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    Modi unveils free coaching and AI training plan to…

    ByJustpaste.in

    NEW DELHI: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a major education and skills initiative aimed at addressing growing concerns among young people over employment, competitive exams and the rising cost of education. Speaking at India’s Independence Day ceremony at the Red Fort, Modi said the government would offer free online coaching for a range of competitive examinations. He said the programme would help reduce the financial pressure on families whose children spend years preparing for highly competitive entrance and recruitment tests. The announcement follows nationwide youth protests sparked by allegations of examination paper leaks and recruitment irregularities. The demonstrations intensified pressure on the government and contributed to the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan last month. Modi also announced an ambitious artificial intelligence skills programme, saying 10 million young Indians would receive AI-related training over the next year. The government hopes the initiative will equip young people with skills needed in a rapidly changing job market. India’s competitive education system has created a large private coaching industry, with many families spending heavily on preparation courses. Modi said free digital coaching would allow students to remain with their families while reducing the financial burden associated with preparation. During his speech, Modi also outlined a broader seven-point development and reform agenda covering manufacturing, agriculture, technology, defence and sectors linked to India’s cultural influence. He reiterated his goal of transforming India into a developed economy within the next two decades. The prime minister also announced plans for additional semiconductor facilities and nuclear reactors, with the government seeking to expand domestic manufacturing and energy capacity. Modi said India’s young population would be central to achieving the country’s development ambitions, describing youth as the biggest potential beneficiaries of a more prosperous and developed India.

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    Gold prices edge lower in Pakistan as global rates decline

    ByJustpaste.in

    KARACHI: Gold prices recorded a modest decline in Pakistan on Saturday, with the domestic market following a slight downward movement in international bullion rates. According to data released by the All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewellers Association, the price of gold fell by Rs500 per tola, bringing the price to Rs459,936 per tola. The association reported a corresponding decline in the price of 10 grams of gold. The rate for 10 grams was reduced by Rs429, settling at Rs394,320. The decrease in domestic gold prices came as international bullion rates also moved lower. In the global market, gold fell by $5 per ounce to $4,375 per ounce. Market participants closely monitor international gold prices, currency movements and domestic demand when determining bullion rates in Pakistan. Changes in the international market can have a direct impact on local prices, particularly when combined with fluctuations in the exchange rate. Gold remains a popular investment and savings instrument in Pakistan, where consumers and investors closely track daily changes in bullion prices. Jewellery demand, inflation expectations and movements in global financial markets can also influence local buying and selling activity. The latest reduction, however, was relatively limited, indicating that the domestic bullion market remained broadly stable despite the decline in international prices.

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    ‘Patriotism has no single definition’: CJP lea…

    ByJustpaste.in

    NEW DELHI: Abhijeet Deepke, leader of India’s Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), has criticised the Indian government after being labelled a national security threat, saying patriotism should not be defined according to the government’s expectations. Speaking in an interview with an American television channel, Deepke said he considered himself a patriot but rejected the idea that citizens must demonstrate their patriotism in a particular way prescribed by the authorities. Deepke said he was deeply disappointed by the government’s decision to portray him as a threat to national security after he spoke out against the system and established the CJP. He had been living in the United States as an Indian student while holding an Indian passport. The CJP leader said he had decided to return to India from the United States, describing the move as an opportunity to demonstrate his commitment to the country and challenge the allegations made against him. His remarks come amid heightened political tensions surrounding youth-led protests and growing criticism of the government over its handling of dissent and political opposition.

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    Weekly inflation rises 0.15% in second week of August

