Many U.S. taxpayers could get bigger tax refunds Application seasonthanks to expanded deductions introduced in last year’s sweeping tax legislation. Tax professionals say the changes could significantly reduce the taxable income of some workers, seniors and buyers, potentially increasing refunds.
According to the IRS, early filing data already indicates an upward trend in refunds this season. (Associated Press)
The updated law expands tax breaks for several categories of income earners. according to IRSearly filing data already points to an upward trend in refunds this quarter.
Mark Steber of Jackson-Hewitt Tax Services told KGW the reforms are the biggest tax shifts he’s seen in decades. “We’re not just expecting more refunds, we’re expecting more refunds,” he said.
Tip income deduction
Service industry workers will benefit from new deductions from qualified tip income. Eligible taxpayers can deduct up to $25,000 from reported tips, reducing taxable income and potentially increasing their refund.
The change could have a meaningful impact on bartenders, servers and hotel workers whose income relies heavily on tips.
Tax deduction for overtime wages
Employees who work overtime may also be eligible for benefits. The law allows eligible workers to deduct up to $12,500 of overtime earnings, providing additional savings for workers who work significant amounts of overtime in a year.
Incentives related to U.S.-assembled vehicles
taxpayer Vehicles purchased in 2025 that were assembled in the United States may be eligible for an interest deduction. Even without itemized deductions, buyers with a qualified auto loan can deduct up to $10,000 in loan interest, Steber explains.
Americans 65 and older can claim an additional $6,000 in deductions, up to $12,000 if married couples file jointly. The provision is intended to offset the tax burden faced by many seniors, including taxes on Social Security benefits.
Early filing data from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) shows that the average refund amount is about 14% higher than this time last year, indicating that the expanded deductions have affected returns.
Tax professionals recommend carefully reviewing qualifications or consulting with a tax expert to ensure all applicable deductions are claimed.
With electricity bills steadily rising, many buyers are turning to five-star refrigerators in the hope of long-term savings. Brands promise lower power consumption, advanced inverter compressors and greater efficiency, but does a higher star rating actually translate into significant savings at home, or is it just clever marketing?
The best five-star refrigerators to keep food fresh and energy bills low (generated by artificial intelligence)
In this article, we break down how 5-star refrigerator ratings actually work and what they mean for everyday electricity usage. We look beyond labels to understand the real-world factors that impact electricity bills, such as usage patterns, home size, cooling technology and compressor efficiency.
What’s more, we highlight refrigerator models designed for maximum energy savings without compromising performance or storage.
If you want low energy bills without thinking too much about features, this Samsung five-star refrigerator is a great choice. The 215L capacity is suitable for 2-3 people. The digital inverter compressor works quietly without frequent power peaks. Cooling is fast, food stays fresh longer, and direct cooling systems are easy to maintain.
The base drawer is actually useful for onions or potatoes, and operation without a stabilizer means less worries during voltage fluctuations. Overall, it feels practical, efficient, and designed for everyday use by Indians.
Why choose this product?
This is a no-nonsense five-star refrigerator that saves energy, runs quietly, handles voltage fluctuations well, and offers just the right amount of capacity for a small family without increasing your monthly energy bill.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers say the refrigerator looks high-end, has ample storage space, and feels like a good value for money. Some praised its cooling and quiet performance, while others reported cooling issues, occasional malfunctions, high noise levels, and water leaks with long-term use.
If you’re looking for a compact refrigerator that will really help lower your energy bills, look no further than this LG 185L model. It’s perfect for couples, singles, or small families who don’t need a lot of storage space. The intelligent inverter compressor adjusts cooling according to load without wasting electricity.
The cooling feels consistent, it freezes quickly, and the vegetable drawer stays fresh longer than expected. The base drawer facilitates dry storage, and inverter compatibility is a big plus during power outages.
Why choose this product?
It offers true five-star efficiency, low annual power consumption, reliable inverter performance, fast ice production and useful everyday storage – perfect if you want to save money without paying unnecessary extras.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers say the refrigerator cools quickly and runs quietly, making it ideal for small families. One buyer calls it economical and consumes less power despite running 24/7. Others praise its stable cooling, attractive colors, value for money, and smooth delivery and hassle-free installation.
