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  • Mud Trails: G20 planters vanish in daring heistindia


    Unruly act: Women & children fleeing with pots

    Group of women and children seen overturning some white pots dumping the mud on grass and leaving casually with stolen goods.

    Image Source: BCCL

    PWD placed flowering plants to fill gaps on roadside

    PWD had placed 1.6 lakh flowering and lush green potted plants to fill the gaps on central verges and roadsides.

    Image Source: BCCL

    Plants vanish from Bharat Mandapam Road after G20 Summit

    Three weeks after G20 summit plants placed along the road around Bharat Mandapam at Pragati Madan have started disappearing

    Image Source: BCCL

    PWD horticulture wing removes pots

    PWD horticulture wing has taken back almost half of the pots placed for G20 to avoid theft.

    Image Source: BCCL

    ​Absent security staff leaves property vulnerable to theft​

    Most of the security staff present during the G20 summit are absent on the roads leaving the property vulnerable to theft and damage.

    Image Source: BCCL

    ​Plants sent back to nurseries

    Pots that were smaller in size with diameter less than 18cm have been sent back to the nurseries

    Image Source: BCCL

    Key roads during G20 adorned with greenery

    As a part of G20 preparation, plants were placed on key roads including Zakir Hussain Marg, Purana Qila, Mandir Marg and sections of Mathura road.

    Image Source: BCCL

    ​Costly theft troubles PWD

    Theft has been a major problem for PWD to deal with three nozzles of fountains in Delhi Gate stolen last month. Earlier electrical items and decorative lights were reported missing.

    Image Source: BCCL

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  • ​8 Indian street foods that secretly support gut health​


    Gut-friendly Indian street foods

    Street food and gut health in the same sentence? Sounds suspicious, but hear us out. Sure, a lot of street food can mess with your stomach, especially the deep-fried, extra-oily stuff. But not all of it’s bad news. Some Indian street foods actually help your gut out, thanks to natural probiotics, fibre, and ingredients that keep digestion running smooth. So the next time you’re at your favourite thela, you might just be giving your gut a quiet little win. Scroll down to see which street-side bites secretly love your gut back.

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    Fermented tang of kanji vada

    Served in many parts of North India, kanji vada is a genius combination of lentil vadas soaked in fermented mustard-flavoured water. That slightly sour taste? It’s full of gut-friendly bacteria. Kanji naturally ferments at room temperature, making it a traditional probiotic drink. The vadas also bring some fibre and protein into the mix, making this a wholesome option that helps digestion, especially when the weather’s just turning warm.

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    Piping hot idli at a roadside stall

    Soft, fluffy, and naturally fermented, idlis are one of the easiest things your stomach can deal with. They’re light, break down easily, and bring a little boost of good bacteria along the way. Pair them with coconut chutney and a warm spoonful of sambar, and you’ve got a soothing, balanced plate that keeps things comfortable and your gut calm.

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    Pani puri’s unexpected gut boost

    Yes, pani puri isn’t exactly known for hygiene, but the ingredients in the pani actually do your gut some good. Jeera, hing, mint, and tamarind are all natural digestive boosters. Hing helps with gas, tamarind gets things moving, and mint soothes your stomach. Go for vendors who use clean water and freshly made puris for a safer, happier experience.

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    Kala chana chaat that keeps things moving

    Boiled black chickpeas with onions, tomatoes, and masala, this humble chaat is a fibre powerhouse. Chickpeas help keep things regular, keep you feeling full, and give your gut bacteria something to snack on. Add a squeeze of lemon or a pinch of amchur, and you’re also giving your digestion a little boost to break things down more easily.

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    Moong chaat for your gut bugs

    Sprouted moong chaat isn’t just fresh and flavourful, it’s surprisingly good for your gut too. Once sprouted, moong gets softer and gentler on digestion, while also bringing in more roughage. It gives your gut microbes something to thrive on, without the heaviness or gassy aftermath that regular dals can leave behind.

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    Handmade thepla rolls from thela stalls

    When made right, a methi thepla wrapped with some pickle and sabzi becomes an excellent option for your gut. Methi supports digestion and reduces bloating, while whole wheat or millet flour offers prebiotic fibre. The fermentation that sometimes occurs when thepla dough is rested overnight adds a slight sourness that’s good for gut flora.

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    Sweet-sour imli candies and churan

    You’ve probably grabbed these tangy treats outside school or from a local vendor and they’re more than just addictive. Ingredients like tamarind, ajwain, saunf, and black salt aren’t just there for flavour – they actually help with gas, bloating, and that stuffed feeling after a big meal. They give your digestion a little nudge and help things move along smoothly.

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    Steamed momos with spicy chutney

    Momos may not be fully desi, but they’ve earned their spot on the Indian street food scene. The steamed filling, usually cabbage, ginger, garlic, and onions, is light, full of fibre, and easy on the stomach. And that fiery red chutney? It’s usually loaded with garlic and fermented chilli, which can fire up your digestion and help keep your gut bacteria balanced.

