CM Stalin highlights TN’s ‘remarkable progress’ in reducing HIV prevalence

Chennai, Nov 30, 2025
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin on Sunday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating new HIV/AIDS infections by 2030, declaring that the State’s decades-long, sustained campaign has placed it well ahead of the national average.

Addressing an event on World AIDS Day 2025, observed on December 1, the Chief Minister described Tamil Nadu’s progress as the result of nearly four decades of unwavering political will, strong public-health interventions and community participation.

Recalling that India’s first HIV case was detected in Chennai in 1986, CM Stalin said Tamil Nadu has travelled “a long and determined 39-year journey” from that moment of alarm to becoming one of the country’s strongest performers in HIV prevention and treatment.

He credited this achievement to consistent interventions led by the Tamil Nadu State AIDS Control Society (TANSACS), in partnership with non-governmental organisations, medical institutions and community-based groups.

The Chief Minister highlighted that Tamil Nadu has reduced HIV prevalence from 1.11 per cent in 2002 to just 0.16 per cent in 2023–24, significantly lower than the national average of 0.23 per cent, and a benchmark many states still aspire to reach.

He noted that these outcomes were possible due to the State’s strong network of care facilities, which today includes 2,600 integrated counselling and testing centres, 81 anti-retroviral therapy (ART) centres and 172 link ART units operating across districts.

CM Stalin also emphasised the state’s comprehensive maternal-health protocol, under which all pregnant women are screened for HIV and syphilis to prevent mother-to-child transmission, a programme that has contributed to steep reductions in new paediatric HIV cases.

Reiterating the government’s social commitment, the Chief Minister pointed to the monthly financial support of Rs 1,000 provided to 7,618 HIV-infected and affected children to aid their nutrition, education and healthcare needs.

Referring to this year’s World AIDS Day theme, “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response,” CM Stalin said the road ahead requires renewed strategies to address emerging vulnerabilities in a rapidly changing world.

He urged people to stand against stigma and discrimination, and treat individuals living with HIV with dignity, respect and compassion as Tamil Nadu works toward a future free of new HIV/AIDS infections.(Agency)

Elon Musk features in new teaser of Nikhil Kamath’s upcoming podcast episode

New Delhi, Nov 30, 2025
A new teaser of Elon Musk’s appearance on Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath’s “WTF is” podcast has sparked fresh excitement online, with Kamath releasing a second black-and-white clip that blends humour with deeper reflections from the Tesla and SpaceX chief.

The video, posted on X, opens with a light moment as Kamath comments on Musk’s physique, saying he looks “bigger and bulkier” than expected.

Musk laughs it off before the conversation shifts to his long-running fascination with the letter ‘X’.

When Kamath asks why he likes the letter so much, Musk responds jokingly, “Sometimes I wonder what’s wrong with me.”

The teaser then takes a pop-culture turn when Kamath asks which character from “The Matrix” Musk would want to be.

Musk replies, “Hopefully not Agent Smith? He’s my hero,” keeping the tone playful. Kamath shared the clip with the caption, “Here’s to delaying gratification.

“Here’s to delaying gratification. The future belongs to the patient,” hinting at the theme of the full conversation while offering few concrete details beyond its “coming soon” promise.

The future belongs to the patient,” hinting at the broader themes of perseverance and long-term thinking that may feature in the full conversation.

This comes just a day after Kamath released the first teaser, a 39-second silent clip showing him and Musk sitting together in what appears to be an industrial setting.

The two sip coffee and exchange smiles without any dialogue, while a SpaceX logo on Kamath’s mug prompted speculation about the topics and setting of the full episode.

Kamath’s podcast has increasingly drawn global personalities from technology, business, and politics.

Previous guests include Microsoft founder Bill Gates, investor Vinod Khosla, and Perplexity AI CEO Aravind Srinivas.(Agency)

12 officers graduate from IAF’s Navigation Training, Weapons System Schools

Hyderabad, Nov 30, 2025
Twelve officers have graduated after completing their training at the Navigation Training School (NTS) and Weapons Systems School (WSS) at Air Force Station Begumpet here.

