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New Delhi, May 17 (IANS) The Indian biotech companies are actively developing mRNA-based vaccines and therapeutics, said a team of scientists at the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), under the Ministry of Science and Technology.They were speaking at the 14th Webinar under the ‘Webinar Series on Biofoundry and Biomanufacturing Initiative’, along with Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC).The session focused on “Biomanufacturing for mRNA Therapeutics”, a vital component under the BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) Policy.“The BioE3 Policy’s vision is to foster high-performance biomanufacturing by supporting sustainable green growth. This approach marks a global shift toward sustainability, fuelling a ‘BioRevolution’ with the potential to reshape economies and societies,” said Dr. Alka Sharma, Senior Adviser/Sc ‘H’, DBT.She also informed that the 14th Webinar in this series focuses on mRNA therapeutics, a key thematic subsector under the policy.“Several Indian biotech companies and research institutions are actively involved in developing mRNA-based vaccines and therapeutics,” Sharma said, while also highlighting certain challenges plaguing the sector such as product delivery, product stability, and import dependence for raw materials.Approved by the Union Cabinet and released by the Minister of Science and Technology, the BioE3 Policy aims to position India as a global leader in bio-based innovations.It focuses on promoting sustainable biomanufacturing in diverse thematic areas including Precision Therapeutics such as mRNA therapeutics, supporting economic growth while promoting affordable healthcare accessible to the Indian population.Dr. Varshneya Singh, Scientist ‘D’, DBT, provided an insightful overview of the mRNA therapeutics subsector.“mRNA-based therapies represent a groundbreaking advancement in biotechnology, with the potential to tackle a broad spectrum of diseases, including cancer, genetic conditions, and infectious diseases,” Singh said.He provided a SWOT analysis of the subsector, identifying its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.Dr. Raghavan Varadarajan, IISc Bangalore explored cutting-edge advances in mRNA-LNP vaccine technology, emphasising its revolutionary role in modern medicine.He talked about the mRNA vaccine design workflow; major advantages of mRNA vaccine modality; key structural elements of mRNA; workflow for LNP preparation, comparative analysis of different mRNA-LNP formulations, different kinds of microfluidic chips used, and comparison of different formulation methods.The Webinar served as a collaborative forum, bringing together academia, industry experts, start-ups, and researchers to explore the latest developments and emerging opportunities in the field of mRNA therapeutics biomanufacturing.–IANSrvt/

New Delhi, May 17 (IANS) In a strong diplomatic counteroffensive following the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22, India has decided to dispatch multiple delegations of Members of Parliament (MPs) from across the political spectrum to key countries around the world. The objective is to expose Pakistan’s alleged involvement in the attack and to underline India’s firm stance against terrorism.Each of the seven delegations will consist of MPs from different parties, prominent political figures, and senior diplomats.MPs expected to lead the delegations include Congress’ Shashi Tharoor, BJP’s Ravi Shankar Prasad and Baijayant Panda, JD(U)’s Sanjay Kumar Jha, DMK’s Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, NCP (SP)’s Supriya Sule, and Shiv Sena’s Shrikant Eknath Shinde.According to the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, these All-Party Delegations will be visiting important partner nations, including members of the United Nations Security Council, later this month.”In the context of ‘Operation Sindoor’ and India’s continued fight against cross-border terrorism, seven All-Party Delegations are set to visit key partner countries, including members of the UN Security Council later this month,” the ministry said in a statement.”The All-Party Delegations will project India’s national consensus and resolute approach to combating terrorism in all forms and manifestations. They would carry forth to the world the country’s strong message of zero-tolerance against terrorism,” it added.Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, posting on X, wrote, “In moments that matter most, Bharat stands united. Seven All-Party Delegations will soon visit key partner nations, carrying our shared message of zero tolerance to terrorism. A powerful reflection of national unity above politics, beyond differences.”The countries where the delegations will be dispatched include the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, South Africa, Egypt, the United States, and Japan.The delegations aim to communicate India’s unified political stance against terrorism and seek international support to hold Pakistan accountable.Other MPs expected to participate include BJP leaders Anurag Thakur, Rajiv Pratap Rudy, and Tejasvi Surya, TDP’s Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu, Congress MP Manish Tewari, and AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi.Sources indicate that the decision to send these cross-party delegations is a response to Pakistan’s increased attempts to internationalise the Kashmir issue, as well as to recent comments by US President Donald Trump.New Delhi continues to maintain that Kashmir remains a bilateral matter.This marks the first time that the Modi government has mobilised elected representatives from multiple political parties as diplomatic emissaries to challenge Pakistan’s narrative on the global stage.The focus of the delegations will be two-fold: To brief foreign governments about the Pahalgam terror attack and to clarify that ‘Operation Sindoor’ targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan-occupied territories, without endangering civilian lives.–IANSint/sd/rad

