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Prashant Kishor: The ‘Spoiler’ in Bihar’s Next Election?

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Prashant Kishor: The ‘Spoiler’ in Bihar’s Next Election?

NEW DELHI: Poll strategist-turned-politician Prashant Kishor is emerging as the potential “chief ministerial face of ‘others'” in Bihar and is set to play the role of a major spoiler in the state’s next election, according to election analyst Amitabh Tiwari.

​Tiwari said that the non-NDA, non-Mahagathbandhan parties in Bihar already command a healthy vote share. He argues that Kishor’s entry will likely impact the vote shares of these other parties more than it will affect the two major coalitions, the NDA and the Mahagathbandhan.

​While Kishor’s “Jan Suraaj” campaign is gaining traction among the youth, the educated middle class, and a section of the poor, Tiwari believes he is not likely to win. Instead, he will primarily act as a spoiler, similar to the role the LJP played in the 2020 election.

​The analyst highlighted the critical nature of small vote shifts in Bihar’s tight electoral races. “There were 83 seats where the victory margin was less than or equal to 5% (of the total votes) in 2020. 37 were won by the NDA, 38 by the Mahagathbandhan, and seven by others,” Tiwari pointed out.

​”If, on these seats, he (Kishor) gets a vote share of 5 per cent or more, he is likely to damage the coalitions.”

​Tiwari concluded with a clear prediction: Kishor’s performance will directly dictate the nature of the election. “The better Jan Suraaj does, the closer the election will be; the worse he does, the more one-sided the election is likely to be.”

Global Hit ‘Dude’ Confirms Netflix Premiere: Mamitha Baiju, Pradeep Ranganathan’s Rom-Com Lands a November Streaming Date

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Global Hit ‘Dude’ Confirms Netflix Premiere: Mamitha Baiju, Pradeep Ranganathan’s Rom-Com Lands a November Streaming Date

The wait is nearly over for fans of the Tamil blockbuster Dude. The romantic comedy, starring Pradeep Ranganathan and Mamitha Baiju, has officially been acquired by Netflix for its post-theatrical streaming release and is tentatively scheduled to premiere around November 14, 2025.

​The film, which marked the directorial debut of Keerthiswaran, has been an undisputed box-office champion, successfully crossing the ₹100 crore mark worldwide to become one of the biggest Tamil hits of 2025. Its blend of youthful humour, emotional complexity, and relatable characters struck a chord with audiences across age groups.

​Following its massively successful theatrical run, the streaming rights were secured by the global giant Netflix. The film is expected to be made available in multiple languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada. While a Hindi-dubbed version is also anticipated, it may arrive on the platform slightly later than the regional releases.

​Dude explores the journey of the carefree Dude Agan, played by Pradeep Ranganathan, as he navigates a complicated love triangle that leads to confusion, heartbreak, and ultimately, self-discovery. With the confirmed Netflix premiere, a massive online audience is expected to tune in, further cementing Pradeep Ranganathan’s status as a dependable star in South Indian cinema.

🇧🇷 Ancelotti Snubs Neymar for Brazil Friendlies, Hands Debut Call-Up to Juba

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🇧🇷 Ancelotti Snubs Neymar for Brazil Friendlies, Hands Debut Call-Up to Juba

​RIO DE JANEIRO — Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has opted for an injection of fresh talent and experienced utility in his latest squad, confirming the exclusion of superstar Neymar Jr. for the upcoming friendlies against Senegal and Tunisia. The omission, while expected due to the forward’s recent return from injury, signals Ancelotti’s laser-focus on building a fit and cohesive team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

​The headline inclusion is the uncapped left-back Luciano Juba of EC Bahia. The 26-year-old, who can also feature in central midfield, was rewarded for his impressive form in the Brazilian Serie A.

​”He has a very important technical profile,” Ancelotti told a news conference in Rio de Janeiro. “He has the ability to play inside, and he’s been playing well with Bahia. He deserves this opportunity so that we can take a closer look at him.”

​Key Recalls and Casemiro Backup

​Joining the squad are two significant recalls: Al-Ittihad defensive midfielder Fabinho and Palmeiras forward Vitor Roque.