The graduating course of 109ᵗʰ Advance Navigation Course (ANC) comprised seven officers, including three from the Indian Air Force (IAF), two from the Indian Navy, one from the Indian Coast Guard, and one from the Royal Malaysian Air Force. These officers would be stepping out as instructors and would be taking up instructional assignments in their respective services, said a defence release on Sunday.

The 141st ab-initio Navigation Course comprised five Flight Cadets of the IAF and one officer from the Sri Lankan Air Force.

The valedictory function of the 109th Advance Navigation Course and 141st ab-initio Navigation Course, and Stage-II & III Weapon System (WS) course was held at Air Force Station Begumpet.

Assistant Chief of Air Staff, Intelligence, Air Vice Marshal Sanjeev Kumar Taliyan was the Reviewing Officer for the function.

Meritorious trainees of all the courses were awarded with trophies, medals and certificates during the function.

The Flight Cadets, who have completed their training at NTS and WSS, would be commissioned as officers in the IAF during the Combined Graduation Parade to be held at the Air Force Academy, Dundigal, on December 13.

The Navigation Training School is a premier aerial navigation training institution of the IAF. It has been transforming flight cadets to astute navigators and imparting advanced navigation skills and instructional techniques to the selected aviators of the IAF, Navy, Coast Guard and friendly foreign countries for the last seven decades.

Weapon Systems School, also located at Air Force Station Begumpet, is a key component of the IAF to unify all weapon system operators under a single and specialised entity and provides contemporary, effect-based training to prepare officers of the new branch in line with the IAF’s requirements.(Agency)

Amid demand for SIR debate, Kiren Rijiju seeks Oppn support for smooth Winter Session

New Delhi, Nov 30, 2025
Pointing to a suggestion for a discussion on SIR at a meeting of all-party floor leaders, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said the government is ready to discuss every issue amid smooth transaction of business in the Winter Session of Parliament starting on Monday.

“Suggestions given by the floor leaders will be considered and presented to the Business Advisory Committees. Which matter will be discussed in the House is part of a laid down procedure,” said Rijiju on the eve of the start of the Session.

Rijiju said during the all-party meeting, no one said that they would disrupt Parliament. “Some leaders said they might create a ruckus in the House over SIR. We’re ready to listen to the Opposition… Parliament belongs to everyone, to the country. There’s a way to discuss every issue in Parliament. There are rules, there are traditions,” he said.

The Minister said political disagreement between parties is an integral part of parliamentary democracy, but despite these, we can manage to protest or discuss issues without disrupting House proceedings and achieve high productivity in the Session.

Earlier, he said, “The meeting of all-party floor leaders was very good and highly productive. I thank all the floor leaders of the political parties. Everyone participated and presented their party’s views.”

“On behalf of our government, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha J.P. Nadda, my ministerial colleagues and I took notes of all the suggestions,” he said.

The Winter Session of Parliament will begin on Monday (December 1) and will continue until December 19.

A day before the session, a series of strategic meetings began on Sunday, and floor leaders from all parties discussed issues for almost two hours.

Rijiju said on Sunday that 50 leaders from 36 political parties took part in the meeting.

“On behalf of the government, I wish to assure the Opposition parties that we will do our best and offer cooperation for the smooth functioning of the Parliament,” he said.

The Parliamentary Affairs Minister also appealed to the Opposition leaders to cooperate with the government for a fruitful Session.(Agency)

Sonu Nigam opens up about performing 30 songs without a break during his show in Hyderabad

Mumbai, Nov 30, 2025
Singer Sonu Nigam opened up about his remarkable performance in Hyderabad, where he sang 30 songs consecutively without taking a pause.

In an exclusive quote shared with IANS, the singer shared how deeply he connected with the Hyderabad audience during his concert, which led him to extend the show and perform over 30 songs non-stop. He mentioned that even after traveling and performing extensively across the US, Canada, and India, stepping on stage in Hyderabad made him feel rejuvenated. Sonu Nigam also praised the city’s audience for truly understanding and feeling music, saying their energy inspired him to give his best performance.

Sonu stated, “I extended the show because Hyderabad listens with its heart. Despite travelling and performing across the US, Canada and India these past few days, the moment I stepped on stage tonight, I felt recharged. Hyderabad’s audiences understand music, they feel it. That energy pushed me to give them everything I had. I’m already dreaming up something entirely new for Ahmedabad next month.”

