Latest news with #An
Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
Indian Army tests next-gen military tech in Pokhran, Agra, Joshimath to simulate future battlefield scenarios
The Indian Army is conducting large-scale capacity development demonstrations at key locations including Pokhran, Babina, and Joshimath, with dedicated air defence trials in Agra and Gopalpur. These field trials aim to evaluate new-age battlefield technologies under near-combat conditions, including integrated electronic warfare (EW) simulations. As part of its 'Decade of Transformation,' the Army is fast-tracking the absorption of cutting-edge defence platforms developed under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. These trials are seen as critical to strengthening India's technological edge and ensuring operational readiness for emerging military threats. Play Video Play Skip Backward Skip Forward Mute Current Time 0:00 / Duration 0:00 Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 1x Playback Rate Chapters Chapters Descriptions descriptions off , selected Captions captions settings , opens captions settings dialog captions off , selected Audio Track Picture-in-Picture Fullscreen This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Text Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Caption Area Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Drop shadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An Phu Dong: Unsold Furniture Liquidation 2024 (Prices May Surprise You) Unsold Furniture | Search Ads Learn More Next gen tech: Which systems are being tested by the Army? The Ministry of Defence has outlined a wide range of indigenous technologies under evaluation, including: Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) UAV-Launched Precision Guided Munitions (ULPGM) Runway-Independent Remotely Piloted Aerial Systems (RPAS) Counter-UAS Solutions Loitering Munitions Specialised Vertical Launch (SVL) Drones Precision Multi-Munition Delivery Systems Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction Systems (IDDIS) Low-Level Light-Weight Radars VSHORADS (Next-Gen Infrared Systems) Advanced Electronic Warfare Platforms Live Events Earlier this week, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi visited Babina Field Firing Ranges to review the trials and interact with Army personnel and defence industry stakeholders. The demonstrations reflect growing synergy between the Army and India's private defence sector. CDS Chauhan: Indigenous backbone crucial for networked warfare Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan, speaking on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on Saturday, had emphasised India's self-reliant defence systems. Highlighting Operation Sindoor , he said India successfully used indigenously developed systems like the Akash missile and built its own air defence networking infrastructure. 'We've integrated radars from multiple sources—both Indian and foreign—into a cohesive network across the country without relying on external vendors. This was crucial for our defence posture during recent operations,' Chauhan said. He also noted the increasing convergence of warfare domains: 'Modern conflict demands integration of air, land, sea, cyber, and space. We're shifting from large, static platforms to distributed, deceptive and non-linear strategies.' 'India is ahead of Pakistan on all fronts': CDS Chauhan In a candid assessment, CDS Chauhan contrasted India's strategic evolution with Pakistan's stagnation. 'When we gained independence, Pakistan was ahead in several metrics—GDP per capita, social indicators, economic performance. But today, India is ahead on all fronts—military capability, economic power, social harmony. That's a result of deliberate long-term strategy,' he said. He further stated that while Pakistan likely sought Chinese or commercial satellite imagery during Operation Sindoor, there is no confirmation of real-time targeting support. 'India relied on its own satellite and electronic systems. Our response during the operation was swift and effective, with no further losses beyond the initial strike.' Chauhan argued that India's preference for disengagement after decisive military actions is rooted in economic logic. 'Prolonged mobilisations are expensive. Our aim is decisive, short operations that avoid long-term disruptions to national development.' The trials and strategic posture echo India's growing focus on readiness for high-technology warfare . CDS Chauhan highlighted the role of Indian academia, startups, and private industry in pushing the innovation envelope. 'We produce the largest number of STEM graduates globally. Give them a defence problem, and you'll have hundreds working on it. That's an untapped advantage we must harness," said CDS Chauhan.
