India
Flyers on Indian flight stuck in Dhaka Airport for over 12 hours. Here’s why
An IndiGo plane from India’s Mumbai to Guwahati had to make an emergency landing at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka early today (January 13, 2024).
The diverted plane landed in Dhaka at 4 am after failing to land at the Guwahati airport owing to poor visibility, reports NDTV.
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According to the airline, the passengers who are still onboard the plane have been served refreshments, and a replacement crew is being organised to transport them to Guwahati.
"IndiGo flight 6E 5319 from Mumbai to Guwahati was diverted to Dhaka, Bangladesh due to bad weather in Guwahati. Due to operational reasons, an alternate set of crew is being arranged to operate the flight from Dhaka to Guwahati. The passengers were kept informed of updates and were served with refreshments on board. We sincerely regret the inconvenience caused," an IndiGo statement said.
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Several passengers resorted to social media to express their dissatisfaction with the extended wait following the unexpected reroute. Former Mumbai Youth Congress head Suraj Singh Thakur, who was on his way to Imphal to participate in the Congress' Bharat Jodo Nyaya Yatra, wrote on X that the passengers had been on the flight for several hours.
"I took IndiGo6E flight 6E 5319 from Mumbai to Guwahati. But due to dense fog, the flight couldn't land in Guwahati. Instead, it landed in Dhaka," he wrote.
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Another flier wrote on X that the 178 passengers had been waiting for more than four hours for another crew to fly them back to their location.
"IndiGo6E stuck inside aircraft with 178 passengers for 9 hours now, flying 6E 5319 from Mumbai to Guwahati. We made a landing in Dhaka around 4am because of lower visibility in the North East. We have been waiting for another crew for 4 hours now, can we please expedite?" He wrote.
India congratulates PM Hasina on election victory, hopes for ‘even stronger momentum’ in ties
India has congratulated Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on her election victory and eyes “even stronger momentum and growth” in the bilateral partnership in support of each other’s national development.
Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma during his call on PM Hasina today (January 08, 2024) conveyed warm greetings and congratulations on behalf of the government of India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Read more: Envoys of India, China, Russia and four other countries congratulate Hasina on her big election victory
India was the first country to congratulate the Prime Minister today.
The Indian high commissioner expressed hope that during the new term of PM Hasina’s government, there will be even stronger momentum and growth in the bilateral partnership.
The envoy said that India will continue to support people of Bangladesh in realizing their vision of a stable, progressive and prosperous nation, guided by their long-standing friendship and inspired by their shared sacrifices in the Liberation War.
Read more: Visiting foreign observers describe National Election 2024 in Bangladesh as ‘free, fair and safe’
Envoys of India, China, Russia and four other countries congratulate Hasina on her big election victory
The envoys of India, Russia, China, Bhutan, Philippines, Singapore, and Sri Lanka paid a courtesy call on Awami League President and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at her official residence Ganabhaban on Monday (January 08, 2024) morning.
Besides, the delegation of Aga Khan Diplomatic Representatives also met her.
Read more: Visiting foreign observers describe National Election 2024 in Bangladesh as ‘free, fair and safe’
On behalf of their respective countries and organisation, they congratulated Hasina on her party’s absolute victory in Sunday's 12th National Parliamentary Election, according to a release from PM’s press wing.
The delegates expressed their firm commitment to continue cooperation with Bangladesh, it said.
The prime minister thanked them and sought their cooperation in the development and advancement of Bangladesh.
Read more: India congratulates PM Hasina on election victory, hopes for ‘even stronger momentum’ in ties
Trade between Bangladesh, India through Sonamasjid land port suspended due to nat’l election
Export-import activities between Bangladesh and India through Sonamasjid land port have been suspended from this morning due to 12th national election across the country, slated for tomorrow.
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However, immigration through the land port is going on as usual.
A notice has been issued, signed by joint commissioner of customs at the land port, Mohammad Mahbub Hasan, in this regard on Friday.
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Full-scale trade activities will resume on Monday.
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JN.1 Covid variant: WHO charts its rapid global spread
A sub-variant of the Omicron strain of coronavirus has been classified as a "variant of interest" by the World Health Organization, because of "its rapidly increasing spread".
JN.1 has been found in many countries around the world, including India, China, UK and the United States, reports BBC.
The risk to the public is currently low and current vaccines continue to offer protection, the WHO says.
But it warns Covid and other infections could rise this winter.
Respiratory viruses such as flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and childhood pneumonia are also on the rise in the northern hemisphere.
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The virus which causes Covid is constantly changing over time and sometimes this leads to new variants developing.
Omicron has been the globally dominant variant for some time.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is currently tracking a number of variants of interest linked to Omicron - including JN.1 - although none of them are deemed to be concerning.
