September 10, 2025

THE CLIFF NEWS

National Daily Bilingual Newspaper

Category: Trending

Two Soldiers Killed in Kulgam Gunfight, Year’s Security Toll in J&K Rises to 19

Two Army personnel — Subedar Perbhat Gaur and Lance Naik Narender Sindhu — were killed during a fierce gunfight with terrorists in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district on Monday, taking the number of security personnel killed in Jammu and Kashmir this year to 19. The clash broke out when Army, CRPF, and J&K police launched a joint search operation in the Guddar forests following intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists. Officials said the militants opened fire when challenged. One terrorist was killed in the initial exchange of fire, and another was gunned down later. While their identities are still being confirmed, sources told PTI that one was a local militant and the other was suspected to be a Pakistani known by the code name “Rehman Bhai”. Three other Army personnel, including a Major, were injured in the encounter and evacuated for medical treatment. Despite efforts, Subedar Gaur and Lance Naik Sindhu could not be saved. The officer’s condition is reported to be stable. The Army’s Chinar Corps confirmed the deaths of the two soldiers on social media. Of the 19 fatalities among security forces in J&K this year, six have taken place in Kashmir and 13 in the Jammu division. The encounter comes less than a month after a series of clashes in the Valley. On August 13, Havildar Ankit Kumar of the 9 Bihar Regiment was killed in a firefight with armed intruders along the LoC in Uri sector, Baramulla — the third Army fatality in five days. That incident followed the end of an 11-day offensive in Kulgam, where Lance Naik Pritpal Singh and Sepoy Harminder Singh of 19 Rashtriya Rifles were killed. Kulgam has witnessed multiple extended operations this year, including a prolonged battle in the Akhal Khulsan forests from August 1 to 13, in which two soldiers were killed before the forces concluded the offensive. According to security agencies, 18 terrorists have been killed in Kashmir since the April 22 Pahalgam attack, including three Lashkar-e-Taiba commanders linked to that strike. The trio was shot dead in Srinagar on July 28.

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Editor03 mins

Blood Moon 2025: One of the Longest Total Lunar Eclipses of the Decade

On the night of September 7–8, 2025, skywatchers across Asia, Africa, Europe, and Australia will witness a breathtaking total lunar eclipse, popularly known as a Blood Moon. This eclipse is set apart by its exceptional duration, with the total phase lasting about 82 minutes, making it one of the longest total lunar eclipses in the past 10 years. The extended length of this celestial spectacle is due to two rare factors: the Moon’s slower movement near apogee (its farthest point from Earth) and its central passage through Earth’s umbra, the darkest part of the shadow. This perfect alignment offers observers a prolonged and unforgettable view of the Moon glowing in shades of deep red and copper. Why the Moon Turns Red: The Science Behind the Blood Moon A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth moves between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow across the lunar surface. During a total eclipse, the Moon passes fully into the umbra and darkens dramatically. Instead of vanishing, it takes on a reddish hue because of Rayleigh scattering. As sunlight passes through Earth’s atmosphere, shorter wavelengths (blue and green) scatter away, while longer red wavelengths bend around the Earth to light up the Moon. This same effect makes sunsets and sunrises appear red. Eclipse Timings for India (IST) – September 7–8, 2025 With the Moon high in the sky, Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru will provide ideal viewing conditions. Global Visibility For regions missing out, astronomy observatories will stream the event live worldwide. Why the September 2025 Eclipse is Special How to Watch the Blood Moon A Celestial Treat for Billions The September 7–8, 2025 Blood Moon will not only be a dazzling astronomical event but also a rare opportunity for billions to connect with the cosmos. With its unusual duration, striking colors, and wide visibility, this eclipse promises to be one of the most memorable skywatching events of the decade.

