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India.com
9 hours ago
- Science
- India.com
Thiruvananthapuram At Night Is What Dreams Are Made Of—Here's Why
The capital city of Kerala which is named Thiruvananthapuram stands out beyond its renowned natural beauty and social history. A growing number of stargazers together with astronomy fans choose this location as their optimal destination. This energetic city gains distinctive advantages from its location between the Western Ghats and Arabian Sea that create perfect conditions for celestial observation. Thiruvananthapuram proves itself as an exceptional destination for people interested in star gazing through seven distinct characteristics. 1. Minimal Light Pollution The main struggle of urban astronomy enthusiasts involves light pollution because it hinders their ability to see celestial objects and stars. The lighting infrastructure in Thiruvananthapuram maintains lower numbers compared to the larger metropolitan cities of India. Natural landscapes of forests and hills surrounding the area minimize the amount of external light that disrupts visibility. Multiple stargazers from both amateur and professional backgrounds experience simplicity in observing faint celestial bodies and deep-space objects because of this location. 2. Proximity to the Equator The close positioning of Thiruvananthapuram around the equator makes it an ideal spot for stargazing. The equatorial location permits viewers to watch both northern and southern celestial regions every month because of its geographic position. This region offers inhabitants a wide collection of starry sights because it presents observers with access to Orion alongside Scorpius and the Southern Cross. Having its location close to the equator enables scientists to monitor satellites effectively while studying how Earth rotates. 3. Ideal Weather Conditions The climate conditions in Thiruvananthapuram act as fundamental factors which make the area favorable for star gazer activities. Thiruvananthapuram experiences its heaviest rainfall during the monsoon months but after October until February the post-monsoon season delivers skies that remain mostly clear and need minimal cloud coverage. Observations benefit from these situations of night temperatures that stay dry with no disruptions. The atmosphere stays clear because moderate humidity persists during these seasons thus producing better astronomical observations. 4. Presence of Observatories and Astronomy Clubs The City of Thiruvananthapuram operates many institutions that support the fields of astronomy and space science. The Science and Technology Museum Complex operates a planetarium that displays the cosmos using interactive demonstrations and shows for visitors. The Kerala Astronomers' Club together with other astronomy clubs in the area keeps organizing star parties and public lectures and hands-on workshops for their members. The initiatives create a growing astronomy enthusiast community and supply learning materials for beginners as well as advanced enthusiasts. 5. Dark Sky Sites Nearby The urbanized part of Thiruvananthapuram exists alongside several accessible dark sky observing areas near the city. Locations like Ponmudi Hills, Agasthyarkoodam, and Varkala Cliff offer breathtaking views of the night sky due to their elevation and distance from urban centers. Night observers visit these locations for unspoiled regions where they either establish their telescopic setups or relax under the celestial glow of the Milky Way across the starry night. 6. Rich Cultural Connection to Celestial Phenomena The region of Kerala maintains an established history of understanding cosmic events and connecting them to social traditions and cultural customs. Various cultural and scientific practices throughout ancient times employed star and planet observations for their operations. The capital Thiruvananthapuram celebrates both Onam and Vishu festivals which integrate astronomical solar movement into their festivities. The cultural appreciation of the cosmos creates an extra dimension of significance when people observe the stars in this region so stargazers can unite their appreciation of space science with traditional heritage knowledge. 7. Educational Opportunities and Research Initiatives The city of Thiruvananthapuram maintains prestigious educational establishments and research facilities that perform key work in astronomy-based research. The Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) based in the city continues its research about astrophysics and satellite technology through their advanced scientific work. The research facilities at this location provide students and scientists with cutting-edge resources while enabling them to work alongside managers of international scientific groups. The educational atmosphere promotes a motivating environment for astronomy enthusiasts and fuels students to pick space science as their future profession. Wrapping Up The perfect environment for stargazing emerges in Thiruvananthapuram because of its ideal topographic situation along with low light pollution levels and beneficial framework components and strong ties to traditional heritage. People who study astronomy at all levels along with casual space enthusiasts can find unlimited ways to observe celestial phenomena throughout this city. Thiruvananthapuram enables all citizens to observe and appreciate infinite heavenly wonders through both astronomy club events and night sky excursions to its dark sky locations. A growing number of people becoming interested in astronomy strengthens the position of this city as one of India's leading places for space exploration.