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  • 8 Reasons to add red bell pepper to the diet


    This is why red bell peppers are great for health

    For most of us bell peppers are only different in colours, but what we often overlook is the potent properties of these exotic peppers. Well, if you are someone who is new to cooking, then this fiery and flavourful pepper will be a great addition to the daily diet, and here are some compelling reasons that will convince you to add them to the daily diet.

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    Rich in Vitamin C

    ​ Red bell peppers contain more than 150% of your daily Vitamin C needs in just one cup. This vitamin boosts immunity, enhances iron absorption, and promotes collagen production for healthy skin and joints.​​

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    Supports Eye Health

    They are high in beta-carotene and lutein, two antioxidants known to protect vision and reduce the risk of age-related eye conditions like macular degeneration and cataracts.

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    Improves Brain Function

    The vitamin B6 in red bell peppers supports neurotransmitter function and cognitive health, potentially reducing brain fog and boosting mood.

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    Heart-Friendly Food

    Red bell peppers are loaded with antioxidants like lycopene, which may help lower LDL (bad cholesterol) and improve heart health.

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    Aids in Weight Management

    Low in calories but high in fiber and water, red bell peppers keep you full longer, helping curb overeating and support weight loss goals.

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    Anti-Inflammatory Properties

    They contain quercetin and capsanthin, compounds that fight inflammation, making red bell peppers ideal for people with arthritis or chronic inflammation.

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    Cellular Protection

    The rich mix of vitamins A, C, and E helps fight free radical damage, reducing oxidative stress and protecting cells from premature aging.

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    Versatile in Cooking

    Beyond the health perks, red bell peppers add vibrant color, crunch, and natural sweetness to salads, stir-fries, dips, and roasted dishes—enhancing both flavor and nutrition.

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  • How to make protein-rich Quinoa Cheela for breakfast


    Quinoa Cheela for breakfast Recipe

    Quinoa is a nutrient-dense grain, which is a rich source of protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. Naturally gluten-free and high in fiber, iron, and magnesium, it supports digestion, muscle repair, and sustained energy as well. Here’s a simple cheela recipe made with quinoa that one can try at home.

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    Ingredients required

    1 cup cooked quinoa, ½ cup oats flour, 1 tbsp curd, 1 tbsp flaxseed powder, ½ cup water, ½ tsp baking powder, salt to taste, 2 tbsp chopped onion, 1 green chili, 2 tbsp beetroot, 2 tbsp carrot, 1/4 tsp turmeric, and coriander leaves

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    Step 1

    In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, flour, flax seeds, curd and baking powder. Give it a gentle mix.

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    Step 2

    To this, add water to form a thick but pourable batter.

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    Step 3

    Add the chopped veggies and mix well again.

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    Step 4

    Let it rest for 5–10 minutes to hydrate and fluff up.

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    Step 5

    Heat a non-stick or cast iron pan. Lightly grease with oil or ghee. Pour a ladle of batter and spread gently into a circle.

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    Step 6

    Cook on medium flame for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.

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    Step 7

    Serve hot with green chutney or condiment of your choice.

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  • A struggle to breathe: India's most polluted citiesindia


    The basis of the pollution report

    The report, by Climate Trends and Respirer Living Sciences, analyzed government PM2.5 data from October 1, 2022, to September 30, 2023, focusing on cities in the National Clean Air Programme, with a goal of reducing particulate matter by 40% by 2026.

    Image Source: Reuters

    The clean havens

    According to the analysis, Aizawl and Mizoram have India’s cleanest air with a PM2.5 level of only 11.1 micrograms per cubic meter.

    Image Source: IANS

    The seven most polluted cities

    As per the reports, the top seven polluted cities namely are Delhi, Patna, Muzaffarpur, Faridabad, Noida, Ghaziabad, and Meerut which are all part of the Indo-Gangetic Plains.​

    Image Source: IANS

    Delhi at top

    Delhi is the most polluted city with particulate matter (PM)2.5 concentration of 100.1 micrograms per cubic metre, which is three times the government’s safe limit as per the report

    Image Source: ANI

    Patna: 2nd most polluted city

    Patna was said to the second most polluted city with an average PM2.5 concentration of 99.7 micrograms per cubic meter, saw a 24 percent deterioration in air quality compared to the previous year, as per the analysis.

    Image Source: PTI

    3. Muzzafarpur, Bihar

    With almost 9% air quality deterioration, Muzzafarpur, Bihar stands as third most polluted city with a PM2.5 concentration of 95.4 micrograms per cubic meter

    Image Source: IANSHINDI

    4. Faridabad, Harayana

    With a 2.5 PM concentration of 89 micrograms per cubic meter, Faridabad city in Haryana is the 4th most polluted.

