Entertainment

On Ambedkar’s death anniversary, Parliamentary panel on SCs and STs submits report outlining key recommendations

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2 years ago

December 7, 2023

Staff Reporter

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New Delhi [India], December 7 (ANI): On Mahaparinirvan Diwas, commemorating the death anniversary of BR Ambedkar, the Parliamentary Committee on the Welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes on Wednesday presented a detailed report outlining key recommendations.

The report stems from the committee’s extensive study visit to Havelock Island, Port Blair, Mahabalipuram, and Mumbai from August 24 to August 29, 2023.

The comprehensive report is poised to shape the direction of policies and initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting the ideals of Ambedkar for the welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in the country.

During discussions with the chief secretary and senior officials of the Maharashtra government, the committee urged the allocation of Rs 35 crore for the renovation of Siddharth College of Arts, Science, and Commerce in Fort, Mumbai.

An additional Rs25 crore was proposed for the digitalisation of books and documents in the college library, a move to preserve and make accessible the rich academic heritage housed within its walls.

The committee also emphasised the need for expediting the Indu Mill Memorial Project in Dadar, Mumbai. The recommendations included enhancing the auditorium’s seating capacity to 3,500 seats, constructing a separate convention hall with a 5,000-seat capacity, and introducing facilities such as a light and sound show and an animated movie centre showcasing BR Ambedkar’s life history.

The committee also urged the Maharashtra government to engage professionals like Yogesh K Arote and Sanjay Jhadav to assist the current Chief Architect, Shashi Prabhu.

Expressing concern over the lack of progress, the committee urged the initiation of the memorial construction at Ambadave Village, Ratnagiri District, which is Ambedkar’s native place. This location, declared as one of the Holy Panch Teerth by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2017, holds significant historical importance.

The panel recommended the issuance of permanent caste certificates to pre-1960 migrants of Gujarati descent settled in Mumbai.

It also urged the construction of residential accommodation for the Valmiki community/Safai Karamcharis in Maharashtra and proposed scholarships and financial assistance for sending 100 SC/ST students abroad annually for higher education.

Several recommendations focused on improving the representation of SC/ST individuals in selection and promotion committees and boards of directors in public sector banks.

The committee stressed the importance of regular meetings between SC/ST employee welfare associations and management and the need for fair grading in annual performance appraisal reports.

It further underscored the urgency of implementing these recommendations and called for quarterly meetings between SC/ST employee welfare associations and management to ensure timely grievance redressal.

Additionally, it recommended the appointment of liaison officers and chief liaison officers, emphasising the importance of fair treatment in the annual appraisal system. (ANI)

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Entertainment

Dubai launches ‘Dubai+’ family streaming platform to boost digital media and creative economy

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2 weeks ago

January 29, 2026

Michael Gomes

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Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, has approved the launch of Dubai+, a new family-oriented digital media platform, reinforcing Dubai’s ambition to become a global hub for digital media and the creative economy.

The approval came as Sheikh Ahmed chaired the Dubai Media Council’s first meeting of 2026 at Dubai Media, where members reviewed sector strategies and plans to strengthen content creation, innovation and local production capabilities.

What is Dubai+?

Dubai+ will offer a wide range of family-friendly content, bringing together:

Local and Emirati productions
Arab series and films
International entertainment

The platform reflects Dubai Media’s integrated digital ecosystem strategy, responding to shifting viewer habits and the growing demand for high-quality, on-demand digital content.

“We believe media is a strategic force that shapes awareness, supports development and builds trust,” Sheikh Ahmed said.

Boosting Local Film and Content Production

The Council also reviewed plans to:

Enhance local production capabilities
Support cinema as a cultural and creative industry
Invest in programmes that drive creative and economic growth

Samr Al Marzooqi, Director of Films and Production at the Dubai Media Council, outlined upcoming initiatives aimed at showcasing Emirati and international talent while strengthening Dubai’s film sector.

Next Phase of Growth

Mona Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, said the next phase will focus on monitoring implementation and ensuring measurable outcomes across the sector.

Secretary General Nehal Badri added that priorities include encouraging private sector participation, accelerating content development, and investing in talent, advanced production technologies and future-ready capabilities.

