queener digital circus Check out little girl's reaction after her aunt forcefully took her away from mumSean Monahan, Dmitri Voronkov each score twice to lead the Blue Jackets past the Bruins 6-2When cash handouts help win polls, incentives for politicians to create jobs are low Incumbent Mahayuti’s giant victory in Maharashtra was a sum of many parts, including driven cadres, expert booth management, hard electioneering and a well-oiled poll machinery. And, not least, its cash handouts. Mahayuti brass are crediting the “landslide victory” to govt’s cash transfer schemes. They’ve called their Ladki Bahin scheme a “game changer”. In Jharkhand too, Maiya Samman scheme paid big dividends to incumbent JMM govt. Money talks. Cash works. It is expected now that all political parties will attempt to outdo one another by raising the bar on the amount and coverage of such schemes. In fact, this played out within weeks in Jharkhand. In Aug, JMM govt floated a ₹1k every month dole to women. BJP in Oct promised the same group ₹2.1k. Soren govt jacked up the handout to ₹2.5k payable from Dec. Populist state handouts are in reality a matter of concern, as every politician worth his salt knows. Political veterans have red flagged the cost – Ladki Bahin has a budget of ₹46k cr for 2.4cr women that’ll only go up as the amount is enhanced to ₹2.1k a month. Where the money will come from is only one half the challenge. The lasting damage is the impact on the economy. Effectively, rich electoral returns on cash transfers become a disincentive for politicians to create jobs. The jobs crisis, in Maharashtra and all-India, has remained intractable. Jobless growth has remained constant for over 15 years as has the recognition that GDP is only half the picture. The missing half is the workforce, growing by 7mn-8mn per year, and ordinary people, aka the voting people. Over 65% of India’s workforce is under age 35. Underemployment is savage. Colleges churn out unemployable graduates. Instead of increasing, share of total workforce in manufacturing has declined from 12.1% in 2018-19 to 11.4% in 2023-24. Chatter is not on growing jobs, but redefining employment. Worryingly, the best brains at the top are moving overseas. Even the low-skilled are migrating given the wage gap between home and destination country for the same jobs. Political parties have their finger on people’s pulse. Their manifestos respond to income distress. But govts are failing to create opportunities. Over the last several election cycles, this has seen cash handouts hardwired into party manifestos. It’s a winning formula for electoral security. But no income security has consequences for India, stuck in the low-middle-income trap.

Reflecting on the life and legacy of Dr. Manmohan Singh, the esteemed former Prime Minister, fills me with deep respect and admiration. He was a leader who embodied wisdom, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the progress of all regions in India. It was under his leadership that I had the privilege of working on several critical initiatives for Jammu and Kashmir, witnessing firsthand his visionary approach to inclusive growth. During my tenure as the leader of the Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK), I had numerous opportunities to meet Dr. Singh and attend special programs led by him. One of the most defining moments in both my career and personal interactions with Dr. Singh occurred in 2009. That year, under my leadership, FCIK made the bold decision to return the industrial incentive package announced by the central government in 2002. This decision, widely covered by the media, was a response to growing dissatisfaction in our region with the scheme’s implementation, which, in our view, failed to address the core issues it was intended to resolve. The day of our meeting with the Prime Minister at Hari Niwas in Jammu arrived. I was accompanied by my Vice President, Ghulam Mohammad Tramboo, and Secretary General, Syed Afaq Ahmad Qadiri. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the Secretary of Industries and Commerce, who conveyed a message from Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad. The Chief Minister advised us to reconsider our decision to return the package and instead present a charter of demands, which the state government would fully support. Despite the persuasion, we made it clear that our intention was not to embarrass the Prime Minister but to protest the lack of attention to our region’s concerns. We reassured them that we knew how to express our protest in a dignified manner. At the meeting, Dr. Singh was surrounded by key figures, including Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, JKPCC Chief Saif ud Din Soz, Nawang Rigzin Jora, Dr. Haseeb Drabu and several central and state officials. We handed over the incentive package, wrapped in gift paper with a ribbon, as a symbolic gesture of our protest. I addressed Dr. Singh with the following remarks: “Sir, I have long admired your visionary policies and their impact on the Indian economy. I remember you saying in Parliament that ‘whatever breeds inequality in opportunities should be abandoned.’ This package, though well-intentioned, has only bred inequality in our region. More than 95% of its incentives have gone to units concentrated in just two districts out of the 22 in Jammu and Kashmir, with 90% going to outside investors. Despite our repeated efforts to include existing local units, we have been unsuccessful. We ask you to abandon this scheme of inequalities.” This moment was not just about expressing frustration; it highlighted our demand for policies that genuinely empower local industries and create meaningful opportunities for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, rather than perpetuating existing inequalities. Though some dignitaries were visibly unsettled by our action, Dr. Singh listened intently, acknowledged our concerns, and promised to revisit the issue. He then passed the booklet to his Principal Secretary, urging further discussions in Delhi. The booklet, which we handed to the Prime Minister, was published by J&K SIDCO. Upon learning of our action, the then Managing Director of SIDCO called me to express his displeasure, fearing the negative repercussions it might have on him, FCIK, and the entire industrial community in the region. However, Dr. Singh was never driven by revenge or malice. He respected diverse forms of protest, understanding that each method of resistance held its own significance. His approach to conflict was one of thoughtful, peaceful resistance, emphasizing the importance of dialogue while respecting the right to protest in all forms. As a result of our unique protest, the Prime Minister directed that a review of the industrial packages for Jammu and Kashmir and the North East be included as an additional task for the Task Force on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) which was under constitution on the representation of MSME associations. Chaired by his Principal Secretary, T.K.A. Nair, the Task Force was set to focus on addressing key issues such as credit, marketing, labour, rehabilitation, exit policy, infrastructure, technology, skill development and taxation. As President of FCIK, I was appointed a member of the group, alongside Anil Goswami, the then Principal Secretary of Industries and Commerce in Jammu and Kashmir. Under T.K.A. Nair’s leadership, our team worked closely to identify policy bottlenecks and propose measures for the Prime Minister’s approval. Over time, the task force successfully realigned the policy, making it more inclusive and responsive to the diverse needs of various regions, especially Jammu and Kashmir. This revised framework supported existing industries and was harmonized with policies aimed at the North Eastern states, ensuring no disparities. One significant achievement of the Task Force was the approval of a corpus fund for the revival of sick industries and the allocation of grant-in-aid for the Jammu and Kashmir State Financial Corporation (J&KSFC). While these initiatives were announced with much anticipation, their implementation was delayed due to bureaucratic hurdles. Nevertheless, Dr. Singh’s vision for an inclusive policy remains a testament to his commitment to equitable development for all regions. In August 2010, while traveling from Anantnag to Srinagar, I received a call from a close friend informing me that Dr. Manmohan Singh, in a televised message, had announced the formation of a high-level expert group to develop a jobs plan for Jammu and Kashmir. The group, headed by former RBI Governor C. Rangarajan, was tasked with improving the “employability” of youth in the state. To my surprise, my name was included in the 6-member group. In his message, Dr. Singh said, “I am proposing to set up an Expert Group headed by Dr. C. Rangarajan, with N. R. Narayana Murthy, Tarun Das, P. Nanda Kumar, Shakeel Qalander, and an official representative of the J&K Government, to formulate a Jobs Plan for the State, involving both the public and private sectors.” The announcement came amidst significant unrest in the valley, and I was initially taken aback. I had neither been consulted nor given the opportunity to consent before the announcement. Later, I learned that the decision had been made at the recommendation of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who trusted my data-based approach over others. The composition of the group, which apart from Economic Advisor Dr. C. Rangarajan included highly respected individuals such as Infosys founder N.R Narayana Murthy, former CII Patron Tarun Das, former Agriculture Secretary Nanda Kumar, former Chief Secretary and B.B Vyas, made me feel privileged to be part of it. It was an opportunity to contribute to measures aimed at improving the prospects of youth in Jammu and Kashmir. During our meetings, we deliberated on various ideas to address the challenges faced by J&K youth in accessing quality education. One key proposal I put forward was the creation of supernumerary seats in educational institutions across India for J&K students. This initiative aimed to create additional opportunities in medical, engineering, and other professional courses, addressing the barriers to higher education. While most of the group supported the proposal in principle, the Chairman assured us it would be discussed further with the Prime Minister before a final decision was made. In addition to this, the group focused on skill development. N. R Narayan Murthy suggested