Dhanteras 2026.

Honouring wealth and wellbeing.

Dhanteras, observed on the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight of Kartik, falls on 06 Nov this year and marks the beginning of Diwali festivities. Also called Dhantrayodashi, it brings together the worship of wealth, wellbeing and auspicious beginnings.

The festival honours Lord Dhanvantari, regarded in Hindu tradition as the divine physician and associated with Ayurveda. According to the Bhagavata purana, Dhanvantari emerged from the churning of the cosmic ocean bearing a pot of amrita, the nectar of immortality.

Her worship on Dhanteras reflects the traditional understanding of health as a precious gift. Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of prosperity and Kubera, the celestial treasurer, are also worshipped in many households.

Buying gold, silver or new utensils is a familiar custom, believed to to invite good fortune into the home. Yet the day's observances extend beyond acquisition. In many regions, families light a small earthen lamp for Yama, the god of death, praying for protection against untimely death. This ritual, known as Yama Deepam, is associated in popular tradition with a tale of a young prince whose life was saved through his bride's vigilance and the light of lamps.

Rafale-M makes landing on INS Vikrant.

The Indian Navy's effort to integrate the French-made Rafale Marine (Rafale-M) was successful when the aircraft landed on INS Vikrant on its maiden attempt. The landing comes a week after the IN began trials of the Rafale-M at its Shore Based Test Facility (SBTF) at INS Hansa in Goa, which replicates a carrier's ski jump and arrester wires, to assess the modifications needed for the jet to operate from INS Vikrant.

The Rafale-Ms were designed for the French Navy's nuclear-powered Charles de aulle, which uses catapults to launch aircraft under CATOBAR (catapult-assisted take off but arrested recovery) system.

The Rafale-Ms will finally replace the IN's MiG-29Ks. 

I'd like to be called a Septolescent!

"Septolescent" is a term used to describe a person who is over 70 years old but still lives with the enthusiasm and energy of a teenager.

"Septo" refers to seven, representing 70+ while "adolescent" refers to teenagers. 

A septolescent is someone who even after turning 70, continues to live life with the enthusiasm of a teenager.

Normally, after crossing 70, some people think, "I have become old; my life is over".

But a septolescent doen't think that way. They see age as just a number and embrace family as if starting a new chapter.

All about the recently concluded Jio IPO.

Rupees 7.5 lakh cr have been collected from 1% of the Indian population.......for an IPO from the Reliance group!

This is the simple, true strength Indians possess and sure this is just the "tip of the iceberg", that I will never want to melt.

The confidence in an Indian business family, is so huge that apart from our country folk, we have American President, Secretary and so many others visiting Jamnagar, for an interaction with the Ambanis to invite them to the US.

I feel proud to even read these figures and the way the baton is being passed on to the younger generations, with enormous trust in them!

I'm sure the world is stunned at these figures of this IPO and would love to know what the US, Pakistan and Bangladesh feel about this reach and strength of Indians.

Read again - 7.5 lakh crores of rupees legally taken from over 1.3 cr of Indians.

My take

Some idiot said India is dead economy.

Why do birds have different-shaped beaks?

A bird's beak is more than just a mouth. Its shape is closely linked to what the bird eats and how it finds food. Eagles have sharp, hooked beaks for tearing flesh., while sparrows have short, strong beaks suited to cracking seeds.

Hummingbirds have long, slender beaks that help them reach nectar-deep inside flowers. Ducks have broad, flattened bills that help them filter food from water and mud.

These differences developed over generations through evolution, as birds adapted to different environments and food sources. In short, a bird's beak is a specialised tool shaped by its way of life.

16 things a school doesn’t teach you.

  1. How to sell

  2. How to think

  3. How to negotiate

  4. How to face failure

  5. How to manage time

  6. How to invest money

  7. Principles of success

  8. How to find your passion

  9. How to handle money 

10. How to make an impact

11. How to start a business 

12. The importance of travel

13. How to communicate well

14. Emotional awareness/intelligence 

15. How to read a financial statement 

16. How income tax works

My take

One must work on one’s own and gain knowledge in what one wants.

Good cause.

How the UN has helped advance education and children's rights around the world.

1. Universal declaration, 1948

    Adopted in 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights recognised education as a right,

    calling for free, compulsory elementary schooling. Article 26 still informs education policy

    and efforts to make learning accessible to every child around the world.

2. Education quality treaty

    UNESCO adopted the Convention against Discrimination in Education in 1960, obliging states to

    oppose exclusion in school access and opportunity. It remains a legal tool for challenging unequal

    treatment based on race, sex, language, social origin or other grounds.

3. Education for all at Jomtien

    In 1990, delegates at Jomtien adopted the World Declaration on Education for All, focusing on 

    basic learning needs for children, youth and adults. It helped guide reforms and later global targets, 

    including support for early learning and literacy worldwide.

4. UN literacy decade launched

    UN declared 2003-'12 the Literacy Decade to extend learning to adults and children excluded

    from school. Its emphasis on locally sustained literacy still informs efforts to keep adult educ-

    ation and marginalised learners on policy agendas worldwide.

5. SDG 4 sets education goal

    Adopted in 2015, Sustainable Development Goal 4 committed countries to inclusive, equitable, 

    quality education and lifelong learning for all. Its targets guide efforts on school access, gender

    equality, skills, learning outcomes and support for disadvantaged learners. 

Why Trump backed off the 100% tariff?

What really happened behind the curtains?

The world saw a deal

But missed the dealer.

Enter Narendra Modi

And his legendary Gujju mind.

12 Sep 2026.

New Delhi, BRICS Summit.

Putin.

Xi Jinping.

Pezeskian.

Modi.

One table.

Four leaders.

One American headache.

Trump's 100% tariff threat.

"He will pass Lindsey O. Graham

Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 

2026".

Everyone looked worried.

Modi smiled.

"Relax, gentlemen. I have a plan".

A plan he had discussed with

Jaishankar a day before.

Modi turned to Pezeskian

"Brother, tighten the Strait of

Hormuz".

Two more turns. That's enough.

Pezeskian : "But India's oil?"

Modi : "I'll manage".

Xi : I can also manage".

Putin : "And what about me?"

Modi : "Announce an oil production 

cut.

Blame sanctions.

Blame Ukrainian attacks.

Blame damaged refineries".

Putin : "And then".

Modi : "Oil prices will shoot up".

Xi leaned forward.

Pezeskian stopped blinking.

Modi continued.

"America will feel the heat.

Fuel prices will rise.

Trump's midterms are

approaching".

Putin : "So?"

Modi : "His voters will roast him.

He'll come running to you".

Silence.

Then Putin smiled.

The trap was set.

Oil supply tightened.

Markets grew nervous.

Washington felt the heat.

And within 48 hours....

Ring! Ring!

Trump calling Putin.

Trump : "Vladimir, let's make a 

deal".

