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Mumbai, May 14 (IANS) NIIT Learning Systems Limited (NIIT MTS) has reported a 10.4 per cent year-on-year (YoY) decline in its consolidated net profit for the March quarter (Q4) of FY25.The company posted a net profit of Rs 48.7 crore for the quarter, down from Rs 54.4 crore in the same period last fiscal, according to a regulatory filing.Despite the fall in profit, NIIT MTS reported a 7.9 per cent increase in its revenue from operations, which stood at Rs 429.7 crore during the quarter.However, on a quarter-over-quarter (QoQ) basis, the company saw its profit shrink by 21 per cent, while revenue grew by just 2.6 per cent.Nevertheless, NIIT MTS CEO Sapnesh Lalla said the company witnessed steady growth in new customer acquisition and expanded its business with existing clients during the quarter.”In line with our AI first approach, we will continue to make disproportionate investments to strengthen our unique position as a strategic leader in Managed Learning Services,” he said.For the full financial year FY25, NIIT MTS managed to post a 6.7 per cent increase in net profit, which rose to Rs 227.5 crore. Revenue for the year also grew 6.4 per cent, reaching Rs 1,653.2 crore.Throughout the year, the company secured 10 new global Managed Training Services (MTS) contracts and expanded six existing ones.It also renewed nine contracts during the year and ended FY25 with 93 MTS customers. NIIT MTS reported revenue visibility of $390 million, up from $335 million last year.Vice Chairman and Managing Director Vijay K Thadani highlighted the company’s focus on artificial intelligence, noting that customers are increasingly adopting GenAI-based learning and development (L&D) solutions.He said NIIT MTS will continue to invest heavily in AI to maintain its leadership in Managed Learning Services.The company’s employee headcount stood at 2,410 as of the end of FY25. The board has recommended a final dividend of Rs 3 per equity share.Shares of NIIT Learning Systems closed 3.51 per cent higher at Rs 372.90 on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) on Wednesday.–IANSpk/uk

Raipur, May 14 (IANS) Lauding heroic efforts of security forces in eliminating 31 Maoists at Karregutta hills, Chhattisgarh, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said security forces have achieved a historic milestone in the fight against Maoism by eliminating notorious Maoists in the biggest operation to date.

HM Amit Shah reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating Maoism, assuring that India is on track to becoming Maoist-free by March 31, 2026. On his X handle, the Home Minister wrote that the encounter took place on Kurraguttalu Hill, located on the Chhattisgarh-Telangana border, which was previously a stronghold for major Naxal organisations, including PLGA Battalion 1, DKSZC, TSC, and CRC. The site was a hub for Naxal training, strategy formulation, and weapon development. Following the operation, the Indian tricolour now flies over the mountain that was once under the control of insurgents, he wrote. “I congratulate our CRPF, STF and DRG soldiers who faced the Naxalites with their bravery and courage even in bad weather and inaccessible mountainous areas. The whole country is proud of you. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, we are determined to root out Naxalism. I once again assure the countrymen that India is sure to be Naxal-free by 31 March 2026,” wrote HM Amit Shah. On Wednesday, security forces said that the extensive operation lasting nearly a month in the rugged terrain of Karregutta Hills in Bijapur district. The mission resulted in the elimination of 31 Maoists, comprising 17 women and 14 men, an official said. Authorities confirmed that all bodies have been recovered, and soldiers have returned safely. During the encounter, 18 security personnel sustained injuries, including eight who were hurt in IED blasts, officials further said. Fortunately, all injured personnel are in stable condition. Swift medical evacuations ensured that they were airlifted and admitted to hospitals for treatment without delay. The scale of the operation was unprecedented, involving approximately 10,000 personnel from various law enforcement agencies. Forces from the District Reserve Guard (DRG), Bastar Fighters, Special Task Force (STF), state police units, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and its elite Cobra unit participated in the coordinated mission. Additionally, Telangana Police played a key role in supporting the operation, said the officials on Wednesday during a press conference. The government continues its push to eliminate Naxal insurgency from the country, with officials emphasising the importance of sustained efforts in the coming months. The operation underscores the commitment to restoring peace and security in affected regions. –IANSsktr/dan