Straits Times
3 days ago
- Sport
- Straits Times
Loh Kean Yew out of KFF Singapore Open after q-final defeat by Christo Popov
Singapore's Loh Kean Yew in the last-16 win over Toma Junior Popov at the KFF Singapore Open on May 29. ST PHOTO: NG SOR LUAN SINGAPORE – With a shake of the head, local hopeful Loh Kean Yew rued a missed opportunity to match his best finish at the US$1 million (S$1.29 million) KFF Singapore Open, after he lost 21-10, 21-14 to 23rd-ranked Christo Popov in the quarter-finals on May 30. The 23-year-old Frenchman has been in fine form after eliminating Denmark's world No. 3 Anders Antonsen and India's 34th-ranked H. S. Prannoy in the earlier rounds of the Super 750 event at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. He will face Lu Guangzu in the semi-finals on May 31, after the 15th-ranked Chinese overcame Japan's world No. 7 Kodai Naraoka 19-21, 21-17, 21-12. Popov, a southpaw, had also beaten world No. 10 Loh in the last 16 of the 2023 KFF Singapore Open, and his latest win not only took their head-to-head record to 3-3 but also avenged older brother Toma Junior's last-16 loss to the Singaporean the previous day. Loh, who reached the semi-finals in 2022 and quarter-finals in 2024, will collect a cheque for US$5,500 and turn his attention to the June 3-8 Indonesia Open. Meanwhile, in the clash of two Olympic gold medallists in the women's singles quarter-finals, defending champion and world No. 1 An Se-young saw her unbeaten start to 2025 end at 27 matches when she lost 21-13, 21-16 to China's fifth-ranked Chen Yufei. An's last-16 match the previous day had ended much later than Chen's. When asked if that had affected her, the Paris 2024 champion agreed, but did not want to make that an excuse. The 23-year-old South Korean said: 'I could not get back my condition since yesterday's match. As a professional athlete, I have to focus on every single match. But today, I couldn't, so that was my problem. 'I am definitely not satisfied with the loss. However, this is not the end of the season so I need to improve to fight against my opponents for the rest of the season.' After exacting revenge for losing the 2024 KFF Singapore Open final in three games to An, Chen will take on compatriot Han Yue in the final four after the world No. 4 beat Japan's 20th-ranked Natsuki Nidaira 21-17, 21-15. World No. 2 Wang Zhiyi is also through after overcoming Thailand's seventh-ranked Pornpawee Chochuwong 21-17, 21-19. She will meet Japan's world No. 3 Akane Yamaguchi, who prevailed 21-15, 22-20 over 18th-ranked Canadian Michelle Li and will attempt to prevent an all-China final. Tokyo 2020 champion Chen had taken a six-month break from the sport to learn English and recover physically and mentally after the Paris 2024 Olympics. But her win was not a surprise given her 13-11 head-to-head record against An, who struggled against her opponent's prowess at the net in the first game and fine judgment of clears to the back court in the second game. Explaining her post-match celebration in which she put a finger to her lips, Chen said it was in response to criticism of the Chinese women's singles players after An had beaten Chen (twice), Wang and 14th-ranked Gao Fangjie (thrice each) this year. The 27-year-old said: 'There were many doubts over our ability. But previously, I had not recovered completely, and now that I have, I feel I have the ability to compete with her. 'There is no need to belittle anyone, or our singles players, because I believe we are working hard together to improve and try to beat every opponent. 'I also can't say I'm back to my peak because of just this match. She may not have played well, or there may be issues with her condition today. But such is competitive sports, I can only stay grounded and take one match at a time, prepare fully, and do my part well.' David Lee is senior sports correspondent at The Straits Times focusing on aquatics, badminton, basketball, cue sports, football and table tennis. Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
Gulf Today
5 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
Trust in traditional media in UAE remains strong, says Raed Barqawi
The 23rd edition of the Arab Media Summit (AMS) served as a vital dialogue platform to explore the role of professional journalism in addressing the challenges of the modern era, most notably, artificial intelligence and the digital explosion, amid the rapid transformations shaping the global media landscape. Media professionals from diverse organisations emphasised the importance of crafting a comprehensive vision for the future of Arab media and strategies for its development. They also highlighted the pioneering nature of the UAE's media experience, which has become a reference point in the region. Raed Barqawi, Editor-in-Chief, Al Khaleej Newspaper, told presenters that the media landscape has undergone fundamental shifts in recent years. These changes began with the rise of digital media, which opened the door to a wide range of influencers, many of whom operate without necessarily adhering to established professional standards. Barqawi also praised the progress of UAE media, noting that media outlets in the country have demonstrated excellence in leveraging modern technologies, including artificial intelligence, video production, and multi-platform applications. He emphasised that this advancement reflects the UAE's commitment to innovation and its leading role in shaping the future of regional media. Barqawi pointed out that journalism is a sacred profession with a responsibility and a significant role in people's lives. Digital transformations have strengthened this role, especially for journalists and the new tools available to them. Barqawi said that when a journalist shifts from being a professional to being a mere employee, he or she falls and fails, and must bear the responsibility of his or her words. This is because we are facing a new generation of readers who want fast food and everything fast. Here, the journalist's role is to provide valuable content so that we do not reach generations of superficial people. Everything we offer is food for the mind, an evolution of the Press. The Executive Editor-in-Chief of Al Khaleej newspaper emphasized that traditional professional media has largely succeeded in keeping pace with transformations and establishing a presence in the virtual world, including social media platforms. It remains the trusted source of news, he noted, citing the results of the Edelman Trust Index, which confirmed that trust in traditional media in the UAE remains strong at 59%. Regarding access to readers, Barqawi noted that media today can reach millions of followers anywhere in the world. He emphasized that the measure of any newspaper's success is not the abundance of news broadcasts, but rather the diversity and direction of its content. He emphasized that followers of any professional media outlet on social media platforms are real followers, as professional media outlets do not purchase followers, likes, or views, as happens with some "influencers." Nayla Tueni, Chief Executive Officer and editor-in-chief, An-Nahar and Annahar Arabi at Annahar media group, noted that challenges in the media sector are not new. 'Media has always faced obstacles throughout the decades, as the world is in constant flux and technological advancement never stops,' she said. She added, 'For over 90 years, the world has undergone continuous transformation, with each era bringing a new wave of innovation. As journalists and media institutions, we must keep pace with these changes and evolve accordingly. Today's challenges go beyond technology; they include financial and logistical hurdles as well.' Tueni stressed the importance of adapting to these changes and learning how to navigate them to deliver quality content to a diverse audience spanning all age groups. She noted that An-Nahar remains committed to its print edition but ensures its content is renewed and aligned with contemporary demands. The Arab Media Summit, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and under the directives of Sheikh Ahmed Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, the Arab Media Summit is the Middle East and North Africa region's largest media thought leadership platform. Organised by the Dubai Press Club, the 2025 edition brings together over 8,000 participants and 300 speakers from the Arab world and beyond, across more than 175 sessions and 35 workshops.
