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India and the US discuss trade, energy, technology and defence as negotiations continue towards a bilateral trade agreement. MUMBAI, October 20: India and the United States have renewed efforts to advance their bilateral trade negotiations following talks between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in Mumbai on Tuesday. According to the Associated Press, the discussions covered trade, energy, technology, defence and regional developments. Rubio said the two countries were close to finalising an agreement, although several issues remained unresolved. The negotiations had faced difficulties over US tariffs on Indian goods and India's continued purchases of Russian oil. Both governments are seeking ways to strengthen economic cooperation while addressing outstanding differences. Rubio and Jaishankar also met United Arab Emirates Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan for discussions involving regional developments and energy security. The talks could have implications for exporters, manufacturers, technology companies and energy businesses in both countries. However, an agreement should not be considered final until the governments formally announce and publish its terms. News National Analysis: Businesses will be watching for details on tariff arrangements, market access and implementation timelines. The actual impact will depend on the provisions agreed by both governments.

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SWISS launches five weekly non-stop flights between Bengaluru and Zurich from October 28, 2026, expanding international connectivity for southern India. Five weekly flights to connect southern India directly with Switzerland, boosting business travel and international tourism BENGALURU, October 21, 2026: Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) will launch a new non-stop flight service between Bengaluru and Zurich on October 28, 2026, strengthening air connectivity between southern India and Switzerland. The new route will connect Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) in Bengaluru with Zurich Airport (ZRH), SWISS's main hub. The airline will operate five flights per week in each direction, giving passengers a direct option for travel between the two cities without an intermediate stop. The launch is part of the airline's 2026–27 winter schedule and marks SWISS's entry into Bengaluru, making the city its third destination in India after Delhi and Mumbai. The development is expected to offer additional travel options for business passengers, tourists and international travellers from Karnataka and neighbouring states. Bengaluru–Zurich Flight Schedule According to the airline's published schedule, the new service will operate under flight numbers LX141 and LX140. Flight details Schedule Airline Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) Route Bengaluru–Zurich Launch date October 28, 2026 Frequency Five times per week, each direction Flight LX141 Bengaluru to Zurich Departure 4:50 AM Arrival 10:50 AM, same day Flight LX140 Zurich to Bengaluru Departure 1:20 PM Arrival 2:55 AM the following day All times are local to the respective airports. The Bengaluru–Zurich service is scheduled for Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The return service from Zurich is scheduled for Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The scheduled journey takes approximately 10 hours and 35 minutes from Bengaluru to Zurich and around nine hours and five minutes in the return direction. Passengers should check the airline's booking system for date-specific timings and availability before travelling. Zurich to Provide Connections Across Europe and North America Zurich is a major international aviation hub and the principal hub of SWISS. Passengers arriving from Bengaluru will be able to explore onward connections to destinations across Europe and North America, subject to flight schedules and ticket availability. The new service could offer more convenient travel options for passengers heading to cities such as Paris, Amsterdam, Geneva and London, as well as selected destinations in North America. For travellers from southern India, the route may reduce the need to travel through other international hubs when flying to Switzerland. Passengers connecting to another flight should check minimum connection times, baggage arrangements and any transit requirements applicable to their itinerary. Potential Benefits for Bengaluru's Business Community Bengaluru is one of India's leading technology and innovation centres, with a substantial presence of multinational companies, technology firms, research institutions and startups. The direct flight is expected to provide another travel option for corporate executives, technology professionals and business delegations travelling between India and Europe. Direct connectivity can also help reduce the inconvenience of connecting flights and make travel planning easier for companies with international operations. The route may be particularly useful for businesses with commercial relationships in Switzerland and other European markets. SWISS has identified business demand, the technology sector and leisure travel as important markets for the new service. Opportunities