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Exclusive | From ‘dying from spice’ to ‘iPhone revolt’ and ‘Gukesh mode’: Dutch No.1 Anish Giri opens box of not-quite-chess tales | Chess News

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Exclusive | From 'dying from spice' to 'iPhone revolt' and 'Gukesh mode': Dutch No.1 Anish Giri opens box of not-quite-chess tales
Anish Giri at the Global Chess League (GCL Photo)

NEW DELHI: Coming into the second edition of the Global Chess League (GCL) last year in October, the current Dutch No. 1 Anish Giri had a turbulent time. In the span of one month, his ratings dropped drastically from 2746 to 2724.To put things into perspective, the last time his rating had dipped this low was all the way back in December 2012, when he briefly touched 2720. This time, though, the slide hurt more: for the first time in ten years, Giri had tumbled out of the world’s top 20.

Anish Giri Exclusive: FIDE World Cup in Goa, Candidates 2026 prep, GCL stories, and more

The drop demanded a turnaround. Oddly enough, it arrived not in the old-school halls of classical chess but in a fledgling event trying to plant its flag: the Global Chess League (GCL).“I came in with really low confidence,” Giri told TimesofIndia.com in an exclusive chat. “And then I saw the lineup; I was on the icon board, facing the absolute best. My team was super strong, and I felt like the weakest link at that moment. I genuinely worried I’d pull them down. GCL ended up being one of the big turning points for me.”

The spice wars of London

Giri can’t keep his laughter away when asked about the memories that immediately spring up. Not the time scramble against Alireza Firouzja. Not the nail-biting final. But… food.“One thing that now comes to mind was with the food,” he revealed.“Because sometimes you would play during the day, and it was like lunchtime. We would go to the game and stay there for many hours, and we could get hungry there. So we would get some food arranged for us.

Anish Giri in the middle during season 2 (GCL Photo)

“It was always a challenge to try to get a good level of spice. There were always these arguments between the team members. Some are saying this is not spicy. Some are saying this is crazy spicy. Some are saying I’m dying from how hot it is.”With the second edition of GCL held in London, traffic became part of the routine, too.“It was kind of an interesting experience,” he said. “Just overall with the team, how we would travel through London to the playing hall and the traffic of London. Sometimes you get stuck in there, and it was good vibes.”

The Great iPhone Revolt (almost)

Among all the stories, one that stands out as instant GCL folklore is the attempted “iPhone mutiny”.Before the season even began, PBG Alaskan Knights, Giri’s previous team, had promised performance-based rewards. But before they were handed out, the players began joking in the team WhatsApp group.

Anish Giri looks at PBG Alaskan Knights captain Abhijit Kunte (GCL Photo)

“There was a running joke between the team members behind the back of our team captain that we are going to refuse to show up if we don’t get the iPhone promised,” Giri remembered. “So we had this thing that we’re going to revolt as players. And if they don’t give us the iPhone, we are not coming to the game.”Despite the Knights settling for a runners-up finish, the gifts did arrive.“Of course, it was a joke. But we finally did get the iPhones. So I don’t know how much of a joke it was,” Giri added with a grin.

The quiet side of elite chess players

One stereotype about chess players has existed for generations: they live in their heads. They don’t talk much.Giri doesn’t deny it.“It depends on players and depends on the setting,” the 31-year-old Grandmaster told this website. “Different tournaments, different moods, different stages of career. I knew some players that at certain periods, we were very friendly with each other, then for some reason, we were less friendly for a period. It is complex in that sense.”Team spirit is something footballers or basketball players are raised with; chess players, on the other hand, spend most of their lives fighting alone at a board.“In chess, team events are occasionally there, and usually most events are individual,” he explained. “So you are not really taught team spirit or team bonding. In chess, it’s not common. And occasionally in a team event, you do miss the whole team bonding.”

Nodirbek Abdusattorov standing on right (GCL Photo)

Giri cited Nodirbek Abdusattorov as an example from last season’s GCL.“He has his own very strict routine: when he eats, what he eats, where he eats. I think we almost never ate together, like never on the same table, as far as I can remember. And that’s fine. He stays in that tournament mode, in that zone,” he added.

