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Paras Health Panchkula Launches Two Dedicated Facilities For Respiratory Care

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Dr Robin Gupta, pulmonologist, Paras Health Panchkula, addressing media persons on World COPD Day on Nov 20, 2024 to announce launch of new dedicated facilities for respiratory care by the hospital. He is flanked by other pulmonologists Dr SK Gupta (to his right) and Dr Kritarth (to his left). Dr Gaurav Bindal, medical superintendent of the hospital, is on the extreme right
Opening of Asthma Precision Clinic and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Services coincides with World COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) Day observed on Wednesday (Nov 20, 2024)

It is the fourth leading cause of death worldwide, approximately 5% of all global deaths, and eighth leading marker of poor health, yet it is most neglected. In India, there are 70 million (7 crore) patients of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), 6% of whom suffer from serious asthma, a condition in which despite treatment and care symptoms remain uncontrolled.

Coinciding with the World COPD Day, organized by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) with “Know Your Lung Function” as the theme for 2024, pulmonologists from Paras Health (hospital) Panchkula at a press conference on Wednesday announced the launch two dedicated facilities to provide focused care for respiratory diseases such as severe asthma and COPD under one roof.

Pulmonologists Dr Robin Gupta, Dr SK Gupta and Dr Kritarth shared with the media persons that the aim of the newly launched Asthma Precision Clinic and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (PR) services is to address the rising burden of respiratory conditions in the region by offering innovative diagnostics, personalized treatments, and comprehensive support.

Cautioning people against ignoring symptoms like chronic cough, breathlessness and fatigue as normal, related to change of season or advancing age, etc., the doctors advised medical consultation and investigations in such cases before these conditions develop into more serious respiratory diseases.

This assumes greater importance especially in the wake of recent severe air pollution being witnessed in several parts of North India because poor air quality exacerbates conditions like asthma and COPD and increases the risk of pneumonia and lung cancer.

They informed that the Asthma Precision Clinic is designed to deliver individualized care to patients with severe asthma. By integrating biological therapies, FeNO (Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide) testing, and skin prick testing, the clinic ensures precise diagnosis and tailored treatment plans.

Biological therapies specifically target inflammatory pathways to manage severe asthma symptoms, while FeNO testing provides real-time insights into airway inflammation for more accurate treatment adjustments. Skin prick testing helps identify allergen triggers, allowing patients to adopt customized allergen management strategies.

The lung experts further shared that introduction of the Asthma Precision Clinic is a crucial step toward improving asthma care in the region. By focusing on individualized treatment and addressing specific triggers, the aim is to help patients achieve better asthma control and lead healthier lives.

The Pulmonary Rehabilitation programme will provide comprehensive support to patients suffering from COPD. This multidisciplinary approach focuses on improving lung function, reducing symptoms such as breathlessness and fatigue, and enhancing overall quality of life.

The programme incorporates exercise training, disease management education, behavioral counseling, nutrition advice, and psychosocial support to ensure a holistic treatment experience. It will not only reduce hospitalizations but also help patients regain independence and improve their mental well-being through targeted interventions.

About World COPD Day

It is organized by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) in collaboration with health care professionals and COPD patient groups throughout the world. Its aim is to raise awareness, share knowledge, and discuss ways to reduce the burden of COPD worldwide.

The 2024 theme for World COPD Day is “Know Your Lung Function.” World COPD Day takes place on November 20th. This year’s theme aims to highlight the importance of measuring lung function, also known as spirometry. Although spirometry is an integral tool for diagnosing COPD, it can also be used to measure lung health throughout life.

We now know that there are many other factors besides tobacco smoke that can contribute to COPD. Our lungs are continuing to grow from the womb all the way through young adulthood. Throughout this period, we are vulnerable to insults such as air pollution and respiratory infections that can impede lung growth and increase our risk for developing chronic lung disease later in life.

Unfortunately, much lung function can be lost before we develop symptoms. Lung function is not only a predictor of lung health, but our overall health. Even small decrements in lung function are associated with increased risk of death. Measuring lung function throughout life can provide opportunities for early diagnosis and prompt treatment of multiple lung diseases, including COPD.

Following is the link to WHO website for more info on COPD:

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-(copd)#:~:text=Chronic%20obstructive%20pulmonary%20disease%20(COPD)%20is%20the%20fourth%20leading%20cause,%2Dincome%20countries%20(LMIC). 

Much Awaited 12th Edition Of Chandigarh Lit Fest – Literati 2024 Is Here

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The opening day of the three-day fest (Nov 22) will have a soulful musical evening ‘Aaghaaz – Shaam-E-Ghazal’ at Rani Laxmi Bai Bhawan in Sector 38 featuring renowned artist Kanwar Jagmohan
Chandigarh Lake Club on Nov 23 and 24 will be venue to thought-provoking discussions, book launches, engaging sessions, and book readings featuring some of the most renowned names in literature, art, and culture
One of the highlights will be launch of book on Ratan Tata, ‘The Legend Lives On: A Man Called Ratan Tata’
Among other highlights, actor Tusshar Kapoor will discuss challenges of single fatherhood

Over the years it has become the most important literary event on the annual art and culture calendar of the Union territory of Chandigarh, and literature lovers look forward to its dates being announced around this time of the year. The wait is over! Chandigarh Literary Society (CLS) on Saturday announced a power-packed line-up of authors and literary activities for the 12th Edition of Chandigarh Lit Fest (CLF) – Literati 2024 to be held from November 22 to 24.

