Central News Hub

Month: December 2024

  • Essential Winter Foods to Add to Your Diet

    Essential Winter Foods to Add to Your Diet

    Garlic has been celebrated for centuries as a natural remedy to strengthen the immune system. It contains compounds like allicin that have been shown to enhance the body’s ability to fight off infections…reports Asian Lite News

    As the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, keeping your immune system strong is crucial to avoid common winter illnesses like colds, flu, and infections. Fortunately, winter offers an abundance of seasonal foods packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to help bolster your immune defences. Here are five winter foods you can incorporate into your diet to stay healthy and energized throughout the colder months.

    Citrus fruits (Oranges, lemons, grapefruits)

    Citrus fruits are a wintertime staple that is packed with vitamin C—an essential nutrient known for its immune-boosting properties. Vitamin C helps stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting off infections. Whether you enjoy a glass of fresh orange juice, a tangy lemon tea, or a grapefruit snack, these fruits are an easy and delicious way to keep your immune system strong.

    Ginger

    Ginger is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich root that can help reduce inflammation in the body and fight infections. Known for its warming properties, ginger also aids in digestion and can help soothe sore throats and nausea, common symptoms during cold and flu season. Whether you brew it into a comforting tea or add it to soups and stews, ginger provides an immune-boosting punch during winter months.

    Sweet Potatoes

    Sweet potatoes are not only a comforting winter food but also a powerhouse of nutrients that support immune function. Packed with beta-carotene (which the body converts to vitamin A), sweet potatoes help maintain the health of your skin and mucous membranes, which are your body’s first line of defence against germs. They’re also rich in fibre and antioxidants, making them a great choice for overall wellness during the winter months.

    Garlic

    Garlic has been celebrated for centuries as a natural remedy to strengthen the immune system. It contains compounds like allicin that have been shown to enhance the body’s ability to fight off infections. Garlic also has antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent the growth of bacteria and viruses. You can enjoy it raw, roasted, or mixed into your favourite winter dishes like soups, stews, and casseroles.

    ALSO READ-Unhealthy food habits cost UK £268bn a year  

  • ‘Freedom at Midnight’ Continues: Refugee Crisis Storyline Confirmed for Season 2

    ‘Freedom at Midnight’ Continues: Refugee Crisis Storyline Confirmed for Season 2

    Advani was in Goa to participate in the recently concluded market Film Bazaar, which was part of the ongoing International Film Festival of India (IFFI)…reports Asian Lite News

    Filmmaker Nikkhil Advani announced the second season of ‘Freedom at Midnight’, which is adaptation of Larry Collins and Dominique Lapierre’s 1975 non-fiction book about India’s independence, with plans for a second season already in motion.

    The seven-episode first season ends on a cliffhanger, with showrunner Advani confirming that Season 2 will tackle the refugee crisis that followed India’s partition.

    Speaking to variety.com, Advani said: “Twenty to thirty million people are going to be uprooted from their homes. What Gandhi had predicted was going to happen. Everybody felt that partition was going to be the answer to quell the violence and to stop it. Mahatma Gandhi said it is only going to become worse.”

    Advani was in Goa to participate in the recently concluded market Film Bazaar, which was part of the ongoing International Film Festival of India (IFFI).

    Advani was in a panel discussion organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry hosted on a yacht from the Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association.

    The second season of the show is scheduled to launch in 2025, as per Danish Khan, executive VP and business head of SonyLIV and StudioNext.

    “We will tell stories of India in a very authentic, cerebral way. There is a set of people who are our subscribers who appreciate highly researched, authenticated work,” he added.

    Talking about the main challenges, Advani said: “The events between August 16, 1946, when (Muhammad Ali) Jinnah chose to give the Direct Action Day speech, and January 30, 1940 – these events are indisputable.”

    “It’s almost like a roller coaster.”

    “The biggest challenge was how do you adapt a 1000-page book (that too a non-fiction book at that) without losing the essence of it. And manage to make it enjoyable for a large swathe of audience who may or may not be lovers of history,” SonyLIV head of content Saugata Mukherjee added.