Bhopal, May 14 (IANS) Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML), a public sector company, is set to establish a metro rail coach manufacturing plant and rolling stocks in Madhya Pradesh with an investment of Rs 1,800 crore.Notably, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav is in Bengaluru on day-long visit to Bengaluru to hand over an allotment letter for 60 hectares (148 acres) of land to the company.“They will make even Vande Bharat coaches in Madhya Pradesh now as they make them in Bengaluru with an investment of Rs 1,800 crore,” CM Yadav said in Bengaluru after handing over documents related to land allotment.The facility will be located in Umaria village, Goharganj tehsil, Raisen district.The Madhya Pradesh state cabinet has approved the allocation of land for this project, aiming to boost the production of rolling stock, rail, and metro coaches in the region.Mohan Yadav officially handed over the land allotment documents to BEML during a function in Bengaluru on Wednesday.The company has expanded its manufacturing footprint by acquiring 148 acres in Madhya Pradesh, reinforcing domestic production capabilities.The government has sanctioned 60.063 hectares in Umaria for the establishment of a modern facility dedicated to manufacturing rail and metro components for national infrastructure projects.State officials will present the official allotment letter to BEML in the presence of the Chief Minister. BEML has committed to setting up a factory in Goharganj, Raisen district, for high-speed rail and metro coach production.During his visit, the Chief Minister will also tour the institute and engage in an interactive session with investors in Bengaluru to highlight Madhya Pradesh’s industrial potential.Bengaluru-based BEML manufactures a variety of heavy equipment like earthmoving, transport, Railway and mining equipment. BEML is Asia’s second-largest manufacturer of earth moving equipment.The Bengaluru programme was organised to attract investment from various sectors.CM Yadav and investors also had a one-to-one discussion focussing key sectors such as information technology, electronics, manufacturing, defence, automobiles, and tourism.He will also visit the BEML campus and attend the inauguration of the 2,100th metro coach.Additionally, Chief Minister Yadav addressed an investment forum on opportunities in Madhya Pradesh, showcasing the state’s industrial strengths and policy initiatives to leading investors from Medium, Small and Micro Enterprises (MSME) and large sector.This initiative bolsters BEML’s contribution to the country’s ‘Make in India’ programme while catering to the increasing demand for advanced transport solutions. It further supports regional development by generating employment opportunities.The new facility will enhance BEML’s production capacity and ensure faster delivery times for large-scale transport contracts. Given the rising demand in urban areas, this unit will play a crucial role in timely project execution.Separately, on May 9, BEML announced the acquisition of 100 acres in Janjgir-Champa, Chhattisgarh, at a symbolic rate of Re 1 per acre, illustrating strong state support for industrial expansion.–IANSsktr/pgh

Gurugram, May 14 (IANS) A crime branch of the Gurugram Police has arrested three members of ‘Thak-Thak’ who were involved in two dozen theft incidents in Delhi and Gurugram, police said.

The suspects have been identified as Surya Swamy, Romit (alias Johnny) and Karan, all residents of Ambedkar Nagar, Delhi.On April 30, a person lodged a complaint at Police Station DLF Phase-1, Gurugram, regarding that on April 29/30, an unknown person broke the glass of his car near DLF Phase-1, Gurugram, and stole his laptop, purse, and other goods.On this complaint, a case was registered under the relevant sections at Police Station DLF Phase-1, Gurugram.The police team of Crime Branch Sector-43, Gurugram, took action and arrested three accused in the matter.”Accused Surya Swamy was arrested in Gurugram on May 8, and accused Karan was arrested in Aya Nagar, Delhi, on May 9. The police team produced the accused in the court for further action and took them on a five day police custody remand,” police said.During police interrogation, the accused revealed that they had committed 21 other incidents of theft by breaking the glass of vehicles in Gurugram and Delhi.From the observation of the criminal record of the accused, it was found that two cases related to theft are registered against accused Surya Swamy in Delhi.”The accused are the active gang members of the ‘Thak-Thak’ gang. The accused first do a recce of the vehicles parked at deserted places and then, with the help of a slingshot, break the glass of the vehicles and steal the bags, laptops, cash, and other items kept in them,” the spokesperson of the Gurugram Police said.The police team has recovered one scooter, a slingshot, iron bullets for the slingshot, one laptop charger, and six credit and debit cards from the possession of the accused.–IANSstr/dan

