कंधे पर बैग टांगकर घूम रहा था युवक, तलाशी में पुलिस को मिला गांजा

Jhalawar Latest News: राजस्थान पुलिस ने एक युवक को गिरफ्तार किया है. जिसके बैग से पुलिस को 2 किलो 30 ग्राम अवैध मादक पदार्थ गांजा बरामद हुआ. तब पुलिस ने बिना देरी किए उस युवक को गिरफ्तार कर लिया. आइए जानते आखिर क्या हैं पूरा मामला.

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Opinion: Congress' Troll Politics Leads To MVA's Downfall In Maharashtra

The Maharashtra mandate is a rare phenomenon and a powerful lesson, prompting political parties, analysts, and commentators to return to the drawing board. This paradigm shift will take time to fully comprehend - and what a shift it has been!

The state delivering a decisive majority to the NDA is stunningly historic. For the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), this marks a significant milestone, achieved through years of hard work to establish itself independently, without relying on the support of regional parties. While the ultimate goal is not yet fully realised, the BJP has taken a major step forward.

Maharashtra's voters, who have experienced coalition governments for over three decades, now seem to have opted for greater stability, while technically remaining in the years of coalition era. With the BJP securing 130+ seats, the party has positioned itself as a force less vulnerable to the pulls and pressures of running a coalition.

Much can be written about the factors that contributed to the BJP's success, but the essence is straightforward: the party has been quick to learn from its mistakes and failures, understood the pulse of the people, and executed a bold, high-stakes strategy under the Modi-Shah duo. Their unique brand of social engineering has yielded instant results, garnering both Maratha and non-Maratha votes. Achieving this level of finesse in such a short time offers a masterclass in political strategy - one that calls for admiration and study at the same time.

The BJP has also secured a larger share of OBC, SC, and ST votes across most of the six political regions. Women beneficiaries of the Ladki Behna scheme played a vital role, and the RSS lent its discipline machine more generously to bolster the already formidable and finely tuned BJP election machinery. The recent Haryana assembly election victory put a spring in their steps.

Let us shift focus to the MVA's dramatic collapse. From a position of strength, it fell apart in just five months - a stunning reversal after its strong performance in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections.

This debacle serves as a serious lesson in how to let opportunities slip away. The MVA lost an election it could have won with minimal effort, and just swept away in a political tsunami it failed to anticipate. It's a reminder of the need to stay connected with the ground and its 'janata' (people). Humility to at least acknowledge missteps and serious introspection are urgently recommended for them

I struggle to recall any of their political messages resonating with voters anywhere in the state. Not a single one. The MVA seemed stuck in a loop of recycled tape-vague schemes, half-hearted promises, and relentless negativity. Statements like 'Samvidhan khatre mein hai (The Constitution is in danger)', accusations against opponents, and calls for caste censuses dominated their narrative. Add to that a fair bit of conspiracy theories, and you have a situation where voters just switched them off. The endless barrage of negative sentiments alienated voters who had clearly moved on, leaving the MVA clueless about the big change underway in a matter of months.

Did the MVA offer even a single story to enthuse voters? I can recall none. Their campaign lacked focus, vision, and an inspiring message - some of the common elements find in parties that are ready to learn and not gloss over slips.

The Congress needs to understand that its de facto leader Rahul Gandhi has failed to deliver thus far. His personal obsessions get the better of him most of the time, preventing him from crafting the broad political platform India expects from a national opposition party. Uddhav Thackeray fell into the same trap. Only Sharad Pawar offered a narrative that resonated with voters, but the noise generated by Gandhi and Thackeray overshadowed any meaningful messaging.

Gandhi and Thackeray, for reasons best known to them, focused their campaign on Dharavi, as if they were contesting a municipal ward election or campaigning for a single assembly constituency, rather than addressing the other 287 seats in the large and very important state of Maharashtra. They failed to recognise that voters in the state are attuned to the larger national picture and eager to reclaim Maharashtra's prime position among India's galloping states.

It's puzzling why Rahul Gandhi harbours a personal obsession with targeting a first-generation entrepreneur, especially when such posturing fails to translate into votes for his party. He must also know that 62 percent of even MVA voters want their Dharavi to become the pride of place it has the potential to become.

His anti-business stance was rejected by Maharashtra voters, who see it as part of a broader agenda-perhaps influenced by corporate rivalries or external forces jealous of India's accelerated ascent now. This perception has damaged Gandhi's credibility, as voters increasingly see his actions as not very conducive to the kind of India it is getting ready to become.

Indians have consistently demonstrated their desire for a robust democracy, which includes a strong opposition to keep the ruling party in check. The outcome of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections exhibited that democratic instinct. However, the risk to democracy doesn't come from Narendra Modi, the BJP, or the RSS - it stems from the Congress's inability to effectively play its role as a responsible opposition party. Regional parties, to some extent, are playing this role more effectively. And they are winning elections too, and for years.

The Maharashtra results have further diminished any lingering hope that the Congress can rise to the challenges. The party suffers too much from cynicism, conspiracy theories, and a total disconnect from the aspirations of growing India.

Can the Congress finally make a comeback and surprise us all? If they are really serious about India's democracy, they owe at least that much to all of us.

(Sanjay Pugalia is the CEO & Editor-in-Chief, AMG Media Network)

Disclaimer: These are the personal opinions of the authors

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India All-Rounder Reported For Suspected Action, Likely To Be Banned

IPL 2025 mega auctions are all set to take place on Sunday in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The highly-anticipated event will be continued till Monday as a whopping total of 1,574 players (1,165 Indian and 409 overseas) will be going under the hammer. Just two days before the auctions, a shocking report has come to light that India all-rounder Deepak Hooda, who played for Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2024, has been included in BCCI's suspected bowlers' list and is likely to be banned from bowling.

According to a report of Cricbuzz, Hooda and Saurabh Dubey and KC Cariappa are being suspected by BCCI for their illegal bowling action.

"Manish Pandey (KSCA, 157) and Shrijith Krishnan (KSCA, 281) have been banned from bowling while Deepak Hooda, an off-spinner from Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA), is in the suspect bowling list. Saurabh Dubey (344, VCA) and KC Cariappa (381, CAM) are also in the suspect list," stated Cricbuzz in a report.

Hooda was released by LSG ahead of the auctions. He had a very lukewarm outing in IPL 2024 as he scored only 145 runs in 11 games and went wicketless.

Talking about his international career, Hooda has played 10 ODIs for India and scored 153 runs. In T20Is, he has played 21 matches and 368 runs with one century to his name.

His last international appearance came in the T20I match against New Zealand in February 2023, where he scored 30 runs.

Talking about IPL, a report also suggested that the upcoming season will be held from March 14 to May 25.

The BCCI has also decided to include injury-prone England pacer Jofra Archer, Indian-born American pacer Saurabh Netravalkar and uncapped Mumbai-wicketkeeper-batter Hardik Tamore in the two-day mega players' auction.

In its communication to the franchises, the Board has stated that the dates for the next three seasons are being shared at once to "assist the franchises in planning for the players' auction." The 2026 edition of the tournament will start on March 15 and the grand finale has been scheduled for May 31.

The 2027 edition will once again start on March 14 with the final on May 30. All three finals will be held on Sundays.

(With PTI Inputs)

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This Asian City Is Emerging As Sex Tourism Hub. It's Not Where You Think

In the golden years, this city witnessed a significant economic boom. It remains one of the most liveable cities in the world, a financial power hub and also an emerging city for sex tourism, with men wandering on the streets, looking for women.

The city is not where you are thinking. Apart from Bangkok in Thailand, Tokyo is emerging as a hotbed for sex tourism, with multiple factors driving the interest among foreign tourists, one of them being the weakening of the Japanese Yen against other currencies and robust inbound tourism.

The Star reported quoting, Yoshihide Tanaka, secretary general of the Liaison Council Protecting Youths (Seiboren), that "Japan has become a poor country." Adding, that a park next to his organisation has become synonymous with the city's sex trade. He said they had noticed an increasing number of foreigners frequenting the park as soon as pandemic-era travel restrictions were dropped.

"Now we are seeing a lot more foreign men," he said. "They come from many countries. They are white, Asian, black - but the majority are Chinese," he said. This influx has coincided with a troubling rise in teenagers and women in their early twenties turning to the sex industry to survive, Tanaka said.

"The reality is that Japan has become a country where foreign men can obtain young women and essentially buy sexual services," Japan Times reported quoting Kazunori Yamanoi of the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, the country's main opposition party. "This is no longer just a domestic issue," he said. "It's a very serious problem regarding how Japanese women are perceived in the international community."

The cops have been cracking down on such activities. Earlier this week, the Tokyo Metropolitan Police arrested five people on suspicion of violating Japan's Employment Security Act. They were allegedly running an operation to recruit women through social media to work in the sex industry. According to police, the suspects' group signed contracts with about 350 shops nationwide and recruited women through social media.

Financial distress suffered by women during Covid-19 is a major factor pushing them into the sex trade, with many wanting to pay off their debts. Some simply want to spend money at host clubs. 