    ALSO READ-‘The Bloomsbury Handbook of Indian Cuisine’ : Northeast to Global Tables

  • Sonali Kulkarni’s Journey in Cinema

    Sonali Kulkarni’s Journey in Cinema

    The actress is quite active on OTT as well and was recently seen in the streaming series ‘Manvat Murders’. The actress feels that the medium of OTT gives actors reassurance and security as it makes sure the work of actors reaches a wider audience…reports Asian Lite News

    Actress Sonali Kulkarni, who predominantly works in Marathi cinema, and is known for her work in ‘Dil Chahta Hai’, ‘Taxi No. 9 2 11’, ‘Chandu Champion’ and others’ has completed 100 projects in her illustrious career of more than two decades. The actress walked down the memory lane and shared how she became a part of ‘Dil Chahta Hai’.

    ‘Dil Chahta Hai’, which marked the directorial debut of Bollywood multi-hyphenate Farhan Akhtar, has over the years gained a cult following owing to its timeless storytelling, music and pretty much the excellence in every department.

    The actress shared that her coming on-board for the film was driven purely by chance.

    The actress told IANS, “I never imagined Dil Chahta Hai would become such a cult classic, especially since I was just a budding actor at the time. I was full of enthusiasm, already exploring international projects, but I was in a phase where the joy of working mattered most. Zoya Akhtar, who was the casting director, saw my photos purely by chance. During that era, actors would do photo sessions and distribute their portfolios. As fate would have it, someone carrying my photos dropped them, and Zoya happened to spot them. She called me in for a look test, and I was immediately drawn to her warm personality and the amazing vibe at the audition”.

    She continued, “The audition took place at Excel Entertainment’s office, which was new at the time. Ritesh Sidhwani was producing for the first time, and Farhan Akhtar was making his directorial debut. I loved the camaraderie between Farhan, Zoya, and Ritesh, and their bond translated beautifully into their work. Being part of ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ was a joy. The discipline and meticulous planning on set were remarkable. And of course, my song ‘Wo Ladki Hai Kahan’ became a turning point in my career. Even after working on over 100 films, it remains a milestone I’ll always cherish”.

    When asked after working on 100 titles what keeps her going, the actress said, “It fuels my ambition and keeps me striving for more. There are several roles I’ve always dreamed of playing. One of them is a character inspired from Tamasha, the world of clowny dancers. Another is a role deeply rooted in sports, showcasing the spirit and discipline of an athlete. The list of aspirations is long, but these two are at the top, and I truly hope they become part of my journey and career (sic)”.

    The actress is quite active on OTT as well and was recently seen in the streaming series ‘Manvat Murders’. The actress feels that the medium of OTT gives actors reassurance and security as it makes sure the work of actors reaches a wider audience.

    Talking about the same, she said, “OTT ensures your work reaches a global audience almost instantly. You don’t have to wait endlessly, which is a relief because there are 8-9 films in my career that never got released. That void …the feeling of your work being unseen is disheartening. With OTT, that fear is gone. Your work will be released, it will find an audience, and you’ll earn their appreciation”.

    She further mentioned, “For an actor, that’s incredibly reassuring. However, with the rise of OTT, there’s also an influx of new talent. The competition has become fierce, almost cutthroat. I’ve noticed how far people go just to work, they’re ready to take drastic pay cuts, work for free, or even co-produce projects just to secure opportunities”.

    She also spoke about her upcoming projects, as she said, “Currently, I’m working on a Marathi film directed by Prasad Oak, and another Marathi project is set to begin next week. In Hindi, I’m involved in a film titled ‘Palatwar’. Then there’s ‘Knock Knock Kaun Hai’, directed by Prabal and produced by Daya Shetty, which is ready for release. I’m also part of a web series called ‘Oops Ab Kya Yaar’, where I play a fabulous character that I’m really excited about”

    “My schedule is a mix of web shows, regional films, ongoing discussions, and a few Hindi films in the pipeline. Alongside my work, I’m surrounded by a loving family, loads of happiness, decent earnings, incredible friends and colleagues, and an amazing team that keeps me going strong. I couldn’t be more grateful”, she added.