This Samsung 653L refrigerator is designed for large families who want space but don’t want their energy bills to skyrocket. Despite its size, the five-star rating and digital inverter compressor keep power consumption under control. The convertible 5-in-1 model is useful, allowing you to switch storage space based on season or usage.
Cooling is even between compartments, keeping food fresher longer, and WiFi-based energy tracking helps you keep track of your consumption. For a refrigerator this size, it feels premium, smart and surprisingly efficient.
Why choose this product?
It offers massive storage, controlled power usage, smart energy monitoring, flexible cooling modes and long-term reliability – ideal if you want a refrigerator that’s future-proofed without worrying about high electricity bills.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers say the refrigerator offers generous storage space, powerful cooling capabilities and a sleek, timeless design that blends well with their living spaces. Many praised its quiet operation and value for money, while some reported performance issues with the refrigerator and missing out on the dedicated ice bin.
This Godrej 194L refrigerator feels like it was designed for the average Indian household who wants to reduce their electricity bills and doesn’t need extra bells and whistles. The five-star rating and inverter technology help control electricity usage, even for daily opening and closing of doors. Turbo cooling actually works well when you need ice or chilled water quickly. Storage space is reasonable, with a spacious vegetable tray and a bottom drawer for onions and potatoes. It’s simple, sturdy, and focused on cooling efficiency rather than flashy features.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers say the refrigerator has good build quality, an attractive design and plenty of storage space, all at a reasonable price. Many appreciate its energy efficiency and lower electricity bills, but users still have mixed opinions on cooling performance and noise levels.
Why choose this product?
It is a reliable 5-star refrigerator with fast cooling, low power consumption, sturdy insulation and practical storage features, making it an ideal choice if you want savings, durability and daily convenience at an affordable price.
If you want reliable cooling, low energy bills, and the added peace of mind of a warranty, then this IFB 197L refrigerator is your best choice. The five-star rating combined with an advanced inverter compressor keeps power consumption low even with regular use. Cool quickly, freeze quickly, and large vegetable crispers with humidity control actually help vegetables stay fresher longer.
It also maintains good cooling during power outages, which is useful in many homes. Overall, it feels sturdy, functional and designed for everyday Indian cooking needs.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers say the refrigerator offers excellent cooling, quiet operation, great value for money, and a pleasing design. Some think this type of storage is suitable for smaller families, while others point to limited dry storage, thermostat issues, and a slightly flimsy freezer door.
Why choose this product?
Its combination of low annual power consumption, strong cooling retention during power outages, ample storage space, and one of the best warranty packages out there makes it a solid long-term choice for small homes.
This Whirlpool 207L refrigerator is designed for homes that experience frequent voltage fluctuations and power outages. Intellisense inverter compressors keep cooling stable while consuming less electricity, which helps keep your monthly bills in check. Cooling feels even, milk stays fresh longer, and the Magic Cooler comes in handy for quick cooling needs. Storage is flexible and the bottom drawer is perfect for storing dry items. It’s not flashy, but it’s reliable, efficient, and designed for everyday Indian kitchen habits.
Why choose this product?
It delivers stable low-voltage cooling, reliable five-star efficiency, good shelf life, and solid build quality, making it a safe choice for long-term use and controlling power costs.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers said that the Whirlpool refrigerator has good cooling effect, runs quietly, and is suitable for two people. However, one buyer six months later reported defrost and fungus issues, additional repair costs, delivery fees, and poor service response, saying the Samsung was more reliable.
Can Five-Star Refrigerators Really Reduce Electricity Bills?
Yes, a five-star refrigerator consumes significantly less energy than a lower-rated refrigerator, especially when used over a long period of time. Compared with three-star refrigerators, it can save 20-30% of electricity on average. However, actual savings depend on usage habits, ambient temperature, and frequency of door openings. If used effectively, annual electricity bills can be significantly reduced.
Is a five-star refrigerator worth the higher upfront price?