​Ancelotti confirmed that the experienced 32-year-old Fabinho, who last featured at the 2022 World Cup, is being eyed as a versatile backup for Manchester United’s Casemiro.

​”We’d like to have an option that can fit with Casemiro’s characteristics,” the Italian explained. “He has a different defensive profile to Casemiro, and also experience. He’s a player who has played at a very high level in Europe.”

​Meanwhile, 20-year-old striker Vitor Roque, who made a move to Palmeiras from Barcelona in February, has been rewarded for his prolific form, netting 17 goals and providing five assists across all competitions.

​Neymar Absence Continues

​As anticipated, the squad features no place for Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, Neymar. The 33-year-old Santos forward recently returned to action after recovering from his latest injury setback, featuring in a 1-1 draw with Fortaleza on Saturday.

​Neymar has not represented the Seleção since suffering a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October 2023. Ancelotti has previously stressed that only players in top physical condition will be considered for his World Cup plans.

​Brazil will face Senegal at London’s Emirates Stadium on November 15, followed by a match against Tunisia at the Pierre-Mauroy Stadium in Lille three days later. These fixtures represent one of Ancelotti’s final opportunities to experiment before the World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada next year.

Kerala lottery Sthree Sakthi SS-492 result today 4/11/2025: ₹1 cr first prize for SE 526612 | Check complete list

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Kerala lottery Sthree Sakthi SS-492 result today 4/11/2025: ₹1 cr first prize for SE 526612 | Check complete list

Thiruvananthapuram, November 4, 2025 — The Directorate of State Lotteries, Government of Kerala, has announced the results for the Sthree Sakthi (SS-492) Lottery draw, held today, November 4, 2025, at Gorky Bhavan in Thiruvananthapuram.

​The grand first prize of ₹1 Crore (Rs 10,000,000) has been awarded to ticket number SE 526612, which was sold in the Mananthavady region.

​The second major prize of ₹30 Lakh (Rs 3,000,000) went to ticket SF 598647 (Malappuram), and the third prize of ₹5 Lakh (Rs 500,000) was won by ticket SM 803879 (Ernakulam).

​Winners are strongly advised to verify their numbers against the official Kerala Government Gazette publication and submit their winning tickets within 90 days.

​Sthree Sakthi SS-492 Major Winners

​1st Prize (₹1,00,00,000)

​SE 526612

​Consolation Prize (₹5,000)

​SA 526612, SB 526612, SC 526612, SD 526612, SF 526612, SG 526612, SH 526612, SJ 526612, SK 526612, SL 526612, SM 526612

​2nd Prize (₹30,00,000)

​SF 598647

​3rd Prize (₹5,00,000)

​SM 803879

​Full Sthree Sakthi SS-492 Winners List by Last Four Digits

​4th Prize (₹5,000)

​0693, 1105, 1209, 2918, 3327, 3625, 3800, 4105, 4127, 4227, 4684, 5936, 6181, 7184, 8456, 8482, 8836, 9240, 9714

​5th Prize (₹2,000)

​5784, 5862, 6042, 9325, 9851, 9893

​6th Prize (₹1,000)

​0432, 1832, 1949, 2780, 2812, 3341, 3517, 3831, 4386, 4568, 4840, 5039, 5042, 5168, 5497, 5699, 6356, 7191, 7249, 8285, 8715, 8951, 9001, 9333, 9926

​7th Prize (₹500)

​0005, 0057, 0102, 0300, 0448, 0661, 0859, 1194, 1412, 1554, 1733, 1842, 1998, 2151, 2168, 2233, 2440, 2909, 3003, 3007, 3080, 3386, 3431, 3513, 3643, 3765, 3781, 4045, 4175, 4205, 4301, 4308, 4466, 4561, 4577, 4585, 4714, 4949, 5073, 5131, 5140, 5370, 5669, 5827, 5981, 6006, 6060, 6284, 6318, 6351, 6421, 6570, 6579, 6652, 6802, 6931, 7074, 7130, 7196, 7261, 7576, 7655, 7774, 7933, 8277, 8303, 8578, 8687, 8734, 8995, 9221, 9257, 9315, 9468, 9742, 9866

