Vedanta raises women’s representation target to 35%

• Launches #HerAtTheCore campaign, inviting women to natural resources

7 March 2026: Marking International Women’s Day, Vedanta Group has raised its ambition to achieve 35% women representation across all levels of the organisation, while launching #HerAtTheCore, a nationwide campaign and LinkedIn-led hiring drive inviting women to build careers across mining, metals, oil & gas, power, and technology.

The announcement comes against a stark industry backdrop. According to the Annual Survey of Industries in India, women accounted for around 18% of direct employment across industries in 2023–24, while in core sectors such as mining and metals, their share remains only about 6%.

The #HerAtTheCore campaign seeks to highlight the fact that India is entering a defining decade of industrial growth, powering the global energy transition, building EV supply chains, and strengthening its role in advanced manufacturing and technology. Metals, minerals, oil & gas, and power are crucial for the growth of these industries. And yet, women represent only about 6% of the workforce across core sectors that will build this future. For India’s economic aspirations to be realised, the industries powering them must reflect the full strength of the country’s talent pool.

At Vedanta, women today constitute 23% of the workforce, significantly above industry averages. Anchored in the message “6% isn’t enough, and 23% is just the beginning,” the #HerAtTheCore campaign highlights both the industry gap and the opportunity to reshape the future workforce of core industries.

Commenting on the initiative, Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Non-Executive Director, Vedanta Ltd, and Chairperson, Hindustan Zinc Limited, said, “India’s growth ambitions require the full participation of its talent pool. At Vedanta, women today represent 23% of our workforce, but this is only the beginning. Our ambition is to grow to 35% and ultimately to 50%. We are not only increasing representation — we are redesigning systems, deploying advanced technologies, and building life-stage support frameworks that enable women to thrive in core industries. #HerAtTheCore is both a celebration and a call to action. We encourage talented women across disciplines to join us and help shape the sectors that power the world.”

Technology as an Equaliser
A central pillar of Vedanta’s inclusion strategy is the use of advanced technology to create safer, skill-driven workplaces where performance is defined by capability, not gender. Today’s mining and metals operations are increasingly intellectually driven, with engineers managing complex processes through digital systems and real-time analytics, while heavy lifting is handled by advanced machinery and mechanised equipment. Automation, digital operations centres, ES, and remote monitoring have created a more level playing field for men and women alike.

Supporting Women Across Life Stages
Beyond recruitment, Vedanta focuses on long-term retention and growth through:
• Structured returnship programmes post maternity
• Flexible work arrangements and inclusive shift structures
• Spouse hiring policies in remote locations
• Leadership acceleration tracks for high-potential women
• Access to world-class integrated townships offering quality housing, healthcare, education, childcare, sports, infrastructure, culture, and vibrant community life

From Campaign to Careers
The #HerAtTheCore campaign, which is gaining momentum on social media, invites women engineers, geologists, data scientists, operators, and leaders to apply for roles across the businesses of Vedanta Limited.

By combining visible role models with active recruitment, Vedanta aims to signal that core sectors are evolving — and women are central to India’s industrial future.

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Labels Were Never Her Size — Campus Activewear Celebrates Zeenat Aman This Women’s Day

7th March 2026: This Women’s Day, Campus Activewear presents a powerful new campaign featuring cultural icon Zeenat Aman, celebrating the freedom for women to move on their own terms as an extension of the You Go Girl campaign. Conceptualised as a cinematic narrative, the film transcends conventional indicators of success, such as wealth, fame, or nostalgia. Instead, it explores what truly drives women forward: choice. Through a series of striking visual moments, Zeenat Aman rejects the glitter, the noise, and the past, ultimately embracing freedom. The freedom to walk forward without permission, to tell her story her way, and to define success for herself. As she navigates different spaces, her journey becomes a metaphor for every woman who continues to evolve, lead, and inspire others along the way.

“For us, empowering women goes far beyond a campaign or a single day of celebration. It begins with creating an environment where women feel confident, supported, and free to pursue their ambitions without hesitation. At Campus, we focus on understanding their everyday movements and designing products that genuinely make day-to-day lives easier, whether that means comfort through long days, reliability through changing roles, or style that reflects individuality. We believe progress happens when women feel heard, when their feedback shapes what we build, and when small barriers are removed consistently. When women receive the appropriate support system, their progress extends beyond their personal growth. They create momentum for everyone around them.” This was said by Prerna Agarwal, Chief Innovation Officer of Campus Activewear.

“I have spent a lifetime being told what I should look like, what I should wear, and what I should represent. And for a lifetime, I have walked my own way regardless. That is not rebellion; that is simply knowing who you are. When Campus approached me with this campaign, I said yes immediately, because the message is not about me. The campaign is about every woman who has been given a label and has chosen to wear it as a symbol of honour instead. “You go, girl — move your way.” — Zeenat Aman, Actor, Icon, and You Go, Girl Ambassador.

Link – https://www.instagram.com/reels/DVirtevDBY7/

The campaign is a bold extension of Campus’s You Go Girl initiative, which encourages women to embrace their choices and move through life with self-belief and authenticity. With Zeenat Aman as its voice and symbol, the message becomes even more resonant: freedom is not permission granted; it is power claimed.
This Women’s Day, Campus encourages women to move freely, move forward, and move their way

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The ITF World Tennis Tour (WTT), one of the most prestigious and prominent pro tours, will be held from 10th

to 15th March 2026, once again in the State of Bengal, and after a long gap of six years, at the Bengal Tennis Association Complex. The championship, sanctioned by the International Tennis Federation, will witness the qualifying rounds on the 08th & 09th March 2026. After organising the ITF Pro as well as the Junior Circuit in Kolkata for the past three decades, the Bengal Tennis Association has been entrusted once again to hold this prestigious World Ranking championship. This year, the championship will be organised and hosted by the Central Excise Athletic Club. The organising team has earned the distinction of hosting this category (M25) tournament due to their professional approach and personalised attention to each individual participating player.
In the present age of competitiveness, it is more and more important for our players to participate in international meets. Only a privileged few nowadays can take part in the International (ITF) events because of the huge costs involved in foreign travel. Not only do they lose out on gaining direct entries, but in most cases, they have to play qualifying rounds.
The official accommodation partners are Hotel Hyatt Regency, Hotel Soujorn, and NX Hotel & Lounge. The tournament will follow the guidelines laid down by the “International Tennis Federation”. Men’s WTT tournaments are open to all male tennis players based on merit and without discrimination. Minors under the age of fourteen (14) shall not be eligible for entry. For these regulations, the player’s age as of the Monday of the tournament week shall be used. The tournament would be played on the synthetic courts, as in the Australian Open, at the Bengal Tennis Association Complex, Salt Lake, Kolkata. Normal playing hours would be from 10.00 am to 6 pm. Before and after the match playing hours, courts will be provided to players for practice.
The tournament has also received strong support from several prominent corporate partners. Reliance Industries Limited and Coal India Limited have joined as primary sponsors; other sponsors supporting the event include UCO Bank, Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Century Ply, Skipper Limited, Patton Group, JAC Olivol, and EIILM. The Jagannath Gupta Institute of Medical Sciences & Hospitals will be the official healthcare partner for the tournament.
POINTS TABLE (ATP Ranking Points)
SINGLES DOUBLES
Winner 25 25
Runners – up 14 14
Semi-finalist 7 7
Quarter-finalist 3 3
Loser in last 16: 1 X
Prize Money Breakdown (in USD)
SINGLES DOUBLES (Per Team)
Winner 4612 1782
Runners – up 2701 1023
Semi-finalist 1550 627
Quarter-finalist 905 323
Round of 16 495 194

Round of 32: 319
Entries for the championship have been received from eleven foreign countries, viz., Switzerland, Australia, Russia, the Czech Republic, Sweden, Ukraine, Great Britain, the Netherlands, Kazakhstan, Germany, Thailand, and the host country, India. The following events shall be held: –
DRAW
Boys’ Singles 32
Boys Doubland is 16
Notable Main Draw entries received are as follows:
POS PLAYER NATIONALITY ATP RANKING
1 Luca Castelnuovo SUI 415
2 Karan Singh IND 436
3 Philip Sekulic AUS 501
4 Dominik Palan CZE 524
5 Sasikumar Mukund IND 525
6 Leo Borg SWE 592
7 Timofei Derepasko 672
8 Yurii Dzhavakian UKR 675
9 Sidharth Rawat IND 686
10 Manish Sureshkumar IND 890
11 Dev Javia IND 926
12 Grigoriy Lomakin KAZ 942
13 Brian Bozemoj NED 948
14 Ishaque Eqbal IND 967
15 Bekhan Atlangeriev 977
POS PLAYER NATIONALITY ATP RANKING
16 Chirag Duhan IND 1004
17 James Van Herzeele THA 1097
18 Maan Kesharwani IND 1098
19 Rohan Mehra IND 1123
20 Aditya Balsekar IND 1229
The Wild Cards for the Main Draw & Qualifying have been awarded to;
MAIN DRAW COUNTRY QUALIFYING COUNTRY
ABHINAV SANJEEV SHANMUGAM (AITA)
IND DEEP MUNIM (AITA) IND
SARTHAK SUDEN (AITA) IND, JAGMEET SINGH (AITA) IND
KABIR HANS (IND) AND MAYAND TEWARY IND
SHANKER HEISNAM (IND) AND ANURAG AGARWAL IND
GAUTAM VENKATRAMAN IND
There will be 20 direct entries, 4 wild cards, and 8 qualifiers. With such a large foreign participation, the tournament will indeed be of a very high standard. With the organisational experience of Central Excise, CGST Athletic Club, and the Bengal Tennis Association, we can assure you that it will be one of the best tournaments of the year. The inauguration ceremony will be held on Tuesday, 10th March 2026, at 09:30 am. Shri Shrawan Kumar, IRS, Pr. Chief Commissioner, CGST & Central Excise, Kolkata, will inaugurate the championship in the presence of Shri Hironmoy Chatterjee, Vice President, All India Tennis Association, and other dignitaries. As per our usual practice, draw sheets, schedules of matches, etc., and daily media releases would be emailed to all the papers by 6.00 pm every day. We would also request you to visit the venue (BTA, Salt Lake) and cover this prestigious championship. The Central Excise Athletic Club needs your support. It is an institution that wishes to reach all citizens of Kolkata, irrespective of age, class, and creed. Your valued mileage will help the players to perform

SHILPANEER NEWSPAPER

Unbeaten Mumbai City face Sporting Club Delhi

Mumbai, Saturday, March 7, 2026: Mumbai City FC will hope to maintain their unbeaten run when they face Sporting Club Delhi in Indian Super League 2025-26 on Sunday, March 8, at the Mumbai Football Arena. The match is scheduled to kick off at 19:30 IST. The match will be streamed live on FanCode and telecast on Sony Sports Ten 2. Mumbai City FC headed into the fixture sitting fourth in the standings with seven points. They enter the match on the back of a hard-fought 1-1 draw against NorthEast United FC in their previous encounter. Having remained unbeaten in their campaign so far, the hosts will capitalise on their formidable home advantage to return to their winning ways and climb further up the league table.

Sporting Club Delhi players warm up during Match 14 of the Indian Super League, played between FCG Vs SCD at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa on 26th February 2026 Photo: Shibu Preman / Focus Sports / ISL

Speaking about the necessity of maintaining momentum and consistency, Mumbai City FC head coach Petr Krátký emphasised his team’s preparation. “The most important objective is to secure three points, but we will do it our way by respecting our pattern of play and exposing the opposition. The team is progressing really well, and we hope to maintain the momentum. SC Delhi is a team with a lot of energy, so we must stay focused and disciplined and concentrate on transitions.”

Mumbai City defender Sahil Panwar said, “It is not about me performing individually. It is about us as a group, how we perform collectively as a team. We are concentrating on keeping the score clean. SC Delhi, meanwhile, arrives in Mumbai, desperately hunting for its first win of the campaign. The newly rebranded side currently sits at the bottom of the table, still looking for its first points after three matches. They showed resolute defending but suffered a narrow 0-1 defeat to FC Goa in their previous away outing.

In 22 total meetings, SC Delhi (including the previously named franchises Hyderabad FC and FC Pune City) holds a narrow advantage with eight wins to Mumbai City’s seven, alongside seven draws. Despite trailing in victories, the Islanders edge the historic goal tally 27 to 24. Their last encounter in February 2025 ended in a gritty stalemate. The visitors will now aim to carry their improved defensive organisation against their experienced opponents, who have looked clinical in the final third. SC Delhi head coach Tomasz Tchórz views the pressure as a vital developmental tool for his side. “It’s a huge game away in Mumbai against the former champions. They are a fantastic club with a proud history and a strong squad. We will do everything to compete in the game. We must be at our very best to try to secure a positive result,” said Tchórz.

“We are a new team, and building chemistry takes time. We are also playing away games one after another. The players are working very hard in training and giving everything on the pitch. We hope the work we are putting in will translate into results,” Tchórz noted. SC Delhi defender Lamgoulen said, “When the club shows this much trust in you, you feel a bigger responsibility to give everything back to the team. As captain, the responsibility is much bigger. I want to help the team, support my teammates, and give my best every day.” Mumbai City will try to control and dictate the tempo in front of its home fans, while Saimselhi will aim to stay compact and capitalise on transitions. With three important points to be won, the match promises to be an intriguing contest.