Putin : "But your 100% tariff?"

Trump : "Waived! Don't worry".

"Fantastic deal! I'm a dealmaker!"

Of course, Donald.

Even the fire brigade makes deal

after someone sets the kitchen 

ablaze.

Meanwhile, poor Zelensky.

Russian attacks intensified.

Then Starlink reportedly slowed.

Zelensky called Elon Musk.

"Elon! what's happening? Your

Starlink is just buffering".

Musk : "Not me. Starshield".

Zelensky : "What the hell is that?"

Musk : "Ask Trump".

Now count the winners.

Trump got his deal.

Putin got his leverage.

Iran got its moment.

China got breathing space.

India got tariff relief.

Japan and other oil buyers?

They celebrated too.

And Zelensky?

Still waiting for internet.

This is the Gujju mind.

Not taught at Harvard.

Not found in geopolitics textbooks.

Modi speaks of Gandhi and

Budha.

But behind the scenes, he plays 

Chanakya.

A little mischief.

A little psychology.

And the chessboard changes.

Look at the world today.

Hormuz.

Bab el-Mandeb.

Houthis.

Hezbollah.

Iran.

Israel.

America.

Wars.

Sanctions.

Chaos.

Yet India keeps moving.

Petrol pumps functioning.

Households carrying on.

Growth around 7.8% to 8%.

That's the new Bharat many fail to

understand.

You may have 100 problems with 

Modi.

I even have many in my list too.

But give credit where it is due.

The man knows how to play chess

while others are fighting over dice.

And psychological warfare?

Sometimes the biggest victory

comes without firing a bullet.

The Para Asian Games @ Aichi Nagoya.

As the continental event came to a close today, the country has registered a historic haul and secured the 4th place in the overall medal tally.

More reward with lower strength

Despite 168 para-athletes for this edition, which was nearly half the contingent size that went to the Hangzhou Games in 2023, India returned with 114 medals, the breakdown of which is given below :-

          * Gold                   30

          * Silver                  35

          * Bronze                49

In the previous edition, India had sent 309 para-athletes and they finished fifth on the medal tally with 101 medals, including 29 gold, 31 silver and 51 bronze behind China, Japan and Uzbekistan.

Highest single-day haul yesterday

* Yesterday, India collected nine gold medals, their highest single-day haul in the ongoing edition, with 

   top finishes registered in archery, shooting, badminton and athletics.

* Athletics, as always, ended up being the driving force snaring 65 medals in all, 12 more than 2023.

Don't leave anything for later...

Later, the coffee gets cold.

Later, you lose interest.

Later, the day turns into

night.

Later, people grow up.

Later, people grow old.

Later, life goes by.

Later, you regret not

doing something

when you had the

chance. 

Growth of core sectors.

Production in key infrastructure industries rose to 7.9% in September, the fastest pace under the new series, official data showed yesterday.

Among segments, iron ore output rose by 18.4%, electricity by 11.4%, coal by 10.7% and refinery products by 10.3%, the data showed. Cement production rose 9.8% and steel by 4.9% in September compared with the same period last year.

However, fertilisers (-11.7%), natural gas (-4.6%) and crude oil (-1.4%) output fell during the month under review.

The core sector expanded by 3.19% in September last year and 5.9% in Aug '26, according to the government data.

My take

A good show when compared with the prevalent uncertainties, within the country and without!

Back @ The Quarterdeck.

Our day began at 4, this morning, we went through the chores and were ready by a quarter past 6. Monish, our sa'arathi came in by a half past 6 and we set off soon after. Were helped in loading the car by our caretaker.

Stopped at the Nagaraja kshetram at Randalummoodu as is our normal custom.

His younger son, Aniyan had fetched up from Saudi Arabia earlier in the morning and he, too, had dropped by to meet us and take our blessings. He should be with his folks over the next 45 days! He has got much of the family's debt cleared with his earnings and looks after his parents.

We'd shaped our course toward the Sri Parthasarathy temple at Aranmula, where Lekha wanted to do the "matha thekoing" and we'd a wonderful darshan by about 8. Had breakfast soon after.

The drive was fine and we passed Ponkunnam, Perumbavoor, Muvattupuzha vis Thrissur.

Lunch was had at the Gokula Nandana, 9 km north of Angamali.

Reached The Quarterdeck by 4 and the opening up of the house, unpacking and seeing off our sa'arathi were quickly done without delay.

It was a quiet evening when we watched our favourite serials on television.

Tailpiece.

It rained at Guruvayur around 7.

Dussehra.

Dasha Hara is a Sanskrit word which means removal of ten bad qualities within you :-

* Ahankara                                       Ego

* Amanavta                                      Cruelty

* Anyaaya                                        Injustice

* Kaama vaasana                             Lust

* Krodha                                          Anger

* Lobha                                           Greed

* Mada                                            Over Pride

* Matsara                                         Jealousy

* Moha                                            Attachment

* Swartha                                        Selfishness

Hence, also known as "Vijayadashami" signifying "Vijaya" over these ten bed qualities.

Happy Vijayadashami!

Happy Dussehra!

Forget it.....

Forget the Bucket List. That's for people who want to swim with the dolphins, climb mountains and find themselves in Nepal.

I've been to Nepal, seen a bit of the world and spent half my life wondering what the bloody hell I'm supposed to be looking for.

Turns out, I ain't trying to find myself anymore. I'm trying to find my glasses, remember why I walked into the kitchen and work out why everything hurts when I get up.

So, here's my Forget it list.

1. Impressing people I don't like

    Years of wearing the right suit, saying the right things and nodding at people talking absolute 

     bollocks.     

    Forget it.

    If you're talking bollocks, I'll probably tell you.

2. Going places because I feel obliged.

    Weddings, parties, dinners with people I barely know.

    Forget it.

    I've got a sofa, a television and a cat who thinks I'm an employee.

3. Understanding modern technology

    Apparently my fridge connects to the internet. Why? Is it lonely? Does it want to meet other

    fridges?

   Forget it.

   Just keep the milk cold.

4. Worrying what people think.

    At 20, I wanted everyone to like me.

    At 40, I wanted everyone to respect me.

    At 60, I've realised half of them weren't thinking about me anyway.

    Forget it.

    That's 40 years of unnecessary administration.

5. Saving things for special occasions.

    The expensive whisky. The good shoes. The nice plates.

    Forget it.

    What's the special occasion? My funeral?

6. Winning every argument.

    Once I'd spend hours proving someone. Now, if someone tells me the Earth is flat, which side

    Australia is on.

    Forget it.

    Life is too short to argue with idiots.

7. Acting my age.

    Apparently, I'm supposed to enjoy gardening, sensible shoes and discussing cholesterol.

   Forget it.

   I still laugh at inappropriate jokes and behave like a teenager.

   Only difference is, now I need two days to recover.

8. Waiting until retirement.

    Work hard. Save money, enjoy life when you retire.

