The Bengaluru Commute Podcast. Weekend News update : Z-category security; BESCOM power cuts; BBMP updates; Rapido; Infosys; High Altitude Pseudo Satellites; Telangana news; ISRO; Gaganyaan; USA news; China news; Reliance Industries; Ambani ; Adani Group;
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Transcript:
Welcome to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast, your only companion on the streets of Bengaluru.
Here are the top stories of the week that went by.
Bengaluru Local news
1. The Ministry of Home Affairs approved Z-category security for former Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa. The enhanced protection, limited to Karnataka, is in response to threats from radical groups. Central Reserve Police Force commandos will oversee security, reflecting MHA's commitment to Yediyurappa's safety amidst state-wide tours and upcoming elections. This move follows an Intelligence Bureau report on potential dangers from radical groups in Karnataka. Yediyurappa's longstanding influence in Karnataka underscores the significance of this security measure.
2. In other headlines, the BJP urged the disqualification of Karnataka's Urban Development Minister, Suresha B S, over alleged fake document creation by his associates. They called for a CBI or NIA probe, citing national security concerns. The BJP accused local politicians of aiding illegal immigrants through Aadhaar fraud, demanding legal action. They emphasized the gravity of the issue, urging immediate action against those involved. The party stressed the need for a thorough investigation, calling it a threat to national integrity.
3. In some more news, Bengaluru will face scheduled power cuts this weekend, due to a state power crisis caused by severe drought. Outages, mainly from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., stem from maintenance projects by power companies like BESCOM and KPTCL. Various works include renovation, cable maintenance, and pole replacements. The complete list of affected areas has been listed on BESCOM's official website.
4. Up next, Karnataka Energy Minister K J George assured no load shedding amidst a state power crisis. Efforts are underway to procure power from other states to meet demand, which exceeds daily generation by 30-40 million units due to poor monsoon. George dispelled claims of artificial shortage and emphasized uninterrupted supply. Measures include coal allocation, power swapping agreements, and short-term procurement plans. Regulatory approval has been secured for procurement.
5. Now, onto other news, after a six-year delay, the BBMP is set to restart the Ejipura flyover project. Hyderabad-based BSCPL will take over the contract. No major changes to the original plan are expected. Tests will be conducted with IISC's assistance, and construction is slated to commence in 15 days. The flyover aims to ease traffic in Koramangala, SG Palya, and Dairy Circle. Initially awarded to Simplex Infrastructure, only 42.83% of the project was completed by November 2019.
6. Moving on, Rapido, the app-based ride aggregator, introduced "Auto Plus" in Bengaluru, guaranteeing rides without cancellations. Over 10,000 auto-rickshaw drivers have joined this premium service on a pilot basis. While fares are 25-30% higher than regular rides, they offer increased reliability. Rapido plans to integrate 50,000 more captains in three months, aiming for a convenient and dependable experience. Notably, the fares may exceed the mandated rates set by the High Court.
7. Meanwhile, Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy emphasized that Indian youth must put in 70 hours a week to compete globally, especially with countries like China. He criticized India's low work productivity compared to developed nations and urged the government to streamline decision-making and tackle bureaucratic corruption. Ola CEO Bhavish Aggarwal echoed Murthy's sentiment, stressing the importance of hard work over leisure. However, film producer Ronnie Screwvala countered, highlighting the significance of upskilling, a positive work environment, and fair pay for improved productivity.
8. On a different note, the National Gallery of Modern Art, Bengaluru will present Nandalal Bose's revered 'Haripura Panels' for the first time from next week until April 2024. The series of 400 watercolour posters depict Indian village life and is among Bose's acclaimed works. Commissioned by Mahatma Gandhi, it served as the backdrop for the 51st Indian National Congress session in 1938. The exhibition, featuring 77 panels, marks India's inaugural comprehensive showcase of the panels. Bose, a pioneer of modern Indian art influenced by Indian murals, hailed from West Bengal, infusing an Indian essence into his creations.
National News
1. Moving on to the national news. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan stated that the debate over using "India" or "Bharat" is unnecessary, emphasizing they refer to the same nation. He highlighted that both names hold significance in the Constitution. Pradhan dismissed the controversy as the work of a few frustrated individuals, affirming "Bharat" as the country's original name. This follows a proposal to replace "India" with "Bharat" in textbooks, which sparked political discord.
2. Meanwhile, India plans to deploy a drone-based surveillance system along its borders to prevent surprise attacks, similar to the one by Hamas in Israel. Defence officials have met with six domestic drone vendors, and an order is expected next month. The system aims to be operational in some border areas by May, addressing ongoing tensions with China and Pakistan, particularly in the Himalayas. High-Altitude Pseudo Satellites, solar-powered drones with extended flight capabilities, will be employed as part of this initiative.
