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US trade deal won’t affect India’s defence ties with Russia, says Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh

 India’s defence engagement with Russia will continue unaffected by the US trade deal, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh said, underlining that New Delhi will maintain a diversified procurement strategy while accelerating indigenisation.

“The US trade deal doesn’t impede our defence engagement with Russia,” Singh said at News18 Rising Bharat 2026

He added that India will continue sourcing military equipment based on operational requirements. “We continue to procure from Russians and will continue to do so from the French, Americans — what is required,” he said.

Singh’s remarks signal continuity in India’s multi-aligned defence procurement approach, even as strategic and trade ties with Washington deepen.

At the same time, he stressed that boosting domestic manufacturing remains a priority

We would want to double down on indigenisation,” Singh said, reiterating the government’s focus on strengthening local defence production capacity.

India has in recent years sought to reduce import dependence through domestic manufacturing initiatives, while maintaining defence partnerships with a range of countries, including Russia, France and the United States.

Music, Memories and Meaningful Conversations: Padma Shri Aruna Sairam Interacts with Admirers at the Inaugural ‘Super Chennai Arattai’

Felicitated as the ‘Icon of the Month’

Chennai, Feb 28: The inaugural edition of Super Chennai’s Arattai featured legendary Carnatic vocalist Padma Shri Aruna Sairam, one of India’s most revered classical musicians and a global ambassador of Chennai’s rich musical heritage. In a heart-warming and candid session, she shared anecdotes from her musical journey, reflections on Chennai’s cultural evolution, and personal insights into the discipline and devotion that define classical music.

Music, Memories and Meaningful Conversations: Padma Shri Aruna Sairam Interacts with Admirers at the Inaugural ‘Super Chennai Arattai’

 

Building on its vision of celebrating the spirit, stories and changemakers of the city, Super Chennai has introduced ‘Super Chennai Arattai’. Designed as an engaging, up-close interaction platform, Super Chennai Arattai will feature iconic personalities from diverse fields – arts, sports, business, cinema, literature and public life – offering audiences an opportunity to listen, interact and connect in an informal yet inspiring setting. Fans can register online to receive exclusive invites to attend the sessions, making the experience personal and community-driven.

During the event, Padma Shri Aruna Sairam was also honoured with the title ‘Icon of the Month’, recognising her extraordinary contribution to music and her enduring impact on Chennai’s cultural identity. The felicitation was presented by Mr. C. K. Kumaravel- Co- Founder & CMD, Naturals Salon & Spa, who lauded her role in taking Chennai’s musical legacy to the global stage.

Music, Memories and Meaningful Conversations: Padma Shri Aruna Sairam Interacts with Admirers at the Inaugural ‘Super Chennai Arattai’

 

Responding to the honour, Padma Shri Aruna Sairam said: “There is a real thirst in this city for something beyond the mundane – for music, for culture, for meaningful artistic experiences. That is what makes Chennai so extraordinary. I have had people stop me in traffic and tell me, ‘Please don’t leave the city,’ and that kind of love is something you can never take for granted. Chennai is my home – there is simply no comparison to Chennai. Its warmth, its passion for the arts, and its deep cultural roots are what truly make it ‘Super Chennai.”

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Ranjeeth Rathod, Managing Director, Super Chennai, said: “Super Chennai was envisioned as a citizen-led movement to spotlight the positive narratives of our city. With ‘Super Chennai Arattai’, we are creating a meaningful platform where icons of Chennai can connect directly with the people who celebrate and support them. Padma Shri Aruna Sairam is not just a musical legend but a cultural force who represents the soul of this city. It is an honour to have her as the inaugural guest at Super Chennai Arattai and recognise her as our ‘Icon of the Month’.”

Presenting the award, Mr. C. K. Kumaravel- Co- Founder & CMD, Naturals Salon & Spa added: “Some cities create professionals; Chennai creates culture. Padma Shri Aruna Sairam embodies that culture in human form. When art, culture and entrepreneurship come together, we don’t just build institutions – we build a more beautiful world.” 

