Annette Young is pleased to welcome Renaud Foucart, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Economics ECARES at Lancaster University. France's 1.6% minimum-wage increase, in response to the countrywide protests, may offer a temporary reprieve from social unrest, but it does little to resolve the deeper political and institutional crisis confronting the country. According to Foucart, the central problem extends beyond declining purchasing power, fiscal constraints and the limitations of a minority government. It concerns a growing loss of faith in politics itself. “They are in the street because they don't believe politics can achieve anything,” Foucart argues, suggesting that the persistence of mass demonstrations ahead of the presidential election reflects profound disillusionment with the political system's capacity to deliver meaningful change.
French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu said on Monday, November 9, he was bringing forward a planned hike in the minimum wage to December from January, as he sought to defuse a cost-of-living crisis that has sparked some of France's worst civil unrest in years. Unions swiftly dismissed the offer as "crumbs".
Shares of artificial intelligence leader Nvidia tumbled early Monday after the chip company said it launched an investigation of CEO Jensen Huang following reports he was targeted by Chinese intelligence. Nvidia shares were down more than eight percent in opening trading after its board announced that a committee of independent directors assisted by outside counsel would undertake the probe.
British comedian Russell Brand, once one of the country's most high-profile broadcasters and a Hollywood star, was jailed for 10-and-a-half years on Monday after he was convicted of raping one woman and sexually assaulting three others around two decades ago. The judge said Brand was a sexual predator who believed "fame meant you could act how you liked, when you liked, unhindered by the rules by which decent people live".
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot on Monday accused Iran's Revolutionary Guards of being behind a recent cyberattack on French supermarket fridges, saying there would be consequences for the country. The Paris prosecutor's office said it had opened an investigation into an Iranian cyber unit affiliated with the Guards over the cyberattacks.
Nvidia shares tumbled this Monday after the AI chipmaking giant said it would investigate its CEO's affair with a suspected Chinese spy. There are concerns Jensen Huang was targeted by a foreign intelligence effort following a media report that he had a close relationship with a Chinese businesswoman who allegedly passed information to Beijing. China, meanwhile, has slammed the spying allegations as a "smear campaign".
British comedian and TV star Russell Brand was Monday jailed for more than 10 years for a string of sex offences including rape as the judge told him he had been a "sexual predator" whose fame had protected him.
The UN's annual climate change summit, known as COP31, opens this Monday in Turkey amid deep concern following deadly heatwaves in Europe and deadly floods in Nepal. A "super El Niño" in the Pacific is also expected to drive more extreme weather events. In response, COP31 host Turkey is set to launch a global initiative aiming to electrify a third of the world economy. FRANCE 24's Environment Editor Valerie Dekimpe tells us more.
Hyderabad: The Forest College and Research Institute (FCRI), Mulugu, Siddipet district, has started the application process for admissions into the B.Sc (Hons) Forestry programme for the 2026–27 academic year. College Dean Praveen announced that applications will be accepted from July 1 to July 25. Students who have qualified in TG EAPCET 2026 and passed Intermediate or its equivalent with BiPC, MBiPC, or MPC streams are eligible to apply for the four-year undergraduate programme. The B.Sc (Hons) Forestry course offers comprehensive academic and practical training in areas such as forest conservation, biodiversity, wildlife management, environmental protection, agroforestry, and natural resource conservation. Students will also receive extensive field training and hands-on practical exposure as part of the curriculum. The Dean stated that graduates of the programme will have promising career opportunities in forest departments, environmental organizations, research institutions, government agencies, and private sector companies. Eligible candidates are advised to submit their applications on or before July 25. For detailed admission guidelines and the application process, students can visit the official FCRI website. They may also contact the institute at 63038 271100, 08454-211939, or 08454-211930 for further information. Also Read: AP EAPCET 2026 Results to Be Released on July 2 Instead of Scheduled Date
Tollywood has received one of its biggest announcements of the year as NTR and acclaimed filmmaker Trivikram Srinivas officially reunite for a grand mythological action epic. The prestigious project will be produced under the Haarika & Hassine Creations banner by S. Radha Krishna (Chinababu) and Suryadevara Naga Vamsi. The makers unveiled the project's official announcement along with a striking concept poster carrying the powerful tagline, "The Son of Shiva. The Pride of Parvathi. The Eternal Commander." The poster has gone viral across social media, fueling speculation about the film's storyline and NTR's character. According to industry reports, NTR is expected to portray a powerful divine warrior inspired by Lord Kumaraswamy (Kartikeya/Skanda), the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi, and the commander of the celestial army. The film is said to blend mythology with high-octane action, rich storytelling, and modern commercial elements, making it one of the most ambitious projects in Trivikram's career. Reports also suggest that the makers are considering the title "God of War" for the film, although an official confirmation is still awaited. At present, NTR is busy shooting for his upcoming film Dragon, directed by Prashanth Neel. Once that project is completed, this mythological spectacle is expected to go on floors. The production house is likely to reveal more details, including the first glimpse, cast, and technical crew, in the coming weeks.