Conceptualized by BookMyShow, Sonu Nigam extended his concert by an additional 30 minutes. During the show, he performed a range of songs, from the soulful “Abhi Mujh Mein Kahin” to the timeless classic “Kal Ho Naa Ho.” He also performed on his indie hits “Tu, Deewana Tera,” and “Ab Mujhe Raat Din.” The arena came alive as he shifted into the high-energy tracks “Bijuria,” “Pardesia,” and “Mere Dholna.”

Speaking about the concert, Anil Makhija, COO – Live Entertainment & Venues, BookmyShow, mentioned, “Satrangi Re is not just a concert; it is an immersive journey into love, longing, joy and nostalgia. To witness an entire arena rise, sing and almost dissolve into Sonu Nigam’s voice was an unforgettable sight. This is why we create live experiences — to remind people of the power music holds.”

After Hyderabad, Sonu Nigam will take his ‘Satrangi Re’ concert to Ahmedabad on December 21, followed by shows in Pune, Kolkata, and Delhi.(Agency)

Orry shares how his outfit on Interrogation Day in Rs 252 crore drug scandal reflected his honesty

Mumbai, Nov 30, 2025
Bollywood socialite and social media influencer Orry, aka Orhan Awatramani, shared insights into his choice of outfit on the day of his interrogation in the Rs 252 crore drug scandal.

In an exclusive statement shared with IANS, he revealed that it was a reflection of his honesty and integrity. Orry explained how his attire was meant to convey transparency and sincerity during the intense questioning. He shared, “The outfit I wore is a reflection of my honesty in the interrogation. Fully nude and transparent. I wore a Kala Dhaga too sent by my Guru.”

“I remember when I had done Bigg Boss, Salman Khan told me that I will never get this level of fame again, so when the fame fades, don’t go crazy for the attention. Don’t do crazy things. Be graceful. I held that with me. But when this news broke out, I got a taste of that feeling again. Of course, it’s for the wrong and untrue reasons, but I did get a taste of that fame,” added Orry.

On November 28, Orry appeared before the Mumbai Police in connection with a Rs 252 crore mephedrone (MD) drug seizure case. He reached the Anti-Narcotics Cell (ANC) office in Ghatkopar around to record his statement. As per reports, his appearance came after the ANC issued two notices following his name surfacing during the interrogation of arrested drug trafficker Mohammed Salim Mohammed Suhail Shaikh.

The drug seizure case traces back to March 2024, when authorities busted a mephedrone manufacturing unit in Sangli, Maharashtra. Over 126 kg of the drug, valued at approximately Rs 252 crore, was recovered.

This marked the second time the social media influencer has been involved in a substance-related controversy. Previously, Orry, along with seven others, was booked by the Jammu and Kashmir Police for allegedly consuming alcohol at a hotel in Katra, near the Vaishno Devi shrine. The incident breached local regulations that ban alcohol and non-vegetarian food consumption in Katra. An FIR was filed for breaking the rules and offending religious sentiments.(Agency)

Delighted that winter tourism in U’khand is attracting lot of people: PM Modi

New Delhi, Nov 30, 2025
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that India has immense potential to emerge as a leading winter tourism hub and urged people to consider the Himalayas while planning their next vacation.

Speaking during the 128th episode of his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’, he said, “Winter has arrived, and so has the season for winter tourism. Many countries have made winter tourism a major pillar of their economy. Many countries have the world’s most successful winter festivals and winter sports models. These countries have made experiences like skiing, snowboarding, snow trekking, ice climbing and family snow parks, part of their identity. They have also transformed their winter festivals into global attractions.”

Highlighting that India “possesses every potential” to build a strong winter tourism ecosystem, the Prime Minister said, “We have mountains, culture, and endless possibilities for adventure. I am delighted that these days, winter tourism in Uttarakhand is attracting a lot of people. Destinations like Auli, Munsyari, Chopta, and Deyara are gaining popularity during the winter season.”

He also referred to the state’s first High Altitude Ultra Run Marathon held at Adi Kailash in Pithoragarh district on November 2, at an altitude of over 14,500 feet.