3. In more news, in the lead-up to Telangana's state assembly elections on November 30, the contentious issue of BJP allegedly attempting to poach four Bharat Rashtra Samithi MLAs a year ago has faded. A sting operation led to arrests, but the case, now in the Supreme Court, has seen no progress. Both parties remain silent. Analysts suggest a potential understanding between BRS and BJP.
4. Shifting our focus, scientists at ISRO have initiated the analysis of data from the successful test vehicle development flight (TV-D1) for India’s inaugural human spaceflight, Gaganyaan. They are examining the crew escape system and evaluating the performance of various systems within the crew module, retrieved from the Bay of Bengal after the mission. The test, which demonstrated subsystems and escape systems, is a crucial step toward Gaganyaan's manned mission, planned for around 2025.
5. In a general weather update for the country, the IMD reported a drop in both day and night temperatures in Maharashtra as cool northern winds prevail. The maximum temperatures are anticipated to further decrease in the coming days. Despite reduced atmospheric moisture, higher relative humidity may make it feel warmer. After the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon, Pune experienced notably elevated temperatures, accompanied by heightened humidity levels in certain areas.
International News
1. Turning our attention to international news, Republican Senator Susan Collins of Maine faces criticism for her historical votes against gun control measures in light of a deadly mass shooting in Lewiston. While Collins expressed condolences and received support from President Biden, social media users condemned her opposition to stronger gun laws, referencing her past voting record. Collins voted against amendments for assault weapon bans and limitations on high-capacity magazines in 2013.
2. In ongoing news, Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian warned at the United Nations that if Israel's retaliation against Palestinian militants Hamas in Gaza persists, the United States will face consequences. He stated, "If the genocide in Gaza continues, they will not be spared from this fire." Hamas conveyed readiness to release civilian hostages and called for the release of 6,000 Palestinians in Israeli prisons. Iran, along with Qatar and Turkey, is prepared to assist in this humanitarian effort.
3. In a recent development, Pakistan's caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti issued a final warning to all undocumented immigrants, including hundreds of thousands of Afghan nationals, to leave voluntarily by the Nov. 1 deadline. The decision announced, comes in response to Afghan nationals' involvement in crimes and attacks against the government and army. The affected individuals will be processed at temporary government-established centres with assistance provided for their departure. The expulsion plan marks a new low in relations between the South Asian neighbours.
4. In some tragic news, former Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, a key economic figure for a decade, passed away at 68 due to a heart attack. He held the No. 2 position from 2013-23, advocating for private enterprise. However, President Xi Jinping's consolidation of power diminished Li's authority. Despite pledging to support entrepreneurs, Xi's policies favoured state industries and tightened control over various sectors. Li was excluded from the Standing Committee at a 2022 party congress.
Business News
1. Let's now look at some business stories. Shareholders have greenlit the inclusion of Ambani heirs Akash, Isha, and Anant on the board of Reliance Industries, according to a company statement. Among them, Isha and Akash secured over 98% of votes for their appointments, while Anant garnered 92.75% support, as indicated in the filing. Akash, Isha, and Anant, appointed as directors at Reliance Industries, will receive only a sitting fee and commission but no salary.
2. In more business news, Adani Group aims to secure up to $4 billion for green hydrogen initiatives. Adani New Industries, an Adani Enterprises subsidiary, is in early-stage talks with domestic and international banks for funding. Meanwhile, TotalEnergies is investing $300 million with Adani Green Energy for Indian renewable projects. Adani New Industries' capital raise is distinct from this collaboration, and funds will support projects like a 1 million metric ton green hydrogen facility in Gujarat slated to operate in 2027.
3. Next up, in some tech news. Google CEO Sundar Pichai is set to testify in an antitrust case regarding Google's search and advertising dominance. Pichai will discuss investments to maintain search competitiveness amid the rise of smartphones. The government may question Google's billions spent on making its search the default on devices. Google, with around 90% of the search market, is accused of illegal payments to stay the default on devices, giving it a strong position in the ad market.
4. Moving on, Klaus Goersch has been appointed as Air India's Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer, overseeing various functions including flight operations and ground operations. He will be based at the airline's new Gurugram headquarters. R S Sandhu, the current Chief of Operations, will transition to an advisory role. Goersch, a licensed B777/787 pilot, previously served in similar capacities at British Airways and Air Canada, bringing valuable experience to Air India's transformation.
5. In market news, the Sensex surged by 719.09 points (1.14%) to reach 63,867.24, while the Nifty rose by 209 points (1.11%) to reach 19,066.30. Among the listed shares, 2567 saw gains, 580 experienced losses, and 98 remained unchanged. The Indian Rupee saw a slight 2 paise appreciation buoyed by positive trends in the domestic market.