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: Weekly inflation increased by 0.15% during the second week of August 2026, pushing the year-on-year inflation rate to 9.11%, according to the latest data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). The weekly Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI), which tracks changes in the prices of essential consumer goods, showed a mixed trend during the week. Prices of several food and household items increased, while consumers received some relief from lower prices of petroleum products and selected food commodities. According to the PBS report, prices of 20 out of 51 essential commodities increased during the week under review, while prices of nine items declined. The prices of the remaining 22 commodities remained unchanged. Onion prices surge sharply Among the major price increases, onions recorded the most significant weekly jump, becoming 24.68% more expensive compared with the previous week. The increase is likely to add further pressure on household food budgets, particularly for low-income consumers who are more exposed to fluctuations in basic food prices. The price of gram pulse increased by 3.35%, while chicken became 2.45% more expensive during the week. LPG prices also edged up by 0.67%. Other commodities that recorded weekly price increases included tea, mustard oil, yoghurt and masoor pulse, adding to the overall upward movement in the weekly inflation indicator. Petroleum prices provide some relief The weekly inflation reading was partly offset by declines in the prices of petroleum and several food items. Petrol prices decreased by 2.35% during the week, providing some relief to consumers and transport users. Tomato prices fell by 1.26%, while potatoes became 0.73% cheaper. Diesel prices also declined, though marginally, by 0.29%. Prices of bananas, moong pulse, eggs and sugar also recorded weekly decreases. Despite these reductions, the increase in the prices of several essential food items, particularly onions, pulses and chicken, kept overall weekly inflation in positive territory. Food prices remain major source of annual pressure The year-on-year comparison presents a more pronounced picture of price pressures in several essential commodities. Tomatoes recorded the largest annual increase, with prices rising by 143.77% compared with the same period last year. Onion prices were 125.75% higher, while wheat flour became 77.41% more expensive. LPG prices increased by 55.41% on an annual basis, while diesel recorded a 34.05% increase. Petrol prices were also 23.02% higher than a year earlier. The sharp annual increases in basic food items indicate that consumers continue to face significant pressure in meeting everyday household expenses, even though some commodities have become cheaper compared with last year. Several commodities become cheaper annually The annual data also showed declines in the prices of a number of commodities. Potato prices dropped by 30% compared with a year earlier, marking the largest annual decline among the commodities listed in the report. Sugar prices fell by 17.93%, while chicken became 17.45% cheaper on an annual basis. Gram pulse, eggs and moong pulse also recorded year-on-year declines. The contrasting movements highlight the uneven nature of inflation, with some essential commodities witnessing substantial annual increases while others have recorded notable reductions. The latest PBS figures suggest that although overall inflation remains elevated, price movements continue to vary considerably across different categories. Food, energy and other essential commodities remain key factors influencing household expenditure and the broader cost-of-living situation.

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    Five killed in Michigan shooting as suspect found …

    ByJustpaste.in

    MICHIGAN: Five people were killed in a shooting in northern Michigan on Friday, while a suspected gunman was later found dead after police launched a manhunt, authorities said. Michigan State Police said troopers were dispatched at around 11:40am to a home in Missaukee County following reports of gunfire. Officers arriving at the scene discovered three people dead and a fourth victim seriously wounded. The injured person was taken to hospital and remained in critical condition, police said. Investigators identified the suspected shooter as 39-year-old Chad Hickman, who allegedly fled the area before officers arrived. His disappearance triggered an extensive search across the surrounding area as law enforcement teams worked to locate him. During the manhunt, investigators discovered another deceased victim at a second residence, bringing the reported death toll to five. Police later found Hickman’s vehicle near a wooded area close to Whitlock Lake. When officers searched the area, they found Hickman and another person dead, according to the state police statement. Authorities have not yet provided details about how Hickman or the other person died, and the circumstances surrounding the additional death remain under investigation. “This situation is heartbreaking for the community and challenging for the investigators involved,” Lieutenant Ashley Miller said in a statement cited by police. Police have withheld the names, ages and genders of the victims while officials work to notify their next of kin. The incident has left the northern Michigan community shaken as investigators continue examining the shooting, the second residence and the circumstances that led to the suspect’s death. Authorities are expected to release further information as the investigation progresses.

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    Disney unveils new Marvel and animated film lineup

