach Yoon last Saturday failed after nearly all PPP lawmakers boycotted the vote.

    A second impeachment motion against Yoon was introduced on Thursday by the main opposition Democratic Party and five other minor opposition parties, accusing him of violating the Constitution and other laws by declaring martial law on December 3. The decree was lifted six hours later after the Assembly voted to repeal it.

    The second motion was revised from the first motion to remove some charges against Yoon but add others, including allegations that Yoon ordered troops and the police to arrest lawmakers while martial law was in force.

    The motion will now be sent to the Constitutional Court, which will decide whether to reinstate Yoon or remove him from office.

    If the impeachment is upheld, Yoon will become the second President to be ousted after former President Park Geun-hye in 2017.

    Main Oppn hails impeachment

    South Korea’s main Opposition Democratic Party (DP) on Saturday welcomed the National Assembly’s decision to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol over his botched imposition of martial law, calling it a victory for the people.

    DP floor leader Park Chan-dae made the remark as he met reporters after the vote, voicing appreciation for all those who supported Yoon’s impeachment.

    “We made a historic victory for democracy because of all who gathered in front of the National Assembly and passionately cried out for the protection of the Constitution and democracy,” he said.

    He stressed that Yoon’s impeachment is ‘only the first step’ toward solving the aftermath of Yoon’s December 3 martial law declaration, and vowed to push for a thorough investigation into Yoon and other ‘accomplices of the insurrection.’

    He also said the DP will make every effort to swiftly form a special counsel to investigate Yoon.

    ALSO READ: Martial Law: South Korea’s Chief Of Capital Defence Command Arrested

  • London International Arts Festival presents captivating performances

    London International Arts Festival presents captivating performances

    The 13th edition of London International Arts Festival by Dhruva Arts was celebrated at four venues across London recently, drawing diverse audiences. The festival included array of Carnatic, Hindustani, Ghazal Music and Dance presentations.

    The celebrations kicked off at the Nehru Centre with the Festival’s Operations Director Srikanth Sharma outlining its objective and journey of many Avatars spanning over a decade. Dr Jyotsna Srikanth MBE spoke about the journey of an Indian musician, the role of the Western instruments and their influence on the Carnatic melody nuances and presented a fast paced interactive violin concert.

    Audience at LIAF

    A three- hour thematic Carnatic vocal concert featuring legendary Dr M Balamurali Krishna’s compositions by Srikanth Sharma was held on the second day at the unorthodox North London venue Karamel.

    Vocal Performance at LIAF

    Ghazal-Geet took centre stage at Kings Place with Dev Dutt Joshi taking the audience to a different realm on the third day. Seasoned musicians featuring violin, keyboards, bass guitar, flute, mandolin and guitar have embellished the rendition.

    Young performers at LIAF

    The fourth and the final program of the eclectic festival was celebrated at East London Avanti Court Primary School auditorium. The 6 hour non-stop music included Veena-Duo, Pranava-String trio, Adithya Narayan’s vocal concert, and Percussion Ensemble. Swamini Chidekarasananda Saraswati spoke on the meta-physical aspects of music. More than 30 Bharatanatyam dancers from Guru Aparna Sambashivam’s school Shiv Nartanalyam have presented a visual treat on the occasion.

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  • OpenAI Whistleblower Found Dead At US Apartment

    OpenAI Whistleblower Found Dead At US Apartment

    The medical examiner’s office determined the manner of death to be suicide and police officials this week said there is “currently, no evidence of foul play.”

    Suchir Balaji, an OpenAI whistleblower, has been found dead inside his apartment here, according to multiple reports.

    In October, the 26-year-old AI researcher raised serious concerns about Sam Altman-run chatGPT maker OpenAI “breaking copyright law”.

    According to the San Jose Mercury News, Balaji was found dead inside his Buchanan Street apartment, as confirmed by San Francisco Police and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

    The medical examiner’s office determined the manner of death to be suicide and police officials this week said there is “currently, no evidence of foul play.”

    “The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME) has identified the decedent as Suchir Balaji, 26, of San Francisco. The manner of death has been determined to be suicide,” a spokesperson was quoted as saying in reports.

    “The OCME has notified the next-of-kin and has no further comment or reports for publication at this time,” the spokesperson added.

    Balaji worked for nearly four years at OpenAI before quitting the company, after he realised the technology would do more harm than good to society, he told The New York Times.

    “We are devastated to learn of this incredibly sad news today and our hearts go out to Suchir’s loved ones during this difficult time,” said an OpenAI spokesperson.

    In a post on X in October, Balaji said: “I was at OpenAI for nearly 4 years and worked on ChatGPT for the last 1.5 of them. I initially didn’t know much about copyright, fair use, etc. but became curious after seeing all the lawsuits against GenAI companies.”

    “When I tried to understand the issue better, I eventually came to the conclusion that fair use seems like a pretty implausible defence for a lot of generative AI products, for the basic reason that they can create substitutes that compete with the data they’re trained on,” he further posted.

    Balaji grew up in Cupertino, California before attending the University of California, Berkeley to study computer science.

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