AHMEDABAD: This year, one Indian was deported every six hours from the US, according to the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Report released on Dec 19. The number of Indians deported has grown by 400% between 2021 (292 out of total 59,011 deported) and 2024 (1,529 out of 2,71,484). A senior officer of an Indian central agency said, "The fluctuations in removal numbers over the years can be attributed to various factors, including changes in US immigration policies, enforcement priorities, and bilateral agreements between the US and India. The increase in 2024 may also reflect broader migration trends and enforcement actions targeting individuals without legal status in the US." During the Covid years of 2019 and 2020, under Donald Trump's first term as US president, a total of 3,928 (1,616 and 2,312, respectively) illegal Indian immigrants were sent back. Comparatively, in 2021 when Joe Biden took office as US president, the total number of Indians deported till the report's release in 2024 had reached 3,467. ICE has already drawn up a list of individuals slated for deportation, and nearly 18,000 undocumented Indians find themselves facing the prospect of being sent back home. ICE data until Nov 2024 shows that 17,940 Indians are among the 14.4 lakh individuals on the non-detained docket with final orders of removal from the US. Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India . Don't miss daily games like Crossword , Sudoku , Location Guesser and Mini Crossword .

Commentary: Where does Allianz withdrawal leave Income Insurance?Industrialist Elon Musk has seen his wealth surge over the past few weeks in tandem with the rising share price of Tesla, placing him further above on the wealthiest list. On Nov. 5, the day of the presidential election, Tesla stock closed at around $251. The company’s shares ended Dec. 11 at over $424, an increase of almost 69 percent. Musk’s net worth also rose more than 69 percent during this period. The Tesla CEO has a roughly 13 percent stake in the electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer. Tesla’s $424 stock price is the highest ever for the company, beating the previous high set in November 2021. On Thursday, shares breached the $429 level before retreating to around $423 as of 12:05 p.m. EST. Tesla’s potential in terms of autonomous vehicles is $1 trillion, Wedbush said. “FSD (full self-driving), autonomous, and the launch of Cybercab for early 2026 are keys for Tesla.” “Furthermore, the weakening macroeconomic environment in global/China markets can also pose headwinds to volume sales.” An investigation into the matter by the National Transportation Safety Board found that the driver of the vehicle was potentially distracted for five seconds, which contributed to the crash. However, the agency pointed out that the system “did not provide an effective means of monitoring the driver’s level of engagement with the driving task.” While Tesla remains a key contributor to Musk’s enormous wealth, the entrepreneur has ownership in several major ventures. He is estimated to hold a 79 percent interest in social media platform X, and owns around 42 percent of shares in space tech enterprise SpaceX. Musk has stakes in artificial intelligence venture xAI, neurotechnology company Neuralink, and an infrastructure business, The Boring Company. DOGE is not a federal agency but an advisory board tasked with finding ways to slash excess regulations, cut down wasteful government expenditure, and restructure federal agencies.Former General Secretary of the Convention People’s Party (CPP), Nana Yaa Jantuah, has voiced sharp criticism against Ghana’s Electoral Commission (EC) following allegations of manipulation in the 2024 general elections. Her concerns come amid heightened tensions surrounding the transparency and credibility of the electoral process, as reported by GhanaWeb. Nana Yaa Jantuah’s remarks highlight growing skepticism about the EC’s handling of the elections. She accused the Commission of acting in ways that undermined public confidence, particularly regarding the declaration of results. These allegations have intensified debates about the neutrality of the EC and its role in ensuring fair elections. This isn’t the first time the EC has faced backlash. Political analysts and stakeholders have pointed out inconsistencies in the electoral process that fueled public mistrust. Nana Yaa Jantuah’s comments echo broader concerns among opposition parties, civil society organizations, and voters about the integrity of the 2024 elections. Her criticisms come at a time when the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has been celebrating a decisive victory, securing 187 parliamentary seats. However, the NDC’s victory has not gone without challenges, as it is still pursuing additional seats in contested constituencies. Former NPP National Chairman Freddie Blay has also weighed in, expressing surprise at the NDC’s determination to secure more seats despite their significant gains. “I’m surprised that NDC has won 187, and still chasing after two, three seats,” he stated, reflecting on the intense political competition. Meanwhile, other political figures, like Nana Obiri Boahen of the NPP, have described the election results as unusual, pointing to the NPP’s unexpected defeat in key strongholds. Nana Yaa Jantuah’s accusations against the EC have added to the controversy, with calls for reforms to address perceived flaws in the electoral system. Her criticism serves as a rallying cry for greater accountability, particularly as political parties and stakeholders reflect on the election’s outcomes. As discussions about the 2024 elections continue, many are urging the EC to address the allegations to rebuild public trust. Nana Yaa Jantuah’s statements underline the importance of transparency and fairness in safeguarding Ghana’s democracy. The spotlight now falls on the Electoral Commission to respond to these concerns and ensure future elections are conducted with integrity.