India.com
5 days ago
- Science
- India.com
Celestial Skies Over Kochi With Hidden Haven For Night Owls And Star Chasers
Indian city Kochi wins fame through its splendid mix of cultural patterns with peaceful waterways and web of shipping activities situated on Kerala's western coastline. Beyond its famous landscapes and historic sites Kochi creates something unique that attracts star gazing enthusiasts to its territory. Its prime astronomical position along with perfect climate patterns and emerging astronomy acceptance makes Kochi City an excellent base for astronomical observation. This paper investigates seven fundamental aspects that make Kochi an exceptional location for stargazers. 1. Proximity to the Equator Staring into space becomes easier for Kochi because the city resides near the equator. Rookies located near the equator gain access to complete observations of both northern and southern celestial regions. On account of its equatorial position Kochi provides its stargazers with access to more extensive celestial observation possibilities than areas located farther north or south of the equator. Stargazers have unparalleled access to observe Polaris and Southern Cross from one place because Kochi provides an advantageous location for astronomical study. 2. Minimal Light Pollution in Surrounding Areas Kochi functions as a busy metropolitan center with light pollutants but its surrounding regions outside the city borders provide conditions suitable for observing the night sky. The areas of Fort Kochi and Cherai Beach as well as Vypeen Island maintain minimal man-made nighttime illumination that enables viewers to see through the heavens more clearly. Both Munnar and Wagamon along with their rural areas grant visitors immaculate dark night skies that draw amateur and professional astronomers seeking observational experiences. 3. Favorable Weather Conditions Tropical Kochi has two seasons which alternate between dry and wet conditions alongside pleasant summer conditions. Thousands of clear days between December and April produce dry conditions that create perfect conditions for people who wish to view stars. The reduced levels of humidity allow celestial bodies to appear sharper because atmospheric distortion becomes minimal in these specific months. A short break in monsoon rains between June and September creates instances to watch meteor showers before they fade away. 4. Growing Astronomy Community The local astronomy clubs along with other organizations have triggered an increasing level of scientific interest in stargazing throughout Kochi over the last few years. The Kerala Science and Technology Museum's astronomy wing together with multiple amateur astronomy clubs holds star parties and public observation events as well as workshops. These initiatives fulfill two functions by creating stargazer community bonds and by giving novices telescope access through expert guidance to develop their knowledge of space. 5. Access to Modern Equipment and Facilities The city of Kochi features multiple establishments and research facilities which provide contemporary tools useful for astronomers and scientific researchers alike. The city of Kochi can easily access the educational offerings at Priyadarshini Planetarium in Thiruvananthapuram which features interactive exhibits alongside sky shows. From local universities to research centers Kochi has proven itself a strong partner with national space agencies by providing modern facilities and research skills. The resources available in Kochi create a beneficial atmosphere which enables novice astronomers to develop their skills. Wrapping Up Kochi functions as a pristine astronomical location because natural elements intersect perfectly with community facilities and cultural traditions. Kochi presents its residents with numerous ways to study astronomical phenomena due to its favorable meteorological setting and southeast Asian position and active astronomy groups and historical importance. People of all experience levels with astronomy can find the perfect environment for star-gazing opportunities throughout Kochi. Look at the stars through your telescope at scenic locations in the city because Kochi offers breathtaking views of the night sky in its beautiful atmosphere.