The ‘D Gukesh modes’

One of the funniest observations Giri made is about players who have “modes”, different personas depending on whether they are playing a tournament or attending, say, a friend’s wedding.And the best example, according to him, is the current World Chess Champion D Gukesh.“Gukesh was not in my team (in the last GCL), but I’ve been with him on many different occasions,” he said. “During tournaments, after tournaments, I was with him at Vidit’s wedding as well.”“And it’s like different people every time. When Gukesh is at Vidit’s wedding, he is a different person than when he is playing the second round of Wijk aan Zee.”He laughed before adding, “Some people have this very, very strong game mode.”Giri’s success on the board during GCL 2024, though, wasn’t a coincidence. After months of self-doubt and worrying about his form, the league seemed to snap him out of the spiral.His rise back into the world’s top 10 and the qualification for Candidates 2026 with an authoritative win at the FIDE Grand Swiss has reaffirmed him as one of the most consistent elite players currently.Now, fast forward to season three of GCL, scheduled to begin at The Royal Opera House from December 14 to 23.The Dutch No. 1 will turn up wearing the Alpine SG Pipers jersey this time, but his goals remain the same.With the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championships beginning right after GCL in Doha, he sees the league as the perfect warm-up.“I’ve been focusing fully on classical the last few tournaments,” he says. “There’s going to be some change in pace, so I will need to warm up. I am expecting maybe a turbulent start in GCL, but I’m gonna try to warm up for the rapid and blitz again.”“After GCL, there will be World Rapid and Blitz in Doha as well. So now I have two events in a row, which are rapid and blitz. That’s a shift in mindset and requires a little different type of play,” he chuckled.





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18 Gift Ideas for Health Enthusiasts and Beginners

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18 Gift Ideas for Health Enthusiasts and Beginners

‘Tis the season to be healthy and happy! As the holiday festivities kick into high gear, why not spread some wellness cheer with thoughtful gifts that promote a healthy lifestyle and support weight loss goals?

Whether you’re shopping for health-conscious loved ones or seeking inspiration for your own wish list, we’ve got you covered.

From practical tools to delicious treats, here are some fantastic gift ideas that will bring joy and encourage a healthier journey, for health enthusiasts and beginners alike.

Spice Kits for Healthy Cooking

Spice up their culinary adventures with a collection of flavorful and healthy spice kits. Known for their antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory effects, and potential to boost metabolism, spices will add a burst of flavor and may provide numerous health benefits with any meal. So, encourage creativity in the kitchen while keeping their taste buds satisfied and their health in check.

  • “Taste of the World” Spice Gift Set by Fresh Jax: This set is an absolute must for the adventurous home chef. It includes five spices inspired by world cuisines, including Hot Harissa Moroccan Blend for North Africa and Hot Red Curry from Madra.
  • Simply Organic Gourmet Starter 12 Spices Gift Set: This set by Simply Organic includes twelve of the most essential organic spices like garlic powder, rosemary, and cumin. It’s a perfect starter kit for someone diving into the world of organic cooking.
  • Sonoran Spice Ghost Pepper Set: This set by Sonoran Spice includes three of the world’s hottest spices: Ghost Pepper, Scorpion Pepper, and Carolina Reaper. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but spice enthusiasts will love it.
  • “Kitchen Essentials” Spice Kit by The Spice House: This kit includes a collection of 12 essential herbs and spices for the modern-day chef, including Sweet Basil, Hungarian Sweet Paprika, and Greek Oregano.

At-Home Sparkling Beverage Maker

Add a splash of fizz to your hydration routine with an at-home sparkling beverage maker. Not only are these gadgets super fun, but they also offer a more sustainable alternative to store-bought carbonated drinks. Here are a few recommendations to get your loved ones started on their bubbly journey.

  • SodaStream Fizzi One Touch: This electric model has three different fizz levels and operates with just a touch of a button. It’s simple to use and is compatible with all SodaStream flavors and carbonation bottles.
  • DrinkMate Carbonated Soda Maker: DrinkMate stands out in the crowd as it can carbonate not just water, but any beverage! It fizzes up iced tea, juice, or even wine.
  • AARKE – CARBONATOR II: Premium in both price and performance, the Aarke Carbonator II is a sleek and stylish device that would look fantastic on any countertop. It’s built to last, with a sturdy stainless steel design.
  • iSi Soda Siphon: For those who prefer a more affordable, manual option, the iSi Soda Siphon is an excellent choice. This compact gadget is ideal for creating small batches of homemade sodas, cocktails, and more.

Blender for Smoothie Making

A high-powered blender is a must-have for anyone looking to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into their diet. Whether they’re whipping up nutrient-packed smoothies, homemade nut butters, or creamy soups, a quality blender will make their culinary creations a breeze.

  • Visp ElixirNot totally a blender, this option is more like a reusable bottle that lets you blend powders into liquid on the go. Think: protein powder, matcha, lattes, etc. It’s leak proof, made from glass, and claims to be pretty darn quiet.
  • NutriBullet Pro: A compact but mighty blender, the NutriBullet Pro is designed for personal use. It’s perfect for whipping up a quick breakfast smoothie or post-workout protein shake.
  • Ninja Professional Countertop Blender: This budget-friendly yet powerful blender is perfect for those just venturing into the world of smoothie-making. It’s got a large capacity and comes with two Nutri Ninja Cups for on-the-go goodness.
  • Beast Blender: Basically the blender every influencer and their mom is using, this blender was made with “counter-worthy style.” For real, it’s pretty. But it’s smart, too. It monitors blade speed and temperatures, and makes adjustments accordingly. It’s easy to take on the go, too.
  • Vitamix 5200 Blender: Known for its high-performance blending, the Vitamix 5200 makes whole-food juice, cooks soup, and more. It’s a bit of an investment, but the rave reviews suggest it’s worth every penny!

