20th October, 2023 - The Bengaluru Commute Podcast. News update : Karnataka sports reservation; EV sector; Namma Metro news; Kambala; BBMP news update; India rural development centres; Tamil Nadu; Kerala news; Sikkim; USA news; Israel conflict; Air India;
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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 20th of October, let's begin with updates from the city. Karnataka's CM Siddaramaiah vowed to increase sports reservation in government jobs across all departments. Currently, at 3% in police and forest sectors, he intends to extend it to 2% in other government fields. He announced this while honouring athletes from the state who excelled in the Asian Games. Siddaramaiah reiterated the state's commitment to supporting sports, having previously offered substantial prizes for Asian Games and Olympics winners.
2. In other headlines, Karnataka, a pioneer in promoting the Electric Vehicle sector, has attracted investments worth ₹25,000 crore across the value chain. An anticipated ₹15,000 crore will be allocated for research and development. The state boasts over two lakh registered EVs, ranking third in the country. Karnataka's Auto/EV ecosystem is set to generate substantial employment opportunities. The Electric Vehicle Mobility Centre of Excellence & Innovation, inaugurated by Minister M B Patil at JSS Academy of Technical Education, will serve as a pivotal training and research hub.
3. In some more news, the Karnataka High Court rejected Deputy CM D K Shivakumar's plea to dismiss the CBI's disproportionate assets case. Justice K Natarajan ruled against the plea, lifting the interim stay on the CBI probe. The agency is instructed to conclude the investigation and submit a final report within three months. The Supreme Court also upheld the stay on CBI's investigation into the case. They issued a notice to Shivakumar, seeking his response by November 7.
4. Up next, IKEA has introduced a dedicated foot-over bridge at Nagasandra metro station in Bengaluru to offer direct access to its store. The bridge aims to enhance convenience and safety for customers travelling from across the city. It also serves as a practical option during peak traffic and adverse weather conditions. Since its June 2022 launch, IKEA Nagasandra has attracted significant foot traffic. The company plans to invest ₹3,000 crore in Karnataka, targeting nearly five million visitors annually.
5. Now, onto other news, during the ICC World Cup 2023 matches in Bengaluru, Namma Metro will provide return journey paper tickets for cricket fans heading to M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Matches are scheduled for today, October 20, 26, and November 4, 9, and 12. Commuters will be permitted single journeys from Cubbon Park/MG Road to any metro station from 4 p.m. onward. This initiative aims to streamline travel and reduce queues at key stations on match days.
6. Moving on, a survey by LocalCircles reveals that 72% of 1,752 participants believe municipal bodies in the state have inadequately addressed the dengue threat. Despite these findings, BBMP officials assert efforts, including larval surveys and awareness campaigns, are underway. Respondents are resorting to various measures, including mosquito rackets, repellents, and sprays, with only 9% opting for private fogging services. Monthly spending on these measures ranges from Rs 200 to Rs 500 for 33% of participants, while 30% spend up to Rs 200.
7. Meanwhile, around 5,000 edible plant species, some exotic, are still overlooked despite their nutritional significance. ICAR-IIHR Bengaluru hosted an international seminar urging farmers, NGOs, and stakeholders to embrace these underutilized species. Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot highlighted the institute's role, stating it contributed Rs 30,000 crore to the national economy by developing over 300 varieties and hybrids of 54 horticultural crops. The production of horticultural crops has surged from 25 million tonnes in 1950-51 to 350 million tonnes presently.
8. On a different note, Bengaluru will host Kambala, the traditional buffalo-racing sport, a departure from its usual coastal Karnataka locations. 125 pairs of buffaloes and jockeys will travel from Karnataka for the November 25-26 event at Palace Grounds. A specially designed track filled with gravel, sand, and mud will be used. Buffaloes will arrive two days before the race to rest, with veterinary support available. Kambala was briefly banned in 2014 but legalized in 2017 with adherence to animal welfare regulations.
National News
1. Moving on to the national news. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually inaugurate 511 rural skill development centres in Maharashtra, named after late BJP leader Pramod Mahajan. These centres spread across 34 rural districts, will offer training in various sectors, benefiting around 100 youngsters. Industry partners under the National Skill Development Council will provide the training, aiming to enhance employment prospects for rural youth. Pramod Mahajan, a prominent BJP figure, passed away in 2006 at 56.
2. Meanwhile, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court declined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's (RSS) request for rallies in Madurai, Ramanathapuram, and Sivangai districts of Tamil Nadu on October 22. However, permission was granted for processions in at least 11 districts. The petition sought approval for RSS gatherings in 20 locations across 14 southern districts, including Madurai. The request encompassed various districts such as Thanjavur, Trichy, Dindigul, Karur and others.