Entertainment News
1. Over to news from the entertainment world. Salman Khan's highly anticipated film, Tiger 3, is set to dominate all 23 IMAX screens in India over The Marvels. Indian box office expert Jatinder Singh noted the historical success of Indian blockbusters over Hollywood releases. Tiger 3, starring Salman Khan, Katrina Kaif, and Emraan Hashmi, is slated for a Diwali 2023 release. It follows a trend where Bollywood and Tollywood films outperform Hollywood releases in India, with examples like Pathaan and Jawan.
2. In news from Hollywood, in response to the revelations in Britney Spears' memoir 'The Woman in Me', Justin Timberlake has cancelled upcoming performances. The book delves into their tumultuous relationship, including allegations of an abortion and infidelity. Originally part of an album promotional tour, Timberlake's shows have been scrapped. Spears' memoir has sold over 400,000 copies, sparking a public debate. It details Timberlake's alleged actions, which she says were not meant to vilify but to share her perspective.
3. Meanwhile, in some news from regional cinema, Tamil star Suriya announced 'Suriya 43' with a star-studded cast including Dulquer Salmaan, Vijay Varma, and Nazriya Fahadh. The film reunites him with 'Soorarai Pottru' director Sudha Kongara, both National Award winners. GV Prakash Kumar, composing for his 100th film, joins the project. Vijay Varma makes his Tamil debut, while Dulquer and Nazriya reunite after a decade after starring in the 2014 Malayalam film, Bangalore Days.
Sports News
1. In sports news, under Rahul Dravid's guidance, Team India secured five consecutive victories at the ICC World Cup 2023, establishing themselves as frontrunners for the tournament's business end. Dravid's contract as head coach will conclude after the ODI World Cup, raising speculation about its renewal. VVS Laxman may oversee the team for the T20I series against Australia after the rigorous World Cup campaign. If fresh applications are sought, Laxman and Sitansu Kotak would be top contenders for the coaching roles.
2. In more sports updates, Newcastle's Sandro Tonali faces a 10-month ban by the Italian soccer federation for betting on matches he played in. This rules him out of the Premier League season and Italy's European Championship. Tonali, the second player suspended in the case, agreed to therapy for gambling addiction as part of a plea deal. The ban means he'll miss Euro 2024. Tonali cooperated with authorities, reducing his sentence for betting on soccer matches.
3. Wrapping up sports news, Indian para-athletes made history at the Asian Para Games, clinching 80 medals, including 18 golds. This surpasses their previous best of 72 in 2018. Medals include gold in men's F46 shot put, R6 mixed 50m rifle prone SH1, and compound mixed archery. The team aims for 100 medals in this edition. Notable wins include silver in women's T12 100m and bronze in men's T35 100m, men's T37 100m, and various badminton and chess events.
Bengaluru Buzz
Switching gears to local events. There are many events ongoing and upcoming in Bengaluru this week
1. Get ready for an extraordinary musical event featuring rising pop sensation KING in his latest tour "New Life", performing live at the Phoenix Market City, Whitefield on the 28th of October at 6.00 pm.
2. Catch ace comic Gaurav Kapoor as he headlines his latest stand-up special "Chaman Chatora", performing live at the MLR Convention Centre, JP Nagar on the 29th of October at 4.00 pm and 7.00 pm.
3. Immerse yourself in a magical evening with the exclusive - "An Evening of Magic" event featuring ace magician Nakul Shenoy, happening at the Atta Gallatta, Indiranagar on the 29th of October at 6.00 pm.
4. Enjoy a relaxing session of art this festive season with the "LIPPAN ART WORKSHOP - DIWALI SPECIAL", happening at the Art Delight Group, Harlur Main Road on the 28th of October at 11.30 am.
5. You can also catch popular comic Gurleen Pannu as she returns to the city with her latest stand-up special - "Pannu Yaar!", performing live at the Long Boat Brewing Co., Marathahalli on the 29th of October at 8.00 p.m.
Podcasts
1. Podcasts to listen to over the weekend: Catch the latest episodes of the "Flight Path with Alok" where host Alok talks to experts and gives you an inside look into the global aviation business.
2. If entertainment is your thing, then check out the incredible Off Air with JMAN podcast where he interacts with artists, comics and creators across the globe!
3. You can also enjoy the latest episodes of the "Studio 1886" podcast, where host Sukhoon brings you all things at work, fun and more, happening inside the BGSW campuses!
Bengaluru Weather
1. And finally, the weather in Bengaluru. Bengaluru is expected to be moderately cloudy. Temperature is forecasted to range from a warm 30°C to a comfortable 20°C. The maximum heat index, considering moisture influence, is projected at a warm 33°C, under light wind and shaded conditions.
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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