Latest news with #Bansal
Time of India
2 days ago
- General
- Time of India
DMC sets up command centre to integrate doorstep waste collection
Dehradun: To strengthen door-to-door garbage collection and streamline waste management in Uttarakhand's capital city, Dehradun Municipal Corporation (DMC) is setting up an integrated command and control centre (ICCC), based on the Indore model, to closely monitor the process and track garbage movement to processing plants. Officials said final logistics are being put in place and the ICCC will become operational this week. It will be managed by DMC and can eventually be used for dengue monitoring, fogging, as well as monitoring waterlogging and flooding during monsoon, officials said. "So far, the project monitoring companies have been separately tracking their own sections and movement of waste collection vehicles in their respective areas. Legacy sites and waste processing have also been monitored separately. With the ICCC, we hope to bring all of this under one roof and integrate door-to-door waste collection, transport to processing plants or even source segregation, which is going to be our next focus," said municipal commissioner Namami Bansal, adding that software support was outsourced and is the same as that of Indore. "This tech-based model will ensure real-time monitoring and no manipulation of data by any third party. Our vehicles are supposed to be on their way by 7am. And by 9am, we will know what routes are not being covered or where more manpower is required, and corrective steps can be taken to ensure the public is not inconvenienced," Bansal said. Notably, Dehradun produces upwards of 450 tonnes of garbage daily and has not performed well in Swachh Survekshan rankings in the past. Officials said these changes hope to rectify that and will also address the problem of erratic waste collection in the city. In certain areas such as Mohkampur, Dharampur, Doon Vihar and Kishanpur, garbage collection remains irregular. Third-party companies have also gone on frequent strikes, following which DMC took over the door-to-door waste collection in Feb this year. Since then, the corporation has increased the number of collection vehicles to over 250, with CUG numbers issued to drivers for better coordination with residents. Officials also claim that waste collection has risen to 80% from 46% earlier since the takeover, while the aim is 100% waste collection from households and all public places.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
7.3cr fraud: Man who gave docus to open mule a/c held
1 2 Mumbai: A Chembur resident was recently arrested by south region cyber police in a Rs 7.3-crore investment fraud case for allegedly allowing his address to be used to open a bank account for a shell company to which part of the money was diverted. The victim, a 63-year-old south Mumbai businessman, was shown profits of Rs 31 crore in a virtual wallet. Police said the fraudsters asked the suspect, Rahul Gawli (41), to visit Goa, where they opened a bank account in a fake company's name and used his and another accused's documents for it. Gawli was assured of a monthly pay in exchange. The gang operated the company's account, to which the complainant sent Rs 5 lakh. The complainant lodged a police complaint on May 17 stating that he was added to a WhatsApp group through a link in Feb. A woman, Riya Bansal, and some other gang members pretended to be representatives of a private company that manages the portfolios of investors. In a WhatsApp message, Bansal told the businessman that they would invest his money in the primary market and that he would stand to earn huge profits. The man wanted to open an account in his daughter's name. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Providers are furious: Internet access without a subscription! Techno Mag Learn More Undo So, he sent her details to Bansal. Later, Bansal sent him a registration form, which had a fake Sebi number of the company. He was assured of a 10% monthly profit and was later added to another group for high-end customers. You Can Also Check: Mumbai AQI | Weather in Mumbai | Bank Holidays in Mumbai | Public Holidays in Mumbai This group's administrator asked him to download a trading app. The businessman was asked to send money to different bank accounts. From March 7-May 6, he deposited Rs 7.3 crore. The complainant withdrew Rs 28 lakh, but when he tried to do it again, he failed. Bansal then told him he would have to pay an additional Rs 3.7 crore to withdraw money. This is when he realised he had been conned and approached police. A team comprising senior inspector Nankumar Gopale and inspector Suresh Bhoye is probing the case.
