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  • Father of Green Revolution, MS Swaminathan passes awayindia


    Father of Green Revolution, no more

    MS Swaminathan, regarded as the father of India’s Green Revolution, passed away in Chennai on Thursday. He was 98.

    Image Source: BCCL

    ​Succumbed to ‘age related ailments’

    Family sources confirmed that he passed away at his residence in Teynampet at 11.15am following age-related ailments.

    Image Source: BCCL

    ​’Deeply saddened’, PM Modi extends condolences

    In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Deeply saddened by the demise of Dr. MS Swaminathan Ji. At a very critical period in our nation’s history, his groundbreaking work in agriculture transformed the lives of millions and ensured food security for our nation.” (Image courtsey: Narendra Modi twitter handle)

    Image Source: Agencies

    Rescued India from famine

    In the 1960s, when India was on the verge of a mass famine leading to a shortage of food grains, Swaminathan along with Norman Borlaug and other scientists developed the high yield variety seeds of wheat.

    Image Source: BCCL

    ​The Green Revolution

    The development marked a transition from traditional agriculture in India to the introduction of high-yielding varieties of seeds and the associated techniques. This led to the green revolution in India and Swaminathan was called the Father of the Green Revolution. (Image courtsey: MSSRF website)

    Image Source: Agencies

    ​A witness of Great Bengal Famine of 1943

    Born in Kumbakonam on August 7, 1925, Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan switched from studying medicine to the agricultural field when he witnessed the Great Bengal Famine of 1943.

    Image Source: ANI

    ​Passion for plants

    Projecting a passion for plants, he did his bachelors in agricultural science and post graduate degree in cytogenetics. He collaborated with researchers and students on a range of issues in basic and applied plant breeding, agricultural research and development and the conservation of natural resources.

    Image Source: BCCL

    ​Held important administrative positions

    He served as the director general of Indian Council of Agricultural Research and later International Rice Research Institute, principal secretary of the ministry of agriculture in 1979, and the president of the International Union of the Conservation of Nature and Natural resources in 1988.

    Image Source: IANS

    ​An ‘awarding’ life

    The Indian government awarded him the Padma Shri in 1967 and Padma Bhushan in 1972 and Padma Vibhushan in 1989. Swaminathan was also given the first World Food Prize in 1987.

    Image Source: BCCL

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  • How to make Chocolate Kaju Katli at home


    Chocolate Kaju Katli Recipe

    Are you a Kaju Katli fan, who also loves chocolates? If yes, then this Chocolate Kaju Katli by Chef Aanal Kotak is a must-try for you. Made with simple ingredients this sweet dish can be easily prepared at home. Tap next to read the simple recipe.

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    Ingredients required

    250 gms cashew nuts, 200 gms powdered sugar, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, water as required, silver varq for garnish, and 100 gms white chocolate

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    Step 1

    First of all, soak cashew nuts in water overnight.

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    Step 2

    Next morning, grind the soaked cashew into a fine paste using a few drops of water.

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    Step 3

    Transfer the paste in a pan, add powdered sugar and mix this before turning on the stove.

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    Step 4

    As it is properly mixed, turn on the stove and mix continuously till the mixture leaves the pan.

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    Step 5

    As mixture gets little thick, add cocoa powder and mix. Further transfer it to a silicone mat and knead it till it becomes soft.

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    Step 6

    Flatten this mixture with spatula first and then roll it gently with roller.

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    Step 7

    Then with double boiler method boil white chocolate and spread a layer of white chocolate on top of kaju katli.

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    Step 8

    Cut the katli into diamond pieces. Garnish with silver varq on top and serve.

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  • Yudh Abhyas 2023: India and US participate in 19th edition of Joint military exerciseindia


    ​Yudh Abhyas 2023 in Alaska

    The joint exercise commenced on September 25 at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, US. (Image credit: Eleventh Airborne)

    Image Source: Agencies

    ​Indian contingent in Alaska

    Indian Army contingent comprising of 350 personnel participate in this edition of the exercise. The lead battalion from Indian side is affiliated to Maratha Light Infantry Regiment.

