15th August, 2023 - The Bengaluru Commute Podcast. News update : Gruha Lakshmi scheme; Namma Metro update; 'Swaraj for Cities' event; ED summons Kerala Congress chief; Traditional Medicine Global Sum
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Transcript:
Welcome to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast, your only companion on the streets of Bengaluru.
Bengaluru Local news
1. For today, the 15th of August, let's begin with updates from the city. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah confirmed that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is set to join the Gruha Lakshmi scheme launch. The event is slated for August 29 or 30. Over 1.2 crore beneficiaries have registered for the scheme, which promises ₹2,000 monthly cash aid to female heads of households. To streamline applications, a WhatsApp chatbot service has been introduced.
2. In other headlines, Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah urged the Union government to revise state drought declaration criteria, adapting to individual state realities and aiding farmers promptly. Addressing Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar, Siddaramaiah cited Karnataka's 234 mm rainfall (deficient by 34%) compared to the norm of 336 mm due to delayed and erratic monsoon. Despite drought-like conditions, existing parameters aren't met, leaving farmers without essential support amid climate change-induced challenges.
3. In some more news, Deputy CM D K Shivakumar revealed that a Kanteerava Stadium-like facility will grace Dr K Shivaram Karanth Layout by the BDA in North Bengaluru. Around 25 to 45 acres of land within the layout have been designated for this project. Shivakumar encouraged commercial ventures along wide roads for increased revenue, potentially establishing IT parks and industries for North Bengaluru's commercial growth.
4. Up next, Namma Metro conducted load tests on its open web girder tracks above the railway line at Benniganahalli in eastern Bengaluru. This test evaluates the 63.22m-wide OWG's strength, positioned 8.45m above the railway track, weighing 550 metric tonnes. The Baiyappanahalli-KR Pura Purple Line segment was tested, targeting an August-end opening to link Whitefield and the western suburbs.
5. Now, onto other news, Karnataka's transport department appears to disregard rampant violations by private school vans in Bengaluru, with just 12 cases reported between April 2022 and March 2023. However, they recently initiated a crackdown, booking 814 cases in the last month. Regulations stipulate that only contracted vehicles with specific permits can carry schoolchildren. Private vehicles operate illegally under these rules, lacking proper modifications and adhering to required specifications.
6. Moving on, civic society advocates, officials and experts convened at the Bangalore International Centre recently to reconsider urban governance and city planning in Karnataka. The "Swaraj for Cities" event, hosted by Citizens’ Agenda, discussed the 74th Amendment, focusing on municipal power decentralization. Speakers highlighted flaws in urban governance, underscoring the need for regional, sustainable planning beyond city limits. They also emphasized the importance of implementing recommendations like the state finance commission's proposals for better governance.
7. Meanwhile, the "Village Clinic", a free medical camp led by Dr B Ramana Rao, a cardiologist and physician, marked 50 years of uninterrupted service. This unique individual-led initiative offers endocrinology, dermatology, dental, and ophthalmology services, having treated over two million cases. The clinic has also contributed to community welfare by building toilets, distributing essentials, supporting schools, and more, all free of cost.
8. On a different note, the revamped oncology block at St. John's Medical College launched nuclear medicine services and PET scanning, enhancing cancer diagnosis and treatment options during the institution's Diamond Jubilee. Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy inaugurated the new block, including integrated lab services, and highlighted PET scan accessibility at affordable rates. A 140-bed geriatric centre is also planned. As part of the celebration, outreach programs, including free angioplasties and angiograms, are scheduled.
National News
1. Moving on to the national news. Enforcement Directorate summoned Kerala Congress unit chief K Sudhakaran for questioning regarding a cheating case involving fake antique dealer Monson Mavunkal. Sudhakaran is directed to appear in Kochi on August 18. In the 2021 case, six individuals alleged Mavunkal cheated them of ₹10 crores, with Sudhakaran present when money exchanged hands. Sudhakaran, a Lok Sabha MP, asserted innocence, explaining he visited Mavunkal as a cosmetologist.
2. Meanwhile, the WHO, in collaboration with the Indian government, will host the Traditional Medicine Global Summit on August 17-18 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. This event aims to explore the role of traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine in addressing health challenges and harnessing evidence-based knowledge for global well-being. The summit will involve WHO leaders, G20 health ministers, experts, practitioners, and civil society members.
3. In more news, Chhattisgarh, despite being one of India's poorest states, secures the second-best fiscal health score after Maharashtra, surpassing Telangana, in a report by Kaushik Das, the chief economist at Deutsche Bank India. Bengal, Punjab, and Kerala rank lowest. Based on FY24 estimates, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana lead, while Bengal, Punjab, and Kerala lag behind. Das authored the report, which assesses 17 key states' fiscal health.