Japan Times earlier reported that establishments, where men flirt with women over food and drink, like host clubs, put women in an endless cycle of debt through malicious schemes. These clubs have been linked to an increase in sex work, including illegal operations overseas and street solicitors, the report said.

According to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), around 43% of women arrested while working the street in 2023 said they started selling their bodies to pay for host clubs and underground male idols. About 80% of those arrested were in their 20s, while three were 19 or younger.

The loopholes in the law and poor implementation of the existing ones have put women in vulnerable positions, often exposing them to physical violence and sexually transmitted diseases. In countries like The Netherlands, prostitution is legal but the industry is highly regulated to ensure the protection of women with increased vigilance in combating human trafficking and other forms of criminal activity, but sex trafficking still remains a pressing issue in the country. 

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2 Arrested In Odisha For Killing Leopard, Eating Its Meat

Two persons in Odisha's Nuapada district allegedly killed a leopard and ate its meat, officials said on Wednesday.

Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF) Susanta Nanda said people who kill leopard and consume its meat should be ostracised.

The forest officials of Komna forest range on Tuesday seized the severed leopard head, skins and meat and arrested two persons from the spot.

The two and their associates laid a trap to hunt wild boars near the forest in Deodhara village. However, a leopard fell into the trap. "They killed the leopard and consumed its meat", the PCCF said.

Condemning the eating of leopard meat, Susanta Nanda said such behaviour has no place in a civilised society and people who kill leopard and consume its meat should be ostracised.

"This kind of people should be socially ostracised. The people should be aware that this is not acceptable in a civil society" he said .

Describing the eating of leopard meat by the two persons as "barbaric", Susanta Nanda said, "In my long career as a forest department officer, I have never heard a human being eating meat of leopard or tiger. It is common that tigers kill humans and eat their flesh. This is a unique incident in the state".

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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AR Rahman's Wife Saira Announces Separation After 29 Years Of Marriage

Oscar winning composer AR Rahman and his wife Saira, after nearly 30 years of marriage, today jointly announced through their lawyer that they have "made the difficult decision to separate" from each other.

"After many years of marriage, Mrs. Saira and her husband Mr. A R. Rahman have made the difficult decision to separate from each other," read a statement from Vandana Shah and Associates, their lawyer.

The decision, said the lawyer, "comes after significant emotional strain in their relationship".

"Despite their deep love for each other, the couple has found that the tensions and difficulties have created an insurmountable gap between them, one that neither party feels able to bridge at this time," the statement said, underscoring that the "decision comes out of pain and agony".

"Mrs. Saira and her husband Mr. A R. Rahman request privacy and understanding from the public during this challenging time, as they navigate this difficult chapter in their life," the statement further added.

The couple married in 1995 and are parents to three children: Khatija, Raheema and Ameen.

In his Instagram Stories, their son Ameen wrote, "We kindly request everyone to respect our privacy during this time. Thank you for your understanding."

AR Rahman, who won the Oscar for his work on Slumdog Millionaire, was once dubbed "the Mozart of Madras" by Time magazine.

The musician, who started playing music at the age of five, got his first break with the 1992 movie Roja. It was a hit, and Rahman's soundtrack led to him winning the national award for best music composer.

"How come you opted for an arranged marriage?" Simi Garewal asked the ace composer in 2012 on her popular chart show 'Rendezvous with Simi Garewal'.

"To be honest I didn't have the time to go and search for a bride," said a smiling Rahman, eliciting a chuckle from the host. 

"I was doing all those films - Rangeela , Bombay and all that stuff. Was so busy in that, but I knew that was the right time for me to get married. I was 29. And I told my mother. I said find me a bride," said Rahman 

"Did you have any specifications?" asked Ms Garewal      

"I want a simple wife. The one who won't give me much trouble. So I could carry on doing my music," Rahman answered. 

Ms Garewal then reminded Rahman that he had asked his mother to find her a bride with "some education, some beauty and loads of humility". 

Rahman smiled and nodded in the affirmative. 

Asked how they met, Rahman also revealed that his mother found Saira's sister near a Sufi shrine and one thing led to another and soon they were married.

  

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Son Of Norway Crown Princess Arrested On Suspicion Of Rape: Report

Marius Borg Hoiby, the 27-year-old son of Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has been arrested on suspicion of rape. He was taken into custody on Monday in Oslo on a preliminary charge of having sexual intercourse with someone unconscious or unable to resist the act, CNN reported. Police specified that he is accused of carrying out a "sexual act without intercourse" on a victim "said to have been unable to resist the act." Authorities have not disclosed when the alleged rape took place. 

The alleged victim, a woman in her 20s, didn't know Marius Hoiby before meeting him on the day of the incident, according to her lawyer, Hege Salomon. She also wasn't in a romantic relationship with Hoiby.

Hoiby pleaded not guilty to the charge, and was cooperating with the police and wanted to explain himself, his defence attorney Oyvind Bratlien told Norwegian state broadcaster NRK on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the alleged victim's lawyer, Hege Salomon, said that the woman "is having a hard time" and said that police had brought the case, not her client.

“We do not have a comment on this case and direct all questions to police and attorney for Marius Borg Hoiby,” Simen Sund, Communications Advisor for the Royal Palace, told NBC News.

This isn't Hoiby's first run-in with the law as he was previously detained in August for bodily harm and criminal damage. He was arrested again in September for allegedly violating a restraining order.

In August, he issued a statement saying he had "struggled with substance abuse for a long time". He said he would "resume" treatment for the problem and "take it very seriously".

Notably, Hoiby was born in 1997 from a relationship prior to Mette-Marit's 2001 marriage to Crown Prince Haakon, the heir apparent to the Norwegian throne. He and his step-siblings -- Princess Ingrid Alexandra, 20 and Prince Sverre Magnus, 18 -- were raised together by Mette-Marit and Haakon.

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He Broke Into Homes To Hit Sleeping Women On Head. Cops Explain Why

A 30-year-old man, who was arrested for allegedly breaking into homes at night and hitting sleeping women on the head in Uttar Pradesh's Gorakhpur, has told police that he held a grudge against women and sought to take revenge after he was imprisoned in a 2022 child abuse case.

At a press briefing at the White House at Gorakhpur Police Line on Sunday, Gorakhpur Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Gaurav Grover said the accused, Ajay Nishad, was involved in five such attacks on women, one of whom even succumbed to injuries. He would also speak to his girlfriend over the phone after committing each assault, police said.

"He always wore black clothes and remained barefoot as he broke into homes and hit women on the head with sticks or rods. He liked hitting the head of his women inmates in jail and that is why he carried out such assaults once he was released," SSP Grover said.

The police earlier said that Nishad was in prison for six months in a 2022 child abuse case. Out on bail, he lived in Surat for a while before returning to Gorakhpur. He carried out his first attack on the night of July 30, when he entered a house and hit a woman on the head, before fleeing away with some jewellery.

The police said that Nishad's role in the crime was established on the basis of CCTV footage of the localities he struck in.

They added that tracing the accused was a "challenging" task. Several teams were formed and a prize of Rs 100,000 was also announced for the team that would arrest the accused.

The police have recovered several blunt objects, including an iron rod and a bed leg, suspected to have been used in the attacks. They said they would put the matter before a fast-track court and ensure strict punishment for Nishad.

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Why Peace In The Middle East Might Be Beyond Trump's Deal-Making Skills

Donald Trump's re-election as the US president last week comes at a time of extreme volatility in the Middle East.

The president-elect has promised to end all wars. In his usual impulsive and unpredictable manner, he has pledged to resolve the Ukraine war within 24 hours of taking office and help Israel finish its Gaza and Lebanon operations quickly.

Yet the Middle East is a complex place. Trump will have much difficulty balancing his ardent support of Israel and his other ambitions in the region, especially given the changing dynamics between Iran and its rival, Saudi Arabia.

Here's what Trump can expect when he takes office in a few months.

Collapse of talks between Israel and Hamas

Overshadowed by the US election was Qatar's announcement that it has paused its role as a ceasefire mediator between Israel and Hamas.

The tiny, oil-rich emirate has worked hard over the past year to try to reach a deal to end the war. In the process, it made good use of its close relations with the United States, which has its largest Middle East military base in Qatar, and with Hamas, whose political leadership and office have been based in Doha. This, Qatar believed, would help it gain the confidence of the warring parties.

However, its efforts did not produce anything more than a brief ceasefire last year, which resulted in the release of more than 100 Israeli hostages in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners.

Lebanon Ceasefire: Israel and Lebanon are reportedly “in advanced stages” of reaching a ceasefire agreement. This deal appears to attempt to more successfully implement UNSCR 1701, which prohibits Lebanese Hezbollah military activity in southern Lebanon. https://t.co/lV2KCHvNcj pic.twitter.com/Qq9Gb20icw

— Institute for the Study of War (@TheStudyofWar) October 30, 2024

There are several reasons for this.

For one, the two sides cannot get past a couple of main sticking points. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has resolved to eliminate Hamas completely, ruling out a temporary truce. Hamas is demanding a complete end to the fighting and total Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza.

