Author: sureshzmc07

PUNE: The India-Israel workforce partnership is off to a fruitful start. At least 1,800 masons, carpenters, and ceramic tiling workers, mainly ITI graduates from Maharashtra, have been recruited to work in the Middle Eastern nation.
Israel‘s ongoing drive at ITI Aundh which started on Sept 17 will conclude on Sept 25. Thousands of aspirants from across the state have come to ITI Aundh in the past 3-4 days to apply for and bag these jobs.They have a five-year contract with a monthly salary of Rs 1.32 lakh and other bonuses. All candidates undergo a practical skill test before selection.
Lokeshwar Sali, an aspirant, said he has been doing odd jobs as a mason in Pune under a contractor, but there is no guarantee of work. “I get work on some days and otherwise I have nothing. I came here after a friend told me about the drive, and I have been recruited. I will soon be leaving for Israel after the documentation process.”
A delegation of 12 Israeli officials arrived in India on Sept 16 to oversee the recruitment effort. Israel has a growing demand for skilled construction workers and the Indian workforce can get international career opportunities.
Aspirants were not too anxious about going to the strife-torn nation. Shiva Katale, a 50-year-old from Karad, who landed a job, said it was a risk going to Israel where political tensions are high but since it is a govt initiative he finds it safe.
He said, “We are assured of evacuation by govt officials. I have more than 25 years of experience in tiling. Here, I don’t get even half of the package that we have been offered. So it is a win-win situation for me.”
Vishwas Hake, 29, said the five-year contract is reassuring. “If things don’t work out then we can always come back. But I would rather work where my skills are in demand and help my family,” he said.
National Skills Development Corporation’s deputy general manager Sumit Singh said the drive represents a significant step in India’s journey as a global supplier of high-quality human resources.
“This will enhance employment opportunities in international markets, particularly in countries that value Indian expertise in labour-intensive industries,” he added.
A similar drive was conducted earlier this year in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Telangana. So far, approximately 4,800 Indian workers have gone to Israel. An additional 1,500 workers from the first cohort went to Israel on September 18, 2024, Singh said.
The corporation ensures that India’s skilling programmes align with global employment demands. Candidates are well-prepared for technical and professional challenges in Israel. Israeli employers have expanded their recruitment targets, seeking an additional 10,000 candidates in this round. The focus remains on four critical areas of expertise— framework, iron bending, plastering, and ceramic tiling.
This initiative is part of an agreement signed between India and Israel in November 2023, ITI Aundh principal Ramakant Bhavsar said.

NEW DELHI: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari recently took a swipe at his cabinet colleague Ramdas Athawale, praising his political prowess and ability to secure ministerial positions across various governments.
While addressing an event in Nagpur on Sunday, Gadkari said that while there is no guarantee of NDA government’s fourth term, Athawale will, however, become a minister anyway.
“We are not guaranteed to form the government for the fourth time. But Ramdas Athawale is guaranteed to become a minister again if any government comes,” Gadkari said.
“Ramdas Athawale’s ministerial position is sure no matter who is in the government,” he added.

Ramdas Athawale, the leader of the Republican Party of India (RPI-A), has served as a minister three times and expressed confidence in maintaining this streak if the BJP-led alliance returns to power.
During a press conference in Nagpur, Athawale discussed his party’s plans for the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections, stating that the RPI-A, a partner in the ruling Mahayuti coalition, should be allotted 10 to 12 seats. He specified that his party would contest on its own symbol and is seeking three to four seats in Vidarbha, including North Nagpur, Umred, Umarkhed in Yavatmal, and Washim.
Despite not contesting a single seat in the recent Lok Sabha election and having no directly-elected public representative, the Republican Party of India (RPI) still enjoys a certain influence within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
Athawale’s political journey has been marked by alliances with various parties. In 1990, he joined the Sharad Pawar-led state government in alliance with Congress, leading the social welfare department. However, in 2011, he parted ways with the Congress-Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) alliance and joined the NDA fold. Although his party has not seen significant growth over the past 13 years within the NDA, the alliance has helped Athawale raise his profile as a Union minister of state.