    ALSO READ-SIFFCY sets the stage for 11 edition film fest in Delhi; Call for Good Cinema continues

  • High-Fibre Diet May Delay Rare Blood Cancer

    High-Fibre Diet May Delay Rare Blood Cancer

    The study enrolled 20 participants with a precancerous blood disorder and an elevated body mass index (BMI) at risk for developing multiple myeloma…reports Asian Lite News

    A team of researchers in the US has shown that a high fibre, plant-based dietary intervention may delay progression to multiple myeloma, a type of rare and incurable blood cancer affecting the bone marrow.

    The team at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) has reported results from the first-ever clinical trial in this regard.

    “This study showcases the power of nutrition — specifically a high fibre plant-based diet — and unlocks a better understanding of how it can lead to improvements in the microbiome and metabolism to build a stronger immune system,” said MSK myeloma specialist Dr Urvi Shah, who presented these findings at the 2024 American Society of Hematology (ASH) annual meeting in San Diego, California.

    These findings further support how we as physicians can empower patients, especially those with precancerous conditions, with knowledge on reducing their cancer risk through dietary changes, she added

    The study enrolled 20 participants with a precancerous blood disorder and an elevated body mass index (BMI) at risk for developing multiple myeloma.

    They received 12 weeks of high fibre, plant-based meals and 24 weeks of coaching. Two participants with progressing disease prior to study showed a significant improvement of their disease progression trajectory.

    Additionally, at one year after enrollment, none of the participants had progressed to multiple myeloma.

    During the study, participants were encouraged to eat as much as they wanted if it was whole plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and legumes.

    With these dietary changes, there were significant improvements in quality of life, insulin resistance, gut microbiome health and inflammation.

    On average, participants lost eight percent of their body weight after 12 weeks.

    These findings were confirmed in a smoldering myeloma mouse model where 44 per cent of mice fed the high fibre diet did not progress to myeloma compared to the standard diet where all mice progressed to myeloma.

    ALSO READ-‘Smoking could cause 300,000 cancer cases by 2029’ 

  • Protests across Bengal over Bangladesh situation   

    Protests across Bengal over Bangladesh situation   

    At the demonstration outside the Salt Lake International Bus Terminus near Kolkata, protesters torched Dhakai Jamdani sarees of Bangladesh 

    Protests were held in various parts of West Bengal on Sunday over the alleged atrocities on minority Hindus in Bangladesh. 

    Hundreds of people joined the protest rallies organised by Hindutva groups in Kolkata, Kanthi, Kakdwip, Sandeshkhali and Purulia, calling for the immediate release of Hindu leader Chinmoy Krishna Das. 

    At the demonstration outside the Salt Lake International Bus Terminus near Kolkata, protesters torched Dhakai Jamdani sarees from Bangladesh. 

    They called for a boycott of Bangladeshi goods, warning that Indians wouldn’t remain silent if the disrespect toward the tricolour and attacks on Hindus continued. 

    “We condemn the continuous targeting of Hindus in Bangladesh and the hate-driven narratives against India. We will not sit idle and with burning the Jamdani sarees, we urge people to boycott Bangladeshi products,” said a protestor. 

    “What kind of Bangladesh is this? The people who fought for liberation in 1971 now seem to be erasing their own history,” said another protestor. 

    Leading the protest rally in Kanthi, the state’s Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari said ‘sanatanis’ were united against rising fundamentalist forces in Bangladesh. 

    “The martyrdom of 30,000 Indian soldiers in the 1971 Bangladesh liberation war has been forgotten by the Islamists in the neighbouring country. Today’s rally is a wake-up call to the elements across the border to stop rabble-rousing rhetoric,” he said. 

    When asked about anti-India statements by Bangladeshi groups, Adhikari said that following international protocol and UN guidelines, the Narendra Modi government will take appropriate steps at the right moment. 

    Bangladesh optimistic about resolving standoff 

    Bangladesh and India will be able to overcome the stalemate in the relationship witnessed in recent months, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain said here on Sunday. 

    His comments came ahead of Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s visit to Bangladesh on Monday during which he is likely to raise with Dhaka India’s concerns over attacks on Hindus after a massive uprising ended deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year rule in August. 

    This will be the first visit to be made by a senior Indian government official to Bangladesh since the interim government came to power on August 8. 