    Image Source: Agencies

    US contingent in Alaska

    1-24 Infantry Battalion of 1st Brigade Combat Team participate from the US side. ​(Image credit: Eleventh Airborne)

    Image Source: Agencies

    ​Theme of exercise

    Employment of an integrated battle group in mountain/ extreme climatic conditions under Chapter VII of United Nations mandate.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Scope of field training

    It includes validation of Integrated battle groups against hostile forces and integrated surveillance grid at Brigade level, employed airborne elements and force multipliers, validation of logistics and casualty management during operations. (Image credit: Eleventh Airborne)

    Image Source: Agencies

    Drills on combat skills

    The exercise involves exchange of views and best practices in drills on a wide spectrum of combat skills. It facilitate both Armies to mutually learn from each other and further strengthen the bonds between the two armies.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Aim of Yudh Abhyas 2023

    The exercise aims to enhance interoperability in conducting UN peacekeeping operations and will involve tactical drills, discussions, and academic sessions. (Image credit: ​Eleventh Airborne)

    Image Source: Agencies

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  • Freakier Friday star Lindsay Lohan’s promotional styles


    ​Understated Charm

    A plain white bodycon dress with flowing frills at the bottom, looks beautiful on Lindsay, as she walks the NYC premiere launch.

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    Sweetheart Aesthetics

    For the Mexico premiere launch, Lindsay chose the strapless sweetheart neckline hot pink dress, that she carried with grace and elegance.

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    ​Tweed Energy

    A yellow black tweed set radiates happiness paired with absolute cuteness. Lindsay completed the look with a classic black clutch and yellow sandals.

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    Printed Creation

    A beige dress embellished with coloured patterned prints, paired with a small pink clutch, looks other worldly.

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    ​Tassel Wonder

    Lindsay stuns the viewers with a silk spaghetti strap dress, which is decorated with tassels, giving her an ethereal glow, at the Mexico premiere.

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    ​Business Casual

    Polished plaid with a casual pink setting can never be wrong.

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    Floral Prints

    For her upcoming movie, ‘Freakier Friday’, Lindsay channelled all the cuteness and grace with a floral printed white dress.

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    ​Pink Blush

    At the Hollywood premiere for the film, Lindsay wore a stunning pink sparkly gown, with a sweetheart neckline. She completed the look with a beautiful diamond necklace.

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    ​Eccentric Chic

    A black halter neck dress embroidered with reflective mirror style looks beautiful on Lindsay, as she appeared at the Jimmy Fallon Show to promote her upcoming movie, ‘Freakier Friday’.

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  • ​10 diabetes-friendly breakfast ideas that also improve digestion​


    Smart breakfasts for stable sugar and digestion

    Let’s face it, breakfast gets tricky when you’re managing blood sugar and still want something tasty. You’re trying to avoid the sugar crashes, the boring repeats, and the mid-morning hunger pangs, and on top of that, you want something that keeps your gut happy. The good news? You don’t need to choose between healthy and delicious. Here are some clever breakfast ideas that are kind to your blood sugar and your digestion.

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    Moong dal cheela with ajwain

    This savoury crepe made from soaked moong dal is light, high in protein, and surprisingly satisfying. Add ajwain (carom seeds) to the batter and it’s even better for your stomach. Ajwain helps reduce bloating, gas, and indigestion — while moong dal gives you slow-release energy without spiking your sugar levels. Pair it with mint chutney for a herby kick.

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    Chia seed curd bowl

    Chia seeds are little fibre bombs that soak up water and expand, keeping you full for hours. Stir them into homemade curd with a pinch of cinnamon, some grated cucumber, and maybe a spoonful of flaxseed powder. It’s cool, creamy, probiotic-rich, and gentle on your gut. A perfect non-sugary way to start your day.

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    Vegetable poha with flaxseedsPoha is quick, comforting, and naturally light on the stomach — especially if you load it up with veggies like bottle gourd, beans, or spinach. A small sprinkle of roasted flaxseeds adds healthy fats and fibre. This combo keeps your blood sugar stable and supports better bowel movements too.

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    Besan pancake with methi

    Besan (chickpea flour) doesn’t mess with your sugar and digests slowly. Mix it with chopped methi (fenugreek leaves), turmeric, and cumin, and you’ve got a protein-rich, gut-friendly breakfast that tastes great plain or with green chutney. Fenugreek also has blood-sugar-lowering properties — and cumin helps digestion along.