Ryan Routh accused of hiding near Donald Trump’s Florida golf course with a rifle and intent to kill the former president had written a letter months earlier describing his assassination attempt and offering a $150,000 bounty on Trump’s life, US prosecutors said on Monday.
The 58-year-old man, facing two federal gun charges, allegedly aimed a rifle through the tree line while Trump played golf at his West Palm Beach course on September 15, according to a criminal complaint.Routh has not entered a plea but is scheduled to appear for a detention hearing, where prosecutors will seek to keep him jailed until his trial.
In a court filing released ahead of the hearing, prosecutors provided details of a disturbing letter that Routh had delivered months earlier. Addressed “to the world,” the handwritten note reportedly saying, “This was an assassination attempt on Donald Trump, but I failed you. I will offer $150,000 to whomever can complete the job.”
The letter was discovered inside a box handed over by a civilian witness, which also contained ammunition, a metal pipe, and four phones. The witness had only opened the box after learning of Routh’s involvement in the alleged attack.
Prosecutors say the letter is part of a broader pattern of behavior, including Routh’s 2023 book, Ukraine’s Unwinnable War, in which he encouraged foreign nations like Iran to assassinate Trump. “I apologize. You are free to assassinate Trump as well as me for that error in judgment,” Routh reportedly wrote in his book.
Federal charges against Routh currently include possessing a gun with a scratched-off serial number and possessing a firearm illegally as a felon. Additional charges may be pending, including aggravated assault for allegedly pointing the rifle at a Secret Service agent.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, addressing the case on Tuesday, stated that the state would pursue further charges against Routh, saying, “His offense should merit life in prison.”
As Routh awaits further legal developments, the investigation into his actions continues to deepen, with authorities probing his motives and connections in the lead-up to the attempted attack.

NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu governor R N Ravi on Monday said secularism was an European concept which was not needed in India. He went on to allege “one insecure Prime Minister introduced secularism in the Constitution during emergency in order to appease some sections of people.” The Tamil Nadu governor’s observations evoked strong retort from several parties who advised him to abide by the constitutional post he was holding.
“Secularism is not a Bhartiya concept, it is an European concept, let it be there, let them be happy with it.How can India be away from Dharma? ” TN governor said at a convocation of Hindu Dharma Vidya Peetham at Thiruvattar in Kanyakumari. “A lot of frauds have been committed on people of this country, and one of them is that they have tried to give a wrong interpretation of secularism,” the governor said.
“In Europe, secularism came because there was a fight between the church and the king. They wanted to stop the fight which had been going on for hundreds of years. So they advocated separation between the Church and the King to ensure there was no interference with each other. In India, there is no need for secularism,” he added.
“At the time of independence, when the Constitution was being drafted, a discussion came up on secularism and the Constituent Assembly rejected it observing that Bharat is a dharma-centric country and there has been no conflict, similar to what was witnessed in Europe,” the governor claimed.
Citing the Constituent Assembly discussions, he said it was deliberated there that Bharat is a country of dharma and, “how can there be a conflict with dharma? How can Bharat be away from dharma? it cannot be! Hence, they said secularism was a European concept and let it be there. In India, there was no need for secularism, they said and hence, it was not included in the Constitution.
R N Ravi’s remarks evoked a strong response from ruling DMK which said that “secularism was the most needed concept in India.”
“Article 25 says that there should be a conscious freedom of religion that he doesn’t know. He should go and read the Constitution fully. 22 languages are listed in our Constitution. Hindi is a language which is spoken by a few states. The remaining states speak other languages. The problem with the BJP is that they neither know India, nor the Constitution,” said DMK spokesperson TKS Elangovan.
CPI leader D Raja deplored the governor’s remarks and said that secularism was needed to keep religion and politics separate.
“I strongly deplore the statement made by RN Ravi. What does he know about secularism? What does he know about India? He is a governor, he must abide by the Constitution. The Constitution of India defines India as secular democratic republic. Dr BR Ambedkar emphatically rejected theocratic concept. Ambedkar went to the extent of saying, if at all Hindu Rashtra becomes a fact, that will be a calamity for the nation. Secularism means keeping religion and politics separate. Don’t bring Gods for electoral purposes,” D Raja said.
This is not the first time the Tamil Nadu Governor has stoked a row with his remarks on secularism. Last year, he said that the people who want to break this country have given a distorted interpretation of secularism.
“Our Constitution is not against ‘dharma’ …it is the people who want to break this country, they have given a distorted interpretation of secularism. We have to understand the true meaning of secularism in our Constitution. Those talking about eradicating Hinduism have a hidden agenda to break this country in collaboration with hostile foreign powers. They will not succeed as Bharat has inherent strength,” the governor had said.
(With inputs from agencies)