‘Super Chennai Arattai’ will be hosted periodically, each edition spotlighting a distinguished personality whose work has shaped the city’s cultural and social fabric. With limited seats and curated interactions, the series aims to foster deeper conversations and meaningful community engagement.

Registrations for upcoming editions will be announced on Super Chennai’s official platforms. 

Housing Hope: HRDS INDIA Completes 100 Homes for Tribal Families

Odisha | Feb 27:

HRDS INDIA handed over keys to 100 eco-friendly, climate-resilient homes to tribal families in Analabereni village, Dhenkanal district, under its Sadhgraha Project. The initiative aims to provide permanent housing to land-owning tribal families who lack secure shelter.

The ceremony was led by HRDS INDIA President Guru Atma Nambi and attended by district officials, organizational leaders, and beneficiary families. The homes mark a transition from temporary structures to safe, dignified residences.

HRDS INDIA Sadhgraha Project: 100 Tribal Families Get Permanent Homes in Dhenkanal

 

Each 370 sq. ft. unit is fully furnished and built using pre-fabricated, climate-resilient, and eco-friendly materials suited to tribal regions. Designed with cultural sensitivity and rapid deployment capability, the homes address critical housing gaps in underserved communities, including Juang and Munda populations in Dhenkanal.

“Sadhgraha is not merely about constructing houses; it is about restoring dignity and creating a secure foundation for tribal families,” said Guru Atma Nambi. “Every permanent home becomes a starting point for better health, uninterrupted education for children, and economic stability. When a family has a safe roof over their head, they gain confidence to build their future.”

Founder & Secretary Aji Krishnan emphasized the importance of collective participation. “We are bridging urban resources with rural realities. Tribal housing must be seen as a long-term nation-building investment. Through strong CSR and ESG-driven partnerships, we can scale impact responsibly and ensure that development reaches the last mile,” he said.

With thousands of homes already delivered across India’s tribal belts, HRDS INDIA aims to expand delivery to over 10,000 units annually through collaborations with PSUs, corporate CSR programs, and state governments.

HRDS INDIA – Building Homes, Building India

The Body Shop Brings Back Cult Classic ‘Dewberry’

India, Feb 27: The Body Shop, a British-born international ethical beauty brand, has announced the return of its globally loved Dewberry collection. First launched in the 90s, it became known as the scent that defined a decade. Now, Dewberry returns with all the nostalgic boldness and charm you remember, reimagined for a new generation. 

The Body Shop Brings Back Cult Classic ‘Dewberry’

Sparked by overwhelming demand from fans across the world, Dewberry is back with a fresh perspective. The new and exciting collection, with its unmistakable juicy notes, has been thoughtfully curated with modern textures and updated formulas. The perfect way to reawaken cherished memories of a thrilling era, while creating bold new ones today.  Infused with sustainably sourced Community Fair Trade ingredients such as Shea Butter and Sesame Seed Oil, the collection brings together The Body Shop’s legacy of ethical beauty with a vibrant, modern sensorial experience. 

DEWBERRY: A SCENTED JOURNEY

The fragrance is vibrant, uplifting, playful yet sophisticated, and ever so nostalgic. Top Notes: The journey begins with an instant burst of juicy dewberry, delicately intertwined with crisp green leaves and a cool touch of eucalyptus, evoking a sense of carefree energy. Heart Notes: A timeless floral symphony of jasmine, freesia, and white lily unfolds, adding a layer of soft, fresh sophistication that bridges the past and present. Base Notes: The scent settles into a comforting, grounding base of warm cedarwood and soft musk, leaving a feeling of quiet confidence; a gentle reminder that some scents stay with us, not just for their beauty but for the memories they carry.