    “We expect that we will be able to overcome this impasse. Establishing mutual communication and meeting each other is very important to overcome any such stalemate,” Hossain told a seminar titled ‘SAARC – People of South Asia Crave’ at the National Press Club. “I hope they (foreign secretaries) will have a fruitful discussion,” he said. 

    He noted that it is important to acknowledge that there is a problem if they want to solve any problem.Hossain, a career diplomat, said it is also important to note that the relations between Bangladesh and India witnessed changes after August 5, and both sides need to try and take forward the relations and accept this changed reality. 

    The downturn that the two countries witnessed over the last few months in terms of bilateral business activities affected both sides, he said. He also referred to the impacts on businesses in Kolkata and West Bengal. 

    Bangladesh’s foreign office spokesperson Mohammad Rafiqul Alam said efforts were made to keep all the elements of the bilateral relations on the agenda during the Foreign Office Consultation with India. He described trade, border management, connectivity, and water issues as the key areas expected to be discussed. 

    The close ties between India and Bangladesh came under severe strain after Hasina was forced to leave the country in the face of a massive anti-government protest in August. Yunus came to power days after Hasina took shelter in India. 

    The relations deteriorated further in recent weeks over attacks on Hindus and the arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das. 

    There have been a spate of incidents of violence against Hindus and other minorities as well as attacks on temples in the neighbouring country in the last few weeks that triggered strong concerns in New Delhi. 

    “Our position on the matter is very clear — the interim government must live up to its responsibility of protecting all minorities,” External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on November 29. 

    India also hoped that the case relating to Bangladeshi monk Chinmoy Krishna Das, arrested on a charge of sedition, would be dealt with in a just, fair and transparent manner. 

    Kathmandu-based SAARC Journalists Forum organised Sunday’s seminar. Bangladesh interim government’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus in several media interviews expressed his desire to revive the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) as a vibrant regional grouping for mutual benefit. Hossain said Yunus was very sincere to revitalise the SAARC. 

    ALSO READ: Bangladesh’s Chief Advisor Yunus says country is united

  • With ‘Rising Rajasthan’, state eyes to emerge as $350 bn economy

    With ‘Rising Rajasthan’, state eyes to emerge as $350 bn economy

    Highlighting the efforts of his government, Rajasthan CM said that the Rajasthan government has launched 9 more policies on December 4 to enhance the business ecosystem in the state…reports Asian Lite News

    Ahead of the Rising Rajasthan Global Summit 2024, the Rajasthan government has secured a significant Rs 30 lakh crore in memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with businesses, said Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma at a Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) event in Jaipur.

    Speaking at the event on Sunday, Rajasthan CM Sharma said, “At this summit, MoUs of over Rs 30 lakh crore have already been signed, which is a testament to the unique and renewed trust of investors in the state. This trust has been built through our collective efforts, policies, and several important decisions. We have made significant changes in the policy framework to attract investment to the state.”

    Highlighting the efforts of his government, Rajasthan CM said that the Rajasthan government has launched 9 more policies on December 4 to enhance the business ecosystem in the state.

    “Recently, after the launch of RIPS 2024, we launched 9 more policies on December 4. We will continue this work, and, keeping your suggestions in mind, we will bring forward even more policies,” he said.

    Rajasthan CM further said that the state government is working on every aspect of skill development, infrastructure, a positive environment for investment, a transparent system, and promoting innovation and change with changing technologies so that the economy of the state is strong and stable and investor confidence is maintained.

    “Let us together take Rajasthan to a new era of development, investment, and employment. All of you contribute to achieving the target of doubling the economy of the state in 5 years… We all will work together to make India a developed India and fulfil the vision of PM Modi… The Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit will be held for three days on the 9th, 10th, and 11th of December,” he stated.

    CM Sharma further stated that the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit 2024 summit is not just an event but a cornerstone for the industrial prosperity of Rajasthan.

    “Certainly, in the future, Rajasthan will gain strength from this,” he stated.

    “This summit is being held for the first time in the state as a global investment meet, so that on one hand, Rajasthan’s industries can access international markets, and on the other hand, investors from various countries can contribute to further accelerating the progress of Rajasthan,” he stated, highlighting the importance of the event for the state.