Tyler Bertuzzi has been an enigma this season. The biggest signing of the Chicago Blackhawks’ 2024 free agency was in a murky middle of knowing that he wasn’t producing enough, but also knowing that would probably not last. After all, there have been talks and jokes all season long about Bertuzzi being notorious for slow starts. Even last season with the Toronto Maple Leafs, he didn’t start to find his footing until January. It looks like the tides are turning earlier, as the Blackhawks are in December, and Bertuzzi is heating up. He has three goals in his last two games, his best goal-scoring stretch of the season. He is also a plus-2 in that span. (13 points in 29 games this season) When Bertuzzi and even general manager Kyle Davidson spoke after the signing, they alluded to Bertuzzi’s competitive streak that he could bring to the locker room. It seemed to come in spurts this season, but he has never gone more than four games this season without producing a point. Last night’s game against the New York Islanders, I thought, was the perfect example of what Bertuzzi excels at as a player. There was a point in the third period with less than two minutes left, where he laid a hit on Islanders’ defenseman Scott Mayfield behind the net, which caused Mayfield to turn the puck over to Tayor Hall, who then got the puck to Bertuzzi for a goal in front. It made the score 5-3. Then, a minute later, he netted another goal by deflecting Alex Vlasic’s shot in front of the net. Notice a pattern? He is always scrapping in front of the net. Frankly, I think Bertuzzi’s net-front presence makes him one of the most important players on the team right now. It comes up hugely in the power play and for those greasy goals. Unfortunately, his two goals weren’t enough for the Blackhawks to overcome their 5-1 deficit in Long Island, but it shows that a team struggling to find a rhythm on offense needs more of the net-front presence. It reminds me of Andrew Shaw’s role during the dynasty years. He excelled at parking in front, screening the goalie, and scrapping for goals, similar to Bertuzzi, although he has more offensive firepower than Shaw. He seems to have found a successful second-line pairing with Ryan Donato and Taylor Hall, Hall especially. It seems like Bertuzzi and Hall’s previous familiarity from their Boston Bruins days is paying off, as they’re positively influencing each other. Hall has three points in his last two games, too. They’re both finally finding their stride, which was much needed for the team’s veterans. After the Blackhawks beat the New York Rangers, 2-1 (in which Bertuzzi scored), head coach Anders Sorensen said about him , “I really liked his intensity and the way he competed. Right? I thought that line was really good. I thought Donny’s [Ryan Donato] line there with Taylor Hall was really good. They drove, I thought they drove the pace for us early in the game, and it was really fun to watch.” When asked about Sorensen’s new system seemingly fitting his style of play better after their 5-4 loss to the Islanders, Bertuzzi replied , “Yeah, like I said, it just helps us get on the forecheck, try to create turnovers. You know, our D are down keeping pucks alive, and it showed obviously in New York, and you know, for half of the game tonight.” That competitive drive that he, Davidson, and now Sorensen mentioned is coming alive, and it makes the team better. As Sorensen said, it drives the pace of the game. It causes a good domino effect. Now, he will play alongside Frank Nazar, who was recently recalled from the Rockford IceHogs , and he and Hall could be a great complement to Nazar due to their vet presence and game styles. The Blackhawks are finally getting the player they signed for in Bertuzzi, which is very encouraging. This article first appeared on Chicago Hockey Now and was syndicated with permission.