    ByJustpaste.in

    Disney has unveiled a major slate of upcoming films and television projects at its D23 fan event in Anaheim, California, with the new “X-Men” movie among the biggest announcements. Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige introduced the cast of the highly anticipated superhero film, which is scheduled to hit cinemas in May 2028. The new cast includes Sadie Sink as Jean Grey, Kit Connor as Cyclops, Christopher Abbott as Professor X, Inde Navarrette as Rogue and Maya Boyd as Storm. Adam Driver will play Nathaniel Milbury, better known as the Marvel villain Mr Sinister. The announcement was one of the most anticipated moments of Disney’s biennial showcase, where the entertainment giant presents upcoming projects across film and television. Disney also offered fans an early glimpse of “Frozen 3,” which is expected to arrive in cinemas in November 2027. The story will continue Anna and Elsa’s journey, with Anna preparing for her marriage. Preview footage also introduced a mysterious female villain, although Disney has yet to reveal her identity or the actor providing her voice. Kristen Bell and Idina Menzel, who voice Anna and Elsa respectively, performed a new version of “Frozen Heart” during the event. Josh Gad, the voice of Olaf, also introduced a new song for the beloved snowman. The studio further showcased “Star Wars: Starfighter,” featuring Ryan Gosling. The film is among Disney’s upcoming major projects and is being developed alongside other high-profile productions. Marvel’s Disney+ lineup also received attention with “VisionQuest,” a new miniseries created by Terry Matalas. The series will premiere on October 14 and will feature Paul Bettany returning as Vision. James Spader will also reprise his role as Ultron. Pixar added several major titles to the presentation. Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter confirmed that “Incredibles 3” is planned for summer 2028. The Parr family will return for another superhero adventure, this time confronting a powerful new enemy. Disney also revealed further details about “Coco 2,” set for release in November 2029. The sequel will take place years after the original film, with Miguel now a teenager. Benjamin Bratt is expected to return as Ernesto de la Cruz, whose character will seek revenge and draw Miguel back into the world of the dead. Another major announcement involved the popular “Kingdom Hearts” video game franchise. Disney confirmed that an animated series based on the games is in development. The event also featured footage of Sora exploring a world inspired by Pixar’s “Coco.” Disney and Square Enix are developing the fourth “Kingdom Hearts” game, which is expected to expand the franchise with new animated worlds.

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    Sindh to launch facial recognition attendance syst…

    ByJustpaste.in

    KARACHI: The Sindh government is set to introduce a facial recognition-based attendance system in government schools across six districts from August 17, aiming to strengthen staff monitoring and improve teacher availability for students. The Facial Recognition Attendance Monitoring and Evaluation System (FRAMES) will initially be launched as a pilot project, with one district selected from each division. The system will monitor attendance of both teaching and non-teaching staff through a digital mobile application. The pilot phase will cover Karachi East, Hyderabad, Naushehro Feroze, Jacobabad, Ghotki and Umerkot, with attendance of around 49,565 employees to be monitored through the system. Sindh Education Minister Syed Sardar Ali Shah said the initiative would gradually be expanded to all districts if the pilot proves successful. He said the application had been designed to be user-friendly, while a mechanism had also been established to identify and resolve technical issues promptly. The minister said FRAMES was not merely an attendance tool but was intended to ensure students have access to teachers during school hours. Staff members will be able to record attendance using their own phones or those of a headmaster or colleague. The system will also function without an internet connection, with attendance data automatically updated once connectivity becomes available. Teachers will be required to record both their arrival and departure from school. Employees will be able to view their attendance records through the application and download monthly reports. The system will also allow teachers to submit leave requests online from home, with approvals processed digitally. Training for education officials, school heads and teachers has been completed to ensure smooth implementation. The government has also provided special training to school heads to assist staff in using the system. FRAMES is available on both Android and Apple devices, while employees who have not yet completed registration have been advised to contact the Directorate General Monitoring and Evaluation office to update their records.

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    Fariha Pervez reflects on motherhood and parenting

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistani singer Fariha Pervez has opened up about not having children and shared her views on the responsibilities that come with parenthood. The singer recently appeared on Ahmed Ali Butt’s podcast “Excuse Me,” where she spoke candidly about motherhood, raising children and the importance of parents giving proper attention to their kids. Fariha said she does not have children but believes she would have been an extremely protective and attentive mother if she had become a parent. She explained that watching children grow through different stages of life makes parenting a major responsibility. The singer stressed that children require time, care and guidance from their parents. She also expressed concern over parents who rely heavily on electronic devices to keep their children occupied. According to Fariha, excessive use of tablets and other devices can have negative effects on children’s wellbeing. She urged parents to pay closer attention to how their children spend their time and to take their responsibilities seriously. She described children as a blessing as well as a test and encouraged parents to value them accordingly. Fariha further emphasised the important role mothers play in a child’s upbringing. She said that bringing a child into the world comes with the responsibility of providing proper care, attention and protection. The singer acknowledged that some parents might disagree with her comments but maintained that her intention was to highlight the significance of responsible parenting. Fariha Pervez has remained a recognised name in Pakistan’s music industry. She rose to prominence with her debut song “Dil Hua Bo Kata” and later became known for Punjabi songs, drama soundtracks and ghazal performances. She stepped away from the music industry in 2016 following her divorce from singer Nauman Javed. Her recent podcast appearance has once again drawn attention to her personal views and experiences.