After Israeli strikes on Hezbollah strongholds in Southern Lebanon killed 182 people on Monday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a strong statement saying “we don’t wait for threat, but get ahead of it,” AFP said.
Netanyahu addressed recent development son the northern border with Lebanon in a statement to the Israeli public on Monday, as per AFP.
Following a situation assessment at the Kirya military headquarters in Tel Aviv, Netanyahu stated: “I promised we would change the security balance, the balance of power in the north — and that is exactly what we are doing,” Netanyahu said during a security meeting, adding that Israel’s policy was to preempt threats rather than “wait” for them,” according to AFP.
Netanyahu said on Monday Israel faced “complicated days” as it stepped up strikes against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon and he called on Israelis to stay united as the campaign unfolded.
“I promised that we would change the security balance, the balance of power in the north – that is exactly what we are doing,” he said in a message issued following a situational assessment at military headquarters in Tel Aviv.
As per Lebanese health ministry, the Israeli airstrike, which targeted Hezbollah forces backed by Iran in southern Lebanon, resulted in deaths of at least 182 people, including children. Since the outbreak of the war in the Gaza strip in October 7, these attacks represent the most significant escalation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah.
Post the Israeli attacks on Lebanon, the Iranian foreign ministry issued a stern warning to Israel on Monday, cautioning of potentially severe consequences following deadly attacks on Hezbollah strongholds in Lebanon. Nasser Kanani, the ministry’s spokesman, denounced the Israeli strikes as “insane” and forewarned about “the dangerous consequences of the Zionists’ new adventure”.

Rudra Abhishek is one of the most powerful and sacred rituals in Hinduism, performed to honor Lord Shiva in his fierce form, Rudra. This ritual is known for its ability to cleanse negativity, remove obstacles, and bring blessings of health, wealth, and peace. But what makes Rudra Abhishek unique is the use of different elements, each with its own spiritual significance.
Performing Rudra Abhishek involves bathing the Shiva Linga with various elements such as milk, honey, water, ghee, and even sacred ash. Each of these elements carries its own energy and purpose, connecting devotees to different aspects of the divine.

Milk

, for instance, is one of the most commonly used offerings in Rudra Abhishek. It symbolizes purity and is believed to soothe Lord Shiva’s fiery nature, bringing calmness and peace into the life of the devotee. By offering milk, one seeks to purify their soul and invite tranquility into their life.

Honey

is another element often used, representing sweetness and harmony. Offering honey to the Shiva Linga is a way to invoke kindness and love in one’s life. It’s a symbolic request to Lord Shiva to remove bitterness and replace it with joy and compassion.

Ghee

, the clarified butter, is known for its purifying qualities. When ghee is offered during Rudra Abhishek, it is said to purify the devotee’s soul and surroundings, helping to remove obstacles and bring spiritual clarity. It also represents prosperity and the wish for a successful life path.

