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Sun Belt tournament tips off today in Pensacola; Arkansas State plays Thursday The Sun Belt Conference men's basketball tournament is set to tip off today at the Pensacola Bay Center in Florida, with 12 teams vying for a spot in the NCAA Tournament. The event runs through March 13 and features some of the conference's top teams. Arkansas State, which earned a spot in the tournament by finishing seventh in the Sun Belt standings, will take on the eighth-seeded University of Louisiana at Lafayette (ULL) on Thursday. Tip-off is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. CT. The Red Wolves finished the regular season with a record of 18-13 overall and 8-10 in conference play. They have shown significant improvement this season under the guidance of head coach Mike Pelton, who is in his third year at the helm. ULL, meanwhile, wrapped up its regular season with a mark of 17-14 overall and 9-9 in the Sun Belt. The Ragin' Cajuns are looking to bounce back from a tough loss to Georgia Southern in their final regular-season game. The winner of Thursday's matchup between Arkansas State and ULL will advance to the quarterfinals, where they'll face either top-seeded Texas-Arlington or eighth-seeded Coastal Carolina. Other first-round matchups include No. 2 seed Appalachian State against seventh-seeded Louisiana-Monroe, No. 3 seed Georgia Southern taking on sixth-seeded Troy, and No. 4 seed South Alabama facing off against fifth-seeded Old Dominion. The Sun Belt Conference tournament champion earns an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. The event is expected to draw a large crowd of basketball fans from across the region, all hoping to see their favorite team advance to the next round.

BJP Likely to Field Woman Candidate from Maharashtra for Rajya Sabha The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is all set to field a woman candidate from Maharashtra for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections. According to sources, the party has shortlisted a few names and is expected to announce its candidate soon. The move comes as a significant development in the wake of the recent controversy surrounding the appointment of Dr. Droupadi Murmu as the Governor of Maharashtra. Sources close to the development revealed that the BJP is keen on showcasing its commitment to women's empowerment by fielding a woman candidate from the state. This decision is seen as a nod to the party's efforts to promote diversity and inclusion within its ranks. The party has been criticized in the past for not having enough representation of women at the leadership level, but this move is expected to address some of those concerns. The BJP's decision to field a woman candidate from Maharashtra comes at a time when the state is gearing up for crucial elections. The Rajya Sabha elections are scheduled to take place in March, and the party is keen on making its presence felt by fielding a strong candidate. The move is also seen as an attempt to counter the opposition's growing influence in the state. While the names of the potential candidates are yet to be revealed, sources suggest that the party is considering a few women leaders who have been actively involved in the state's politics. The BJP has a significant presence in Maharashtra and has been working hard to strengthen its organization in the state. The development comes as a boost to the morale of women leaders within the party, who have been calling for greater representation and opportunities within the party's ranks. The move is expected to send a strong message about the party's commitment to women's empowerment and inclusion.

Dukes Heading to Pensacola with Confidence The James Madison University football team is heading into the offseason with a renewed sense of confidence after a successful 2022 campaign. The Dukes finished the season with an impressive 8-4 record and a berth in the NCAA Division I FCS playoffs. Despite falling short in their playoff debut, the team's performance has given them momentum going into the offseason. "I think we're feeling really good about where we are right now," said head coach Curt Cignetti. "We had some ups and downs throughout the season, but overall, I'm proud of the guys for how they battled." One key factor in the team's success was their ability to adapt on the fly. The Dukes faced a tough schedule, playing against several top-ranked opponents, but they were able to adjust and make adjustments as needed. "We've always been a team that prides ourselves on being able to adjust to whatever situation we're in," said senior quarterback Cole Johnson. "I think that's really helped us this year." As the Dukes head into the offseason, they'll be looking to build on their momentum. They'll have some key players returning, including Johnson and several defensive starters. "We've got a good nucleus of guys coming back, and I think we're in a great position to take another step forward next year," said Cignetti. The Dukes will also be working on improving their depth and developing some young talent. The team has a strong recruiting class coming in, and they'll be looking to get those players up to speed as quickly as possible. "I think we're in a great spot with our recruiting class this year," said Cignetti. "We've got some guys who are going to come in and compete right away." As the Dukes head into the offseason, they're feeling confident about their prospects for next season. With several key players returning and a strong recruiting class coming in, they'll be looking to take another step forward. "We're excited about where we are right now,...