Announcements

DP World ILT20 Crowns ‘Habibi & Habibti’ as mascot winners

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3 months ago

November 2, 2025

Staff Reporter

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The DP World International League T20 concluded its first-of-its-kind Mascot Design Competition this week. The competition was held from 4 July to 21 September.

The competition captured the imagination of students across the UAE. With an overwhelming number of entries, the activation demonstrated the extraordinary creativity, enthusiasm, and energy that cricket inspires among young minds, making it a truly nationwide celebration of sport, culture, and community.

The grand mascot unveiling was held at the Sheikh Rashid Auditorium, Indian High School, Oud Metha. The winning student, Levin Veeroy Fernandes, was officially announced, and his imaginative design (Habibi and Habibti) was transformed into the official mascot of the DP World ILT20, now set to become the face of the league for seasons to come.

The event featured an exciting reveal ceremony, with the student’s design brought to life and presented in front of a vibrant audience, celebrating not only Levin’s creativity but also the remarkable participation of schools and students across the UAE.

The DP World ILT20 extends its heartfelt thanks to all participants whose contributions made this initiative a resounding success. Each entry brought unique ideas and perspectives, reinforcing the league’s commitment to inspiring young minds and celebrating the spirit of cricket.

DP World ILT20 CEO David White: “On behalf of team DP World International League T20, I want to thank all the participants for their efforts. For us, all of you are winners, we are delighted with the interest that the competition created across the UAE.

“The DP World ILT20 is all about UAE and the development of the sport amongst present and future generations of cricketers. Sport and cricket in particular has helped bring together a number of communities and nationalities across the UAE. Cricket has a four-decade long legacy in the country and with the continued growth of the league, the future of cricket not only in the UAE but across the Gulf region is bright and exciting.”

Indian High Schools Group CEO Shri Punit MK Vasu: “Our partnership with DP World ILT20 presents a remarkable platform for our learners to witness world-class cricket in Dubai while embracing the deeper lessons the sport imparts.

“At The Indian High Group of Schools, we uphold the belief that cricket’s enduring spirit fosters respect, discipline, leadership, resilience, teamwork, and composure under pressure, values that cultivate not only accomplished athletes, but also well-rounded, future-ready individuals prepared to lead with integrity, ethics and purpose in a global arena.”

The DP World International League T20 Season 4 will begin on Tuesday, 2 December – UAE National Day (Eid-Al-Etihad) with a blockbuster opening, the six-team, 34-match tournament will conclude with the final on Sunday, 4 January 2026.

Entertainment

Canada Super 60 set to dazzle with star-studded concert line-up at Vancouver’s BC Place

Published

4 months ago

October 9, 2025

Michael Gomes

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The Canada Super 60 isn’t just changing the game; it’s creating North America’s newest entertainment spectacle. From October 8 to 13, Vancouver’s iconic BC Place will transform into a full-fledged cultural carnival, blending high-octane cricket with back-to-back music concerts.

Get ready for six nights of non-stop entertainment, headlined by some of the biggest names in Punjabi, Desi, and global fusion music. From the infectious beats of Harrdy Sandhu and Jassie Gill to the international flair of Mickey Singh, each night promises a festival atmosphere both on and off the pitch.

Concert Line-Up Highlights

Oct 8 – Harrdy Sandhu (9pm)
Oct 9 – Jassie Gill (9pm)
Oct 10 – Mickey Singh (9pm)
Oct 11 – Parmish Verma (9pm)
Oct 12 – Raf-Saperra (9pm)
Oct 13 – GirlsLikeYou x Indo Warehouse (6:15pm)

The entertainment bonanza runs alongside thrilling cricket matches featuring international stars and fan favourites. With Yuvraj Singh backing the league and legends like Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina on the field, Canada Super 60 is shaping up to be the ultimate blend of glamour, game, and groove.

“This is not just cricket; this is a lifestyle experience,” said a spokesperson for Canada Super 60. “Our entertainment line-up reflects the league’s ambition to unite cultures through music, sport, and community.”

Fans can expect full-scale stadium productions, food and cultural showcases, and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments, turning BC Place into Canada’s most happening venue this October.

About Canada Super 60

Canada Super 60 is the newest format in global cricket, a 60-ball showdown that delivers fast-paced action and festival-style entertainment. Backed by international icons and powered by music, sport, and cultural unity, it’s redefining how fans experience cricket in North America.