partnering with multinational companies to provide training programs for J&K youth, with opportunities for employment afterward, through a public-private partnership model. As part of our efforts, Dr. Rangarajan arranged a meeting with Dr. Singh which lasted for more than one and a half hours during which we were served with high tea and snacks. At the meeting, Dr. Rangarajan presented the various initiatives under consideration, and it was then that Mr. Murthy mentioned my proposal regarding educational opportunities for J&K youth. When it was my turn, I explained the idea of allocating supernumerary seats for J&K students in medical, engineering, and other colleges across India for a period of 10 years. We discussed the proposal for a long time, with Dr. Singh asking several important questions about implementation. Other members contributed to the discussion, and Dr. Singh was convinced of its merit. However, he suggested we consult with Kapil Sibal, the Minister of Human Resource Development, to gather his perspective before proceeding. Unfortunately when the proposal was discussed with Mr. Sibal, he raised concerns that other states and union territories might request similar schemes, leading to complications for the central government. Although the supernumerary seats proposal was not approved, Dr. Singh responded positively by introducing alternative initiatives. Under his leadership, the government launched scholarship programs under the SSS scheme and skill development programs such as Udaan and Himayat. These initiatives have provided invaluable opportunities for young people in the region, equipping them with the skills necessary to pursue meaningful careers. I had the privilege of meeting Dr. Singh many more times, both during and after his tenure as Prime Minister. His governance was always centered on inclusivity, believing that no region, community, or individual should be left behind in India’s growth. His leadership during economic reforms was guided by the belief that policies must create equal opportunities for all, not just the privileged few. Dr. Singh’s vision and wisdom shaped every decision he made. His ability to listen to people from all regions and understand their concerns was extraordinary. He never allowed any community’s challenges to be sidelined in national policy. As we bid farewell to this great statesman, I remember his unwavering commitment to uplifting all people, regardless of their background. His belief in inclusive development was not just a political slogan but a guiding principle that transformed lives. Dr. Singh’s legacy will continue to inspire future leaders. His approach to economic policy, focused on equity, opportunity, and fairness, remains a model for all. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have worked with him and for the lasting impact he had on the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the entire nation. Rest in peace, Dr. Manmohan Singh. Your leadership will continue to inspire us all for generations to come. Syed Shakeel Qalander, Social Activist and Former President, Federation of Chamber of Industries of Kashmir

With no bowl game this season, the Bruins try to stop a four-game losing streak against Fresno State in their season finale Saturday at the Rose BowlVancouver Island urged to plan ahead for the next bout of wild weatherA new documentary by German filmmakers is set to offer a less-than-glowing review of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s efforts to establish them as extremely wealthy global influencers and philanthropists since they departed royal life nearly five years ago. “Harry and Meghan set the bar very high,” Ulrike Grunewald, the director of “The Lost Prince,” . The documentary is set to air in Germany on Tuesday. “They want to be global benefactors who bring about tangible change. So far, they have not lived up to this image at all.” For the 45-minute film, Grunewald wanted to look into whether the Duke and Duchess of Sussex succeeded in “finding freedom” by leaving the U.K. and moving to the United States. During their exit, the couple also vowed to become financially independent entrepreneurs and world-renowned thought leaders. To answer questions about the couple’s post-“Megxit” life, Grunewald said she did reporting in the couple’s new hometown of Montecito, looked into the work of their Archewell Foundation and Harry’s involvement in the Invictus Games and examined recent reports that they’ve “separated” — at least professionally. “I was interested in whether Harry and Meghan’s strategies for an independent life are working,” Grunewald said. “After four years, the results are very mixed.” “Now they mainly appear separately, as they were unable to create a functioning image together,” Grunewald said. They have come down to earth.” On one hand, Harry may have found a new sense of personal freedom by leaving the confines of royal life. “To be fair, from his point of view Harry wanted the best for his own family,” Grunewald said. “And sure he has now gained valuable experience in California and learned what it means to have to stand on his own two feet. He would never have been able to do that in the close circle of the royal family.” But Harry now has decide for himself what he has