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    Sprouted moong salad with lemon

    If you’re not in the mood to cook, this one’s a lifesaver. Sprouted moong is packed with plant protein, and tossing it with lemon, raw veggies, and a pinch of black salt gives you something tangy, crunchy, and totally blood-sugar-safe. The fermentation during sprouting also improves digestibility.

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    Ragi porridge with stewed apples

    Ragi is one of those grains that just gets the job done. It’s packed with fibre, keeps your sugar steady, and doesn’t cause tummy drama. Cook it into a warm, mushy porridge with water or some thinned-out milk, then throw on some soft stewed apples and a pinch of cinnamon. It feels indulgent but doesn’t spike your glucose. Plus, the warmth is soothing on the gut.

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    Masala buttermilk with veggie upma

    A small bowl of upma made with semolina might sound basic, but adding grated lauki or carrots and serving it with masala buttermilk transforms the meal. The buttermilk cools your gut, aids digestion, and gives you probiotics — while the veggies add bulk and slow down carb absorption.

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    Homemade vegetable idli with chutney

    Soft, steamed, and fermented — idlis are naturally easy on the gut. Add grated veggies like pumpkin or cabbage to the batter for extra fibre, and pair with a chutney made from coconut, coriander, and a bit of roasted chana dal. Fermentation boosts gut bacteria, and this combo won’t cause blood sugar swings.

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    Mashed sweet potato toast

    Ditch the bread and mash up some sweet potato instead. Add a bit of grated ginger, roasted jeera, and a squeeze of lemon — that’s it. Spread it on a moong dal chilla or just eat it with a couple of boiled eggs. It’s filling, tasty, and actually good for your gut, thanks to the fibre sweet potato’s packing. Your stomach bugs will be happy, and so will you.

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    Khichdi with curd and a twist

    Start your day with a soft, lightly spiced moong dal khichdi made with bottle gourd, spinach, or zucchini. Keep it light on the rice or switch it for millet. Top with a spoonful of ghee and have with plain curd on the side. This one soothes the stomach, keeps you full, and doesn’t push your glucose through the roof.

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  • Karnataka Bandh: Normal life in Bengaluru disruptedindia


    What is happening in Karnataka?

    Normal life was affected in several parts of the state including Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Mandya due to the Karnataka bandh called by the pro-Kannada and farmers’ organisations on Friday. Over 40 flights to and from Bengaluru airport were cancelled.

    Image Source: BCCL

    ​​​Why organization announced bandh in Karnataka?​

    The pro-Kannada and farmers’ organisations called the “Bandh”after the Cauvery Regulatory Committee (CWRC) ordered to release of 3000 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu.

    Image Source: ANI

    ​Police detain members of pro-Kannada organisations

    As the protest intensified, the police detained members of pro-Kannada organisations protesting over the Cauvery river water dispute near Attibele in Karnataka.

    Image Source: ANI

    Protest reaches Mandya

    ​Karnataka Bandh in Mandya is nearly total as activists attached to various organisations protested in the heart of the town blocking the main road by forming a human chain. They also condemned a few MPs holding their posters during the protest.

    Image Source: BCCL

    Protests against Tamil Nadu CM Stalin ​

    Novel protest during Karnataka bandh by portraying burial of TN CM MK Stalin in Bengaluru.

    Image Source: BCCL

    ​​BJP protest in Chikmagalur

    BJP activists took part in a bike rally during the Karnataka bandh called against the release of Cauvery water.

    Image Source: PTI

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  • How to make Dal Tadka in a pressure cooker


    Simple Dal Tadka recipe for beginners

    Are you someone who is new to cooking, and wants to start from the basics of Indian cuisine, then we have got your back with this simple recipe, which can be made at home by following some simple steps given below. So, try out this easy recipe and enjoy.

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    Ingredients

    1 ½ cup moong dal, 1 inch ginger grated, 4-5 garlic cloves, 2 whole red chilies, 1 large onion, 2 green chilies, ½ tsp turmeric, 1 tsp red chili powder, 1 tsp coriander powder, ½ tsp jeera powder, 1 pinch hing, 1 handful coriander leaves, 1 bay leaf, salt and ghee.