New Delhi, May 14 (IANS) Harschit D. of Uttar Pradesh and Nishika Aggarwal of Telangana remained the top stars of the artistic gymnastics competitions in the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) 2025 at the IG Stadium Sports complex, here on Wednesday. The Khelo India Athlete (KIA) duo continued their medal-winning run on Wednesday, ending their campaign on a high.After clinching gold in their all-round final events on Tuesday, Harschit bagged double gold in the Floor Exercise and Vaulting Table events, respectively, as well as a silver in the Still Rings event.“I’m feeling satisfied. This is my third edition. I had three medals the last time in Tamil Nadu KIYG, and I am happy to have surpassed the tally this time around. I’ve improved a lot and there has been a lot of evolution thanks to my coaches,” Harschit, 17, told SAI Media.“I’ve been a part of the Khelo India scheme for the past two years, and it has motivated my training a lot,” he added.Nishika, 17, meanwhile, picked gold in the Vaulting Table event as well as double bronze in the Uneven Bars and Balancing Beam events on Wednesday. She, however, wasn’t too happy with her performance on Wednesday.“It has overall been a good performance, but I wish I had a better showing in the other events where I won the bronze, especially in the floor, where I couldn’t make the top 3. I underperformed a bit today after continuous days of events, but it’s all a lesson taken forward,” mentioned Nishika.ResultsBoys:Floor Exercise: Harschit D. (Uttar Pradesh) 12.600; 2. Minhaj S. Saj (Kerala) 11.667; 3. Tulintewary (Jharkhand) 11.433Pommel Horse: S.K. Nabhigh Ali (Delhi) 11.967; 2. Jatin Kushwaha (Uttar Pradesh) 11.633; 3. Vikas Yadav (Uttar Pradesh) 11.233Still Rings: Sameer Kohli (Punjab) 11.400; 2. Harschit D (Uttar Pradesh) 10.967; 3. Anay Aditya Kirloskar (Maharashtra) 10.600Vaulting Table: 1. Harschit D. (Uttar Pradesh) 12.767; 2. Akshat Bajaj (Delhi) 12.650; 3. Reyan Rawat (Delhi) 11.884Parallel Bars: 1. S.K. Nabhigh Ali (Delhi) 12.033; 2. Jatin Kushwaha (Uttar Pradesh) 11.933; 3. Yatharth Kesharwani (Uttar Pradesh) 11.867High Bar: 1. Niladri Sarkar (West Bengal) 11.000; Dibas Gayen (Jharkhand) 10.967; Ajad Laskar (Odisha) 10.933Girls:Vaulting Table: 1. Nishika Aggrawal (Telangana) 12.334; 2. Anoushka Patil (Maharashtra) 12.100; 3. Sara Rawool (Maharashtra) 11.700Uneven Bars: 1. Anoushka Patil (Maharashtra) 10.433; 2. Sneha Tariyal (Delhi) 9.833; 3. Nishika Aggrawal (Telangana) 9.700Balancing Beam: Varsha Anand Nair (Kerala) 10.833; 2. Jinia Debnath (West Bengal) 10.700; 3. Nishika Aggrawal (Telangana) 10.600Floor Exercise: 1. Shatakshi Takke (Maharashtra) 10.700; 2. Sara Rawool (Maharashtra) 10.467; 3. Riya M (Karnataka) 10.433.–IANSbsk/