for Tourism Switzerland is known for its Alpine landscapes, lakes, mountain railways, historic towns and outdoor tourism. The new route will offer travellers from southern India a direct air connection to Zurich, providing access to destinations across the country. Visitors can plan trips to Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken and other Swiss destinations using onward rail and road connections. The service may also appeal to Swiss and European tourists travelling to Bengaluru and other parts of southern India. However, travellers should compare flight fares, accommodation costs, seasonal conditions and onward transport options before finalising their itineraries. Visa Requirements for Indian Travellers Indian ordinary passport holders generally require a valid Schengen visa for short visits to Switzerland, unless an applicable exemption applies. Travellers should review the current visa requirements and documentation through the official Swiss authorities before applying. Visa processing times vary, so passengers are advised to begin the process well before their intended departure date. Official guidance is available from the Swiss authorities' visa information service for India. A New International Link for Southern India The Bengaluru–Zurich route adds another non-stop international service to Bengaluru's aviation network. By connecting the technology hub directly with Switzerland and providing onward connections through Zurich, the service is expected to expand travel choices for business and leisure passengers. The launch also reflects SWISS's expansion in the Indian market and the importance of Bengaluru as an international business and travel destination. Passengers planning to use the new service should confirm flight timings, fares, baggage rules and operating dates directly with the airline before booking. By News National Editorial Team Sources: SWISS official Bengaluru–Zurich route and timetable Lufthansa Group official announcement Swiss visa information for India

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Canada's proposed Leif Erikson cable could connect Norway to Labrador and Montreal, offering another route to Europe. Funding and approvals remain pending. Canada–Europe Undersea Cable: $620 Million Project Could Bypass US Routes By News National Editorial Team Canada could gain an alternative digital connection to Europe through a proposed transatlantic fibre-optic cable project designed to reduce reliance on routes passing through the United States. Norwegian infrastructure company Bulk Infrastructure is seeking Canadian investment and a majority Canadian owner for its proposed Leif Erikson cable project, which is estimated to cost more than US$620 million. The proposal would connect Norway with Labrador through an undersea cable and extend the network overland towards Montreal, creating another potential route for international data traffic between Canada and Europe. The project reflects growing interest in digital infrastructure that gives countries and businesses greater choice over how international data travels. However, the cable remains a proposal rather than an operational connection, and its progress depends on financing, commercial agreements and regulatory approvals. What Is the Leif Erikson Cable Project? The Leif Erikson project is a proposed transatlantic telecommunications link intended to connect European networks with Canada's digital infrastructure without relying on a route through the United States for the planned connection. According to project descriptions, the undersea cable would run from Norway across the Atlantic Ocean to the Happy Valley–Goose Bay area of Labrador, in Canada's province of Newfoundland and Labrador. A terrestrial fibre-optic route would then carry the connection through Quebec towards Montreal. The planned system would combine subsea infrastructure with a land-based network, potentially providing telecommunications companies, data centres and other large users with an additional international connection. Unlike conventional internet cables that connect multiple countries and network hubs, the significance of this proposal lies in the specific route it seeks to establish between northern Europe and eastern Canada. Why Does Canada Want an Alternative Route to Europe? International internet traffic moves through interconnected fibre-optic networks, including submarine cables that carry enormous volumes of data between continents. These systems support cloud computing, online banking, business communications, digital services and many other essential activities. Canada already has international connectivity, including routes linking it with the United States and Europe. The proposed Leif Erikson cable would add another potential option rather than replace existing infrastructure. An additional route could help diversify Canada's international connectivity and reduce dependence on particular network corridors. It could also offer telecommunications providers more choices when planning data traffic and managing network resilience. However, an alternative cable would not automatically eliminate all dependence on US-based networks. The actual route taken by data would depend on how telecommunications providers configure their networks, the services purchased