Mumbai, May 17 (IANS) Chunky Panday on Saturday remembered his late mother Snehlata on the occasion of her birth anniversary.
The actor took to Instagram, where he shared some old pictures featuring him and his late mother. Chunky mentioned that he celebrates her everyday.Taking to the caption section, the father of actress Ananya Panday wrote: “Happy Birthday Mom. We celebrate you everyday.”It was in 2021, when Chunky’s mother, Snehlata Panday, passed away. The actor’s father was a heart surgeon and his mother reportedly was a gynaecologist who opened a beauty parlour and a clinic for slimming during the 1980s.The veteran actor was last seen in Vijay 69 is a drama film directed by Akshay Roy starring Anupam Kher. The film was about a 69-year-old former swimming coach, who is on a mission to retain his youth and fulfil his dreams. He takes the plunge to complete a challenging triathlon.Chunky will next be seen in “Housefull 5”, a murder mystery with a comic spin.Directed by Tarun Mansukhani, the film promises to deliver even more laughter, chaos, and family-friendly fun with a star-studded ensemble cast.The film features some of Bollywood’s biggest names such as Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, Riteish Deshmukh, Jacqueline Fernandez, and Sonam Bajwa are just a few of the stars who are set to light up the screen.Also joining the cast are Nargis Fakhri, Sanjay Dutt, Jackie Shroff, Nana Patekar, Chitrangada Singh, Fardeen Khan, Chunky Pandey, Johnny Lever, Shreyas Talpade, Dino Morea, Ranjeet, Soundarya Sharma, Nikitin Dheer, and Akashdeep Sabir.This time, the plot takes an intriguing turn, with a killer on the loose and a web of suspense surrounding the mystery. The film will take an unexpected turn with the introduction of a killer, adding a thrilling twist to the storyline.Helmed by Tarun Mansukhani, “Housefull 5” marks the reunion of Abhishek, Akshay , and Riteish , who last appeared together in “Housefull 3.” While Akshay and Riteish have been part of the franchise from the start, Abhishek added his comedic charm to the third film.Produced by Sajid Nadiadwala under the banner Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, “Housefull 5” is set to hit theaters worldwide on June 6.–IANSdc/

Srinagar, May 17 (IANS) The State Investigation Agency (SIA) on Saturday started multiple, simultaneous raids at several locations in the Kashmir Valley in connection with terror-related activities.Official sources said that the SIA sleuths, assisted by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), conducted simultaneous raids at 11 locations in Srinagar, Ganderbal, Handwara, Sopore and Baramulla.”These raids are part of the investigating agency’s continuing effort against terrorists, their over-ground workers (OGWs) and sympathisers,” the sources said.So far, no arrests have been made, and a detailed statement will be issued after the conclusion of the raids, the sources added.On May 11, the SIA raided 20 locations, including those in Anantnag, Pulwama, Kulgam and Shopian.These raids are part of the high-stakes investigation into a terror conspiracy case in which sleeper cells of the terrorist outfits were found to be in contact with their handlers across the border.”The accused against whom raids are in progress today are known to have shared sensitive information about security forces and critical infrastructure using encrypted platforms like Telegram, WhatsApp and Signal,” the sources said.These raids are being carried out in the presence of executive magistrates and are part of an ongoing effort to dismantle terror networks active in the region.Officials suspect that the individuals targeted were in close contact with terrorists based in Pakistan, supporting their operations in the Valley.The operation is continuing, with security forces thoroughly searching for evidence and suspects.Authorities have stressed that such firm measures are essential to uproot terrorism and restore peace in Jammu and Kashmir.The SIA has investigated some high-profile terror attacks, like the murder of advocate Babar Qadri in 2020.The SIA investigated the case, arrested the former bar association president, Mian Qayoom and presented a charge sheet against him and others, including Shahid Shafi Mir of Kolipora in Khanyar, Zahid Farooq Khan of Shampora in Nowhatta, Mohammad Asif Bhat of Jogiwan in Amdakadal, Lal Bazar, Munir Aziz War alias Qari Munir of Hatmullah in Kupwara and Towseef Ahmad Shah of Parimpora.–IANSsq/svn