    The Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit 2024, to be held from December 9 to 11 in Jaipur, is expected to attract global investors, industry leaders, policymakers, and government officials.

    The summit will be inaugurated in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will be in Jaipur on Monday. As per a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, PM Modi will inaugurate the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit 2024 at the Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC).

    PM to inaugurate Summit

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the ‘Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit 2024’ in Jaipur on Monday, according to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). The event is being organized at the Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC).

    As per his schedule, the Prime Minister will arrive at Jaipur airport on monday morning and reach the JECC. Upon arrival, he will inaugurate the summit and take a brief tour of the exposition in Hall B. The Prime Minister will then move to the Inaugural Hall (Hall-A), where he will be presented with a souvenir by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma. A children’s choir will then welcome the PM.

    Following the welcome, the Chief Minister will address the audience, followed by the screening of the Rising Rajasthan film. As per officials, ‘industry captains’, including Mukesh Ambani, Anil Agarwal, Anand Mahindra, Kumar Mangalam, and Karan Adani, will address the gathering. This will be followed by Prime Minister Modi’s special address. Following the Jaipur event, Modi will then travel to Panipat in Haryana, where he will launch the Bima Sakhi Yojana by the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), a scheme aimed at empowering women.

    The initiative will provide training to women aged 18-70 years, who have passed Class X, to become LIC agents. They will receive a stipend for the first three years to promote financial literacy and awareness. After completing their training, these women will have the opportunity to qualify for positions as LIC Development Officers.

    In Panipat, PM Modi will also lay the foundation stone for the main campus of Maharana Pratap Horticultural University in Karnal. The campus, covering 495 acres, will cost over Rs 700 crore and will focus on crop diversification and research in horticultural technologies. (ANI)

    ALSO READ-Modi to open Rising Rajasthan Global Summit on Dec 9 

  • Pope Francis’s visit to India likely after 2025

    Pope Francis’s visit to India likely after 2025

    The Indian delegation comprises former Minister of State (MoS) Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Congress MP Kodikunnil Suresh, Rajya Sabha MP Satam Singh Sandhu, BJP leaders Anil Antony, Anoop Antony and Tom Vadakkan…reports Asian Lite News

    Union Minister of State for Fisheries George Kurian on Saturday informed that the much-awaited Papal visit to India will happen only after 2025.

    Kurian, who is leading the Union government’s delegation to witness the ordination of Monsignor George Jacob Koovakad as a cardinal at a function in the Vatican City later on Saturday, said the visit of the Pope will happen only after 2025.

    “Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi had extended the official invite to the Pope to visit India. We have been informed that the Pope is busy during 2025 due to the jubilee celebrations and will rarely travel outside. So his visit to India will happen after that,” said MoS Kurian.

    The Indian delegation comprises former Minister of State (MoS) Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Congress MP Kodikunnil Suresh, Rajya Sabha MP Satam Singh Sandhu, BJP leaders Anil Antony, Anoop Antony and Tom Vadakkan.

    In 1986, then Pope John Paul II visited Kerala for two days to beatify Sister Alphonsa and Sister Kuriakose Elias Chavara. During the visit, Paul II stayed in Kochi and then travelled to Thrissur, Kottayam and Thiruvananthapuram.

    Christians in Kerala make up around 18 per cent of the state’s 32 million population, of which Catholics are the dominant group, comprising 50 per cent of the Christians in the state. There are three Catholic rites in Kerala — the Syro-Malabar, Latin, and the Syro Malankara Churches.

    ALSO READ-Indian priest elevated as Cardinal by Pope Francis

  • Indian priest elevated as Cardinal by Pope Francis

    Indian priest elevated as Cardinal by Pope Francis

    Hailing from the Archdiocese of Changanassery in Kerala, Koovakad’s appointment brings the total number of Indian cardinals to six, further strengthening the country’s representation in the Vatican…reports Asian Lite News

    In a grand consistory held in the Vatican on Saturday, 51-year-old Indian priest George Jacob Koovakad was elevated to the rank of cardinal by Pope Francis. The ceremony, held at the famous St Peter’s Basilica and attended by clergy and dignitaries from around the world, witnessed the induction of 21 new cardinals from various countries.