Rahul Shanker, Group CEO, Quest Retail and House of Beauty said,

“The relaunch of the Dewberry collection through a modern lens celebrates joy, self-expression, and a love for nostalgic classics. The range invites our beloved customers to rediscover a familiar favourite that feels vintage, nostalgic, and fresh, all at the same time, and is a true embodiment of our heritage reimagined.”

The Dewberry range is available across The Body Shop stores and online

Khao Galli A Curated Street Food Experience at Taj MG Road

Khao Galli brings the vibrant spirit of Indian street food to an elegant dining setting at Taj MG Road, Bengaluru. The experience begins with refreshing welcome beverages and a selection of salads including Indian-spiced charred sweet corn salad and Murgh Chatpata. Comforting soups such as Chukandar aur Gosht ka Pudina Shorba and Gajar aur Adrak ka Soup set the tone, followed by interactive live stations serving Meen Varuval, Pudina aur Hari Mirch ka Murgh, momos, Kati rolls, and assorted pakoras.

Khao Galli A Curated Street Food Experience at Taj MG Road

 The main course features favourites like Awadhi Gosht Biryani, Malabar Fish Curry, and Kundapur Ghee Roast, complemented by vegetarian classics such as Methi Malai Paneer and Lahsuni Bhindi, along with select European offerings including oven-roasted potatoes with caramelised asparagus. A lively yet comforting spread that captures the flavours and energy of India’s streets.

Venue: The Trinity Square, Taj MG Road, Bengaluru

When: Every Wednesday

Timings: Lunch: 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm | Dinner: 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm

“Golf for All” Returns with Inclusive Skill Training Camp at Delhi Golf Club — A Human-Centric Sports Movement in the Age of AI

New Delhi, Feb 27: At a time when conversations in Delhi and across the country are dominated by Artificial Intelligence, digital transformation, and automation, the “Golf for All” Inclusive Skill Training Camp is making a powerful statement — that human connection, empathy, and people-to-people engagement remain irreplaceable.

“Golf for All” Returns with Inclusive Skill Training Camp at Delhi Golf Club — A Human-Centric Sports Movement in the Age of AI

Scheduled from 28 February to 2 March 2026 (3:00 PM to 5:00 PM) at the prestigious Delhi Golf Club, this three-day camp brings together persons with disabilities and able-bodied participants through sport, mentorship, and partnership.

The initiative is being led by Dr. Archana Singh, PhD in Disability Studies, and is supported by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, through the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD). ALIMCO is the CSR partner and Physical Education Federation of India (PEFI) is the implementing partner.

The programme is jointly organised by Delhi Golf Club and the Golf for All Foundation, with designer duo Nikhil and Shantanu creating inclusive sportswear that reflects dignity, confidence, and identity for all participants.

This edition marks the revival of a highly successful inclusive golf programme first conducted at Delhi Golf Club in 2012 under the Ministry’s leadership. The current camp is being positioned as “Golf for All 2.0”, building on that legacy and guided by Ms. Manmeet Kaur Nanda, IAS, Additional Secretary, DEPwD, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

Participants will be coached by Jasjit Singh, Former National Coach of India (Golf), who will lead sessions on putting, chipping, and core techniques in a learner-friendly, inclusive format. “A defining feature of the programme is its Buddy Format, where each participant with a disability is paired with a partner buddy. This model promotes shared learning, mutual respect, confidence-building, and social inclusion — reinforcing sport as a tool for empowerment”, says Jasjit.

While technology continues to reshape society, the “Golf for All” camp places people at the centre. It celebrates physical presence, mentorship, shared effort, and emotional connection — values that cannot be automated. Speaking on the initiative, Dr. Archana Singh said,

“This camp is about more than learning golf. It is about restoring the power of human connection, dignity, and belonging. In a world moving rapidly towards automation, this initiative reminds us that inclusion begins with empathy.”