Meanwhile, Washington has failed to play a meaningful role in the talks. While repeatedly emphasising its desire for a ceasefire, the Biden administration did not at any point put tangible pressure on Israel beyond diplomatic rhetoric.

It has also refused to cut off military aid to Israel. Instead, it approved a US$20 billion (A$30 billion) arms sale to Israel in August. This means Netanyahu has had no compelling reason to divert from his mission.

A possible ceasefire in Lebanon

As the chances of a Gaza ceasefire have faded, hopes have been raised about a Lebanon ceasefire.

Washington has reportedly engaged in intensive diplomatic efforts to get Israel and Hezbollah to reach a common ground to end the fighting there.

Israel wants Hezbollah to be disarmed and pushed back at least beyond the Litani River in southern Lebanon – about 30km north of the Israeli border – with a security zone to be established between the two. Israel wants to maintain the right to strike Hezbollah if necessary, which Lebanese authorities are likely to reject.

Israel has considerably weakened Hezbollah in its bombing and ground invasion of southern Lebanon at the expense of massive civilian casualties.

However, just as Israel has not been able to wipe out Hamas, it has so far not succeeded in crippling Hezbollah to the extent it would be forced to accept a ceasefire on Israel's terms. The militant group continues to possess sufficient political and military prowess to remain resilient.

Changing regional dynamics

Now, Trump re-enters the scene.

His electoral triumph has comforted Netanyahu's government to the extent that his finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich, has asked the relevant authorities to prepare for the formal annexation of Jewish settlements in the West Bank.

Trump has been a committed supporter of Israel for a long time. During his first presidency he recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and ordered the US embassy to move there. He also recognised Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, which Israel seized from Syria in 1967.

He castigated Iran as the real villain in the region and withdrew the US from the multilateral Iran nuclear agreement. He also instigated the Abraham Accords, in which several Arab states normalised relations with Israel.

However, the Gaza and Lebanon wars, as well as the direct military exchanges between Israel and Iran over the past year, have changed the regional texture.

Trump has voiced unwavering backing of Israel against Hamas and Hezbollah, and is likely to resuscitate his “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran. This could involve strangling Tehran with stringent sanctions and blocking its oil exports, while seeking to isolate it internationally.

President-elect Donald Trump plans to drastically increase sanctions on Iran and throttle its oil sales, according to people briefed on his early plans https://t.co/43wvCXt5NH

— The Wall Street Journal (@WSJ) November 9, 2024

Meanwhile, as a transactional leader, Trump also wants to strengthen America's lucrative economic and trade ties with the Arab governments of the region.

However, these countries have been shaken by the scale of Israel's Gaza and Lebanon operations. Their populations are boiling over with frustration at their leaders' inability to counter Israel's actions. This is nowhere more evident than in Jordan.

As a result, Saudi Arabia – America's richest and most consequential Arab ally in the region – has lately taken the lead in voicing strong opposition to Israel. Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has also made a path toward an independent Palestinian state a condition of normalising relations with Israel.

Further, Riyadh is strengthening its more than year-long rapprochement with its arch rival, Iran. The two countries' defence ministers met last weekend, following a joint military exercise involving their navies.

In addition, Bin Salman has just convened a meeting of Arab and Muslim leaders in Riyadh to forge a consensual position in dealing with Israel and the incoming Trump administration.

Gulf states wary of return to Trump's ‘maximum pressure' against Iran https://t.co/CogsazuGbf

— Financial Times (@FT) November 12, 2024

Where is it all heading?

Trump will need to find a balance between his commitment to Israel and upholding America's close relations with its traditional Arab allies. This will be crucial to ending the Middle East wars and rebuffing Iran.

Tehran is no longer as vulnerable to Trump's venom as it may have been in the past. It is more powerful militarily and enjoys strong strategic relations with Russia, China and North Korea, as well as improved relations with regional Arab states.

Given the absence of a Gaza ceasefire, the thin hope of a halt to the Lebanon fighting, Netanyahu's intransigence and Trump's pursuance of an “Israel first” policy, the Middle East's volatility is likely to persist.

It may prove to be as much of a headache for Trump as it was for Joe Biden in a very polarised and unpredictable world.

(Author: Amin Saikal, Emeritus Professor of Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies, Australian National University)

(Disclosure Statement: Amin Saikal does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.)

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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"Does She...?": Kabir Bedi's First Wife On His Affair With Parveen Babi

Kabir Bedi's personal life is no less than cinema. The Kurbaan actor, who always defied societal norms, talked about his affair and break-up with Parveen Babi in an interview with Digital Commentary. Kabir said in the interview he didn't leave Parveen Babi but the actress left him in the fear that he would pressurize her to undergo a treatment for her mental illness. In this context, Kabir Bedi's anecdotes from his autobiography Stories I Must Tell: The Emotional Journey Of An Actor gained the limelight. In the book, he wrote about his marriage to Odissi dancer Protima Bedi and how he broke the news of his affair with Parveen Babi in front of Protima.

Describing his troubled marriage to Protima, Kabir Bedi wrote in the book, "It had led to a lack of intimacy between us. I didn't feel the love that I wanted, the caring and sharing I needed. Nor was I able to give it. The old magic had gone. I was feeling alone, empty and dejected." Getting candid about how he revealed his affair to his wife, he wrote, "There was no easy way to break the news to Protima. 'I'm going over to Parveen's tonight,' I said softly when she came in. 'Parveen's!' she repeated in surprise. I could see her computing what must have happened. 'But I've only just arrived. Can't you stay tonight at least?' I shook my head. 'No, I have to be with her tonight ... and every night.' In that moment, she realised that our relationship had changed forever."

Kabir Bedi also wrote in vivid details how his wife reacted to his affair with Parveen Babi. "She let out a deep breath and looked at me. 'Do you love her?' I nodded, not without sadness. 'Does she love you?' she asked, her voice a notch higher. 'Yes,' I said gruffly, wanting to cry. I knew I was ending a relationship where we'd shared life-changing experiences together, happy and unhappy, moral and immoral, for six tumultuous years. But I didn't want to show vulnerability. I had to be strong to end it. I held her by the shoulders to embrace her goodbye. She clung to me and burst out crying. Then she sat down on the bed and sighed deeply before she spoke. 'Please leave me alone now,' she said in a firm voice as tears welled in her eyes. 'Leave me alone. Please go!' Our 'open marriage' was over."

In addition to his work in films like Kurbaan, The Hero: Love Story of a Spy, and Dilwale, Kabir Bedi has also appeared in many international projects, including The Archer: Fugitive from the Empire, La tigre e ancora viva: Sandokan alla riscossa! and The Thief of Baghdad.

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लोग भगाने के बजाय इस 'सांप' को घरों में सजाते हैं! क्या है इसकी खास वजह?

Naag Champa Plant :आमतौर पर जब भी आप अपने घरों में सांप देखते हैं, तो डर के मारे उसे वहां से भगाने की कोशिश करते हैं, लेकिन आज हम आपको एक ऐसे सांप के बारे में बताएंगे, जिसे आप भगाएंगे नहीं, बल्कि अपने घर की सजावट के लिए रखना चाहेंगे. हम बात कर रहे हैं एक पौधे की, जो सांप की तरह दिखता है और जिसका नाम है सांप चम्पा.

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Madhya Pradesh Official Gets Show Cause Notice For Laughing During Hearing

A government official received a show cause notice for allegedly laughing in the presence of his senior colleagues during a public hearing in Madhya Pradesh's Chhatarpur district.

The show cause notice, issued on October 30, surfaced on social media on Saturday evening.

The notice was purportedly issued by additional collector Milind Nagdev to KK Tiwari, the assistant manager of e-governance at the district collector's office.

The notice stated that Tiwari was found laughing during the public hearing on October 29 in the presence of senior officials, which amounted to indiscipline and carelessness towards duty.

Public hearings are organised at select government offices on Tuesdays across the state.

In the notice, the additional collector stated that this was serious misconduct under the MP Civil Services Conduct Rules 1965 and punishable under MP Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules 1966.

Talking to reporters, the additional collector claimed he was unaware of how the show cause notice was issued and that he would inquire at his office.

Tiwari, however, said he had already submitted his reply to the notice.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Family Claims Dead Man's Eye Taken Out In Bihar Hospital, Doctors Blame Rats

As the family of a man who died of a bullet injury while undergoing treatment in a Patna hospital was grieving, another shock awaited them - his left eye went missing hours after his death. While the family has alleged that the eye was taken out by doctors as part of a "business", the hospital administration has pinned the blame on rats. 

The man, Fantus Kumar, was admitted to Patna's second-largest hospital, Nalanda Medical College and Hospital (NMCH), on Thursday after being shot in his abdomen in Nalanda. Kumar was admitted to the ICU but was declared dead at 8:55 pm on Friday. The family was with him in the hospital till 1 am on Saturday and when they returned a few hours later, they found his left eye missing.

The man's brother-in-law claimed that someone from the hospital had removed the eye. "How can they be so negligent? Either someone from the hospital conspired with the people who shot him or the hospital is involved in some business of taking people's eyes out," he said. 