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Editor05 mins

Allahabad HC Raises Concern Over Safety of Women in Gyms, Seeks Details on Registration

Allahabad High Court has expressed serious concern over the safety and dignity of women clients being trained by male trainers in gyms without adequate safeguards. The observation came from Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav while hearing an appeal filed by Nitin Saini, a gym trainer from Meerut, accused of using caste-based slurs against a woman client. The matter will now be heard on September 8. The victim, in her statement before the trial court, alleged that Saini had also prepared obscene videos of another woman client and sent them to her. Taking note of these allegations, the court remarked that the acts may attract offences under Sections 354 (assault or criminal force to outrage the modesty of a woman) and 504 (intentional insult to provoke breach of peace) of the IPC. In its order dated August 27, the high court directed the Investigating Officer of Police Station Brahmpuri, Meerut to submit a personal affidavit specifying: Calling it a matter of “serious concern,” the court underlined the need for safeguards to protect women clients during gym training sessions.

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Editor02 mins

Justice Vikram Nath Credits ‘Stray Dog Case’ for Global Recognition

Supreme Court judge Justice Vikram Nath on Saturday said that the much-debated “stray dog case” had given him recognition beyond the legal fraternity, making him well-known in civil society not only in India but across the world. Speaking at the Regional Conference on Human-Wildlife Conflict in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Justice Nath expressed gratitude to Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai for assigning him the matter. “So long I have been known in the legal fraternity for the little work I do, but I am thankful to the stray dogs for making me known to the entire civil society, not only in this country but world over,” he said. He recalled that while speaking at the Law Asia POLA Summit, even foreign delegates had asked him questions about stray dogs. “I felt very elated… well people outside India also know me. So I am thankful to them for giving me this recognition. In addition to human blessings and good wishes, I have their good wishes also,” he remarked. The Delhi Stray Dog Case Justice Nath headed the three-judge bench that, on August 22, modified an earlier order of August 11 issued by a two-judge bench regarding the relocation of stray dogs in Delhi-NCR. The August 11 order, delivered by Justices J.B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan, had directed municipal authorities to round up stray dogs across the capital region and move them into shelters within eight weeks. However, Justice Nath’s bench ruled on August 22 that all dogs, except those infected with rabies or showing aggressive behaviour, must be released back to their original locations after sterilisation and vaccination. This contradicted the earlier directive and triggered widespread debate, with animal rights groups and dog lovers hailing the decision, while critics raised concerns about public safety.

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Editor03 mins

Rupee Inches Up Despite Tariff Jolt; India Slams U.S. Sanctions as “Unfair”

Mumbai, August 7, 2025 — The Indian rupee appreciated marginally by 5 paise to open at 87.67 against the U.S. dollar in early trade on Thursday, defying broader concerns after U.S. President Donald Trump doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50% over India’s continued imports of Russian oil. At the interbank foreign exchange market, the domestic currency opened at 87.69 and rose to an intraday high of 87.67, compared to its previous close of 87.72. This follows a rebound on Wednesday when the rupee recovered from a record low. India Hit with Harshest U.S. Tariffs Trump’s decision to slap an additional 25% duty — raising total tariffs on certain Indian exports to 50% — has drawn sharp criticism from New Delhi. India described the action as “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable.” Sectors such as textiles, marine products, and leather goods are expected to be the hardest hit, as they now face the highest tariff burden globally — on par with Brazil. Other countries such as China and Turkey were spared the same level of penalties, facing only 30% and 15% duties, respectively. The punitive action, set to take effect within 21 days, is being interpreted as a direct response to India’s refusal to halt its oil trade with Russia. Economic Fallout Looms Economists are warning of a broader economic impact. According to Amit Pabari, MD of CR Forex Advisors, “If no resolution is reached within the 21-day window, India’s FY26 GDP growth could be revised down to below 6%, factoring in a 40–50 basis point hit — twice the earlier estimate.” Pabari also flagged the rupee’s vulnerability amid mounting external pressures, adding that continued uncertainty could trigger further depreciation. RBI Holds Rates Amid Caution In its latest monetary policy review, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.50% and maintained a neutral stance. Analysts interpret the move as a signal that the central bank is opting for a cautious, “wait-and-watch” approach amid rising trade tensions and a slowing global economy. India’s forex reserves dropped by $9.3 billion to $688.9 billion as of August 1, reflecting the RBI’s active intervention in currency markets. Markets React; Oil, Dollar Edge Higher Brent crude futures rose 0.99% to $67.55 per barrel, adding further pressure on India’s import bill. Meanwhile, the U.S. dollar index edged up by 0.04% to 98.21, suggesting sustained greenback strength. Domestic equities opened in the red, with the Sensex falling 335.71 points to 80,208.28 and the Nifty dropping 114.15 points to 24,460.05 in early trade. Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) net sold Indian equities worth ₹4,999.10 crore on Wednesday, continuing their recent exit trend.