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    UK leaders mourn former Cambridge professor Arday

    ByJustpaste.in

    UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has described the death of former Cambridge professor Jason Arday as “a tragedy on so many levels” and urged people to reflect before reaching conclusions about the circumstances surrounding his death. Arday, 41, was found dead at a property in Battersea, south London, on Friday afternoon. His family said they were devastated by the loss of the academic, describing him as a loving father, partner, brother, uncle and son. In a statement released through his publisher, Simon & Schuster UK, the family said Arday had been struggling amid what they described as a campaign of misinformation. Burnham, speaking during a visit to Cornwall, said the situation required reflection rather than immediate judgement. Arday resigned from his position as Professor of Sociology of Education at the University of Cambridge last week following allegations concerning plagiarism and questions about some claims surrounding his career. He rejected the allegations, although he acknowledged errors in some of his earlier academic work. Friends and colleagues have spoken about the pressure Arday faced in the weeks before his death. Eamonn McCrystal, a friend from St Mary’s University College London, said Arday had described feeling “destroyed” and expressed concern after his US travel visa was revoked. McCrystal remembered him as a kind and gentle person who had been involved with student radio during their university years. Cambridge Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Prentice said the university community was deeply saddened by Arday’s death and extended sympathy to his family and friends. Education Secretary Lucy Powell also expressed shock and urged the public to remember the human impact of intense public scrutiny. London Mayor Sadiq Khan said Arday had faced sustained media attention and described the treatment he received as an unacceptable campaign of public abuse. He called the death a wake-up call. The University and College Union also called for scrutiny of the harassment Arday experienced, including allegations of racism. Other prominent figures in British public life similarly raised concerns about the treatment of Black academics and the pressures faced by people from underrepresented backgrounds. Professor Simon Baron-Cohen, director of Cambridge’s Autism Research Centre, said he had spoken to Arday on the morning of his death. He described him as a caring and gentle person and said Arday had felt unable to leave his home. Professor Kehinde Andrews, a friend of Arday, said the academic had been deeply distressed after leaving Cambridge and had withdrawn from public life. The controversy surrounding Arday began after questions were raised about sections of his academic work. He denied plagiarism and said some errors were linked to the way he processed information as an autistic academic. Further questions were also raised about claims related to aspects of his personal history, including a long-distance charity run and fundraising achievements. Arday later clarified details surrounding both claims. His appointment at Cambridge in 2023 had been celebrated as a significant milestone, making him the university’s youngest Black professor at the time. When announcing his resignation, Arday said the personal cost of the controversy had become too great. He maintained that his decision to leave Cambridge should not be interpreted as an acceptance of the allegations made against him. Cambridge has announced an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his appointment. Liverpool John Moores University, which awarded Arday his PhD in 2015, previously concluded that he had not committed plagiarism.

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    Grammys review Asian Pop category after BTS withdrawal

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Recording Academy is reconsidering its newly introduced Asian Pop category after K-pop superstars BTS announced that they would not submit music for the 2027 Grammy Awards. Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. said the organisation had held discussions with artists and other stakeholders following the group’s decision. He acknowledged that some musicians believe the new category does not adequately represent the music and artists it was created to recognise. Mason said the Academy’s goal is to ensure that musicians from different communities feel properly represented and heard. He added that feedback from artists in the Asian music scene had prompted the organisation to reassess the category. The review comes shortly after BTS confirmed that the group would not enter music for next year’s Grammy ceremony. BTS leader RM announced the decision last month, saying the group wanted music to be appreciated without being divided according to language or geographical region. The band has a huge international following and has played a major role in bringing K-pop to audiences around the world. Its decision not to participate in the upcoming Grammy process has therefore drawn considerable attention within the global music industry. The Recording Academy has not yet announced what changes could be made to the Asian Pop category. However, Mason indicated that the organisation’s management and board are committed to responding to concerns raised by musicians. The new category was intended to broaden recognition of Asian music within the Grammys and provide artists with a dedicated platform. The Academy’s latest review could lead to changes in how the category is structured or which styles and artists it covers. BTS’ withdrawal has also renewed discussion about how major international music awards classify artists and genres in an increasingly global music industry.