AirFryer for Healthier Cooking

For those who love the crispiness of fried foods but want to cut back on oil and calories, an air fryer is the perfect gift. This kitchen gadget uses hot air circulation to achieve that crispy texture without the need for excessive oil. From guilt-free fries to crispy veggies, the possibilities are endless.

  • Philips Starfish Technology AirFryer: Known for making the original air fryer, the Philips AirFryer offers a bit of sophistication with its digital interface and unique Starfish design for even cooking.
  • COSORI Air Fryer Max XL: This air fryer is a fan favorite. It’s easy to use, offers a range of spacious baskets, and even comes with 100 original, delicious & easy recipes for every meal.
  • Instant Pot Vortex Plus: Not just an air fryer, but a 6-in-1 multi-use cooking device. It can roast, broil, bake, reheat, dehydrate, rotisserie and even air fry — all in one. If kitchen space is a concern, this does it all.
  • Ninja Air Fryer: Ninja has a ton of options. Some are simple, single basket air fryers. Others have dual baskets. You can even have multi-combo options that provide oven and dehydrating options, too. Price range:
  • Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven with Grill: This one is a full-size toaster oven that comes with an air fryer function. Perfect for larger families or those who love to entertain.

Slow Cooker for Easy and Healthy Meals

Make healthy cooking a breeze with a slow cooker. With minimal effort, they can create flavorful and nutritious meals that are ready to enjoy at the end of a long day. From comforting stews to tender meats, a slow cooker will save time and make meal prep a breeze.

Healthy Snack Subscription Box

Treat them to a monthly surprise with a subscription box filled with delicious and nutritious snacks. From protein bars to dried fruits and savory treats, these curated boxes will keep them fueled and satisfied throughout the day, minus the guilt.

  • SnackNation: SnackNation offers a box of new, exciting snacks each month, so your loved one will never get bored.
  • UrthBox: Every box is filled with organic and non-GMO snacks. Plus, they offer a Vegan box option.
  • NatureBox: A perfect box for those with specific dietary needs. You can choose from Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low Sugar, or Low Sodium snack options for your loved one. And the best part?
  • Healthy Surprise Box: All snacks are natural, gluten-free, and GMO-free. It’s like a monthly Christmas of healthy snacking.

Mason Jar Salad Container for a Stylish Lunch

For those who love a bit of style with their healthy eating, a mason jar salad container is a fun and trendy choice. Not only do they provide a pretty presentation, but these jars also keep salads fresh and crisp by allowing for easy layering — dressings at the bottom and greens at the top. Plus, they’re super portable and reusable, making them an eco-friendly option.

  • Ball Mason Jars: These classic mason jars are a popular choice for salad storage. They’re sturdy, reliable, and let’s be honest, they look super cute in your lunch bag.
  • Kerr Wide Mouth Mason Jars: With their wide opening, these jars make it easy to stuff in all your favorite salad ingredients. Plus, they’re dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.
  • Consol Glass Mason Jars: Offering a bit of a unique design, these jars are both stylish and functional. They’re made with high-quality glass and come with a reusable straw.
  • Le Parfait French Glass Canning Jar: If your loved one is a bit fancy, this French-made canning jar is a great choice. It’s a little pricier, but the quality and aesthetic are worth it.

Salad Spinner for Crisp, Fresh Greens

For salad enthusiasts who appreciate perfectly crisp greens, a salad spinner is a must-have kitchen tool. Not only does it efficiently remove excess water after washing, but it also keeps lettuce and other leafy greens at their freshest. Say goodbye to soggy salads and hello to vibrant, crisp greens that make every salad come to life. They’ll wonder how they ever made salads without it!

  • Cuisinart Salad Spinner: This spinner makes salad prep an absolute snap. It’s built to last, so your loved one can count on it for many salads to come. Bonus: it’s dishwasher-safe!
  • OXO Good Grips Salad Spinner: This little workhorse is a fan favorite for a reason. Its easy-to-use pump mechanism and brake button make drying greens a breeze. Not to mention, it doubles as a serving bowl.
  • Zyliss Easy Spin Salad Spinner: This one comes with a newly improved ergonomic handle for effortless pulling. It also keeps produce fresher longer and comes with a 5-year guarantee.

Meal Prep Containers for Portion Control

Portion control is key to maintaining a healthy diet. It helps regulate calorie intake and promotes balanced nutrition. By controlling the amount of food consumed, individuals can avoid overeating and ensure they are getting the right balance of nutrients. A set of high-quality meal prep containers will help them stay on track with their weight loss goals. With convenient compartments and leak-proof designs, these containers make it easy to plan and portion meals ahead of time.

