Kerala Man Hits Rs 8.5 Crore Jackpot For 2nd Time In Dubai Lottery
Paul Jose Mavely, 60, from Kerala, won the most recent Dubai Duty-Free Millennium Millionaire draw (Series 503), its official Instagram account of the draw declared.
"Another millionaire moment-again! Huge congratulations to Mr Mavely from India for winning his second US$1 million with Dubai Duty-Free today!" it read.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Dubai Duty Free (@dubaidutyfree)
Social media users were ecstatic about Mr Mavely's latest jackpot win. One commented, "Congratulations I need to know the secrets of Indian luck."
"Congratulations," another remarked.
Mr Mavely has spent the last 38 years living in Dubai and works as a site supervisor for a small contracting business. He becomes the 11th person in the competition's history to win twice, having previously won the same reward in November 2016.
Since the Dubai Duty-Free draw began in 1999, Mr Mavely has consistently participated, according to Khaleej Times. He has collaborated with friends to divide the ticket prices over the years.
He offered his 17 friends ticket number 3532, which he purchased online on May 19, in honour of his most recent victory.
Following his second victory, the father of two thanked the organisers of the draw. "I'm very thankful to Dubai Duty-Free for this second win," Mr Mavely said.
To win up to $1 million, tickets for the lottery are available for AED 1,000 (about Rs 22,700), minus 5 per cent VAT, at the duty-free shops at Dubai International Airport or online at the Dubai Duty-Free website.
All nationalities are eligible to enter the draw, which takes place twice a month, and there is no need to be in Dubai when it takes place. Each draw is limited to 5,000 tickets. At least 251 Indians have won this lottery since it commenced in 1999.
Earlier in May, another 52-year-old Kerala man won $1 million in the Dubai Duty Free Millennium Millionaire draw. Venugopal Mullacheri is an IT support specialist and resident of Ajman, United Arab Emirates.
Mr Mullacheri purchased the winning ticket at the Dubai airport on April 23. He called the money a "lifesaver," and that winning the lottery was like having a "massive burden" removed from his shoulders.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Indian Express
12 minutes ago
- Indian Express
Want to study in Germany? Cost of living, scholarships available for Indian students
– Ian McRae For international students planning to study in Germany, understanding the cost of living is just as crucial as selecting the right university or programme. Having a clear idea of your monthly expenses, like rent, groceries, transportation, and your phone bill, not only helps you manage your budget but also gives you peace of mind so you can focus on your studies. While Germany is known for its world-class education and low or even no tuition fees, the cost of living can vary significantly depending on the city you choose and your lifestyle. On average, international students should budget around €1,120 per month to cover essential living expenses. This includes rent and utilities, groceries, public transportation, health insurance, phone and internet, as well as study materials and other miscellaneous costs. Housing is often the biggest monthly expense. Students living in on-campus residences or halls can expect to pay between €250 to €500 per month, while those in shared flats off-campus typically pay €300 to €600, depending on the city and neighbourhood. For students opting for a private one-bedroom apartment, rent can range from €700 to €1,200 monthly. Transportation is relatively affordable, with public transit passes costing between €30 and €58 per month. Groceries and food usually add up to €150 to €250, especially if students shop at discount supermarkets or cook at home. Health insurance is mandatory and ranges between €140 to €150 per month, depending on the type of coverage. Other common monthly costs include around €25 for a mobile phone plan, €150 for utilities (if shared between two people), €32 for internet, and approximately €75 for study materials and miscellaneous needs. Although tuition may not be a major financial burden, these living costs can quickly accumulate. It's also important to remember that cities like Munich and Frankfurt tend to have a much higher cost of living compared to smaller or mid-sized cities such as Leipzig or Dresden. Careful budgeting and smart planning can go a long way in helping international students enjoy their academic journey in Germany without financial stress. Several scholarships available in 2025 can significantly reduce or even cover living costs for Indian students: – DAAD Scholarships: Fully funded for Master's and PhD students, offering around €934/month for Master's and €1,300/month for PhDs, covering tuition, travel, insurance, and accommodation. – Heinrich Böll Foundation: Grants between €850–€1,200/month, including health insurance and travel allowances. – Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS): Supports Master's and PhD students with stipends of about €934–€1,200/month, plus health and family benefits. – Friedrich Ebert Foundation: Offers up to €1,350/month, including living and health costs. – Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung: Provides around €1,350/month, with additional research or travel support. – Deutschlandstipendium: A merit-based scholarship offering €300/month for high-achieving students. Additionally, Bayer Foundation, Heidelberg University, RWTH Aachen, TUM, Hamburg University, and others offer university-based scholarships and fellowships ranging from €300/month up to €10,000/year, especially in STEM and research fields Where and how you live will have a major impact on your budget. Students typically choose one of the following housing options: – Student Residences (Wohnheim): €250–€400/month Managed by