Maharashtra Rajya Sabha Election: BJP Gives Opportunity to Four New Faces, Also One Woman, but What About Union Minister Ramdas Athawale? The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has decided to give opportunities to four new faces and one woman in the upcoming Maharashtra Rajya Sabha election. The party has been trying to revamp its image by bringing in fresh talent and women's representation. This move is seen as a significant step towards this direction. Sources close to the party revealed that names of four new faces have been finalized, including one woman. The party has been looking for candidates who can connect with the masses and represent the state's interests at the national level. These new faces are expected to bring in fresh energy and ideas to the party. However, the decision has raised eyebrows about the fate of Union Minister Ramdas Athawale, who was expected to contest from Maharashtra. Athawale has been a loyalist of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and his predecessor Devendra Fadnavis. His absence from the list has sparked speculation about whether he is being sidelined or if there's another plan in place. The party's state unit has been working hard to finalize the candidates, considering various factors such as their public image, political acumen, and ability to connect with the people. The names of the four new faces are expected to be officially announced soon. This move by the BJP is seen as an effort to revamp its image in Maharashtra, where it has been facing stiff competition from the Shiv Sena-led Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance. The party hopes that this fresh talent will help it regain its lost ground and strengthen its position ahead of the next Assembly elections. The Maharashtra Rajya Sabha election is scheduled to take place soon, and the BJP's decision to bring in new faces is likely to send shockwaves across the political landscape. As the election season heats up, all eyes are on the BJP to see what other surprises it has in store for ...

JMU Men's Basketball Must Win Six Straight to Secure Sun Belt The James Madison University men's basketball team is facing a crucial stretch of games as they look to secure a spot in the Sun Belt Conference tournament. With just six games remaining, JMU must win all of them to guarantee a postseason berth. Currently sitting at 10-12 overall and 5-6 in conference play, the Dukes are clinging to life in the middle of the pack. A loss in any of their final six games would put their chances of making the tournament in jeopardy, while a winning streak could propel them into contention for a higher seed. "I think our guys understand the importance of these next six games," said JMU head coach Mark Davis. "We've had some ups and downs this season, but we're capable of stringing together a few wins if we focus on our defense and take care of the ball." The Dukes have shown flashes of brilliance throughout the year, including a thrilling overtime win against Georgia Southern earlier this month. However, they've also struggled to find consistency, often alternating between impressive victories and disappointing losses. "We just need to stay focused and stay together," said senior guard Devin Vargas. "We know what we're capable of when we play well, so it's all about executing our game plan and making sure everyone is on the same page." JMU's remaining schedule includes a mix of home and away games against both top-tier opponents and lower-seeded teams. While they'll face stiff competition in each contest, the Dukes are confident that their resilience and determination will ultimately pay off. "We're not going to give up," said Davis. "We've worked too hard to get to this point, and I think our guys are ready to make a push for the tournament."

Supreme Court Orders CBI Probe into DLF's The Primus Garden City Project in Gurugram The Supreme Court has ordered a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the complaints related to DLF's The Primus Garden City project in Gurugram. This move comes after several homebuyers and investors approached the apex court, alleging that they were duped by the real estate giant. In its order, the Supreme Court observed that there are prima facie allegations of fraud and misrepresentation against DLF, which warrants a thorough investigation by the CBI. The court also directed the CBI to submit a status report within six weeks, indicating the progress made in the probe. The complaints against DLF's Primus Garden City project date back to 2013 when several buyers alleged that they were promised luxurious amenities and services, but failed to receive them. Many of these homebuyers claim that they have been left stranded with no access to essential facilities like clubhouses, swimming pools, and parks. The complainants also alleged that DLF had collected substantial amounts from them for these amenities, which the company has failed to deliver. The case was initially taken up by the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC), but since then, several buyers have approached the Supreme Court seeking justice. The Supreme Court's order directing a CBI probe is seen as a significant development in this long-standing controversy. The investigation will not only provide relief to the affected homebuyers but also help to establish the truth about DLF's claims regarding its Primus Garden City project.

Supreme Court Orders CBI Probe Into Homebuyers' Grievances Against DLF Over Gurugram Primus Garden City Project The Supreme Court has ordered a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the grievances of homebuyers against DLF, one of India's largest real estate developers, over its Gurugram Primus Garden City project. The court passed this order while hearing a plea filed by the homebuyers seeking relief in the matter. The petition was filed by around 500 homebuyers who had purchased apartments in the DLF Primus Garden City project, which is located in Gurugram. They alleged that despite receiving possession of their flats, they have not been provided with basic amenities like water supply, electricity, and sewage connections. The homebuyers also claimed that DLF has failed to comply with its commitment to provide these facilities. The Supreme Court took cognizance of the matter after it was directed by a bench comprising Justices L N Rao and A S Oka. The court observed that despite repeated requests from the homebuyers, DLF had not taken any effective steps to redress their grievances. Therefore, the court decided to intervene in the matter and ordered a CBI probe to investigate the allegations levelled against DLF. The order passed by the Supreme Court reads: "We find it necessary to interfere with the matter as despite the repeated requests of the homebuyers, the respondent (DLF) has not taken any effective steps to redress their grievances. We accordingly direct the CBI to conduct an inquiry into the allegations levelled against the respondent and report its findings to this court." The Supreme Court also directed the CBI to submit a preliminary report within two weeks from the date of the order. The court further ordered that if the investigation reveals any irregularities or wrongdoing by DLF, appropriate action would be taken against the company. This development is likely to bring relief to the homebuyers who have been struggling with variou...