    But nobody guarantees you'll get there. Or that your knees will still work.

    Forget it.

    I'm enjoying mine now.

A tryst with the goddess.

Our day began at 4 AM thanks to our religious foray this morning. Went through our chores, lit up the puja room lamp, recited my prayers, bath and were ready by a quarter past 6. However, Monish, our sa'arthi fetched up by 7; he'd washed down the car with four buckets of water and we set off on our journey.

Picked up Lekha's sister, Letha from her home and resumed our journey.

Reached the Kattil Mekkanath temple at the coast off Karunagappally. Despite the fact that today was "pooja veyppu", the crowd was much less and manageable. Had a quick bite of breakfast of dosas, sambar washed down with a good cup of coffee.

Had a very good 'darshan' of the Goddess and we were on our return trip soon after.

Reached Kottarakkara, picked up our lunch and were at home by 1. 

Lunch, watched television for a while followed by siesta.

The evening chores and did Lekha's monthly 'aarathi' with the silver coin.

Tomorrow morning, we shall be off to toothy Mallan's clinic at Muhamma to fix my right dental bridge and for Lekha's review.

On completion, we shall return to Raj Nivas and proceed to Guruvayur on Wednesday morning.

Take time to think....

Take time to think...

it is the source of power..

Take time to read....

it is the foundation of wisdom...

Take time to play....

it is the secret of staying young...

Take time to be quiet...

it is the opportunity to see God...

Take time to be aware....

it is the opportunity to help others...

Take time to love and be loved...

it is God's greatest gift...

Take time to laugh...

it is the music of the soul...

Take time to be friendly...

it is the road to happiness....

Take time dream....

it is what the future is made of...

Take time to pray....

it is the greatest power on earth...

At Raj Nivas.

Our day had begun at 4, this morning. We went through our chores and were ready by a quarter past 6. Earlier, our chauffeur, Monish had arrived by a quarter past 4 from Kottarakkara. He came by a KSRTC bus.

We kicked off at a quarter past 6, had a darshan of 'Thiruvambadi Krishnan' - Lekha had always been wanting to visit the temple after I'd told her about my morning visits to the temple during her surgery. We pulled it off today, phew!

We'd breakfast at the Aryaas Hotel, after the turn to the airport, at around a quarter to 9 and reached Satish Bhat's clinic by a quarter past 10. He was very happy with my overall medical condition with HBA1C hovering at 5.4! After Lekha's and my interaction with him, we set off for Shenoy Care. 

The formalities of registration, tests, meeting with Dr Aswathy by a half past 12 but had to wait till a half past 3 to meet Dr Padmanabha Shenoy. He, too, was happy with Lekha's medical condition and has reduced the HQCS regime.

We left for Raj Nivas, soon after and reached home by 8 PM. Expressed my unhappiness with the tall, wild grass at the courtyard; Monish left soon after.

The television did not come on stream for the evening.

Hit the sack at our usual time of 11. Nice to be back at home!

India joins international fishing pact.

India will join the Southern Indian Ocean Fisheries Agreement (SIOFA), gaining a greater role in managing high-seas resources and opening fishing opportunities for Indian vessels in the southern Indian Ocean while adhering to international regulations.

Deep water advantage

India will be upgraded from non-contracting party to contracting party under Southern Indian Ocean Fisheries Agreement.

 

India's share in global economy 8%

Indian vessels to fish for 

   * Squids

   * Toothfish

   * Alfonsino

   * Other non-migratory fish

India will have greater access to

   * Scientific data

   * Research programs

   * Stock assessments

Our fishing sector

2nd largest fish-producing country in the world

India's fish production in 2024-'25 195 lakh tons

30 million livelihoods supported by the fishing sector

Rs.60,523 cr is the amount India earned in fishery product exports in 2023-'24

120 countries consume fish exports from India

Exploration : 2036.

Thiruvananthapuram-based space-tech firm HEX20 is all set to hand over its satellite EMA Probe to the UAE Space Agency this month. The satellite, developed in the firm's facility at UAE's Masdar city, will explore asteroid 269 Justitia by 2036.

Developed to meet the requirements of the UAE Space Agency, the satellite took over two years to build. HEX20 was selected by the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) and the UAE Space Agency in Nov 2024, becoming the first private Indian company to be on board for a deep-space mission by the Gulf nation.

After the satellite is taken over by the UAE, it will be sent to the US for integration with a larger spacecraft. After testing, the integrated unit will be launched through Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) by 2028. It is scheduled to travel nearly five billion kilometres to reach the asteroid belt. 

Along the way, it will fly past six asteroids before reaching its final target, 269 Justitia. Once it enters orbit around around the asteroid, the probe developed by HEX20 will separate and descend autonomously and descend toward the surface, capturing images and transmitting them for scientific study. It will have a hard landing!

Justitia's unusual reddish target has always drawn scientific interest. Studying its surface could provide clues about organic material and the distribution of water and other volatile substances during the formation of the Solar System.  

Inflation.

Retail inflation rises to 5.54% in September on high onion price 

Retail inflation rose sharply on the back of high onion price and other food prices, government data showed.

Just within the RBI's tolerance band

The consumer price index (CPI) based headline inflation was 4.83% in August. The latest figure is just within the RBI's tolerance band of 6%. Food inflation rose to 7.74% from 5.97% the previous month. The top items with high inflation were onion (108.09%), silver jewellery (87.8%) and ginger (62.85%).

Rural inflation crosses 6%

* The top five states with high inflation were Tamilnadu, Orissa, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana and Andhra

   Pradesh. The figures for rural and urban areas were 6.08% and 4.88%, respectively.

* Commenting on the data, CRISIL, said food inflation is likely to remain firm as weak rainfall weighs 

   on agri output.

5.2% is the projected retail inflation for 2026-'27. 

Today's news headlines that amused me.

 1. The Kerala Assembly has passed a resolution asking for the resignation of the CEC.

     Both the UDF and the LDF voted for it.

     Now see the flipside :-

     * The CEC is a constitutional authority

     * Doesn't come under the purview of the state Assemblies.

     So, why was the tamasha resorted to? CM VD Satheesan, is this the way you show your loyalty to

     your party leader?

 2. RaGa has announced that the protests will continue on the streets of New Delhi till the CEC,

     the CJI, the PM and the HM are removed.

     He has finally uttered what the US 'deep state' wants him to do. They're funding him and his cohorts

     liberally.

     Is this the manner in which a responsible Leader of Opposition behaves?

 3. Energy truce between Russia and Ukraine announced by US President Trump. 

     Now see the related activities .

     He has announced that Ukraine's President Zelensky must go; to be replaced by someone else.

     Zelensky has suggested to the US to ask Putin for a two-month ceasefire to carry out elections!

My take

The Media doesn't know as to what they're telling us!

 

 

  

The nine forms of Goddess Durga.