"If we can't trust such a big facility, who can we trust? Someone took his eye out in the ICU and the hospital is saying it doesn't know what has happened. This is very unfortunate," he added. 

Police officials said CCTV footage is being examined.

 "The man's family has alleged that his eye has been taken out. It is clear the body has been tampered with. The doctors have said rats could have bitten off the eye, and we are investigating," said an official. 

NMCH Medical Superintendent Dr Vinod Kumar Singh said rats could be responsible and that a thorough investigation is being conducted. 

"Fantus Kumar was admitted to the ICU after suffering a firearm injury. He was operated upon and the bullet was removed, but he died at 8:55 pm on Friday. His family was with him till 1 am and they informed us at 5 am that his left eye was missing. We are trying to look into what has happened. An FIR has been filed," he said. 

"The possibility of rats biting off the eye cannot be ignored. We will have to wait for a post-mortem. This is not acceptable, and anyone found guilty of negligence will be punished," he added.

Mr Singh also argued that removing an eye, which can only be used for a corneal transplant, won't make much sense in Kumar's case because he was dead for at least four hours before it went missing. 

"The patient died at 8.55 pm and the incident happened after 1.00 am. The eye, even if someone took it out, won't be of much use. An eye can only be used if it is surgically removed within four to six hours of the death," he said.

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ट्रैक्टर का मालिक गुस्से में पहुंचा थाने, शिकायत सुनते ही दौड़े अफसर

Kota Latest News: राजस्थान के कोटा में चोरों ने हद पार कर दी. शख्स के घर के बाहर खड़ा ट्रैक्टर और ट्राली चोर रात में चुरा ले गए. सुबह जब मालिक उठा तो देख उसके होश उड़ गए. आइए जानते हैं पूरा मामला.

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"Resolve Complaints On Pollution Within A Week": Panel To Delhi, Other States

With an aim to ensure strict enforcement of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) measures to control air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR), a crucial review meeting was chaired on Saturday in New Delhi, a release said.

The meeting was chaired by Sujit Kumar Bajpayee, Member, of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).

During the meeting, it was highlighted that the upcoming winter season is a crucial period and thus the actions to be taken under different stages of GRAP, are to be implemented in true letter and spirit. The action taken reports received in the GRAP Monitoring Control Room on a daily basis from different implementing authorities responsible for the abatement of air pollution in NCR States, was deliberated through a detailed presentation, inter-alia highlighting the following issues:

The actions required to be taken under Stage III of GRAP, invoked since November 15 are in addition to the actions under Stage I and Stage II, which were invoked on October 15 and October 22 respectively. All implementing and enforcement agencies were advised to go through the revised GRAP guidelines, which are available on the website of the Commission.

Daily reports on the action taken by NCR States are being generated and shared with Nodal Officers for corrective measures through the WhatsApp group of GRAP Monitoring Control Room, created for a smooth flow of information. The data is also being presented in different meetings with NCR States and the same was also highlighted in high-level meetings held recently with Govt. of Delhi on November 8 and Govt. of Haryana on November 12.

Actions to be taken in Stage III of GRAP, in addition to Stage I and Stage II, were also presented and explained in detail including banned and permitted Construction and Demolition (C&D) activities during Stage III of GRAP. With the invocation of Stage-III of GRAP, data on additional parameters under different sectors viz. Vehicular, C&D, Stone crusher and Mining needs to be submitted on a daily basis as per shared format.

Based on the detailed presentation, inter-alia, the following issues were highlighted:

The non-compliance of dust control measures by C&D sites resulting in possible adverse impact on air quality in NCR must be dealt with strongly and all actions for levying Environmental Compensation (EC) and closure should be taken against such units till full compliance is achieved. Further, inspection for C&D sites must be intensified and actions for non-compliance are also required to be taken with a uniform approach.

It was also highlighted that with the invocation of Stage III of GRAP, it is imperative that the numbers of Mechanical Road Sweeping Machines (MRSMs) are augmented without further delay.

The effort for challenging the vehicle for non-possession of PUC and impounding End-of-Life (EoL) vehicles is also to be intensified further by traffic police and transport departments of NCR states considering their huge potential to deteriorate air quality further.

It was also highlighted that the rate of resolution of complaints on different apps/ X (Twitter) is not satisfactory. Further, concerned States must resolve the grievances within a week's time and tag CAQM while closing the complaints.

After detailed discussions, inter-alia, the following action points were directed by Member, CAQM to concerned implementing authorities responsible for the abatement of air pollution in NCR:

All actions prescribed under GRAP need to be enforced strictly in true letter and spirit.

Special attention must be given to all identified hotspots in NCR states. GNCTD had already presented their action plan for identified hotspots in the high-level meeting held in Commission on November 8 The same must be taken up on priority, except those actions which are prohibited under GRAP.

The pending complaints from citizens on different Apps and Social Media till date must be resolved within a week. Further, CAQM must be tagged on social media while forwarding and resolving the complaints so that they are properly tracked and monitored.

Nodal officers for all agencies should coordinate actions in their respective agencies and concerned State Pollution Control Board (SPCB)/ DPCC to also monitor the actions by different agencies besides action required by themselves.

Daily reporting of actions under GRAP Stage-III must be provided in a shared format to the Commission on a daily basis without fail.

In case of any clarification required, specific reference may be made to the Commission.

Officials of concerned agencies shall be held accountable for any laxity in the enforcement of the above directions and the same may attract action under provisions of the CAQM Act.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Video: Man Finds Insects In Sambhar On Vande Bharat Train, Railways Reacts

A passenger's Vande Bharat train journey turned unsavoury when he found insects in the meal served to him. Visuals shared on social media showed black insects floating in sambhar served in an aluminium container.

Several passengers on the same train - travelling from Tirunelveli to Chennai - complained that even though the train service was good, the food provided was not satisfactory.

Congress MP Manickam Tagore shared one such video and sought to know what steps were being taken to address the issue.

"Passengers have raised concerns over hygiene and IRCTC's accountability. What steps are being taken to address this and ensure food safety on premium trains?" he posted on X.

Dear @AshwiniVaishnaw ji ,live insects 🦟 were found in the food served on the Tirunelveli-Chennai #VandeBharatExpress

Passengers have raised concerns over hygiene and IRCTC's accountability.
What steps are being taken to address this and ensure food safety on premium trains? pic.twitter.com/auR2bqtmip

— Manickam Tagore .B🇮🇳மாணிக்கம் தாகூர்.ப (@manickamtagore) November 16, 2024

The railways responded to the complaint and said that an "immediate investigation was conducted" and the food package was handed over to a health inspector at Dindigul station.

The investigation found that the insect was stuck on the lid of the food package, the railways said.

It also imposed a fine of Rs 50,000 on the service provider for this incident.

Railways is committed to ensuring the quality of food and passenger complaints are being resolved promptly, it said.

This is not the first such instance reported from a Vande Bharat train. A few months ago, a man claimed on social media that he found a cockroach in his meal.

Vande Bharat trains - a medium-distance superfast express service - are a part of the 'Make in India' initiative by the government. High Speed, enhanced Safety standards and world-class Service are the hallmarks of this train, according to the Ministry of Railways.

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7000 सांपों की जान बचा चुके हैं सर्प मित्र रमेश नायक, घर पर साथ रखकर करते हैं

Snake Rescue: रमेश नायक जैसे सर्प मित्र सांपों के साथ-साथ समाज के लिए भी वरदान हैं. किसी बाहरी जगह पर सांप मिलने पर उसे मारने की बजाय हमें सर्प मित्रों से संपर्क करना चाहिए. हर प्राणी के जीवन का मूल्य अपने जीवन की भांति समझना चाहिए. रमेश द्वारा निशुल्क काम करना सराहनीय है.

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This Creature Could Take Over Earth If Humanity Disappears, Scientists Warn

The human race lives with myriad existential threats that can come at us from all sides, from the immediate threat of artificial intelligence entering every aspect of life to the terrible consequences of climate change and out of sight but inevitable eternal Earth demise. As we live with these, some scientists have pondered a fascinating question: If humans were to become extinct, which species might rise to dominance?

One of the most interesting candidates could be the octopus, which is known for its intelligence and versatility. This marine animal, highly adaptable, has a unique set of abilities that may make it well-equipped to survive and thrive on Earth in the post-human era-a complex nervous system, problem-solving ability, and capacity for learning and innovation, making them different from all other animals.

Professor Tim Coulson of the University of Oxford said octopuses are supremely intelligent' and have the 'dexterity, curiosity, and ability to communicate with each other." This puts them in a 'pole position' to take over the world one day.

"Octopuses are among the most intelligent, adaptable, and resourceful creatures on Earth," he told The European.

"Octopuses are capable of distinguishing between real and virtual objects, solving puzzles, interacting with their environment, handling intricate tools with their thumb-like tentacles, and thriving in a wide variety of habitats, from deep-sea trenches to coastal regions," he said.