Chennai, May 14 (IANS) The audio of director Mani Ratnam’s much-awaited action extravaganza, ‘Thug Life’, featuring actor Kamal Haasan in the lead, is to be launched at a grand event on May 24, its makers announced on Wednesday.
Raaj Kamal Films International, the production house of actor Kamal Haasan which is also one of the firms producing the film, on Wednesday issued a statement in which it said that while the trailer of the film would be launched on May 17, its audio would be launched at a grand event at the Sairam college in Chennai and that Oscar winner A R Rahman would perform live at the event.Raaj Kamal Films, in its statement said, “In recent days, we paused our celebrations to stand in solidarity with the nation. We remain deeply grateful for the support, patience, and understanding of our audiences across the world. With renewed clarity and respect for the moment, we now resume the ‘Thug Life’ journey.”The road ahead is charged with conviction in our hearts and creativity as our compass. Here are the milestones that await. Thug Life Trailer Launch at 5 pm on May 17, 2025. Thug Life Audio Launch (LIVE performance by AR RAHMAN & team) at Sairam college, Chennai on May 24. Worldwide Release on June 5. We are honoured to share this labour of love and rebellion with you. The Thugs march forward! – fuelled by your love and unwavering support. Team Thug Life,” it said.It may be recalled that the audio launch was originally scheduled to be held on May 16. However, taking into consideration the escalation in tension on the country’s borders, the unit of director Mani Ratnam’s ‘Thug Life’ decided to postpone the audio launch function of the film.Actor Kamal Haasan, in a statement that he issued then had said, “Art can wait. India comes first. In view of the developments at our nation’s border and the current state of heightened alert, we have decided to reschedule the audio launch of ‘Thug Life’, originally planned for the 16th of May.”The actor further said, “As our soldiers stand firm on the frontlines with unflinching courage in defence of our motherland, I believe it is a time for quiet solidarity, not celebration. A new date will be announced at a later, more appropriate time.”Stating that at this time, our thoughts are with the brave men and women of our armed forces who stand vigilant, safeguarding our nation, the actor said, “As citizens, it is our duty to respond with restraint and solidarity. Celebration must make way for reflection.”Thug Life, directed by Mani Ratnam, features Kamal Haasan in the lead. The film will also feature actors Silambarasan, Trisha, Joju George, Ashok Selvan and Abhirami in pivotal roles.Kamal Haasan plays a character called Rangaraya Sakthivel Naickan in this film, which director Mani Ratnam’s production house Madras Talkies had described as “an epic tale of power, rebellion, and triumph.”The film has music by A R Rahman and cinematography by Ravi K Chandran. It has editing by Mani Ratnam’s trusted editor Sreekar Prasad and stunts by the stuntmasters, Anbariv.–IANSmkr/

Mumbai, May 14 (IANS) The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has urged all Indian film producers to reconsider Turkey as a filming destination in light of the country’s growing support for Pakistan.

In a statement issued, the film body emphasized the need for the Indian film industry to take a stand against Turkey’s political alignment, urging producers to seek alternative locations for their shoots.FWICE, which represents 36 different crafts of workers, technicians, and artists in India’s media and entertainment sector, has strongly urged producers to boycott Turkey as a shooting location. This call comes in response to Turkey’s increasing support for Pakistan on issues that are of significant concern to India’s national interests.In the statement, FWICE said, “FWICE has always stood firm in its belief that “Nation Comes First.” In view of recent developments and Turkey’s consistent positioning in support of Pakistan, which has raised concerns regarding national integrity and security, we believe it is not in the best interests of the Indian film industry to invest or collaborate in any form that could indirectly support or benefit such a nation.”The statement further read, “Turkey’s stance has been observed not just diplomatically but also in various international forums, where it has taken positions contrary to India’s sovereign interests. As an industry deeply rooted in Indian soil and culture, we cannot remain indifferent to actions that undermine our nation’s dignity or security. We therefore appeal to all production houses, line producers, actors, directors, and crew members across the Indian film fraternity to stand in solidarity with the nation and boycott Turkey as a location for film shoots until such time that the country revisits its diplomatic stance and aligns with principles of mutual respect and non-interference.”“FWICE has always been a pillar of strength for the Indian film industry and its workforce. Our unity during such times is vital to send a strong, collective message: India’s sovereignty and dignity are non-negotiable. We remain hopeful that the Indian film community will respect this appeal in the larger national interest,” added the film body.FWICE’s statement comes after Turkey and Azerbaijan’s official support for Pakistan sparked significant backlash in India. On May 8, both Turkey and Azerbaijan issued official statements expressing their support for Pakistan. Turkey’s Foreign Ministry condemned Operation Sindoor, calling it a “provocative act.” This statements led to widespread backlash across Indian social media, with many users, including celebrities like Rupali Ganguly, voicing their anger and fueling calls to boycott Turkey.–IANSps/

Gandhinagar, May 14 (IANS) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel launched two digital portals and a mobile application under the Home Department, aimed at enhancing transparency, efficiency, and accessibility in the state’s law enforcement services.