    The ceremony began at 8.30 pm (IST) marking a procession with 21 cardinal-designated to the altar of St Peter’s Basilica. Later, the Pope addressed the gathering and handed over the ceremonious cap and ring to the cardinal-designate, followed by a certificate accompanied by prayers.

    Hailing from the Archdiocese of Changanassery in Kerala, Koovakad’s appointment brings the total number of Indian cardinals to six, further strengthening the country’s representation in the Vatican. Political leaders led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, heads of church, and the faithful across India have welcomed the announcement with joy and pride.

    “It is a matter of immense pride for India that Archbishop George Koovakad will be created as a Cardinal by His Holiness Pope Francis,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on ‘X’ on Saturday. He said the Government of India sent a delegation led by Union Minister George Kurian to witness this ceremony.

    Prior to the ceremony, the Indian delegation also called on Pope Francis, his post further read. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, in his message, extended all greetings to the new cardinal, saying the elevation of priest George Koovakad is a recognition for the Christian community in India and Kerala and especially the Syro Malabar Church.

    Faithfuls from Kerala and across the world have expressed pride in the elevation of one of their own priests. Cardinal George Alencherry, the former Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, expressed his delight at the elevation of another Indian to the cardinalate.

    “He is a person who has rendered commendable services to the Church,” he said, adding that it is a proud moment for the Catholic Church, Kerala, and India. Cardinal Baselios Cleemis noted that this decision to directly elevate a priest is a special recognition.

    Priests from Changanassery hailed this as a proud moment for the Indian Church. Many believers from his hometown have travelled to the Vatican to witness the momentous occasion. Archbishop Mar Joseph Perumthottam hailed the moment as a big recognition for the believers.

    In Changanassery, parishioners and well-wishers celebrated the historic occasion with special prayers and thanksgiving services. The Indian delegation headed by Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs George Kurian, comprising former Union Ministers of State Kodikkunnil Suresh, former Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Rajya Sabha MP Satnam Singh Sandhu, BJP leaders Anil Antony, Anoop Antony, and Tom Vadakkan also witnessed the ordination ceremony.

    The episcopal consecration ceremony was held in Changanassery last month as part of his elevation to the rank of cardinal. Koovakad, has been organising Pope Francis’ international travels since 2020.

    Previously, Koovakad, who held the title of Monsignor, was declared the Titular Archbishop of Nisibis in Turkey. The priest is currently based in the Vatican.

    A delegation from the Archdiocese of Changanassery, to which he belongs, departed for the Vatican on Thursday to attend the ordination ceremony. The delegation was led by Changanassery Archbishop Mar Thomas Tharayil. Born on 11 August 1973 in Thiruvananthapuram, Koovakad was ordained as a priest on July 24, 2004. He later pursued training for diplomatic service at the prestigious Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy.

    In 2006, he began his diplomatic career at the Apostolic Nunciature in Algeria. Over the years, Koovakad held various significant roles, including Secretary of the Nunciature in South Korea (2009–2012) and Iran (2012–2014).

    He subsequently served as Counsellor of the Nunciatures in Costa Rica (2014–2018) and Venezuela (2018–2020). In 2020, he joined the Secretariat of State of the Holy See, where he assumed responsibility for organising the Pope’s global travels, according to the Church.

    Following the ordination ceremony, the new cardinals will visit the Pope at the Vatican Palace to receive his blessing.

    ALSO READ-Pope condemns ‘invader arrogance’ in Palestine, Ukraine 

  • Protests across Bengal over Bangladesh situation

    Protests across Bengal over Bangladesh situation

    At the demonstration outside the Salt Lake International Bus Terminus near Kolkata, protesters torched Dhakai Jamdani sarees of Bangladesh…reports Asian Lite News

    Protests were held in various parts of West Bengal on Sunday over the alleged atrocities on minority Hindus in Bangladesh.

    Hundreds of people joined the protest rallies organised by Hindutva groups in Kolkata, Kanthi, Kakdwip, Sandeshkhali and Purulia, calling for the immediate release of Hindu leader Chinmoy Krishna Das.

    At the demonstration outside the Salt Lake International Bus Terminus near Kolkata, protesters torched Dhakai Jamdani sarees from Bangladesh.