Mumbai, May 17 (IANS) Musician Palash Sen reminisced about working in Hindi feature films and heaped praise on his “fabulous” leading ladies Sushmita Sen, Rituparna Sengupta, Ira Dubey, and Samreen Zaidi, who made him look good.
Taking to Instagram stories, Palash shared stills from the films alongside the actresses.“So, I have also featured in Hindi feature films in my career. Things have just happened with me. I never had the ambition or the craze to be in films but God has plans for all of us. These photos depict my entire movie career. Four coming of age films that I am proud of and thankful to those who thought of me to be a Hindi film hero. And all these fabulous leading ladies who made me look good by their ethereal presence,” he wrote.He added: “1. Sushmita Sen .. FILHAAL .my first film heroine . Miss Universe . Talented beyond belief AND gorgeous. 2. Rituparna Sengupta : SHONDHE NAAMAAR AAGE. Dazzling. Graceful & an acting powerhouse. I was so starstruck (sic).”Palash said he also played a villain in “Sondhey Namaar Aagey,” a Bengali film directed by Ritobrata Bhattacharya.“3. Ira Dubey. AISA YEH JAHAAN. The most talented girl I have known. She is an acting text book. I found it tough to keep up. And those killer looks. 4. Samreen Zaidi. MUMBAI CUTTING ..Quiet. Gorgeous. Vanished suddenly. But made a fantastic lead with me.”The “Maeri” hitmaker said he is open to do more films.“Will I do more films? Why not !! Creativity has so many avenues. And I love to express myself in all forms,” wrote Palash.Palash formed the Indian pop rock band Euphoria in 1998. The band has released 16 singles by adopting the DIY method, and embracing the digital revolution in the music industry. They were inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2012 by the Indian Recording Arts Academy at the Palm Expo in Mumbai. Alongside jaunty pop rock songs, Euphoria have also been known to produce music with a satirical message.–IANSdc/

Chennai, May 17 (IANS) Actor Ajith Kumar, who will be racing on behalf of his team Ajith Kumar Racing at the Zandvoort Circuit in the Netherlands this week, will be driving solo while most other teams contesting against him will have two drivers per car!
The actor, who is now all set to compete in the Zandvoort round of the GT4 European series, will be taking on teams with two drivers each for a full 60 minutes on his own.Taking to its X timeline, Ajith Kumar Racing, the actor’s racing team said, “This weekend, we are at the Zandvoort Circuit in the Netherlands for the GT4 European series. Unlike most teams that run with two drivers per car, Ajith Kumar will be driving solo – taking on the full 60-minute races on his own. No co-driver. No swap. Just one man, one machine, and one mission.”It further said, “GT4 European Series; Round: Zandvoort, Netherlands; Two sprint races | 60 minutes each; Mandatory pit stops (without driver change). Expect behind-the-scenes updates, qualifying runs, race action, and moments from inside the paddock all weekend long.”Meanwhile, the actor in a recent interview opened up on the accidents during races and whether it scares himDrawing a parallel with his films, Ajith said that he did stunts in his films all by himself and that he has had to undergo a number of surgeries as a result of that. However, he never wants to give up doing action films.The same was the case with motorsport. The actor said that the similarity between motorsports and films was that they were both emotionally and physically demanding.The actor has also gone on to disclose that he would begin work on his next film in November this year and that the film would hit screens in summer next year.–IANSmkr/

St. John’s (Antigua), May 17 (IANS) Cricket West Indies (CWI) has named Roston Chase as West Indies Test captain for the upcoming home series against Australia in June, with Jomel Warrican named as vice-captain. The series will be the first of the 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle for both teams.”The appointments were unanimously approved by the CWI Board of Directors during its meeting held today, May 16, 2025,” CWI said in a statement.”This announcement follows the completion of a groundbreaking, robust and structured process to evaluate and recommend the next captain and vice-captain of the West Indies Test team.”Recognizing the critical role of leadership in shaping team culture, driving performance, and ensuring long-term success, CWI adopted a data-informed, multi-dimensional framework to guide the selection. This marks a significant evolution in how leadership appointments are made, aimed at strengthening accountability, transparency, and alignment with modern cricketing standards,” it added.The 33-year-old, who last played a Test match over two years ago, will replace Kraigg Brathwaite, who stepped down from the role in March this year.The process began with a shortlist of candidates selected based on factors including Test experience, leadership qualities, and captaincy credentials. The shortlisted players included: John Campbell, Tevin Imlach, Joshua Da Silva, Justin Greaves, Roston Chase, and Jomel Warrican, the CWI said.Chase has featured in 49 Test matches, amassing 2,265 runs at an average of 26.33, with five centuries to his name. With the ball, he has taken 85 wickets, including standout figures of 8 for 60 against England in Bridgetown in 2019.Shai Hope, the current ODI and T20I captain, respectfully declined consideration to focus on his existing leadership roles, the Caribbean board said.Head coach Daren Sammy also expressed his strong support for the new captain.“I fully endorse this appointment. Our new captain has earned the respect of his peers, understands the responsibility that comes with the role, and has shown the leadership qualities we need to take this team forward. I urge fans across the region to rally behind him – we’re building something special,” he said.–IANSab/