This idea has sparked lively discussions among scientists, who have explored the potential of various species to fill the void left by humanity. The octopus, with its remarkable capabilities, has emerged as a strong contender for this role. Its ability to camouflage, its dexterous limbs, and its advanced cognitive functions make it a formidable creature, capable of overcoming challenges and adapting to changing environments.

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Opinion: Tribal Society And Pride Of Birsa Munda: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Writes For NDTV

The tribal society of India is rich in history, culture, and valour, with a legacy marked by struggle for identity, freedom, and dignity. This society has been fighting for its rights and freedom for centuries. The symbol of this wonderful heritage is Bhagwan Birsa Munda, who raised his voice against the exploitation of the tribal society.

Born in Ulihatu (now in Jharkhand) in 1875, Birsa Munda's life, struggle, and sacrifices for the preservation of tribal autonomy and culture are etched in the history of India. The struggle (Ulgulan) to save the tribal identity, autonomy and culture is unforgettable. Due to his contribution and sacrifice for the tribals, Birsa Munda is fondly called as "Dharti Aaba" (God on Earth), a symbol of respect and reverence towards him by the tribal community.

Bhagwan Birsa Munda dreamt of an exploitation-free, egalitarian society. Following his ideals, the state of Chhattisgarh is constantly striving for the all-round development of the tribal society.

Since the BJP government came to power at the Centre, significant steps have been taken towards the empowerment of the tribal community. Under the leadership of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, states like Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand were formed so that tribal-dominated areas could be developed and their identity could be respected.

This decision provided the tribal community an opportunity to preserve its traditions and cultural heritage. The ST Commission was made independent and empowered to bring the tribal community into the mainstream so that their voice could be heard effectively.

On his 150th birth anniversary, it is a moment of immense pride that both the central and state governments are working relentlessly to turn his dreams into reality.

Birsa Munda aimed at empowering tribal communities. In line with this vision, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched several initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Gaurav Yojana and the PM PVTG (Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group) Vikas Mission to ensure the all-round development of tribal society. These schemes have been created to realise the overall development and self-reliance of the tribal society.

In recognition of the invaluable contributions of tribal heroes across the country, Prime Minister Modi declared November 15 as "Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas".

Prime Minister Modi's special dedication towards the tribal society is playing an important role in the development of Chhattisgarh. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, various schemes have been introduced to uplift the tribal society, with special emphasis on the development of Chhattisgarh. The Pradhan Mantri Janjati Unnat Gram Abhiyan, which aims to empower five crore tribal people across 63,000 villages, is a transformative step in improving the lives of tribal families in the state. These programmes focus on providing basic infrastructure like roads, telecom connectivity, electricity, housing, health services, and education in remote tribal areas.

The government of Chhattisgarh is committed to the overall development of tribal regions, which constitute nearly 30 per cent of the state's population. Special schemes have been launched to elevate their standard of living. For instance, under the Niyad Nella Nar Yojana, crucial facilities like housing, healthcare, and education are being provided to 96 villages in Maoist-affected areas, significantly improving the quality of life for these communities. Additionally, the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Special Health Assistance Scheme is providing financial assistance of up to Rs 20 lakh for the treatment of serious diseases in poor tribal families.

The state government has also allocated Rs 1.52 lakh crore for agriculture and rural development, with a special focus on tribal areas.

In the field of education, Chhattisgarh is setting new standards with the establishment of 75 Eklavya Adarsh Residential Schools and 15 Prayas Residential Schools in Maoist-affected regions. These institutions aim to provide tribal children with quality education and opportunities to compete at higher levels. Textbooks in 18 local languages have been introduced to facilitate learning in mother tongues, and the state is also developing 263 schools as model institutions under the PM Shri scheme.

To improve road connectivity, the Bharatmala Project is constructing an economic corridor connecting Raipur to Visakhapatnam, which will benefit the tribal areas of Chhattisgarh. This project will boost trade, create employment opportunities, and bring tribal communities into the economic mainstream.

The forest resources of Chhattisgarh are a key part of tribal life. In a bid to ensure fair pricing for forest products, the government has increased the rate for the collection of tendu leaves from Rs 4,000 to Rs 5,500, benefiting more than 12 lakh families. Alongside this, 10,000 bio-input resource centres are being established to promote organic farming and sustainable practices.

Our government has introduced various incentive schemes under the new industrial policy to economically empower the people of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes categories and increase their participation in the industrial sector.

To empower the communities living in the forest area of ​​the state, homestays and tourism are being promoted in tribal dominated areas like Bastar and Surguja, as well as local sports activities like Bastar Olympics are being enriched. This step will not only preserve the cultural identity of the state but will also provide employment and economic independence to the local people.

A large part of Chhattisgarh has been affected by Naxalism.

Under the new industrial policy, special incentive packages have been prepared for those Naxalites who want to surrender and return to the mainstream. Under this, surrendered Naxalites will be encouraged for entrepreneurship. They will be given vocational training as well as financial assistance, so that they can give a new direction to their lives and lead a respectable life in the society.

Special provisions have been made in Chhattisgarh's new industrial policy for the development of tribal society and employment generation. The policy will provide concessions on setting up industries in tribal-dominated areas, which will increase economic opportunities in these areas. Along with this, special schemes have been made to promote traditional tribal art, handicrafts, and forest product processing. The government wants the tribal society to become self-reliant by taking advantage of these opportunities.

Thanks to the efforts of the central government, especially under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, tribal communities are experiencing a new era of hope, pride, and self-respect.

As we commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, we are reminded of his vision of a self-reliant, prosperous, and respected tribal society. Inspired by his ideals, the government of Chhattisgarh is committed to ensuring that every tribal citizen of the state receives their rightful share of development, dignity, and prosperity.

Our government will continue to make continuous efforts in this direction and together we will build a self-reliant and prosperous tribal society.

(This article is written by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Chhattisgarh, on the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda and "Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas")

Disclaimer: These are the personal opinions of the author.

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Sanju Samson's Father's Rant Goes Viral: "4 People Wasted My Son's Career"

A video has gone viral on social media where Samson Viswanath, father of India cricketer Sanju Samson, can be seen makin a shocking claim regarding his son's international career. In the viral rant, Viswanath accused former India captains MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for wasting a decade of Samson's international career. He also put the blame on former India head coach Rahul Dravid, whom Samson grew up idolising. Samson, who recently became the first Indian to score back-to-back centuries in T20Is, struggled to get regular game time until Rohit and Virat announced their retirements from T20Is earlier this year.

"There are 3-4 people who wasted 10 years of my son's vital career...captains like Dhoni ji, Virat [Kohli] ji, Rohit [Sharma] ji and coach [Rahul] Dravid ji. These four people wasted 10 years of my son's life but the more they hurt him, the stronger Sanju came out of the crisis," Viswanath told Malayali news outlet Media One.

Sanju samson father accused Dhoni,Rohit and Kohli for not picking his son in the team when he was averaging 28 in list A,35 in FC, and 27 in ipl until 2020

Sanju's PR wants to hide this video from youpic.twitter.com/sYaQKoU9gu

— (@shinzohattori5) November 12, 2024

Samson was part of India's T20 World Cup-winning squad earlier this year. However, he did not play a single game after failing to impress in the warm up matches.

He was then overlooked for the white-ball tour of Sri Lanka, which was new head coach Gautam Gambhir's first series in charge of the team after replacing Dravid post this year's T20 World Cup.

However, India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav and Gambhir have shown faith in Samson, who re-paid the trust by scoring back-to-back centuries against Bangladesh and South Africa, respectively.

Samson recently disclosed that Suryakumar communicated about him opening the batting in the next seven T20Is and gave his absolute backing irrespective of how the results would follow.

"While playing in the Duleep Trophy, Surya came to me and said, 'You have the next seven matches. You'll be opening in these seven matches, and I'll back you no matter what.' For the first time in my career, I received such clarity, which gave me confidence. The team management has been clear for the last few matches I'll be opening."

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Photos: Donald Trump's Cabinet - Who's Been Picked, Who's In The Running

Donald Trump has begun the process of choosing a cabinet and selecting other high-ranking administration officials following his presidential election victory.

Here are the early picks and top contenders for some of the key posts overseeing defense, intelligence, diplomacy, trade, immigration and economic policymaking. Some are in contention for a range of posts.

SUSIE WILES, Chief Of Staff

Trump announced last week that Wiles, one of his two campaign managers, will be his White House chief of staff.

While the specifics of her political views are somewhat unclear, Wiles, 67, is credited with running a successful and efficient campaign. Supporters hope she will instill a sense of order and discipline that was often lacking during Trump's first four-year term, when he cycled through a number of chiefs of staff.

TOM HOMAN, 'Border Czar'

Trump announced on Sunday night that Homan, the acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement during Trump's first administration, will be in charge of the country's borders.

Trump made cracking down on people in the country illegally a central element of his campaign, promising mass deportations.

Homan, 62, said on Monday he would prioritize deporting immigrants in the U.S. illegally who posed safety and security threats as well as those working at job sites.