Sharadiya Navratri begins today with nine nights of worship devoted to the nine manifestations of Goddess Durga, known as the Navadurga.

Day 1. Shailaputri

The daughter of the mountain king Himavan and a manifestation of Sati, Shailaputri represents strength, stability and auspicious beginnings.

Day 2. Brahmacharini

The ascetic form of the Goddess embodies tapas, devotion, perseverance and steadfastness on the spiritual 

path.

Day 3. Chandraghanta

Wearing a crescent moon on her forehead, Chandraghanta represents courage, protection, and the power to overcome adversity.

Day 4. Kushmanda

Associated with the cosmic egg, Kushmanda embodies the creative energy of the universe and the radiance that sustains life.

Day 5. Skandamata

The mother of Skanda, or Karthikeya, Skandamata represents nurturing, compassion and the protective power of motherhood.

Day 6. Katyayani

The warrior form of the Goddess symbolises courage and the fierce power of shakti to destroy evil.

Day 7. Kalaratri

Dark and formidable, Kalaratri represents the Goddess's power to destroy fear, ignorance and destructive forces.

Day 8. Mahagauri

Radiant and serene, Mahagauri symbolises purity, peace and spiritual purification.

Day 9. Siddhidatri

This form is the bestower of siddhis or spiritual attainments, representing the culmination of the Navaratri journey.

A quiet day!

It was indeed a quiet Saturday. There were heavy rains, for about an hour, in the evening at 1900 hrs! 

Respect every moment.

1. The sound of an ambulance is just noise......until it stops at your door.

2. Sorry is just a word......until it comes from a doctor.

3. Funeral food tastes normal......until it's cooked in your own house.

4. A hospital is just a building.......until someone you love is inside it.

5. Parents seem permanent.......until age starts catching up with them.

6. Life looks simple.......until it decides to teach you lessons.

Because nothing changes faster than the meaning of things when life makes them personal.

Wake up call for all Indians!

Is a full-scale Regime Change operation under way in India?

* PM Modi's X account allegedly shadow-banned and

   reach throttled.

* Elon Musk publicly vibing with Rahul Gandhi over 

   Starlink and targeting Indian industry.

* CJP and foreign funded handles getting sudden Algorithmic

   amplification.

* FIIs relentlessly dumping Indian equities.

* External geopolitical squeeze via West Asia energy fallout.

* Crores pumped in via Western influence networks and NGOs.

* Trump administration strikes Indian IT : TCS, Infosys, Wipro,

   HCL and Cognizant suspended from US PERM (Green Card)

   program.

Time to stay united for all Indians!

My take

And the FCRA bill is coming up for discussions on 12 Oct at the JPC

constituted for it.

Military-grade underwater ROV for the Indian Navy!

Underwater robotics is becoming increasingly critical across Indian Navy's operations, maritime security, underwater infrastructure protection, port and harbour security, search and recovery, inspection and maritime domain awareness. The indigenous development and deployment of TROUT supports the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India, strengthening strategic autonomy.

EyeROV Trout, is the underwater remotely operated vehicle. 

In a country-first milestone, Keralam-based marine robotics and AI deep-tech company EyeROV has developed and delivered two TROUTs - underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) systems for the Indian Navy.

TROUT has also completed type testing, verifying that the product design platforms to specifications under defined test conditions.

My take

Simply fantastic!

What the hell is happening?

There has been protests (?) on the streets of New Delhi for the past few days with the narrative, "Gyanesh Kumar, the CEC must resign".  

Currently, the visible trouble makers are the Congress and the CJP, with a few parties of the entire opposition staying behind and offering moral support because, deep within their hearts, each one of the parties knows that the narrative is false; has no substance and is a RaGa fabricated falsehood! You're trying to cover the bitter truth that you can't win an election because of your lacklustre leadership! And not to forget the wicked and sick Arvind Kejriwal! Heard a venomous audio clip of his saying that this time he'll beat Modi to pulp......we all know as to what he did as the chief minister of Delhi.

Moreover, these guys on the streets are being funded by the Oslo Peace Foundation and Sorros' funding agency, it's said. The plot has been hatched eons ago with the sole aim of pulling down PM Narendra Modi and the elected government by hook or by crook. 

What these protesting guys seem to forget is that they can only survive if India is fine and strong. Addressing them directly - RaGa, Abhijit Dipke, Saurav Das and the other anti-national guys - you must stand for a united nation. Don't hitch your bandwagon with the guys that are funding you from outside; you'll pay a heavy price and mind you even your so-called mentors have a poor opinion of you because you've the gumption to tear apart your motherland for your narrow gains and play up to their fallacies!

Nothing has happened, hold your horses for a moment, ponder about the imponderables/uncertainties in the aftermath of your destructive actions if they were to fructify.

Heard another irresponsible guy, RaGa's sidekick, KC Venugopal saying that Delhi will burn. Doesn't it give him nightmares if such a thing were to really happen? He's the same guy who has kept an eye on Kerala CM's chair and is putting all sorts of obstacles to prevent the present incumbent, VD Satheesan, from functioning efficiently.

The weaklings and the losers are trying to make a mark - Yogendra Yadav, are you listening?

The Indian Express and the Malayala Manorama have gone overboard in their one-sided coverage of the protests. Talk of the press being neutral and being exemplary in their coverage!

Must remind you that the nation and the people will never forgive you, ever!

My take

My prayers for the well being of India and her bright future!

Coffee trails to village walks, Keralam proposes...

New experience

Districts where Kerala Tourism has introduced experimental trails :-

   * Thiruvananthapuram

   * Kollam

   * Alappuzha

   * Idukki

   * Ernakulam

   * Malappuram

   * Kozhikode

   * Kasaragod

What does it offer?

   * Agriculture : Coffee and Tea plantation walks, farming activities and fruit cultivation.

   * Food and culture : Traditional cuisine, sweet-making, local performing arts, customs and festivals.

   * Community life : Village tours, indigenous lifestyles and engagement with local occupations.

   * Traditional crafts : Pottery making, handloom, sari weaving and traditional handicrafts.

   * Nature and eco-experiences : Guided nature walks, biodiversity tracking, birdwatching and forest 

      trails.

   * Water experiences : Kayaking, country boat rides and canal navigation across backwaters.

   * Accommodations : Farm stays, rural homestays and immersive lodging.

Keralam's tourism is taking shape imaginatively!

The Math puns.

  1. Why was the fraction apprehensive about marrying the decimal?

      Because she would have to convert.

  2. Why do plants avoid Maths?

      It gives them square roots.

  3. Why did the student get upset when his teacher called him average?

      It was a mean thing to say.

  4. Why was the math book depressed?

      It had a lot of problems.

  5. Why is the obtuse triangle always so frustrated?

      Because it is never right.

  6. Why can you never trust a maths teacher holding graph paper?

      She must be plotting something.

  7. Why was the equal sign so humble?

      Because she knew she wasn't greater than or less than anyone else.