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Editor04 mins

Rs 95 Crore Paycheck: HCLTech’s C. Vijayakumar Becomes Highest-Paid Indian IT CEO

HCLTech CEO C. Vijayakumar has emerged as India’s highest-paid IT CEO, earning ₹94.6 crore ($11.4 million) in the financial year 2024–25, according to the company’s annual report. His remuneration comprised: The US-based CEO received a 7.9% hike over his previous year’s compensation. His total salary was a staggering 662.5 times the median employee remuneration, highlighting the widening gap between top leadership and the average worker. The average salary hike for employees (excluding managerial staff) stood at just 3.1% during the same period. Peer Comparison ₹154 Crore Pay in 2025–26 The HCLTech board has approved a 71% increase in Vijayakumar’s compensation, raising it to $18.6 million (approx. ₹154 crore) for the current financial year. The hike acknowledges his long-standing leadership and strong performance record. Growth Under Vijayakumar (FY16–FY25) HCLTech’s performance under his leadership has been notable: This expansion was enabled by a ‘One HCLTech’ approach, integrating services under a verticalized go-to-market model that enhanced agility, alignment, and client responsiveness. Challenges Ahead HCLTech Chairperson Roshni Nadar acknowledged a challenging demand environment, citing global trade uncertainties and geopolitical tensions. She emphasized that AI-led technology evolution is pushing the IT services industry to reinvent itself. “HCLTech is prepared to adapt to these shifts and remain well-positioned to seize emerging opportunities,” she said. Workforce Snapshot The report reaffirms Vijayakumar’s reappointment as CEO & MD from September 1, 2025, to March 31, 2030, as HCLTech bets big on strategic leadership amid an evolving tech landscape.

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Editor03 mins

सामय रैना का तूफानी कमबैक: ‘स्टिल अलाइव एंड अनफिल्टर्ड’ टूर ने तोड़े सारे रिकॉर्ड