to offer to the world, Grunewald said. Sure, he still carries “the glamor” of being the son of King Charles III and of the late Princess Diana, Grunewald said. “But in the tough atmosphere of the Hollywood industry,” this allure can wear off, she said. Grunewald is likely referring to the couple’s struggles to become Hollywood media moguls. In late 2020, Harry and his American TV actor wife signed multimillion-dollar deals with Netflix and Spotify, saying that they planned to create “impactful” content “that informs,” “gives hope” and “unlocks action.” But the couple notoriously parted ways with Spotify in 2023, after Meghan only produced one 12-episode podcast and they were branded “grifters” by one of the platform’s executives and star podcasters, Bill Simmons. As for Netflix, they starred in “Harry and Meghan,” their blockbuster 2022 blockbuster docu-series about their acrimonious departure from royal life. But they also began to lose some public good will in both the U.K. and the United States, due to the perception that they had gone too far in publicly criticizing Harry’s royal relatives in the docu-series and in interviews. While lovers of royal gossip also turned Harry’s 2023 memoir, “Spare,” into a global best-seller, it also became clear that some people started to become uncomfortable with Harry’s choice to reveal family secrets. “People have long memories and few revelations can be more damaging to their image than the private details that Harry and Meghan have made public themselves in the last few years,” Grunewald said. Meanwhile, their Netflix partnership has gone “somewhat downhill,” . Harry’s documentary about his work with the Invictus Games failed to make Netflix top 10, and there’s still no sign of Meghan’s Netflix cooking show, which is said to have been finished over the summer. Next week, Netflix releases “Polo,” a documentary series that the couple co-executive produced. But neither Harry nor Meghan appear in the series, which happens to be about an elite sport that most people probably don’t care about. The trailer also tries to market the documentary as a Bravo-like reality TV show about “dirty, sweaty boys ... riding” — hardly “impactful” content that “gives hope” and “unlocks action.” Former British friends of Harry reportedly were left in “appalled hysterics” over the “tacky” new series, while a Hollywood executive cautioned that the couple were “running out of last chances” to prove they can make compelling TV that is not about themselves, The Daily Mail preview about the new German documentary doesn’t address whether it looks into Meghan’s other commercial endeavors, including the premiere of her Netflix cooking show which could coincide with the launch of her new life-style brand, American Riviera Orchard. But Meghan’s company has been about bureaucratic difficulties with the US trademarks office and questions over whether she has the business savvy to get her line of strawberry jam and other products ready to sell. Harry and Meghan also may be struggling in other areas of their post-Megxit life, according to “The Lost Prince.” For one thing, the couple don’t appear to have “integrated” themselves into Montecito’s elite social circles, Grunewald told the Daily Mail. “The cultural life is very lively, but everything often takes place in closed circles and Harry and Meghan rarely take part in these activities,” Grunewald said. “They seem have isolated themselves a lot.” In the past four years, Harry and Meghan, together or separately, have turned up at a few star-studded events in and around Montecito and Santa Barbara. For example, in 2023, they attended Kevin Costner’s annual star-studded fundraiser for local first responders at his estate near Santa Barbara. More recently, they appeared at the September launch of a new book store near their Montecito home, owned by celebrated literary agent Jennifer Rudolph Walsh and cosmetics mogul Victoria Jackson, said to be a good friend of Meghan’s. Their Montecito neighbors Oprah Winfrey and Ellen DeGeneres also joined the party, though DeGeneres has recently left California and established a new home in the U.K. Nonetheless, Grunewald’s documentary suggests that Harry and Meghan don’t spend much time in Montecito. A neighbor, Richard Mineards, told Grunewald that the couple haven’t set out to “put down particularly deep roots” in the area. Every once in a while, they’re seen at the local market or on walks — always with security guards in tow. “Sometimes you will see her at the farmers’ market or with a dog, but generally you don’t see her and you just don’t see much of him,” Mineards said. As for the Archewell Foundation, Grunewald argues that the nonprofit, launched with great fanfare in 2020, doesn’t seem to be effectively organized, while the Invictus Games appears to be a bright spot in the couple’s portfolio — even if the filmmaker said that Harry is little more than “a figurehead.” Harry founded the International sports competition for wounded veterans and service people. Jack Royston, the royal reporter for Newsweek, is reportedly interviewed for “The Lost Prince” and says, “I believe that Invictus is genuine and authentic work. Harry is completely devoted to it.”

CSU faculty, students rally against Board of Trustees policies