SHILPANEER NEWSPAPER

মস্তিষ্ক এবং মেরুদণ্ডের অস্ত্রোপচারের আধুনিক অগ্রগতি, প্রাথমিক রোগ নির্ণয় এবং নিরাপদ চিকিৎসা পদ্ধতি / Advances in Brain and Spine Surgery, Early Diagnosis and Safer Treatment Options

কলকাতা: বিশিষ্ট নিউরোসার্জন এবং স্পাইন বিশেষজ্ঞ ডাঃ অনিন্দ্য বসু এবং ডাঃ মিলিন্দ দেওগাঁওকর আজ এক অনন্য অনুষ্ঠানে একত্রিত হয়ে মস্তিষ্ক ও মেরুদণ্ডের ব্যাধির ক্রমবর্ধমান বোঝা এবং কীভাবে অস্ত্রোপচারের কৌশল দ্রুত রোগীদের সুস্থতায় অগ্রগতি ও ফলাফলে আমূল পরিবর্তন আনে তা নিয়ে আলোচনা করেছেন। বিশেষজ্ঞদের নেতৃত্বাধীন এই আলোচনাটি মূলত প্রাথমিক উপসর্গ শনাক্তকরণ, বিবর্তনশীল চিকিৎসার বিকল্প এবং প্রচলিত ওপেন সার্জারি থেকে ন্যূনতম আক্রমণাত্মক (মিনিমালি ইনভেসিভ) এবং প্রযুক্তি-চালিত পদ্ধতির দিকে পরিবর্তনের গুরুত্বের ওপর আলোকপাত করে। মেডিক্যাল সেশনটি শুরু হয় মস্তিষ্ক ও মেরুদণ্ডের অবস্থার প্রাথমিক সতর্কতামূলক লক্ষণ যেমন টানা পিঠের ব্যথা, দুর্বলতা, অসাড়তা, ভারসাম্যের অভাব, দীর্ঘস্থায়ী মাথাব্যথা এবং কথা বলা বা দৃষ্টিশক্তিতে পরিবর্তনের বিষয়ে বিশেষজ্ঞদের মতামত শুনে। তাঁরা জোর দিয়ে বলেন যে, প্রাথমিক পরামর্শ এবং সময়মতো রোগ নির্ণয় চিকিৎসার সাফল্য এবং জীবনের মান উল্লেখযোগ্যভাবে উন্নত করতে পারে। প্যানেলটি বর্তমানে উপলব্ধ চিকিৎসার বিস্তৃত বিকল্প নিয়ে আলোচনা করেছে, যার মধ্যে রয়েছে কনজারভেটিভ ম্যানেজমেন্ট, ন্যূনতম আক্রমণাত্মক মেরুদণ্ডের অস্ত্রোপচার এবং উন্নত মস্তিষ্কের অস্ত্রোপচারের কৌশল। বিশেষজ্ঞরা ব্যাখ্যা করেছেন যে, চিকিৎসার সিদ্ধান্তগুলি অত্যন্ত ব্যক্তিনির্ভর এবং তা রোগীর অবস্থা, সামগ্রিক স্বাস্থ্য এবং রোগের তীব্রতার ওপর নির্ভর করে।
মেরুদণ্ডের অস্ত্রোপচারের বিবর্তন সম্পর্কে বলতে গিয়ে বিশেষজ্ঞরা প্রচলিত ওপেন সার্জারি থেকে ন্যূনতম আক্রমণাত্মক পদ্ধতির দিকে একটি স্পষ্ট পরিবর্তনের কথা উল্লেখ করেছেন, যা টিস্যুর ক্ষতি, রক্তক্ষরণ, হাসপাতালে থাকার সময়কাল এবং সুস্থ হইয়ে ওঠার সময় কমিয়ে দেয়। উন্নত ইমেজিং এবং নেভিগেশন প্রযুক্তির সংযোজন অস্ত্রোপচারের নির্ভুলতা এবং নিরাপত্তাকে আরও বাড়িয়ে তুলেছে। মস্তিষ্কের অস্ত্রোপচারের অগ্রগতির বিষয়ে বক্তারা তুলে ধরেন যে কীভাবে নেভিগেশন-নির্ভুল এবং এন্ডোস্কোপিক কৌশলগুলি সার্জনদের মস্তিষ্কের গুরুত্বপূর্ণ কাঠামোর ঝুঁকি কমিয়ে আরও নির্ভুলভাবে অস্ত্রোপচার করতে সাহায্য করে। এই উদ্ভাবনগুলি উন্নত ফলাফল, দ্রুত পুনরুদ্ধার এবং সামগ্রিকভাবে রোগীদের আরও ভালো অভিজ্ঞতা দিতে অবদান রাখে। সেশনটি একটি ইন্টারেক্টিভ মিডিয়া ডিসকাশনের মাধ্যমে শেষ হয়, যেখানে বিশেষজ্ঞরা রোগীর শিক্ষা, নিরাপত্তা এবং তথ্যসমৃদ্ধ সিদ্ধান্ত গ্রহণের গুরুত্ব পুনর্ব্যক্ত করেন। যদিও উন্নত প্রযুক্তি চিকিৎসার সম্ভাবনাকে প্রসারিত করে, চিকিৎসকরা জোর দিয়ে বলেন যে প্রতিটি রোগীর অস্ত্রোপচারের প্রয়োজন হয় না এবং বিশেষজ্ঞের মূল্যায়ন অপরিহার্য। এই উদ্যোগের লক্ষ্য হল মস্তিষ্ক এবং মেরুদণ্ডের স্বাস্থ্য সম্পর্কে জনসচেতনতা বৃদ্ধি করা এবং রোগীদের সময়মতো চিকিৎসার পরামর্শ নিতে উৎসাহিত করা। দাবিত্যাগ: মেডট্রনিক কর্তৃক জনস্বার্থে শুধুমাত্র সাধারণ তথ্য এবং সচেতনতার উদ্দেশ্যে জারি করা হয়েছে। এই তথ্যের কোনো কিছুই চিকিৎসা পরামর্শ হিসেবে বিবেচিত নয়। রোগীদের তাদের উপসর্গ এবং শারীরিক অবস্থার জন্য চিকিৎসকের পরামর্শ নেওয়া উচিত।

Kolkata: In a kind event, leading Neurosurgeons and spine specialists, Dr. Anindya Basu & Dr. Milind Deogaonkar, came together today to discuss the growing burden of brain and spine disorders and how rapid advancements in surgical techniques are transforming patient outcomes. The expert-led interaction focused on early symptom recognition, evolving treatment options, and the shift from traditional open surgeries to minimally invasive and technology-enabled procedures. At the opening of the medical session, experts emphasized the importance of recognizing early warning signs of brain and spinal conditions, such as persistent back pain, weakness, numbness, imbalance, chronic headaches, and changes in speech or vision. Early consultation and timely diagnosis, they emphasized, can significantly improve treatment success and quality of life. The panel discussed a wide range of treatment options available today, including conservative management, minimally invasive spine surgery, and advanced brain surgery techniques. Specialists explained that treatment decisions are highly individualized and depend on the patient’s condition, overall health, and disease severity.
Speaking on the evolution of spine surgery, the experts noted a clear shift from traditional open procedures to minimally invasive approaches that reduce tissue damage, blood loss, hospital stay, and recovery time. The integration of advanced imaging and navigation technologies has further enhanced surgical precision and safety. Addressing advances in brain surgery, the speakers highlighted that navigation-guided and endoscopic techniques enable surgeons to operate with greater accuracy while minimizing risk to critical brain structures. These innovations have contributed to improved outcomes, faster recovery, and better overall patient experience. The session concluded with an interactive media discussion, where experts reiterated the importance of patient education, safety, and informed decision-making. While advanced technologies have expanded treatment possibilities, the doctors stressed that not every patient requires surgery and that expert evaluation remains essential. This initiative aims to raise public awareness about brain and spine health and empower patients to seek timely medical advice. Disclaimer: Issued in Public Interest by Medtronic for general information and awareness purposes only. Nothing in this communication is meant to be medical advice. Patients should consult with their physician about their symptoms and conditions.

SHILPANEER NEWSPAPER

ফর্টিস হাসপাতাল ও কিডনি ইনস্টিটিউট রোবট-সহায়তায় সফল টেলি-সার্জারি করলো / Fortis Hospital & Kidney Institute performs Robot-aided Tele-Surgeries – Successfully treats 3 patients with Complex Urological Conditions Surgeries conducted robotically in Kolkata, while operating surgeons were nearly 1,500 km away –

কলকাতা : কলকাতার ফোর্টিস হাসপাতাল ও কিডনি ইনস্টিটিউট পূর্ব ভারতের প্রথম রোবট-সহায়তাপ্রাপ্ত টেলি-সার্জারি সফলভাবে সম্পাদন করে উন্নত রোবোটিক এবং দূরবর্তী অস্ত্রোপচারের ক্ষেত্রে একটি বড় সাফল্য অর্জন করেছে। এই পদ্ধতিগুলি অত্যাধুনিক SSI মন্ত্র 3 রোবট-সহায়তাপ্রাপ্ত অস্ত্রোপচার ব্যবস্থা ব্যবহার করে একটি উচ্চ-গতির ডেডিকেটেড 5G ইন্টারনেট সংযোগের মাধ্যমে পরিচালিত হয়েছিল, যেখানে প্রায় 1,500 কিলোমিটার দূর থেকে সার্জনরা অপারেট করেছিলেন। এই অস্ত্রোপচারগুলি তিনটি স্থানে পরিচালিত হয়েছিল – কলকাতা এবং ফরিদাবাদ – এবং নয়াদিল্লি এবং কলকাতা থেকে পরিচালিত চিকিৎসকরা টেলি-সার্জারির মাধ্যমে রোবটিকভাবে সম্পাদন করেছিলেন।

এই পদ্ধতিগুলি পরিচালনা করেন ডাঃ আর. কে. গোপালা কৃষ্ণ, ডিরেক্টর- ইউরোলজি এবং ইউরো-অনকোলজি, ডিরেক্টর – ইউরোলজি ডাঃ শ্রীনিবাস নারায়ণ – ফর্টিস হাসপাতাল এবং কিডনি ইনস্টিটিউট, কলকাতা । তিনটি জটিল পদ্ধতি রোবোটিক প্রযুক্তির নির্ভুলতা এবং ভারতে টেলি-সার্জিক্যাল সিস্টেমের ক্লিনিক্যাল নির্ভরযোগ্যতা প্রদর্শন করে। এটি দেশের ডিজিটাল স্বাস্থ্যসেবা পরিকাঠামোর ক্রমবর্ধমান শক্তি এবং ভৌগোলিক বাধা অতিক্রম করে বিশেষজ্ঞ অস্ত্রোপচার সেবা প্রদানের জন্য নতুন সম্ভাবনাকেও তুলে ধরে।

প্রথম ক্ষেত্রে কলকাতার একজন মধ্যবয়সী মহিলার সাথে জড়িত ছিল যার প্রধান রক্তনালী এবং গুরুত্বপূর্ণ অঙ্গগুলির কাছে একটি বৃহৎ অ্যাড্রিনাল টিউমার ছিল। দূরবর্তী রোবোটিক সার্জারির মাধ্যমে টিউমারটি ব্যতিক্রমী নির্ভুলতার সাথে অপসারণ করা হয়েছিল। দ্বিতীয় পদ্ধতিটি ছিল পেলভিউরেটেরিক জংশন (PUJ) বাধা, যা কিডনি নিষ্কাশনকে প্রভাবিত করে এমন একটি জন্মগত বাধা। দলটি একটি উন্নত পুনর্গঠনমূলক পদ্ধতি – পাইলোপ্লাস্টি – সম্পাদন করে যার জন্য দীর্ঘ দূরত্বের সেটআপ সত্ত্বেও সূক্ষ্ম সেলাই এবং উচ্চ নির্ভুলতার প্রয়োজন ছিল।

উভয় ক্ষেত্রেই, রোগীরা কলকাতায় ছিলেন, যখন ডাক্তাররা দিল্লিতে ছিলেন। রোগীরা ইতিমধ্যেই অন্তর্নিহিত স্বাস্থ্য চ্যালেঞ্জের সাথে মোকাবিলা করছিলেন, এবং তাদের অবস্থা আরও খারাপ হতে শুরু করার সাথে সাথে, চিকিৎসার জন্য দিল্লিতে দীর্ঘ দূরত্ব ভ্রমণ করা চিকিৎসাগতভাবে পরামর্শ দেওয়া হয়নি এবং তাদের অবস্থার আরও অবনতি হতে পারে।