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Tijjani Reijnders has scored twice and helped AC Milan get back to winning ways in Serie A against visiting Empoli. The Netherlands midfielder netted either side of halftime at a foggy San Siro on Saturday after Alvaro Morata opened the scoring. The 3-0 victory keeps Milan in seventh, six points behind Atalanta, Inter Milan, Fiorentina and Lazio — who are all locked on 28 points — and seven below league leaders Napoli. Empoli are 10th, but only five points above the relegation zone. In their last home match, Milan were heavily jeered by their fans after drawing with Juventus 0-0, and had won only one of their past four league matches. The Rossoneri took the lead in the 19th minute. Rafael Leao's shot was blocked by Empoli defender Ardian Ismajli but ricocheted into the path of Morata on the left of the area and he volleyed into the bottom near corner. Milan doubled their tally on the stroke of halftime when a cross was flicked on by Christian Pulisic and fell to Reijnders, who let it bounce before smashing it into the bottom left corner on the half volley. Reijnders' second effectively sealed the result in the 69th. He latched onto a Youssouf Fofana through ball in midfield, raced forward, and fired past Empoli goalkeeper Devis Vasquez, who is on loan from Milan. "We played a great game against a team that is very aggressive defensively, which has the fourth-best defence in the championship," AC Milan coach Paulo Fonseca said. "We scored three goals but could have scored six or seven if we hadn't made the wrong last choices." Elsewhere, Como and Monza remain mired in the relegation zone after a hard-fought derby that finished 1-1. Como inched level on points with 17th-placed Genoa, with Monza a point further back. Yannik Engelhardt headed Como in front in the 36th and Gianluca Caprari levelled from the spot early in the second half after Nico Paz was penalised for handball. Venezia stayed bottom after a fourth straight defeat, this time 3-0 at Bologna. Dan Ndoye scored twice for the hosts, including a penalty, and Riccardo Orsolini also converted a spot kick. With Reuters.

5 beaten-up ASX shares being bought by insidersOscar Fairs from Benfleet, Essex, was diagnosed with a rare 7cm ependymoma brain tumour in August 2023 and underwent seven surgeries, one round of chemotherapy and one round of radiotherapy to be told palliative care was the only option. A GoFundMe page was set up to help the family raise £100,000 towards a treatment trial in France. It is with deep and profound sadness that West Ham United confirm the tragic passing of our U15s Academy goalkeeper Oscar Fairs, following his brave battle with cancer. Rest in peace, brave Oscar. — West Ham United (@WestHam) December 13, 2024 West Ham footballers donated £27,000, chairman David Sullivan donated £10,000 and Arsenal footballer and former West Ham star Declan Rice gave £5,000, according to Ms Fairs. On Friday, West Ham announced that the 15-year-old had died. Sporting director Mark Noble said: “Oscar was adored by everyone at the Academy – not only was he a great goalkeeper, he was a true Hammer and a fantastic young person, who will be deeply missed by everyone who had the pleasure to know him. “I have wonderful memories of Oscar playing in my garden – (my son) Lenny and his teammates all loved him. “He was a friendly, happy, well-mannered and polite young man, who had such a bright future ahead of him, and it is just so unimaginably devastating that he has been taken from his family and friends at this age. “The thoughts and sincere condolences of everyone at the Club are with Oscar’s parents, Natalie and Russell, and his brother Harry, and we kindly ask that the family’s privacy is respected at this extremely difficult time.” All scheduled Academy fixtures over the weekend have been postponed as a mark of respect.(BPT) - Every year, roughly 20-30% of older Americans head to warmer climates for the colder winter months. 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Warmth and sunlight not only increase serotonin levels , which can result in more positive moods and a calm, focused mental outlook, but they also stimulate vitamin D production and may even boost immunity ," said Elvira Christiansen, Director of Retail and Loyalty for AARP Services. "An AARP membership makes it even better by offering savings as you plan your trip, as well as at many dining, entertainment and retail locations you will come across in your winter getaway destination, helping you to enjoy it to the fullest." 1. Order Up Road trips are often the preferred way to travel to a winter home for the flexibility of having a car once there. Whether your drive will have you behind the wheel for hours or days, you'll want to make sure you have your meals planned out. Fill up with a tasty breakfast or lunch with a stop at Denny's, which is easy to spot from most major highways. AARP members can save when heading to Denny's . With over 1,500 locations nationwide, members save 15% on everything from diner classics to breakfast items every day; maximum discount not to exceed $10. Restrictions apply. 2. Primary Care from Almost Anywhere Feeling under the weather can put a damper on your winter travels, so it's a good idea to make sure you can access quality healthcare even when you're at your winter destination. If you are on Medicare, you can check whether there is an Oak Street Health primary care clinic near you. Oak Street Health , the only primary care provider to carry the AARP name, provides primary care for adults on Medicare and focuses on prevention with personalized care to help keep you healthy — physically, mentally and socially. Benefits include same-day/next-day appointments where available, convenient locations, a dedicated care team and a 24/7 patient support line. AARP membership is not required to visit an Oak Street Health clinic. 3. 