Minister of State for Home Harsh Sanghvi was also present at the launch event.The initiatives, rolled out statewide, are designed to streamline police procedures and empower citizens with online access to key services, reducing the need for in-person visits to police stations.Among the highlights was the launch of the Cyber Crime Refund Portal, titled “Tera Tujhko Arpan”, which facilitates quick monetary refunds for victims of cyber fraud.First introduced in Ahmedabad in October 2024 by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the portal has already demonstrated significant impact, halving the backlog of applications and increasing processing efficiency by 50 per cent.Developed by the Ahmedabad City Cyber Crime Cell, the system enables online registration, real-time status tracking, and refunds without the need for an FIR. Lok Adalats play a key role in accelerating the refund process.What once took two to three hours at a police station now takes just 15 minutes, thanks to automated refund letters and digital documentation. Following its successful pilot in Ahmedabad, the portal has now been made accessible across all police stations in Gujarat, with unique login credentials and pre-launch training provided to ensure a smooth rollout.The Chief Minister also launched I-PRAGATI, a new SMS-based system integrated into the existing eGujCop portal. It provides automated updates to complainants at four key stages of the investigation process — filing of FIR, panchnama, arrest of the accused, and submission of the charge sheet.Initially piloted by the State Crime Record Bureau (SCRB), I-PRAGATI has now been implemented statewide. The system not only enhances transparency but also addresses one of the most common grievances among citizens: a lack of timely updates.“This initiative is part of our commitment to good governance and minimal human interference,” said CM Patel, emphasising the state’s push toward digital transformation in policing.Another key development is the Unfreeze Application, which allows citizens to digitally request the unfreezing of bank accounts blocked due to cybercrime complaints filed via the NCRP portal under BNSS 106 (CRPC 102).With this app, users can file requests online, track their progress, and receive email notifications, eliminating the need for physical follow-ups or visits to police stations.The tool aims to empower citizens, reduce procedural delays, and ensure full transparency in the post-incident resolution process. Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister said the adoption of digital tools in law enforcement reflects the use of technology for both citizen welfare and national security.Minister Harsh Sanghvi added that Gujarat is emerging as a model state for citizen-centric policing, particularly in the domain of cybercrime.“Gujarat Police has already processed over 2.25 lakh bank account unfreezing requests. These platforms now ensure that victims are not only heard but also helped, swiftly and systematically,” he said.–IANSjanvi/dan

Yupia (A.P), May 14 (IANS) Two wins, a dozen goals scored, none conceded. Bibiano Fernandes and his boys have thoroughly…

Moscow, May 14 (IANS) Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov said on Wednesday that the Russian delegation is expected to address political and technical issues during the upcoming talks with Ukraine in Turkey on Thursday.
“The delegation needs to address both political and, I’d say, a billion of technical issues. So the composition of the delegation will be determined based on that,” the official said, addressing a reporter of a Russian Television network.Ushakov further mentioned that Moscow’s proposal is to resume the 2022 talks that were suspended by the Ukrainian side at the urging of Western colleagues and partners. He however, did not answer whether he himself is a part of the Russian delegation.Speaking to reporters in the Kremlin in the early hours of May 11, Putin proposed to the Kyiv authorities to resume direct talks suspended in 2022, without preconditions.Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said that the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other US officials will be present at Thursday’s Istanbul talks on Ukraine.“Marco [Rubio] is going to be going there, others are going to be going, and we’ll see if we can get it done,” he said while addressing a bilateral investment forum in Saudi Arabia.“Very importantly, talks are being held in Turkey later this week, probably on Thursday, and they could produce some pretty good results,” the US leader said, without elaborating.A White House spokesperson also told reporters that Rubio will be accompanied by the US President’s special envoys, Steve Witkoff and Keith Kellogg.Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov on Tuesday said that Russia and the United States continue to maintain contact on Ukraine, but are not coordinating on the upcoming Istanbul talks.“The Americans are well aware of our position. We remain in contact. However, this is not the word (coordination) to use in this particular case,” Russian state-run news agency TASS quoted the minister as saying.President Putin proposed to launch the dialogue with Ukraine on May 15 in Istanbul. He further recalled that Russia had declared ceasefires more than once, but all of them, including the latest three-day truce on account of the Victory Day celebration were violated by the Kyiv regime.On the other hand, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday expressed willingness to hold discussions with his Russian counterpart Putin, to end the ongoing conflict between both nations. The statement came shortly after President Trump called on Ukraine to immediately agree to the negotiations proposed by the Russian leader. Before that, Zelensky conditioned talks with Moscow on a 30-day ceasefire.–IANSint/scor/as