Five-star refrigerators typically have a higher initial cost, but the investment pays off over time through lower energy bills. For households that use their refrigerator frequently or run it around the clock, the savings over 5-7 years can offset the price difference. This also makes sense if electricity prices are high in your area.
Is a five-star refrigerator inverter compressor important?
Yes, inverter compressors play a key role in energy efficiency. Unlike traditional compressors that turn on and off, inverter compressors adjust cooling based on usage and internal load. This reduces power consumption, ensures stable cooling and reduces wear. Today, most five-star refrigerators use inverter technology to achieve higher efficiency ratings.
Factors to consider when buying a five-star refrigerator
1. Annual energy consumption (units/year): Check the annual electricity consumption units on the BEE label, as there is still a big difference in the actual electricity consumption of two five-star refrigerators.
2. Refrigerator capacity and family size: Choose the capacity based on the family size. Oversized refrigerators, even five-star refrigerators, can use more power if the space is not fully utilized.
3. Inverter compressor efficiency: Most five-star refrigerators use inverter compressors, but the efficiency varies. Look for models with proven power-saving performance and longer compressor warranties.
4. Usage habits and placement: Although the refrigerator is a five-star refrigerator, frequent opening of the door, overloading, or placing the refrigerator near a heat source will reduce efficiency and increase power consumption.
5. Long-term cost vs. upfront price: If the long-term power savings and durability outweigh the price difference compared to a lower-star model, the higher upfront cost is justified.
Three Features of the Best Five-Star Refrigerators
Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay updated with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has affiliate partnerships, so we may get a share of the revenue when you make a purchase. We are not responsible for any claims relating to the products under applicable law (including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act 2019). The products listed in this article are in no particular order of preference.
New Delhi: The International Cricket Council on Tuesday unveiled the complete schedule for the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, setting the stage for the biggest tournament in the history of the tournament, with 12 teams vying for the coveted title in England from June 12 to July 5.Push boundaries with our YouTube channel. Subscribe now!Hosts England will take on Sri Lanka on June 12, marking the start of an exciting almost month-long campaign that will culminate with the final at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground on July 5. India will begin its campaign against Pakistan on June 14 at Edgbaston.This competition will use the largest competition venue ever. Bangladesh, Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands have secured the final four spots through Nepal qualifiers, joining defending champions New Zealand, six-time champions Australia, 2016 champions West Indies, hosts England, ODI world champions India, Pakistan, South Africa and Sri Lanka.Several high-profile clashes are expected in the group stages.
Group A includes heavyweights Australia, India, Pakistan, South Africa, Bangladesh and the Netherlands, who are participating in the tournament for the first time.
Group B includes England, New Zealand, West Indies, Sri Lanka, Ireland and Scotland.
International ICC chief executive Sanjog Gupta described the release of the fixture list as an important moment for the global game.“The release of the fixture list is an important milestone in the build-up to the world’s premier sporting event,” Gupta said, stressing the governing body’s continued investment in women’s cricket by broadening participation, improving access, raising production standards and increasing commercial opportunities.He added that recent global events have helped to raise the standard of the women’s game and expressed confidence that the upcoming competition will further strengthen its popularity and global influence.“The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India brings a force multiplier to the sport – breaking records, igniting imaginations and inspiring communities – and we aim to carry this momentum into the June-July tournament,” he added.