and the locations of connected infrastructure. How Could the Project Support AI and Data Centres? Demand for international data capacity is increasing as businesses expand their use of cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), digital platforms and data-intensive applications. AI systems and cloud services depend on reliable connections between data centres, computing facilities and customers. International fibre-optic links form part of the infrastructure supporting those connections. A direct Canada–Europe cable could provide additional capacity and routing options if it attracts sufficient commercial demand. It may also be relevant to companies seeking greater diversity in their international network connections. Nevertheless, the project’s actual performance, capacity, latency and commercial pricing will depend on its final technical design and operating arrangements. These details should not be assumed to be confirmed while the project remains in development. A Project Estimated to Cost More Than US$620 Million Building a transatlantic cable requires substantial investment in marine surveys, cable manufacturing, installation vessels, landing facilities and terrestrial fibre connections. Long-term maintenance and network operations also add to the cost. Bulk Infrastructure is seeking Canadian participation, including a majority Canadian owner, to help advance the proposed project. Securing a Canadian investment partner could support financing and help establish commercial relationships with telecommunications operators and other potential customers. However, the project also needs sufficient demand to justify the investment. The estimated cost exceeds US$620 million, but the proposal's financial structure, final funding commitments and construction timetable must be confirmed through official project announcements. Funding, Approvals and Customers Remain Key Challenges Several important steps remain before the Leif Erikson project could become operational. First, the developers must secure the necessary capital and establish a workable ownership structure. They must also attract customers willing to purchase capacity or otherwise support the network commercially. Second, the project will require relevant regulatory and environmental approvals, including those associated with the marine route, cable landing locations and terrestrial infrastructure. Depending on the final design, consultations with affected communities and other stakeholders may also be required. Third, the developers must complete technical planning and establish a construction and maintenance strategy. Submarine cable projects can face challenges related to ocean conditions, installation logistics, repair costs and coordination across jurisdictions. Until these requirements are addressed, the proposed cable should not be described as fully funded, approved or under construction. What Would the Cable Mean for Canada and Europe? If completed, the Leif Erikson system could give Canada an additional route to European digital networks and increase the diversity of its international connectivity options. For telecommunications providers, additional infrastructure can create more flexibility in network planning. For businesses and data-centre operators, a new route could offer another option for connecting facilities across the Atlantic. The wider significance lies in the growing strategic importance of digital infrastructure. Submarine cables are essential to the global economy, carrying international data that supports commerce, research, communications and digital public services. However, the benefits of the proposed connection would depend on its final design, available capacity, commercial adoption and integration with existing networks. Bulk Infrastructure's Leif Erikson project proposes a new transatlantic fibre-optic route linking Norway with Labrador and extending towards Montreal. With an estimated cost exceeding US$620 million, the plan aims to offer Canada another option for connecting with Europe without routing the planned connection through the United States. The proposal highlights growing interest in resilient and diversified digital infrastructure. Its next major milestones will be securing Canadian investment, obtaining the required approvals and attracting customers. For now, the project remains a proposed connection—not a completed cable or a confirmed federal investment. Sources for editorial verification: Bulk Infrastructure's official fibre-network information and published reporting on the Leif Erikson proposal. Editorial disclaimer: Project details and estimated costs are based on publicly reported proposals. News National has not independently verified that all financing, approvals or construction arrangements have been secured. image: A 4,200km undersea cable promises to deliver vast amounts of clean energy to Singapore. (Image: Sun Cable via Nanyang Technological University)