Trump, in a post on his Truth Social platform, said Homan will be "in charge of our nation's borders ('The Border Czar'), including, but not limited to, the Southern Border, the Northern Border, all Maritime, and Aviation Security," including the deportation of immigrants in the U.S. illegally.

ELISE STEFANIK, UN Ambassador

Trump announced on Monday that Stefanik, a Republican congresswoman and staunch Trump supporter, would be his ambassador to the United Nations.

Stefanik, 40, a U.S. representative from New York state and House Republican conference chair, took a leadership position in the House of Representatives in 2021 when she was elected to replace then-Representative Liz Cheney, who was ousted for criticizing Trump's false claims of election fraud.

"I am honored to nominate Chairwoman Elise Stefanik to serve in my Cabinet as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations," Trump said in a statement. "Elise is an incredibly strong, tough, and smart America First fighter."

Stefanik will arrive at the U.N. after bold promises by Trump to end the Russia-Ukraine war and Israel's war in Gaza.

LEE ZELDIN, EPA Administrator

Trump announced on Monday he had appointed former congressman Lee Zeldin of New York state as administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, and Zeldin said he had accepted the role.

Zeldin, 44, a staunch Trump ally, served in Congress from 2015 to 2023. In 2022, he lost the New York governor's race to Democratic incumbent Kathy Hochul.

Trump has promised to overhaul U.S. energy policy, with the aim of maximizing the country's already record-high oil and gas production by rolling back regulations and speeding up permitting.

As head of the EPA, Zeldin will play a key role in implementing those policies.

MARCO RUBIO, Secretary Of State

Trump is expected to tap U.S. Senator Marco Rubio to be his secretary of state, sources said on Monday, putting the Florida-born politician on track to be the first Latino to serve as the United States' top diplomat.

Rubio, 53, was arguably the most hawkish option on Trump's shortlist for secretary of state. The senator has in past years advocated for a muscular foreign policy with respect to U.S. geopolitical foes, including China, Iran and Cuba.

Over the last several years he has softened some of his stances to align more closely with Trump's views. The president-elect accuses past U.S. presidents of leading the U.S. into costly and futile wars and has pushed for a more restrained foreign policy.

MIKE WALTZ, National Security Adviser

Trump on Tuesday said he had picked for national security adviser Republican U.S. Representative Mike Waltz, a retired Army Green Beret who has been a leading critic of China.

Waltz, a 50-year-old Trump loyalist who also served in the National Guard as a colonel, has criticized Chinese activity in the Asia-Pacific and has voiced the need for the U.S. to be ready for a potential conflict in the region.

The national security adviser is a powerful role, which does not require Senate confirmation. Waltz will be responsible for briefing Trump on key national security issues and coordinating with different agencies.

While slamming the Biden administration for a disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, Waltz has publicly praised Trump's foreign policy views.

KRISTI NOEM, Homeland Security Secretary

Trump has chosen South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem to serve as the next homeland security secretary, two sources familiar with the decision said on Tuesday.

Noem, 52, once seen as a possible running mate for Trump, is currently serving her second four-year term as South Dakota's governor. She rose to national prominence after refusing to impose a statewide mask mandate during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Department of Homeland Security is responsible for everything from border protection and immigration to disaster response and the U.S. Secret Service.

Trump's campaign and Noem's office did not immediately respond to requests for comments.

SCOTT BESSENT, Potential Treasury Secretary

Bessent, a key economic adviser to Trump, is widely seen as a top candidate for treasury secretary. A longtime hedge fund investor who taught at Yale University for several years, Bessent has a warm relationship with the president-elect.

While Bessent has long favored the laissez-faire policies that were popular in the pre-Trump Republican Party, he has also spoken highly of Trump's use of tariffs as a negotiating tool. He has praised the president-elect's economic philosophy, which rests on a skepticism of both regulations and international trade.

ROBERT LIGHTHIZER, Potential Treasury Secretary

A loyalist who served as Trump's U.S. trade representative for essentially the then-president's entire term, Lighthizer will almost certainly be invited back. Though Bessent likely has a better shot at becoming treasury secretary, Lighthizer has an outside chance, and he might be able to reprise his old role if he's interested.

Like Trump, Lighthizer, 77,  is a trade skeptic and a firm believer in tariffs. He was one of the leading figures in Trump's trade war with China and the renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement, or NAFTA, with Mexico and Canada during Trump's first term.

HOWARD LUTNICK, Potential Treasury Secretary

The co-chair of Trump's transition effort and the longtime chief executive of financial services firm Cantor Fitzgerald, Lutnick is in the running for treasury secretary.

A bombastic New Yorker like Trump, Lutnick, 63, has uniformly praised the president-elect's economic policies, including his use of tariffs.

He has at times given elaborate, unvarnished opinions about what policies will be enacted in Trump's second term. Some Trump allies had privately complained that he too often presented himself as speaking on behalf of the campaign.

LINDA McMAHON, Potential Commerce Secretary

Professional wrestling magnate and former Small Business Administration director Linda McMahon is seen as the frontrunner to lead Trump's Department of Commerce, three sources briefed on the plans said.

McMahon, 76, is a major donor and was an early supporter of the Republican president-elect when he first ran for the White House almost a decade ago. This time, Trump tapped her to co-lead a transition team formed to help vet personnel and draft policy ahead of the Nov. 5 election.

McMahon is the co-founder and former CEO of the professional wrestling franchise WWE. She later served as director of the Small Business Administration, resigning in 2019, and went on to lead a pro-Trump political action committee that supported his 2020 reelection bid.

JOHN RATCLIFFE, Potential CIA Director

A former congressman and prosecutor who served as director of national intelligence during Trump's last year in office, Ratcliffe, 59, is seen as a leading contender to be director of the CIA, according to two people familiar with the transition process. Ratcliffe is also a potential attorney general pick.

The president-elect's allies view Ratcliffe as a hardcore Trump loyalist who could likely win Senate confirmation. Still, during his time as director of national intelligence, Ratcliffe often contradicted the assessments of career civil servants, drawing criticism from Democrats who said he politicized the role.

MIKE LEE, Potential Attorney General

A U.S. senator from Utah, Lee is widely seen as another top candidate for attorney general. Though the former prosecutor declined to vote for Trump during the 2016 election, he later became an unwavering ally, and he has become something of an intellectual hero among some factions of Trumpworld.

Lee, 53, was a key figure in attempts by Trump and his allies to overturn his 2020 election loss to Democrat Joe Biden, and has spread unfounded conspiracy theories about the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol.

KASH PATEL, Potential Candidate For National Security Posts

A former Republican House staffer who served in various high-ranking staff roles in the defense and intelligence communities during Trump's first term, Patel frequently appeared on the campaign trail to rally support for the candidate.

Some Trump allies would like to see Patel, considered the ultimate Trump loyalist, appointed CIA director. Any position requiring Senate confirmation may be a challenge, however.

Patel, 44, has leaned into controversy throughout his career. In an interview with Trump ally Steve Bannon last year, he promised to "come after" politicians and journalists perceived to be enemies of Trump.

During Trump's first term, Patel drew animosity from some more experienced national security officials, who saw him as volatile and too eager to please the then-president.
 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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"Combining Indian Hospitality With Swiss Quality": CEO On New Noida Airport

The National Capital Region is set to get its second major airport in April next year and with the first trial flights scheduled a few days from now at the Noida International Airport - also known as the Jewar airport - NDTV has got an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the frenetic construction activity at the project site as well as details of its design, connectivity and projected passenger numbers. 

NDTV also spoke exclusively to Noida International Airport CEO Christoph Schnellmann, who said their aim is to provide a passenger experience that combines Indian warmth and hospitality with Swiss quality and efficiency. 

The airport is being developed by the Yamuna International Airport Private Limited, a subsidiary of Swiss firm Zurich Airport International AG, in association with the Noida International Airport Limited, which is the implementing agency on behalf of the Uttar Pradesh government. 

Located in Jewar in Western UP's Gautam Buddha Nagar district, the airport is scheduled to see its first trial flights taking off and touching down in a few days, which will be an important milestone not only in the airport's development schedule but also in the story of the growth of Indian aviation. The airport was necessary given that the Indian aviation market has seen a compounded annual growth rate of 8.9% in the decade between 2013 and 2023 and because the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi has reached its growth potential.

Design Influences

Mr Schnellmann said design has been a key focus for the company since the project began around five years ago. Local materials have been used and one of the standout design choices is the flight of steps at the terminal's forecourt, which will resemble the ghats of Varanasi and Haridwar. Reflecting a focus on a climate change-friendly approach, the airport will also use natural lighting and ventilation to reduce its environmental footprint and energy costs.

"We are incredibly excited about the experience we are going to be able to offer our passengers. We talk about combining Indian warmth and hospitality with Swiss quality and efficiency. I think we have been very deliberate about designing the terminal (by) picking up elements of the rich architectural heritage of the region... An airport that is very much at home in north India, in Western UP. The commercial space will feature a large open-air courtyard reminiscent of some of the 'havelis' (traditional houses) found in the region," the CEO said. 