  8. Did you hear the one about the statistician?

      Probably.

  9. What do you call students who love maths?

      Algebros.

10. I'll do algebra, I'll do trig. I'll even do statistics.

      But graphing is where I draw the line!

11. Why are parallel lines so tragic if they have so much in common?

      It's a shame they'll never meet.

12. How do you stay warm in any room?

      Just huddle in the corner, where it's always 90 degrees.

13. Why is six afraid of seven?

      Because seven eight ("ate") nine!

14. Why does nobody talk to a circle?

      Because there is no point.

The wisdom of enough.

We live in a culture that rarely lets us feel we have enough. There is always something more to acquire, achieve or experience - a better phone, a bigger home, another promotion, more recognition. Even after getting what he wanted, the satisfaction can be brief before the mind begins reaching for the next thing.

Indian wisdom offers a different approach through santosha, or contentment in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. It is one of the five niyamas or personal observances. The Yoga Sutra 2.42 says : santosad anuttamah sukha-labhah - from contentment comes unsurpassed happiness.

The Bhagvad Gita points to a deeper meaning. Describing one who is established in the Self, Krishna speaks of being atmani eva cha santustah - satisfied in the Self (3.17). Contentment, therefore, is not simply being pleased with what we possess. It is learning not to make our inner wellbeing dependent on acquiring more.

This does not mean abandoning ambition. We can strive, improve and pursue meaningful goals while remaining inwardly at ease with the present. So, the next time you catch yourself thinking, "I'll be happy when I have this", pause. Ask : "What if my happiness does not have to wait?"

28 strategic Ladakh sites on official map.

The centre, yesterday, formally identified 28 strategic places and geographical features in Ladakh on the official map of India.

LAC friction points among sites identified

The government said in a statement that formally identifying them on the Survey map of Ladakh will help streamline official cartography, facilitate accurate recognition and promote greater public awareness. Gogra and Hot Spring, key friction points during the 2020 India-China military stand off, are among the strategic locations identified on the map.

Comes after similar action in Arunachal

* The list includes :-

   - Alisha Giri

   - Brangsa

   - Chapchingal Pass

   - Kanishka Peak

   - Karun Pir Mountain

   - Kuksei

   - Martand Giri

   - Parpik Glacier

   - Skamri Glacier

   - Shachmirik Pass

   - Shkorga Valley and

   - Zorawar Peak. 

* It comes nearly two months after the government identified a total of 27 places and features located 

   in Arunachal Pradesh.

10 peaks and three mountains among the 28 places/features identified.

Viva Captain Smit Machchhar!

                      Keralam pays its respectful salute to Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar

                      for his extraordinary courage and resilience. The world will, forever reme-

                      mber his bravery in protecting the lives of passengers aboard Flydubai flig-

                      ht FZ1073. Despite sustaining injuries in a grave and challenging situation

                      Captain Machchhar displayed remarkable valour, composure and unwave-

                      ring devotion to duty. Our thoughts and prayers are with Captain Machch-

                      har for a swift and full recovery.

                                                                                          @ VD Satheesan, Chief Minister

16 Mahajanapadas (Capitals) of Ancient India.

  1. Gandhara

      Taxila

  2. Kamboja

      Rajapura

  3. Surasena

      Mathura

  4. Matsya

      Viratnagara

  5. Vatsa

      Kaushambi

  6. Avanti

      North : Ujjain

      South : Mahishmati

  7. Chedi (or Chetiya)

      Shuktimati

  8. Asmaka

      Potana/Potali

  9. Magadha

      Rajagriha (Pataliputra)

10. Kashi

      Varanasi

11. Anga

     Champa

12. Vajji

      Vaishali

13. Malla

      Kushinagar and Pava

14. Kosala

      Northern : Shravasti

      Southern : Kushavati

15. Panchala

      Northern : Ahichhatra

      Southern : Kampilya

16. Kuru

      Indraprastha

      

    

    

Student suicides.

Report on student suicides by 31 Oct

 

* Findings of the Supreme Court-appointed National Task Force examining student suicides due by

   31 Oct.

* The task force was constituted by Supreme Court in March last year to address rising cases of

   student suicides and examine mental health.

15% students in colleges and varsities face acute distress

The nationwide survey by SC-appointed task force also found that 9% students reported suicidal 

thoughts, in the last six months.

Social discrimination rampant

The panel had earlier this year submitted an interim report in which it found students in colleges had to deal with "deep-rooted social discrimination, rampant sexual harassment in medical and engineering colleges; gender discrimination, hostel curfews and moral policing; caste identification by NEET-UG and JEE ranks and caste-based humiliation". 

Why India was called 'Sone ki chidiya"

India used to be known as the kingdom of abundance or "Sone ki chidiya'. The reasons are reiterated below :-

1. Abundance of gold and precious metals

   * India had rich sources of gold, silver and other precious metals.

   * Foreign travellers wrote about  India's vast wealth and glittering markets.

   * Indian goods often attracted gold and silver from abroad.

2. Spice trade hub

   * India produced valuable spices like pepper, , cardamom, cinnamon, cloves and more.

   * Spices were in high demand in West Asia, Europe and beyond.

   * The spice trade brought enormous wealth to Indian kingdoms and ports.

3. Major maritime trade and network

   * Indian merchants traded across the Indian Ocean with West Asia, Africa, Southeast Asia

      and China.

   * Indian ports like Muziris, Barygaza (Bharuch), Kaveripattinam and Calicut were global

      trade centres.

   * Maritime trade brought immense wealth and cultural exchange.

4. Diamonds and precious gemstones

   * India was famous for its diamonds, including the Golconda diamonds.

   * Also known for rubies, sapphires, emeralds and other gemstones.

   * Indian gemstones were highly sought after in the global markets.

5. Exports more than imports

   * India exported high-value goods like textiles, spices, gems, steel and indigo.

   * Many foreign traders, including the Romans, Arab merchants and later Europeans, brought

      gold and silver to pay for Indian goods.

   * This constant inflow of wealth strengthened India's economy.

6. World-famous Indian textiles

   * Indian cotton, muslin, silk and fine textiles were highly valued worldwide

   * Textiles from Bengal, Gujarat, Coromandel and other regions dominated global markets.

   * European traders came to India mainly to buy textiles.

7. Advanced metallurgy and steel

   * India produced high-quality iron and steel, including wootz steel, famous worldwide.

   * Indian steel was prized for its strength and quality (even used in making Damascus steel).

   * Advanced metal working techniques gave India a global reputation.

8. Rich agriculture and natural resources

   * Fertile plains and diverse climates allowed large-scale agriculture.

   * Crops like rice, wheat, sugarcane, indigo and others created substantial surplus.

   * Forests provided timber, elephants, spices and other valuable resources.

9. Powerful kingdoms and royal treasuries

  

   * Empires like the Mauryas, Guptas, Cholas, and other regional kingdoms accumulated enormous

      wealth.