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China has opened Origin Pilot for public download. Learn about its quantum computing features, free Community Edition and what the release means. China Opens Origin Pilot Quantum Computing Operating System for Free Public Download Origin Quantum makes its quantum-computer management platform available to developers worldwide, marking a new step in quantum software accessibility BEIJING, October 21, 2026: China has opened its Origin Pilot quantum computing operating system for public download, giving researchers, developers and universities around the world an opportunity to explore software designed to manage and coordinate quantum computing systems. Developed by Hefei-based Origin Quantum Computing Technology Co., Ltd., Origin Pilot was first introduced in 2021. The company announced public online downloads in February 2026, making the platform more accessible to the global research and development community. The announcement has attracted attention because quantum computing remains a highly specialised field, with much of its development dependent on sophisticated hardware, advanced scientific expertise and access to expensive research infrastructure. However, the release does not mean that everyone who downloads the software automatically receives free access to a physical quantum computer. What Is Origin Pilot? Origin Pilot is a quantum computer operating system designed to coordinate hardware resources, schedule computing jobs and manage interactions between quantum processors and conventional computing systems. Unlike Windows or Linux, which manage everyday computers, a quantum computing operating system must address the specific requirements of quantum processors, including the management of qubits, calibration procedures and the scheduling of quantum workloads. Origin Quantum describes Origin Pilot as a central management platform that connects quantum hardware, programming tools and computing resources. It is deployed on the company's Origin Wukong series of quantum computers. According to the company's technical description, the system supports multiple quantum computing architectures, including superconducting processors, trapped-ion systems and neutral-atom technologies. The objective is to make quantum computing resources easier to manage and use through a more unified software environment. Why Is the Public Download Significant? Quantum computing has traditionally required specialised equipment, technical expertise and access to research facilities. Making an operating system available for download can lower one barrier to studying how quantum computing infrastructure is managed. The public release could help universities, researchers and software developers examine the platform, understand its architecture and explore its programming interfaces. It may also encourage experimentation with quantum-classical computing workflows, in which conventional computers handle some tasks while quantum processors perform specialised operations. The announcement is significant because it expands access to a component of quantum computing infrastructure that has generally been developed and deployed within specialised systems. Origin Quantum says the release is intended to make its independently developed technology more accessible to research institutions, educational organisations and developers worldwide. Five Important Capabilities of Origin Pilot 1. Quantum task scheduling Quantum computers may need to process jobs from multiple users or applications. Origin Pilot helps organise these jobs and allocate available computing resources. Efficient scheduling is important because quantum processors are complex and costly systems, and researchers need to use their available processing time effectively. 2. Automatic qubit calibration Qubits are the fundamental units of quantum information. Their behaviour can be affected by noise and changes in operating conditions. Origin Pilot includes automatic calibration capabilities intended to help maintain processor performance and manage quantum resources. The effectiveness of calibration depends on the hardware, implementation and operating environment. 3. Parallel execution of quantum tasks The platform supports the scheduling and parallel execution of quantum programs where the available processor architecture and system configuration permit it. This can help improve resource utilisation by coordinating multiple tasks rather than treating every job as an entirely isolated operation. 4. Support for different quantum hardware architectures Origin Quantum says Origin Pilot supports several major approaches to building quantum processors, including superconducting circuits, trapped ions and neutral atoms. Compatibility with different architectures is important because no single quantum hardware technology has emerged as the universal solution for every computing problem. Actual compatibility depends on the available hardware interfaces, drivers and system configuration. 