The airport has also been planned as a gateway to tourist destinations in North India, including the Taj Mahal, and for Hindu pilgrimages like the Chardham Yatra, Kumbh Mela, Mathura and Vrindavan as well as the Buddhist circuit of Sravasti, Kapilavastu and Kushinagar.

Number-Crunching

The total area of the project is 1,334 hectares and, in its first phase, 1.2 crore passengers are expected to use the airport every year. The number is projected to increase to 3 crore by the end of the decade and 7 crore a few years after that. 

One runway will be operational initially and, when it opens, the terminal will have 10 aerobridges and three bus gates. There will eventually be two operational runways and while the airport will have 28 spots for aircraft in the apron area initially, this will expand to 200 as the flights and passenger count increase. 

Mr Schnellmann said that the terminal is being built keeping this expansion in mind. 

"The pier can expand to the west to provide further passenger capacity. The building has also been designed in such a manner that it can be mirrored to the east," he said. 

Road, Rail Links

The airport is connected to Greater Noida, Noida and Delhi via the signal-free Yamuna Expressway. Leaving from Saket at 11 am on Tuesday, it took about an hour and 45 minutes to reach the airport by road. Once an interchange is built from the airport to the expressway, it will take approximately 45 minutes from Noida and 25 minutes from Greater Noida, according to Mr Schnellmann.

The CEO said the UP government is also planning a rail link directly to the airport, construction on which will begin in a year or so.

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These Countries Offer 'Assisted Dying' Or Are Considering It. How It's Done

1. SWITZERLAND - Switzerland legalised assisted dying in 1942 on the condition the motive is not selfish, making it the first country in the world to permit the practice. Doctors can prescribe drugs and administer them or had them over for self-administration. A number of Swiss organisations such as Dignitas offer their services to foreign nationals.
2. UNITED STATES - Medical aid in dying, also known as physician assisted dying is legal in 10 states: California, Colorado, Hawaii, Montana, Maine, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Vermont and Washington, plus the District of Columbia. Oregon was the first state to legalise it under a law which came into effect in 1997. It allows mentally competent patients who are terminally ill and with less than six months to live to ask for life-ending medication. People from outside Oregon may travel to the state to take advantage of the law.
3. NETHERLANDS - The "Termination of Life on Request and Assisted Suicide (Review Procedures) Act" came into effect in 2002. A doctor is immune from punishment for euthanasia and assisted suicide where patients are experiencing "unbearable suffering with no prospect of improvement". Minors can request euthanasia from the age of 12 but require parental permission before the age of 16.
4. BELGIUM - Belgium legalised medically assisted dying in 2002 for the terminally ill and for people experiencing unbearable suffering, which includes patients with psychiatric conditions. Since 2014, those under the age of 18 who are terminally ill are covered by the law as long as they have parental permission.
5. CANADA - Canada introduced "Medical Assistance in Dying" in 2016 for those whose death was deemed to be "reasonably foreseeable". Five years later, the law was extended to permit people with a "grievous and irremediable" medical condition to request assisted dying. The country has delayed until 2027 a plan to extend medical assistance in dying to include those with a mental illness.
6. AUSTRALIA - Voluntary assisted dying for the terminally ill or those with a condition that is causing intolerable suffering is legal in most Australian states, after being introduced first in Victoria in 2019. Doctors can prescribe medication for self-administration or administer them where required.
7. SPAIN - Spain approved a law in 2021 which allows euthanasia and medically assisted suicide for people with incurable or debilitating diseases who want to end their life.
8. GERMANY - Assisted dying had been legal in Germany until 2015 when the country outlawed its provision on an organised or commercial basis, effectively banning it in many cases. Five years later the country's top court ruled in favour of groups providing terminally ill adults with assisted suicide services, but lawmakers are yet to finalise new rules.
9. FRANCE - Doctors in France have since 2016 been allowed to put a person who is close to death and in great pain into deep sedation, but not to administer life-ending medication. President Emmanuel Macron earlier this year backed new legislation which would allow assisted dying for those with incurable conditions and a bill was introduced in April, but elections in June and July interrupted the proposed law's progress.
10. BRITAIN - A bill to allow terminally ill adults with six months or less left to live the right to end their lives was introduced to parliament earlier in October and will be debated on Nov. 29.
11. IRELAND - A cross-party Irish parliamentary committee recommended this year that the government should legalise assisted dying in certain restricted circumstances. A majority of lawmakers in October voted in favour of "noting" the committee's findings. With a national election due on Nov. 29, it will be up to the next government to decide whether to consider proposing a new law.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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COP29: What Is A Carbon Credit? What Is Article 6? Top Questions Answered

Countries at the United Nations COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan will attempt to agree rules for a global system for trading carbon offset credits.

Here's what you should know:

WHAT ARE CARBON OFFSETS?

Some governments and companies may struggle to reduce their planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions to meet their climate targets. Supporters of carbon offsets see them as a key means to help meet these goals.

These offsets allow one nation or company to offset some of their emissions by paying for actions to cut emissions elsewhere. These actions might include rural solar panel installations or converting a fleet of petrol buses to electric.

WHAT IS ARTICLE 6?

Article 6 of the Paris Agreement helps countries work together to reduce their carbon emissions. It sets out two options for countries and companies to trade offsets, helping them meet the goals they set to reduce planetary-warming gases in their climate action plans, known as nationally determined contributions (NDCs).

One allows two countries to set their own terms for a bilateral carbon trading agreement, this is known as Article 6.2. The second aims to create a central, UN-managed system for countries and companies to begin offsetting their carbon emissions and trading those offsets, known as Article 6.4.

Article 6 is seen an important mechanism for delivering climate finance to developing countries, and a Paris Agreement carbon market, if launched, could continue operating even if the United States under Donald Trump withdraws support for the Paris Agreement.

WHAT'S BEEN DECIDED SO FAR?

At the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow, negotiators reached a breakthrough agreement that established a broad rulebook to regulate trading of carbon credits.

But after two weeks of talks at COP28 in Dubai, countries failed to seal a deal on necessary details to operationalise a central carbon trading system or to clarify rules for nations wanting to make bilateral arrangements.

Some countries like Japan and Indonesia have decided to press ahead with bilateral agreements without those clarifications and are already preparing to trade carbon credits, known as "internationally transferable mitigation outcomes" (ITMOs). The UN says 91 agreements had been made between 56 countries as of October this year. Thailand and Switzerland completed the first sale in January, and the market for bilateral trade agreements is still quite small.

Some buyers are worried there are not adequate rules to stop countries changing the terms of the agreements, or revoking them, and that there is not a robust system to ensure that credits bought and sold are not being counted by both the buying and selling countries.

WHAT WILL BE DECIDED AT COP29?

Officials are keen to secure an early "win" on Article 6 at this year's climate conference.

Market watchers are hopeful an agreement can be reached to set guardrails for the bilateral agreements and to operationalise the UN-backed centralised marketplace.

Guardrails include checks and balances to provide assurance countries are buying and selling actual emissions reductions. Some countries for example want methods nations use to generate credits to be checked internationally.

Countries will also negotiate whether the UN's central registry can itself house credits that can be transacted and retired or whether it should operate just for accounting purposes.

An expert group elected under United Nations rules has already hammered out a framework for the multilateral trading system to ensure credits meet basic quality standards. But countries at COP29 can decide to either sign off on this standard, open up further discussions, or reject it.

After COP29, the technical expert group will meet again to agree which methodologies for generating carbon credits through cookstoves projects or reforestation for example can issue credits into the new Paris Aligned system.

If the key points are resolved this year, the system could launch as soon as 2025.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR THE VOLUNTARY CARBON MARKET?

Some companies that are under no legal obligation to cut their emissions have set voluntary targets, which they can meet partially through buying credits on a voluntary carbon market. In 2022, the voluntary market was valued at about $2 billion worldwide. But the market value plummeted to $723 million last year after being shaken by repeated scandals.

Linking up carbon projects currently in the voluntary market with the Paris Agreement system could boost confidence.

Developers of projects like mangrove restoration to regenerative agriculture can apply to have their credits sold under the UN system, meaning that if approved, they could sell in either that system or on the voluntary market. Experts expect UN-approved credits to carry a higher price tag.
 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Who Has Gotten What In Trump's 2nd Term, And Who's In The Running For One

Donald Trump has begun the process of choosing a cabinet and selecting other high-ranking administration officials following his presidential election victory.

Here are the early picks and top contenders for some of the key posts overseeing defence, intelligence, diplomacy, trade, immigration and economic policymaking. Some are in contention for a range of posts.

SUSIE WILES, chief of staff

Trump on Thursday announced that Wiles, one of his two campaign managers, will be his White House chief of staff.

While the specifics of her political views are somewhat unclear, Wiles, 67, is credited with running a successful and efficient campaign. Supporters hope she will instil a sense of order and discipline that was often lacking during Trump's first four-year term when he cycled through a number of chiefs of staff.

TOM HOMAN, 'border czar'

Trump announced on Sunday night that Homan, the former acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement from his first administration, will be in charge of the country's borders.