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    Step 1

    To begin with this easy recipe, wash and soak the dal.

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    Step 2

    Meanwhile, wash and chop vegetables.

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    Step 3

    Take a pressure cooker and add in some ghee/oil followed by whole spices.

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    Step 5

    Then once the onion is golden, add in the ginger, garlic and spices along with the dal, saute for 2-3 minutes and add salt.

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    Step 6

    Then add in 3 cups of water and cover the lid. Pressure cook for 2-3 whistles. Then turn off the heat after releasing the steam.

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    Step 6

    Then add in 3 cups of water and cover the lid. Pressure cook for 2-3 whistles. Then turn off the heat after releasing the steam.

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    Step 7

    Prepare a tempering by adding ghee in a pan followed by whole red chilies, garlic cloves, jeera seeds, let them splutter and then pour it over the dal. Mix well.

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  • Lindsay Lohan’s transformation over the years


    ​Adorable Beginnings

    As a vibrant, freckle-faced kid in The Parent Trap, Lindsay charmed everyone.

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    ​Teen Stardom

    With the success of ‘Mean Girls’, she became a Hollywood icon and every teen’s style crush.

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    ​Style Glow-up

    As she continued to rise in the industry, she swapped with girl-next-door looks with edgy and bold red carpet fashion statements.

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    ​Hair Experiments

    From her iconic red locks to platinum blonde and deep brunette, she tried it all.

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    ​Party Phase

    With the rising status came the late-night parties and wild headlines.

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    ​Visible Changes

    As this continued, fans noticed visible fluctuations in her weight and appearance.

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    ​Fresh Start

    Lindsay began focusing on TV projects, businesses, and a calmer, healthier lifestyle.

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    ​Confident Today

    She’s now glowing with maturity, embracing a balanced life and a comeback in Hollywood.

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  • Mega cleanliness drive campaign launched to celebrate Gandhi Jayantiindia


    ‘Swachh and Swasth Bharat vibe’

    PM Narendra Modi says on X (formerly Twitter) ‘It is all about that Swachh and Swasth Bharat vibe’ as he also got on ground participating in the cleanliness campaign. (Photo credit: Narendra Modi X handle)

    Image Source: Agencies

    Amit Shah gets on field for cleanliness

    Amit Shah, home minister, takes part in the ‘Shramdaan for cleanliness’ initiative as part of the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign in Ahmedabad.

    Image Source: ANI

    Dharmendra Pradhan speaks on ‘shramdaan’

    ‘The country is celebrating ‘Shramdaan for cleanliness’ today. I have come to Delhi Vishwavidyalaya to participate in the cleanliness drive’, says Minister of Education Dharmendra Pradhan.

    Image Source: ANI

    Anurag Thakur gets on the ground for ‘Swacchata’

    Union Minister Anurag Thakur participates in the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign at Baba Balak Nath Temple complex in Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh.

    Image Source: ANI

    Piyush Goyal supports the ‘Swacchhta’ dream

    ‘Mahatma Gandhi had started the cleanliness campaign before independence. He gave us the message that freedom and cleanliness are equally important’, Union Minister Piyush Goyal

    Image Source: ANI

    Cleaning the Parliament (old)

    Mass cleanliness drive organised at Samvidhan Sadan (Old Parliament), in Delhi.

    Image Source: ANI

    CM Yogi Adityanath takes part in the cleanliness drive

    Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath got on the field following PM Narendra Modi’s appeal to take part in ‘sharamdaan’ at 10 am, October 1. (Photo credit: Yogi Adityanath X handle)

    Image Source: Agencies

    CM Eknath Shinde supports ‘Swachhata’ campaign

    Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde interacts with children as he arrives to attend the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ program organized by BMC in Mumbai.

    Image Source: ANI

    Devendra Fadnavis at the cleanliess campaign program

    Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis attends ‘Swachhata Abhiyan’ program in Mumbai.

    Image Source: ANI

    JP Nadda voice support for ‘Swacchta hee seva’ campaign

    ‘BJP is celebrating Swachchta Pakhwada and Swacchta Abhiyan. Many of our workers across the country are participating in the ‘Swacchta Abhiyan”, says BJP national president JP Nadda.