5. Integration with conventional computing Quantum processors do not replace conventional computers. Many quantum applications require classical computing for data preparation, control, optimisation and result analysis. Origin Pilot is designed to coordinate quantum tasks with conventional computing resources, supporting hybrid computing workflows. This integration is important as researchers investigate potential applications in scientific research, optimisation, materials science and other specialised areas. Is Origin Pilot Really Free for Everyone? Origin Quantum provides a Community Edition for free download, alongside a separate Enterprise Edition. The free Community Edition makes the software more accessible for learning, research and experimentation. However, users should review the applicable licence terms, technical requirements and feature limitations before deploying it. Free software access does not mean free access to all quantum computing hardware. Running the system on a physical quantum processor may require compatible equipment, specialised infrastructure, configuration and access permissions. Enterprise services and professional support may also be subject to separate commercial arrangements. Therefore, the most accurate interpretation is that Origin Pilot is available for public download, with a free Community Edition, rather than that anyone can obtain unrestricted quantum computing power at no cost. Developers can find product information through the official Origin Pilot website. Does This Mean China Has Invented the World's First Quantum Operating System? The distinction between developing a quantum operating system and making one available for public download is important. Origin Pilot was introduced in 2021, several years before the February 2026 public-download announcement. Origin Quantum describes it as China's first quantum computer operating system. The 2026 announcement focused on opening the platform for online download and broader use. Chinese reports characterised the move as a first for publicly downloadable, locally deployable quantum operating system software. That claim should not be expanded into saying that China invented the first quantum computing software of any kind. Quantum programming frameworks, simulators, control systems and research software have been developed internationally for years. For example, IBM's Qiskit is a widely used open-source quantum software development framework, while Google's Cirq is another established quantum programming framework. These are not identical to a complete operating system for managing quantum computer hardware, so comparisons require careful definitions. The significance of Origin Pilot lies in its operating and resource-management role, combined with the decision to make the platform available for public download. What Could This Mean for the Future of Quantum Computing? Greater access to quantum software could encourage more researchers and developers to investigate the systems needed to operate quantum computers. Universities may be able to use the platform as a reference for studying quantum resource management. Developers may explore its programming interfaces, while research institutions may investigate how quantum processors can work alongside conventional computing infrastructure. Nevertheless, making an operating system publicly available does not by itself solve the major challenges facing quantum computing. Hardware reliability, error correction, scalability, operating costs and the development of useful applications remain important research challenges. Quantum computers also do not automatically outperform conventional computers. Their advantages depend on the specific problem, the algorithm and the capabilities of the available hardware. China's decision to make Origin Pilot available for public download represents a notable development in quantum computing software accessibility. The platform provides tools for managing quantum resources, scheduling jobs, supporting calibration and coordinating quantum processors with conventional computing systems. Its free Community Edition may offer researchers and developers a practical opportunity to explore these capabilities. The broader impact will depend on how accessible the software proves to be, how easily developers can use it and whether it helps expand the global quantum computing ecosystem. For now, the announcement is best understood as an effort to broaden access to quantum computer operating software—not as a promise of free quantum hardware or a sudden breakthrough that makes quantum computing universally available. By News National Editorial Team Sources Origin Pilot — Official product information Origin Quantum — Official announcement and download information Xinhua report on the public release Origin Pilot technical research paper, published in 2021

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Indian para-athletes win medals in athletics, shooting and table tennis at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Para Games in Japan. AICHI-NAGOYA, Japan, October 20: Indian para-athletes continued their medal-winning campaign at the 2026 Asian Para Games, delivering notable performances in athletics, shooting and para table tennis. Official updates published by India's Press Information Bureau on Tuesday listed congratulations from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to several Indian medal winners, including athletics gold medallist Deepthi Jeevanji and multiple medal-winning competitors in other events. Deepthi secured gold in the women's 400-metre T20 event, setting a Games record, according to published competition reports. Simran Sharma also won gold in the women's 200-metre T12 event, establishing a new Games record. Indian athletes earned additional medals in shooting, powerlifting, swimming and table tennis. The performances demonstrate the breadth of India's participation across para-sports disciplines. Competitors from different classification categories are representing the country in events designed to accommodate varying physical and visual impairments. The Games are being held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from October 18 to 24. India's contingent is competing across a broad programme that includes athletics, archery, badminton, shooting, swimming and other sports. Sources: Press Information Bureau | Official Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Games website