Sharing details of the literary extravaganza at press conference, Festival Director of CLF Literati 2024 and Chairperson of CLS Dr Sumita Misra said, “Themed on ‘Celebrating Creativity,’ the 3-day literary festival promises an exciting mix of thought-provoking discussions, book launches, engaging sessions, and book readings featuring some of the most renowned names in literature, art, and culture.”

The festival will commence with a soulful musical evening, Aaghaaz – Shaam-E-Ghazal, featuring the renowned artist Kanwar Jagmohan at the Rani Laxmi Bai Bhawan in Sector 38 on November 22.

Thereafter, on November 23 and 24, the venue of the literary sessions will move to the Chandigarh Lake Club. On both days the sessions will start around 11 a.m. and continue till evening.

The detailed programme

November 23

• Musical performance “Chords from the Heart” by Pt. Subhash Ghosh.
• Keynote address: Madhav Kaushik, President of the Rashtriya Sahitya Akademi
• Launch of ‘Ratan Tata: A Life,’ a compelling new biography by Dr. Thomas Mathew, a retired bureaucrat, followed by an interactive session with the author
• Session on “Punjab: The Jallianwala Bagh Tragedy and the Narratives Around It” will have speakers Kishwar Desai, an award-winning author, playwright & historian; and Navtej Sarna, former Indian Ambassador to USA
• Session “Punjab di Zubaan: Young Poets Discuss Punjabi Poetry in Current Times” will have young poets Randhir Uppal, Wahid Khadial, and Jassi Sangha delving into the evolving landscape of Punjabi poetry
• Session, “Legal Landmarks: Charting the Path of Justice” will feature Pinky Anand, a renowned lawyer & politician who has served as an Additional Solicitor General at the Supreme Court of India and lawyer Saudamini Sharma, who will discuss key legal milestones in India’s history
• “Voices of Valour: Stories of Bravehearts,” with General Ian Cardozo (retd.), the first officer of the Indian Army to be awarded the Sena Medal for gallantry; and General Syed Ata Hasnain, a highly decorated Indian Army officer and one of the foremost writers and analysts on J&K, Pakistan & Middle East
• “Ink and Imagination: Crafting Poetic Worlds,” will see Dr. Sumita Misra, a prominent poet of contemporary India & the recipient of multiple Chandigarh Sahitya Akademi Awards, in conversation with writer Aradhika Sharma on the art of crafting poetry
• Session “Daddy in the Driver’s Seat: A Single Father’s Experiences” will feature Bollywood actor Tusshar Kapoor, who has ventured into writing with his debut book ‘Bachelor Dad: My Journey’, a memoir that explores his experiences as a single father of his son Laksshya, born through surrogacy in 2016.

November 24

• Session ‘In Memoriam: A Tribute to Dr. Surjit Patar,’ by Poet Amy Singh and Jassi Sangha, a well-known Punjabi writer, assistant director, and film researcher.
• “History as Storytelling: Reviving the Lost Chapters,” led by author Ira Mukhoty, a best- selling writer of narrative history and author of ‘Akbar: The Great Mughal’
• Discussion on “Beauty in Diversity: Love, Language, and Poetry” featuring Rakshanda Jalil, a multi-award-winning translator, writer, and literary historian and Vijai Vardhan, a senior retired bureaucrat whose most recent book ‘Happening Haryana’ captures the history of Haryana from the Harappan age to the present
• “Sahitya Samvad: Katha aur Kalpana”: Dr. Madhav Kaushik, an eminent Hindi poet and author, who is also President, National Sahitya Akademi; and Jitendra Srivastava, a renowned poet and critic with 30 books to his credit will discuss the interplay of storytelling and imagination in Indian literature
• Session ‘AI and Creativity: Friend or Foe?’ will see Author Khushwant Singh, and Affan Yesvi, a Sufi scholar, columnist, and entrepreneur, in conversation with Renu Sinha, where they will deliberate on AI’s leap into the creative cosmos
• “The Power of Narrative Theater and Beyond”: theatre doyen MK Raina, known for his contributions as an actor, theatre director, filmmaker, scriptwriter, academic and author; and Padma Shri Neelam Mansingh Chowdhry, a widely known theatre artist and director, will discuss the transformative power of theatre as a medium of storytelling
• Session “Echoes of 1984: Loss , Survival & Identity Narratives of Loss, Survival, and Identity” will offer a poignant discussion with eminent writer Bubbu Tir and Sanam Sutirath Wazir, a human rights activist and author of ‘The Kaurs of 1984: The Untold, Unheard Stories of Sikh Women’
• “Exploring India’s Civilizational Wealth: Language, Spirituality, and Heritage” will feature Pavan Varma, a writer-diplomat who has written over a dozen best-selling books; and Sankrant Sanu, an author and the founder and CEO of the publishing house Garuda Prakashan, who will offer an insightful exploration of India’s rich cultural tapestry
• “Fear and Folly: The Intersection of Horror and Satire” will see authors Soham Shah Soham, a filmmaker, fine artist, advertising company creator, and author who has debuted with novel ‘Blood Moon’; and Karan Oberoi, a model and the founder of India’s first boy-band ‘A band of boys’ will explore the delightful and disturbing blend of horror and satire in contemporary narratives

The festival will also witness the launch of more thana half dozen books in the ‘Book Buzz’ activities. These are “Udaari (Punjabi)” by Sarabjit Singh Madan; “The Diva Who Died to Live” by Sharat Ralhan; “Sulagdi Dharti” by Dr. Sanjeev Kumari RJ; ‘The Diva Who Died to Live’ by author Sharat; ‘Geisha in the Gota Patti’ by author Chetna Keer; ‘Udgar’ by author Sarika Dhupar; ‘Reflections of Ram Sevak’ by author Anirudh Tiwari.

