As the fall season brings in potential award contenders, Netflix debuts two films that may have what it takes to win at the Oscars. The Piano Lesson, directed by Denzel Washington's son, and Joy, the origin story of in vitro fertilization, bring timely and thought-provoking narratives to the streaming platform. But it's not all serious as the dark comedy It's What's Inside follows a group of friends who play a dangerous body-swapping game at a wedding.
In a stunning display of efficiency and progress, the Income Tax Department in India has recorded a surge of 46.31% in tax refunds, amounting to Rs 3.08 lakh crore in just 8 months. This marks a significant increase from the previous year's refunds of Rs 2.03 lakh crore during the same time period. The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) played a crucial role in this achievement, along with the implementation of a Demand Management Facilitation Centre and timely awareness campaigns for taxpayers. This surge in refunds not only showcases the capacity of the system but also the proactive engagement of taxpayers in adhering to filing deadlines.
The Bhagavad Gita, an ancient Hindu text composed over two millennia ago, offers profound insights into the concept of consciousness. According to Krishna, the ultimate truth or Atman is pure consciousness, not confined to the physical realm. The mind, influenced by wants and fears, can either distort or enhance our understanding of consciousness. By mastering the mind and achieving a state of mental discipline, we can tap into a more permanent state of consciousness that is less affected by external circumstances. The wisdom of the Gita provides a timely reminder in today's age of distractions and anxieties.
Spright Agro, a leading player in the sector, has announced the launch of an expert investment program on Whatsapp to provide valuable and timely advice to industry players. This program aims to assist individuals and organizations in making wise investments and staying updated on the latest market trends. By partnering with Spright Agro for investment advice, players can stay ahead of the competition and achieve financial success in the sector.
In a major step towards eradicating tuberculosis in India by 2025, MRPL has donated 1 crore rupees to purchase four CB-NAAT machines for the National TB Elimination Programme. These advanced machines will be distributed among two districts, Dakshina Kannada and Udupi, to improve healthcare access and facilitate timely TB diagnosis. This contribution aligns with MRPL's CSR initiative, Arogya Samrakshan, and underscores its commitment to improving healthcare and community well-being.
In the recent UK spring elections, there has been a shift in focus towards cycling and climate change, presenting opportunities for advocacy and change. In Scotland and Wales, the transport brief now falls under ministers in charge of climate change, showing recognition of the connection between transportation and carbon reduction. This change is timely, as the UK prepares to host the UN Climate Change Conference. In England, however, major road upgrades are still being funded, highlighting the need for consistent and concerted efforts across all countries.
The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has announced that pensioners under the Employee’s Pension Scheme (EPS) will receive their pension for the month of October in advance on October 29 due to Diwali festivities. This will ensure timely payment without any delay and helps pensioners to withdraw their funds on October 30. The EPS-95 scheme was launched in 1995 for employees in the private organised sector, where both employers and employees contribute towards the provident fund for a fixed pension after retirement.
After a steady start by New Zealand's batters, Washington Sundar's timely wickets in the second session, along with R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja's spin attack, helped India keep the visitors in check on Day 1 of the 3rd Test match. Despite half-centuries by Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra, the Indian bowlers were able to restrict New Zealand to 201 for 5 by the end of the session on a slow pitch that offered little support.
Sreenu Vaitla's latest Telugu film, Viswam, fails to impress critics who feel that it follows the same tired tropes and clichés of mainstream Telugu cinema. The film boasts an all-star cast and offers a mix of action, romance, humor, and emotional drama; however, it fails to deliver an engaging and coherent narrative. Despite tackling the timely topic of terrorism, the film quickly veers off track and introduces numerous characters and subplots that add little to the overall story. Critics label Viswam as just another forgettable and tiresome entry in the genre.
Abhimanyu Easwaran, the Rest of India vice-captain, scored a flawless hundred against Mumbai in the Irani Cup, solidifying his position in the race for India's backup Test opener. The seasoned 29-year-old showcased his skills with his 26th First-Class hundred, amid stiff competition from fellow RoI teammates Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sai Sudharsan. As selectors gear up for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Easwaran's timely reminder of his abilities and consistent performances this season make a strong case for his inclusion in the Test squad. With the India A tour to Australia just around the corner, the race for the third opener's slot is expected to intensify.