4. Shifting our focus, ISRO has announced the imminent launch of Aditya-L1, India's pioneer space-based solar study mission. The observatory, crafted at the U R Rao Satellite Centre in Bengaluru, is positioned at the SDSC-SHAR in Sriharikota for launch via a PSLV rocket. The spacecraft will orbit around Lagrange point 1 (L1), 1.5 million km from Earth in the Sun-Earth system. The journey from launch to L1 will span approximately four months.
5. In a general weather update for the country, the IMD has reported that a 2% rain deficit across India had emerged due to a weak August monsoon, following a 5% surplus by July end. This weakening, linked to El Nino, may continue until early September, except for a short revival over central India. The Himalayan foothills and northern states like Uttarakhand faced heavy rain, causing floods and landslides due to the northward-lying monsoon trough.
International News
1. Turning our attention to international news, during his visit to India, British Security Minister Tugendhat praised India's G-20 presidency timing, affirming that it was apt for current challenges. Under India's leadership, G-20 addresses Global South concerns, emphasizing inclusive global growth, sustainable goals, and green development. Tugendhat acknowledged India's importance as an ally and commended its millet consumption initiative to combat food insecurity.
2. In ongoing news, amidst escalating tensions in the Black Sea, Russia is enhancing its naval capabilities by equipping Yasen-M class submarines with Zircon hypersonic missiles. These nuclear-powered multipurpose submarines already feature Kalibr and Oniks cruise missiles and torpedoes. Additionally, Russia plans to commission five new ships to strengthen its naval fleet this year.
3. In a recent development, Niger's military leader is open to exploring a diplomatic resolution with the West African bloc ECOWAS, according to a religious mediator. The ECOWAS, while considering deploying a force to reinstate constitutional order, continues to seek diplomatic solutions to the standoff. General Abdourahamane Tiani, the coup leader, expressed willingness for diplomacy and peace, acknowledging the coup's intent to avert threats. However, he found ECOWAS's ultimatum regrettable, stating it overlooked their perspective.
4. In some positive news, New Zealand's government has removed all COVID-19 requirements, ending some of the world's strictest pandemic rules over three years after their imposition. Minister of Health Ayesha Verrall stated that mask-wearing in healthcare settings and seven-day isolations after contracting the virus will no longer be mandatory. Successful vaccination rates and managed hospital pressures allowed most restrictions to be lifted last year.
Business News
1. Let's now look at some business stories. India's market regulator, the SEBI has extended its investigation into Adani Group's transactions by 15 days, according to a new legal filing. While 17 of the 24 transactions under investigation have been scrutinized, SEBI requires additional information from other regulators and foreign jurisdictions to determine its next steps.
2. In more business news, Axis Asset Management, the mutual fund unit of Axis Bank, has introduced a private credit alternative investment fund (AIF), aiming to gather up to Rs 1,250 crore from investors. The private credit fund is part of Axis Mutual Fund's alternative assets business, encompassing private equity, real estate AIFs, portfolio management services, and equity AIFs.
3. Next up, in some tech news. Apple is reportedly redesigning the Apple Watch for an anticipated Apple Watch X release, similar to its iPhone X strategy. The new smartwatch might feature a slimmer design, a magnetic band attachment system, and potential space for improved internals or battery life. However, this change could render existing bands incompatible with the revamped model.
4. Moving on, CarTrade Tech Limited has successfully purchased OLX India's classifieds and auto transactions business for Rs 535.54 crore, aiming to establish itself as India's premier auto classifieds and transaction platform. The collaboration between CarTrade Tech and OLX will attract around 68 million average monthly unique visitors and boast 32 million listings yearly. CarTrade Tech's chairman and founder, Vinay Sanghi, expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition of OLX's strong brand and talented team.
5. In market news for August 15th, the Sensex climbed 156.17 points, marking a 0.24 per cent rise to reach 65,478.82, while the Nifty witnessed a gain of 22.50 points or 0.12 per cent, settling at 19,450.80. Among the listed stocks, 1340 saw an advance, 1917 saw a decline, and 121 remained unchanged. Amidst sluggish domestic markets and a robust Dollar, the Indian Rupee hit a new 10-month low.