The Chief Guest for the camp will be Jayant Chaudhary, Hon’ble Union Minister, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports. His presence underscores the powerful role of sports in enhancing employability, strengthening technical and life skills, and fostering discipline, confidence, and social inclusion. At scale, sports serve as a catalyst for nation-building by equipping individuals — including persons with disabilities — with resilience, teamwork, and leadership capabilities essential for meaningful participation in society and the workforce.

The Park Navi Mumbai Unveils Dual Holi Celebrations with Colour Festival & Exclusive Pool Bash

Mumbai, Feb 27 : This Holi, The Park Navi Mumbai is turning up the celebration quotient by hosting two distinct and high-energy experiences simultaneously on 3 March from 10 AM onwards, offering the city a choice between a large-scale colour festival and an exclusive poolside bash.

The highlight of the day is the much-anticipated Boom Colour Festival – Holi Party, celebrating seven successful years of vibrant festivities. Conceptualised in association with Boom Entertainment, the event has evolved into one of the city’s most premium Holi gatherings. Designed for those who want to celebrate in grand festival style, the experience promises top DJs, immersive colour play, large-format production, and curated food and beverage offerings all set against the backdrop of luxury hospitality.

Running alongside is the Aqua Holi Bash – Balam Pichkari Edition, an exclusive couples-only celebration crafted for guests seeking a more intimate yet equally dynamic setting. Hosted by the poolside, this edition blends vibrant music, premium ambience, and curated hospitality to create a stylish and sophisticated Holi experience. With controlled entry and a refined guest profile, the bash caters to those who prefer exclusivity while still embracing the festive spirit.

By offering two distinct formats under one roof, The Park Navi Mumbai continues to position itself as a trendsetter in experiential hospitality maintaining it’s brand ethos of Anything but Ordinary. Whether guests choose the high-energy festival atmosphere or the upscale poolside celebration, 3 March promises to be one of Navi Mumbai’s most anticipated Holi events.

Crypto Assets and the Next Phase of Global Tax Transparency

Delhi, Feb 26:

India recently hosted the OECD’s 18th Global Forum Plenary in New Delhi, a gathering that marked a significant moment in global tax governance, particularly for crypto-assets. With 2027 just a year away, many jurisdictions are moving from political commitment to operational readiness, preparing to share tax-related information on crypto-transactions under the Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF). A distant ambition of multilateral cooperation is now set to become a compliance reality.

As is well known, the rapid and widespread adoption of crypto-assets was accompanied by a rise in challenges for governments, particularly related to tax evasion. Governments struggled to preserve tax transparency in a system designed to operate beyond traditional financial intermediaries and borders. Consequently, they recognised that crypto-assets cannot remain outside the global tax transparency architecture. They responded by introducing and adopting CARF to ensure tax information related to crypto transactions is exchanged like information about traditional financial products.

Under CARF, crypto-asset service providers such as exchanges, brokers, platforms, and operators that facilitate crypto transactions at scale are identified as reporting entities. They are required to identify users, determine tax residence, and report a defined set of transactions to tax authorities, who then share this information with counterparts in other signatory countries. The framework ensures broad asset coverage, adopts an expansive definition of intermediaries, and introduces clear nexus rules to prevent firms from escaping reporting by relocating to non-signatory jurisdictions.

More than 70 jurisdictions have committed to implementing the framework, including major financial jurisdictions such as the US and EU. Such widespread coordination was unthinkable a few years ago when crypto regulations were fragmented and tentative.

However, the reality hidden under the broad global convergence is much more complex. Implementation is not uniform. It is strongly dependent on domestic political priorities, institutional capacity, and broader views on crypto-assets. While some jurisdictions have directly transposed CARF rules into domestic laws, many have opted to update existing laws.

The United Kingdom has embedded CARF into its tax framework through detailed regulations, backed by clear timelines and revenue projections. Germany and other EU member countries have implemented CARF via DAC8, the EU’s binding directive, which goes beyond CARF by imposing stricter penalties for non-compliance and tighter enforcement obligations. In these advanced economies, CARF is seen as an extension to an already mature compliance ecosystem.