   * Royal treasuries were filled with gold, jewels, elephants and luxury goods.

   * Foreign accounts describe the grandeur and wealth of Indian courts.

10. A global centre of culture and knowledge

   * India attracted scholars, travellers and traders from around the world.

   * Renowned for its education centres, science, philosophy, art and spiritual traditions.

   * Its overall prosperity, stability and cultural influence added to its legendary wealth.

    

  

 

Boeing detects software issues.

Software issues are plaguing some of Boeing's 737 Max planes. The glitch could result in disengagement of the automated flight guidance system after a missed landing approach.

96 aircraft operated by Indian carriers.

   

   * Air India Express and Akasa Air together operate 96 Boeing 737 Max aircraft. Neither has confirmed

      any issues with their fleet.

   * Boeing's 737 Max aircraft have faced repeated grounding in the past over safety issues. A malfunct-

      ioning software was blamed for two major crashes in 2018 and 2019 that killed more than 300 people.

2,400 737 Max planes delivered by Boeing to customers worldwide.

Empathy in action.

Omoiyari - The art of consideration.

 

Kindness doesn't always announce itself. Sometimes, it is noticing that someone is tired and giving them space, remembering a friend dislikes something without being reminded or helping before a request is made. This quiet attentiveness is captured by the Japanese concept of omoiyari.

The practice conveys empathy, consideration and sensitivity to another person's circumstances. It involves imagining what someone may be feeling or needing and responding with care, without drawing attention to the gesture. In Japanese social life, omoiyari is associated with consideration for others and maintaining harmonious relationships.

Its value extends beyond etiquette. At home, it may mean recognising when a family member needs encouragement rather than advice. At work, it could mean sharing information a colleague will need before they have to ask. With an elderly person, it might be offering assistance while still showing them the dignity of deciding whether they want it.

Omoiyari is not mind reading nor does it mean deciding what is best for someone. It begins with attentiveness but leaves room for the other's wishes. In a world that often rewards speaking first, omoiyari offers another discipline : pause, notice, imagine - and then respond with consideration.

Can add years to your life.

  1. Never take medicines with cold water.

      It slows absorption.

  2. Hydrate more in the morning.

      Ease up at night.

  3. Don't lie down after meals.

      Walk a little instead.

  4. Avoid calls below 10% battery.

      Radiation spikes.

  5. Say no to tea/coffee right after eating.

      It blocks nutrients.

  6. Stop endless scrolling in the dark.

      Your eyes will hurt you.

  7. Don't chug water during meals.

      Sip slowly.

  8. Eat fruits on empty stomach.

      Better absorption.

  9. Avoid heavy meals after 5 PM.

      Your gut needs rest too.

10. Sleep between 10 PM and 4 AM.

      That's your body's repair window.

11. Take calls on your left ear.

      It's safer for your brain.

12. Breakfast = Fuel.

      Don't skip it.

13. Catch 30 minutes of sunlight daily.

      Your natural Vitamin D.

14. Stretch every hour if you sit too long.

      Relaxes the muscles.

15. Keep your phone away from your pillow.

      Sleep safer. 

16. Never reuse cooking oil.

      It turns toxic.

    

India's Russian Oil imports

Hold at 1-8 million barrels per day

India's Russian crude oil imports held at 1.8 mn bpd in September as stronger Chinese buying curbed flows but West Asian suppliers filled the gap.

Lost volumes replenished by gulf nations

India imported 2.82 mn bpd of Russian crude oil in July, which slipped to 2.08 mn bpd in August, according to global commodities data and analytics firm Kpler. Iraq and Saudi made up for the drop in Russian volumes. Iraq supplied 505 bpd of crude this month, up from 163,000 bpd in August. Saudi volumes rose to 576,000 bpd in September from 347,000 bpd last month.

Giving up Russian crude will be pricey

The outlook of Russian supplies could become more complicated if the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026 results in tougher restrictions on countries continuing to buy Russian oil.

The lead analyst at Kpler said India can technically replace Russian crude, although the shift would come at a higher cost.

2022 is when India became an important buyer of Russian crude.

Eight years of Ayushman Bharat

Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY has transformed healthcare from a financial worry into a stronger safety net. With cashless hospitalisation and health cover of up to Rs.5 lakh per family every year, the scheme designed to protect families from the burden of exorbitant medical expenses.

And the impact adds up, literally every second.

* Rs.8,100 in hospital bills covered every second

* Rs.4.9 lakh saved every minute

* Rs.2.9 crore every hour

* Rs.70 crore

Behind every number is a family that could focus on recovery instead of worrying about how to pay the hospital bill. That is the scale of change when healthcare is treated as a priority and technology, public infrastructure and policy come together.

One clear vision : a healthier, more secure India.

Habits of happy people!

1. They don't show off

2. They talk less

3. They learn daily

4. They ignore nonsense

5. They help the less fortunate

6. They laugh more

My take

You can now appreciate as to how happy you are! Or are you happy at all?

What you must tell your daughter/sister.

It's important to tell your daughter/sister these 9 things :-

1. Don't stay overnight - at anyone's house.

2. Don't ride in a car - with someone you don't know well.

3. If you leave your drink - don't drink it again.

4. When eating out alone, add one more chopstick/utensil - It's a little trick for protection.

5. Don't accept gifts carelessly - from men carelessly.

6. Not everyone who seems weak - needs your help. 

7. If your friend is involved with a bad guy - don't join his circle.

8. Never let anyone pressure you into something - if it feels wrong, say no and leave.

9. Always tell someone you trust where you are - especially when meeting someone new or going

    somewhere unfamiliar.

The art of agreeing to disagree.

Disagreements are part of everyday life. Keeping things focused on the issue can stop a difference of opinion from becoming personal.

The next time you disagree with someone, take a deep breath and ask yourself the following questions :-

   (a) Stay relevant. Am I discussing the issue or attacking or defending a person?

   (b) Listen. Can I understand the other person's point even if I don't agree with it?

   (c) Respond. Can I say "I see it differently because...." rather than criticising the person?

   (d) Step back. Would returning to the conversation later help?

   (e) Repair. If someone was hurt does that also need to be addressed? 

Sisu : The courage to carry on.

Some things take time. A difficult project, a career setback on a long period of uncertainty cannot always be fixed by staying positive. The Finnish idea of sisu speaks to the strength needed to keep going when motivation runs out and the situation remains difficult.

There is no exact English equivalent  for sisu. It is often described as a blend of courage, perseverance and determination and has become closely associated with Finnish identity. But sisu is not about pretending that hardship does not hurt. It is about finding enough resolve to take the next step anyway.

This can be useful in everyday life. A daunting task becomes less intimidating when attention shifts from the final result to what can be done today. A setback need not be the end of an effort - sometimes it simply calls for patience.