  • Bentgo 2-Compartment Meal-Prep Containers with Custom-Fit Lids: These containers are designed with two generously sized compartments, perfect for packing a balanced meal. Their custom-fit lids ensure food stays as fresh and tasty as when it was first prepared. And they’re microwave-, dishwasher-, and freezer-safe.
  • Prep Naturals Glass Food Storage Containers: These storage containers are made from eco-friendly, BPA-free glass that can handle anything, from the microwave to the freezer, with ease. They offer a tight-sealing lid to keep meals fresh and smartly-designed compartments to help keep your food separate and organized.
  • Caraway Food Storage Set: The Caraway Food Storage Set brings organization and style to any kitchen. Made from naturally BPA-free materials, this set is as safe as it is stylish. And they’re stackable! They’ll save you space in your pantry or fridge. Plus, they’re oven-safe, dishwasher-safe, and microwave-safe.

Portion Control Plates for Mindful Eating

Here’s another simple yet effective way to eat healthier — portion control plates! These plates are designed with markings to guide the user on the right amounts of different food groups they should consume in a meal. It’s an easy and practical method to ensure a balanced diet without having to do complicated calorie counting.

  • Ezy Dose Portion Control Tray: This plate helps manage servings by fitting right over a dinner plate. It’s a practical tool that removes the guesswork from portion control. It’s dishwasher-safe and a great tool to support anyone’s dietary goals.
  • Health Beet Portion Control Plate: These are dishwasher-safe and even come with a guide to help your loved one understand what each portion looks like. The colorful design makes portion control fun and easy!
  • La Boos Square Portion Control Plates: These plates are crafted from eco-friendly bamboo and divided into four sections for fruits or veggies, grains, and proteins. The plate’s design encourages a balanced diet and the bamboo material adds a touch of elegance.
  • Precise Portions Go Healthy Portion Control Plates: A set of these plates includes a portion control guide and a 10-week Monday to Sunday meal planner for a comprehensive approach to healthier eating. The plates are also microwave-safe.

Microgreen or Herb Garden for Homegrown Nutrition

Bring the joy of gardening indoors with a microgreen countertop garden. These compact and easy-to-use kits allow them to grow their own nutrient-packed microgreens right in their kitchen. Plus, microgreens and herbs are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and have been found to have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. And it’s a fun and sustainable way to add freshness and flavor to any meal.

  • Click and Grow Smart Garden: This indoor garden kit makes growing herbs as easy as clicking a button. It comes with a built-in grow light and self-watering system, meaning even the most novice gardeners can turn their kitchen into a farmer’s market.
  • AeroGarden Harvest: This option allows your loved one to grow up to six herbs, vegetables, or salad greens at once, all year round. It’s an all-in-one system that includes a high-performance grow light and a control panel that alerts when it’s time to add water and plant food.

MyFitnessPal Premium Membership

Help your loved ones stay on track with their fitness and nutrition goals by gifting them a MyFitnessPal Premium membership. With advanced features like macro tracking, goal setting, and personalized insights, this app is like having a nutritionist in their pocket. It’s the gift that keeps on giving, providing support and motivation throughout the year. Price range: $19.99 monthly or $79.99 per year.

High-Quality Olive Oil or Vinegar Set for Flavorful Cooking

A good-quality olive oil or vinegar set can take the taste of meals to a whole new level. These sets often come with an assortment of flavors that can add a gourmet touch to any dish. Plus, olive oil is rich in heart-healthy fats, making it a great addition to a health-conscious kitchen.

  • Giuseppe Giusti Gran Deposito Italian Balsamic Wine Vinegar: This vinegar comes from a 17th century family recipe and is aged in barrels with the addition of aged balsamic vinegar extracted from century old casks. It’s sure to add a gourmet touch to meals.
  • Corto’s Virtual Tasting Experience: Not just high-quality olive oil; this one’s an experience your loved one can do right from home. The kit includes a selection of Corto’s finest olive oils and a guided virtual tasting via their website. Your loved one will learn about the nuances of flavor, notes to look for, and even the art of olive oil tasting.
  • McEvoy Ranch Olive Oil Tasting Gift: The set includes eight different olive oils, each with its own unique flavor profile. From the rich, robust notes of the Traditional blend to the zesty kick of the Lemon infused oil, there’s a taste for every palette. Plus, it’s all organically grown and estate-produced at McEvoy Ranch in Petaluma, California.
  • 12 Year Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena: This vinegar is aged for 12 years in wooden barrels for a sweet and thick consistency. It’s perfect for salad dressings, dips, and even desserts.

Greek Yogurt Maker for Fresh and Healthy Treats

For those who love a good bowl of Greek yogurt, why not gift them a Greek yogurt maker? They can make fresh, creamy, and delicious Greek yogurt right at home. It’s an ideal gift for anyone looking to add more probiotics to their diet without the added sugars found in store-bought versions. And bonus: According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, individuals who consumed probiotics experienced faster weight loss compared to those who did not.