But JN.1 is spreading quickly in many corners of the world.
It is currently the fastest-growing variant in the United States, according to the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, accounting for 15-29% of infections.
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The UK Health Security Agency says JN.1 currently makes up around 7% of positive Covid tests analysed in a lab. It said it would continue to monitor all available data on this and other variants.
Winter surge
JN.1 is spreading fast in all regions, probably because it has an additional mutation in the spike protein compared to the BA.2.86 variant from which it's descended.
"It is anticipated that this variant may cause an increase in Sars-Cov-2 [coronavirus] cases amid a surge of infections of other viral and bacterial infections, especially in countries entering the winter season," the WHO's risk assessment says.
There is still limited evidence on how capable JN.1 is of getting round the immunity offered by vaccines, the WHO says.
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There are no reports of people becoming more ill with this variant than previous ones.
But more studies are needed to work out the health impact, the WHO says, as the number of countries reporting data on people admitted to hospital with Covid has dramatically reduced.
To prevent infections and severe disease, the WHO advises:
• wear a mask in crowded, enclosed areas• cover up coughs and sneezes• clean your hands regularly• stay up to date with Covid and flu vaccinations, especially if vulnerable• stay home if ill• get tested if you have symptoms
Indian premier Narendra Modi's party set for victory in 3 states ahead of 2024 national vote
India's Hindu nationalist party was headed for a clear win in three out of four states Sunday, according to the election commission's website. The crucial poll has pitted India's opposition against the ruling party of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of next year's vital national vote.
Ballot counting showed Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party, or BJP, was poised to wrest control of the states of Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan from the Indian National Congress, India's main opposition party. The BJP was also likely to be re-elected in Madhya Pradesh in for a record fifth term.
Vote count begins in 4 Indian states pitting opposition against premier Modi ahead of 2024 election
The Congress was comfortably leading in Telangana state which is ruled by the strong Telangana Rashtra Samithi, known for opposing BJP in the state.
Final results are expected later Sunday.
Vote counting in a fifth state, Mizoram, is set for Monday where BJP's regional ally, Mizo National Front, is in power.
Elections in the five states were held last month where more than 160 million people, or a sixth of India's electorate were eligible to vote in the polls. Polling in India is generally done in phases owing to the large population.
Modi thanked voters for "their unwavering support" in the states his party was leading.
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"The results in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan indicate that the people of India are firmly with politics of good governance and development, which the @BJP4India stands for," Modi wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Modi and his party remain popular on a national level after nearly a decade in power and surveys suggest he is expected to win a third consecutive term in 2024. But a new alliance of 28 opposition parties, called INDIA, is expected to challenge Modi's party nationally. The acronym, which stands for Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, comprises India's previously fractured opposition parties and is led by the Congress party.
Both the Indian premier and the Congress leader Rahul Gandhi flew across the five states to woo voters as they campaigned to support their parties' candidates. The charged-up voting campaigns witnessed both leaders promising voters subsidies, loan waivers and employment guarantees.
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Modi will seek reelection next year at a time when India's global diplomatic reach is rising. But in recent polls, Congress has dented his party's image of invincibility by toppling local BJP governments in state elections in southern Karnataka and northern Himachal Pradesh.
The elections come at a time when India is facing multiple challenges; rising unemployment, attacks by Hindu nationalists against the country's minorities, particularly Muslims, and a shrinking space for dissent and free media.
12 Must-watch South Indian Films Releasing in December 2023
The end of the year is already here. The cinematic realms of Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada promise to illuminate the silver screen. New directors and actors are also joining the ranks of the famous ones to add to this year-end movie season. This article presents a curated selection of 12 must-watch South Indian films releasing in December 2023.
12 Most Hyped South Indian Movies Coming in December 2023
Hi Nanna | Telugu | December 7, 2023
The debutant director Shouryuv is coming up with this romantic family drama written by himself. This co-production of Mohan Cherukuri (CVM), Murthy K. S. under Vyra Entertainments, and Dr. Vijender Reddy Teegala, stars Nani and Mrunal Thakur.
The storyline follows Nana, a young woman struggling to find her place in the world, who discovers self-worth and love with the help of Nani.
Hesham Abdul Wahab composed the music, Sanu Varghese handled the cinematography, and Praveen Anthony did all the edits.
Gangs of Godavari | Telugu | December 8, 2023
Krishna Chaitanya directs the action and history film, with Sai Soujanya and Suryadevara Naga Vamsi producing. Fortune Four Cinemas, Sithara Entertainments, and Srikara Studios are behind the production.
The cast includes Vishwak Sen, Anjali, Neha Shetty, Nassar from Baahubali, Sai Kumar, and Goparaju Ramana, with Nora Fatehi in a special appearance.