2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Complete Schedule
Friday 12 June: England vs Sri Lanka, Edgbaston 18:30 BST
Saturday 13 June: Scotland v Ireland, Old Trafford, 10:30 BST
Saturday 13 June: Australia v South Africa, Old Trafford 14:30 BST
Saturday 13 June: West Indies vs New Zealand, Hampshire Bowl 18:30 BST
Sunday 14 June: Bangladesh v Netherlands, Edgbaston 10:30 BST
Sunday 14 June: India v Pakistan, Edgbaston 14:30 BST
Tuesday 16 June: New Zealand vs Sri Lanka, Hampshire Bowl 14:30 BST
Tuesday 16 June: England v Ireland, Hampshire Bowl 18:30 BST
Wednesday 17 June: Australia v Bangladesh, Headingley 10:30 BST
Wednesday 17 June: India v Netherlands, Headingley 14:30 BST
Wednesday 17 June: South Africa v Pakistan, Edgbaston 18:30 BST
Thursday 18 June: West Indies v Scotland, Headingley 18:30 BST
Friday 19 June: New Zealand vs Ireland, Hampshire Bowl 18:30 BST
Saturday 20 June: Australia v Netherlands, Hampshire Bowl 10:30 BST
Saturday 20 June: Pakistan v Bangladesh, Hampshire Bowl 14:30 BST
Saturday 20 June: England v Scotland, Headingley 18:30 BST
Sunday 21 June: West Indies v Sri Lanka, Bristol County Ground, 10:30 BST
Sunday 21 June: South Africa v India, Old Trafford, 14:30 BST
Tuesday 23 June: New Zealand vs Scotland, Bristol County Ground, 10:30 BST
Tuesday 23 June: Sri Lanka v Ireland, Bristol County Ground 14:30 BST
Tuesday 23 June: Australia v Pakistan, Headingley 18:30 BST
Wednesday 24 June: England v West Indies, Lord’s Cricket Ground 18:30 BST
Thursday 25 June: India v Bangladesh, Old Trafford, 14:30 BST
Thursday 25 June: South Africa v Netherlands, Bristol County Stadium 18:30 BST
Friday 26 June: Sri Lanka vs Scotland, Old Trafford, 18:30 BST
Saturday 27 June: Pakistan v Netherlands, Bristol County Stadium, 10:30 BST
Saturday 27 June: West Indies v Ireland, Bristol County Ground 14:30 BST
Saturday 27 June: England v New Zealand, The Oval 18:30 BST
Sunday 28 June: South Africa vs Bangladesh, Lord’s Cricket Ground, 10:30 BST
Sunday 28 June: Australia v India, Lord’s Cricket Ground, 14:30 BST
Tuesday 30 June: TBC v TBC (Semi-final 1), The Oval 14:30 BST
Thursday 2 July: TBC v TBC (Semi-final 2), The Oval 18:30 BST
AI images created by Chatgpt are for representative purposes only
New Delhi: NCERT’s new social science textbook for class 8 outlines the major challenges facing the country’s judicial system, including corruption, huge backlog of cases and insufficient number of judges.The revised chapter “The role of the judiciary in our society” not only explains the structure of courts and access to justice but also discusses systemic issues affecting the functioning of the judiciary, news agency PTI reported. Early versions of the textbook focused primarily on the organization and role of courts.Part of the new book discusses corruption within the justice system and its impact on access to justice, particularly for economically disadvantaged groups.“People do experience corruption at all levels of the justice system. For the poor and vulnerable, this can exacerbate access to justice problems. Therefore, there are ongoing efforts at the state and federal levels to build trust and increase transparency in the justice system, including through the use of technology, and to take swift and decisive action to combat any instances of corruption that may arise,” the chapter states.The textbook also provides data on the size of cases pending in each court. It is estimated that there are about 81,000 pending cases in the Supreme Court, 6.24 million cases pending in the High Courts and 4.70 million pending cases in the district and subordinate courts.In addition to highlighting the challenges, the book describes existing accountability mechanisms within the judiciary. It refers to the Centralized Public Grievances Handling and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) as the formal channel for filing complaints.According to the textbook, more than 1,600 complaints were made through CPGRAMS between 2017 and 2021.The chapter also quotes former Chief Justice of India BR Gavai, who in July 2025 spoke about the impact of misconduct and corruption on public trust in the judicial system.“However, the path to rebuilding this trust lies in taking swift, decisive and transparent action to address and resolve these issues… Transparency and accountability are democratic virtues,” he said.
Southern California has had an unusually wet winter this year. Storm after storm came in, flooding cities and even the driest desert valleys. Now, moisture begins to show its effects in a quieter, more colorful way. Wildflowers bloom in desert landscapes that often look harsh and lifeless. Visitors to Death Valley National Park have discovered patches of yellow, purple and orange scattered across the sand.Still, experts remain cautious. The flower looks promising and even impressive in places, but many say it hasn’t yet reached the stunning size of a true “super flower.” Time, temperature and wind patterns all play a role. Rain alone doesn’t tell the whole story. Currently, Southern California seems to be enjoying above-average blooms and it feels special, even if it stops right there in its desert history.