তৃতীয় ক্ষেত্রে, ফরিদাবাদের একজন ৭০ বছর বয়সী ব্যক্তির ৯ সেমি ক্যান্সারযুক্ত কিডনি টিউমার ধরা পড়ে এবং তিনি ভ্রমণ করতে অক্ষম হন। ভার্চুয়াল মূল্যায়নের পরে, তার একটি টেলি-রোবোটিক আংশিক নেফ্রেক্টমি করা হয়েছিল। অবশিষ্ট কিডনি সংরক্ষণ করে টিউমারটি অপসারণ করা হয়েছিল। স্থায়ী ক্ষতি রোধ করার জন্য কঠোর ৩০ মিনিটের ক্ল্যাম্প উইন্ডো সহ, সার্জিক্যাল টিম ২২ মিনিটের মধ্যে টিউমার অপসারণ এবং পুনর্গঠন সম্পন্ন করে। রোগীর রক্ত সঞ্চালনের প্রয়োজন হয়নি, মসৃণভাবে বের করে আনা হয়েছে এবং তিনি সুস্থ হয়ে উঠছেন এবং ২-৩ দিনের মধ্যে স্রাবের আশা করা হচ্ছে। এটি ভারতে এই আকারের টিউমারের জন্য প্রথম অত্যন্ত জটিল টেলি-রোবোটিক আংশিক নেফ্রেক্টমিগুলির মধ্যে একটি।

তিনটি অস্ত্রোপচারই সফলভাবে সম্পন্ন হয়েছে, অস্ত্রোপচার পরবর্তী সুস্থতা মসৃণভাবে নিশ্চিত করা হয়েছে। রোগীরা ন্যূনতম আক্রমণাত্মক রোবোটিক সার্জারির সুবিধা পেয়েছেন, যার মধ্যে রয়েছে ব্যথা হ্রাস, রক্তক্ষরণ কম, দ্রুত আরোগ্য এবং হাসপাতালে স্বল্প সময় থাকা। এই অর্জন আধুনিক স্বাস্থ্যসেবা প্রদানের ক্ষেত্রে একটি রূপান্তরমূলক পদক্ষেপ এবং পূর্ব ভারতের এই স্কেলের প্রথম সফল টেলি-সার্জিক্যাল পদ্ধতি। বিস্তারিত বিবরণ দিতে গিয়ে, কলকাতার ফর্টিস হাসপাতাল ও কিডনি ইনস্টিটিউটের ইউরোলজি ও ইউরো-অনকোলজির ডিরেক্টর ডাঃ আর. কে. গোপালা কৃষ্ণ বলেন, “টেলি-সার্জারি সার্জনদের রোবট-সহায়তাপ্রাপ্ত সিস্টেম, উচ্চ-গতির সংযোগ এবং রিয়েল-টাইম 3D ইমেজিং ব্যবহার করে দূর থেকে কাজ করার সুযোগ করে দেয়। এটি ভৌগোলিক বাধা অতিক্রম করতে সাহায্য করে, রোগীর ভ্রমণের প্রয়োজনীয়তা হ্রাস করে, সংক্রমণের ঝুঁকি হ্রাস করে, অস্ত্রোপচারের নির্ভুলতা বৃদ্ধি করে এবং দ্রুত পুনরুদ্ধার সক্ষম করে। এই প্রযুক্তি বিশেষজ্ঞ সার্জনের অভাব পূরণ করে এবং আর্থিক বোঝা এবং ভ্রমণ-সম্পর্কিত ঝুঁকি হ্রাস করে সময়োপযোগী, উচ্চ-মানের অস্ত্রোপচার সেবা নিশ্চিত করে।”

কলকাতার ফর্টিস হাসপাতাল ও কিডনি ইনস্টিটিউটের ইউরোলজি ও ইউরো-অনকোলজির ডিরেক্টর ডাঃ শ্রীনিবাস নারায়ণ বলেন, “রোবোটিক টেলিসার্জারি একটি ভবিষ্যৎ ধারণা থেকে একটি ক্লিনিক্যালি নির্ভরযোগ্য এবং রোগী-নিরাপদ বাস্তবতায় বিকশিত হয়েছে। প্রায় 1,500 কিলোমিটার দূর থেকে জটিল পদ্ধতি সম্পাদনের জন্য সাইট এবং দূরবর্তী দলগুলির মধ্যে উন্নত প্রযুক্তি, নির্ভুলতা, সমন্বয় এবং বিশ্বাসের প্রয়োজন। এই অস্ত্রোপচারের সাফল্য প্রমাণ করে যে বিশ্বমানের অস্ত্রোপচার সেবার ক্ষেত্রে দূরত্ব আর বাধা নয়।” ফর্টিস হেলথকেয়ারের জয়পুর ও কলকাতার বিজনেস হেড, ইএসজি গ্রুপ হেড, স্ট্র্যাটেজি চিফ, মিসেস রিচা এস দেবগুপ্ত বলেন, “পূর্ব ভারতের প্রথম রোবোটিক টেলি-সার্জারি এই অঞ্চলে স্বাস্থ্যসেবার জন্য একটি সংজ্ঞায়িত মুহূর্ত। উন্নত রোবোটিক সিস্টেমগুলিকে অত্যন্ত দক্ষ ক্লিনিকাল টিমের সাথে একত্রিত করে, আমরা নিরাপদ, আরও সুনির্দিষ্ট এবং অ্যাক্সেসযোগ্য অস্ত্রোপচার সেবা নিশ্চিত করছি। এই অর্জন দীর্ঘ দূরত্বের ভ্রমণের বোঝা ছাড়াই উন্নত, অ্যাক্সেসযোগ্য স্বাস্থ্যসেবা প্রদানের আমাদের দৃষ্টিভঙ্গিকে আরও শক্তিশালী করে।”

Kolkata, 6th March 2026: Fortis Hospital & Kidney Institute, Kolkata, has achieved a breakthrough in advanced robotic and remote surgical care by successfully performing Eastern India’s first robot-aided tele-surgeries. The procedures were conducted using the cutting-edge SSI Mantra 3 robot-aided surgical system over a high-speed dedicated 5G internet connection, with operating surgeons located nearly 1,500 km away. The surgeries were conducted across three locations — Kolkata and Faridabad — and were performed robotically through telesurgery by clinicians operating from New Delhi and Kolkata.

The procedures were led by Dr. R. K. Gopala Krishna, Director – Urology & Uro-Oncology, and Dr. Shrinivas Narayan, Director – Urology, Fortis Hospital & Kidney Institute, Kolkata. The three complex procedures demonstrated the precision of robotic technology and the clinical reliability of tele-surgical systems in India. This also highlighted the growing strength of the country’s digital healthcare infrastructure and opened new possibilities for delivering expert surgical care across geographical barriers.

The first case involved a middle-aged woman from Kolkata with a large adrenal tumour located near major blood vessels and vital organs. The tumour was removed with exceptional precision through remote robotic surgery. The second procedure was on a young woman diagnosed with pelviureteric junction (PUJ) obstruction, a congenital blockage affecting kidney drainage. The team performed an advanced reconstructive procedure—pyeloplasty—requiring fine suturing and high precision despite the long-distance setup.

In both cases, the patients were in Kolkata, while the doctors were based in Delhi. The patients were already dealing with underlying health challenges, and as their conditions began to worsen, travelling long distances to Delhi for treatment was not medically advisable and could have further deteriorated their condition.

In the third case, a 70-year-old man from Faridabad was diagnosed with a 9 cm cancerous kidney tumour and was unable to travel. Following a virtual evaluation, he underwent a Tele-Robotic Partial Nephrectomy. The tumour was removed while preserving the remaining kidney. With a strict 30-minute clamp window to prevent permanent damage, the surgical team completed tumour removal and reconstruction within 22 minutes. The patient required no blood transfusion, was extubated smoothly, and is recovering well with discharge expected within 2–3 days. This marks one of the first highly complex tele-robotic partial nephrectomies in India for a tumour of this size.

All three surgeries were completed with a smooth post-operative recovery. The patients benefited from minimally invasive robotic surgery, including reduced pain, minimal blood loss, faster healing, and shorter hospital stays. This achievement represents a transformative step in modern healthcare delivery and marks Eastern India’s first successful tele-surgical procedures of this scale.

Giving details of the cases, Dr. R. K. Gopala Krishna, Director – Urology & Uro-Oncology, Fortis Hospital & Kidney Institute, Kolkata, said, “Tele-surgery allows surgeons to operate remotely using robot-aided systems, high-speed connectivity, and real-time 3D imaging. It helps overcome geographical barriers, reduces the need for patient travel, lowers infection risks, enhances surgical accuracy, and enables faster recovery. This technology addresses the shortage of specialized surgeons and ensures timely, high-quality surgical care while reducing financial burden and travel-related risks.”

Dr. Shrinivas Narayan, Director, Urology & Uro-Oncology at Fortis Hospital & Kidney Institute, Kolkata, said, “Robotic telesurgery has evolved from a futuristic concept into a clinically reliable and patient-safe reality. Performing complex procedures from nearly 1,500 kilometres away requires advanced technology, precision, coordination, and trust between on-site and remote teams. The success of these surgeries proves that distance is no longer a barrier to world-class surgical care.”

Ms. Richa S Debgupta, Executive Vice President, Chief of Strategy, Group Head ESG, Business Head Jaipur and Kolkata, Fortis Healthcare, said, “Eastern India’s first robotic tele-surgeries mark a defining moment for healthcare in the region. By combining advanced robotic systems with highly skilled clinical teams, we are ensuring safer, more precise, and accessible surgical care. This achievement reinforces our vision of delivering advanced, accessible healthcare without the burden of long-distance travel.”

SHILPANEER NEWSPAPER

Captain Eze’s strike seals three points for 10-man Jamshedpur

Jamshedpur FC – 1 (Stephen Eze 57’) Inter Kashi FC – 0

Jamshedpur, Friday, March 6, 2026: A second-half strike from captain Stephen Eze guided 10-man Jamshedpur FC to a 1-0 victory over Inter Kashi FC in Indian Super League 2025-26 at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur on Friday, March 6, 2026. The Men of Steel secured their fourth consecutive victory of the campaign to remain second in the standings with 12 points, trailing leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant only on goal difference. Inter Kashi, meanwhile, remains sixth with five points after their first defeat of the season. Eze was adjudged the Player of the Match for his performance. Jamshedpur FC head coach Owen Coyle named an unchanged starting XI following the 2-1 win against East Bengal FC. Inter Kashi head coach Antonio Habas made one alteration, introducing right-back Prasanth Karuthadathkuni in place of Narender.

Vincy Barretto of Jamshedpur FC & Sandip Mandi of Inter Kashiduring match 22 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Jamshedpur FC and Inter Kashi FC at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur on 6th March 2026. Photo: Abhinav Ashish Aind/Focus Sports/ ISL

Stephen Eze of Jamshedpur FC goal celebration during match 22 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Jamshedpur FC and Inter Kashi FC at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur on 6th March 2026. Photo: Abhinav Ashish Aind/Focus Sports/ ISL

Pratik Chowdhary of Jamshedpur FC during match 22 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Jamshedpur FC and Inter Kashi FC at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur on 6th March 2026. Photo: Abhinav Ashish Aind/Focus Sports/ ISL

Vincy Barretto of Jamshedpur FC Red Card during match 22 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Jamshedpur FC and Inter Kashi FC at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur on 6th March 2026. Photo: Abhinav Ashish Aind/Focus Sports/ ISL

Jamshedpur created the first opening in the ninth minute when Stephen Eze met Nikola Stojanović’s free-kick with a header inside the box, but the effort drifted wide. Raphael Bouli tried his luck from distance in the 16th minute, firing wide after being set up by Nikhil Barla following a quick transition. Inter Kashi responded soon after, with Alfred Planas coming close in the 17th minute as his left-footed strike from the centre of the box narrowly missed the target. The game took a dramatic turn in the 18th minute when Jamshedpur winger Vincy Barretto was shown a straight red card for a high challenge on Sandip Mandi, leaving the hosts to continue with ten men. Inter Kashi looked to capitalise on their numerical advantage, with Tomba Singh, Nishchal Chandan, and Sumeet Passi increasing the pressure on the home side.

Despite being a man down, Jamshedpur nearly took the lead in the 29th minute when Madih Talal’s curling free-kick from distance sailed just over the top corner. Rohit Danu also went close for Inter Kashi shortly after, heading wide from a cross by Passi. Inter Kashi continued to threaten in the closing stages of the half. Tomba’s effort from outside the box was blocked before goalkeeper Gomes produced an outstanding save to deny Prasanth in the 44th minute. The first half ended goalless despite sustained pressure from the visitors.

Inter Kashi resumed the second half on the front foot, with Tomba’s long-range strike drifting narrowly wide in the 50th minute. Prasanth also attempted a shot from the right side of the box four minutes later but failed to find the target. Jamshedpur broke the deadlock in the 57th minute through a set-piece. Madih Talal delivered a wonderful curling free-kick into the box, which found Stephen Eze in space, and the captain guided the ball into the net with his thigh to give the hosts a 1-0 lead. Inter Kashi pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but Gomes remained alert, producing several important saves to keep his side ahead.