3. In more news, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan chaired a review meeting where he directed departments to ensure the timely completion of tasks for the annual Mandalam-Makaravilakku pilgrimage. Vijayan emphasized providing devotees with drinking water and maintaining cleanliness in Sabarimala and its surroundings. He also ordered the removal of the Treasury Department's control over Sabarimala activities. Additionally, police and TDB personnel will receive training for the virtual queue system.
4. Shifting our focus, the Union government plans to expand palm oil plantations across six northeastern states, encompassing an area larger than Sikkim. This initiative, part of the national mission on edible oils, raises concerns about its impact on biodiversity. Three companies, including Patanjali Foods and Godrej Agrovet, are involved in palm oil processing and plantation in the region. Meghalaya has opted out due to biodiversity concerns and farmer opposition. The re-assessment identified 840,344 hectares suitable for oil palm cultivation.
5. In a general weather update for the country, Pune experienced light rainfall, offering relief from high temperatures. Shivajinagar recorded 1 mm, while Lohegaon reported 1.2 mm of rainfall. The IMD Pune explained the phenomenon was a result of moisture from the Bay of Bengal. It also reported the formation of two atmospheric systems in the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, potentially leading to low-pressure areas. Partly cloudy skies are anticipated in the city.
International News
1. Turning our attention to international news, independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s entry into the 2024 election could sway outcomes, garnering support from both Democrats and Republicans. Previously a Democrat, Kennedy's shift to an independent bid is noted. A recent NPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist National poll indicates this change disproportionately affects Trump, with Biden securing 44% of votes, Trump 37%, and Kennedy 16%. Kennedy's move appears to favour Biden, according to Lee M. Miringoff, director of the Marist College Institute for Public Opinion.
2. In ongoing news, Davis Polk & Wardwell, an elite law firm, withdrew job offers from three Ivy League students from Harvard, NYU and Columbia who supported a Palestine solidarity letter. The firm's managing partner, Neil Barr, stated that the views expressed in the letter contradicted the firm's values. Two of the students are in ongoing dialogue with the firm, while student leaders who endorsed the statements are no longer welcome. The letter condemned Israel for the recent violence.
3. In a recent development, Chinese President Xi Jinping assured Egypt's Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouli of enhanced cooperation to bring stability to the Middle East amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. Xi emphasized their shared goals and trust, pledging to work together for development and global prosperity. He acknowledged the current unprecedented global changes and expressed Beijing's commitment to safeguarding international fairness, justice, and the interests of developing countries.
4. In some other news, Ana Maria Salhuana, Deputy Country Director of the World Food Programme in Afghanistan, highlighted the urgent need for funding to aid earthquake survivors. The program, already severely underfunded, aims to provide emergency food assistance to 100,000 affected individuals. The earthquakes have left communities struggling to feed themselves, exacerbating their destitution. The recent 6.3 magnitude quake, the fourth in a week, further devastated western Afghanistan after major quakes claimed thousands of lives and flattened villages.
Business News
1. Let's now look at some business stories. India achieved a record foodgrain output of 329.6 million tonnes in 2022-23, marking a 4% increase from the previous year's production. Wheat production stood at 110.5 million tonnes, up 4.7%. The agriculture ministry's final estimates indicated higher yields in major crops, including pulses and oilseeds. Cereal prices showed double-digit growth, while overall retail prices, measured by the Consumer Price Index, slowed to a three-month low of 5.02% in September.
2. In more business news, Tata-owned Air India subsidiaries, Air India Express and AirAsia India revealed a unified refreshed brand, 'Air India Express,' on a new Boeing B737-8 aircraft in a Mumbai airport ceremony. Chairman Campbell Wilson and MD Aloke Singh introduced the new identity, logo, and aircraft livery. The rebranding aligns with the final stages of the Air India Express-AirAsia India merger, aiming to enhance connectivity and become the airline of a new generation.
3. Next up, in some tech news. Google unveiled 'DigiKavach' in India, a program aimed at thwarting financial frauds. Launched at the ninth Google for India event in Delhi, it reflects the company's commitment to combating evolving scams. DigiKavach is an early warning system that analyzes emerging fraud patterns to prevent widespread harm. Google will closely study scam methods and collaborate with a broader ecosystem for effective information sharing. The tech giant is partnering with the Fintech Association for Consumer Empowerment.
4. Moving on, Manipal HealthMap, the diagnostics branch of Manipal Group completed the acquisition of the remaining 16% stake in Medcis PathLabs, a Hyderabad-based firm. This move follows their earlier purchase of 84% in April 2022 for Rs 100 crore. CEO Sandeep Sharma expressed the aim to become the largest integrated diagnostics brand in the Manipal Group. The unified entity will streamline operations across common locations in Pune, Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, Kolhapur, and Nagpur, alongside Medcis PathLabs' existing 23 laboratories nationwide.