कमेडी की दुनिया में लौटे सामय रैनास्टैंड-अप कॉमेडियन सामय रैना ने यह साबित कर दिया है कि दर्शकों से उनका जुड़ाव आज भी उतना ही मजबूत है, चाहे कितनी भी आलोचनाएं या विवाद क्यों न झेले हों। हाल ही में विवादों में घिरे अपने यूट्यूब शो India’s Got Latent को हटाने के बाद अब रैना ने अपने नए अखिल भारतीय टूर ‘Samay Raina is Still Alive and Unfiltered’ के साथ धमाकेदार वापसी की है। घंटे भर में 40,000 टिकट्स की बिक्रीइस टूर की टिकट बिक्री किसी चमत्कार से कम नहीं रही—महज एक घंटे में 40,000 टिकट्स बिक गए। यह सामय रैना की फैन फॉलोइंग और उनकी अटूट लोकप्रियता का स्पष्ट प्रमाण है। देशभर के प्रशंसकों ने उनके समर्थन में जबरदस्त उत्साह दिखाया है। यह सात शहरों का टूर भारतीय स्टैंड-अप कॉमेडी के इतिहास में मील का पत्थर साबित हो सकता है। टूर शेड्यूल और दर्शकों की प्रतिक्रियायह बहुप्रतीक्षित टूर 15 अगस्त को बेंगलुरु से शुरू होगा और इसके बाद हैदराबाद, मुंबई, कोलकाता, चेन्नई, पुणे होते हुए 5 अक्टूबर को दिल्ली में समाप्त होगा। ऑनलाइन टिकट बुकिंग की रफ्तार ने आयोजकों को भी चौंका दिया है, जो दर्शाता है कि रैना के प्रशंसक उन्हें मंच पर देखने के लिए कितने उत्साहित हैं। अंतरराष्ट्रीय सफलता और आलोचना के बाद वापसीइस टूर की घोषणा सामय के न्यूजीलैंड, ऑस्ट्रेलिया, यूके और यूरोप में सफल अंतरराष्ट्रीय टूर के बाद हुई है, जिसकी शुरुआत मई में हुई थी। टूर की जबरदस्त प्रतिक्रिया ने आलोचकों को चुप करा दिया है और एक बार फिर साबित कर दिया है कि वह भारतीय कॉमेडी के शीर्ष कलाकारों में से एक हैं। विवाद और उसका असरगौरतलब है कि India’s Got Latent शो के एक एपिसोड में अतिथि द्वारा की गई विवादास्पद टिप्पणी को लेकर काफी विरोध हुआ था। कई पुलिस शिकायतें दर्ज हुईं और सार्वजनिक आक्रोश के चलते रैना ने शो के सारे वीडियो अपने यूट्यूब चैनल से हटा दिए थे और जांच में सहयोग किया था। फिर भी, “स्टिल अलाइव” टूर की रिकॉर्डतोड़ सफलता यह दर्शाती है कि दर्शकों का भरोसा और समर्थन उनके साथ बना हुआ है। टूर का नाम भी उसी अनुभव का व्यंग्यपूर्ण और भावनात्मक प्रतिबिंब है—यह एक कलाकार की दृढ़ता और पुनः आरंभ करने की इच्छा को बयां करता है।

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Editor01 mins

Ranveer Singh, Sreeleela & Bobby Deol to Star Together; Title Reveal Imminent

MUMBAI: In what promises to be one of the most exciting Bollywood collaborations of the year, Ranveer Singh, Sreeleela, and Bobby Deol are set to join forces for a yet-untitled film. According to industry insiders, the highly anticipated project will finally unveil its official title—and first look—next week. The buzz began when the trio were spotted arriving separately at Mehboob Studios in Mumbai, fueling speculation that they were gearing up for a joint announcement. “The collaboration of Ranveer Singh, Sreeleela, and Bobby Deol is shaping up to be even more thrilling with each passing update,” said an independent source. “Fans are in for a treat, as the title of the film will be revealed in the coming week, along with the unveiling of its first look!” Each actor brings a unique flair that raises expectations sky-high: While details on the film’s genre, director, and storyline remain under wraps, trade analysts predict it will be a high-octane entertainer, leveraging the trio’s combined box-office appeal. Production is reportedly already underway, with key portions filmed in and around Mumbai. With the title announcement and first-look poster slated for next week, social media is abuzz with fan theories and trending hashtags. As this powerhouse combination gears up for its official reveal, one thing is certain: Bollywood’s next big blockbuster is on the horizon.