The hosts nearly doubled their advantage in the 74th minute when Bouli struck the post following a swift counterattack set up by Talal. Inter Kashi responded with Nishchal heading wide from a corner before Tomba Singh again tested Gomes from distance. Petkevičius came close in the 83rd minute but dragged his effort wide as Inter Kashi continued to search for a breakthrough. Jamshedpur also threatened late on, with substitute Rei Tachikawa and Rosenberg Gabriel both seeing their efforts denied. However, Inter Kashi were unable to find the finishing touch in the closing stages. The final whistle confirmed a determined 1-0 victory for Jamshedpur FC, with captain Eze’s decisive strike helping the ten-man side remain unbeaten and secure all three points.

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Gokulam Kerala face Namdhari FC, and Chanmari host Sreenidi Deccan in Saturday’s IFL double-header, Manjeri/Aizawl.

Friday, March 6, 2026: Former champions Gokulam Kerala FC will face Namdhari Sports Academy in the Indian Football League 2025-26 at the Payyanad Stadium in Manjeri, with the kick-off scheduled for 16:00 IST. Later in the evening, newly-promoted Chanmari FC will take on Sreenidi Deccan FC at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Aizawl in an 18:30 IST kick-off. Both matches will be telecast live on DD Sports and streamed on the Waves app and Prasar Bharati YouTube channel.

Gokulam Kerala FC vs Namdhari FC

Gokulam Kerala FC, who will be playing their home games at the Payyanad Stadium in Manjeri instead of their usual EMS Corporation Stadium in Kozhikode, will hope to put on a better performance than their opening match of the season in front of a home crowd.

The Malabarians, who were one of the most consistent attacking sides last season, finishing fourth with 45 goals, currently have one point after a goalless opening-day draw against Chanmari FC. Despite dominating possession under head coach Derick Pereira and creating chances, they were unable to break the deadlock. Reflecting on the opener, Pereira stated, “The first match is always difficult in a league. The team did really well. We could have been a bit more clinical. We need to improve, but overall, the performance was really good. I am okay with the performance but not happy with the result.” Returning to their home turf, veteran goalkeeper Shibin Raj Kunniyil anticipates a massive boost. “The fans will motivate us tremendously. I hope we will get a positive result in front of our home fans,” he said. Backed by this support, the two-time I-League champions will be desperate to find their clinical attacking rhythm and secure the points.

Standing in their way are Namdhari FC, who also arrive with one point following a 1-1 draw against Aizawl FC in their season opener. Trailing for most of the match, Namdhari secured a vital point thanks to Senegalese striker Abdoulaye Diallo, who tapped in a 96th-minute equaliser after a snapshot from Lotjem hit the upright. Head coach Harpreet Singh acknowledged their initial struggles, stating, “It was a very close game. It’s been a long time since we played professional football. We were a bit rusty, but we settled down nicely in the second half.” Acknowledging the daunting task ahead in Manjeri, he added, “It will be really difficult against Gokulam playing on their home turf with the intimidating support. They have a very good squad. Their coach has a lot of experience with Indian football. We need to be at our best.”

Adding a fascinating layer to this matchup is the tactical and historical context. Anticipating the physical challenge, Pereira noted that Namdhari “plays a typical Punjabi brand of football”. However, he cautioned that it is “too early to assess any team in the competition”. Historically, the head-to-head record slightly favours the visitors overall. In their four previous I-League encounters, Namdhari FC holds an edge with two wins to Gokulam’s one, alongside one draw and a narrow 7-6 aggregate goal advantage. However, Gokulam Kerala will draw massive confidence from their most recent meeting on March 17, 2025, which they won 3–1. Hosts, Gokulam Kerala, will be keen to build on the momentum of that recent 3-1 victory and make a strong impression at home, while Namdhari FC will look to draw on their overall historical advantage in what is expected to be a closely fought contest.

Chanmari FC vs Sreenidi Deccan FC

In the evening fixture, newly promoted Chanmari FC steps into the IFL spotlight at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, backed by their passionate local crowd. The Mizoram-based club, runners-up in I-League 2 last season, opened their top-flight account by securing a hard-fought draw against heavyweights Gokulam Kerala. Fielding an all-Indian starting XI comprising entirely of players from Mizoram, Chanmari showcased immense defensive discipline and chemistry. With goalkeeper Zothanmawia making crucial saves and attackers like Aron Vanlalrinchhana looking dangerous on the counter.

Sreenidi Deccan FC have always been perennial title contenders who are known for their structured approach. Unlike their opponents, Sreenidi Deccan travel to Aizawl, sitting pretty on three points after navigating a tricky opening weekend fixture against fellow debutants Diamond Harbour FC. Carlos Manuel Vaz Pinto’s side emerged with a 1-0 victory thanks to a 60th-minute strike from Cameroonian midfielder Fabrice Kah. Despite their opening win, head coach Carlos Manuel Vaz Pinto remains cautious of the challenge posed by the newly-promoted side. “Chanmari are new in the league. They are an unknown entity, and these types of opponents are always tough. They are playing really well. We need to do the things right,” Vaz Pinto noted.

Acknowledging the gruelling nature of the campaign, he added, “The league is very competitive. We will be facing challenges in every match. We need to be ready and adapt. We have to overcome all the challenges if we are to be the best in the league.” Echoing his coach’s focus, Sreenidi Deccan midfielder Brandon Vanlalremdika acknowledged the home side’s momentum while reiterating their sole objective. “They will be motivated after drawing against Gokulam,” he stated. “As a team, we are focused on getting the three points.” Hosts Chanmari will look to continue their impressive start, while Sreenidi Deccan will rely on their vast experience to secure three points and take an early lead in the IFL table in what will be the first-ever meeting between the two sides.

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Maclaren’s four-goal haul powers Mohun Bagan past Odisha

Mohun Bagan Super Giant – 5 (Jamie Maclaren 14’, 24’, 45’+2, 88’; Alberto Rodríguez 42′)

Odisha FC – 1 (Rahim Ali, 43)

Kolkata, Friday, March 6, 2026: A sensational four-goal performance from Jamie Maclaren powered Mohun Bagan Super Giant to a commanding 5-1 victory over Odisha FC in Indian Super League 2025-26 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Friday, March 6, 2026. The Mariners registered their fourth consecutive victory to remain on top of the standings with 12 points, while Odisha FC remains ninth with two points. Maclaren was adjudged the Player of the Match after contributing to three goals in the opening half and finishing with four on the night.

Mohun Bagan head coach Sergio Lobera made four changes to his starting XI, bringing in captain Subhasish Bose and Mehtab Singh in defence, Liston Colaco in midfield, and Australian Dimitri Petratos in attack. Odisha FC head coach T.G. Purushothaman made a solitary change in defence, introducing Saurabh Bhanwala in place of Saviour Gama. Odisha threatened early from a set-piece in the third minute when centre back Rohit Kumar rose to meet Lalthathanga Khawlhring’s corner but headed over from close range. Mohun Bagan responded immediately, with Liston Colaco firing just over from distance before Abhishek Singh tested Amrinder Singh with a long-range effort in the 11th minute. The hosts broke the deadlock in the 14th minute with a well-worked move. Dimitri Petratos played a clever backheel to left back Subhasish on the left flank, and the captain delivered a precise cross into the box where Jamie Maclaren rose unmarked to guide a header into the net and give Mohun Bagan a 1-0 lead.

Rahim Ali of Odisha FC celebrates a goal during match 23 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between MBSG and OFC at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan at Salt lake in Kolkata on 6th March 2026. Photo: Dipayan Bose /Focus Sports/ ISL

Lalengmawia of Mohun Bagan Super Giant during match 23 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between MBSG and OFC at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan at Salt lake in Kolkata on 6th March 2026. Photo: Dipayan Bose /Focus Sports/ ISL

Lalthathanga Khawlhring of Odisha FC during match 23 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between MBSG and OFC at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan at Salt lake in Kolkata on 6th March 2026. Photo: Dipayan Bose /Focus Sports/ ISL

Jamie Maclaren of Mohun Bagan Super Giant scores a goal and celebrates during match 23 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between MBSG and OFC at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan at Salt lake in Kolkata on 6th March 2026. Photo: Dipayan Bose /Focus Sports/ ISL

Jason Steven Cummings of Mohun Bagan Super Giant during match 23 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between MBSG and OFC at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan at Salt lake in Kolkata on 6th March 2026. Photo: Dipayan Bose /Focus Sports/ ISL

Maclaren nearly doubled the advantage in the 19th minute but saw his effort comfortably gathered by Amrinder Singh. However, the Australian striker made no mistake five minutes later. Petratos switched play to Colaco on the right, who picked out Maclaren in the centre of the box. The forward had ample space to slot a composed right-footed finish past the goalkeeper to make it 2-0 in the 24th minute. The Mariners continued to press and nearly added another when Maclaren’s effort from close range was blocked after being set up by Jason Cummings. The third goal arrived in the 42nd minute through centre-back Alberto Rodríguez, whose low left-footed strike from distance beat Odisha’s goalkeeper Amrinder Singh and rolled into the far corner. Odisha responded immediately against the run of play. Just a minute later, Thoiba Singh launched a long ball into the Mohun Bagan penalty area, where Rahim Ali controlled it calmly to beat Mariners keeper Vishal Kaith before slotting into the empty net to reduce the deficit to 3-1.

Mohun Bagan restored their three-goal cushion in stoppage time of the first half. Colaco broke down the right and delivered a dangerous ball across goal, allowing Maclaren to tap in from close range and complete his hat-trick as the hosts carried a commanding 4-1 lead into the interval. The second half began at a lively tempo with both sides searching for further goals. Colaco came close in the 53rd minute, his effort drifting narrowly wide after being set up by Cummings. At the other end, Isak Vanlalruatfela attempted a strike from the left side of the box but missed the target. Mohun Bagan continued to threaten from attacking positions, with Petratos firing just wide from the right side of the box in the 66th minute following a corner. Despite sustained pressure from the hosts, Odisha’s defence, marshalled by Amrinder Singh, managed to deny further opportunities for a long spell.

Odisha nearly pulled another goal back late in the game, but Kaith produced a strong save in the 87th minute to keep the visitors at bay. The Mariners added their fifth a minute later. Substitute Manvir Singh launched a long ball from midfield, which Maclaren collected near the edge of the penalty area before calmly finishing past Amrinder Singh to seal his fourth goal of the night and make it 5-1 in the 88th minute. Kaith made a series of saves in the closing stages to ensure the scoreline remained unchanged, as Mohun Bagan Super Giant secured a comprehensive 5-1 victory at the final whistle.

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Mohammedan Sporting hope to open account against Bengaluru; Winless Kerala Blasters and Chennaiyin cross swords

Kolkata/Kochi, Friday, March 6, 2026: Mohammedan Sporting Club will take on Bengaluru FC as both sides aim to secure a crucial victory in their Indian Super League 2025-26 encounter on Saturday, March 7, at the Kishore Bharti Krirangan in Kolkata. The match is scheduled to kick off at 17:00 IST. The second match of the day will see Kerala Blasters FC host Chennaiyin FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi, with the kick-off slated for 19:30 IST on Saturday. Both matches will be streamed live on FanCode and telecast on Sony Sports Ten 2.

MSC players during match 18 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Mohun Bagan Super Giants and Mohammedan SC at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan at Salt lake in Kolkata on 28th February 2026. Photo:Abhijit Addya /Focus Sports/ ISL

Kerala Blasters FC players warm up during Match 11 of the Indian Super League, played between Kerala Blasters FC and Inter Kashi FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kochi on 28th February 2026 Photo: Shibu Preman / Focus Sports / ISL

Bengaluru FC players Warming up before game during match 16 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Bengaluru FC and Punjab FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru on 27th February 2026. Photo: Baranidharan M / Focus Sports / ISL

Bengaluru FC Players Warming up during match 16 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Bengaluru FC and Punjab FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru on 27th February 2026. Photo: Baranidharan M / Focus Sports / ISL

Mohammedan SC vs Bengaluru FC

Mohammedan Sporting head into the fixture after suffering consecutive defeats, including a 1-5 loss to Mohun Bagan SG. The Black and White Brigade will be eager to bounce back and secure their first points of the season. The Black and Whites are currently sitting at the bottom of the table without a point from three matches, while the visitors are seventh with four points from three matches.

Mohammad Nawaz of Chennaiyin FC warms up before match 19 of the INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Odisha FC and Chennaiyin FC at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on 1st March 2026.
Photo: Satyabrata Mishra ISL

Mohammedan SC head coach Mehrajuddin Wadoo emphasised his team’s focus on the necessity of coping with the pressure of the ISL. “Every single match is tough in the Indian Super League. We are playing with an all-Indian squad. We need a bit of time to cope with the pressure and intensity. The team is constantly evolving and improving. Only three matches have been played. We need to play regularly to be competitive with the other ISL teams. We must be at our very best to compete and try to secure a positive result.” Mohammedan goalkeeper Padam Chettri said, “We need to spend more time together as a team. The results will definitely follow.”

Bengaluru FC, meanwhile, arrives in Kolkata aiming to bounce back from their first defeat of the ISL campaign. Renedy Singh’s men sit sixth in the standings with four points, coming off a disappointing 0-2 loss to Punjab FC. These sides have met twice previously in the ISL, sharing a perfectly balanced record of one win and two goals each. Mohammedan won their last meeting in January 2025, securing a 1-0 away victory in Bengaluru courtesy of Mirjalol Kasimov’s strike. Acknowledging the home support of the Mohammedan fans at the Kishore Bharti Krirangan and the need to convert possession into points, Bengaluru FC head coach Renedy Singh shared his views on the upcoming match.