5. In market news for today, the Sensex dipped by 0.15 per cent, or 95.88 points, settling at 65,781.14, while the Nifty dropped by 0.08 per cent, or 16.40 points, closing at 19,654.70. Out of the total, 1595 shares saw gains, 1570 experienced declines, and 87 remained unchanged. The Indian Rupee faced a drop due to sluggish domestic market sentiment and an increase in the US Dollar. Additionally, FII selling exerted further pressure on the domestic currency.
Entertainment News
1. Over to news from the entertainment world. Actor Tiger Shroff is the latest addition to Rohit Shetty's cop universe in "Singham Again." He revealed his role as ACP Satya, receiving a warm welcome from Akshay Kumar and Ranveer Singh. Tiger shared images donning the uniform, showcasing his physique. The cameo sets the stage for a unique cop identity within the franchise, with plans for solo projects alongside Devgn, Kumar, Singh, and Deepika Padukone in the expanded cop universe.
2. In news from Hollywood, Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe dismissed rumours of replacing Hugh Jackman as Wolverine. In a Vanity Fair interview, Radcliffe explained his recent fitness regimen but clarified, "Flattered, but no Wolverine." He also shared other amusing rumours about himself, including SAS dog walks and custom-brewed beer. Meanwhile, Jackman is slated to reprise Wolverine in Deadpool 3, set for a May 2024 release.
3. Meanwhile, in some news from regional cinema, renowned Malayalam actor Nivin Pauly is set to debut on Disney+ Hotstar with the series "Pharma," announced recently. Directed by PR Arun, known for films like "Finals" and "Rampunthanavaruthi," and produced by Movie Mill, the show holds personal significance for Arun. Notable Hindi actor Rajit Kapur returns to the Malayalam industry after a decade. The production team includes Abhinandan Ramanujam as cinematographer.
Sports News
1. In sports news, The Kiwis Trent Boult and Matt Henry quickly dismissed Afghanistan's openers in the 289-run chase. The duo then delivered three consecutive maidens, limiting Afghanistan to 28/2 in the first 10 overs. Lockie Ferguson struck again, removing Hashmatullah Shahidi. New Zealand's bowlers took five wickets, causing a batting collapse. Mitchell Santner's three wickets helped New Zealand secure a 149-run victory over Afghanistan.
2. In more sports updates, Max Verstappen, fresh off his third consecutive drivers' title, aims for his 50th career victory at the United States Grand Prix. The dominant Red Bull driver seeks a hat-trick of successes and possibly equals his 2022 record of 15 wins. Meanwhile, Ferrari and Mercedes gear up to challenge Red Bull's dominance in preparations for 2024.
3. Wrapping up sports news, Spanish Women's World Cup winner, Jenni Hermoso, received a national team call-up for Nations League games against Italy and Switzerland. She was initially omitted from the squad post-World Cup due to controversy over a kiss from the former Spanish soccer federation president Luis Rubiales. Coach Montse Tomé explained it was the right time for her return, noting Hermoso's increased playing time. The players' boycott ended after government intervention brought assurances of federation reforms.
Bengaluru Buzz
Switching gears to local events. There are many events ongoing and upcoming in Bengaluru this week
1. Get ready for an incredible event - "Bollywood Dandiya Night" and enjoy this festive season with friends, happening at the Sugar Factory Reloaded, Koramangala 5th Block on the 22nd of October at 8:00 pm.
2. Catch ace comics Debashish Rath & Siddharth Agarwal as they headline their latest stand-up special- "Chacha & Chaudhary," performing live at the Comedy Garage, Whitefield on the 22nd of October at 8.00 pm.
3. Join an exclusive "Jewelry Making Workshop" conducted by artist Neha and connect with fellow enthusiasts, happening at The Happiness Cafe, Koramangala 6th Block, on the 22nd of October at 2.00 p.m.
4. Immerse yourself in an exclusive "Abstract Art Exhibition: Art for Your Living Room", happening at the Verde Art Gallery, KR Puram on the 21st and 22nd of October from 11.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m.
5. You can also catch the incredible Abhineet Mishra in his latest outing - "Bottoms Up", performing live at Just BLR, Brigade Road on the 21st of October at 7.30 pm.
Bengaluru Weather
1. And finally, the weather in Bengaluru. Bengaluru anticipates partly cloudy weather conditions. Temperatures will range from a warm 30°C to a pleasant 19°C. The heat index, factoring in humidity and air temperature, reaches a warm 32°C. Note that these values are assessed under shade with light wind.
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 download the skill from your Alexa app and look for the Bengaluru commute podcast.
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