 

 

Art Comes To Chandigarh ‘Naturally’ @105arts

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Exhibits from the art exhibition 'Naturally' which goes public at '105arts' private galley in Chandigarh's Sector 11 from Saturday (16.11.2024). PHOTOS BY: LifeInChandigarh.com
The nature-inspired exhibition is displaying powerful works of 13 well-known artists from across the country

Private art gallery ‘105arts’ in Chandigarh’s sector 11 has become a landmark for art lovers in the tricity and around, bringing quality exhibitions of well-known artists from across the country every few months. Starting Saturday, the gallery, founded by art lover Mehak Bhan in 2021, is offering us an opportunity to immerse ourselves in a
nature-inspired exhibition, ‘Naturally’, displaying powerful works of 13 artists.

At a private viewing for media and a select gathering on Friday evening, Mehak took us around the exhibition and shared: “Inspired by being natural as our fundamental state, we present ‘Naturally’ that brings together the works of 13 remarkable contemporary artists from across India, each of whom taps into the elemental beauty of the natural world through their own distinctive lens.”

Giving details, she said “From the serene landscapes of Bhaskar Rao Botcha to the contemplative horizons of Vinod Sharma, and the vibrant, life-affirming forms of Ganapati Hegde and Pappu Bardhan, the art works invite us to slow down, to reflect, and to reconnect with what lies beyond the surface.

“Through the interplay of light, colour, and texture, artists like Sucharita Sengupta Suri also remind us of nature’s quiet, enduring power and its ability to evoke a deep emotional response.”

Further, the exhibition puts the spotlight on the transformative power of ceramics in the hands of Anuja, whose work brings earthy textures and organic forms to life.

Dolly Dhillon, Manish Chavda, Samir Mohanty, and Shuvankar Maitra each contribute their unique perspectives, merging the essence of nature with deeply personal expressions. Whether it’s through vivid landscapes, abstract interpretations, or intricate details, they invite us to see nature not just as a backdrop, but as a central narrative of life itself.

105arts founder and curator Mehak Bhan

According to Mehak, the purpose behind ‘105arts’ gallery is to provide an accessible platform for artists – upcoming and established, as well as to bridge the gap between avid art collectors, first time buyers and art viewers. “Easy to exhibit, walk in, enjoy art and if something is compelling enough, to take it home,” she added.

Public Viewing: November 16-22, 2024
Timings: 11am to 5pm
Venue: #105, Sector 11, Chandigarh

Interfaith Harmony Symposium Resonates With Large Chandigarh Tricity Audience

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A book ‘101 Divine Thoughts of Guru Nanak Ji’, authored by Col. Daljeet Singh Cheema (retd.), being released at the Interfaith Harmony Symposium, organised at Bhavan Vidyalaya, Panchkula, on 14.11.2024. PHOTOS BY: LifeInChandigarh.com
Brainchild of well-known author-mentor Col DS Cheema (retd.), event hosted and organised by Bhavan Vidyalaya, Panchkula to commemorate Guru Nanak’s 555th birth anniversary

It was a serious attempt at revive the age-old practice of interfaith dialogue to trigger a process of bringing about greater harmony among people of various faiths. And, the Interfaith Harmony Symposium organised at Bhavan Vidyalaya, Panchkula, which brought together experts from various fields, including preachers, thinkers, authors, jurists, teachers, artists, and military men, proved highly successfully in opening the minds of a large audience, including school students, to the common message enshrined in the tenets of all religions – of love, compassion, understanding, tolerance and acceptance.

A brainchild of well-known author, mentor, trainer and motivator Col Daljeet Singh Cheema (retd.), the symposium was organised in collaboration with the Bhavan Vidyalaya, Panchkula, in the school premises on Thursday to commemorate the 555th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak.

The symposium had four panel discussions on different themes – ‘Dichotomies of our times and the need for interfaith dialogue, Spiritual perspective of interfaith dialogue’; ‘Guru Nanak’s philosophy for searching peace, harmony and happiness, Music as creed of worship in Guru Nanak’s ‘baani’, Sufi perspective of love for humanity’; ‘All faiths are faiths of love and compassion, religion and spirituality’; and ‘Interfaith harmony in Armed Forces’.

A book ‘101 Divine Thoughts of Guru Nanak Ji’, authored by Col. Daljeet Singh Cheema (retd.), was also released.

Panellists in all four sessions emphasised that there are no differences or conflicts between religions, but lack of understanding of our own and others’ religion, coupled with sustained campaigns of misinformation and falsehood by vested interests, including politicians and religious leaders, was fuelling mistrust and tensions between religious communities.

Though the forms and symbols of worship may differ in various religions, but all agree with the Oneness of God, who has created this beautiful Universe, was the message which came out loud and clear from the symposium.

The panellists were also one in stressing that to love God, people of all faiths need to love His creations in all forms.