    Image Source: PTI

    5. Noida, Uttar Pradesh

    Noida is the 5th most polluted state with PM 2.5 concentration of 79.1 micrograms per cubic meter.

    Image Source: IANS

    6. Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh

    With a PM2.5 concentration of 78.3 micrograms per cubic meter, Ghaziabad is India’s 6th most polluted city.

    Image Source: PTI

    7. Meerut Uttar Pradesh

    Meerut is the 7th most polluted city as per the analysis with PM2.5 concentration of 76.9 micrograms per cubic meter.

    Image Source: IANS

    8. Nalbari, Assam

    Nalbari city in Assam is the 8th most polluted city of India with PM2.5 concentration of 100.1 micrograms per cubic meter.

    Image Source: IANS

    9. Asansol, West Bengal

    West Bengal’s Asansol is the 9th most polluted city with PM2.5 concentration of 74 micrograms per cubic meter.

    Image Source: PTI

    10. Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

    Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh is the 10th most pollluted city of India with PM2.5 concentration of 71.8 micrograms per cubic meter.

    Image Source: ANI

    Slight positive: overall reduction in pollution

    The analysts did note that PM2.5 concentration in Delhi, Faridabad, Noida, Ghaziabad and Meerut reduced by 4 percent, 12 percent, 12 percent, 25 percent and 11 percent, respectively, during the study period.

    Image Source: IANS

    Need for reforms

    Aarti Khosla, director of Climate Trends was quoted by PTI saying, ​”There is a need for a scientific approach to address air quality issues in a sustained manner through an airshed approach,”

    Image Source: IANS

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  • Indian, US Army carry out joint training in Alaska, during exercise Yudh Abhyasindia


    Exercise ‘Yudh Abhyas’

    The Indian and US Armies snipers carried out joint training at Alaska before closing exercise ‘Yudh Abhyas.’​

    Image Source: Agencies

    Indian Ambassador visited the exercise area

    ​Indian ambassador to the US Taranjit Singh Sandhu visited the exercise area in Alaska for the closing ceremony of the exercise.​

    Image Source: Agencies

    Delightful experience

    Ambassador Sandhu expressed his pleasure at observing the activities of Indian Army and US Army soldiers during exercise Yudh Abhyas in Alaska.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Joint tactical exercise

    Last week, the Indian and US Armies carried out a joint tactical exercise in Alaska as part of the ongoing exercise Yudh Abhyas.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Joint venture

    The 19th edition of exercise ‘Yudh Abhyas’ is being conducted from September 25th to October 8th in Fort Wainwright, Alaska, USA. It is an annual exercise conducted jointly by the Indian Army and the United States Army.

    Image Source: Agencies

    350 Indian Army personnel participating

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

    Image Source: Agencies

    Braving Arctic conditions for drills

    The two armies practised high-angle rescue & casualty evacuation drills in the sub-zero Arctic conditions during the excercise. The soldiers also conducted a live fire training exercise.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Theme of the exercise

    The theme of the exercise is ‘Employment of an Integrated Battle Group in Mountain/ Extreme Climatic Conditions’ under Chapter VII of the United Nations mandate.

    Image Source: Agencies

    India thanks US Army for accommodating the troops

    Ambassador Sandhu expressed gratitude to the US Army and the 11th Airborne Division for accommodating the troops. The 11th Airborne Division is a US Army airborne unit located in Alaska.

    Image Source: Agencies

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  • Going underground to keep Mumbai moving while avoiding surface tensionindia


    SUBTERRANEAN SHIFT​

    ​City and vicinity have 11 tunnel-based projects in the making

    Image Source: BCCL

    WIDE RANGE​

    Underground projects include east-west corridors, rail systems like metro and bullet train

    Image Source: BCCL

    NO JAMS

    In a city with 45 lakh vehicles, going underground avoids traffic jams

    Image Source: BCCL

    EXPENSE WORTH IT

    A little more expensive than surface works, but it avoids delays

    Image Source: BCCL

    COASTAL ROAD TWIN WONDERS

    Country’s first undersea twin tunnels are getting finishing touches

    Image Source: BCCL

    UNDERPASSES

    Tenders invited for four underpasses on Western Express Highway and Eastern Express Highway

    Image Source: BCCL

    ECO BENEFIT

    Going underground means life and environment on surface is not disturbed

    Image Source: BCCL

    BOON FOR SGNP

    Borivli-Thane tunnel will pass under eco-sensitive Sanjay Gandhi National Park

    Image Source: BCCL

    METRO 11 REALIGNED

    Major underground project will now also connect Byculla, Fort and Gateway of India

    Image Source: BCCL

    HARBOUR LINE EXTENSION

    A tunnel will help with the project from Panvel to Karjat

    Image Source: BCCL

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