Sisu does not mean pushing endlessly, either. Resting, asking for help or changing course may be wiser than stubbornly carrying on. Its real strength lies in knowing what is worth persisting with.

In a culture drawn to quick results, sisu reminds us that some things are achieved simply by refusing to give up on what matters. 

Himalayan warming threatens India's economy.

What's at stake?

20%              Share of India's GDP underpinned by the Himalayas

21.5%           Estimated Himalayan-linked economic activity

                      64.8 lakh crore of India's FY24 GDP

18% share   of India's land occupied by the Himalayan region

35% share   of India's disasters occurring in the Himalayan region

0.1%            Share of the estimated 40,000 Himalayan glaciers 

                     currently monitored; only 16-17 are in India

40%             of Indians - Water security underpinned by Himalayan

                     glaciers, springsheds and forests

3mn              + Springs - Around half have dried up or become 

                      seasonal in the Indian Himalayas

75%              Growth in built-up area across the Hindu Kush 

                      Himalaya between 2000 and 2020, 1.7 times

                      population growth

400 mn         India Himalayan region recorded 400 million+ visits

                      in 2025, roughly eight times its resident population  

 

Queer cures.

IMA steps in to put a lid on 'conversion therapy'.

Coming out.....Calling out.

 

 (a) 45.4% of surveyed LGBTQIA+ individuals in Keralam have faced conversion attempts (Dr Sreya

       Mariyam Salim study)

 (b) Almost a third of conversion procedures were administered or endorsed by licensed medical

       professionals

 (c) Conversion therapy centres actively market pseudo-scientific "cures" to panicked parents

 (d) Modalities include heavy psychotropic drug overdoses, spiritual rituals and barbaric electroshock

       procedures

 (e) Parents force gay men, transgender people or women refusing arranged marriages into clinics to

      avoid social stigma

 (f) IMA Keralam has condemned the practice as unscientific and pledged to penalise complicit

      doctors

The IMA has firmly asserted that sexual orientation is not an illness and urges families to choose understanding over coercion, the medical fraternity is finally acting to clean its own ranks.

Courtesy. The NIE of 18 Sep 

Control your 6 Ms.

1. Mouth

    Speak with care. Words can heal or hurt. 

    Choose kindness and truth.

2. Money

    Spend wisely. Don't spend more than you need.

    Value what you have.

3. Mood

    Don't let temporary emotions ruin permanent

    relationships. Stay calm and balanced.

4. Mind

    Protect your thoughts. They shape your reality.

    Focus on what is true, kind and useful.

5. Manners

    Respect costs nothing but means everything.

    Treat everyone with humility.

6. Momentum

    Stay consistent. Small positive actions lead

    to a better life over time.

Unprofessional manoeuvre!

India summoned Pakistan's top diplomatic representative in New Delhi after a Pakistani Naval vessel collided with INS Trishul in the North Arabian Sea, following an "unprofessional and unsafe" manoeuvre.

The collision took place near Gwadar, where two larger Indian naval vessels were monitoring the Pakistani naval exercise. During the operations, a smaller Pakistani naval ship, PNS Hunain, approached  the Indian vessels at high speed and attempted to ram them.

My take

These clumsy, bloody Pakis! 

The Delhi Declaration.

BRICS 2026 adopts landmark Delhi Declaration. 

India bridges Iran-UAE differences on West Asia conflict after marathon negotiations till 4 AM; declaration calls for restraint while not assigning responsibility.

The key points

1. New Delhi Declaration condemns unilateral tariffs, calls carbon border adjustment mechanisms                  protectionist, demands fairer global trade rules.

2. Condemns Pahalgam terror attack, calls for zero tolerance on cross-border terrorism.

3. Call for immediate restoration of fully-functioning WTO dispute settlement system.

4. Bloc-wide grain trading platform and four new farmer-focused initiatives covering seeds, agro-

    inputs, agro-ecology and digital agriculture agriculture endorsed.

5. Declaration urges the developed world to provide finance for biodiversity conservation.

6. Resolves to remain committed to aims of Paris Agreement.

The 81st Grandhasala Dinam..

Dateline 14 Sep

81 years ago, on this date, PN Panicker had set up the Travancore Grandhasala Sangham at a glittering function in Ambalappuzha with 47 libraries. More than 2,000 people had participated in the conference, with the then diwan of Travancore, Sir CP Ramaswamy Iyer, inaugurating it.

Travancore Grandhasala Sangham became the Thiru-Kochi Grandhasala Sangham in 1949 on the merger of the princely states of Travancore and Kochi  and went on to become the Kerala Grandhasala Sangham in 1956 on the formation of the state of Keralam.

PN Panicker, along with his dedicated brand of library workers, set up a network of 5,280 libraries all over the state by 1970 when the Sangham was celebrating its silver jubilee. And it was a thriving people's movement.

This was made possible only because of the young government primary school teacher's vision of setting up a library in every village of his state.

He'd given the Malayalees the powerful slogan of "Vaayichu valaruka, Chinthichu vivekanm neduka".

Today we celebrate is as the "Library Day" with a national conference at the Kanakakkunnu Palace, Thiruvananthapuram from 1000 to 1700 hrs. The deliberations shall be on "Knowledge Centres enhancing community living".

Tailpiece.

Got the Thiruvananthapuram-Guruvayur Intercity Express train and reached The Quarterdeck at 1 AM.

At Thiruvananthapuram.

Got up at my usual time, sent the messages, partially opened up the house, lit up the puja room lamp and switched on the hymns on the home theatre. Recited my prayers while walking within the house.

Bath and offered ‘Bali tharpanam’ for Amma; today’s her 10th Remembrance Day. It was done on our courtyard.

Car, driven by Sharif, came at a quarter past 8 and we left for railway station soon after. Earlier, Paulson had confirmed my booking on the Vande Bharat.

Left Thrissur 20’ late. Lunch on board. An I eventful journey. Reached Thiruvananthapuram by 3, an hour’s wait in the a/c waiting room. Maman came around 4 and we’d gone to the Foundation after a hot cup of tea and a vada.

Dinner, around 10, outside, served to us by Amalia from Dimapur, Nagaland.

Pipe down at 11.

BRICS 2026.

Happenings

1. Builds momentum for local currencies

2. Bilateral agendas on the side lines dominated the meet

3. Russia seeks fruits, pharma to plug trade deficit

4. Push for opening domestic markets, partnerships

5. India for unified digital payments among members

6. India's military engages with all three Quad partners :-

    * US and India      -     Yudh Abhyas

    * Japan and India  -      In Jodhpur

    * Navy Chief is currently in Australia

7. A lot has changed in India-China relationship since Xi Jin Ping last

    visited New Delhi in 2019, including border hostility. With the BRICS

    visit, the neighbours seek rediscovery through trade. 

India AI Impact Summit 2026.

Nandan Nikaleni thanked PM Narendra Modi on a fantastic summit. 