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Andhra Pradesh's State Election Commission reviews security and administrative arrangements for MPTC and ZPTC elections. VIJAYAWADA, October 20: Preparations for local body elections have intensified in Andhra Pradesh following the issuance of an election notification for Mandal Parishad Territorial Constituencies (MPTCs) and Zilla Parishad Territorial Constituencies (ZPTCs). The New Indian Express reported that polling is planned for 659 ZPTC seats across 28 district-level parishads and 9,829 MPTC seats across 659 mandal-level parishads. State Election Commissioner Anil Chandra Punetha announced the schedule-related development on Monday. The State Election Commission has also reviewed arrangements with district collectors, police officials and election observers. Officials have been instructed to maintain coordination, monitor developments at the local level and respond promptly to complaints or operational problems. The electoral process is expected to involve extensive administrative preparation because of the number of constituencies and polling arrangements required across the state. Separate legal proceedings concerning electoral rolls have also affected the political debate surrounding the polls. The final applicable voter lists and election instructions should therefore be checked against the latest orders issued by the State Election Commission and courts. News National Analysis: The key issues to monitor include nomination access, candidate security, voter-list accuracy and the implementation of election rules. Claims made by political parties about intimidation or irregularities should be reported with attribution and checked against official responses. Source: The New Indian Express — Andhra Pradesh election notification

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Lakshadweep Moves e-Permit Services to New Portal KAVARATTI, October 20: Lakshadweep has announced a change to its online permit system, with all e-Permit services scheduled to be available through a new portal from October 15, according to the Union Territory administration's official website. The announcement, published on October 14, is relevant to residents, visitors and other applicants who use online permit services. Users should access the new portal through the official Lakshadweep government website rather than relying on links circulated through unverified messages or third-party websites. Applicants should check the current instructions, eligibility requirements and supporting documents before submitting an application. Anyone with a pending request should verify whether it requires any additional action under the updated system. The administration's website also lists other public notices, including consultations on a draft fisheries and mariculture policy and notifications related to proposed solar power projects on islands. Those are separate matters and should not be confused with the e-Permit change. Users experiencing access problems should contact the relevant government department through official channels. The announcement confirms the portal transition, but applicants should verify the current status and procedures directly before relying on the service. Source: Official Lakshadweep Administration — What's New

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Umeed Global Schoolలో 2027–2028 విద్యా సంవత్సరానికి అడ్మిషన్లు. ఆన్‌లైన్ దరఖాస్తు విధానం, చివరి తేదీ, అధికారిక వెబ్‌సైట్ వివరాలు తెలుసుకోండి. By News National Editorial Team 2027–2028 విద్యా సంవత్సరానికి సంబంధించి Umeed Global Schoolలో ప్రవేశాల కోసం దరఖాస్తులు ఆహ్వానిస్తున్నారు. పాఠశాలలో ప్రవేశం పొందాలనుకునే విద్యార్థుల తల్లిదండ్రులు ఆన్‌లైన్ ద్వారా దరఖాస్తు చేసుకోవచ్చు. అందించిన సమాచారం ప్రకారం, దరఖాస్తులకు చివరి తేదీ నవంబర్ 15. ఆన్‌లైన్‌లో దరఖాస్తు చేసుకోవచ్చు పాఠశాల ప్రవేశ ప్రక్రియకు సంబంధించిన వివరాలు, దరఖాస్తు విధానం తెలుసుకోవడానికి తల్లిదండ్రులు Umeed Global School అధికారిక అడ్మిషన్ వెబ్‌పేజీని సందర్శించవచ్చు. అడ్మిషన్ల వివరాలు: విద్యా సంవత్సరం: 2027–2028 దరఖాస్తు విధానం: ఆన్‌లైన్ చివరి తేదీ: నవంబర్ 15, 2026 (అందించిన సమాచారంలో పేర్కొన్న తేదీ) దరఖాస్తు వెబ్‌సైట్: https://umeed.org.in/admission-process/ దరఖాస్తు ఎలా చేయాలి? ముందుగా Umeed Global School అడ్మిషన్ వెబ్‌పేజీను సందర్శించండి. ప్రవేశ అర్హతలు, అందుబాటులో ఉన్న తరగతులు, అవసరమైన పత్రాల వివరాలను పరిశీలించండి. ఆన్‌లైన్ దరఖాస్తు ఫారమ్ అందుబాటులో ఉంటే, అందులో అడిగిన వివరాలను నమోదు చేయండి. దరఖాస్తు సమర్పించే ముందు వివరాలను సరిచూసుకోండి. దరఖాస్తు సమర్పణ, ఫీజులు, ఎంపిక ప్రక్రియకు సంబంధించిన సూచనలను పాఠశాల అధికారిక వెబ్‌సైట్‌లో పరిశీలించండి. తల్లిదండ్రులకు సూచన దరఖాస్తు చేయడానికి ముందు చివరి తేదీ, ప్రవేశ అర్హతలు, అవసరమైన ధ్రువపత్రాలు, ఫీజులు, ప్రవేశ ప్రక్రియకు సంబంధించిన తాజా వివరాలను పాఠశాల అధికారిక వెబ్‌సైట్‌లో నిర్ధారించుకోవాలి  