    They called for a boycott of Bangladeshi goods, warning that Indians wouldn’t remain silent if the disrespect toward the tricolour and attacks on Hindus continued.

    “We condemn the continuous targeting of Hindus in Bangladesh and the hate-driven narratives against India. We will not sit idle and with burning the Jamdani sarees, we urge people to boycott Bangladeshi products,” said a protestor.

    “What kind of Bangladesh is this? The people who fought for liberation in 1971 now seem to be erasing their own history,” said another protestor.

    Leading the protest rally in Kanthi, the state’s Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari said ‘sanatanis’ were united against rising fundamentalist forces in Bangladesh.

    “The martyrdom of 30,000 Indian soldiers in the 1971 Bangladesh liberation war has been forgotten by the Islamists in the neighbouring country. Today’s rally is a wake-up call to the elements across the border to stop rabble-rousing rhetoric,” he said.

    When asked about anti-India statements by Bangladeshi groups, Adhikari said that following international protocol and UN guidelines, the Narendra Modi government will take appropriate steps at the right moment.

    XXX

    Bangladesh optimistic about resolving standoff

    XXX

    Bangladesh and India will be able to overcome the stalemate in the relationship witnessed in recent months, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain said here on Sunday.

    His comments came ahead of Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s visit to Bangladesh on Monday during which he is likely to raise with Dhaka India’s concerns over attacks on Hindus after a massive uprising ended deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year rule in August.

    This will be the first visit to be made by a senior Indian government official to Bangladesh since the interim government came to power on August 8.

    “We expect that we will be able to overcome this impasse. Establishing mutual communication and meeting each other is very important to overcome any such stalemate,” Hossain told a seminar titled ‘SAARC – People of South Asia Crave’ at the National Press Club. “I hope they (foreign secretaries) will have a fruitful discussion,” he said.

    He noted that it is important to acknowledge that there is a problem if they want to solve any problem.Hossain, a career diplomat, said it is also important to note that the relations between Bangladesh and India witnessed changes after August 5, and both sides need to try and take forward the relations and accept this changed reality.

    The downturn that the two countries witnessed over the last few months in terms of bilateral business activities affected both sides, he said. He also referred to the impacts on businesses in Kolkata and West Bengal.

    Bangladesh’s foreign office spokesperson Mohammad Rafiqul Alam said efforts were made to keep all the elements of the bilateral relations on the agenda during the Foreign Office Consultation with India. He described trade, border management, connectivity, and water issues as the key areas expected to be discussed.

    The close ties between India and Bangladesh came under severe strain after Hasina was forced to leave the country in the face of a massive anti-government protest in August. Yunus came to power days after Hasina took shelter in India.

    The relations deteriorated further in recent weeks over attacks on Hindus and the arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das.

    There have been a spate of incidents of violence against Hindus and other minorities as well as attacks on temples in the neighbouring country in the last few weeks that triggered strong concerns in New Delhi.

    “Our position on the matter is very clear — the interim government must live up to its responsibility of protecting all minorities,” External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on November 29.

    India also hoped that the case relating to Bangladeshi monk Chinmoy Krishna Das, arrested on a charge of sedition, would be dealt with in a just, fair and transparent manner.

    Kathmandu-based SAARC Journalists Forum organised Sunday’s seminar. Bangladesh interim government’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus in several media interviews expressed his desire to revive the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) as a vibrant regional grouping for mutual benefit. Hossain said Yunus was very sincere to revitalise the SAARC.

    ALSO READ-Rajnath in Russia 

  • Rajnath in Russia   

    Rajnath in Russia   

    Singh is set to hold crucial discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin and co-chair the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military-Technical Cooperation alongside Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov 

    Defence Minister Rajnath Singh arrived in Moscow on an official visit during which he will witness the commissioning of a stealth warship into the Indian Navy and attend the 21st meeting of India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military & Military Technical Cooperation. 

    Singh received a warm welcome on late Sunday night by Indian Ambassador to Russia, Venkatesh Kumar, and Russian Deputy Minister of Defence, Alexander Fomin. 

    During his visit, Singh will also pay tributes at ‘The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier’ in Moscow to honour the Soviet soldiers killed during the Second World War. He will also interact with the members of the Indian community, a release said. 