Death Valley presents ‘super boom’ prospects in 2026
Even Death Valley, known for being one of the hottest and driest places on Earth, receives about twice as much rainfall as is typical for the season. This sounds like the perfect super bloom fuel. Experts say the separation between storms is more important than raw totals. Seeds need early moisture, steady rainfall throughout the winter, and mild warmth in the spring to survive. Sudden heat waves or strong winds can dry out fragile plants before they can spread throughout the landscape.The term “super bloom” gets thrown around a lot. Erica Newman, an ecologist at James Madison University, said these events typically occur about once every decade and depend on a complex set of factors. Rainfall is only one piece of the larger puzzle, but soil, temperature and germination clues are also important. She reportedly noted that strong winds alone can damage young plants and prevent the blooms from spreading across the vast landscape associated with the classic superflower. Climate change adds another layer of uncertainty, subtly altering the seasonal patterns that plants have relied on for centuries.
Death Valley’s location makes it the “hottest place on Earth”
Death Valley is a large tectonic basin located primarily in Inyo County in southeastern California. It is widely considered to be the lowest, hottest and driest region in North America. The valley stretches about 140 miles (225 kilometers) from north to south and is between 5 and 15 miles (8 and 24 kilometers) wide. Mountains frame the landscape, with the Panamint Range extending to the west and the Amargosa Range’s Black Mountain, Funeral Mountain, and Grapevine Mountain forming its eastern boundary. The valley is located near the transition zone between the Great Basin and the Mojave Desert.The desert doesn’t usually reveal its color that easily. Most years, scattered blooms appear and then fade quickly. This season feels different. The latest from park officials, including the National Park Service, says blooms have begun in lower elevations and may continue into mid-to-late March. Roads such as Badwater Road and Highway 190 reportedly provide some of the best early displays. This unpredictability is part of the charm. If conditions permit, flowering at higher elevations may occur later, into April or even June. This staggered timing often leaves visitors lingering, hoping to see the desert’s peak.Rainfall totals this winter appear to be unusually strong. Downtown Los Angeles has received well above average rainfall since October. The percentages in nearby Burbank were even higher than normal.
Desert wonders in 2016 continue to influence bloom expectations
Many observers still compare each bloom to the famous 2016 event in Death Valley. That year, vast swathes of desert transformed into vibrant fields visible for miles. Attendance surged as visitors rushed to witness the rare spectacle.Interestingly, rainfall totals before flowering are not particularly high. The key appears to be well-timed early storms followed by favorable spring conditions. This year’s flowers may be felt more strongly in remote areas. However, the broad, landscape-scale coverage that defines superblooms has not yet been fully achieved. Visitors are already sharing photos of poppies, desert gold flowers and tiny purple flowers blooming in the sand.
renew: The Missouri State Highway Patrol said in a statement Facebook updates Richard Dean Byrd is in custody and the blue alert has been cancelled.
Where is Richard Dean Byrd? Missouri issues blue alert for suspect after fatal shooting of deputy (Missouri State Highway Patrol/Facebook)
The Missouri State Highway Patrol issued a blue alert out of Highlandville after a Christian County deputy was shot and killed, KMBC News reported. one hunt Richard Dean Bird, 45, was filming near Reeds Spring in Stone County. accused of shooting The adjutant is dead. The Highway Patrol said Byrd’s truck was found abandoned nearby.
Missouri State Highway Patrol wrote in a Facebook update“Blue Alert Update: The search is ongoing near Reeds Spring in Stone County for Richard Dean Bird, 45, who is accused of shooting a Christian County deputy. The suspect’s truck was found abandoned nearby. Call 911 to report sightings.”
According to komu.com, Byrd was armed with a gun. He is white, 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighs 145 pounds, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
The name of the deputy allegedly killed by Byrd has not been released. It’s unclear what led to the fatal encounter between the deputy and Byrd.
What is a Blue Alert?
Blue Alerts are similar to Amber Alerts in that both are issued to quickly get information out to the public. However, a Blue Alert indicates a threat to law enforcement and involves a suspect who has harmed or is at risk of harming a police officer.