Economic Times
7 days ago
- Business
- Economic Times
City city, bang bang: Revamping city boundaries will reveal true growth, aid economies and enable smarter planning
Urban legend NITI Aayog is preparing a framework for reviewing city boundaries, considering economic indicators and land use as the key redefinition criteria. This is welcome. Our definition of urbanisation is conservative, based on a combination of 'and criteria', including a minimum population of 5,000, a population density of 400 persons per sq km of land area, and 75% male main non-agricultural employment. The US, Britain and Australia define their urban areas based on population: Australia (1,000 inhabitants or more), Britain (1,000+ inhabitants) and the US (2,500+ inhabitants). Asian countries, including Japan and Malaysia, and African countries such as Zimbabwe, define urbanisation based on employment in non-farm pursuits, the criteria of which range in these countries from 50% to 60%, in addition to population. So, 75% non-agricultural employment of males, in addition to population and population density as criteria, is restrictive. In post-Independence India, which was agricultural, such a definition made sense. But not in Viksit India. A study - Reclassifying Urban Areas in India: An Analysis of 2011 - published in Area Development and Policy (ADP) in 2020, performed simulations of what would happen to 6,40,947 villages in 2011 if more relaxed criteria were applied for defining urbanisation. Several alternative scenarios were examined for studying scenarios relating to changes in the criteria relating to the share of the population engaged in non- agricultural pursuits, the inclusion of female alongside male employment in calculating the share of non-agricultural employment, and the use of one of the three criteria (rather than together, as is currently done). Under the most relaxed definition - counting any village with a population density of at least 400 persons per sq km as urban - the study found that India would be 69% urban if all states were included. This is consistent with Economic Survey of 2017, which, using satellite data from Global Human Settlement Layer (GHSL), found that India was 63% urban in 2015, more than double the urbanisation rate estimated by Census all male (instead of only full-time male employment, as currently considered) and female non-agricultural employment greater than or equal to 75% was considered as the only criterion for defining urbanisation in the ADP study, it was found that half of India would have been urban as of 2011. If only a population greater than or equal to 5,000 were the sole criterion, 51% of India would have been urban. There is a steep and positive relationship between urbanisation and per-capita income, the evidence being that few countries have attained a per-capita income of $10,000 without at least becoming 60% urban. But our per-capita income is way below $10,000, which demonstrates systemic inefficiencies in urban infrastructure in unleashing the economic output of cities. So, it is important to identify their economic specialisation and target infrastructure towards those areas. Rightly, NITI Aayog is envisaging policies to promote industry and services, and lay emphasis on new growth avenues, including tourism, real estate and healthcare. A study - Economic Change and Specialisation in India's Cities in Review of Urban and Regional Development Policy in 2017 - used standard and well-known techniques, such as location quotients (LQ) and shift share analyses, to understand the economic specialisation of cities. It found that on average, over 1991-2001, cities' specialisation in all sectors, except for trade, average, over 1991-2001, Indian cities' specialisation in manufacturing, whether household-based or non- household, decreased, which was seen in the decreasing value of the average LQ for these sectors when either the state or all of India was taken as reference. Further, there was evidence of persistence in the sectoral specialisation of cities (1991-2001).One way to understand if cities with a certain core advantage had retained the same specialisation a decade later was to examine correlations between LQs in 1991 and 2001 for every sector, using both the state and all-India as reference regions separately. These correlations were all strong and positive, with the highest correlations for trade and commerce (with the state as the reference region) and household-based manufacturing and fishing (when all of India is taken as the reference region).This shows that specialisation advantages have persisted over time in cities in most sectors. Further, in all non-agricultural economic sectors, cities in backward states were specialised in most sectors, even though no single city retained its specialisation during the 1991-2001 decade in any sector. It was found that financial intermediation, real estate, renting and business services had the highest LQ of all sectors in most of the selected cities, except for there are two suggestions: We must understand our urbanisation rate locally with servers based in our own country. We should have our satellite datasets for determining urbanisation, which would be more authentic, as our municipal boundaries can be used. That would be Viksit India's definition of urbanisation. We should nurture cities' areas of economic specialisation based on the use of standard analytical tools and techniques available to understand the same, and it would help greatly if Census 2021 can publish the data soon. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this column are that of the writer. The facts and opinions expressed here do not reflect the views of Elevate your knowledge and leadership skills at a cost cheaper than your daily tea. 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Malaysia Sun
24-05-2025
- Sport
- Malaysia Sun
Amateur An cements legacy with Sichuan win
CHENGDU, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Chinese amateur An Zining captured her first title against a pro field on Friday as the Tianjin teenager closed with a scorching seven-under 65 to win the inaugural China Golf Women's Legacy event by two strokes in the Sichuan capital. After starting the day two shots off the lead at the 500,000 yuan CLPG Tour stop, the 16-year-old An, a three-time winner on the China amateur circuit last year, finished with a 54-hole score of 15-under 201 at Poly Chengdu Golf Club. Her round included four birdies on the front nine, followed by five straight birdies to start the back nine. She then carded bogeys at the 15th and the last in only her third appearance in a CLPG Tour event. "My caddie only told me I had a three-shot lead when approaching the final green. I was quite surprised at that moment," said An, 457th in the World Amateur Golf Ranking. "I started strong today, felt solid for most of the round. A few slips toward the end but overall it's a performance I can accept." In the tournament that featured 78 professionals and 26 amateurs playing in a dual individual-and-team format, Lin Xin'en (67) claimed the 75,000 winner's purse for finishing equal runner-up with amateurs Sophie Han Zilin (68), Zhou Shiyuan (68) and Wang Xinyu (67). Overnight leader Pan Yanhong was equal ninth at four shots back after faltering down the stretch to a one-under 71. Lin, a second-year pro from Guangzhou, was understandably thrilled to collect the winner's purse. Her round included six birdies and a bogey. "During the last two events, I was still fighting to make the cut and now I've earned my second runner-up. This check also happens to be the biggest payday of my career so far," said the Shenzhen University student. "The turning point came after realizing I'd been playing too cautiously in the previous two tournaments. This time I put in extra work and honestly assessed where I needed to improve. This is absolutely the ideal outcome." Zhou, one of the opening round co-leaders, lamented a missed opportunity to pick up her third CLPG Tour title. Starting the day one shot off the lead, the Chongqing teenager bogeyed the opening hole before settling to make four birdies, three of which came on the back nine. "I was too steady and not aggressive enough. Just couldn't make enough birdies. I'm disappointed with my game, especially that second round which really held me back." Hong Kong native Han was another disappointed with her final-round performance. The 17-year-old's card included six birdies and two bogeys. "On the final hole, for the third straight day, I had 200 yards in and again flew over the green. Really frustrating not to convert those birdie chances," she said. Thai veteran Onkanok Soisuwan (68) carded a hole-in-one at the 150-yard 16th hole when her perfect shot with an eight-iron hit the fringe of the green and rolled into the cup. For her fifth lifetime ace, the Bangkok native received a GolfJoy golf simulator valued at 299,000 yuan. Winnie Ng (67) also got a hole-in-one when the Malaysian aced the 185-yard third hole, her first in a competition. In the team event, where the pros partnered with junior amateurs, Team Zhou Shiyuan topped the leaderboard on day three with a two-stroke win on a score of 22-under 194. Amateur Liu Yujie carded a personal best nine-under 63 to lead the foursome featuring fellow amateur Zhou (68) and Thai veterans Prima Thammaraks (68) and Naphatsawan Pabsimma (71). "This team victory is definitely not my achievement alone. I'm incredibly proud and happy. All four of us played exceptionally well. There's no way we could've reached 22-under otherwise," said Liu, 129th in the World Amateur Golf Ranking. "After finishing one stroke short yesterday, I made slight adjustments to my strategy today. It paid off. I matched my personal best score, which also happens to be my lowest round ever on the China LPG Tour."