  • Euro Cuisine GY50 Greek Yogurt Maker: With this Greek yogurt maker, your loved one gets a high-quality strainer and easy-to-follow recipes. It’s BPA-free and dishwasher-safe, making it both safe and easy to clean.
  • Williams Sonoma Automatic Yogurt Maker: This one comes with seven 6-oz. reusable glass jars and plastic lids for individual servings, plus a dating system for marking when yogurt was made. So, definitely perfect for the organizers and labelers in your life. It also has digital controls that allow customizations to fermentation time up to 15 hours.
  • DASH Greek Yogurt Maker: This compact and user-friendly device can make up to 2 quarts of creamy, rich Greek yogurt right in your kitchen, in as little as eight hours. Great for loved ones who are tight on space.

Fermentation Kit for Homemade Probiotics

Speaking of probiotics, if your loved one is a fan of fermented foods, consider spoiling them with a fermentation kit. It’s a great way for them to experiment with making their own sauerkraut, kimchi, or pickles. Here are a couple of options to consider:

  • The Easy Fermenter: This kit makes home fermenting a breeze. The lids fit right onto mason jars, and it includes a date setter so your loved one can track how long their foods have been fermenting. Plus, it comes with a satisfaction guarantee and access to a community of fermenters for support and recipe ideas.
  • The Ohio Stoneware Pickling Crock: Perfect for the more advanced fermenting enthusiast, this 2-gallon stoneware crock provides the ideal environment for pickles, sauerkraut, and other fermented goodies. The weight ensures veggies stay submerged during the fermenting process. Other sizes available, too.
  • Masontops Fermentation Kit: This all-in-one kit includes everything your loved one needs to start fermenting today — mason jars, pickle pipes, pickle pebbles, and a pickle packer. It’s a fantastic choice for beginners and even comes with a recipe book to start you off.

Digital Food Scale for Precise Measurements

A digital food scale can be a game-changer for someone serious about their health and nutrition goals. It allows for accurate measurement of food portions, ensuring they stay within their desired caloric intake. Plus, it’s also handy for those who love to bake or cook recipes that call for precise measurements.

  • Etekcity Digital Kitchen Scale: Etekcity’s multifunctional scales provide accurate measurements from 0.04 oz up to 11 lbs. They’re sleek, stainless steel design gives them a modern look, and they’re easy to clean. They even include a battery so your loved one can start measuring right out of the box.
  • GreaterGoods Digital Food Kitchen Scale: Not only is this scale accurate and easy to use, but it also gives back. A portion of your purchase is also donated to charity.
  • My Weigh Bakers Math Kitchen Scale: For the serious bakers out there, this scale does it all. It calculates in bakers percentages and grams, making baking more consistent. It’s a little pricier, but it’s worth it for loved ones who are always in the kitchen.

Espresso Maker for Caffeine Lovers

Ah, yes. The magic elixir that wakes us up every morning. Scientific research actually reveals some surprising health benefits of regular espresso consumption. It’s said to enhance long-term memory, improve physical performance, and even lower the risk of stroke. Here are a few that we recommend:

  • De’Longhi EC155 15 Bar Pump Espresso Maker: This user-friendly espresso maker offers both single and double espresso options. It’s easy to use and clean and is perfect for all the latte lovers out there. It’s a little gadget that brings the barista experience right into your loved one’s home without breaking the bank.
  • Mr. Coffee Programmable Espresso and Cappuccino Maker: This 3-in-1 coffee maker pulls espresso shots, heats, and froths milk so your loved one can serve up impressive coffeehouse-style beverages right at home.
  • Breville’s Barista Express Espresso Machine: For coffee lovers who appreciate their daily dose of caffeine, this espresso machine takes grinding to the next level. With its interchangeable filters and the option of automatic or manual operation, they can enjoy authentic café-style results in a flash.

At-Home Workout Gear

There’s been a shift in how we sweat it out. The living room has emerged as the new fitness studio, and it’s not just because of convenience. One study found that individuals can achieve significant weight loss and improve fitness levels by working out from home. So, if your loved ones are looking to hit their fitness goals from the comfort of their own home, take a peek at these top-rated at-home workout gear that might be perfect for them!

  • Peloton Bike: Tell your loved one to say goodbye to (possibly unused) gym memberships and hello to personalized at-home workouts! The Peloton Bike brings live and on-demand fitness classes right into their home. With real-time metrics, they can track their performance and push their limits.
  • Strength Training Equipment: From dumbbells to resistance bands, having a variety of strength training equipment at home allows your loved one to customize workouts to their health and fitness goals.
  • TRX Suspension Training System: Help your loved one turn any room into a gym with the TRX Suspension Training System. It’s a full-body workout tool that leverages gravity and body weight to perform hundreds of exercises.
  • Desk Treadmill: Who says people can’t stay active while working? A desk treadmill enables anyone to walk or run while answering emails or attending virtual meetings. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more movement into the day.