NDTV
3 days ago
- Health
- NDTV
Can A 500-Rupee Chewing Gum Replace Your Morning Coffee To Beat Brain Fog? What Doctors Say
In today's digital age, with more and more people using social media, doomscrolling has become the new norm. Brain fog, brain rot, and constant fatigue sound like the new normal. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, join the club. This rise in such problems has created a market now flooded with products - and the latest trend, it seems, is supplements or gummies for your brain. If you're scrolling through Instagram and spot a shiny little box of 15 Neurogum gummies (or its gummy cousin) promising laser-sharp focus, boosted energy, and mental clarity for just Rs 500... you're not alone. This brain-boosting supplement shot to fame after appearing on Shark Tank US, where the founders shared that it had become a success within just four years of launch. They even claim it can replace your coffee, with one gummy containing caffeine worth more than half a cup of coffee. Now, after making a mark in the US market, it has finally entered the Indian space (as the company advertises). In fact, various brands have now introduced similar brain supplements that promise to tackle all the issues mentioned above. But are these chewable brain buddies truly worth the hype - or just cleverly marketed, sweet-tasting placebos? We decided to chew over the claims with some experts. What's In These Neurogummies? A quick analysis of the ingredients list made us realise that Neurogum and Neurogummies typically contain a blend of ingredients like L-Theanine, Caffeine, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, and sometimes Ginseng. The demand for Neurogummies is increasing in India. These brands also boast of being sugar-free, vegan and free from artificial sweeteners like aspartame. "They May Help... But Only If You Need Help" Dr Jaideep Bansal, Senior Director and HOD, Neurology at Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, Delhi, says "Neurogummies are chewable supplements. Most healthy people don't need them." According to him, these supplements may only be useful if your body is deficient in key vitamins like B12. And unless you've been tested and diagnosed with a deficiency, popping these daily won't turn you into a productivity machine. Experts also say that many people misdiagnose their own mental fogginess. "Brain fog is often caused by stress, poor sleep, or dehydration - not just vitamin deficiencies," he points out. The combo of L-Theanine (a calming compound found in green tea) and caffeine (the beloved fuel of the sleep-deprived) does have some short-term science backing. "Caffeine helps you stay alert, and L-Theanine keeps you calm. Together, they can improve focus and reduce jitteriness. But the effect is short-term," says Dr Bansal. So, yes, you might be super productive for that one Zoom call. Just don't expect it to solve anything else. Dr SS Nandi, Neurologist at CMRI Kolkata, also feels that the rising popularity of neurogummies is a bit premature. "There's been a steep rise in the consumption of neurogummies for improving brain health," he says. He's not sold yet. "From a neurologist's point of view, I believe more research is required. We need to understand the mechanisms and reasoning behind these benefits before recommending widespread consumption," he explains. He also flags something particularly important for Indian consumers. "Different countries have different food habits and environments. So more research, followed by professional consultation, is essential to know how these offerings can benefit each person," Dr Nandi says. In simple terms, what works for a tech bro in California might not be what your chai-sipping brain needs in Bengaluru. B Vitamins: Don't Overdose Vitamin B6 and B12 are important for nerve and brain function. But more doesn't necessarily mean better. "If you're deficient, these can help with tiredness or poor memory. But if your levels are already fine, taking extra won't give your brain superpowers," Dr Jaideep Bansal warns. In fact, overdoing it can lead to hypervitaminosis, a potentially harmful condition. The Ginseng Question Some variants of neurogummies include Ginseng, the herb which is trending furiously right now, thanks to the South Korean beauty industry. Now, some are also claiming that it improves brain function. Dr Bansal explains, "Some small studies suggest Ginseng might improve memory and mental performance - especially in older adults. But the results aren't strong or consistent. It's not a magic brain booster and can interact with other medicines." So, if you're already taking medication for blood pressure, diabetes, or mental health - do not go rogue with Ginseng-laced gummies. Ask your doctor first. Due to its easy to pop and chew format, it might be easy to pop more than just one. So, Should You Spend Your Money On Neurogummies? Let's be honest - the packaging is great. And the promise of peak productivity in one chew and replace that morning coffee is very tempting. The fact that it's not burning a crater in your pocket is great too. But doctors aren't exactly thrilled about everyone jumping on the gummy bandwagon. Dr Bansal reminds us of the basics: "There are better, proven ways to support your brain." Here are some according to experts: Get 7-8 hours of sleep: It helps your brain rest, improves concentration, and boosts long-term memory. Eat a healthy diet: Load up on fruits, veggies, nuts, whole grains and fish. Avoid white sugar and refined wheat. Exercise regularly: It improves blood flow to the brain and your overall mood. Manage stress: Breathing exercises and meditation can reduce mental fatigue. Keep learning: Read, write, do puzzles, and socialise - it keeps your mind sharp. Stay hydrated: Even slight dehydration can make you sluggish and unfocused - especially during physical work or summer heat. Final Bite Are neurogummies dangerous? Not necessarily. Are they essential? Also, not really. They might give you a small boost on a day when you're dragging, but they're not a substitute for real brain care. If you're already eating well, sleeping enough, moving your body, and drinking that water, then chances are your brain's doing just fine. With or without that coffee (or gummy).