“More than 750 athletes from 18 states across the country participated in it. The 60-kilometre-long ‘Adi Kailash Parikrama Run’ began at 5 a.m. in the biting cold. Despite such cold, the enthusiasm of the people was palpable. While fewer than 2,000 tourists visited Adi Kailash until three years ago, this number has now increased to over 30,000,” PM Modi said.

He further stated that Uttarakhand will host the Winter Games in the coming weeks, drawing athletes, adventure lovers, and sports enthusiasts from across India.

“Be it skiing or snowboarding, preparations for various snow-based sports have already begun. Uttarakhand has also focused on connectivity and infrastructure to promote winter tourism. A new policy has also been made regarding homestays,” he said.

The Prime Minister also mentioned the growing popularity of the ‘Wed in India’ trend during the winter months.

“Whether it’s the golden winter sun or the blanket of fog descending from the mountains, the hills are also becoming very popular for destination weddings. Many weddings are now being held, especially on the banks of Ganga ji,” he added.

Encouraging travellers to choose mountain destinations for the season, he said, “During these winter days, the Himalayan valleys become a part of an experience that lasts a lifetime. If you’re planning a trip this winter, be sure to keep the Himalayan valleys in mind.”(Agency)

Siddi community’s Shalina Sayer’s KIUG 2025 bronze celebrates inclusivity and identity

Bharatpur, Nov 30, 2025
The Khelo India Games once again demonstrated their commitment to inclusivity as Shalina Sayer Siddhi of Karnatak University, Dharwad, clinched her first medal at the Khelo India University Games (KIUG) on Friday. Competing in the women’s 57kg freestyle wrestling event at Lohagarh Stadium, Shalina secured bronze, an achievement that carries symbolic weight for the Siddi community she represents.

Shalina edged past Bhanu of Bhagat Phool Singh Mahila Vishwavidyalaya, Haryana, with a 2-1 victory in her final group bout to claim the medal.

The Siddi community, believed to have African roots, arrived in India centuries ago and has since become an integral part of the country’s social fabric. Many Siddis are recognised as Scheduled Tribes in several states. Against this backdrop, Shalina’s success stands out not just as a sporting accomplishment but as a testament to the opportunities provided by initiatives like Khelo India.

“I have participated in the Khelo India Youth Games. But this is my first Khelo India University Games. I had come with a lot of hope. I knew I would win a medal, though I was not sure what colour it would be. I am very happy to win the medal,” she said, sitting beside Ismail, who heads the Karnatak University contingent.

Her journey to the podium was far from easy. The team endured a three-day train journey to reach Rajasthan—a trip she described as challenging. “We came here by train, which took us three days. So, the journey was really arduous. But now that I have won, all that doesn’t matter. I would say it was worth all the effort,” said the wrestler, who has been training in the sport for a decade.

Shalina’s rise also brings attention to the social hurdles that athletes from marginalised communities often confront. While discrimination based on skin colour persists in many parts of India, Shalina said her personal experience has been different. “I live in Dharwad and I have grown up with local kids. I will be very honest, I have not had any such experiences,” she said. “In fact, I get respected a lot because of my sporting background. People see me as an achiever. My sister is also a police woman in Bangalore.”

During the conversation, Shalina introduced another successful athlete from the community, Pro Kabaddi League player Sushil Motesh Kambrekar of the Bengal Warriors. “Siddis are doing well. He is such a big inspiration to the entire community. I have never met him but I hope I make my name like him and make everyone proud,” she said.

With her bronze medal, Shalina not only adds to her growing list of achievements—having already won bronze at an All-India University competition earlier this year- but also strengthens the message of inclusivity that the Khelo India platform aims to amplify.(Agency)

Over 6000 Afghan refugees forcibly deported from Pakistan, Iran in single day

Kabul, Nov 30, 2025
More than 6000 Afghan refugees have been forcibly repatriated from Pakistan and Iran in a single day, a Taliban official said on Sunday, local media reported.

Sharing the High Commission for Addressing Migrants’ Issues report on X, Taliban Deputy Spokesperson Hamdullah Fitrat stated that 1,188 families, comprising 6,553 people, returned to Afghanistan on Saturday.