In other jurisdictions such as Brazil and South Africa, CARF has provided a floor rather than a ceiling. Domestic rules in these countries expand reporting to a wider range of crypto transactions, mandate more granular disclosures, and impose stricter operational requirements. In emerging economies where dollarisation, cross-border capital flows, and high inflation pose macroeconomic and fiscal risks, stricter and wider reporting becomes key for effective domestic financial governance as much as global tax compliance.

Contrastingly, jurisdictions such as India and Nigeria highlight a different tension. Both countries initially banned crypto-assets completely but have since moved away from outright hostility. They are now focused on ensuring strict oversight while remaining cautious about formal recognition of the sector. India oversees the crypto sector through stringent taxation policy, including a 1% withholding tax and a flat 30% capital gains tax. In the Union Budget 2026, the Indian government introduced a crypto-asset reporting regime under Section 509 of the Income Tax Act, 2025 (corresponding to Section 285BAA of the Income-tax Act, 1961), which imposes reporting obligations on service providers. Nigeria has moved from bans to licensing to taxation, signalling similar pragmatism. For these countries, CARF can be viewed as a compliance necessity rather than a policy endorsement.

The United States approach stands apart. It has not formally transposed CARF but has pursued parallel domestic reporting through its broker regime. These rules are aligned conceptually with CARF but underscore the US approach of being broadly aligned with international standards filtered through domestic regulatory realities.

Overall, it is clear that CARF is not about regulating crypto-assets in the traditional sense. Instead, it is focused on a narrower but more fundamental objective: restoring visibility for tax authorities. The ability to track crypto holdings and exchanges is essential in a world of digital finance. This is not to say that CARF spells the end of crypto innovation, but it marks the end of crypto exceptionalism. Crypto-assets would be folded, decisively, into a rule-based international order. Policymakers will have to work effectively on executing such global standards. They will ensure data quality, safeguard confidentiality, and coordinate across borders to ensure the spirit of CARF is realised. For industry players, it is clear that participation in markets would be subject to obligations—not just to innovate, but also to account.

Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar Highlights How Precise Bhramari Pranayama Transforms Brain and Nervous System

Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, Author, Columnist, Founder: Akshar Yoga Kendraa, Work: Yoga and spiritual leader

Why Correct Application of Bhramari Pranayama Changes Its Impact on the Brain

Bhramari pranayama is usually related to rest and peace of mind. While this description is accurate, it does not fully explain the profound neurological influence the practice can have when applied correctly. Calmness is not the final result but an apparent consequence of the more profound processes of control that take place in the brain and the nervous system. Its actual difference consists not in the practice, but in its application.

When Bhramari Pranayama is performed with precision–integrating posture, breath rhythm, sound vibration, and hand placement–it influences brain coherence, autonomic balance, and cognitive regulation in measurable and lasting ways. Misuse or incomplete use will reduce the practice to a temporary calming procedure unless proper use will convert it to a way of conscious control of the nervous system.

The Brain as a Rhythmic System.

The human brain works based on the rhythmical electricity. These rhythms–commonly referred to as brain waves–govern perception, emotional response, attention, and decision-making. When neural rhythms become disorganized, the individual experiences anxiety, restlessness, emotional volatility, and mental fatigue. When these rhythms are synchronized and stable, clarity, focus, and emotional steadiness naturally emerge.

The constant rhythmic input is presented by Bhramari Pranayama. The humming sound produced internally is a vibratory signal that is interacting with the existing neural vibrations. As opposed to external sound, which has to be converted, sifted, and translated, internally generated vibration bypasses numerous stages of sensory multifaceted, and has a direct effect on neural timing and coordination.

Internal Sound and Neural Interaction

Vibration of sound created during Bhramari goes through the cranial cavity, sinuses and bones of the face as well as tissues surrounding the head. These vibrations activate auditory processing, interoceptive, and emotional regulation neural pathways. Since the sound is generated inside a body, it is perceived by the brain as an internal stimulus or signal and not as an external stimulus.