RNZ News
15-07-2025
- Health
- RNZ News
Health insurance crunch prompts calls for fringe benefit tax break
Most countries in the OECD offer incentives to encourage people to take out insurance, Financial Services Council chief executive Kirk Hope says. Photo: Pixabay Health insurance is becoming too expensive for some New Zealanders and it's prompted a call from the industry for tax breaks to help. Research from the Financial Services Council, which represents life and health insurers, shows that a third of people with health insurance have downgraded or reduced their cover in the past year. A third of New Zealanders have health insurance and another 27 percent said they previously had it but no longer do. Southern Cross - the country's biggest health insurer - has an online tool which shows that a 40-year-old female non-smoker with a 45-year-old male non-smoker partner and a 10-year-old child would pay $120 a fortnight for the KiwiCare plan, which splits the cost of treatment between the patient and Southern Cross. Wellbeing One, which offers standard surgical and healthcare cover, is $136. For older people, it becomes much more expensive. A couple who are aged 60 and 65 could pay $324 a fortnight for Wellbeing One if they were non-smokers. At 70 and 75, that could increase to $518 a fortnight. This does not account for pre-existing conditions. Health insurance premiums can increase annually in line with insurers' claims expenses, inflation and the cost of doing business. But they also rise as someone gets older. Southern Cross chief sales and marketing officer Regan Savage told Checkpoint last week that some of its customers had cancelled their cover. He said all insurers were increasing their premiums. "Up to March this year our premium increase was around 16.5 percent, that changes to about 20 percent when you include ageing. One of the things about health insurance is your risk increases with every year you age," he said. Southern Cross said in its most recent full-year results announcement, the cost of claims was rising faster than premiums. It is a friendly society, which means it is not set up to make a profit. Financial Services Council chief executive Kirk Hope. Photo: Financial Services Council chief executive Kirk Hope said health insurance would provide faster access to care, lower out-of-pocket costs and should support overall wellbeing. He said the majority of people with insurance felt they received value from it. "It certainly plays out when you have something happen to you which is not covered… people go 'yeah I wish I had done that at the time'." But he said cost was a key barrier. He said older people often chose to increase the excess on their insurance, which could lower their premiums, or target cover to the areas they were most concerned about. But he said the country needed to do more to help. He said most countries in the OECD offered incentives to encourage people to take out insurance. "In Australia, if you don't take out health insurance by a certain age, you're charged more tax." Hope said it would make sense to expand cover through workplace schemes. At the moment, 56 percent of people with health insurance pay for it themselves and 78 percent of those with life insurance. But he said employer contributions to life and health insurance should be exempt from fringe benefit tax (FBT). FBT is paid on benefits given to staff and Hope said this could act as a disincentive. "FBT on employer provided group insurance schemes discourages businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, from including insurance as an employee benefit," he said. "There are important policy implications here. "Improving access to life and health insurance can enhance workforce resilience, reduce pressure on the public health system, and provide critical financial buffers for families and individuals in times of crisis. This tax effectively penalises employers for supporting the wellbeing of their staff." He said many other countries allowed premiums paid to be deducted from a person's taxable income, which would help people who were retiring or coming out of the workforce and no longer in group schemes. "New Zealand is an outlier in the OECD because we literally provide no deductibility for insurance with the exception of income protection. That's an area where there should be a degree of focus." Founder of Enrich Retirement Liz Koh. Photo: Supplied Founder of Enrich Retirement Liz Koh said whether health insurance made sense would depend on someone's personal circumstances. They might think about the likelihood of suffering a health problem in the future, the financial consequences if that happened and their ability to pay for care. "How much of that risk am I willing to take on myself and how much risk do I wish to pass on to someone else by paying an insurance premium? "Some people choose to self insure as they have significant financial assets. Others simply can't afford the premiums. In that case they need to reduce risk by living a healthy life - eating the right foods, exercising... "The risk for young people is that they think they are bulletproof when they are not. Health issues can come out of the blue. It pays to have at least some cover before you develop health issues, because once you have pre-existing conditions this may affect your premium and/or your ability to get insurance cover." She said some people expected to rely on the public health system. "The thing is that once you get into the public health system it's fantastic. The problem is in getting into it. Long waiting lists, staff shortages..." Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero , a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
India.com
13-07-2025
- Science
- India.com
Stargazing In Chennai? Locals Swear These Spots Feel Like Another Galaxy