Bhavan Vidyalaya, Panchkula students sing a ‘shabad’ at the Interfaith Harmony Symposium

Urging people to make it a point to read religious scriptures to be able to better appreciate the commonalities in the tenets of different religions, the panellists encouraged them to hold honest and healthy dialogues and discussions with people around them, only then they will realise that love is intrinsic in all human beings.

The importance music as a means of spreading the universal message of love and compassion, as practiced by Guru Nanak, was also underscored in the symposium.
In the last panel discussion, the Indian armed forces were presented as a role model for tolerance, acceptance and respect for all religions.

An example was given of a journalist once asking a top-ranking military officer how many Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs and members of other religions there are in the Indian armed forces, and getting a stunning reply, “None! In our Services, we have only soldiers, airmen and sailors.”

The symposium aptly began with Musicality and Sikh Faith by Sunaini Guleria Sharma and rebab rendition by Kaka Gurdeep Singh Rababi, while Bhavan students sang an inter-faith song and ‘shabad’.

Participants were treated to a special millets lunch designed and prepared by well-known chef Vikas Chawla at his speciality millets restaurant Jhumroo in Mohali.

One Michelin Star Winning Houston Restro, Musaafer Has A Chandigarh Connect

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Executive Corporate Chef Mayank Istwal (with cap) flanked by Musaafer co-owners Shammi and Mithu Malik at the award ceremony in Houston, Texas, after receiving the One Michelin Star designation on Monday night. PHOTOS CREDIT: Musaafer
Restaurant co-owners, couple Shammi (Gurpreet) & Mithu Malik hail from Chandigarh
Musaafer’s Executive Corporate Chef Mayank Istwal is from Dehradun

Hailing from Chandigarh, couple Shammi and Mithu Malik have been making waves with their authentic Indian and contemporary cuisine restaurant Musaafer in Houston, Texas, USA. The popularity of the restaurant located in the Galleria shopping mall in Houston has now won it international recognition having won its first coveted Michelin star designation.

Musaafer is among only six restaurants in Houston city and 15 in entire Texas state to win One Michelin star designation, which recognises a restaurant’s “high-quality cooking” and deems it “worth a stop.” Houston has a staggering 12,000 small and big restaurants.

Musaafer’s Executive Corporate Chef Mayank Istwal, who hails from Dehradun, received the famous embroidered Michelin star jacket in the inaugural invite-only Michelin Guide Ceremony 2024 Texas, a private award ceremony held at the 713 Music Hall in Houston on Monday night (US time), accompanied by the co-owners of the restaurant Shammi and Mithu Malik.

The ceremony kicked off with a message from floating astronauts, including Indian origin Sunita Williams, from the International Space Station (ISS). Houston is home to NASA’s pioneering Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center.

In an exclusive telephonic with your own news portal LifeInChandigarh.com, Shammi (Gurpreet) shared: “Musaafer, an Urdu word for traveller, is an outcome of a quest for authentic recipes and their ingredients from the vast and multi-cultural Indian sub-continent, for which Chef Mayank Istwal was sent on an ambitious 100-day journey across 29 Indian states and beyond, to gather stories and experiences along the way and bring home age old regional recipes, which have been translated into the restaurant’s eclectic menu.”

Shammi further said, “The intention of Musaafer’s gastronomic experience is to showcase our homeland in a manner that authentically honours the country’s culinary diversity. It is an educational tour for our diners, where Executive Corporate Chef Mayank Istwal vows to take you on the 100-day journey, which he embarked on through the 29 states of India and beyond.

“With his cutting-edge skill, creativity and imagination, the chef translates his redefined vision for traditional Indian recipes into stunning, new-age plate presentations and also ensures that Indian cuisine holds the same place on the global culinary stage as any other top cuisine.”

Though this aspect is not considered in the Michelin star-rating, the restaurant’s interiors present both the grandeur and simplicity of the Indian heritage.

Quoting a food critic, “dinner in a shopping mall doesn’t sound promising, unless you’re headed to Musaafer. The sheer scale of this grand hall, with its arches, towering windows, labyrinth-like layout, and elaborate patterns, feels like a palace of its own.”

Another critic has written, “This larger-than-life restaurant is reminiscent of a palace, with stunning artwork, fabrics, furniture, and décor all imported from India. Beyond the glitz and glamour, there’s a menu chock-full of sensational bites, such as tandoori octopus and the chef’s exquisite mushroom ceviche. The authentic Indian aromas, spices, curries, and flavours will transport you to the subcontinent – no passport required!”

Reacting to the One Michelin Star designation, Shammi and Mithu, while sharing their gratitude for the award, said: “It reflects the dedication, passion, and tireless efforts of our entire Musaafer family. This honour reaffirms our commitment to delivering an unparalleled dining experience inspired by the rich culinary heritage of India.”
Commenting on the Michelin recognition, Executive Corporate Chef Mayank Istwal said:

“The Michelin recognition is not only a personal achievement for Musaafer, but also a reflection of Houston’s thriving culinary landscape. We feel incredibly honoured to stand among so many talented chefs and restaurateurs in this vibrant city, and we are excited to see Houston’s dining culture continue to flourish.”

www.facebook.com/musaaferhouston 

World’s Highest Mudh-Nyoma Fighter Airfield In Ladakh Becomes Operational

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The runway of the under construction world's highest fighter airfield at Mudh-Nyoma in eastern Ladakh
95% work on the nearly 3-km runway complete, enabling emergency operations of heavy lift military transport aircraft and frontline fighter jets
Airfield will become fully operational by September 2025

Imagine a nearly 3 km runway at a challenging altitude of 13,700 feet, on tough terrain and in harsh weather conditions, where temperatures can drop to as low as minus-35 degrees Celsius, being constructed and readied for emergency operations in a record time of a year!