Many put their entire life-savings: Supreme Court orders CBI probe into DLF project in Gurgaon The Supreme Court has ordered a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the delayed DLF project in Gurgaon, which has left many homebuyers high and dry. The top court's decision came on a petition filed by a group of flat buyers who had invested their entire life savings in the project. The petitioners alleged that they were promised possession of flats within a certain timeframe but have been waiting for years to get possession. They claimed that despite repeated assurances from the builder, there has been no tangible progress and the delay has caused them immense financial hardship. Many homebuyers had put their entire life savings into the project, leaving them with little or no option but to wait for justice. The Supreme Court bench headed by Justice UU Lalit observed that the petitioners had a prima facie case and ordered the CBI probe to investigate the alleged irregularities in the project. The court also directed the CBI to submit its report within six weeks from the date of filing. The DLF project, which was launched several years ago, has been mired in controversy with homebuyers complaining about delays, poor construction quality and lack of transparency. The project was initially scheduled for completion by 2015 but the deadline kept getting extended, leaving buyers frustrated. The Supreme Court's order is seen as a relief to hundreds of homebuyers who have been fighting for justice against the builder. The CBI probe is expected to unravel the truth behind the delay and alleged irregularities in the project.

Obesity now a public health emergency in India: bariatric surgeon India is facing a severe obesity crisis, with more than 50% of the population suffering from this condition, according to Dr. S.M. Subramanian, a renowned bariatric surgeon. He has been sounding an alarm about the alarming rise in obesity-related diseases and deaths across the country. "We are witnessing an epidemic-like situation where people are dying prematurely due to obesity-related complications like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and certain types of cancer," Dr. Subramanian said during a recent symposium on obesity at Visakhapatnam. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), India has one of the highest rates of obesity in Asia, with approximately 23% of adults being overweight. The situation is more critical in urban areas where sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy eating habits have become rampant. Dr. Subramanian pointed out that while obesity was once considered a problem confined to Western countries, it is now a global issue, affecting both developed and developing nations. "India is no exception," he said. "We are witnessing an unprecedented surge in obesity-related diseases, particularly among young adults." The bariatric surgeon attributed the rise in obesity to factors such as rapid urbanisation, changing lifestyles, and lack of physical activity. He also highlighted the role of food processing industries that promote unhealthy eating habits through high-calorie snacks and sugary drinks. Dr. Subramanian urged policymakers and healthcare professionals to take immediate action to address the crisis. "We need a multi-faceted approach that includes education, awareness campaigns, and policy interventions to curb the alarming rise in obesity," he said. The surgeon also stressed the importance of lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes, regular exercise, and stress management to prevent obesity-related complications. He warned that if left unchecked, obesity ...

World Obesity Day 2026: India's Child Obesity Numbers Soar, Ranks 2nd Worldwide India has taken a step back in the fight against child obesity as new data released on World Obesity Day 2026 reveals that the country now ranks second globally in terms of childhood obesity. According to the latest Atlas report by the International Obesity Task Force (IOTF), India's child obesity numbers have seen a significant spike, making it one of the most alarming health concerns in the country. The report highlights that over 10 million children in India are struggling with obesity, accounting for nearly 15% of the total child population. This staggering figure is only surpassed by the United States, which tops the list with over 13 million obese children. The Indian government has been working tirelessly to address this issue, but the numbers continue to paint a grim picture. Experts point out that childhood obesity in India is not just a matter of physical appearance; it also poses significant risks to overall health and well-being. Obese children are more likely to develop conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and even certain types of cancer as they grow older. Furthermore, the financial burden of treating these complications can be substantial for families and the healthcare system. The IOTF report attributes India's rising child obesity numbers to a combination of factors, including increased consumption of processed foods, reduced physical activity levels due to sedentary lifestyles, and limited access to healthy food options in many parts of the country. The prevalence of childhood obesity varies significantly across different regions, with urban areas like Delhi and Mumbai showing alarmingly high rates. To combat this growing concern, India's government has launched a series of initiatives aimed at promoting healthy eating habits and encouraging physical activity among children. These efforts include introducing school-based programs that emphasize the im...