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There have been allegations by Kabul that Pakistani forces have carried out air strikes in the Barmal district of Afghanistan's Paktika province. Taliban's spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid has alleged that four locations in Barmal district had been target resulting in the death of 46 people. Pakistan's Foreign Office has, however, denied such allegations, instead saying that an intelligence-based operation has been carried out against terrorists in "border areas". Pakistan maintains that terrorist attacks emanating from across the border have been a grave threat. Just two days before the allegations of attack in Barmal, a group of heavily armed TTP militants had stormed a security outpost in South Waziristan that resulted in the martyrdom of 16 Pakistani soldiers. There is thus likelihood that this deadliest attack in recent months on Pakistani security forces may have triggered a military response. The allegations from Kabul also coincided with a high-level Pakistani political delegation sitting on the negotiating table with their Taliban counterparts in the Afghan capital to figure out the complexity of the issue of cross-border terrorism that surrounds and overshadows everything else between the relations of the two countries. In geopolitics, geography predominantly dictates the type of politics that any two states may engage in. For over four decades now, Pakistan has showcased a lackluster Afghan policy and the classic example of that is the current event - a day on which a political dialogue was held and allegation of air strikes surfaced simultaneously. Afghanistan has used asymmetric warfare to defeat two superpowers. History tells us that Afghans have proved time and again that small battle field victories by a much bigger enemy can be turned into strategic defeat. But we are not the enemy of Afghanistan, we are a brotherly country that not only shares border with them but their deep concerns also. Something is not right, for us to not have a workable Afghan policy - one that prevents us from accepting that Afghanistan is a sovereign state; and living under the yoke of Westphalian principles we must remain shackled as a state when it comes to initiating a military response. Has Afghanistan not proved that with them no kind of deterrence works specially deterrence by punishment as they are the people who don't stop hoping and willing to die? Pakistan's state response, though I haven't heard of it but I assume it will be based on the fact that doing nothing means capitulating to TTP's aggression and such a weakness would invite more attacks. But the big question is the right management of this asymmetric challenge emanating from Afghanistan. Should our response be through conventional military power on a sovereign country based on our assessment of any future threats developing from there? Striking a balance between defensive and offensive measures for managing asymmetric threat is not only a challenge for Pakistan but for the entire world in the 21st Century. In the case of Pakistan, it becomes more critical as it comes from a state with whom we share a huge border that is porous. I remember writing a few months ago about how Russia faced a similar threat from its south western region when it started expanding in the eastern region of Siberia in the early 20th Century. What Russia did was construct over 240 fortified outposts manned by Cossacks to prevent any infiltration towards their eastern border. That brought relief in the lives of locals who came back to the abandoned lands and started living a normal life. Not by punishment but denial we should also create the much-needed deterrence against the TTP threat emanating from Afghanistan. Military training teaches us that for any strategy that is hoping to work, it must correctly identify the core area, the area of the greatest vulnerability of the targeted country - its centre of gravity. Needless to say our country's greatest vulnerability today is the lack of 'political will'. We would not want any non-state actors to hit us at a time when politics in Pakistan is all over the place. Autocracy in Pakistan is already being judged by the outside world for lack of tolerance, violations of human rights, political oppression and strong curbs on public freedom and liberty. Military response to the asymmetric threats provides short-term tactical gains but result in long-term problems. Ask Britain, the Netherlands and Canada that provided combat troops for NATO when it took over in 2005 the responsibility to fight in Afghanistan. Having no experience of conducting counter-insurgency operations, these countries learnt value lessons at an unintended cost when their ordeal ended and the NATO combat operations finally ended in Afghanistan in 2014. Even one can write about the cost Russia paid for its military response to the Chechnya's threat in the 90s, as despite over 200,000 death Chechens kept visiting the Russian heartland. These examples show us that fighting a war against a tactic rather than developing a clear plan to defeat a strategy can play in the hands of the enemy. Even the 9/11 attack and the disproportionate US response show how such a response creates new dilemmas such as military interventions, preemptive wars, homeland defence and peacekeeping and peace promoting operations. All of them are avoidable if you don't respond to a tactics but demonstrate patience to create a sound strategy to deal with it. It is famously said "give a small boy a hammer and he will find that everything he encounters need pounding" or in other words "if the only tool you have is a hammer, you will treat everything as if it was a nail". In my humble opinion the best tool to utilise to work with Afghanistan is diplomacy and that can only come from politicians who conduct politics on the basis of formulation of a sound government that has the popular approval of the people. Those that imagine that a military response can create more security must realise that paradoxically it creates more insecurity. COMMENTS Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive. For more information, please see ourGeorgia QB Carson Beck declares for 2025 NFL Draft, forgoes remaining year of eligibility

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