Blog

  • India Responds to US Tariffs on Russian Oil Imports

    New Delhi, August 06, 2025: The Ministry of External Affairs of India has issued an official statement addressing the recent targeting of India’s oil imports from Russia by the United States. The statement, released today, emphasizes that India’s import decisions are driven by market factors and the critical need to ensure energy security for its 1.4 billion people.

    The ministry expressed disappointment over the US decision to impose additional tariffs on India, noting that several other countries are also acting in their own national interests. It described the US actions as “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.” India has reiterated its commitment to taking all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests in response to these developments.

    The statement comes amid growing tensions over global energy policies, with India maintaining its stance on maintaining stable oil supplies. The official response underscores the country’s resolve to protect its economic and strategic priorities.

  • South Western Railway Records Remarkable Growth in Freight and Revenue

    Hubballi, August 06, 2025: South Western Railway (SWR) has achieved significant growth in freight transportation and revenue during the first four months of the financial year 2025-26, from April to July 2025, reflecting its operational excellence and customer-centric strategies.

    During this period, SWR transported a total of 16.27 million tonnes of freight, marking a 15.8% increase compared to 14.05 million tonnes in the same period last year. This 2.22 million tonne surge highlights SWR’s efforts in optimizing operations and strengthening ties with key industries. Major commodities transported include iron ore, which led with 6.41 million tonnes (a 15.8% increase from 5.54 million tonnes last year), steel, which saw the highest growth at 3.54 million tonnes (a 42.1% increase from 2.49 million tonnes), and coal, which rose by 13.4% to 3.32 million tonnes. Raw materials for steel plants recorded the highest percentage increase, rising 51.4% from 0.47 million tonnes to 0.71 million tonnes. Fertilizer loading increased by 12.6% to 0.42 million tonnes, and container freight grew by 29.4% to 0.32 million tonnes.

    On the revenue front, SWR reported strong performance across all major streams. Passenger revenue reached ₹1,064 crore, with 59 million passengers traveling compared to 55 million in the same period last year. Coaching services, including parcels and other non-passenger services, generated ₹113 crore, up from ₹107 crore last year. Freight revenue, a key contributor, amounted to ₹1,716 crore, a significant rise from ₹1,387 crore in the previous year, reflecting robust demand and operational efficiency. Miscellaneous revenue from rentals, advertisements, and other sources grew to ₹79 crore from ₹62 crore. Overall, SWR recorded a total revenue of ₹2,972 crore, a ₹338 crore increase from ₹2,634 crore in the corresponding period of 2024.

    This consistent and broad-based performance underscores South Western Railway’s commitment to financial prudence, enhanced service delivery, and strategic growth in both freight and passenger sectors.

    Press Statement by Dr. Manjunath Kanamadi, Chief Public Relations Officer, South Western Railway, Hubballi.

  • First Aid and CPR Workshop Held at Ar-Ridwan Indian School of Excellence

    Kirimanjeshwar, August 4, 2025: Ar-Ridwan Indian School of Excellence (ARISE), located in Kirimanjeshwar, Byndoor Taluk, Udupi, hosted a successful First Aid and CPR training workshop in collaboration with Known Academy and Heart Hub. The event, held on the school campus, aimed to equip staff and community members with essential life-saving skills.

    Dr. Usama, the lead presenter, delivered an engaging session with clear instructions and hands-on simulations. His expertise made complex techniques accessible, empowering participants to act confidently in emergencies. The practical training was described as invaluable, fostering a sense of preparedness among attendees.

    Organized under the Dar-ul-Arqam Educational and Charitable Trust, the workshop was praised for its impact. ARISE expressed gratitude to Known Academy and Dr. Usama’s team, hoping to host similar programs in the future.

  • Gangolli’s Mohammed Rashdan Shines at 3rd International Level Open Karate Championship 2025 in Shivamogga

    Gangolli, August 04, 2025: The 3rd International Level Open Karate Championship 2025 concluded with great success at the Nehru Indoor Stadium in Shivamogga, Karnataka, where Gangolli’s own Mohammed Rashdan emerged as a standout performer.