Entertainment News
1. Over to news from the entertainment world. Shah Rukh Khan unveiled the much-awaited romantic song "Chaleya" from his upcoming action thriller film "Jawan". This follows the release of the first song, "Zinda Banda." The Hindi track features Arijit Singh and Shilpa Rao's vocals, choreography by Farah Khan, and lyrics by Kumaar. Directed by Atlee, the film also stars Nayanthara, Vijay Sethupathi, Priyamani and Sanya Malhotra in significant roles. "Jawan" will release in theatres on September 7th.
2. In news from Hollywood, actor Dwayne Johnson has stepped up to aid Maui residents affected by raging wildfires. In a video message, he highlighted ways to donate and support those impacted. Johnson, of Samoan descent with ties to Hawaii, expressed his heartbreak and connection to the disaster. Fellow actor Jason Momoa also urged tourists to avoid the island, emphasizing support for wildfire victims' evacuation and displaced locals.
3. Meanwhile, in some news from regional cinema, Kannada actor Upendra faced an Atrocity case for alleged casteist remarks that hurt a community's sentiments during a social media live session. He swiftly deleted the video later and apologized. The incident occurred during an anniversary event for his political group "Prajaakeeya." An FIR has been filed under the SC/ST Act, with ongoing investigation and action as per law.
Sports News
1. In sports news, after India's 2-3 loss to West Indies in the T20 series, Team India head coach Rahul Dravid emphasized the need to bolster batting depth. The long tail in the squad hampered flexibility. Dravid expressed the challenge of finding a balance between strong bowling and adequate batting depth. He, however, praised debutants Tilak Varma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Mukesh Kumar for their impressive performances.
2. In more sports updates, in a significant boost ahead of the Asian Games, India climbed to third place in the FIH rankings after winning the Asian Champions Trophy recently. With 2771.35 points, India surpassed England and now stands behind Netherlands and Belgium. This marks India's second time at No. 3 in the FIH rankings, having achieved it in 2021 after their Tokyo Olympics bronze win. The Harmanpreet Singh-led team's comeback victory over Malaysia secured them the ACT title.
3. Wrapping up sports news, Barcelona defended its Spanish league title with a 0-0 draw against Getafe, facing challenges like Raphinha's red card and a denied VAR decision. The match saw disputes over refereeing decisions, including a handball call in stoppage time. Coach Xavi expressed frustration with the outcome, while, Barcelona's new midfielder Ilkay Gundogan made his debut with this game.
Bengaluru Buzz
Switching gears to local events. There are many events ongoing and upcoming in Bengaluru this week
1. Get ready for a thrilling musical experience with 'Agam', the renowned Carnatic progressive rock band, as they take the stage live this weekend. Be the first to groove to their unreleased tracks. Happening on the 20th of August at 8.00 pm at GYLT, Hennur Bagalur Main Road, enjoy their rocking performance!
2. Catch popular comic Atul Khatri, as he returns to the city with his latest stand-up special, performing live at the Prestige Srihari Khoday Centre for Performing Arts on the 19th of August at 7.00 pm.
3. Immerse yourself in culinary greatness! Known for judging MasterChef Australia and Hell's Kitchen, Marco Pierre White, the globally acclaimed chef and culinary icon visits the city. Happening on the 19th of August at 7.30 pm at the JW Marriott, Ashok Nagar, relish his renowned recipes for a weekend indulgence!
4. Join a beginner's art class with the exclusive "Dot Painting on Mirrors" workshop, conducted by the city's art experts at the Art Delight Group, Harlur Main Road on the 19th of August at 11.30 am.
5. You can also catch the insanely talented Azeem Banatwalla, as he headlines his latest stand-up special "Minor Celebrity", performing live at Just BLR, Brigade Road on the 20th of August at 6.00 pm.
Bengaluru Weather
1. And finally, the weather in Bengaluru. On the 15th of August, Bengaluru is predicted to have partly cloudy weather with temperatures ranging from a high of 31°C to a low of 19°C. The heat index could reach 35°C, factoring in humidity and temperature. It's important to note that direct sunlight could increase the heat index by up to 8°C. This peak temperature will surpass the average maximum of 27.5°C.
That’s all for now on The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for today. I’m Anupama. If you enjoyed this episode, please do follow me on your favourite podcast and player, and leave a rating and a review as well. It helps other listeners to discover the show, and I would just really appreciate it. Even better if you know someone who would enjoy the podcast, share it with them. Make your commute truly extraordinary. The Bengaluru Commute podcast skill is now available on Alexa! All you have to do is to download the skill from your Alexa app and look for the Bengaluru commute podcast.
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Producer: Anupama Rajarathnam
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Voiceover: Anupama Rajarathnam
Script: Prathiksha Nehru
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