​8th Prize (₹200)

​0327, 0356, 0477, 0646, 0750, 0909, 0942, 1034, 1096, 1124, 1393, 1504, 1667, 1698, 1714, 1746, 1773, 1919, 2022, 2035, 2190, 2288, 2357, 2496, 2531, 2652, 2992, 3105, 3115, 3143, 3214, 3266, 3803, 3894, 3983, 4033, 4189, 4312, 4315, 4391, 4571, 4781, 4845, 4967, 5009, 5136, 5179, 5483, 5499, 5664, 5791, 5951, 6000, 6117, 6223, 6237, 6277, 6446, 6525, 6806, 6939, 7154, 7455, 7563, 7582, 7641, 7770, 7802, 7818, 7870, 7946, 7954, 8189, 8385, 8506, 8510, 8695, 8773, 8825, 8899, 8966, 9151, 9170, 9506, 9532, 9539, 9617, 9643, 9679, 9788

​9th Prize (₹100)

​0147, 0295, 0303, 0309, 0362, 0392, 0406, 0472, 0493, 0521, 0542, 0561, 0596, 0637, 0779, 0809, 0923, 1037, 1104, 1150, 1319, 1340, 1625, 1703, 1774, 1833, 1893, 2032, 2056, 2061, 2082, 2101, 2212, 2312, 2347, 2383, 2435, 2472, 2505, 2802, 2946, 3242, 3330, 3343, 3402, 3404, 3415, 3615, 3649, 3659, 3692, 3766, 3924, 3925, 3987, 4276, 4282, 4348, 4392, 4399, 4756, 4833, 4918, 4992, 5037, 5069, 5083, 5113, 5124, 5133, 5159, 5219, 5223, 5226, 5358, 5381, 5423, 5643, 5662, 5667, 5764, 5788, 5804, 5820, 5857, 5975, 5988, 6123, 6145, 6163, 6173, 6232, 6441, 6465, 6589, 6596, 6624, 6687, 6736, 6801, 6910, 7057, 7109, 7135, 7168, 7188, 7216, 7227, 7424, 7560, 7580, 7611, 7714, 7737, 7762, 7777, 7886, 8107, 8236, 8284, 8308, 8325, 8401, 8420, 8445, 8483, 8518, 8524, 8620, 8622, 8673, 8720, 8729, 8731, 8737, 8750, 8776, 8880, 9216, 9419, 9429, 9500, 9559, 9599, 9664, 9730, 9821, 9882, 9948, 9984

Kerala’s Education Budget Crisis: Is the State Starving its Schools and Universities?

South India Pulse
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Kerala’s Education Budget Crisis: Is the State Starving its Schools and Universities?

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala, often lauded for its high literacy rates, is facing sharp criticism regarding its fiscal commitment to the education sector after a revelation by a top bureaucrat exposed a shockingly low annual capital budget allocation.

​K.M. Abraham, Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister and CEO of KIIFB (Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board), disclosed at The Indian Express ‘Dialogue’ event that the state spends a meagre ₹646 crore to ₹650 crore annually from the capital budget across all six segments of the education system. This encompasses Primary, Secondary, Higher Secondary, College Education, University Education, and Sports.

​The revelation has immediately triggered a debate, with critics accusing the State Finance Department of “discrimination” against the crucial education sector. The figure of just ₹650 crore for capital expenditure stands in stark contrast to the development projects Abraham himself claims KIIFB is implementing in the same sector, which are valued at approximately ₹8,000 crore.

​The contrast between the state’s direct capital budget allocation and the projected project value through a special purpose vehicle like KIIFB highlights a potential systemic issue in how the state prioritizes and funds the foundational development of its education infrastructure. The controversy is putting pressure on the government to justify the minimal direct capital outlay for such a vital sector.