Yes, India’s Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has made it possible by completing 95% work on the runway at Mudh in Nyoma subdivision of the newly announced Changthang district of eastern Ladakh as on end of October this year on what was earlier an advanced landing ground (ALG).

The airstrip is now ready for emergency landing of heavy lift aircraft as well as advanced fighter jets of the Indian Air Force (IAF).

With the completion of the other allied infrastructure like hangars for the aircraft, air traffic control building, and hard-standing areas, etc., Mudh-Nyoma will become fully operational for normal flight operations by September 2025 as the highest fighter airfield in the world.

Nyoma is on the southern shores of Pangong Tso lake and Mudh-Nyoma airfield, just 35 kms from the Line of Actual Control (LAC) along the India-China border and about 200 kms from Leh city, is expected to provide a strategic boast to the Indian military for rapid mobilisation, deployment of forces and other resources and carrying out regular air patrol and reconnaissance missions.

The advanced landing ground was already being utilised for operating a fleet of helicopters, including Mi-17 medium-lift helicopters, CH-47F Chinook heavy-lift helicopters, and AH-64E Apache attack helicopters ever since the armed Galwan clash between the Indian and Chinese troops in 2020 lead to heightened tensions and massive aggressive deployment of troops and heavy weaponry on both sides of the contested border.

Apart from providing strategic military advantage, the Mudh-Nyoma airfield is expected to stimulate economic growth in this remote region by providing improved civilian connectivity to local communities and tourists alike.

According to Colonel Ponung Doming, the first female Colonel rank officer from Arunachal Pradesh with the BRO and Commander of the 755 Border Roads Task Force (BRTF) under Project Himank, the Rs 218 crore project has involved a significant manpower effort, with up to 450 labourers being deployed through harsh summer and winter conditions.

Currently, Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee (KBR) Airport serves as the main air hub, with military equipment and other supplies being transported overland to forward positions from there.

Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee (KBR) Airport

India has a new CJI In Justice Sanjiv Khanna

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Justice Sanjiv Khanna signing necessary documents after being sworn-in as the 51st Chief Justice of India at the Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi on 11.11.2014. PHOTOS CREDIT: X/@rashtrapatibhvn
He succeeds Justice DY Chandrachud, who retired on Sunday (Nov. 10)
His term will last nearly seven months, till May 13, 2025

India has a new chief justice. President Draupadi Murmu administered the oath of office as Chief Justice of India (CJI) to Justice Sanjiv Khanna Monday (November 11, 2024).

Among those present at the swearing-in ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan were Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ministers, former chief justices of India, sitting and retired judges of the Supreme Court and high courts.

Justice Khanna will have a nearly seven-month term till May 13, 2025.

He was elevated to the Supreme Court from the Delhi High Court on January 18, 2019, without ever holding the office of chief justice of a high court.

CJI Sanjiv Khanna is the nephew of legendary Justice HR Khanna, who championed the cause of personal liberty during the dark days of Emergency in 1977, and which cost him his office as Chief Justice of India.

Notable judgments of Justice Khanna

Justice Khanna was part of the bench which took suo motu cognisance of the media reports making sexual harassment allegations against the then CJI Ranjan Gogoi in April 2019.

In 2019, Justice Khanna wrote the lead judgment on behalf of the Constitution Bench which held that the RTI Act is applicable to the office of the CJI.

Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s judgment in Amish Devgan vs Union of India is notable for emphasising the need to regulate hate speeches.

In 2021, Justice Sanjiv Khanna dissented from the 2-judge majority to hold that requisite processes were not followed for the Central Vista project.

Justice Khanna wrote the judgment on behalf of the Constitution Bench which held that irretrievable breakdown can be a ground for the Supreme Court to dissolve marriage invoking powers under Article 142 of the Constitution.

Justice Khanna dealt with the politically sensitive matters regarding the bail applications of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh in the Delhi liquor policy case.

In 2023, his bench refused bail to Manish Sisodia but directed that the trial should be completed expeditiously. In the Sanjay Singh case, ED conceded the grant of bail after facing concerted questioning from Justice Khanna’s bench.

In May this year, in a one-of-its-first-kind order, Justice Khanna’s bench allowed interim bail to the then Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for the purposes of election campaigning.
In July, Justice Khanna’s bench granted interim bail to Kejriwal referring the matter to a larger bench to examine the need to include further grounds for arrest under the PMLA to prevent abuse of the law.

Justice Khanna’s bench also dealt with the EVM-VVPAT matter. While refusing plea for 100% VVPAT verification, the judgment directed the ECI to introduce further safeguards.

He was also part of the Constitution Bench decisions in Article 370 and Electoral Bonds cases. In the Electoral Bonds matter, he penned a separate but concurring opinion detailing how the anonymous scheme violated Constitutional rights.

Skoda Unveils Sub-4 Metre SUV Kylaq, starting @ Rs 7.89 Lakh Ex-Showroom

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Global reveal made ahead of January 2025 launch
Comfortable and roomy: Great driving dynamics and spacious interior with segment-leading boot-space of 446 litres
Comprehensive safety systems: Wide range of active and passive safety features as standard, including six airbags
Modern Solid: The new Kylaq bears elements of Škoda’s new design language, boasting a robust look
Proven powertrain: The powerful yet efficient 1.0 TSI provides 85kW and 178Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission

Škoda Auto India has created a buzz in the auto market with the unveiling of its first ever sub-4 metre SUV, Kylaq, aggressively priced at Rs 7.89 lakh (ex-showroom). The company claims that with the Škoda Kylaq, designed in India and for India, and planned as a new entry point to the brand, will usher in a new era for Škoda Auto in India as it enters new markets and attracts new customers into its fold.