    The young talent, son of Mohiddin (Noor) and Rubeena, and a 10th standard student at Stella Maris English Medium School, Gangolli, trains under the KDF Karate & Fitness Academy in Kundapura. Rashdan showcased his exceptional skills by securing a 2nd place in Kata and a triumphant 1st place in Kumite in the under 15 category, and has also earned several medals in district and state-level karate championships, bringing immense pride to his hometown and marking his presence on an international stage.

    The championship, organized by A.Z. Martial Arts Academy India and affiliated with Akhila Karnataka Sports Karate Association and Karate India Organisation (KIO), attracted nearly 1,500 students from countries including Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and the UAE. The event featured intense competition across 10 rings simultaneously, highlighting the global appeal of karate. Kiran Kundapura, a master at Kiran’s Dragon Fist Karate School in Kundapura, expressed his pride, stating, “We are thrilled to see nearly 1,500 students participate with fierce competition. It’s a proud moment to host this international event in Karnataka for the first time, instead of countries like the UAE and Malaysia.”

    Stella Maris High School felicitated Rashdan for his remarkable achievements, recognizing his dedication and talent. The certificate, signed by Chief Guest S. Madhu Bangarappa, Minister of School Education & Literacy and also Shivamogga District Incharge Minister, Government of Karnataka, and organizer Dr. Shihan A.Z. Muheeb, stands as a testament to his success. This third edition of the championship underscores the growing prominence of karate globally, with Rashdan’s performance serving as an inspiration to aspiring athletes in the region.

  • Udupi Police Launches Anonymous Drug Complaint & Support Portal for Students and PG Residents

    Udupi, August 1, 2025 – The Udupi District Police have introduced a new initiative to combat drug-related issues by launching an Anonymous Drug Complaint & Support Form specifically designed for students and paying guest (PG) residents. The online portal, accessible via https://tally.so/r/nWVA5k, allows individuals to report drug-related activities anonymously, ensuring confidentiality while addressing concerns in educational institutions and residential accommodations.

    The form, titled “Anonymous Drug Complaint & Support Form (Students / PG Residents) | Udupi Police,” enables users to report various issues, including drug sales, usage, peer pressure, suspicious activities, and storage or delivery of drugs. It also provides options to refer individuals for counseling and support, catering to those struggling with addiction or related challenges.

    Portal can also be accessed by scanning above QR Code

    Key Features of the Form

    The portal includes a comprehensive set of questions to gather detailed information while maintaining the anonymity of the complainant. Key questions include:

    • Nature of the Issue: Users can select multiple options such as drug sales in or around colleges/PG accommodations, drug use by peers, peer pressure, or suspicious persons involved in drug activities.
    • Location: Options to specify whether the activity is occurring at a college, hostel, shop, or other location.
    • Frequency: Choices to indicate if the issue happens daily, on weekends, occasionally, or has recently started.
    • Substances Involved: Respondents can identify substances like ganja/weed, pills, white powder (e.g., MDMA or cocaine), injectables, cigarettes, or others.
    • Support and Action: Users can request police action, counseling, or both, and have the option to upload photos, videos, or screenshots (with a 10 MB size limit) to support their report.
    • Confidential Contact: An optional field allows users to provide their name and contact number for follow-up, with a guarantee of confidentiality.

    Focus on Anonymity and Support

    The initiative emphasizes anonymity to encourage reporting without fear of repercussions. According to the Udupi Police, the platform is designed to address both enforcement and rehabilitation needs. Complainants can choose to report solely for informational purposes, request police intervention, or seek counseling for individuals struggling with addiction.

    A Step Toward Safer Communities

    This initiative reflects the Udupi Police’s commitment to curbing drug-related activities in educational and residential settings while providing support for those affected. By leveraging a user-friendly, no-code platform like Tally.so, the police have made it easier for students and residents to report concerns securely and efficiently.