the Studentenwerk, these are often the most affordable and conveniently located. – Shared Flats (Wohngemeinschaft or WG): €300–€600/month A popular choice, WG living allows you to share costs and space with other students. – Private Rentals: €925–€1,300/month Renting a one-bedroom flat in major cities is the most expensive option. – Transportation: Affordable and Accessible Many universities offer a semester ticket, a public transit pass included in your tuition or student fees that allows for unlimited local travel. If your school doesn't include this, or you want to explore beyond your city, the Deutschland-Ticket offers nationwide local train and public transport access for a monthly fee. Some institutions even offer this ticket at a discounted student rate. All international students must have valid health insurance in Germany. The type depends on your age and program: – Public Health Insurance: €140–€150/month Available for students under 30 enrolled in degree programs. – Private Health Insurance: Varies Required for students over 30 or those in non-degree programs like language courses. Some students may also need travel insurance, which can often be bundled with their visa application for free. Students typically spend €150 to €250 per month on groceries. Discount supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl, Netto, and Penny offer quality food at lower prices. On-campus dining is budget-friendly too. Meals at Mensa (university cafeterias) usually cost between €2.50 and €5. However, keep in mind that some Mensas only operate during breakfast and lunch hours. To apply for a German student visa, most non-EU international students must show proof of funds. This is done through a Sperrkonto (blocked account): Required Deposit: €11,904 (as of 2025) – Monthly Disbursement: €992 This ensures students have enough money to support themselves and serves as a financial safety net during their studies. – Smart Budgeting Tips To make the most of your budget while studying in Germany, it's important to adopt a few smart financial habits. Sharing your living space, such as renting a room in a shared flat or student residence can significantly reduce your monthly rent. Cooking meals at home instead of dining out frequently not only saves money but also allows you to eat healthier. Take advantage of student discounts wherever possible, whether it's for public transportation, groceries, or entertainment. Keeping track of your expenses through budgeting apps or simple spreadsheets can help you stay on top of your spending and avoid surprises. And if your visa conditions allow, working part-time is a great way to supplement your income and cover some of your day-to-day costs. Together, these small adjustments can make a big difference in managing your living expenses effectively. By planning ahead and budgeting wisely, you'll not only meet visa requirements but also enjoy a more balanced and enriching study abroad experience. (The author is the head of emerging markets, ApplyBoard)
Indian Express
12 minutes ago
- Indian Express
North Block is leaving the building, with files, stationery and nostalgia
In its 94-year existence, North Block has seen a lot. It was the seat of power of the colonial British government, the site of spontaneous celebrations when India became Independent in 1947, and, ever since, has been a witness to successive governments shaping policy for the nation. These days, however, the corridors of the building are nearly deserted, with sections roped off, and locks hanging on doors that till recently hid a flurry of activity. The building is in the process of being emptied as part of the government's plan to redevelop the Central Vista area – the stretch from India Gate to Rashtrapati Bhawan. North Block now is to be repurposed as a museum, with key ministries that have operated out of it since 1931 when its construction finished – including Union Ministries of Home Affairs and Finance, and the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) – to be moved to a set of 'Kartavya Bhawan' buildings down the road. However, the work of shifting a government can't be hurried up. And in this case is being coordinated by a ministry – Housing and Urban Affairs, which is also spearheading the Central Vista redevelopment. Other ministries have appointed a nodal officer each for the exercise, which began around a month ago. Under their watch, files are being sorted into marked boxes, computers are being packed, and office supplies are going into cardboard containers. Artwork, including many, many photographs of Mahatma Gandhi, is being bubble-wrapped. The packing is being done by office staff, aided by a team of workers hired for the job. Once packed, the boxes are carried by workers down the stairs to a side entrance, and loaded onto tempos and government cars. These then cover the short distance to the new address. An official working in North Block says the move has been fairly smooth so far, particularly when it comes to files, given that nearly all, save the sensitive ones, are now on the government's E-Office portal. Officials in the know say the DoPT has almost entirely moved out. Jitendra Singh, the Minister of State for Prime Ministers' Office, Science and Technology and Personnel, is expected to shift soon, sources said. The Home Ministry has been allotted Kartavya Bhawan 3, and Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan and the Intelligence Bureau were some of the first ones to shift. According to sources, the shifting of some offices to KB3, as the building is referred to, began before its formal inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 6. The Finance Ministry, however, is yet to begin shifting. An officer in the middle of shifting says: 'I'm soaking in the last few days at this building. Many of my former colleagues who have worked here have been dropping by to see the