Bookings open from December 2, 2024. The launch will happen in January 2025.

Says Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Škoda Auto: “India, world’s third-largest car market, is key to our internationalisation plans and SUVs make up 50% of new vehicle sales. We want the Kylaq to welcome new customers who are looking at this popular and fast-growing segment.

“Adding to its appeal, the Kylaq marks the debut in India of our Modern Solid design language, with new visual accents. It also beckons with a wide choice of variants, colours, features and a standard package of over 25 active and passive safety technologies. At a very competitive starting price of INR 7,89,000 (ex-showroom), the Kylaq is the most accessible Škoda model in India.”

Škoda says that Kylaq has been named by India and is derived from the Sanskrit term for a crystal and is named after Mount Kailash, just as the larger SUV Kushaq, which is the Sanskrit word for an emperor.

The Kylaq adds to the company’s roster of SUVs like Kodiaq, the large 4×4, and the mid-sized Kushaq.

Adds Martin Jahn, Škoda Auto Board Member for Sales and Marketing: “The Škoda Kylaq is our third model that is ‘made in India for India’ and it represents a significant milestone in our regional sales strategy.

“By offering an exceptional price-value proposition, a spacious and functional interior, numerous advanced safety features, and superior handling, the Kylaq is poised to attract a broad range of new customer groups. We are confident that the Kylaq is the right step to make European technology more accessible to potential customers and strengthen our brand presence on the Indian market.”

Segment-first tailored features

• Six-way electric seats with ventilation for the driver and front passenger.
• Best-in-segment boot space measuring 446 litres (expandable to 1,256 litres with rear seats folded)
• Auto Climatronic, with ventilation for the electrically adjustable front seats
• Select variants available with electric sunroof
• Cruise control, steering-mounted paddle-shifters with the six-speed automatic gearbox, leatherette seats, wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay and wireless charging among other features.
• 25.6cms infotainment screen with an even more intuitive user interface.
• Driver gets a 20.32cms Virtual Cockpit with a renewed interface

Piyush Arora, Managing Director and CEO, Škoda Auto Volkswagen India says, “I’m extremely proud to unveil the Škoda Kylaq to India and to the world. With its high levels of localisation, unmatched driving dynamics and uncompromising safety, Kylaq will make a significant impact in the market.”

In a press release, Škoda Auto shared that its biggest year in terms of sales in India was 2022. Combined with the year 2023, the company sold over 100,000 cars in a 2-year period. Earlier, it had taken the company six years to achieve the landmark, highlighting the rapid pace of growth undertaken by the company ever since the MQB-A0-IN platform has been put into action. With Kylaq, Skoda Auto will significantly increase its addressable market share in India, with a target of 100,000 sales annually by 2026.

Shares Petr Janeba, Brand Director, Škoda Auto India: “We are aware of entering what is currently the most competitive segment in India. And are confident the Kylaq has what it takes to make an impact with its safety and driving dynamics. We believe we have stuck to our promise of accessible pricing of the Kylaq and look forward to ensure that it democratises European technology in India.”

Power with performance and safety

The Kylaq is claimed to accelerate to 100kph in 10.5 seconds with the manual transmission. The SUV also has a top speed of 188kph. Its 1.0 TSI engine produces 85kW of power and 178Nm of torque. This powerplant is mated to a six-speed manual or a six-speed torque converter automatic with paddle shifters in select variants.

The car is based on the same MQB-A0-IN platform as the Kushaq and Slavia. These two cars have already scored a full 5-stars in Global NCAP tests for adults and children. The Kylaq comes standard with over 25 active and passive safety features, including six airbags, traction and stability control, anti-lock brakes, Electronic Brake Distribution, Brake Disc Wiping, Roll Over Protection, Motor Slip Regulation, Electronic Differential Lock, Passenger airbag de-activation, Multi Collision Braking and ISOFIX seats and many others.

Škoda Kylaq walkaround by Overdrive:

Autocar India:

With Letter Of Intent Submitted, Should India Fancy Its Chances To Host 2036 Olympics!

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IOA president PT Usha says, since last year, we have maintained regular communication with IOC president Thomas Bach and with the officials of the Future Host Commission
Indian officials attended the executive program and observer program organised by the IOC at the Paris Olympics
Despite squabbling within the organisation, IOA chief confident that India will be viewed by the IOC as a ‘gracious host’

It all started with India, celebrating the 75th anniversary of its independence from British rule in 1947, deciding to bid for hosting the annual session of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in Mumbai after a gap of 40 years, the first session having been hosted in New Delhi in 1983.

While making a pitch for hosting the session, the IOC member in India since 2016, Nita Ambani, one of the members of the Indian delegation which made a remote presentation to IOC members, had said “I believe this is only the beginning, and it is time to elevate our partnership with the Olympic Movement to greater heights,” apparently referring to the country’s ambition to host the Olympic Games in the future.