“We need to score to win matches. The key is not to chase the game. We must defend well, stay compact, and then look for our chances to score. At the same time, we have to improve our defending from set-pieces,” said Singh. Bengaluru FC midfielder Vinith Venkatesh said, “The morale inside our dressing room is extremely high. Everyone is motivated to give their best and clinch three points. We want to win the next game and climb the points table. Against Punjab, we fought until the end and created chances, but we were not at our 100 per cent defensively. We need to stick to the plan as a team, and the results will follow. I am looking for every opportunity to help the team in both attack and defence.” Mohammedan SC will look to secure their first points of the season, while Bengaluru will hope to return to winning ways.

Kerala Blasters FC vs Chennaiyin FC

Kerala Blasters FC will look to bounce back and extend their dominance in the Southern Derby as they face Chennaiyin FC in a highly anticipated clash. The home side remains without a point after three matches and sits at the bottom of the standings. They enter the match on the back of a frustrating 1-2 defeat to debutants Inter Kashi FC. Reflecting on his team’s form and the emotional weight of playing at home, Kerala Blasters FC head coach David Català stressed the importance of maintaining a positive approach and intensity. “It is important to give everything with the right approach, stay positive, and show that we are better during the 90 minutes. Everyone wants immediate results, but that doesn’t happen every time. We are improving every day, and the energy and the intensity in the camp are constantly improving. It is very important to fight the adversities and come back.”

Kerala Blasters forward Víctor Bertomeu said, “I came here to be successful as a team first. I know the goals will come because I work hard every day, and my confidence is high. Scoring in the last game was a boost. Of course, winning individual awards would be special, but my ambition is to win matches with this team. We are improving every match, and we need to do the same to get the results.” Chennaiyin FC will head into the match searching for its first win of the campaign after a mixed start. Coming off a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Odisha FC, where Elsinho scored a crucial stoppage-time header to earn their first point of the season, the Marina Machans sit 11th in the table and will be desperate to build on that momentum in Kochi. Both teams have faced each other 24 times previously in the ISL. Kerala Blasters hold a slight edge with eight wins to Chennaiyin’s seven, alongside nine draws. The Blasters also dominated their last encounter in January 2025, securing a 3-1 away victory where Jesús Jiménez, Korou Singh, and Kwame Peprah scored for Kerala, while Vincy Barreto netted for Chennaiyin.

Speaking about the performances in the last three encounters, Chennaiyin FC head coach Clifford Miranda said, “Yes, we are facing challenges. We are in a process; we are getting certain things right, and some things are not going our way. We are lacking in the final phase. It will take some time, but there is no excuse to drop our standards in football. We have a fantastic squad, and we believe in them. These players have shown incredible professionalism to earn a hard-fought point against Odisha. We will not give up, we will fight in every match, and we are confident that with hard work and unity, this team will continue to improve and compete strongly in this league.” Chennaiyin FC goalkeeper Mohammad Nawaz said, “We are motivated to improve every game, stay focused on our plan, and put in a performance that reflects our character and determination. We need to follow the tactics and give our best.” Kerala Blasters FC will look to secure a result that will bring smiles to their passionate home fans, while Chennaiyin FC aims to stay compact and capitalise on transitions. With three important points at stake, the Southern Derby promises to be an intriguing contest.

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Mohun Bagan SG, Jamshedpur FC continue race for ISL summit Bhubaneswar/Jamshedpur

Thursday, March 5, 2026: Mohun Bagan Super Giant will aim to continue their winning streak when they face Odisha FC in Match 23 of the Indian Super League on Friday, March 6, at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata. The match is scheduled to kick off at 17:00 IST. Later in the day, Jamshedpur FC will also look for their fourth consecutive victory of the season when they face newly-promoted Inter Kashi at the JRD Tata Sports Complex. The match is scheduled to kick off at 19:30 IST. Both matches will be streamed live on FanCode and telecast on Sony Sports Ten. 2.

Jamie Maclaren of Mohun Bagan Super Giant during match 18 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Mohun Bagan Super Giants and Mohammedan SC at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan at Salt lake in Kolkata on 28th February 2026. Photo:Abhijit Addya /Focus Sports/ ISL

Lalengmawia Ralte of Mohun Bagan Super Giant during match 18 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Mohun Bagan Super Giants and Mohammedan SC at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan at Salt lake in Kolkata on 28th February 2026. Photo:Abhijit Addya /Focus Sports/ ISL

Raphael Eric Messi Bouli of Jamshedpur FC during match 15 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between East Bengal FC and Jamshedpur FC at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan at Salt lake in Kolkata on 27th February 2026. Photo:Abhijit Addya /Focus Sports/ ISL

Madih Talal of Jamshedpur FC during match 15 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between East Bengal FC and Jamshedpur FC at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan at Salt lake in Kolkata on 27th February 2026. Photo:Abhijit Addya /Focus Sports/ ISL

Inter Kashi FC players warm up during Match 11 of the Indian Super League, played between Kerala Blasters FC and Inter Kashi FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kochi on 28th February 2026 Photo: Shibu Preman / Focus Sports / ISL

Odisha FC warm up during match 13 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between OFC and IKFC at the Kalinga Stadium in Odisha on 24th February 2026. Photo: Santanu Biswas /Focus Sports/ ISL

Odisha FC vs Mohun Bagan SG

The Mariners have a superior head-to-head record against Odisha FC in the ISL, winning six times out of the 13 meetings, six matches ended in draws, and Odisha FC won once. Mohun Bagan head coach Sergio Lobera said, “We will not win if we think it will be easy. We need maximum respect for the opponents. Anything can happen in football,” Lobera said. “On paper, we might be favourites. However, we must prove it on the pitch. We will face problems if we lack absolute focus.” Mohun Bagan will look to continue their winning ways, while Odisha FC will hope for a resilient performance against the table toppers. The Juggernauts opened their campaign with consecutive draws, the previous fixture ending 1-1 against Chennaiyin FC. Captain Carlos Delgado rescued a point with a 68th-minute header. They are currently in ninth place in the table with two points.

Odisha will be up against current table toppers Mohun Bagan SG, who are looking for their fourth consecutive win, in their bid to remain top of the table. Odisha FC head coach TG Purushothaman stressed the need for an attacking drive. “We are improving. However, defensive solidity alone is not enough. We must be more decisive in the final third,” he said. “I focus on my team as usual. I focus on our attack, defence, and all-important areas. Let’s play for what we deserve. I hope we achieve it.” Odisha FC centre-back Thoiba Singh Moirangthem expects a battle. “It will be a tough game. It will test our midfield and defence. But we are ready. Every player wants to play these games.”

Jamshedpur FC vs Inter Kashi FC

In the second fixture of the day, Jamshedpur FC will hope to extend their brilliant start to the season against debutants Inter Kashi, who are unbeaten as well, albeit with two draws in three matches. The Men of Steel are currently second with nine points, trailing only on goal difference. In the previous fixture, they secured a dramatic 2-1 comeback win over East Bengal FC in Kolkata with Stephen Eze and Rei Tachikawa scoring the goals. Both teams have met each other once in the AIFF Super Cup, which Jamshedpur FC won 2-0.

Jamshedpur head coach Owen Coyle stressed the importance of a high work rate. “It is not always about scoring three or four goals. It is about discipline, hard work, and getting the result,” Coyle noted. ” Nine points from three games show our character. It shows the commitment of this group. We will face problems against a resilient Inter Kashi side if we lack focus. Overconfidence is dangerous. We must give everything with the right approach. Inter Kashi enter the match with the confidence of securing their first-ever ISL victory against Kerala Blasters in Kochi. They are currently sixth in the table with five points. Head coach Antonio Habas reflected on their recent performances. “We are the newest entrant in the ISL. We needed time to cope with the pressure and pace. However, our first win shows we can compete here,” Habas said. “We have a young, hard-working squad. We believe in them. These players have shown incredible professionalism. They show great defensive organisation. This team will continue to improve. We will compete strongly in this league.”

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East Bengal and FC Goa play out a goalless draw

East Bengal FC – 0 FC Goa – 0

Kolkata, Thursday, March 5, 2026: East Bengal FC and FC Goa played out a goalless draw in Match 22 of the Indian Super League 2025-26 season at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Thursday, March 5, 2026. The Gaurs are provisionally third in the table with eight points from four matches, while The Red and Gold Brigade are a place below with seven points from four matches. Miguel Ferreira was adjudged the player of the match.

Miguel Ferreira Damasceno of East Bengal FC during match 22 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between EEAST BENGAL FC VS FC GOA at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan at salt lake in kolkata on 5th March 2026. Photo:Abhijit Addya /Focus Sports/ ISL

Ayush Dev Chhetri of FC Goa during match 22 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between EEAST BENGAL FC VS FC GOA at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan at salt lake in kolkata on 5th March 2026. Photo:Abhijit Addya /Focus Sports/ ISL

Óscar Bruzón made two changes to the East Bengal starting eleven, handing the first starts of the season to Mohamad Rakip and Naorem Mahesh Singh in place of Jay Gupta and Anton Søjberg, while FC Goa head coach Manolo Márquez named an unchanged side. The visitors had the first look at the goal when Ishan Pandita ran in behind the defenders to reach a lobbed pass from Dejan Dražić, but centre back Anwar Ali made a crucial recovery tackle to deny the striker a shot. East Bengal then controlled possession of the ball in midfield as Goa were content to play on the counterattacks. The first real chance of the match came at the quarter-hour mark for East Bengal. Naorem Mahesh Singh played a perfectly weighted pass to Bipin Singh on the left wing. The winger delivered a pinpoint cross into the box for Youssef Ezzejjari, who was unmarked, but the striker skied his attempt over the crossbar.

Mohamad Basim Rashid of East Bengal FC during match 22 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between EEAST BENGAL FC VS FC GOA at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan at salt lake in kolkata on 5th March 2026. Photo:Abhijit Addya /Focus Sports/ ISL

Anton Sojberg of East Bengal FCduring match 22 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between EEAST BENGAL FC VS FC GOA at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan at salt lake in kolkata on 5th March 2026. Photo:Abhijit Addya /Focus Sports/ ISL

On the other end, Prabhsukhan Singh Gill expertly saved Brison Fernandes’ shot after the visitors carved open the defence with a slick move involving Ayush Dev Chhetri and Boris Singh. Moments later, Boris’ right-footed effort hit the post and came back as Goa enjoyed their best period of attack in the first half. The home side also came close to scoring when Mohamad Rashid hit the crossbar with a long-range effort. The midfielder’s powerful attempt went through the hands of the goalkeeper before striking the crossbar. Despite the goal attempts, both teams went into the half-time break with the score reading 0–0. The second half turned out to be a cagey affair, with chances at a premium as both teams solidified their defence, making it difficult for the attackers to create attempts on goal. Fresh legs were introduced by both coaches, but it did not change the way both teams approached the second half. FC Goa came closest to scoring after Abdul Rabeeh set up fellow substitute Raynier Fernandes at the edge of the box. The midfielder’s right-footed attempt sailed over the crossbar. In the end, both teams had to settle for a point each. East Bengal piled on the pressure in added time, but FC Goa held their composure to ensure the match ended in a first-ever stalemate between both sides.

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SENCO GOLD & DIAMONDS Launches SHAPE OF YOU AI Application for Women’s Day Celebration

A design-led innovation that interprets the language of the face to create a more intuitive and confident jewellery experience — beautifully framing the unique ‘shape of you.’

Kolkata, March 05, 2026 — In a world where words often take centre stage, Senco Gold & Diamonds – one of India’s leading pan-India jewellery retailers, with a legacy spanning over eighty-five years of trust – launches the Shape of You AI application in celebration of Women’s Day. Built on refined karigari, design integrity, and a deep understanding of Indian aesthetics, Senco’s legacy now enters a new era where design intelligence meets personal insight.

Shape of You marks Senco’s first expert-led styling initiative, redefining how customers choose jewellery by aligning it with their unique face shape and natural features. Rooted in the belief that every face is distinct — and so should be the jewellery that adorns it — this innovation seamlessly blends technology with personalised styling. It enables customers to discover designs that genuinely complement their individuality. At its core lies Senco’s understanding that jewellery today is not merely an ornament but an expression of identity and self.

For decades, jewellery has been chosen to complement what a woman wears. Now, Senco Gold & Diamonds invites women to choose jewellery that complements who they are. Introducing “The Shape of You” — an intuitive styling philosophy powered by technology — reimagining how jewellery is discovered, guided by the unique contours and character of each face. With The Shape of You, Senco Gold & Diamonds moves beyond conventional styling norms, placing the woman – not the trend – at the heart of design. The feature is now available across select Senco Gold & Diamonds showrooms and on the Senco app, offering women a more confident and considered way to choose jewellery. Commenting on the same, Joita Sen, Director & Head of Marketing and Design, Senco Gold and Diamonds, said, “Shape of You as an idea was conceived to enhance personal identity with technology led by design intuition. It is an innovation to help women understand themselves and their shapes better, so they can adorn themselves with jewellery that suits them best. It is an empowerment & personalisation tool for women. ” Commenting on the initiative, Suvankar Sen, MD & CEO, Senco Gold & Diamonds, said, “Often, women instinctively know when a piece of jewellery feels right, even if they cannot explain why. Shape of You is one of our many technology applications for better customer experience and driving unique service to customers—a one-of-a-kind and first in the jewellery industry.