According to the Arizona Department of Public Safety, “The purpose of the Blue Alert program is to establish a notification system that provides immediate information to the public after a violent attack on a law enforcement officer by issuing and coordinating alerts using a variety of resources. Blue Alert is designed to protect the public and police officers through effective information dissemination and communication that leads to the rapid and safe apprehension of suspects in the event of such an attack.”
New Delhi: Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi “Comrade Babar Sher” of the Indian Youth Congress (IYC) was detained on Tuesday for protesting during the Bharat Mandapam Artificial Intelligence Summit. He praised youth groups for fearlessly raising their voices and said “peaceful protest is our right.“His remarks came after Delhi Police arrested IYC national president Uday Bhanu Chib over protests held at the Bharat Mandapam on February 20 during the Artificial Intelligence Summit.Sharing a post on X, Rahul Gandhi said, “Peaceful protest is our historical legacy. It is in our blood and is the democratic right of every Indian. I am proud of Comrade Babar Sher in the Youth Congress who bravely spoke out against the ‘compromising Prime Minister’ in the interest of the country. “He claimed that the India-US trade agreement was detrimental to the national interest and “will harm our farmers and textile industry”.“The trade deal with the United States harms the country’s interests. This deal will harm our farmers and textile industry and hand over our data to the United States,” he said.He reiterated his party’s support for the protesters, adding, “The Congress party and I stand firmly with our comrade Babar Sher. Shining the mirror of power with truth is not a crime but patriotism. Do not be afraid – the truth and the Constitution are with us.”Earlier on Friday, around 10 IYC staff were detained after briefly raising slogans against the IYC. Prime Minister Narendra Modi Inside Hall 5, Bharat Mandapam during the Artificial Intelligence Summit.According to police, the incident occurred around 12:30 p.m. Another police chief, Devesh Mahla, said protesters had registered online for the summit.The group entered the venue wearing or carrying white T-shirts bearing images of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump. The T-shirts were also printed with slogans such as “India-US Trade Deal”, “Epstein Files” and “The Prime Minister is Damaged”. The protest reportedly erupted into heated arguments with some attendees before security personnel intervened.Officials said the detainees were being identified and appropriate legal action was being taken.Earlier in the day, Delhi police sought seven-day detention for Indian Youth Congress president Uday Bhanu Chib, who was arrested in connection with the protests. Chibu was arrested after questioning and later produced before a judicial magistrate at Patiala House Court.Police claimed there was a “common intention” behind the demonstrations and claimed Chib was the mastermind. According to investigators, he “orchestrated the plot” and arranged logistics and funding for the protests.Police sources told ANI that the protest case has been handed over to the Crime Branch of Delhi Police, which will investigate the matter further.Reacting to the arrest, Rahul Gandhi said it demonstrated “authoritarian tendencies and cowardice”.“The arrest of Youth Congress president Uday Bhanu Chib and other IYC comrades for telling this truth to the nation is proof of authoritarian tendencies and cowardice,” he said in a post on X.The “topless” protest triggered a political war of words, with leaders of the BJP and even rivals accusing the Congress party of masterminding the sabotage and “bringing shame to the country on a global platform”.Also read: ‘Providing logistics’ for ‘topless’ protest: Why Delhi police arrested Youth Congress chief Uday Bhanu
Every Ramadan, hundreds of prisoners regain their freedom in the UAE after paying off their debts. Behind many of these releases was Firoz Merchant, a Dubai-based Indian businessman whose long-standing commitment to helping insolvent prisoners has grown to include direct financial support for cancer patients struggling with rising medical costs.This year’s event reflects a broader humanitarian approach, combining debt relief with medical aid during the holy month.Firoz Merchant is an Indian billionaire businessman and philanthropist living in Dubai. He founded Pure Gold Group in 1989 and built it into a large jewelry retail chain with more than 170 stores in 13 countries.In addition to business, Merchant maintains a record of ongoing philanthropic activities, with a particular focus on debt settlement and humanitarian causes for UAE prisoners.