Chennai emerges as Tamil Nadu's capital city in southern India because it maintains its fame through its deep cultural diversity along with its artistic dynamism and its tasty culinary arts. The astronomical community and amateur stargazers both find deep attachment toward Chennai for its special appeal beyond its city lifestyle. The city of Chennai provides outstanding conditions for astronomy enthusiasts through its strategic position and its luminous skies alongside its strong astronomical support network. The following seven factors make Chennai an ideal place for people who enjoy stargazing. 1. Proximity to the Equator The equatorial position of Chennai makes it rank among the most suitable Earth regions for observing stars in the night sky. The position near the equator gives observers an expanded view of celestial objects that people would see less prominently at locations located north or south. Chennai residents throughout the year can view all constellations situated in both the northern and the southern celestial hemisphere. Different periods throughout the year bring out Orion along with Scorpius and the Southern Cross as well as other iconic constellations for viewers in Chennai. 2. Relatively Clear Skies The city of Chennai shows favorable astronomical viewing conditions during select times because it avoids severe urban light pollution problems throughout its sky. Thirteen months create dry conditions followed by wet conditions because of the tropical climate system in the city. The skies remain crystal clear throughout the dry months between December and March thereby enabling excellent opportunities to see planets alongside stars together with deep-sky objects such as galaxies and nebulae. Special astrophysicists make trips beyond urban areas to areas with reduced light pollution in order to enhance their cosmic viewing experience. 3. Thriving Astronomical Community Chennai has developed into a place which supports both professional astronomical institutions and enthusiastic amateur astronomers who work together to promote astronomy interests. Public lectures as well as workshops and star-gazing activities happen frequently through the combined efforts of Tamil Nadu Science Forum (TNSF) and Madras Astronomical Society (MAS). These educational projects help people learn about astronomy as they build an environment where new stargazers can receive support. Schools and colleges in Chennai regularly provide students the opportunity to view through telescopes which encourages young people to study astronomy either professionally or as a hobby. 4. Access to World-Class Observatories The city of Chennai serves as a passage to multiple prestigious Indian astronomical facilities even though it lacks major observatories within its urban district. The Vainu Bappu Observatory at Kavalur represents an excellent example since it exists approximately 200 kilometers outside of Chennai. The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) operates this tank which provides research-based functions through powerful telescope systems. The sites attract numerous astronomy enthusiasts in Chennai who want practical experience with sophisticated instruments and want to learn about active scientific research. 5. Cultural Fascination with Astronomy India maintains a centuries-long tradition of studying astronomy which began with astronomical content found in ancient documents such as Vedas and Siddhantas. Modern Chennai residents honor its astronomical history through regular festive celebrations. A significant number of people gather to observe eclipses as well as meteor showers and planetary alignments because these cosmic occurrences are remarkable to experience with their own eyes. Local news channels as well as educational organizations work together to inform residents about upcoming celestial displays by promoting awareness. 6. Affordable Equipment Availability The essential needs of beginning astronomers include obtaining reasonably priced astronomical instruments like telescopes and binoculars. The marketplaces of Chennai along with its online sites serve as venues where people can obtain entry-level through mid-range astronomical equipment. Retail businesses devoted to hobbyists provide inexpensive equipment accessible to beginners who need suitable tools. People encountering difficulties when starting with space exploration can borrow telescopes from local astronomy clubs because membership provides exposure to the night sky free of charge. 7. Educational Opportunities and Research Initiatives Numerous distinguished education institutions and research centers at Chennai deliver astrophysics and space sciences courses through their programs and study options. Anna University along with Loyola College present astronomy courses which combine theoretical learning with practical astrophysics instruction to their students. Academic bodies working alongside organizations such as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) enable researchers to take part in transformative projects. These programs encourage students to follow space science and astronomy fields which helps solidify Chennai's position as India's scientific research center. Wrapping Up Chennai establishes its status as a planet-watching destination because it unites ideal geographical traits with strong participation from local communities together with training possibilities. The urgent difficulties of urbanization do not halt the continued growth of Chennai's astronomy enthusiast field. The city of Chennai extends varied ways for people from astronomy experts to cosmic novices to experience celestial beauty. Through its commitment to developing curiosity and facility access the city preserves the night sky wonders available to all who wish to explore them.