Meghalaya Opens the Skies: Paragliding Tourism Set to Soar Above the Clouds, Promising Adventure and Jobs

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Meghalaya Opens the Skies: Paragliding Tourism Set to Soar Above the Clouds, Promising Adventure and Jobs

​Meghalaya, the “Abode of Clouds,” is set to add a thrilling new dimension to its tourism portfolio with the official launch of paragliding operations. The initiative, spearheaded by the Meghalaya Paragliding Association (MPA), promises tourists and locals the opportunity to glide over the state’s famously picturesque hills, valleys, and waterfalls.

The state is naturally suited for the sport, boasting the steep hills and broad valleys that create ideal wind conditions. Organisers are confident that Meghalaya will quickly become one of India’s top paragliding destinations, offering dramatic aerial views of the layered greenery and misty landscapes.

​Key Launch Sites and Grand Opening

​The MPA has identified Rapleng and Mawlyndep as the initial promising launch sites, chosen for their optimal elevation and steady wind flow, making them suitable for both recreational flights and training.

​To formally inaugurate the activity, the MPA plans to host a major paragliding competition in Shillong later this year. The event is expected to attract experienced pilots from across the nation, including participants from the Indian Army and Air Force, signalling Meghalaya’s entry into the national adventure sports circuit.

​Focus on Safety and Local Empowerment

​Safety has been established as the paramount concern. The MPA has mandated strict safety protocols, including the use of certified and regularly maintained equipment, and a ground support team that maintains continuous radio contact with pilots during flights.

​Beyond tourism, the initiative has a strong focus on local capacity building. The association plans to train young residents of Meghalaya as certified pilots and instructors. By developing this local expertise, the MPA aims to create sustainable livelihoods and ensure the long-term viability of the sport, offering employment opportunities in guiding, instruction, and related services.

​This move is expected to significantly diversify Meghalaya’s appeal beyond its traditional eco-tourism and waterfall trails, attracting a new segment of adventure-seeking tourists and providing a substantial boost to rural economies. The MPA is currently seeking necessary government assistance and sponsorships to cover infrastructure and equipment costs, ensuring the adventure remains accessible to all visitors.

World Cup Queens Rewarded Royally: Diamond Jewellery, Solar Panels, and Over ₹90 Crore Payout for India’s Cricket Champions

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World Cup Queens Rewarded Royally: Diamond Jewellery, Solar Panels, and Over ₹90 Crore Payout for India’s Cricket Champions

New Delhi: Following their historic maiden ICC Women’s World Cup title, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian women’s cricket team is being celebrated with a reward package fit for champions, combining unprecedented financial payouts with unique, lasting personal gifts.

​The total financial incentive for the victorious squad surpasses ₹90.78 crore, a figure that underscores the rapid growth and rising global stature of the women’s game. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a massive reward of ₹51 crore for the World Champions. This is significantly boosted by the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) prize money of ₹39.78 crore, which represents an astonishing 297% increase from the reward pool of the 2022 edition.

​Adding a touch of royalty and a nod to sustainability, Surat-based industrialist and Rajya Sabha member Govind Dholakia, founder and chairman emeritus of Shree Ramkrishna Exports (SRK), has proposed a special and lavish gesture. Every member of the triumphant squad is set to receive bespoke, handcrafted natural diamond jewellery—a token of appreciation for their “brilliance and resilience.”

​In a unique commitment to ‘people and the planet,’ Dholakia will also gift rooftop solar panels for the homes of all the players. This move, he noted, is to ensure “the light they bring to our nation continues to shine in their own lives as well.”

​The wave of national pride and celebration continues following the team’s decisive 52-run victory over South Africa in the final at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. The squad is currently heading to New Delhi, where they are expected to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, capping off an extraordinary, history-making journey.

OpenAI Drops Game-Changer: Get ChatGPT Go Free for 12 Months in India – Access GPT-5 and Advanced AI Features

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OpenAI Drops Game-Changer: Get ChatGPT Go Free for 12 Months in India – Access GPT-5 and Advanced AI Features

NEW DELHI, India — In a major push into one of the world’s fastest-growing tech markets, OpenAI has announced a groundbreaking promotion for users in India: the ChatGPT Go subscription will be available for free for a full 12 months.