Low Water, High Profits: Top Crops Farmers Can Grow in Water-Scarce Areas Across India Water Shortage No Longer Means Low Income: Experts Recommend Climate-Resilient Crops for Better Returns New Delhi: Water scarcity has emerged as one of the biggest challenges facing Indian agriculture. With irregular monsoons, declining groundwater levels, rising temperatures, and increasing climate variability, farmers across several states are being encouraged to shift from water-intensive crops to drought-tolerant and climate-resilient alternatives. Agricultural experts believe that choosing the right crop based on water availability and soil type can help farmers reduce production costs while maintaining stable yields. Traditionally, crops such as paddy and sugarcane require significant amounts of irrigation. However, in areas where water availability is limited, these crops often become economically risky. Experts recommend adopting crops that require less water, mature quickly, and are capable of withstanding dry weather conditions. Why Water-Efficient Crops Are Becoming Essential Climate experts warn that rainfall patterns are becoming increasingly unpredictable. Delayed monsoons and prolonged dry spells have affected sowing in many parts of the country, prompting governments and agricultural departments to encourage farmers to diversify toward water-efficient farming systems. Low-water crops offer several advantages: Lower irrigation costs Reduced dependence on groundwater Better drought tolerance Lower cultivation expenses Stable yields during erratic rainfall Improved soil sustainability Best Crops for Low-Water Farming 1. Millets Millets are among the most drought-resistant crops and are gaining popularity due to increasing consumer demand for healthy foods. Popular varieties include: Pearl Millet (Bajra) Sorghum (Jowar) Finger Millet (Ragi) Foxtail Millet Little Millet Barnyard Millet These crops require substantially less water than rice and perform well under rain-fed conditions. 2. Pulses Pulse crops consume relatively less water while improving soil fertility through nitrogen fixation. Recommended pulses include: Red Gram (Pigeon Pea) Green Gram (Moong) Black Gram (Urad) Chickpea Cowpea Horse Gram Apart from offering good market prices, pulses also enhance soil health for future crops. 3. Oilseed Crops Oilseeds remain a profitable option in dryland farming. Suitable crops include: Groundnut Sesame Sunflower Castor Safflower Many of these crops require moderate irrigation only during critical growth stages. 4. Horticulture Crops With drip irrigation, several fruit crops can provide long-term income. Popular choices include: Pomegranate Guava Custard Apple Indian Gooseberry (Amla) Drumstick (Moringa) Several state governments have also promoted drumstick cultivation in drought-prone regions because of its low water requirement and export potential. 5. Medicinal and Aromatic Crops Farmers seeking diversification may consider: Aloe Vera Ashwagandha Lemongrass Vetiver Senna These crops generally require less irrigation and have growing demand from pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Crop Selection Based on Soil Type Sandy Soil Suitable crops include: Groundnut Sesame Watermelon Muskmelon Guava Cashew Black Cotton Soil Recommended crops: Cotton Pigeon Pea Sorghum Chickpea Sunflower Red Soil Suitable options include: Groundnut Millets Pulses Mango Guava Drumstick Choosing crops according to soil characteristics significantly improves productivity and reduces cultivation risks. Modern Water-Saving Techniques Agricultural scientists recommend integrating crop selection with efficient water management. Key practices include: Drip irrigation Mulching Rainwater harvesting Soil moisture conservation Organic matter incorporation Micro-irrigation systems Scientific nutrient management These techniques can substantially reduce water consumption while maintaining crop productivity. Climate Change Driving New Farming Practices Experts note that climate change is making traditional farming methods increasingly difficult. Several states have already started promoting drought-resistant crops, natural farming, and water-efficient cultivation practices to improve farmers' resilience against uncertain rainfall. Experts' Advice Agricultural experts recommend that farmers should not choose crops solely based on market prices. Instead, they should consider: Annual rainfall Groundwater availability Soil type Local climate Market demand Production cost Water availability throughout the season A scientific crop selection strategy can significantly improve profitability while reducing cultivation risks. Conclusion Water scarcity is expected to remain one of the biggest agricultural challenges in the coming years. However, adopting climate-resilient crops, efficient irrigation methods, and scientific farming practices can help farmers sustain productivity and increase profitability. As climate conditions continue to evolve, experts believe that water-efficient agriculture will play a crucial role in ensuring food security and long-term farm sustainability across India. Disclaimer This article is intended for informational purposes only. Crop suitability may vary depending on local climate, soil characteristics, water availability, and market conditions. Farmers are advised to consult their nearest agricultural extension office or qualified agriculture experts before making cultivation decisions.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei said “the face-to-face negotiations that will be held in the future will not mean accepting the enemy’s point of view.” WASHINGTON : The US on Thursday (Jun 18) lifted its blockade of Iran, and oil tankers began freely moving through the Strait of Hormuz after months of being unable to use the critical channel, as the tentative agreement to end the war took effect. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance announced that he may postpone a trip to Switzerland that had been planned for Friday and included a ceremonial signing of the deal. The visit might have helped start talks on the next, potentially even more critical, round of negotiations between the two sides.
Case Registered Against Former IPS Officer A.K. Khan's Son Mohsin Khan in Hyderabad Hyderabad: A case has been registered against Mohsin Khan, son of former IPS officer A.K. Khan, at the Jubilee Hills Police Station following a complaint filed by film producer Venkata Anish Reddy. Based on the complaint, police have booked a case under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and initiated an investigation. According to the complaint, Mohsin Khan and an associate identified as Tabrez allegedly assured the complainant that they would introduce investors for the film Maharagni. Believing their assurance, the complainant alleged that he paid a total of ₹50 lakh in three installments, with ₹25 lakh each allegedly given to Mohsin Khan and Tabrez. The complainant further alleged that despite receiving the money, the accused failed to introduce any investors as promised. When he sought a refund, he claimed that he was called to an office where he was allegedly threatened. According to the complaint, Mohsin Khan allegedly warned him against demanding the money back and, with the help of bouncers, intimidated and assaulted him while displaying weapons. The complaint also alleges that Tabrez issued threats over the phone. Citing concerns for his safety, the complainant requested police protection. Based on the allegations, Jubilee Hills Police registered a case under Sections 126(2), 115(2), 352, 351(2), and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and have begun an investigation. The allegations remain those of the complainant at this stage. No official response has yet been issued by Mohsin Khan or Tabrez regarding the accusations. Police said the investigation is underway, and further action will depend on the findings of the inquiry.