The Bottom Line

So, there you have it! These thoughtful and practical gifts are perfect for any health enthusiast (or beginners) in your life.

Remember, it’s not about the price tag but the thought that counts. And giving the gift of health is priceless.

Note: Please check with retailers or online platforms for the most up-to-date pricing information.

Originally published December 2023; Updated December 2025

The post 18 Gift Ideas for Health Enthusiasts and Beginners appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.



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Bomb threat at Kudankulam nuclear plant: Search ops launched; email mentions Putin visit | India News

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Bomb threat at Kudankulam nuclear plant: Search ops launched; email mentions Putin visit
Search operation launched after bomb threat (ANI image)

NEW DELHI: Security agencies on Thursday launched an extensive search operation in Rajasthan’s Ajmer after the district administration received a bomb threat email. The email claimed that RDX-based explosives had been planted at the Ajmer Sharif dargah, the district collectorate and the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant in Tamil Nadu. It also warned that the bombs would be triggered in connection with the arrival of Russian President Vladimir Putin, police said.According to officials, the threatening email was received at the Ajmer collectorate around noon. It claimed that four RDX-based improvised explosive devices (IEDs) had been planted at the dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, the collectorate premises and the Kudankulam atomic plant. The letter also warned that the bombs would detonate upon the arrival of President Putin, news agency PTI reported. Superintendent of Police Vandita Rana said all departments were immediately alerted after the threat mail surfaced. “An email threatening to bomb the Ajmer dargah and the collectorate was received. Following this, the premises were evacuated and checked thoroughly,” she said.She added that the dargah complex was also cleared and a detailed search operation is underway. “So far, no suspicious object has been found,” Rana said.Teams of the Crime Investigation Department (CID), Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), dog squads and bomb disposal units have been deployed at the affected locations. Security personnel from four police stations, along with additional forces, are conducting systematic checks using metal detectors as part of the operation.Entry into the Ajmer Sharif dargah has been temporarily halted, leading to large crowds gathering outside the main gates. The entire area around the shrine has been cordoned off and all incoming visitors have been stopped until the search is completed.Senior officials, including three civic body commissioners and station house officers from nine police stations, have been stationed at the site to supervise the operation. Police said a probe has been initiated to trace the source of the threatening email.





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Ukraine has become Europe’s war – so why doesn’t it act like it? | World News

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Something concrete and unarguable has emerged from the diplomatic turbulence generated by Donald Trump’s attempts to end the war in Ukraine. 

The war in Ukraine has become Europe’s war – in fact, it is unlikely to be America’s problem for long.

The Trump administration’s 20-something-point peace plan, as shepherded by envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, is going nowhere.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the European Union leaders' summit in Brussels, Belgium. Pic: Reuters
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the European Union leaders’ summit in Brussels, Belgium. Pic: Reuters

When presented with the proposal on Tuesday, a Russian negotiator said President Putin made, “no secret of our critical and even negative attitude toward a number of elements.”

But the words of the Russian leader himself are more instructive. In a belligerent speech made on the same day, he threatened to “cut Ukraine off from the sea entirely” in retaliation to a series of attacks on Russian-linked oil tankers.

This is not a man thinking about doing a deal. Putin is the obvious obstacle.

None of which will have come as any surprise to leaders in Europe and the UK, who did what they typically do when the situation looks grim.

Servicemen of the 93rd Kholodnyi Yar Separate Mechanized Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Pic: Reuters
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Servicemen of the 93rd Kholodnyi Yar Separate Mechanized Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Pic: Reuters

Britain, France, Ireland, Germany and others have been issuing lofty declarations of the “we’ll support Ukraine as long as it takes,” variety.

But this time it is different. European leaders are going to have to treat Ukraine like the emergency it is – or face the consequences.

Presently, they occupy a position that many see as absurd.

Europe, including Britain, bankroll the Ukrainian government. Funding which was split down the middle with the Biden administration has been assumed by Europe in full. Furthermore, the Europeans pay for all American weaponry through a NATO facility called PURL.

Firefighters put out a fire after a drone hit a multi-storey residential building during Russia's night drone attack in Kyiv. Pic: AP
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Firefighters put out a fire after a drone hit a multi-storey residential building during Russia’s night drone attack in Kyiv. Pic: AP

Thus, Europe has got skin in the game – they are paying the bills. But where are they sitting at the negotiation table?

They are not there at all. The Russians do not want them, and the US does not seem particularly keen. When US secretary of state Marco Rubio met a Ukrainian delegation to discuss the peace plan in Geneva, he said he did not know anything about European counter-proposals

“It’s extraordinary that Europe is picking up the bill but struggles to make itself heard,” says Marc De Vore, of St Andrews University. “It shows the lack of vision, coordination and leadership across the continent.”