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The storyline delves into the sand and water mafia in the 1980s Godavari region of Andhra Pradesh.
Yuvan Shankar Raja handles the music, Anith Madhadi works on cinematography, and Navin Nooli takes charge of editing.
Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire | Telugu | December 22, 2023
This much-anticipated action thriller is written and directed by Prashanth Neel, with Vijay Kiragandur as the producer. The film features Prabhas in the lead role, supported by Prithviraj Sukumaran, Shruti Haasan, Tinnu Anand, Jagapathi Babu, Easwari Rao, Ramachandra Raju, and Sriya Reddy.
The story revolves around a gang leader fulfilling a promise to his dying friend by confronting other criminal gangs.
Ravi Basrur took care of the sound and music, and Bhuvan Gowda handled the cinematography. Salaar will be released in Telugu, along with dubbed versions in Kannada, Malayalam, Tamil, and Hindi.
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Annapoorani: The Goddess of Food | Tamil | December 1, 2023
In his directorial debut, Nilesh Krishnaa brings forth this drama jointly bankrolled by Jatin Sethi and R. Ravindran under Zee Studios, Trident Arts, and Naad SStudios. The lead cast includes Nayanthara, Jai, Sathyaraj, K. S. Ravikumar, Redin Kingsley, and Renuka.
The narrative revolves around a girl born into an orthodox family aspiring to become India's premier chef, challenging conventions to realize her dream.
Thaman S composes the score, Sathyan Sooryan supervises the cinematography, and Praveen Anthony oversees editing.
Parking | Tamil | December 1, 2023
Directed by Ramkumar Balakrishnan, "Parking" unravels the mystery of daily parking woes, depicting the search for parking spaces around apartments and streets.
The cast features Harish Kalyan, Indhuja Ravichandran, Prathana Nathan, MS Baskar, Ilavarasu, and Rama Rajendra. Sam CS provides the music, and the film is a production of Passion Studios and Soldiers' Factory.
Jiju Sunny manages cinematography, while Philomin Raj takes on the editing duties.
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Conjuring Kannappan | Tamil | December 8, 2023
Helmed by Selvinraj Xavier, this horror comedy features a star-studded cast, including Sathish, Regina Cassandra, Nasser, VTV Ganesh, Saranya Ponvannan, Anand Raj, Namo Narayana, Elli AvrRam, Redin Kingsley, Jason Shah, Benedict Garrett, and Adithya Kathir.
Conjuring Kannappan narrates the story of a man experiencing visions of ghosts in the isolated bungalow he recently moved into with his family. The plot encompasses dreams, death, and the protagonist finding himself trapped in a ghostly dreamscape.
The horror comedy is bankrolled by AGS productions. Yuvan Shankar Raja handles the music, and S Yuva is the cinematographer.
10 Overseas Places Bangladeshis Can Visit Under BDT 10,000
Enjoying the unparalleled beauty of nature cannot be measured by any monetary value. However, everything in the world comes with a price, tourism is no exception. Though travelling costs are getting higher day by day, Bangladeshi tourists can visit overseas within a tight budget with proper planning and right information. Let's explore some popular international tourist attractions to visit with 10,000 taka.
10 Overseas Places to Visit from Bangladesh with a Budget of BDT 10,000
Cherrapunji
This city, which is also called Sohra, is situated in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya. Notable attractions here include Mawsynram, the Double Decker Root Bridge, Mosmai Cave, and Mokdok View Point. Foreign visitors are drawn to enchanting waterfalls like Nohkalikai Falls, Thankharang Park, Mosmai Falls, Kalikai Falls, Rainbow Falls, Krangsuri Falls, and Seven Sisters Falls.
To reach Sohra, travelers must take a train from Dhaka to Sylhet and then a bus to Tamabil. The minimum train fare from Dhaka to Sylhet is around BDT 400, and the bus journey from Sylhet to Tamabil costs BDT 35.
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Upon reaching Tamabil, complete Bangladesh immigration and cross-border checking at Indian customs. Subsequently, a taxi or minibus will leave for Shillong through Dauki Bazaar. Cherrapunji is a bit further, past the Wardslake gate of Shillong.
For budget accommodation, homestays in Naingriat village can be arranged, with room rents for 4 people ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,500, approximately equal to BDT 1,330 to 2,000 (Rs 1 = BDT 1.33).
The cost of food can range from Rs 160 to Rs 200 (approx. BDT 215 to BDT 266) per person per day.
All in all, one can travel from Dhaka via Shillong to Cherrapunji and back to Dhaka in 3 days for around 8 to 9 thousand taka.