    Image Source: ANI

    Bhupendra Patel cleaning the roads

    Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel participates in ‘Swacchta Abhiyan’ (cleanliness drive) in Ahmedabad.

    Image Source: ANI

    Ashwini Vaishnaw on ground for cleanliness campaign in Haryana’s Gurugram.

    Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said, ‘A ’14 minute clean-up’ protocol has been prepared for the Vande Bharat trains… Today this will start at 35 places and then it will be carried forward later’

    Image Source: ANI

    Dr Jitendra Singh participates in the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign

    During the Independence Day address, the PM called for the cleanliness campaign. A lot of people did not understand it initially but slowly it has become a mass movement: Dr Jitendra Singh Minister of State in the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions of India.

    Image Source: ANI

    Meenakashi Lekhi participates in ‘Sharamdaan’

    ‘We have worked continuously here (Ambedkar Basti) to keep the area clean’, says Union Minister Meenakashi Lekhi, participating in Swacchta hee Seva campaign’

    Image Source: ANI

    Shankar Chaudhary cleans the grounds

    Shankar Chaudhary, speaker, Gujarat Legislative Assembly posted on X (formerly Twitter), ‘under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi Ji, Swachh Bharat has evolved into a ‘Jan Andolan’. (Photo credit: Shankar Chaudhary X handle)

    Image Source: Agencies

    ​Mumbai Division (Western Railway) employees take part in cleanliness drive

    Shramdan for Swachhata Shramdan for Swachhata at August Kranti Railway Residence, Grant Road, Mumbai Division. (Photo credit: DRM – Mumbai Central, WR X handle)

    Image Source: Agencies

    Cleaning the airport authority headquarters

    Remembering the inspirations of Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi, Shramdaan program was organised at the Corporate Headquarters of Airports Authority, New Delhi (Photo credit: Airports Authority of India X handle)

    Image Source: Agencies

    ’14 minute miracle’

    ’14 Minutes Miracle’ to unfold at Howrah Railway Station in West Bengal as Vande Veers suit up for superfast cleaning of Ranchi – Howrah. (Photo credit: Ministry of Railways X handle)

    Image Source: Agencies

    Municipal Corporation Amritsar takes part in the drive for cleanliness

    Amritsar organized a ‘shramdaan’ for the ‘Swachhata’ event at Maharaja Ranjit Singh Chowk, Heritage Street which is inaugurated by MLA Dr Ajay Gupta. (Photo credit: mcamritsar X handle)

    Image Source: Agencies

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  • Festive special: How to make no-sugar Kaju Katli at home


    Easy no-sugar Kaju Katli recipe for beginners

    Festive season is around the corner, and it’s that time of the year, when different types of sweets are prepared to celebrate the monsoon festivals like Teej, Rakhi, Janamashtami and Ganesh Chaturthi. But one thing that can’t be missed from the festive spread is the Kaju Katli, which is the heart and soul of every Indian festival.

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    Why ditch store-bought sweets?

    However, store bought Kaju Katli are often laden with sugar, fats and low quality cashews and adulterants that make it harmful for health. Well, we have got your back with this easy and diabetic-friendly Kaju Katli recipe, which can be made in just a few minutes with all easily available ingredients in the kitchen. So, follow us through this easy recipe and enjoy!

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    Ingredients

    1 cup cashews, 2 tbsp stevia, ½ cup water, 1 tbsp ghee, ½ tsp cardamom powder, silver vark.

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    Step 1

    To begin with this easy recipe, take a pan and add in ghee.

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    Step 2

    Once the ghee is warm enough, add in the cashews and roast them lightly. Transfer to a plate and allow it to cool down.

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    Step 3

    Now, take a grinder and grind the cashews into a smooth powder form.

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    Step 4

    Next, take a pan and add in water to the pan, then add in the stevia and keep stirring along with cardamom powder. Allow this mixture to heat up a bit and turn slightly thick.

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    Step 5

    Then add in the cashew powder gradually, and keep stirring till the mixture releases oil and sticks together. Transfer this to a bowl and let it cool down, then using a rolling pin flatten it.

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    Step 6

    Apply silver varq, cut the sweet in desired shapes and enjoy!

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