After the successful bid, India hosted the IOC session in Mumbai in October 2023.
Speaking in the opening ceremony, Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirmed that India indeed will bid to host the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

While committing that “India will leave no stone unturned in preparation for the successful organisation of the Olympics in 2036 – this is the dream of the 140 crore (1.4 billion) Indians”, he had sought support from the highest world sports body, saying “We want to realise this dream with your support. I am sure India will get constant support from IOC.”

So, when Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha revealed in a video statement posted on her ‘X’ handle on November 6 that a letter of intent expressing the country’s desire to host the 2036 Summer Olympics and Paralympics has been submitted by the IOA to the IOC’s Future Host Commission, it marked the first official concrete step taken by the country in its efforts towards realising the dream.

In the multi-layered, complex and long drawn selection process for venue of the 2036 Summer Olympics, India could potentially face stiff competition from other countries which have also expressed their desire to bid for the games, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Egypt, Turkey, Hungary and Chile. But given its increasing clout in world affairs, it’s by no means an impossible task.

Los Angeles in the USA and Brisbane in Australia are already confirmed as hosts of the 2028 and 2032 Summer Olympics, respectively.

India is seeking to become only the fourth Asian country ever to host the Summer Olympics in the history of the quadrennial event after China, South Korea and Japan.

In her video statement, PT Usha said, “Since last year, we have maintained regular communication with IOC president Thomas Bach and with the officials of the Future Host Commission. We also remained in touch with the officials at the Paris Olympics, during which our officers attended the executive program and observer program organised by the IOC. These interactions and learnings led to the submission of the letter of intent in early October.”

Admitting to internal squabbling with the IOA, Usha nonetheless assured that “Despite some internal challenges within the IOA, our commitment remains steadfast. I am optimistic that India will be viewed by the IOC as a gracious host.”

After the success of the G20, hosting the Summer Olympics is seen as another great leap in Modi’s quest for achieving the goal of ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047.

In his last Independence Day speech, the prime minister had highlighted the grand style in which more than 200 G20 events, including the summit meeting, were organized across various cities. “This proves that Bharat has the capability to organize major international events and possesses unparalleled hospitality. With this established, our goal is to host the 2036 Olympics on Indian soil. We are preparing for this and making significant progress towards it,” he had said.

Though no host city has yet been named, it is widely believed that the choice is expected to be Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar in Modi’s home state of Gujarat, where the state government is already in overdrive to create massive infrastructure around India’s biggest stadium, the one lakh-plus seater Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, and in other clusters.

Apart from the state government, Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar as a potential host city will have assured strong backing and support of India’s two biggest ‘Gujarati’ business conglomerates, the Ambanis and Adanis.

During the last (10th) edition of the famous Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, Reliance Industries Limited chairman Mukesh Ambani citing Modi’s announcement for India’s bid to host the Games, had committed Reliance and Reliance Foundation’s help in preparation for the bid.

“…Reliance and Reliance Foundation will join forces with several other partners in Gujarat to improve education, sports, and skills infrastructure that will nurture the champions of tomorrow in various Olympic sports,” he was quoted as saying.

IOC President Thomas Bach, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and IOC member Nita Ambani at the opening ceremony of the October 2023 IOC session in Mumbai

His wife Nita Ambani, an IOC member and founder and chairperson of the Reliance Foundation, is already in the thick of campaigning for the success of India’s bid for hosting the 2036 Olympics. She is learnt to have been largely instrumental in getting IOC approval for hosting its October 2023 session in Mumbai.

She was witnessed taking centre stage in the session opening ceremony held at the Jio World Centre in Mumbai in the presence of Modi and IOC President Thomas Bach.

Reliance Foundation, led by her, also set up India House, the first-ever country house at the Olympics, in the vibrant Parc de la Villette. She, along with the IOA contingent, used the platform provided by the colourful pavilion, designed to showcase India’s rich heritage and Olympic ambitions, to lobby hard for hosting the 2036 world showcase in the country.

Enormity of hosting a Summer Olympics

With the number of athletes having increased dramatically, especially between the years 1976 to 1996, and the number of events having also risen substantially, for example up almost 30% from the 1992 Games Barcelona to the 2024 Games in Paris, it is no mean feat to host 329 medal events across 32 different sports disciplines, about 10,000 athletes and even more while welcoming millions of visitors.

Considering inflation and other cost overruns, by the time India potentially hosts the 2036 Summer Olympics, it would be looking at spending upwards of a staggering US $ 10 billion on the sporting extravaganza.

Rs 6,000-crore plan for Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar

The Gujarat government set up a special purpose vehicle (SPV) in July 2023 to oversee the planning and execution of Olympic-standard infrastructure in Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar.

A 6,000-crore master plan, prepared by Australian design and architecture consultants Populous, envisions building a 300-acre Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave in Ahmedabad’s Motera locality. Besides six new stadiums with a total seating capacity of over 1 lakh, the sports enclave will include the existing one lakh plus-seater Narendra Modi cricket stadium.

It has also planned a “vibrant” public space along river Sabarmati for hosting cultural events and temporary stalls, and an amphitheatre.

Planning is also under way for additional sports clusters.

Down In The Pits From Cloud Nine, That Sinking Feeling!