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Editor03 mins

Yash Raj Films’ ‘Saiyaara’ Registers Over Rs 4 Crore in Advance Bookings Ahead of July 18 Release

Yash Raj Films’ upcoming romantic drama Saiyaara, directed by Mohit Suri, has already garnered strong pre-release buzz with advance bookings crossing Rs 4.37 crore gross (Rs 6.76 crore including block seats) for over 5,000 shows, according to trade reports and data from industry tracker Sacnilk. The film is set to release on July 18. Marking the acting debut of Ananya Panday’s cousin Ahaan Panday, Saiyaara also stars Aneet Padda, who earned acclaim for her performance in Prime Video’s Big Girls Don’t Cry. Ahaan plays Krissh Kapoor, a gifted but temperamental musician, while Aneet essays Vaani, a songwriter. Their professional collaboration soon evolves into a complicated love story. Among Indian states, Delhi leads with Rs 1.22 crore gross, followed by Maharashtra (Rs 1.13 crore), Uttar Pradesh (Rs 86.28 lakh), West Bengal (Rs 49.62 lakh), and Karnataka (Rs 40.6 lakh). The advance booking figure is reportedly the highest ever for a Bollywood debutant-led film, as noted by American entertainment magazine Variety. Breaking from conventional marketing strategies, YRF has deliberately kept its lead actors away from press events and interviews, instead creating intrigue through the film’s music and visuals. Director Mohit Suri told Variety, “We set out to make a very pure film and I’m happy that it is connecting with the audience… We haven’t tried to oversell the film. Our campaign has been all heart and we are very happy with the response so far.” The film’s soundtrack has been a major driver of early excitement. The album features soulful and romantic tracks by celebrated artists like Faheem-Arslan, Jubin Nautiyal, Vishal Mishra, Sachet-Parampara, Arijit Singh, Mithoon, Shreya Ghoshal, and Shilpa Rao. Popular songs include the title track Saiyaara, the heartbreak anthem Barbaad, and the romantic duet Dhun. Saiyaara marks the first collaboration between Yash Raj Films and Mohit Suri, known for hits like Aashiqui 2 and Ek Villain.

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Editor03 mins

Screen Academy Launches in India to Empower Next-Gen Filmmakers with Scholarships and Mentorships

In a landmark initiative to nurture emerging film talent across India, the newly launched Screen Academy — a not-for-profit venture supported by the Lodha Foundation and spearheaded is set to provide fully-funded postgraduate fellowships to aspiring filmmakers. The Academy aims to democratize access to quality film education and will work closely with top Indian film institutes to identify students with extraordinary storytelling talent but limited financial resources. Backed by Icons of Indian Cinema The Academy boasts an impressive and diverse advisory panel featuring Cannes and Oscar winners such as Guneet Monga, Payal Kapadia, Resul Pookutty, and veteran screenwriter Anjum Rajabali, who will head the selection committee. In collaboration with premier institutions like FTII (Pune), SRFTI (Kolkata), and Whistling Woods International (Mumbai), the Screen Academy Fellowships 2025 will fully support tuition and related costs for postgraduate study. More institutions are expected to be added as the initiative scales. Government and Industry Support Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis lauded the initiative’s timing and Mumbai-based launch, calling it deeply aligned with the city’s historic role in Indian cinema. Anant Goenka, Executive Director of The Indian Express Group, emphasized the need to institutionalize cultural excellence: “We will create an ecosystem that not only celebrates excellence but actively nurtures diverse and promising talent with both financial aid and access.” Abhishek Lodha, Founding Patron from the Lodha Foundation, noted the Academy’s role in India’s soft power: “Films and creative arts are a key strength of our nation, and the Screen Academy will help India become a global leader in this space.” Mentorship and Industry Integration In addition to scholarships, fellows will have access to a robust mentorship programme that includes masterclasses, internships, and long-term industry guidance from leading studios and professionals. Film school directors have welcomed the initiative: A Boost to Storytelling and Screenwriting Panel head Anjum Rajabali called the programme a vital investment in India’s creative ecosystem: “These scholarships will help in driving up the quality of writing and filmmaking in India, providing the industry with a much-needed pipeline of trained talent.” Applications for the fellowship can be made via With a focus on education, representation, and recognition, the Academy promises to become a cornerstone in India’s cultural and cinematic development.

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Editor04 mins
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