He met the PM  on 08 Jan '26 and had talked about applying AI to farmers. The PM talked about applying AI to farmers, he said, "Why can't we apply it to cows and cattle? Because if the cow is sick, it can't tell you that it's sick, it can't tell you that it is sick. How can you solve this problem? And he gave us his vision of applying AI to agriculture and dairy.

On the same day, the PMO had a meeting along with Mr Krishnan and Abhishek of MeitY, with Amul and with some of my colleagues and within three weeks, the application went live.

The meeting was on 08 Jan and it went live on 11 Feb.

This is the world's largest co-operative with 3.6 million farmers, 2 billion milk transactions per year and 40 million cattle.

And today all these farmers, a large number of them being women, use the Saral app to get real responses about their cattle , the problems, the pregnancy, their milk production and so on. Look at the speed of diffusion An idea that the PM had on 08 Jan had become reality on 11 Feb. This to me is an example of the speed of execution of AI diffusion in India.

And I get the same sense of excitement I got on 30 Dec 2016, when the PM launched the BHIM payment application on UPI. And when he launched that application, he started something where today we have 21 billion transactions a month with 500 million users and the world's largest payment system. I feel the same sense that AI is at that point, and with his leadership and vision of how AI can be used for the benefit of Indians, common man, farmers, workers and so on, I think it's going to really take off.

Moreover, this is also for sovereign data. The data of Amul remains with Amul, and design is to make sure that it's within India. So, it's really a great and I think by the time many of these people come back in a few months, there will be many, more applications, and India will lead the world on showing how AI diffusion can matter to improve the lives of the common man, farmers, students, patients and so on. And I think this is where the AI road, the race to the top, is going to happen. And thank you for your leadership, sir". 

Prohibited Zone.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards has said that a new "prohibited zone"

would cover waters several miles beyond the Strait of Hormuz and

apply to ships even as far as the Arabian Sea. Iran had first announ-

ced the prohibited zone earlier this week as it continued talks with

Oman over a temporary shipping route through the strait.

The West Asia region is poised for yet another tense week as the

BRICS meeting takes off, in India, this weekend! 

Keralam sweats!

The state is witnessing unusually high temperature. Moreover many districts recorded a high ultraviolet index of above 7. 

The weakening south west monsoon and thinning cloud cover are the reason for this situation.

We normally do not feel the heat so strongly as the SW monsoon brings cloud cover, which blocks a significant amount of sunlight. This is not happening since monsoon has weakened and cloud formation has reduced.

The state has received only 5mm of rainfall or 7% of what is expected!

India's Autonomous Vessel Matangi.

A truly wonderful innovation!

The unmanned ship Matangi was developed by the Indian startup Sagar Defence Engineering. It recently made history by completing an autonomous sea voyage of around1,500 km from Bombay to Tuticorin without any crew on board.

The project was officially flagged off by the Defence Minister as part of the Indian Navy's "Swavlamban initiative", marking a massive milestone for indigenous AI and defence technology!

My take

Simply great!  

Tailpiece.

Two pieces of connected information to this story :-

    * Matangi is the daughter of Matanga maharshi. (Syamala Devi ...Mata Parvati)

    * A community called "Matang" in Maharashtra exists that claims to be  the descendants of this 

       rishi. Their traditional occupation was and still, is making brooms and bamboo products.

Manipur's final electoral roll is ready.

The final photo-electoral rolls for all 60 Assembly constituencies of Manipur were published yesterday putting the total number of voters at 19,60,620.

With 10,06,962, female voters outnumber their male counterparts (9,53,350). The gender ration is 1,056 females for every 1,000 male electors. The state has 308 third-gender electors.

A total of 56,871 electors have been added 30,650 electors have been deleted from the draft electoral roll published on 05 Jul.

BRICS 2026.

Under India's chairship, BRICS is entering a new era of deeper collaboration and stronger representation for the Global South.

     

* 49.5% of the world's population

* 40% of global GDP

* 26% of global trade

Built on Resilience, Innovation, Co-operation and Sustainability, India's leadership is making BRICS more action-oriented while advancing the vision of a fairer, more balanced global order.

The crucial question, however, is whether BRICS can translate this wide-ranging agenda into a common political outcome. The challenge is particularly significant because geopolitical differences, including disagreements over the West Asia conflict, have already made consensus difficult at some ministerial meetings. India's task as chair is consequently not to eliminate differences among members but to find enough common ground for a credible summit declaration.

 

Janmashtami.

No one remembers the baby girl born on the same day who was interchanged with Krishna, a baby boy, to save his life. The boy's life was precious but the girl was born to sacrifice her life. Janmashtami is not only the birthday of Krishna but also of Yogamaya.

It is said that Yogamaya flew off to the heaven freeing herself from the clutches of Kansa while announcing to him that his killer has been born. Scriptures do not clearly mention that she too got killed  like the other siblings of Krishna.

Yogamaya was also an incarnation of Shakti who came to be born along with the incarnation of Lord Vishnu to keep some old promise. When Kansa caught her by her feet and hurled her to the ground, she flew toward the heaven, saying "Kansa, your killer has already taken birth. I could have also killed you but since you caught me by my feet, I take it as your expression of humility and am pardoning you".

Krishna was born in the darkness of the night, into the locked confines of a jail.

However, at the moment of his birth, all the guards fell asleep, the chains were broken and the barred doors gently opened.

Similarly, as soon as Krishna (Chetna, Awareness) takes birth in our hearts, all darkness (Negativity) fades.

All chains (Ego, I, Me, Myself) are broken.

And all prison doors we keep ourselves in (Caste, Religion, Profession, Relations etc) are opened.

And that is the real message of Janmashtami. 

Adieu Gloria Steinem!

The trouble with putting people on a pedestal is that their follies tend to get magnified. So it was with Gloria Steinem, the ground breaking feminist activist whose death at 92 was announced yesterday. But even those who find her work for the CIA projecting American ideas during the Cold War problematic cannot begrudge her formidable work for women's causes. Her activism, from undercover reporting as a Playboy Bunny to championing laws against discrimination and sexual violence, inspired women around the world.

She admittedly learnt about grassroots activism during the years she spent in India in the late 1950s on a fellowship, when she saw Vinoba Bhave's Bhoodan movement up close. 

On her passing, the world would do well to reassess what it still needs to do to bridge the gender gap.

Adieu Gloria! My tears and prayers. 

Toady's revelation.....

The CJP is nothing but filled with guys from the Aam Admi Party. The idiot, Arvind Kejriwal, still hasn't learnt his lesson after the hard whack that he got from the people! The party has split into two - CJP and CJP (Democratic).

The guys have already called off their agitation that they had planned for the 5th of September. 

Meanwhile, RaGa and Akhilesh Yadav are on a tour of the US to meet Sorros and such other guys to collect moolah as the UP state assembly elections is drawing close.

These guys never understand......