Time of India
4 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Using UPI data, govt cracks down on unregistered traders to boost GST revenue
Bengaluru: In a significant move to increase tax collections, the govt has begun using Unified Payments Interface (UPI) data to identify traders, especially those accepting payments via QR codes, who have evaded goods and services tax (GST) registration. After analysing UPI transactions, the commercial taxes department recently issued notices to some 14,000 traders. Officials say these individuals have crossed the mandatory GST registration thresholds but failed to register. Under GST rules, traders selling goods with an annual turnover above Rs 40 lakh or offering services above Rs 20 lakh are required to register. Those with turnover below Rs 1.5 crore can opt for the composite scheme, paying 1% tax without availing input tax credit. Vipul Bansal, commissioner, commercial taxes, said the crackdown is not just about revenue but fairness. You Can Also Check: Bengaluru AQI | Weather in Bengaluru | Bank Holidays in Bengaluru | Public Holidays in Bengaluru "While the drive would help us ramp up tax revenue, the main objective is to get those who evade taxes to pay up. They too should abide by the law. It is also fair to those who are already paying tax," Bansal said. Currently, the state has about 10.3 lakh traders registered under GST. Officials estimate that at least another one lakh will be added through this enforcement drive. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like What Is a Family Trust, and How Do You Set One Up? SmartAsset Learn More Undo This move is seen as critical to meeting the govt's ambitious commercial tax target of Rs 1.2 lakh crore this fiscal. So far, only Rs 26,241 crore has been collected, indicating a 13% shortfall. Taxing unregistered businesses could yield an additional Rs 10,000 crore. However, the enforcement has caused concern among small business owners, particularly grocery stores, bakeries, and vegetable vendors. Many have reported being asked to pay tax arrears dating back to 2021, with liabilities ranging from Rs 40 lakh to Rs 50 lakh — amounts they say are unmanageable in one go. "The govt's move is welcome and its intent unquestionable," said trade activist Sajjan Raj Mehta. "But it should not lead to harassment from tax officials as most traders tracked through UPI are small businessmen. The govt should be considerate to them." Traders argue that not all UPI transactions reflect business income, citing personal payments and fund transfers. However, officials say only traders receiving over Rs 40 lakh through UPI were targeted, and that these digital payments likely underestimate total turnover, which could include cash and card sales as well. BT Manohar, a member of Karnataka State GST Advisory Council, emphasised the need for fairness. "The drive has spread awareness among traders about GST rules and there is no denying that those liable must pay tax," he said. "If there are personal payments through UPI other than business transactions, then traders should be given the opportunity to present their case." The govt has clarified that hawkers and sales of exempted goods like bread will remain outside the GST ambit. Only sales of taxable goods, including items attracting 5% GST, including condiments will be scrutinised, besides those falling under the higher slabs. Bansal added: "The govt is ready to give traders a fair hearing and help them if their cases are genuine. The law allows traders to pay tax arrears in instalments and we will provide all possible help and support to them."
Indian Express
5 days ago
- Politics
- Indian Express
Delhi HC expunges adverse remarks against judge for summoning senior police officials
The Delhi High Court last week expunged the adverse remarks it made in an order against a judicial officer for summoning senior Delhi Police officials in a Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act case. Justice Amit Bansal, on July 8, expunged parts of a judgment he had passed in December 2023 after the judicial officer informed the court that the observations made would affect his annual confidential report and cause prejudice to him. Justice Bansal also took into account that the Supreme Court had earlier observed that courts should show restraint in making adverse comments on the conduct and calibre of judicial officers in a judgment, as such comments prejudice their careers. On December 22, 2023, Justice Bansal had set aside an order of a special NDPS judge who had issued a warrant against a deputy commissioner of police and sought his presence 'for not making sincere efforts' in expeditiously receiving a Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) report in a case. The NDPS judge had also ordered the presence of the investigating officer, the station house officer (SHO), the assistant commissioner of police (ACP), and the DCP. While quashing the NDPS judge's order, Justice Bansal had observed, 'It is unfathomable that despite a detailed judgment having been passed, similar orders are continued to being passed by the same judge. In my considered view, this appears to be a complete breach of judicial discipline that a sessions judge continues to pass orders in the teeth of a detailed judgment passed by this court, expunging/deleting adverse remarks made by him against senior police officials.' This observation now stands expunged from the order. Justice Bansal had also observed, 'As noted above, the same judge has been repeatedly passing orders that are in teeth of a detailed judgment by a Coordinate Bench. Hence, it is deemed appropriate that a copy of this judgment be sent to the Inspection Committee of this Court in respect of the said Judge .' This too stands expunged.