    Singh is set to hold crucial discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin and co-chair the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military-Technical Cooperation (IRIGC M&MTC) alongside Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov. 

    Sharing a post on X, the Embassy of India in Russia wrote, “Hon’ble Raksha Mantri Shri @rajnathsingh was received by Ambassador @vkumar1969 and Russian Deputy Minister of Defence Alexander Fomin in Moscow.” 

    Singh will also engage with the Indian community in Russia. 

    “During the visit, Hon’ble Raksha Mantri will call on President Putin and co-chair the IRIGC M&MTC meeting with his Russian counterpart, Defence Minister Andrei Belousov. He will also take part in the commissioning ceremony of INS Tushil and interact with the Indian community,” the post added. 

    This visit aims to further deepen India- Russia defence cooperation in line with the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership, the Embassy of India in Russia wrote on X. 

    Earlier on Saturday, Singh shared a post on X about his visit to Russia. He wrote, “Tomorrow, 8th December, I shall be reaching Moscow in Russia to attend the 21st meeting of India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military & Military Technical Cooperation.” 

    “Also, I shall be attending the Commissioning ceremony of Indian Navy’s latest multi-role stealth-guided missile frigate ‘INS Tushil’ during my visit. Looking forward to it,” the post added. 

    It said that Defence Minister Singh and Belousov will co-chair the 21st meeting of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military and Military Technical Cooperation (IRIGC-M&MTC) in Moscow on December 10 (2024). 

    The Defence Minister’s visit to Russia comes five months after Prime Minister Narendra Modi travelled to Moscow and held summit talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. 

    In the talks, both sides decided to further bolster two-way Defence ties. Defence Minister Singh and Belousov will review the entire range of multi-faceted relations between the two countries in the field of Defence, including Military-to-military and industrial cooperation, the Defence Ministry said in the readout. 

    “They will also exchange views on contemporary regional and global issues of mutual interest,” it said. 

    People familiar with Singh’s visit said India-Russia cooperation in the co-production of Military hardware will figure prominently in the talks between the two Defence Ministers. 

    “As part of the visit, the Defence Minister will also commission the Indian Navy’s latest multi-role stealth guided missile frigate Tushil at Yantra Shipyard, Kaliningrad on December 9 (2024),” the Ministry said. 

    The warship, billed as one of the most technologically advanced frigates globally, is expected to significantly bolster the Indian Navy’s operational capability in the Indian Ocean, a region that has witnessed increasing Chinese forays. 

    Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi will accompany Singh to the commissioning ceremony. 

    It said Defence Minister Singh will also pay tributes at “The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier” in Moscow to honour the Soviet soldiers killed during the Second World War. He is also scheduled to interact with the members of the Indian community in Moscow. 

    Putin’ India visit 

    Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India for the annual summit next year, and the dates for the same will be worked out through diplomatic channels, the Ministry of External Affairs said last week. 

    “We have with Russia an arrangement of annual summits. The last annual summit was held in Moscow, for which the Prime Minister travelled to Moscow. The next one is scheduled to be held in India next year, that is, and the dates for the same will be worked out through diplomatic channels,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in the weekly press briefing. 

    President Putin has received an invitation to visit India from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the dates for his visit will be set in early 2025, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov said on December 2. 

    While addressing a briefing, Ushakov stated that Putin and PM Modi have an agreement to hold meetings once a year and it is Russia’s turn this time, according to Russian Embassy in India. 

    “Our leaders have an agreement to hold meetings once a year. This time, it’s our turn,” the diplomat stated, adding, “We received Mr. Modi’s invitation and we will certainly consider it positively.” 

    Notably, this will be Putin’s first visit to India since the beginning of the conflict between Ukraine and Russia in 2022. India has always advocated “peace and diplomacy” for resolving conflict between Ukraine and Russia. 

    Putin and PM Modi remain in regular contact, holding talks over phone-call once every couple of months, according to Russian Embassy in India. The two leaders also hold in-person meetings. This year, the two leaders met twice as PM Modi in July travelled to Moscow to participate in the 22nd Russia-India summit. (ANI) 

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