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China’s Origin Pilot, a quantum computer operating system, has a free Community Edition anyone  https://www.facebook.com/reel/1726489831765025

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Dr. Abdul Qadeer of Shaheen Group of Institutions meets Khan Sir in Dubai on Sir Syed Day, highlighting student counselling and career planning. By News National Editorial Team DUBAI: An important meeting between Dr. Abdul Qadeer, Chairman of Shaheen Group of Institutions, and Khan Sir, founder of Khan Global Studies and a popular educator and mentor from Patna, Bihar, took place in Dubai on the occasion of Sir Syed Day. The meeting brought together two prominent figures associated with education, student guidance and academic development. Their interaction highlighted the importance of student counselling, career planning and helping young people make informed decisions about their educational and professional futures. Focus on Student Counselling and Career Guidance Student counselling plays an important role in helping learners identify their interests, understand their strengths and choose suitable academic pathways. Effective career planning can also help students evaluate educational opportunities, competitive examinations and potential career options. Educators and mentors can support students by providing guidance on subject selection, study strategies, examination preparation and long-term professional goals. The meeting between Dr. Abdul Qadeer and Khan Sir provided an opportunity to bring attention to these important aspects of education. However, specific discussions or decisions made during their interaction have not been independently confirmed. Educational Leadership and Mentorship Dr. Abdul Qadeer is associated with Shaheen Group of Institutions, an educational organisation known for its work in academic development and student support. Khan Sir, who founded Khan Global Studies in Patna, Bihar, has gained recognition for his teaching and educational content, particularly among students preparing for competitive examinations. Their meeting during Sir Syed Day brought together different educational experiences and perspectives, highlighting the wider role of educators in supporting students and encouraging academic progress. Remembering Sir Syed Ahmad Khan Sir Syed Day commemorates Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, the education reformer who played a significant role in promoting modern education among Indian Muslims during the nineteenth century. His educational vision contributed to the development of the Aligarh movement and the institution that later became Aligarh Muslim University. The occasion serves as a reminder of the importance of education, scientific thinking, access to learning and the empowerment of young people through knowledge. The meeting in Dubai offered an opportunity to reflect on these educational ideals and the continuing importance of student mentorship and career guidance. Encouraging Informed Career Decisions As students face an increasingly diverse range of educational and professional opportunities, access to reliable counselling and mentorship remains important. Guidance from experienced educators can help young people assess their abilities, explore career choices and prepare for future challenges. Although further details about the Dubai meeting have not been confirmed, the interaction between Dr. Abdul Qadeer and Khan Sir drew attention to student counselling and career planning as important elements of educational development.

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Incredible India Pavilion Inaugurated at ITB Asia 2026 in Singapore to Promote Indian Tourism By News National Editorial Team SINGAPORE, October 21, 2026: India’s tourism potential took centre stage at ITB Asia 2026 in Singapore with the inauguration of the Incredible India Pavilion. The pavilion was jointly inaugurated by India’s High Commissioner to Singapore, Dr. Shilpak Ambule, Jammu and Kashmir Minister Sakeena Itoo, and Kerala Tourism and Culture Minister P. C. Vishnunadh, according to media reports.  The initiative aims to showcase India’s rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, historical attractions and distinctive travel experiences to international tourism professionals. The pavilion also provides a platform for Indian tourism stakeholders to connect with overseas tour operators, travel agencies and industry representatives. India Showcases Its Diverse Tourism Potential The Incredible India Pavilion highlights the variety of experiences available to travellers, ranging from cultural and heritage tourism to adventure travel, pilgrimage destinations, wellness experiences and nature-based tourism. India’s geographical diversity offers visitors opportunities to explore Himalayan landscapes, coastal destinations, historic cities, wildlife reserves and culturally significant sites. The pavilion aims to strengthen international awareness of these attractions and encourage travel businesses to include Indian destinations in their tourism packages. Participation in international travel exhibitions allows tourism representatives to present destination-specific experiences and establish commercial relationships with overseas partners. Jammu and Kashmir and Kerala in the Spotlight The participation of representatives from Jammu and Kashmir and Kerala highlights the importance of promoting tourism across India's different regions. Jammu and Kashmir offers opportunities for mountain tourism, pilgrimage travel, cultural exploration and adventure activities. During ITB Asia 2026, Minister Sakeena Itoo invited international tour operators and travel agencies to consider including Jammu and Kashmir destinations in their travel packages.  