This Women’s Day, Senco Gold & Diamonds also launched some exciting offers that are available across all our showrooms, which include special FLAT Rs 3000/- off per gm of gold jewellery buying (with up to a 15% making charges* discount to celebrate women’s day); 15% on diamond value & up to 75% off on making charges on purchase of all diamond jewellery (special offers for all women, girls, etc.); and up to 15% off on making charges (or MRP as applicable) of silver items (excluding coins) and a discount of up to 20% on leather items of Sennes, etc. Additionally, the Senco Gold & Diamonds website will have exciting online offers for the customers, which include up to 100% making charges off on buying gold, diamond, and platinum jewellery on March 08, 2026 (1-day offer ONLY).

About Senco Gold & Diamonds:

Senco Gold Ltd (Senco) is a leading pan-India jewellery retailer with a rich legacy spanning over 85 years and is the largest jewelry retailer in Eastern India by number of showrooms. The brand has been recognised as the 2nd Most Trusted Jewellery Brand by TRA for the fourth consecutive year and was also ranked among the Most Desired Jewellery Brands by TRA in 2024, outperforming several industry peers. Senco’s trailing twelve-month sales reached approximately ₹6,800 crore, demonstrating consistent year-on-year growth and reinforcing the brand’s strong market positioning. In October 2025, Senco Gold & Diamonds recorded its highest-ever retail sales of over ₹1,700 crore, registering a robust 56% YoY growth compared to October 2024. This performance included 60% YoY value growth in gold and 32% YoY value growth in diamonds. In terms of volume, the brand achieved 4% growth in gold, 5% growth in diamonds, and 8% growth in silver.

Currently, Senco operates 198+ showrooms across 17 states in India, along with two international showrooms in Dubai, UAE, through a combination of company-owned and franchisee models. The brand offers multiple retail formats—including Classic & Modern, D’Signia, Everlite, House of Senco, and Sennes—to cater to diverse customer segments and preferences. Senco Gold Ltd offers an extensive portfolio of jewellery across gold, diamond, silver, platinum, and precious and semi-precious stones. With a catalogue of over 156,000 gold jewellery designs and 86,000 diamond jewellery designs, the brand presents a wide range of handcrafted creations. Most designs are developed in-house by Senco’s design team, working closely with skilled local karigars in Kolkata and across India, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics.

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CII West Bengal Launches ‘GCC Council’ At State Annual Day

“Kolkata Offers Low Operating Costs & Exceptional Talent”: State’s Potential Takes Centre Stage

Kolkata’s growing relevance in India’s Global Capability Centre (GCC) ecosystem came into sharp focus at a special session themed ‘Bengal Poised to Lead: Kolkata: India’s Eastern Gateway for GCCs’ during the CII West Bengal Annual Meeting & Conference held in Kolkata on Monday. The discussion highlighted how India’s GCC landscape is entering a new phase, marked by stronger talent ecosystems, deeper leadership capabilities, and a clear shift toward long-term value creation. The session explored how best practices can be fostered, how collaboration between industry, academia, and government can be strengthened, and how policy advocacy, talent development, and innovation can further deepen the city’s GCC ecosystem.

A key highlight of the session was the unveiling of the CII-VisionSync Status Paper titled ‘Kolkata: India’s Eastern Gateway for GCCs’, which outlines a strategic roadmap for positioning the city as a preferred destination for global enterprises seeking sustainable and high-value operations. The session also witnessed the announcement of the CII West Bengal State GCC Council, which will serve as a dedicated platform to drive engagement, knowledge sharing, and policy advocacy for strengthening the GCC ecosystem in the region.

Mr. Rahul Singh, Vice President—Software Engineering, Visteon India, added, ‘Accessing talent was initially a significant challenge, but we have since implemented targeted recruitment strategies and partnerships with local educational institutions to enhance our talent pool. However, we were pleasantly surprised to find exceptional talent in Kolkata, enabling us to double our recruitment numbers. Increasingly, professionals are expressing a desire to return to the city.

We look forward to harnessing more such talent and contributing meaningfully to Kolkata’s economic growth through Global Capability Centers (GCCs). GCCs are specialized facilities that provide services and support to businesses, often focusing on specific functions, like IT or customer service.

Echoing the broader theme of opportunity creation and collaborative growth, industry leaders shared their perspectives on Kolkata’s emerging strengths and future potential. “Kolkata offers the advantage of low operating costs, which is highly conducive to scaling operations. Some of the country’s finest institutions produce exceptional talent that requires effective absorption, contributing to the city’s strong academic density. The availability of resources, robust digital connectivity, and a growing talent corridor make Kolkata an extremely valuable destination for Global Capability Centers (GCCs), which are specialized facilities that provide services and support to businesses globally. These pillars collectively position Kolkata as a compelling choice that must feature prominently on the GCC map,” noted Recha Paliwal, co-founder, VisionSync.

“Every place has its challenges; how we turn them around defines our value proposition. Kolkata holds distinct advantages in healthcare and engineering, along with significant investment and opportunities in the manufacturing sector. By fostering synergy across sectors and leveraging these strengths strategically, Kolkata can position itself for sustained and inclusive success,” highlighted Mr. Anirvan Mukherjee, Partner, NMDCon. Organizations must focus on hiring for value, not volume, and investing in nurturing talent to ensure stronger retention. This is an area that requires sustained attention and strategic focus,” stated Mr. Ratnadeep Banerjee, Site Head, Asia S/w R&D – Lexmark International (India) Pvt. Ltd. “Kolkata must define its own unique value proposition; it does not need to replicate models such as Pune or Bengaluru. A competitive yet collaborative ecosystem should be fostered to drive sustainable growth and innovation in the city,” said Mr. Sameek Roychoudhuri, SVP, Head of Global Risk Analytics, HSBC.

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Blue Tigresses suffer injury-time defeat against Vietnam in opening AFC Women’s Asian Cup match

Vietnam – 2 (Nguyen Thi Van Su 30’, 90+4’) India – 1 (Sanfida Nongrum 52′)

Perth, Australia, Wednesday, March 4, 2026: An injury-time goal condemned India to a 1-2 defeat against Vietnam in their first match in Group C of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 at the Perth Rectangular Stadium in Perth, Australia, on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.

Nguyen Thi Van Su (30’, 90+4’) scored in each half for Vietnam, while debutant Sanfida Nongrum (52’), who came off the bench in the second half, scored India’s lone goal. Vietnam controlled more of the possession in the opening exchanges, as India sat deep, looking to exploit openings in the opposition’s back line. India goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu Elangbam made an early save off Van Su, before India had their first opportunity in the eighth minute. Dangmei Grace chested down a high ball that fell in Sangita Basfore’s path. The latter, with time and space, struck it on the half-volley, but it was straight at the Vietnam goalkeeper Tran Thi Kim Thanh. In the 14th minute, a Sangita mispass afforded a golden opportunity to Vietnam, as Nguyen Thi Bich Thuy collected the ball and struck the crossbar from the edge of the area.

Panthoi made a few crucial saves in a period dominated by Vietnam, most notably keeping Bich Thuy out in the 27th minute with a sprawling save at the near post. Van Su opened the scoring three minutes later when she ran on to a ball by Thai Thi Thao, and curled it in from just inside the penalty area, putting Vietnam in the lead. India began to play long and wide into the Vietnamese half. Manisha found Grace with a trivela aerial pass, which the latter chested and then gave chase. Kim Thanh, however, collected it. India head coach Amelia Valverde made two changes at half-time, bringing on Sanfida for her debut, along with Rimpa Haldar. Grace and Soumya Guguloth, respectively, made way for them.

The side from Southeast Asia came out with some intent in the initial stages of the second half. Vietnam thought they had doubled the lead in the 49th minute, when a bit of confusion in the Indian penalty box saw Thi Thao put the ball in the net. She was, however, later deemed offside by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR). The Blue Tigresses’ half-time substitutions paid off soon enough, when debutant Sanfida levelled the score after Rimpa made a run from the left. While the ball was stolen from the latter, a deflection meant that the Vietnamese clearance landed in front of Sanfida, who was quick to react to it and blasted it past Kim Thanh with her left foot.

India gained a lot of confidence from that goal and began to push Vietnam back into their half. A Rimpa cross was met with a header from Pyari Xaxa, but it was saved just past the hour mark. Minutes later, Sanfida produced a header off a Nirmala Devi cross that went over. However, Vietnam slowly made its way back, creating chances down the wings. Panthoi stood strong through, pulling off a save from a Van Su effort in the 76th.

India had a half-chance in the second minute of injury time when Manisha went for goal from a long-range free-kick. While Vietnam goalkeeper Kim Thanh parried it, India substitute Kaviya Pakkirisamy, who was also given her debut off the bench, immediately gave chase. However, the Vietnamese custodian managed to get to the ball before the Indian forward. Ultimately, Vietnam won the match a couple of minutes later, when Van Su scored her second of the match. Receiving a cut-back from substitute Vi Thi Hoa, she slotted it home to snatch the victory at the end. India: Panthoi Chanu Elangbam (GK), Sweety Devi Ngangbam (C), Shilky Devi Hemam, Sangita Basfore, Soumya Guguloth (Rimpa Haldar 46’), Sanju Yadav, Pyari Xaxa (Kaviya Pakkirisamy 79’), Grace Dangmei (Sanfida Nongrum 46’), Nirmala Devi Phanjoubam, Martina Thokchom, and Manisha Kalyan (Lynda Kom Serto 90+2’).

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নবদ্বীপে গৌড়ীয় মঠে মহা ধুমধামে পালিত শ্রীচৈতন্যের আবির্ভাব মহোৎসব

ফাল্গুনের শেষপ্রহরে যখন বাংলার আকাশে রঙের উল্লাস, তখন গঙ্গাতীরবর্তী নবদ্বীপ যেন অন্য এক আবহে জেগে ওঠল, গৌড়ীয় মঠের দোলযাত্রা ও শ্রী চৈতন্যের আবির্ভাব মহোৎসবে। এ উপলক্ষে ভোর থেকেই শুরু হয় মঙ্গলআরতি,শঙ্খধ্বনি, ঘণ্টানাদ ও কীর্তনের সুরে মন্দিরপ্রাঙ্গণ মুখর হয়ে ওঠে। ফুল, আলোকসজ্জা ও বৈষ্ণব পতাকায় সজ্জিত হয় সমগ্র আশ্রম। ভক্তরা সাদা বা গেরুয়া বস্ত্রে, কপালে তিলক এঁকে, হাতে মালা নিয়ে নামজপে অংশ নেন। অনুষ্ঠীত হয় শ্রীচৈতন্যের মহা অভিষেক। শুধু নদীয়া জেলা নয়, রাজ্যের বিভিন্ন প্রান্ত, এমনকি দেশ-বিদেশ থেকেও আগত ভক্তরা এই উৎসবে যোগ দেন প্রদীপ যাত্রা অনুষ্ঠানে। গৌড়ীয় মিশনের আচার্য্য ও সভাপতি ভক্তি সুন্দর সন্নাসী মহারাজ বলেন, আজ থেকে ৫৪০ বছর আগে চন্দ্রগ্রহনের দিন মহাপ্রভুর আবির্ভাব হয়েছিল। এবছরও চন্দ্রগ্রহনের দিন তাই বিশেষ অনুষ্ঠানের মাধ্যমে মহাপ্রভুর আবির্ভাব তিথি পালিত হয়। মহাপ্রভুর ৫৪০তম আবির্ভাব বর্ষ উপলক্ষে ৫৪০ টি প্রদীপ প্রজ্জ্বলন ও বিশেষ প্রার্থনার আয়োজন করা হয়। লাল-সাদা বস্ত্র পরিহিত ছোটো শিশু যুবক ও মহিলারা শঙ্খধ্বনি ও উলুধ্বনির মাধ্যমে পরিবেশকে ভক্তিময় করে তোলেন। “হরিবোল” ধ্বনিতে মুখরিত করে তোলেন গোটা এলাকা। তিনি বলেন,বর্তমান বিশ্বে যখন বিভাজন, হিংসা ও অসহিষ্ণুতা বাড়ছে, তখন শ্রীচৈতন্যের প্রেম ও ঐক্যের বার্তা বিশেষ তাৎপর্য বহন করে।

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ISL 2025-26 Match Preview: East Bengal FC eye vital home win against FC Goa

Kolkata, 4 March 2026: East Bengal FC prepares to host FC Goa in a key early-season Indian Super League 2025-26 encounter at Kolkata’s Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Thursday evening (5 March 2026) (Kickoff – 5 PM). This will be East Bengal’s fourth consecutive home match in the current edition of the league. The Red & Gold Brigade made a perfect start to their campaign, beating NorthEast United FC (3-0) and SC Delhi (4-1) in their first two outings before suffering a 1-2 defeat to Jamshedpur FC in their third fixture. After occupying the top spot in the first two match weeks, EBFC has slipped to the fifth position with 6 points from 3 matches (goals scored: 8; Goals conceded: 3; goal difference: +5). EBFC’s Spanish forward Youssef Ezzejjari currently leads the league’s scoring charts with four goals, while Brazilian Miguel Figueira and Indian national team attacker Edmund Lalrindika have scored the remaining goals for the Kolkata-based club, having found the net twice each.