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Delhi
Delhi, the Indian capital on the banks of the river Yamuna, retains its popularity among travelers due to its historical significance. Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar, Chandni Chowk, India Gate, Red Fort, and Emperor Humayun's Tomb are among the city's prominent sightseeing spots.
Dhaka residents can reach Delhi affordably by first taking a bus to Kolkata. A non-AC coach will cost around BDT 890 to BDT 900 per person. From Kolkata's Howrah, they need to take a train to Delhi, with a non-AC sleeper costing approximately Rs 650 to Rs 700 (close proximity to BDT 865 to BDT 931).
Opting for a tour agency's sightseeing package, which typically costs Rs 300 to 500 per person (hovering near BDT 399 to BDT 665), is recommended.
The average daily cost for food is Rs 390 (roughly BDT 519). Double-bed rooms in Paharganj can be found for Rs 500 to Rs 650 (approx. BDT 655 to BDT 865).
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Shimla
The capital and largest city of Himachal Pradesh in North India is known as the Queen of Hill Stations. Places to visit in the picturesque city include Mall Road, The Ridge, Summer Hill, Viceroy Lodge, St. Michael's Cathedral, Himachal State Museum, and Jakhu.
Budget visitors must first come to Kolkata from Dhaka by the ways mentioned earlier. A minimum of BDT 1,100 will be spent here along with the immigration process. After that, the explorers have to go to Howrah station in Kolkata as before. From there, the Kalka Mail train will take them to Kalka, for which the ticket price will be around Rs 710 (about BDT 945). Toy Train fare for Kalka to Shimla is Rs.50 (close to BDT 67).
A room in Shimla can be rented for Rs 1,000 (near BDT 1,330), and food per day can cost Rs 194 (almost BDT 258) per person.
Read more: Lawachara National Park Travel Guide: Evergreen forest in northeastern Bangladesh
No political issues on agenda for foreign secretary's meeting with Indian counterpart: Momen
Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen on Monday (November 20, 2023) said no political issues will be discussed in the foreign secretary-level talks between the two countries.
"I don't think so. Political discussion has already been done. There will be no discussion about politics there," Momen told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs when a reporter wanted to whether political and upcoming elections will be discussed in the forthcoming meeting.
The Foreign Minister said it is routine meeting between the two countries where various issues of mutual interest will be discussed.
"We do FOC (Foreign Office Consultations) with many countries. It is a routine matter," he added.
Read: Try to figure out a way to have dialogue without pre-conditions: Peter Haas urges parties
Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen is scheduled to visit India on November 23 or 24 to hold a regular bilateral meeting with his Indian counterpart Vinay Mohan Kwatra.
This is the second foreign secretary-level meeting between the two countries this year. The first one was held in February in Dhaka.
Both the countries express their satisfaction on the excellent bilateral relation that exists between the two countries.
In the Foreign Office Consultations, the two countries usually discuss all the major issues of mutual interests to promote cooperation encompassing all sectors.
Read: No scope for dialogue now: Quader acknowledges receiving Donald Lu’s letter from Peter Haas
Recently, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said the relationship between Bangladesh and India today stands out as a model in terms of shared benefits.
In an interaction in London, he said the two countries have settled the land boundary and maritime border issues.
Jaishankar highlighted connectivity cooperation, energy supply and use of ports and noted that Bangladesh-India ties stand as model ties.
Read more: With whom dialogue will take place, FM wants to know
World Cup 2023 Final: Early wickets pose challenge for Australia in pursuit of 241
Australia faced an early setback, losing three wickets within the first 10 overs in their pursuit of 241 against India in the ICC World Cup 2023 final on Sunday in Ahmedabad.
Mohammad Shami, India's most successful bowler in this World Cup, claimed the first wicket in the second over of the innings as David Warner edged, and Virat Kohli took a sharp catch at the slip cordon.
World Cup 2023: Kohli Falls as Australia Take Control
In the fifth over of the innings, Mitchell Marsh fell victim to Jasprit Bumrah. The delivery, positioned outside the off-stumps, saw Marsh making no foot movement, resulting in an edge to the wicketkeeper after scoring 15 off 15 balls.
World Cup 2023 Final: India stumble, lose 3 wickets before reaching 100
Bumrah struck again to dismiss Steven Smith. This time, it was an offcutter outside off stumps. Smith missed, and the ball hit his pad, leading to an lbw appeal. The umpire raised his finger, but TV replays showed that the impact was outside off.
If Smith had opted for a review, he would have been declared not out. But Smith decided to walk off instead of going for a review.
ICC World Cup 2023 Final: Australia sniffing at 6th title after restricting India to 240 in Ahmedabad
After 12 overs, Australia were at 68 for three, with Marnus Labuschagne and Travis Head at the crease.