Release of insolvent prisoners across UAE
Launched in 2008, Merchant’s charity program has helped free more than 20,000 prisoners across the UAE who were detained for financial reasons. The initiative is implemented in coordination with the relevant authorities and in partnership with the Khalifa Foundation.It covers multiple emirates, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah.497 prisoners have been released during Ramadan 2026, with many more cases being reviewed for possible release during Ramadan.The scale of the initiative was particularly evident in 2025, when 2,972 prisoners from more than 50 countries were released. A total of Dh2.4 million has been allocated to clear outstanding debts. The support extends beyond debt settlement and includes the purchase of return tickets for eligible individuals, allowing them to return to their home countries.While launches are scheduled throughout the year, activity typically increases significantly during Ramadan.
Expanding assistance for cancer patients
In addition to debt relief, this year’s Ramadan plans also emphasize health care support.On February 18, the first day of the holy month, Merchant met with officials from the Abu Dhabi Cancer Patient Care Association to explore mechanisms to provide financial assistance to patients facing rising treatment costs.In 2025, he donated AED 1 million through Dubai Charity Society to cover dialysis and related medical expenses for 11 patients in need of financial support.The 2026 Campaign therefore combines two aspects of assistance: helping individuals detained for unpaid financial obligations and supporting patients who cannot afford basic medical care.His Ramadan 2026 initiative centers on prisoner release and medical assistance, reinforcing the role of private sector philanthropy in supporting social welfare priorities across the country.
Difficulties meeting venture capitalists company This often leads to “outside the box” thinking, but one startup recently raised the bar for creative promotion by delivering a giant custom-printed cake to the offices of Better Tomorrow Ventures. The co-founder of the fintech-focused early-stage venture capital firm posted a photo of a giant cake that doubled as a fundraising platform.
The venture capital firm’s co-founder shared a picture of the cake on X. (X/@pitdesi)
“Someone just came over and delivered a giant cake to our office as a promotion for their company,” co-founder Sheel Mohnot wrote on Twitter, adding, “This is definitely a way to attract attention! Who wants some cake?”
He shared a photo cakehave eaten a little. Monote later replied that he couldn’t resist eating a piece of cake before clicking the picture.
What does the picture show?
The image shows a large rectangular cake in a cardboard delivery box. The edges of the cake are decorated with light blue icing dollops and “Seed Memo” is printed on its top surface.
The memo, which aims to raise $5 million, is broken into specialized sections detailing a startup’s business plan. It’s divided into sections like “What we’re building”, “How it works”, “What’s it for”, “Traction”, “Going to market” and finally the “Raising” section.
What is social media saying?
Someone asked, “Hand delivered or DoorDash?” Monote responded, “Hand delivered! I wasn’t in the office when it arrived, though.” When asked if the cake was good, the co-founder said, “Very good.”
Another commented: “This is a bold move, but cake always makes a meeting better.” A third added, “Yummy pitch.” A fourth wrote: “This is a very creative way to market the company. I think cake might work.”
New Delhi: A Pawan Hans helicopter carrying seven people, including two pilots, crashed into the sea near Mayabend in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on Tuesday morning.The helicopter took off from Sri Vijaya Puram around 8.45 am and crashed into the sea near Mayabunder around 9.30 am. “Preliminary investigation revealed that there were some technical obstacles and the pilot made an emergency landing at sea,” PTI quoted a senior Civil Aviation Authority official as saying.Passengers on board included three men, a woman, a child and two pilots. The rescued passengers – Rajita Devi and her babies Kamal Ch. Das, Sipra Saha and Nambi Amma have been admitted to Dr. RP Hospital in Mayabunder where they are under observation and treatment. Local authorities said the pilot was also safe.Pawan Hans spokesperson said: “A Pawan Hans helicopter experienced a brief landing incident near Mayabunder in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands around 9.30 am today. The helicopter took off from Port Blair with two crew members and five passengers on board. All were rescued and are safe. No injuries were reported.”“All necessary safety protocols were followed and authorities ensured the well-being of the crew and passengers,” the spokesperson was quoted as adding by ANI.Authorities are assessing the situation and awaiting further details on the cause and circumstances of the incident.