The Red & Gold Brigade has shown consistent scoring form at the VYBK, netting in their last six ISL matches at this venue. FC Goa, meanwhile, sits third in the league table with 7 points from 3 matches (2 wins and a draw). Their campaign opened with a 1-1 draw against Inter Kashi FC, followed by successive clean sheet victories: 2-0 against Mohammedan SC and 1-0 against SC Delhi. Serbian forward Dejan Drazic is currently the Gaurs’ leading scorer in the tournament, with 3 goals in 3 games. The last time the two sides met each other was in the AIFF Super Cup final at Goa’s Fatorda Stadium on 7 December 2025, where EBFC missed out on the silverware on penalties (5-6).

Addressing the media at the pre-match press conference, East Bengal FC head coach Oscar Bruzon said, “Playing at home demands responsibility, especially after the disappointing defeat last week. FC Goa is a structured, competitive side with a clear game idea and identity, great players, quality in key areas, and a coach I admire. Hence, the margin for error will be minimal. If we want to win the 3 points here, we must perform at the highest level from the first minute. We respect the opponent, but we trust our work, our preparation, and our character in front of our fans.”

East Bengal FC midfielder Mohammed Rashid commented, “This season we have only thirteen matches. It’s a new day and a new challenge for us. We are going game by game, step by step. We need to forget the previous result – irrespective of whether we win or lose – and focus on the target in front of us.” The match can be streamed live on the FanCode app and will be broadcast on television on the Sony Sports Ten 2 channel.

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মহাসমারোহে পালিত হলো কুমুদ সাহিত্য মেলা

মোল্লা জসিমউদ্দিন , মঙ্গলবার পূর্ব বর্ধমান জেলার মঙ্গলকোট থানার কোগ্রামে পল্লিকবি কুমুদরঞ্জন মল্লিকের জন্মদিন উপলক্ষে কুমুদ সাহিত্য মেলা মহাসমারোহে পালিত হলো। এই সাহিত্য মেলায় অতিথি হিসেবে উপস্থিত ছিলেন কাটোয়া মহকুমা পুলিশ অফিসার কাশীনাথ মিস্ত্রি, মঙ্গলকোট থানার আইসি লাল্টু ঘোষ, শ্রীখণ্ড পঞ্চায়েতের প্রাক্তন প্রধান দীপক মজুমদার প্রমুখ। উচ্চশিক্ষা পর্ষদের সভাপতি অধ্যাপক ডক্টর পার্থ কর্মকার মহাশয়কে এবছর ‘কুমুদ রত্ন’, পদ্মশ্রী প্রাপ্ত লোকসংগীত শিল্পী রতন কাহার মহাশয়কে ‘লোচনদাস রত্ন’, সাংবাদিক প্রণব দেবনাথকে ‘কাটোয়া মহকুমা রত্ন’, অবর বিদ্যালয় পরিদর্শক সমীর মজুমদার মহাশয়কে ‘উত্তর ২৪ পরগণা জেলা রত্ন’, প্রকৃতিরক্ষী সমরেন্দু চক্রবর্তী মহাশয়কে ‘পরিবেশ রত্ন’, অবসরপ্রাপ্ত সরকারি চিকিৎসক ডক্টর অভয় সামন্ত মহাশয়কে ‘মেমারি রত্ন’, গবেষক সম্রাট কুমার পাল মহাশয়কে ‘ভাতার রত্ন’,সাংবাদিক দ্বারকানাথ দাস মহাশয়কে ‘কালনা মহকুমা রত্ন’,বিশিষ্ট লেখক অলক কুমার দত্ত মহাশয়কে ‘সমীর ভট্টাচার্য রত্ন’ সম্মান জানানো হয়। এছাড়া পশুপ্রেমী টুম্পা রায়কে মমতা মন্ডল স্মৃতি পুরস্কার দেওয়া হয় আয়োজক কমিটির তরফে। মোল্লা শফিকুল ইসলাম, বিশ্ববন্ধু পালের সঞ্চালনায় অনুষ্ঠান পরিচালিত হয়। কুমুদ সাহিত্য মেলা কমিটির সাধারণ সম্পাদক মোল্লা জসিমউদ্দিন জানান -” পল্লি কবির ১৪৩ তম জন্মদিন উপলক্ষে এই কুমুদ সাহিত্য মেলায় সমাজের বিভিন্ন স্তরের ১১ জন গুণীজনদের সংবর্ধনা জানানো হয় “।

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শান্তিই সমৃদ্ধির পথ, যুদ্ধ অবসানে বৈশ্বিক ঐক্যের ডাক ডাঃ কে. এ. পলের আন্তর্জাতিক শান্তিপ্রিয় লিডার ক্রমবর্ধমান বৈশ্বিক সংঘাত প্রতিরোধে সম্মিলিত রাজনৈতিক, ধর্মীয় ও নাগরিক সমর্থনের আহ্বান জানিয়েছেন

Dr. K. A. Paul, Founder of the Global Peace Initiative (GPI), President of Praja Shanthi Party (India), and international peacemaker, addresses the media during the press conference, alongwith Jyothi Begal, National Director.

কলকাতা, ২ মার্চ ২০২৬: বিশ্বের অন্যতম পরিচিত ধর্মপ্রচারক গ্লোবাল পিস ইনিশিয়েটিভ-এর প্রতিষ্ঠাতা ডাঃ কে. এ. পল কলকাতা প্রেস ক্লাবে এক সংবাদ সম্মেলনে চলমান বৈশ্বিক সংঘাত বন্ধে বিশ্বব্যাপী ঐক্যের আহ্বান জানিয়েছেন। তিনি বলেন, যুদ্ধ ও ভূ-রাজনৈতিক উত্তেজনা বিশ্ব স্থিতিশীলতার জন্য বড় হুমকি হয়ে দাঁড়িয়েছে। এই পরিস্থিতিতে রাজনৈতিক, ধর্মীয় ও নাগরিক সমাজের সম্মিলিত উদ্যোগ ছাড়া টেকসই শান্তি সম্ভব নয়। ডাঃ পল দাবি করেন, ১৯৮১ সাল থেকে তিনি আন্তর্জাতিক শান্তি প্রচেষ্টায় সক্রিয়ভাবে যুক্ত আছেন। তিনি উল্লেখ করেন যে, জানুয়ারিতে মার্কিন যুক্তরাষ্ট্রের ক্যানসাসে আইনপ্রণেতাদের সামনে বক্তব্য রেখে তিনি বিশ্বব্যাপী সংঘাত অবিলম্বে বন্ধের আহ্বান জানান এবং পরবর্তীতে বিভিন্ন আন্তর্জাতিক নেতার সঙ্গে বৈঠক করেন। তিনি আরও বলেন, ভারত বিশ্বশান্তি প্রতিষ্ঠায় অগ্রণী ভূমিকা রাখতে পারে। ২২ ফেব্রুয়ারি চেন্নাইয়ে অনুষ্ঠিত এক বিশ্ব শান্তি সমাবেশের কথাও তিনি তুলে ধরেন, যেখানে বিভিন্ন ধর্মীয় নেতারা সংলাপ ও সম্প্রীতির পক্ষে মত দেন। তাঁর মতে, শান্তি উদ্যোগকে রাজনৈতিক বিভাজন ও মতাদর্শগত পার্থক্যের ঊর্ধ্বে উঠতে হবে।

ডাঃ পল বলেন, “যেখানে শান্তি আছে, সেখানে সমৃদ্ধি ও উন্নয়ন আছে।” তিনি ব্যাখ্যা করেন, দীর্ঘমেয়াদি পরিকল্পনা ও স্থিতিশীল পরিবেশ অর্থনৈতিক প্রবৃদ্ধিকে ত্বরান্বিত করে। সরকার, নাগরিক সমাজ, ধর্মীয় প্রতিষ্ঠান ও গণমাধ্যমের সমন্বিত প্রচেষ্টার মাধ্যমেই টেকসই সমাধান সম্ভব বলে তিনি মত দেন। ডাঃ পল পশ্চিমবঙ্গের বৃহৎ আকারে একটি শান্তি সমাবেশ আয়োজনের পরিকল্পনা ঘোষণা করেন। তিনি ধর্ম-বর্ণ নির্বিশেষে সবাইকে গ্লোবাল পিস ইনিশিয়েটিভে যুক্ত হওয়ার আহ্বান জানান এবং স্পষ্ট করেন যে এই আন্দোলন অর্থের চেয়ে অংশগ্রহণ ও সংহতির গুরুত্ব দেয়। তিনি পশ্চিমবঙ্গের মুখ্যমন্ত্রী মমতা বন্দ্যোপাধ্যায়ের সঙ্গে সাক্ষাৎ করে শান্তি ও উন্নয়ন বিষয়ে সহযোগিতার সম্ভাবনা নিয়ে আলোচনা করার ইচ্ছা ও প্রকাশ করেন। চলমান আন্তর্জাতিক সংঘাত প্রসঙ্গে প্রশ্নের উত্তরে ডাঃ পল মধ্যস্থতা প্রচেষ্টায় নিজের সম্পৃক্ততার কথা পুনর্ব্যক্ত করেন এবং গণতন্ত্র, সংলাপ ও মানবিক সম্পৃক্ততা কে সংঘাত সমাধানের মূল ভিত্তি হিসেবে উল্লেখ করেন। তিনি বিশ্বনেতা ও নাগরিকদের শান্তির স্বার্থে ঐক্যবদ্ধ থাকার আহ্বান জানিয়ে তাঁর বক্তব্য শেষ করেন।

SHILPANEER NEWSPAPER

সুস্থ থাকুক হোলির আনন্দ: ক্যানসার রোগীদের সতর্ক করল মণিপাল হসপিটাল রাঙাপানি / Celebrate Holi Safely: Manipal Hospital Rangapani Advises Cancer Patients to Take Precautions

শিলিগুড়ি, ২ মার্চ ২০২৬: মণিপাল হসপিটাল রাঙাপানি, মণিপাল হসপিটালস গ্রুপের অন্যতম প্রধান ইউনিট, রেডিয়েশন থেরাপি চলাকালীন বা সদ্য চিকিৎসা সম্পন্ন করা রোগীদের হোলির সময় বিশেষ সতর্কতা অবলম্বনের পরামর্শ দিয়েছে, যাতে ত্বকের অতিসংবেদনশীলতা, অ্যালার্জি এবং সার্বিক স্বাস্থ্যের জটিলতা এড়ানো যায়। রেডিয়েশন থেরাপির ফলে চিকিৎসাকৃত ত্বকের অংশ অত্যন্ত সংবেদনশীল, নাজুক এবং সহজেই জ্বালা বা প্রদাহের শিকার হতে পারে। বর্তমানে যেসব রোগী রেডিয়েশন থেরাপি নিচ্ছেন, তাঁদের চিকিৎসাকৃত স্থানে চিকিৎসকের পরামর্শে নির্ধারিত মলম ছাড়া অন্য কোনো রাসায়নিক পদার্থ ব্যবহার না করার জন্য কঠোরভাবে পরামর্শ দেওয়া হচ্ছে। কৃত্রিম রংযুক্ত রাসায়নিক পদার্থ চিকিৎসাকৃত ত্বকের সঙ্গে প্রতিকূল প্রতিক্রিয়া সৃষ্টি করতে পারে। কেউ যদি উৎসবে অংশ নিতে চান, তবে খুব সতর্কতার সঙ্গে শরীরের অল্প একটি অংশে রং ব্যবহার করতে হবে এবং অবশ্যই চিকিৎসাকৃত অংশ এড়িয়ে চলতে হবে। কৃত্রিম রঙের পরিবর্তে প্রাকৃতিক রং ব্যবহার করাই উত্তম।

যেসব রোগী সফলভাবে রেডিয়েশন থেরাপি সম্পন্ন করেছেন এবং তীব্র পার্শ্বপ্রতিক্রিয়া থেকে সেরে উঠেছেন, তাঁদেরও সতর্ক থাকা জরুরি। উৎসবের সময় খাদ্যাভ্যাসের বিষয়ে বিশেষভাবে সচেতন থাকতে হবে, কারণ এই সময় রোগীদের রোগ প্রতিরোধ ক্ষমতা সাধারণত কম থাকে। এছাড়াও অ্যালকোহল, ভাঙ ইত্যাদি মাদকজাতীয় পানীয় সম্পূর্ণভাবে এড়িয়ে চলা উচিত, কারণ এগুলি রোগীর স্বাস্থ্যের ওপর বিরূপ প্রভাব ফেলতে পারে। বিশেষ করে ফুসফুসের ক্যানসার রোগীদের অতিরিক্ত সতর্কতা অবলম্বন করা প্রয়োজন। রেডিয়েশন থেরাপি, কেমোথেরাপি চলাকালীন অথবা চিকিৎসা সফলভাবে সম্পন্ন হওয়ার পরের সময়ে গুঁড়ো রঙের সংস্পর্শ সম্পূর্ণভাবে এড়িয়ে চলা উচিত, কারণ এগুলি অ্যালার্জি, শ্বাসকষ্ট বা পূর্ববর্তী শ্বাসযন্ত্রের সমস্যাকে (যেমন সিওপিডি) আরও বাড়িয়ে তুলতে পারে।