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From ICC T20 World Cup high to Test low, Rohit hits both extremities in 2024
Kiwis make history handing India their first ever 3-0 whitewash in a home Test Series of three or more matches in 90 years, ever since India started playing Test matches in Dec 1933
Hosts also lose their top spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) table, slipping to 58.33 percentage points behind Australia’s 62.50
Need to work hard to lift their game and morale for the 5-Test away series in Australia if they are to remain in contention for their third straight WTC final
Both Rohit and Kohli will be under pressure to perform Down Under, and so will be Chief Coach Gautam Gambhir to show results
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy begins November 22 in Perth

The Indian cricket fans were left aghast after witnessing their national heroes crash to their most embarrassing home Test Series whitewash at the hands of New Zealand in the history of Indian Test cricket.

The narrow 25-run loss in the third and final Test match in Mumbai on Sunday, after crushing defeats in Bangalore and Pune, meant that India for the first time in the history of modern cricket suffered a 3-0 whitewash (lost all matches of a series with no matches being drawn or abandoned) in a home Test series of three or more matches.

There could not have been a sweeter redemption for the Kiwis, who came to India straight from their own 2-0 whitewash in a Test series against hosts Sri Lanka. This was undoubtedly the Kiwis’ greatest ever series win away from home, hailed as such by their Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.

Acknowledging the enormity of the historic series loss, Indian captain Rohit Sharma described it as a ‘low point’ of his cricketing career, something which he admitted is going to hurt for a long time.

The 3-0 Test series loss also meant that India lost their top spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 table, slipping to 58.33 percentage points, behind new table topper Australia’s 62.50.

Border-Gavaskar Trophy looms
There is no time to lose as India embark on a highly challenging tour of Australia in just a couple of weeks. The five-match Test series for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy begins November 22 in Perth.

Chief coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma have their task cut out. The team needs to practice hard and concentrate on rectifying the mistakes identified. Most importantly, they ought to put the embarrassing loss behind them and lift their game and morale to standards they have defined over the past few years.

Having suffered two consecutive series losses at home against India, the Aussies are known to be preparing hard to extract revenge. India on their part should go into the series with a winning mindset. Losing the series is not an option if they are to remain in contention for entering their third successive WTC final. The third edition of WTC final is scheduled to be played in Lord’s, London, from June 11 to 15 next year.

Having massively underperformed in the longest format of the game in the recent past, more noticeably in the latest series against New Zealand, it is high time for top guns Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to prove on the ground that they can still provide solidity at the top of the order and inspire the highly talented younger lot to consolidate the innings.

In the three Tests against the Kiwis, Rohit has scored just 94 runs, with a highest score of 52 in the second innings of the first Test in Bengaluru. In Tests at home this season, he has managed 133 runs in 10 innings at an abysmal average of 13.30. Kohli has scored 192 runs with one fifty (innings of 70 runs) in 10 innings at a dismal average of 21.33.

This despite the hosts getting tailor-made pitches prepared apparently with the aim of making them work to their advantage.

For the records
This is the first-time ever New Zealand have won three Tests in a series, home or away, and first time ever they have won three successive away Tests

They became the fourth side to whitewash India in a series of three-plus Tests, away or at home, after England (4 times), Australia (3) and West Indies (1)

Before the Mumbai Test, India had already lost a home Test series for the first time since 2012. But the defeat in Mumbai made things go from bad to worse with the first ever home Test Series whitewash in a series of three of more matches

India have played 294 Tests at home, starting from the first home Test appearance at the Bombay Gymkhana Ground, and their 58th defeat came against New Zealand, when the visitors won the third Test match

The only other instance of India being whitewashed at home in a series comprising at least two games was against South Africa, which the Proteas won 2-0 in 2000

Cricket/sports statistician Mohandas Menon posted on his X account that India has been blanked 3-0 at home twice before by West Indies but both times the Test series were of higher number of matches – five Tests in 1958/59 and six Tests in 1983/84

He shared that most Test wickets at Wankhede Stadium by a Mumbai-born bowler have been 25 by New Zealand’s Ajaz Patel and 17 by Ravi Shastri. The 36 years old Kiwi left-arm spinner was also born in Mumbai, before his family migrated to New Zealand when he was very young

He also shared that the most Test wickets at an Indian venue by visiting bowlers have been 25 by Ajaz Patel of New Zealand (at Wankhede), 22 by Ian Botham of England (at Wankhede), and 18 by Richie Benaud of Australia (at Kolkata)

Ajaz’s fingers spin magic in birthplace Mumbai
Born in Mumbai, 36 years old Ajaz Patel appears to take naturally to the Wankhede Stadium in the city of his birth. His fingers have spun magic here. In December 2021, Ajaz had made headlines by becoming just the third bowler in Test history to take all ten wickets in a single innings. He finished with a match haul of 14 wickets for 225 runs, setting a record for the best figures by a visiting bowler in India.

His six for 57 bowling analysis in the second Indian innings on the third day of the just concluded Mumbai Test match for a match haul of 11 wickets, was, however, apparently sweeter than the Perfect 10 he achieved here three years ago since this one emerged as a winning performance for his team in a historic moment.

Another day, another Indian collapse
Chasing a paltry 147 for a consolation win on a tricky spinning wicket, the Indian batting line-up collapsed once again on the third day of the third and final Test match against New Zealand with the sole exception of wicketkeeper batsman Rishab Pant, who displayed remarkable resilience against the rampaging spin duo of Ajaz Patel and Glenn Phillips and unleashed a range of his trademark shots.

The figures shared by statistician Mohandas Menon on his X account say it all.

Highest run-getters for India in the second innings at Mumbai

64 – Rishab Pant
12 – Washington Sundar
12 – Byes
11 – Rohit Sharma