Trump made cracking down on people in the country illegally a central element of his campaign, promising mass deportations.

Homan said on Monday he would prioritize deporting immigrants in the U.S. illegally who posed safety and security threats as well as those working at job sites.

Trump, in a post on his Truth Social platform, said Homan will be "in charge of our nation's borders ("The Border Czar"), including, but not limited to, the Southern Border, the Northern Border, all Maritime, and Aviation Security," including the deportation of immigrants in the U.S. illegally.

ELISE STEFANIK, U.N. ambassador

Trump announced on Monday that Stefanik, a Republican congresswoman and staunch Trump supporter, would be his ambassador to the United Nations.

Stefanik, 40, a U.S. representative from New York state and House Republican conference chair, took a leadership position in the House of Representatives in 2021 when she was elected to replace then-Representative Liz Cheney, who was ousted for criticizing Trump's false claims of election fraud.

"I am honored to nominate Chairwoman Elise Stefanik to serve in my Cabinet as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations," Trump said in a statement. "Elise is an incredibly strong, tough, and smart America First fighter."

Stefanik will arrive at the U.N. after bold promises by Trump to end the Russia-Ukraine war and Israel's war in Gaza.

SCOTT BESSENT, potential treasury secretary

Bessent, a key economic adviser to Trump, is widely seen as a top candidate for treasury secretary. A longtime hedge fund investor who taught at Yale University for several years, Bessent has a warm relationship with the president-elect.

While Bessent has long favored the laissez-faire policies that were popular in the pre-Trump Republican Party, he has also spoken highly of Trump's use of tariffs as a negotiating tool. He has praised the president-elect's economic philosophy, which rests on a skepticism of both regulations and international trade.

JOHN PAULSON, potential treasury secretary

Paulson, a billionaire hedge fund manager and major Trump donor, is another top contender for treasury secretary. The longtime financier has told associates he would be interested in the job.

A longtime proponent of tax cuts and deregulation, Paulson's profile is broadly similar to that of other potential members of Trump's economic team. He has publicly supported targeted tariffs as a tool to ensure U.S. national security and combat unfair trade practices abroad.

One high-profile fundraiser hosted by Paulson in April raked in over $50 million for the former president.

LARRY KUDLOW, potential treasury secretary

Fox Business Network personality Larry Kudlow, who served as director of the National Economic Council for much of Trump's first term, has an outside shot at becoming his treasury secretary and would likely have an opportunity to take a separate economics-focused position if he is interested.

While he is privately skeptical of broad tariffs, there is publicly little daylight between the policies Kudlow advocates and those of the president-elect.

ROBERT LIGHTHIZER, potential treasury secretary

A loyalist who served as Trump's U.S. trade representative for essentially the then-president's entire term, Lighthizer will almost certainly be invited back. Though Bessent and Paulson likely have a better shot at becoming treasury secretary, Lighthizer has an outside chance, and he might be able to reprise his old role if he's interested.

Like Trump, Lighthizer is a trade skeptic and a firm believer in tariffs. He was one of the leading figures in Trump's trade war with China and the renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement, or NAFTA, with Mexico and Canada during Trump's first term.

HOWARD LUTNICK, potential treasury secretary

The co-chair of Trump's transition effort and the longtime chief executive of financial services firm Cantor Fitzgerald, Lutnick is in the running for treasury secretary.

A bombastic New Yorker like Trump, Lutnick has uniformly praised the president-elect's economic policies, including his use of tariffs.

He has at times given elaborate, unvarnished opinions about what policies will be enacted in Trump's second term. Some Trump allies had privately complained that he too often presented himself as speaking on behalf of the campaign.

LINDA McMAHON, potential commerce secretary

Professional wrestling magnate and former Small Business Administration director Linda McMahon is seen as the frontrunner to lead Trump's Department of Commerce, three sources briefed on the plans said.

McMahon is a major donor and was an early supporter of the Republican president-elect when he first ran for the White House almost a decade ago. This time, Trump tapped her to co-lead a transition team formed to help vet personnel and draft policy ahead of the Nov. 5 election.

McMahon is the co-founder and former CEO of the professional wrestling franchise WWE. She later served as director of the Small Business Administration, resigning in 2019, and went on to lead a pro-Trump political action committee that supported his 2020 reelection bid.

RICHARD GRENELL, potential secretary of state 

Grenell is among Trump's closest foreign policy advisers. During the president-elect's first four-year term, he served as acting director of national intelligence and U.S. ambassador to Germany. When Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in September, Grenell sat in on the private meeting.

Grenell's private dealings with foreign leaders and often-caustic personality have made him the center of multiple controversies, though significant Republican gains in the Senate mean he could likely be confirmed. He is also considered a top contender for national security adviser, which does not require Senate confirmation.

Among the policies he has advocated for is setting up an autonomous zone in eastern Ukraine to end the war there, a position Kyiv considers unacceptable.

ROBERT O'BRIEN, potential secretary of state

O'Brien, Trump's fourth and final national security adviser during his first term, maintains a close relationship with Trump, and the two often speak on national security matters.

He is likely in the running for secretary of state or other top foreign policy and national security posts. He has maintained close contacts with foreign leaders since Trump left office, having met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel in May.

His views are somewhat more hawkish than some of Trump's advisers. He has, for instance, been more supportive of military aid for Ukraine than many of his Republican contemporaries, and he is a proponent of banning TikTok in the United States.

BILL HAGERTY, potential secretary of state

A U.S. senator from Tennessee who worked on Trump's 2016 transition effort, Hagerty is considered a top contender for secretary of state. He has maintained solid relations with essentially all factions of the Republican Party, and could likely be confirmed with ease in the Senate.

He served as U.S. ambassador to Japan in the first Trump administration at a time when the president touted his warm relationship with then-Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

Hagerty's policies are broadly in line with Trump's. Earlier in the year, he voted against a major military aid package for Ukraine.

MARCO RUBIO, potential secretary of state

Rubio, a U.S. senator from Florida and 2016 Republican presidential candidate, is also a top secretary of state contender whose policies hew closely to those of Trump. Like Hagerty, he was a contender to be Trump's 2024 running mate.

Rubio has long been involved in foreign affairs in the Senate, particularly as it relates to Latin America, and he has solid relationships throughout the party.

MIKE WALTZ, potential defense secretary

A former Army Green Beret who is currently a U.S. congressman from Florida, Waltz has established himself as one of the foremost China hawks in the House.

Among the various China-related bills he has co-sponsored are measures designed to lessen U.S. reliance on critical minerals mined in China.

Waltz is on speaking terms with Trump and is widely considered to be a serious contender for secretary of defense.

KEITH KELLOGG, potential candidate for national security adviser

A retired lieutenant general who served as chief of staff to the National Security Council under Trump, Kellogg has Trump's ear and is a contender for national security adviser, among other national security posts.

During the campaign, he presented Trump with a plan to end the war in Ukraine, which involved forcing both parties to the negotiating table and ruling out NATO membership for Ukraine for the foreseeable future, among other measures.

MARK GREEN, potential homeland security secretary

A former Army flight surgeon and the current chair of the House Homeland Security Committee, Green is considered by some Trump allies in Washington as a contender for the top job at the Department of Homeland Security . His supporters describe him as a Trump loyalist and immigration hardliner who also has significant legislative experience.

Green was nominated by Trump during his first term to serve as secretary of the Army, but he withdrew his name as past statements, which were widely seen as transphobic and Islamophobic, drew more scrutiny. 

JOHN RATCLIFFE, potential attorney general

A former congressman and prosecutor who served as director of national intelligence during Trump's last year in office, Ratcliffe is seen as a potential attorney general, though he could also take a separate national security or intelligence position, such as CIA director.

The president-elect's allies view Ratcliffe as a hardcore Trump loyalist who could likely win Senate confirmation. Still, during his time as director of national intelligence, Ratcliffe often contradicted the assessments of career civil servants, drawing criticism from Democrats who said he politicized the role.

MIKE LEE, potential attorney general

A U.S. senator from Utah, Lee is widely seen as another top candidate for attorney general. Though the former prosecutor declined to vote for Trump during the 2016 election, he later became an unwavering ally, and he has become something of an intellectual hero among some factions of Trumpworld.

Lee was a key figure in attempts by Trump and his allies to overturn his 2020 election loss to Democrat Joe Biden and has spread unfounded conspiracy theories about the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol.

KASH PATEL, potential candidate for national security posts

A former Republican House staffer who served in various high-ranking staff roles in the defence and intelligence communities during Trump's first term, Patel frequently appeared on the campaign trail to rally support for the candidate.

Some Trump allies would like to see Patel, considered the ultimate Trump loyalist, appointed CIA director. Any position requiring Senate confirmation may be a challenge, however. 

Patel has leaned into controversy throughout his career. In an interview with Trump ally Steve Bannon last year, he promised to "come after" politicians and journalists perceived to be enemies of Trump.

During Trump's first term, Patel drew animosity from some more experienced national security officials, who saw him as volatile and too eager to please the then-president.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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