ডা. পৃথ্বিজিত মৈত্র, অ্যাসোসিয়েট কনসালট্যান্ট – রেডিয়েশন অনকোলজি, মণিপাল হসপিটাল, রাঙাপানি বলেন, “রেডিয়েশন থেরাপির ফলে ত্বকের সংবেদনশীলতা বৃদ্ধি পায় এবং চিকিৎসা সম্পন্ন হওয়ার পরও কিছু সময় পর্যন্ত ত্বক ও অভ্যন্তরীণ টিস্যু দুর্বল থাকে। হোলির সময় রোগীদের চিকিৎসাকৃত স্থানে রাসায়নিক রং প্রয়োগ করা এবং জোরে ঘষে পরিষ্কার করা থেকে বিরত থাকতে হবে। ফুসফুসের ক্যানসার রোগীদের গুঁড়ো রঙের সংস্পর্শ এড়িয়ে চলা উচিত, কারণ রং শ্বাসের সঙ্গে শরীরে প্রবেশ করলে শ্বাসযন্ত্রের জটিলতা দেখা দিতে পারে। উৎসব অবশ্যই উপভোগ করা যায়, তবে অপ্রয়োজনীয় স্বাস্থ্যঝুঁকি এড়াতে নিরাপত্তা ও সংযম অত্যন্ত গুরুত্বপূর্ণ।” মণিপাল হসপিটাল, রাঙাপানি রোগী ও তাঁদের পরিবারের সদস্যদের উৎসবের কার্যক্রমে অংশগ্রহণের আগে সংশ্লিষ্ট অনকোলজিস্টের পরামর্শ নেওয়ার আহ্বান জানিয়েছে, যাতে নিরাপদ ও সুস্থভাবে উৎসব উদযাপন করা যায়।

Siliguri, 2^nd March 2026: Manipal Hospital Rangapani, one of the leading units of the Manipal Hospitals Group, has advised patients undergoing radiation therapy and those who have recently completed treatment to exercise special caution during Holi to prevent avoidable complications related to skin sensitivity, allergies, and overall health. Radiation therapy makes the treated area of the skin extremely sensitive, fragile, and prone to irritation. Patients who are currently undergoing radiation therapy are strongly advised not to use any chemical substances on the treated area of the body except for the prescribed ointment. Chemical substances containing artificial colors are likely to react adversely with the treated area of the body. If the patient wants to participate in the celebrations, colors should be used very carefully and only on a small area of the body, excluding the treated area. Natural colors should be preferred over artificial colors.

Even for the patients who have successfully undergone radiation therapy and have recovered from acute toxicity, caution should be taken. Patients undergoing radiation therapy must be very cautious regarding their food intake during celebrations, as their immunity level of the patients is very low. Also, intoxicating drinks such as alcohol, bhang, etc., should be completely avoided, as these can affect the health of the patient. Special care must be taken by patients of lung cancer, as the period of radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or the period after the successful completion of the treatment, must be avoided, as exposure to powdered colours must be avoided, as the colours can cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, or exacerbate pre-existing conditions such as COPD, etc.

Dr. Prithwijit Moitra, Associate Consultant – Radiation Oncology, Manipal Hospital, Rangapani, said, “Radiation therapy increases skin sensitivity, and even after treatment completion, the skin and underlying tissues remain vulnerable for some time. During Holi, patients must avoid applying chemical-based colours on treated areas and refrain from vigorous scrubbing. Lung cancer patients should avoid exposure to powdered colours as inhalation can trigger respiratory complications. Celebrations can certainly be enjoyed, but safety and moderation are essential to prevent unnecessary health setbacks.” Manipal Hospital Siliguri, Rangapani, encourages patients and caregivers to consult their treating oncologist before participating in festive activities to ensure a safe and healthy celebration.

About Manipal Hospitals

As a pioneer in healthcare, Manipal Hospitals is among the top healthcare providers in India, serving over 8 million patients annually, with a focus on providing affordable, high-quality healthcare services. Manipal’s integrated network today has a pan-India footprint of 49 hospitals across 24 cities with 12,600 licensed beds, and a talented pool of 11,000+ doctors and an employee strength of over 34000. Manipal Hospitals provides comprehensive curative and preventive care for a multitude of patients from around the globe. Manipal Hospitals is AAHRPP-accredited, and most of the hospitals in its network are NABH, NABL, ER, and Blood Bank accredited and recognized for Nursing Excellence.

SHILPANEER NEWSPAPER

A new chapter Down Under: India to launch Asian Cup journey in Perth against Vietnam

Perth, Australia, Tuesday, March 3, 2026: The wait has come to an end. The Indian senior women’s national team, after four years of hurt, is finally ready to begin its AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 journey against Vietnam at the Perth Rectangular Stadium on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, in Perth, Australia. The match will kick off at 16:30 IST and will be streamed live on FanCode.

The World Cup dream, for the Blue Tigresses, came to a grinding halt in their own backyard when the team pulled out of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup India 2022. However, their magnificent performance in the qualifiers last year has now given them a second shot. This marks the first time India has qualified for the Asian Cup on merit. Amelia Valverde, who was appointed the head coach of the Indian women’s team earlier this year, brushed past heartbreaks aside. “That was four years ago. There are no coincidences in life, though, and we are back here again with a chance to prove ourselves. This is a new opportunity for us to represent our team in the best possible manner,” the Costa Rican said.

The AFC Women’s Asian Cup presents an opportunity for the 12 participating nations, as the four semi-finalists will gain direct entry to the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027. Two out of the four losing quarter-finalists will compete to determine the two remaining direct qualifiers from Asia. The remaining two teams will proceed to the play-off tournament, which can also afford them an entry to the world’s biggest competition. The Blue Tigresses, 67th in the FIFA Rankings, have had a 52-day camp spanning three continents to prepare for the Asian Cup. Valverde said, “We have worked very hard in the last few weeks, and the motivation is high within the team to get the best possible result for India.

While they began their camp in Gurugram and then shifted base to Antalya, Türkiye, the Blue Tigresses arrived in Perth three weeks before the Asian Cup as part of their acclimatisation. “The preparations have been very good so far. We have been here for the last three weeks, which has been very helpful for the team,” said Valverde. “We know our responsibilities, and that is to put the best version of ourselves on the pitch.” The Blue Tigresses’ head coach was respectful of Vietnam, the opponents, at the pre-match press conference. “They are a team with a lot of quality because they played the last World Cup and they’ve been with the same coach (Mai Đức Chung) for a long time, playing many matches under him,” said Valverde.

“We are well aware of the kind of opposition we’re facing. But our job is to exhibit the best version of the Indian team and make sure there’s no doubt that we will be out there to compete and give our best,” she said. India captain Sweety Devi Ngangbam was one of the players who had experienced the heartbreak in 2022. However, she echoed her coach’s feelings about the Asian Cup. “We have prepared very well. The squad is ready, and we are fully focused on giving our best performance at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup,” she said. “We came here three weeks before, and I think it was a good decision from the federation to send us here early. It was an advantage to adapt to the weather, and we are now ready for the challenges.” Vietnam head coach Mai Đức Chung was cautious yet optimistic about his side’s fortunes Down Under. “We have had good preparation, but we will be facing strong teams,” said Mai. “We have to try and match them. What we have prepared, we will show tomorrow on the pitch. “It’s difficult to say much in advance, but we know we have to try very hard. We are very happy with the squad’s readiness,” the Vietnamese coach added.

SHILPANEER NEWSPAPER

Chhangte’s late strike earns Mumbai a point against Northeast.

Mumbai City FC – 1 (Lallianzuala Chhangte 84’) NorthEast United FC – 1 (Jithin MS 48)

Mumbai, Sunday, March 1, 2026: A late equaliser by Lallianzuala Chhangte helped Mumbai City FC secure a 1-1 draw against Northeast United FC in the Indian Super League 2025-26 at the Mumbai Football Arena on Sunday, March 1. With this draw, Mumbai City FC provisionally moved to fourth in the standings with seven points, while Northeast United FC remains 10th with two points. Chhangte was adjudged the Player of the Match. Mumbai City FC head coach Petr Krátký retained his tested starting XI without any changes. In contrast, Northeast United FC head coach Juan Pedro Benali made three alterations, bringing in forward Lalrinzuala, midfielder Laishram Danny Meitei, and right-back Redeem Tlang.

Lallianzuala Chhangte of Mumbai City FC & Buanthanglun Samte of North East United FC in action during match 20 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Mumbai City FC and Northeast United at the Mumbai Sports Arena in Mumbai on 1st March 2026. Photo: Hariom Hans /Focus Sports/ ISL

Players of North East United FC celebrating after scoring the goal during match 20 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Mumbai City FC and Northeast United at the Mumbai Sports Arena in Mumbai on 1st March 2026. Photo: Hariom Hans /Focus Sports/ ISL

Northeast made a promising start, enjoying the early share of possession, but struggled to penetrate Mumbai’s defensive line in the final third. The first real opportunity fell to the hosts in the 11th minute when the Highlanders keeper, Gurmeet Singh, tipped over Chhangte’s left-footed strike from outside the box for a corner. Jorge Pereyra Díaz fired wide two minutes later, while Northeast responded in the 18th minute as winger Jithin MS dragged his effort wide from the centre of the box following a corner. Mumbai City FC midfielder Brandon Fernandes came close in the 23rd minute with a direct free kick that missed narrowly. Neither side was able to seize control in the opening half-hour. Parthib Gogoi delivered a dangerous curler from the right in the 33rd minute, but Islanders centre-back Nuno Reis produced a crucial clearance.

The first half ended goalless, with both teams showing flashes of quality but nothing to show for it on the scoresheet. Northeast broke the deadlock three minutes into the second half. After midfielder Muthu Mayakkannan won a free kick in the attacking half, Andy Rodríguez delivered a teasing ball into the box. The delivery took a touch off Lalrinzuala’s back before falling to Jithin MS, who struck a precise right-footed effort from a difficult angle into the near post in the 48th minute, putting the Highlanders 1-0 ahead. The Highlanders looked to build on their advantage, with right-back Samte firing wide soon after. Mumbai responded through Brandon, whose effort was blocked, while midfielder Vikram Pratap Singh’s long-range strike drifted narrowly off target in the 58th minute.

Akash Mishra of Mumbai City FC Parthib Sundar Gogoi of North East United FC in action during match 20 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Mumbai City FC and Northeast United at the Mumbai Sports Arena in Mumbai on 1st March 2026. Photo: Hariom Hans /Focus Sports/ ISL

Akash Mishra of Mumbai City FC in action during match 20 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Mumbai City FC and Northeast United at the Mumbai Sports Arena in Mumbai on 1st March 2026. Photo: Hariom Hans /Focus Sports/ ISL

Hmingthanmawia of Mumbai City FC in action during match 20 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Mumbai City FC and Northeast United at the Mumbai Sports Arena in Mumbai on 1st March 2026. Photo: Hariom Hans /Focus Sports/ ISL

The Highlanders continued to threaten from set pieces. Rodríguez headed wide in the 62nd minute, and Nickson’s long-range attempt missed the target shortly after. Lalrinzuala’s effort in the 72nd minute was blocked as Mumbai gradually increased the pressure. The equaliser arrived in the 84th minute through a well-constructed move. Joni Kauko lofted a precise through ball into the path of Pereyra Díaz, whose powerful left-footed shot was parried by Gurmeet Singh. Chhangte reacted quickest inside the six-yard box to head into the empty net and level the scores at 1-1. Both sides pressed for a late winner. Chhangte headed wide in stoppage time, while Vanlalvunga dragged an effort off target at the other end. However, neither team could find the decisive breakthrough.

The final whistle confirmed a 1-1 draw, with Chhangte’s late intervention cancelling out Jithin’s opener as the points were shared at the Mumbai Football Arena. After the completion of Gameweek 3, Mohun Bagan Super Giant currently sits on top of the table with nine points and a +8 goal difference, followed by Jamshedpur FC, also on nine points with a +3 goal difference. FC Goa and Mumbai City FC are third and fourth, respectively, with seven points and +3 and +2 goal differences. Kerala Blasters FC, SC Delhi, and Mohammedan SC occupy the bottom three positions without a win so far this season. Gameweek 4 begins on Thursday, March 5, 2026, with East Bengal FC hosting FC Goa. The match is slated for a 17:00 IST kickoff and will be streamed live on FanCode and telecast on Sony Sports Ten. 2.

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