The former foreign minister of Lithuania, Gabrielius Landsbergis, is utterly exasperated by Europe’s ineffectiveness.

Marco Rubio, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner meet with Ukrainian defence chief Rustem Umerov and his delegation in Florida. Pic: Reuters
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Marco Rubio, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner meet with Ukrainian defence chief Rustem Umerov and his delegation in Florida. Pic: Reuters

“If you are a European leader asking your team to book you on the next flight to Washington to go talk to daddy, please don’t. Not without a plan, not cap in hand, not humiliating us all in front of the cameras at the Oval Office.

“Europe is our continent, our future is decided here, not there. We aren’t poor, we have options, we can finally decide to assist Ukraine to the full extent…”

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This frustration is shared by the Ukrainians, who have begun to use a different word to describe this relationship – betrayal.

Inna Sovsun is an MP in the Ukrainian parliament. Her husband, a combat medic, is serving at the front.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy awards a Ukrainian service member, as he visits a frontline position, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine. Pic: Reuters
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Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy awards a Ukrainian service member, as he visits a frontline position, amid Russia’s attack on Ukraine. Pic: Reuters

“People on the frontline feel really disappointed with the whole situation, and it does feel like betrayal.

“The challenge is much bigger than which village will be controlled by whom in Donbas. It is about, what does the future of civilisation look like? Does Russia’s barbaric version win? If you are not willing to fight for that, those values aren’t worth much, are they?”

Unsurprisingly perhaps, analysts and others are sketching out what Ukraine would look like if forced to capitulate. The idea here, is that Europe will not like what it sees.

Picture an unstable nation on Europe’s border with a proxy-Russian leader – or different groups battling for control. The population is restive, with many thousands of men both conditioned and traumatised by war. Millions of refugees seek shelter in Europe.

A service member of the 125th Separate Heavy Mechanized Brigade with a Kalashnikov tank machine gun. Pic: Reuters
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A service member of the 125th Separate Heavy Mechanized Brigade with a Kalashnikov tank machine gun. Pic: Reuters

Economists have tried to put a figure on such scenarios, with one group estimating costs to Europe approaching €3tn euros in additional defence and refugee-related spending if Ukraine is seriously weakened.

For the Europeans, a test of their resolve is already at hand. The EU must agree on a plan to seize up to €210bn euros in frozen Russian assets as a means of funding the cash-strapped government in Kyiv.

The issue is legally contentious, with countries like Belgium, where much of the money is held, fretting about liability. But the Ukrainians see it as a simple question of commitment.

“Given what is at stake, there just has to be stronger political will. That is what is difficult for us to grasp. (They) say all those good things, the right things, but that doesn’t really matter much,” says Ms Sovsun.



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Soaring demand for mental health, ADHD and autism services to be reviewed after ‘overdiagnosis’ claim | Politics News

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A review into the rising demand for mental health, ADHD and autism services has been launched by the health secretary.

The independent review will look at rates of diagnosis, and the support offered to people.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting said the issue needs to be looked at through a “strictly clinical lens” after he claimed in March that there had been an “overdiagnosis” of mental health conditions, with “too many people being written off”.

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Mental health conditions are being more commonly reported among the working-age population, figures analysed by the Institute for Fiscal Studies found.

More than half of the increase in 16 to 64-year-olds claiming disability benefits since the pandemic is due to more claims relating to mental health or behavioural conditions.

A total of 1.3 million people claim disability benefits – 44% of all claimants – primarily for mental health or behavioural conditions, the analysis shows.

The review will be led by leading clinical psychologist Professor Peter Fonagy, the national clinical adviser on children and young people’s mental health, who will work with academics, doctors, epidemiological experts, charities and parents.

He will look at what is driving the rising demand for services, and inequalities in accessing support.

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Govt orders review into ADHD rise

The Department of Health said 13 times more people were waiting for an autism assessment in September 2025 compared with April 2019.

There is £688m in extra funding going towards hiring 8,500 more mental health workers so the NHS can expand on talking therapies and increase the number of mental health emergency departments.

Mr Streeting said: “I know from personal experience how devastating it can be for people who face poor mental health, have ADHD or autism, and can’t get a diagnosis or the right support.

“I also know, from speaking to clinicians, how the diagnosis of these conditions is sharply rising.

“We must look at this through a strictly clinical lens to get an evidence-based understanding of what we know, what we don’t know, and what these patterns tell us about our mental health system, autism and ADHD services.

“That’s the only way we can ensure everyone gets timely access to accurate diagnosis and effective support.”

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ADHD is changing the world of work

Prof Fonagy said: “This review will only be worthwhile if it is built on solid ground. We will examine the evidence with care to understand, in a grounded way, what is driving rising demand.