Afghan refugees entered Afghanistan through Torkham crossing in Nangarhar, Pul-i-Abresham in Nimroz, Spin Boldak in Kandahar, Bahramcha in Helmand and Islam Qala crossing in Herat, Pajhwok Afghan News reported.

Fitrat said that 1,260 families, comprising 8,102 people, were taken to their respective areas, while 780 families were provided humanitarian assistance.

In addition, telecommunication companies provided 1,294 SIM cards to Afghan refugees who were deported from Iran and Pakistan.

Nearly 1,332 Afghan refugees were forcibly repatriated from Pakistan and Iran on Friday.

Earlier this week, several Afghan migrants who recently returned to Afghanistan from Pakistan said that they are facing serious challenges ahead of the winter season. They raised concerns about a lack of shelter, the need for winter assistance, and difficulties in obtaining electronic ID cards (tazkira), the local media reported on Monday.

Abdul Baqi, one of the Afghan refugees who returned from Pakistan, stated, “Our main problem is that we have no shelter. When we return to the country, we don’t know where to go. We ask the Islamic Emirate to address our situation.”

They stated that the aid available is inadequate and mentioned that they still struggle to meet their basic living needs, Afghan media outlet Tolo News reported.

Afghan returnee, Abdul Bari, said, “Everyone knows most people are homeless, spending their days in the streets and along the roads.” Abdul Malik, a returnee, said that they are asked to apply for electronic ID cards when they reach their provinces and urged the authorities to provide them with ID cards.

Another Afghan refugee who returned from Pakistan, Abdul Qahar, urged the Taliban government to provide them with essential things like tents and shelter.(Agency)

‘Insightful, visionary’: Leaders laud PM Modi’s message in Mann Ki Baat

New Delhi, Nov 30, 2025
Leaders on Sunday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message in the 128th episode of his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’, highlighting its emphasis on self-reliance, indigenous products, and youth empowerment.

The episode focused mainly on the “Vocal for Local” campaign, India’s craftsmanship, and the nation’s vision for 2047.

Bihar Minister Dilip Jaiswal said the programme once again delivered valuable insights for citizens.

“Today’s Mann Ki Baat by the Prime Minister provided a great opportunity to understand, learn and gain insights,” he said, noting that the monthly broadcast continues to serve as a meaningful platform for public engagement.

BJP MLA Pankaj Singh emphasised the Prime Minister’s long-standing call for self-reliance as India works toward becoming a fully developed nation by 2047.

“The Prime Minister has always emphasised making our country self-reliant. By 2047, we aim to establish India as a developed nation. Naturally, we need to realise and utilise our own strengths and knowledge. For this, our country must become self-reliant. The Prime Minister has long urged people to adopt swadeshi products and to prioritise local goods. In line with this vision, he has repeatedly encouraged everyone to support being ‘vocal for local’,” Singh said.

Uttar Pradesh Minister Girish Chandra Yadav echoed similar sentiments, praising the motivational impact of the programme.

“Today we listened to Mann Ki Baat. The Prime Minister continuously encourages citizens to progress in every field and discusses issues that inspire people, helping build a self-reliant and developed India. The programme motivates us to achieve our goals and benefits the nation…”

Haryana Minister Anil Vij highlighted the Prime Minister’s focus on youth and sports in the latest episode.

“As every month, the Prime Minister interacts with the people of the country and discusses pressing issues, India’s achievements, and other important topics. Today, he spent more time talking about sports and players because he wants the youth of the country to channel their energy positively and strengthen the nation…” he said.

During the broadcast, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated his call to strengthen the “Vocal for Local” movement.

“I always urge you all to carry forward the mantra of ‘Vocal for Local’. Just a few days ago, during the G-20 Summit, when it came to presenting gifts to several world leaders, I reiterated this sentiment… In the gifts I presented to world leaders on behalf of my countrymen, this sentiment was carefully kept in mind.”

The Prime Minister also shared examples of local craftsmanship used in diplomatic exchanges.

“…I presented a brass urli to the Prime Minister of Australia. This is an exquisite craft from Mannar in Kerala… This year, as you shopped during the festivals, you may have noticed a clear preference for indigenous products…”

The 128th episode once again underlined the government’s push for self-reliant growth, cultural pride, and public participation, messages that leaders said continue to resonate strongly with citizens across the country.(Agency)

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