Water

, the simplest yet most powerful element, is a representation of life itself. Offering water during Rudra Abhishek signifies cleansing of the mind and spirit, washing away sins, and starting anew. It is also an essential element in worship, as it connects to the flow of life’s energy.
In some rituals,

sacred ash (Vibhuti)

is used to perform the Abhishek. Ash represents the cycle of creation and destruction, and its offering symbolizes surrendering ego and desires to Lord Shiva, embracing detachment and the deeper truths of life.
Each element used in Rudra Abhishek has a deeper connection to the cosmos and the individual. Performing this ritual not only brings one closer to the divine but also serves as a spiritual cleansing, aligning the devotee with the universal energies of transformation, peace, and renewal.

A little volume and length in your eyelashes can create a striking beautiful impact on your face structure. A simple stroke of mascara on your natural lashes with fine kohl and eyeliner strike can make your eyes look stunning making your eye makeup feasible and faster. It takes patience and time to keep your false lashes safe, put the glue in place and remain in agony all night to not lose your false lashes leading to embarrassment.But, with these easy-to-do home remedies every day, you can naturally see the change in length in your eyelashes, and only with a stroke of mascara you’re ready to go.
Shea butter
Step 1: Take a pea-sized amount of pure shea butter on your fingertips and gently massage it on your lashes before going to sleep.
Step 2: Look out for the formation of clumps and simply wash them off with lukewarm water.

Coconut oil
Step 1: Take 1 tablespoon of coconut oil dip a clean cotton swab into the oil and apply it along your lashes.
Step 2: Ensure the oil does not enter your eyes and the next day rinse it off with cold water.
Castor oil
Step 1: One of the most used home remedies for eyelash growth is using 1 tablespoon of castor oil over your eyelashes every day at night.
Step 2: Do not let it seep into your eyes, and wash it off the following day.
Green Tea
Step 1: Add a bag of green tea to some hot water and let it seep in for 5 minutes.
Step 2: Now, strain the liquid and allow it to cool down, apply it on your eyelashes and wash it off with cold water the next day.

Aloe Vera
Step 1: Extract some natural gel from an aloe vera leaf and blend it well making the consistency thin.
Step 2: Apply this gel with your fingertips on your lashes and wash it off the next day with cold water.

A slight change can only be noticed after being committed to the process. There are also brow and lash serums available in the market but the lipids, nourishment, and oils found in these natural products remain to be unbeatable. Also, if you observe itchiness or swelling the next day, instantly stop the process and opt for any other solution.