    The portal is expected to enhance community safety, reduce drug-related incidents, and provide timely support to individuals in need. The public is encouraged to use the QR code or visit the provided link to report any suspicious activities or seek assistance.

    For more information or to submit a report, visit: https://tally.so/r/nWVA5k.

  • Bhatkal Bids Tearful Farewell to ‘Yaseen Sir’ with Prayers at Historic Mosques

    Bhatkal, August 1, 2025: Bhatkal came together in grief on Friday to bid a heartfelt farewell to Mohtesham Yaseen, fondly known as ‘Yaseen Sir,’ a beloved teacher and educationist who passed away on Thursday night due to a massive heart attack. He was 43.

    In a touching tribute to his legacy, funeral prayers for Yaseen Sir were held at two of Bhatkal’s historic mosques to accommodate the large crowds who gathered to honor him. After Friday prayers, the first janaza prayer took place at Khalifa Jamia Masjid, where students, friends, and community members stood in solemn silence, praying for his soul. Later, his body was brought to Jamia Masjid for a second funeral prayer, attended by an equally large number of mourners.

    Yaseen Sir was laid to rest at the local cemetery, surrounded by tearful students and residents who gathered to say their final goodbyes. The massive turnout and the rare gesture of dual funeral prayers underscored the deep respect and love he had earned through his dedicated service to education.

    Known not only as a teacher but also as a mentor, Yaseen Sir touched the lives of thousands of students. He had been running Mohtesham Academy since 1998 and recently served as an academic advisor at Anjuman Hami-e-Muslimeen, Bhatkal. His sudden passing has left a profound void in the town’s educational community.

  • Does the video show iron mixed in gold jewellery sold in Kalyan Jewellers in Dubai? What’s the truth?

    Claim

    Kalyan Jewellers closed and banned both in Kuwait and Dubai as iron was found in their gold jewellery Indian govt should investigate immediately to stop cheating people

    Detailed Explanation

    According to a 1:04 video that has gone viral on social media, iron was found mixed in the jewellery during inspections at Kalyan Jewellers in Kuwait and Dubai, leading to the closure of the business in both countries.

    What’s the truth?

    We used Google Reverse Image search to track down the viral video. We discovered that on November 21, 2017, a viral video called “Gold Counterfeiting” was uploaded by the Malainine Bella YouTube page. So it turns out that this video has been circulating on social media since 2017.

    Further investigation revealed a post by Kalyan Jewellers on its X page dated July 24, 2025. As per the post, “Let’s say no to spreading fake news on social media. The perpetrators behind the fake news on Kalyan Jewellers were arrested in 2018. We always prioritise customers, as evidenced by our 4 Level Assurance Certificate.”

    Subsequently, we found an article by The News Minute reported on March 30, 2018, under the headline “Dubai cops act on those spreading fake news on quality of Kalyan Jewellers gold”. It stated that the Dubai Public Prosecution has ordered Dubai Police to initiate criminal proceedings against five people for spreading false information about Kalyan Jewellers. It further added that this action was taken based on a complaint filed by the company and that all five accused are of Indian origin.

    Conclusion:

    Thus, we infer that, based on our research, the video spreading on social media has been available since 2017. According to a statement issued by Kalyan Jewellers in 2018, “five people have been arrested in connection with this incident.”

  • Gangolli’s Aysha Shaheeba Shines in UGC-NET Ph.D.-Only Category

    Gangolli, July 30, 2025: Eight students from the MBA Department of Sahyadri College of Engineering & Management, Mangaluru, have achieved a remarkable feat by clearing the UGC-NET examination under the Ph.D.-Only category, marking a significant milestone for the institution and the Gangolli community. Leading the pack is Aysha Shaheeba, a Gangolli native and topper in college, bringing immense pride to the region.