New Delhi, May 17 (IANS) The Digital Life Certificate Campaign has revolutionised pension disbursal, said Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology.Singh noted that the campaign roped in technology to make it easier for elderly to get their pensions. It also abolished several outdated rules that were hindering the process.“The Digital Life Certificate Campaign has revolutionised pension disbursal by enabling elderly pensioners to verify their identity using facial recognition technology, eliminating the need for physical visits to bank branches,” Singh said.“Significant strides have also been made in simplifying administrative processes, including the introduction of a single pension form, a unified fellowship application portal, and the abolition of over 1,600 outdated rules,” he added.Addressing the IAS trainees and civil servants at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA), Mussoorie, Singh also highlighted several groundbreaking reforms introduced to enhance transparency, accessibility, and efficiency in public service delivery.He said that to promote inclusivity, government recruitment exams are now conducted in 13 regional languages. The Union Minister also informed of plans to extend this to all 22 scheduled languages recognised by the Constitution.Ensuring a level playing field, interviews for certain Group B and C posts have been abolished, promoting merit-based selection.In addition, Rozgar Melas — large-scale employment fairs — have been launched to provide job opportunities and raise aspirations among the youth, Singh said.Further, Singh underscored the significance of the Swachhata Campaign, which not only optimised office space but also generated more than Rs 250 crore in revenue from the disposal of scrap materials.Highlighting initiatives for young officers, Singh spoke about the Assistant Secretaryship Programme, where IAS officers work in central ministries for two months.“During the Covid-19 pandemic, officers who had undergone this programme displayed greater confidence and adaptability,” he noted.The MoS also mentioned the Prime Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Public Administration, which now emphasise initiative and impact, rather than individual recognition. Over two dozen regional conferences have been conducted by the ministry across the country — from Leh to Kanyakumari, emphasising decentralised governance and participatory development.–IANSrvt/

Jaipur, May 17 (IANS) Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma will visit Bikaner on Saturday for the Tiranga yatra, organised by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to pay tribute to the Indian armed forces for successfully carrying out Operation Sindoor.
He is also scheduled to visit the famous Karni Mata Temple in Deshnok, where he will offer prayers.Besides, the Chief Minister will review the ongoing preparations for the proposed visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Bikaner on May 22.As per the itinerary, CM Sharma will depart from Jaipur Airport at 12.30 p.m. and arrive at Nal Airport in Bikaner at 1.10 p.m.He is scheduled to attend a local programme at Riddhi Siddhi Bhawan at 1.35 p.m, followed by another event in Palana village at 4.00 p.m. At 5.10 p.m., he will visit the Karni Mata Temple and later participate in the Tiranga Yatra.After concluding his engagements, the Chief Minister will depart from Deshnok at 6.30 p.m. and reach Nal Airport by 7.15 p.m., from where he will return to Jaipur. Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to visit Rajasthan for the first time since Operation Sindoor.The India-Pakistan border lies approximately 200 kilometres from Deshnok.Under Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army destroyed several terrorist hideouts across the border in Pakistan. This marks PM Modi’s first visit to the state after the operation and a period of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan.During his visit, Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate several railway stations across the country under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, including the one in Deshnok, via digital mode.He will also address the general public during the event. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Rajasthan Chief Minister Sharma will accompany him.On May 17, Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, along with other central and state ministers, will visit Bikaner to finalise the arrangements. The district administration started making preparations on Thursday after getting information from the Prime Minister’s Office on PM Modi’s visit.–IANSarc/svn

New Delhi, May 17 (IANS) After a brief spell of rainfall in several parts of Delhi-NCR , there was a marginal improvement in air quality and temperature on Saturday morning. However, the overall air quality in many areas still remains in the “poor” to “very poor” category.As per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at various locations early Saturday was still above the 200 mark.Anand Vihar reported an AQI of 222, while the area near Delhi Technological University (DTU) recorded 206. In Dwarka Sector 8, the AQI stood at 210, whereas ITO recorded a comparatively better level of 146. Around the India Gate, the AQI measured 177, an improvement from Friday’s reading of 250.Despite the temporary relief provided by the showers, Delhi has been grappling with deteriorating air quality over the past several days.In response to rising pollution levels, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented Stage 1 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR. These curbs come into effect when AQI levels fall in the 201–300 range, classified as “poor”.On Friday morning, Delhi’s average AQI had plunged into the “very poor” category at 305. Alarming spikes were noted in areas like Wazirpur and Mundka, where AQI readings soared to 422 and 419 respectively, levels that are classified as “severe.”Experts attribute the sudden decline in air quality to a combination of dust-laden winds and worsening pre-monsoon atmospheric conditions.According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), a significant cloud mass over the region triggered strong winds, reaching speeds of 30–40 km/h, particularly in the Palam area. These gusts lifted fine dust particles into the air, resulting in decreased visibility and deteriorated air quality across the capital.While light rain has helped marginally settle airborne particles, environmental experts stress that the current improvement is temporary. With pre-monsoon weather patterns continuing, authorities are urging citizens to take precautions and stay updated on real-time air quality data.–IANSrs/rad