Kerala is widely known for its backwaters, beaches, hill stations, cultural traditions and wellness tourism offerings. Its participation provides an opportunity to introduce the state's attractions to international travel professionals and explore potential tourism partnerships. The involvement of state representatives also allows India to present its destinations as complementary experiences for international visitors rather than promoting the country through a single tourism product. ITB Asia 2026: A Major International Tourism Marketplace ITB Asia 2026 is being held at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore from October 21 to 23. The event brings together tourism boards, travel companies, hotels, tour operators, travel technology providers and other industry professionals from international markets.  The business-to-business exhibition creates opportunities for industry participants to arrange meetings, explore commercial partnerships and discuss changing traveller preferences. For Indian tourism organisations, the event offers a platform to develop overseas business relationships and promote destinations to travel professionals who influence holiday planning and tourism packages. Strengthening International Tourism Partnerships The Incredible India Pavilion reflects India's continued efforts to increase the visibility of its tourism offerings in international markets. Building partnerships with overseas travel companies can help Indian destinations reach new audiences, develop travel itineraries and encourage visitors to explore different regions of the country. Such engagement may also create opportunities for hotels, tour operators, transport providers and local tourism businesses. However, the inauguration of the pavilion does not in itself confirm any specific increase in tourist arrivals or new commercial agreements. The longer-term impact will depend on the partnerships developed, marketing initiatives and subsequent travel demand. Promoting India as a Preferred Travel Destination India's tourism appeal lies in the variety of experiences it offers, including ancient monuments, religious destinations, regional cuisines, traditional arts, wildlife and natural landscapes. By presenting these attractions at an international travel trade exhibition, the Incredible India Pavilion seeks to strengthen the country's profile among global tourism professionals and encourage further engagement with Indian destinations. The participation of national and state-level representatives underlines the importance of cooperation between tourism authorities and the travel industry in promoting India internationally. As ITB Asia 2026 continues in Singapore, the pavilion provides a platform for showcasing India's tourism diversity and exploring opportunities to expand international travel partnerships. Sources: ITB Asia official website; Kashmir News Service; Brighter Kashmir, reports published on October 21, 2026.

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Telangana faces a rainfall shortfall, with meteorologists saying the Northeast Monsoon may bring limited relief depending on weather systems. HYDERABAD, October 20: Telangana is unlikely to receive widespread rainfall from the Northeast Monsoon unless favourable weather systems develop, according to a report published by The New Indian Express on Tuesday. Data attributed to the Telangana State Development Planning Society (TSDPS) showed that the state received 615.8 millimetres of rainfall between June 1 and October 15, compared with a normal 795.7 millimetres. This represented a deficit of approximately 23 per cent during the period. Hyderabad recorded a larger shortfall. The report said the city received 458.5 millimetres against a normal 700.2 millimetres, amounting to a deficit of about 35 per cent. The Northeast Monsoon has begun over parts of southern India, including neighbouring regions of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. However, the arrival of the monsoon in nearby states does not automatically guarantee substantial rainfall in Telangana. Meteorologists say rainfall prospects will depend on the movement of weather systems, moisture availability and the formation of low-pressure areas or cyclonic circulations. The shortfall could remain a concern for agriculture, water management and rural livelihoods if significant rainfall does not materialise. The eventual impact will depend on rainfall distribution and local water-storage conditions. News National Analysis: Residents and farmers should follow official district forecasts and government advisories. The reported figures cover a defined period and should not be mistaken for the state's final annual rainfall total. Source: The New Indian Express — Telangana rainfall outlook

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