    Aysha Shaheeba, daughter of Mohammed Saleem and Noorunnisa, hails from Gangolli. She completed her schooling at Touheed English Medium School and earned her Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Accounting and Finance from Bhandarkars’ Arts & Science College, Kundapur, between 2020 and 2023. Currently pursuing her Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance at Sahyadri College, Aysha has distinguished herself as a college topper. She has also published a research paper titled Integrating E-Learning to Enhance Holistic Education in the 21st Century in the Journal of IMIS, indexed in ProQuest, showcasing her academic excellence.

    The UGC-NET Ph.D.-Only category qualification, as per the revised University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines, allows candidates to pursue doctoral research at premier universities and research institutions without eligibility for Assistant Professorship. This achievement opens significant opportunities for these students to advance their academic careers.

    The successful candidates are:

    1. Aysha Shaheeba
    2. Monisha A R
    3. Prathitha
    4. Amritha Nair
    5. Yashaswini Kulal
    6. Renuka
    7. Vignesh Shetty
    8. Shreya U G

    The success is credited to a focused UGC-NET training program organized by the MBA Department, led by Mr. Chethan Kumar, a Sahyadri alumnus and Research Fellow at TAPMI, Manipal. His structured guidance, conceptual clarity, and strategic preparation were pivotal in the students’ performance. Last year, only one student from the department cleared the exam, making this year’s tally of eight qualifiers, including Aysha’s College achievement, a testament to the training program’s effectiveness.

    The Gangolli community celebrates Aysha Shaheeba and her peers for their outstanding accomplishments, which highlight the potential of local talent and bring pride to the region.

  • Assamese Actress Nandini Kashyap Arrested in Fatal Hit-and-Run Case in Guwahati

    Guwahati, July 30, 2025: Assamese film star Nandini Kashyap was arrested today in connection with a hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of a 21-year-old student in Guwahati, sparking widespread outrage across Assam.

    The tragic incident occurred in the early hours of July 25 in Dakhingaon, when Samiul Haque, a student at Nalbari Polytechnic and a Guwahati Municipal Corporation employee, was struck by a speeding Scorpio SUV allegedly driven by Kashyap. Haque, who was returning home around 3 a.m. after working on a light installation project, suffered critical injuries. Eyewitnesses reported that the driver fled the scene without offering aid. Haque was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries on July 29.

    Following Haque’s death, the case escalated from a bailable offense to a non-bailable one, with police adding charges of culpable homicide not amounting to murder. Authorities traced the SUV to an apartment in Kahilipara, where Kashyap allegedly attempted to conceal the vehicle. Viral videos circulating online show Haque’s colleagues confronting the actress at the location.

    Guwahati Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Jayanta Sarathi Borah confirmed the arrest, stating, “Nandini Kashyap was arrested today in the hit-and-run case. Initially, she was questioned under bailable sections, but after the victim’s death, non-bailable charges were added. She will be produced in court.”

    Kashyap, known for her role in the recent hit Assamese film Rudra, has not issued a public statement. The incident has triggered public anger, with widespread calls for justice for Haque.

  • Karwar: Smart Card Distribution for Drivers, Memorandum Submitted for Issues Faced by Fish Truck Drivers

    Karwar, July 29, 2025: The Karnataka Drivers’ Union (Regd.), Uttara Kannada District, organized a smart card distribution program for drivers in Karwar. During the event, a memorandum addressing the challenges faced by drivers operating fish trucks was submitted to the Minister-in-Charge.

    The program was attended by Labour Minister Santosh Lad, Uttara Kannada District Minister-in-Charge Mankal Vaidya, Karwar MLA Satish Sail, Sirsi MLA Bhimanna Naik, Uttara Kannada District President Shri Munna Ganeshpur, District Coordinator Lingaraj Khannur, Mundgod Taluk Vice-President Santosh Esappanavar, Working President Makbul Hubbali, Karwar Taluk Honorary President Ramesh Kotarakar, Ankola Taluk President Praveen Naik, Dandeli Taluk Publicity Committee President Gausmohiddin Kittur, Satyappa Naik, along with other driver colleagues.

    The union representatives stated that the ministers assured appropriate solutions to address the drivers’ concerns during the event.