​The limited-time offer, which kicked off on November 4, 2025, is set to open the doors to advanced AI capabilities for millions. ChatGPT Go is the company’s mid-tier subscription, packed with features typically restricted to paid users.

​What’s Included in the Free Deal?

​The 12-month promotional subscription grants users access to premium tools, including:

  • ​GPT-5: Extended access to OpenAI’s flagship, most powerful model.
  • ​Advanced Image Generation: Enhanced capabilities for creating AI-driven images.
  • ​Enhanced Data Analysis: Tools for file uploads, document analysis, and data exploration.
  • ​Custom GPTs: The ability to create, edit, and use personalized AI tools.

​Who Is Eligible and How to Redeem

​The promotion is available to users physically located in India and includes new ChatGPT sign-ups, current free-plan users, and existing ChatGPT Go subscribers (with automatic extensions planned for most). Users on higher-tier plans (like Plus or Pro) must first cancel their subscription and wait for their current billing cycle to end before they can become eligible.

​The only catch is a crucial one: all users must add a payment method—either a credit card or UPI—to enroll. However, no subscription fees will be charged during the 12-month period, although UPI users may see a temporary, refundable charge of ₹1 per billing cycle for processing purposes.

​Users can redeem the offer immediately via the ChatGPT website, the Android app (Google Play), or soon through the iOS App Store. After the promotional year concludes, the subscription will automatically revert to the standard monthly rate of ₹399 unless cancelled by the user.

Tragedy Strikes: 4 Killed, Several Injured in Bilaspur Passenger-Goods Train Collision

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Tragedy Strikes: 4 Killed, Several Injured in Bilaspur Passenger-Goods Train Collision

A tragic railway accident unfolded near Bilaspur station in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday afternoon, resulting in the deaths of four people and leaving several others injured. A coach of a MEMU (Mainline Electric Multiple Unit) passenger train collided with a stationary goods train at approximately 4:00 PM, causing significant wreckage and prompting a massive rescue operation.

​Railway officials confirmed the incident, stating that a passenger coach violently struck the goods train. Initial reports indicate a high number of casualties, with four fatalities confirmed. While the exact number of injured persons is still being tallied, all available railway and emergency resources have been mobilized to the site to ensure the injured receive immediate medical treatment.

​Images from the scene show the devastating impact, with one passenger coach severely mangled and lifted atop the goods train, highlighting the force of the collision. Police and rescue personnel were visible on the tracks, working to clear the debris and assist victims. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the precise cause of the accident.

Airport VIP Room Showdown: Kerala Chief Secretary Snubbed by CRPF Ahead of VP’s Arrival

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Airport VIP Room Showdown: Kerala Chief Secretary Snubbed by CRPF Ahead of VP’s Arrival

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A major protocol dispute erupted at the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport after the Kerala Chief Secretary, Dr. A. Jayathilak, and his team were allegedly denied access to the VIP room by Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel on security duty. The incident occurred while the senior officials were waiting to receive the visiting Vice President of India.

​The high-ranking state delegation, including the Chief Secretary, arrived at the airport as part of the official contingent for the Vice President’s reception ceremony. In line with established protocol, officials requested the CRPF, who were managing the security arrangements, to open the VIP waiting room.

​However, the CRPF members reportedly refused to grant permission, forcing the Chief Secretary and his accompanying officials to wait outside the facility for a significant period. State protocol traditionally mandates that the VIP room be made available to elected representatives and top officials gathered to receive visiting dignitaries.

​The deadlock persisted until moments before Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal, Member of Parliament John Brittas, and Thiruvananthapuram Mayor Arya Rajendran arrived at the airport. Only then did the CRPF finally agree to unlock the VIP room.

​Following the resolution, the Minister, Mayor, MP, and the state officials proceeded to receive the Vice President.

​In a notable turn of events later in the day, when the Vice President returned to the airport after his engagement and was preparing for departure, Chief Secretary Dr. Jayathilak was not present to see him off. Mayor Arya Rajendran was, however, present for the farewell. The initial protocol lapse involving the VIP room has sparked discussions about security mandates and inter-departmental cooperation during high-profile official visits.

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