This difference is essential. Internal vibration is processed differently by the nervous system. It encourages assimilation and not response. Circuitry that is used in the detection of threats or sensory alertness subside, whereas networks that are used in regulation and coherence get stronger.

The Role of Sensory Withdrawal

Proper use of Bhramari has the position of hands being applied in deliberate manner thus minimizing outside sensory stimulus. Sensory points on the face are stabilized and the ears are closed softly, which means that the brain receives fewer external signals when the ears are closed. This sensory withdrawal allows internal signals–breath rhythm, vibration, and bodily awareness–to take priority.

The neuroscience research on sensory suppression shows that the reduction of the external stimuli maximizes the activity of the brain networks related to self-regulation and introspective awareness. Meanwhile, the background neural noise which is associated with distraction and rumination reduces. This is also done naturally in Bhramari by posture and the position of the hands instead of by means of a concentrated effort.

Breath Rhythm and Autonomic Balance

The major connection between conscious action and autonomic functioning is breath. Bhramari Pranayama involves slow breathing with a long exhalation of humming, which is a decisive factor in the work of the nervous system.

Prolonged exhaled stimulates the vagus nerve which controls the parasympathetic. This transition facilitates a non-dull relaxation. The heart rate variability is enhanced which indicates that the heart and the brain communicate better. Emotional processing centers get more stable and impulsive reactions to stress are decreased.

More to the point, it is not a state of suppression. The nervous system is not being induced to calmness. Rather it is steered towards coherence by rhythmic contribution.

From Relaxation to Calm Alertness.

Calm alertness is one of the greatest results of properly administered Bhramari. This condition contrasts with sedation or mental retardation. The level of awareness is high, with low reactivity. Attention becomes sustained rather than scattered. Emotional responses become measured rather than impulsive.

Cognitive resources are saved in this state. The brain does not spend as much energy in processing inner noise or emotional changes. This allows higher-order functions such as reasoning, creativity, and decision-making to operate more efficiently.

Neural Adaptation Through Consistency.

Nervous system becomes accustomed to repetition. When there is proper and regular practice of Bhramari, the brain will begin to accept the mode of vibratory-breath as a normal existence. Over time, this leads to durable changes in stress response, attention span, and emotional regulation.

The practice adapts the neural behavior of baselines instead of relief, which is short-lived. The reaction to stress is minimized. Healing of emotional disturbance is quicker. Mental clarity becomes easier to access.

Such adaptive process requires regularity and accuracy. Improper or unbalanced practice will result in inconsistent input, which restricts neurological transformation in the long term.

Method Over Effort

Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar stresses that the transformational effects of Bhramari are a result of a method rather than a result of effort. Straining the breath, forcing the sound, or applying excessive pressure disrupts neural harmony. Precision of posture, gentle hand placement, balanced breath, and smooth vibration allow the brain to reorganize itself naturally.

The rationale behind the practice is that it honors the smartness of the nervous system. It is a structured input and the response of biological processes to it is organic.

Relevance in the Modern Cognitive Environment

Modern life is characterized by constant sensory stimulation, information overload, and chronic cognitive demand. Constant internal coherence in the brain is hardly ever experienced. Over time, this leads to fatigue, anxiety, and reduced emotional resilience.

When practiced properly, Bhramari Pranayama provides an effective and scientifically-supported approach to overcome such effects, being non-invasive. It does not involve the use of external resources, medication, or complicated intervention. It relies on breath, sound, and posture to restore neural balance from within.

Conclusion: Precision Determines Outcome

By integrating sound vibration, breath rhythm, sensory withdrawal, and intentional posture, Bhramari reorganizes neural activity toward coherence and stability. In doing so, it offers a pathway to sustained mental clarity, emotional balance, and cognitive resilience in an increasingly overstimulated world.