offices one last time.' Like the South Block that stands across it, North Block, designed by British architect Herbert Baker in red sandstone, incorporating Indian features like jaali, chajja and chhattri, is as much a regal structure as a functional one, with plenty of light and ventilation. The new buildings, in comparison, look like any modern corporate office, with glass cabins for officers, open plan seating for most employees and access-control systems. Offices in the South Block, which houses the Prime Minister's Office and the Ministries of Defence and External Affairs, have not started moving out yet. Once both the buildings are emptied, they are to be restored and refurbished, before reopening as Yuge Yugeen National Museum. The government claims it will be the largest museum in the world. The 'charm' of North Block is what those who have worked here keep coming back to in conversations. G K Pillai, who spent seven years in North Block, first as Joint Secretary from 1996 to 2001 and then as Union Home Secretary from 2009 to 2011, recalls the sense of history that permeates the rooms. 'Stalwarts, including Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, worked here. Old-timers would tell us about important meetings that took place in the past,' Pillai, who is now retired, says. The former IAS officer adds that he personally believes that not all the ministries from North Block and South Block should have been shifted to the new quarters. 'Some of them could have stayed. The next generation of officers will lose that sense of history,' says Pillai. Durga Shanker Mishra, a 1984-batch IAS officer who retired as Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary last year, recalls his time in a ground-floor North Block office as Director (Personnel) in the Home Ministry in 2002-2004. 'I have good memories of that office. Though I was a director in Home, I had been given a room on the Finance Ministry's side. It was a well-sized room.' However, Mishra says: 'As is the case with old buildings, there were challenges. It needed more maintenance over the years.' As Secretary, Housing and Urban Affairs, Mishra was, in fact, part of the deliberations when the Central Vista project was planned and started. He says the new Central Secretariat buildings will change the way the government works, in terms of efficiency and coordination. In fact, while senior officers – who along with ministers had large airy offices – are understandably nostalgic about the high-ceilinged large rooms that they are leaving behind, not all in the North Block will regret the change. A majority of its employees worked in cramped spaces, with partitions created within dingy rooms to accommodate more officials over the years. Mezzanine levels were also added to create space, with the temporary additions doubling the number of rooms in both North and South Blocks over the years. A section official says: 'We are looking forward to the new building. I've heard that the canteen is very nice.' But true to form, the open-plan layout of the new Secretariat also has its share of detractors. On August 5, the Central Secretariat Service Forum, which represents around 13,000 employees, wrote a letter to the Prime Minister's Office expressing concerns about 'the lack of privacy and confidentiality' in the new arrangement.
Time of India
16 minutes ago
- Time of India
Nitin Gadkari promises single-digit logistics cost in India by 2026
Advt Join the community of 2M+ industry professionals. Subscribe to Newsletter to get latest insights & analysis in your inbox. Get updates on your preferred social platform Follow us for the latest news, insider access to events and more. Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari , on Sunday affirmed that India's logistics cost will come down to single-digit by the end of logistics cost of India is 14-16 per cent, China's is 8 per cent, and Europe and America have 12 per cent each, Gadkari said, addressing the event in the national capital that marked the inauguration of two major National Highway projects by Prime Minister Narendra Modi."I want to assure the Prime Minister and all of you that before the end of 2026, the logistics cost of our country will come in the single digits, which will be very important for our exports. We will become even more competitive," the Minister said. Prime Minister Modi today inaugurated two major National Highway projects worth a combined cost of nearly ₹11,000 projects -- the Delhi section of the Dwarka Expressway and the Urban Extension Road-II (UER-II) -- have been developed under the Government's comprehensive plan to decongest the capital, with the objective of greatly improving connectivity, cutting travel time, and reducing traffic in Delhi and its surrounding 10.1 km long Delhi section of Dwarka Expressway has been developed at a cost of around Rs. 5,360 crore. The section will also provide Multi-modal connectivity to Yashobhoomi, DMRC Blue line and Orange line, the upcoming Bijwasan railway station and the Dwarka cluster Bus Depot. This section comprises:The Prime Minister earlier inaugurated the 19 km long Haryana section of the Dwarka Expressway in March Minister also inaugurated the Alipur to Dichaon Kalan stretch of Urban Extension Road-II (UER-II) along with new links to Bahadurgarh and Sonipat, built at a cost of around ₹5,580 will ease traffic on Delhi's Inner and Outer Ring Roads and busy points like Mukarba Chowk, Dhaula Kuan, and NH-09. The new spurs will provide direct access to Bahadurgarh and Sonipat, enhance industrial connectivity, reduce city traffic, and expedite goods movement in the NCR.... With both these projects, the people of Delhi NCR will get great relief from traffic jams. If I say that the problem of 50 per cent traffic jam in Delhi will be reduced due to these highways, I think it will not be surprising," Union Minister Gadkari said.