“My aim is to test assumptions rigorously, and listen closely to those most affected, so that our recommendations are both honest and genuinely useful.”

The findings will be published next summer.



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Budget 2026: STMAI urges PLI scheme for seamless pipe exports; calls for higher customs duty

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Budget 2026: STMAI urges PLI scheme for seamless pipe exports; calls for higher customs duty

The Seamless Tube Manufacturers’ Association of India (STMAI) on Thursday urged the government to introduce a production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme covering at least 10 per cent of exports of their products, ahead of the Union Budget. STMAI President Shiv Kumar Singhal also urged stricter measures to curb illegal imports of seamless pipes, which are affecting domestic producers. The association represents India’s manufacturers of seamless pipes and tubes.Singhal called for raising the customs duty on such imports from the current 10 per cent to 20 per cent in the upcoming annual budget to safeguard the domestic industry.

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He added that these concerns were discussed during a meeting with the steel ministry, and the association is hopeful that they will be addressed in the forthcoming budget.Such incentives would boost India’s export growth in the sector, noting that domestic manufacturers produce high-quality seamless pipes for local use while actively exploring international markets. India is emerging as a key player in the global seamless pipe market, exporting 172,000 tonnes of seamless steel pipes worth USD 606 million in 2023. These pipes, classified under HS code 7304, primarily serve the oil and gas, engineering, and infrastructure sectors, with major export destinations including the United States, Italy, Canada, Spain, and the United Arab Emirates.Meanwhile, imports of seamless pipes and tubes from China more than doubled in FY25, reaching 4.97 lakh metric tonnes, according to STMAI. In comparison, the country had imported 2.44 lakh metric tonnes from China in the previous financial year, as cited by The Economic Times. The minimum import price of seamless pipes is Rs 85,000 per tonne, while Chinese pipes are being sold in the Indian market in small quantities at Rs 70,000 per tonne. This large-scale dumping has led to the under-utilisation of domestic manufacturing capacity.





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Rupee rebounds: INR pulls back as RBI support, softer dollar offer relief; currency ends the day at 89.96 per USD

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Rupee rebounds: INR pulls back as RBI support, softer dollar offer relief; currency ends the day at 89.96 per USD

The rupee pulled back from its weakest-ever level on Thursday, ending the day at 89.96 against the US dollar, a gain of 19 paise, as a softer dollar index and reports of the Reserve Bank of India’s intervention helped steady the currency. Traders said the US dollar lost ground after ADP non-farm payroll numbers came in far below expectations, providing some support to the rupee after a volatile start, as per news agency PTI.The currency had opened on the back foot at 90.36, weighed down by persistent foreign investor selling, firmer crude oil and delays in announcing the India–US trade deal. It then slipped further to a new all-time low of 90.43 before recovering later. This came a day after the rupee breached the 90-per-dollar mark for the first time, closing at 90.15 on Wednesday.As per PTI, chief economic adviser V Anantha Nageswaran said on Wednesday that the rupee’s fall was not feeding into higher inflation or hurting exports, though he noted that weaker currency levels can lift outward shipments while pushing up the cost of imports. Import-heavy sectors such as electronics, petroleum, and gems and jewellery may feel the strain of higher input costs, he added.Traders said the currency continues to face pressure from foreign fund outflows and uncertainty surrounding the stalled trade negotiations with the United States. On Wednesday, foreign institutional investors sold Rs 3,206.92 crore worth of equities, according to exchange data.Market participants also flagged elevated crude prices as a headwind. Brent crude was last trading 0.22% higher at $62.81 per barrel in futures trade. Meanwhile, the dollar index—which tracks the greenback against six major currencies—eased 0.01% to 98.84, helping the rupee move off its lows.Anuj Choudhary of Mirae Asset ShareKhan said the rupee may “trade with a negative bias” due to continued selling by FIIs and weakness in domestic markets. However, he added that a subdued dollar following disappointing US jobs data and rising expectations of a December Federal Reserve rate cut could help cushion the currency. “Any further intervention by the central bank may also support the rupee,” he said, projecting a USD–INR range of 89.65 to 90.50.India’s GDP growth has surprised on the upside, and the HSBC India Services PMI climbed to 59.8 in November on strong demand. Markets are now looking to the RBI’s monetary policy announcement on Friday, where Governor Sanjay Malhotra’s rate-setting panel will weigh falling inflation, solid growth, a weaker rupee and global tensions.Equity markets were firm on Thursday, with the Sensex rising 158.51 points to 85,265.32 and the Nifty up 47.75 points at 26,033.75.Trade on Wednesday showed how sharply the rupee has been moving. It had opened at 89.96, hit an intra-day record low of 90.15, and recovered to 90.02 by early afternoon. Traders said nationalised banks were seen buying dollars at higher levels, possibly on behalf of the RBI, while delays in India–US trade talks and heavy foreign outflows kept the rupee under pressure, as per PTI.





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