In the realm of fantasy literature, the integration of zodiac signs as elemental forces can create a rich tapestry of characters, cultures, and conflicts. Each sign embodies unique traits that can be reflected in the elements they control, shaping the world and its inhabitants. Here’s a closer look at how each zodiac sign can be represented as an elemental force.
Aries: Flame of Courage
Element: Fire
Aries represents the spark of initiative and passion.Characters embodying Aries are fearless leaders, often leading the charge in battles. Their fiery nature symbolizes courage, making them natural warriors who inspire those around them to act boldly.
Taurus: Stone of Resilience
Element: Earth
Taurus is the embodiment of strength and stability. Those aligned with this sign have a deep connection to the earth, serving as guardians of nature. Their resilience allows them to withstand challenges, and they often act as the backbone of their communities, providing support and nurturing growth.
Gemini: Breeze of Communication
Element: Air
Gemini characters are the epitome of versatility and intellect. They control the winds, representing communication and adaptability. Their quick wit and charm make them natural diplomats, navigating complex social landscapes and facilitating connections among diverse factions.
Cancer: Tide of Emotion
Element: Water
Cancer embodies emotional depth and intuition. Characters influenced by this sign can manipulate water, symbolizing healing and protection. They are often the caretakers of their communities, using their empathy to foster understanding and compassion, making them pivotal in times of crisis.
Leo: Blaze of Leadership
Element: Fire
Like Aries, Leo is connected to fire but embodies a different aspect: charisma and creativity. Leo characters are natural leaders, radiating warmth and confidence. They inspire loyalty and often find themselves at the center of social gatherings, using their fiery spirit to unite others.
Virgo: Whisper of Purity
Element: Earth
Virgo is associated with precision and detail. Characters influenced by Virgo have a profound connection to the earth’s natural order. They act as healers and scholars, meticulously studying the world around them and advocating for balance and harmony.
Libra: Gale of Harmony
Element: Air
Libra represents balance and beauty. Characters aligned with Libra can manipulate air to create harmony in chaotic situations. They are often peacekeepers, using their diplomatic skills to resolve conflicts and promote unity among diverse groups.
Scorpio: Abyss of Transformation
Element: Water
Scorpio embodies mystery and transformation. Characters associated with this sign can wield water’s deeper, darker aspects, symbolizing the power of change and rebirth. They often serve as catalysts for transformation, guiding others through periods of intense personal growth.
Sagittarius: Ember of Adventure
Element: Fire
Sagittarius is the spirit of exploration and freedom. Characters influenced by this sign are often wanderers, igniting a sense of adventure in themselves and others. They harness fire’s wildness to break boundaries and inspire quests for knowledge and experience.
Capricorn: Mountain of Determination
Element: Earth
Capricorn represents ambition and discipline. Characters of this sign are grounded and goal-oriented, embodying the steadfast nature of mountains. They are builders and leaders, often seeking to establish order and structure within their realms.
Aquarius: Storm of Innovation
Element: Air
Aquarius embodies originality and vision. Characters influenced by this sign can harness the power of storms, symbolizing revolutionary ideas and progressive change. They are often seen as the rebels, challenging the status quo and pushing boundaries.
Pisces: Ocean of Dreams
Element: Water
Pisces represents intuition and imagination. Characters aligned with this sign can manipulate the vastness of the ocean, symbolizing the depths of the subconscious. They are dreamers and visionaries, often providing the emotional insight that others lack.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently convened a roundtable meeting with a group of top global tech CEOs, including Google’s Sundar Pichai and Nvidia‘s Jensen Huang. During the meeting, Huang lauded Modi as “an incredible student” for his keen interest in technology and AI.
“I’ve enjoyed so many meetings with the Prime Minister. He’s such an incredible student and every time I see him, he wants to learn about technology, artificial intelligence, the potential and opportunity for India, and the impact on India, society and industry.And so I was delighted to be here to talk about it,” Huang told the media, expressing his admiration for PM Modi.

“This is India’s moment”

Artificial intelligence (AI) presents a great chance and “this is India’s moment. You have to seize the opportunity”, Nvidia chief executive officer (CEO) Jensen Huang has said after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New York.
The CEO of Nvidia, the company that specialises in AI chips and accelerated computing, noted that India is home to the world’s greatest computer scientists.
“AI really democratises computing, and this is India’s moment. You have to seize the opportunity, said Huang, adding that the company is looking forward to partnering with India on AI.
“India, as you know, is also home of some of the world’s greatest computer scientists. So this is a great opportunity. Artificial intelligence is also a new industry, a new manufacturing industry that’s very important and so I’m looking forward to partner with India in a very deep way to make that possible,” said Huang.
Huang also talked about India’s startup ecosystem
“For all of the startups. India is the home of the third largest startup economy and so this new generation of startups are all based on AI and in order to do so, you have to have AI infrastructure, just the number of partnerships we have all over India,” said Huang.
He also said that Nvidia is partnering with many companies, startups, and IITs across India.
Google CEO Pichai of Google, Adobe’s Shantanu Narayen and IBM’s Arvind Krishna were among the tech bosses to attend the roundtable at the Lotte New York Palace Hotel with Modi on September 22.