India.com
08-07-2025
- Business
- India.com
India, Brazil Seal $20B Trade Plan As Modi Gains Support On Terror, UPI, Global South – Ties Cemented With Brasilia's Top Honour
Brasilia (Brazil): The Brazilian sun had barely risen when Prime Minister Narendra Modi stood beside President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at Alvorada Palace, hand-in-hand, sharing a moment that symbolised more than diplomatic optics. Brazil rolled out red carpet and wrapped PM Modi in the colours of the Southern Cross. On July 9, during a joint appearance, PM Modi was conferred with Brazil's highest civilian honour – the Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross. The moment was about what the two countries are choosing to build together. 'We have set a goal to raise bilateral trade to 20 billion dollars over the next five years,' PM Modi declared, linking Brazil's passion for football with India's love for cricket. 'Whether it is sending the ball past the boundary or into the goal, when both are on the same team, a $20 billion partnership is not difficult to achieve,' he said. Behind these poetic words sat a policy. The visit apparently has opened a new chapter in India's diplomatic and economic outreach to Latin America. The centrepiece of the visit was the comprehensive bilateral dialogue held at the Presidential Palace in Brasilia. The two leaders discussed a broad spectrum of issues from defence to digital public infrastructure, agriculture to artificial intelligence and climate change to traditional medicine. Modi emphasised the growing India-Brazil defence bond, highlighting mutual trust and a shared interest in linking defence industries. Collaboration in artificial intelligence, supercomputers and critical minerals also formed key pillars of discussion. A $20 Billion Vision Energy transition and sustainability emerged as top priorities. Both countries pledged to align their clean energy goals, with Brazil's rich reserves of lithium and rare earths offering opportunities for India's green ambitions. The two countries have agreed to elevate trade discussions to a ministerial level, keeping close watch over commerce, investment and market access. PM Modi requested Lula's support in expanding the India-MERCOSUR Preferential Trade Agreement. The Brazilian president agreed to the request. Brazil currently chairs the trade bloc. Kumaran, the Secretary (East) at India's External Affairs Ministry, called it a significant commitment. 'The leaders noted ample opportunities lie ahead for diversifying and expanding bilateral trade,' he said. Digital Push, UPI Footprint and Health Synergy India's digital success story has caught Latin America's eye. PM Modi announced both countries are collaborating to bring India's UPI system to Brazil. Three major MoUs were signed on July 9 – cooperation in counter-terrorism and organised crime, sharing of digital public infrastructure tools and a pact on renewable energy. More were set to follow, including on agriculture research, mutual protection of classified information and intellectual property. Health was another pillar. India requested Brazil to fast-track approval for medicines already cleared by the US FDA or Europe's EDQM. The move could help slash healthcare costs for Brazilians. Defence, Climate and Critical Minerals Modi emphasised the growing India-Brazil defence bond, calling it a reflection of 'deep mutual trust'. There is also a clean energy ambition shaping this relationship. With Brazil's vast reserves of critical minerals like lithium and rare earth elements and India's appetite for secure supply chains for its green push, the two sides found common ground. PM Modi assured President Lula of India's full backing for the COP30, which Brazil will host. Artificial intelligence, space and supercomputing also featured in talks – no longer emerging themes but priorities. Terrorism and the Global South One message from PM Modi rang out loud: 'We share a common approach in the fight against terrorism – zero tolerance and zero double standards.' President Lula's support in condemning the Pahalgam terror attack in April, where 26 Indian citizens died, did not go unnoticed. In a subtle swipe at global power imbalances, both leaders spoke about the Global South. 'It is our moral obligation to raise the concerns and priorities of the Global South at global forums,' said PM Modi. Ayurveda, Samba and Visa-Free Dreams There was warmth too. Brazil's love for football and India's cricket fever, their carnival colours and shared love for dance, cuisine and spirituality – all found space in the leaders' words. Ayurveda and traditional medicine will now be introduced more deeply in Brazil. Modi spoke of 'contact without long lines at visa counters', promising smoother travel for students, tourists and businesspeople. Regional and Multilateral Vision The two countries are not only talking trade, they are aligning multilateral strategies. At the lunch hosted by President Lula, both leaders discussed regional issues and cooperation in groups like BRICS, G20, IPSA and the United Nations. This visit marks Modi's fourth to Brazil in 10 years but only the second standalone bilateral one in nearly six decades. From Rio to Brasilia and from strategic agreements to shared dances of diplomacy, India and Brazil are scripting something more than a deal. They are composing a new rhythm for the Global South. And as Modi heads next to Namibia, carrying echoes of Samba and a pocketful of signed MoUs, the India-Brazil story feels more like a future unfolding than a ceremony concluded. (With ANI inputs)
