‘Benefits India’: Russian expert backs RD-93 engines sale to Pakistan

**‘Benefits India’: Russian Expert Backs RD-93 Engines Sale to Pakistan**

*By Snehil Singh | October 6, 2025, 3:45 PM*

A recent report about Russia supplying RD-93 engines to Pakistan for its JF-17 aircraft has sparked intense debate. However, a Russian defense expert has come forward defending the move, suggesting it could actually benefit India in unexpected ways.

**Strategic Insight from Russia**

Pyotr Topychkanov, head of the Section on New Challenges in South and Southeast Asia at Moscow’s Primakov Institute, shed light on the potential strategic implications of the deal. According to him, if the sale is indeed going ahead, it reveals an important dynamic — China and Pakistan remain dependent on Russian technology despite efforts to diversify.

Topychkanov explained, “Firstly, it shows that China and Pakistan haven’t yet managed to replace the Russian-origin engine. Secondly, the new aircraft will be familiar and predictable to India, especially since they share the same engine. India also observed the JF-17’s operational use during the May 2025 crisis (Operation Sindoor).”

This familiarity could give India a tactical advantage by making the behavior and performance of Pakistan’s JF-17 fleet more predictable in combat scenarios.

**Denial from Another Russian Source**

Despite Topychkanov’s comments, a senior Russian insider has denied any official confirmation of the RD-93 engine supply to Pakistan. Speaking exclusively to WION, the source called the rumors “illogical” and suggested they might be attempts to disrupt growing ties between Russia and India, especially in light of upcoming high-level engagements.

**Political Fallout in India**

The alleged deal has also ignited political controversy domestically. The Indian National Congress party has strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government for failing to prevent Russia from supporting Pakistan militarily.

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh questioned the logic behind Russia supplying advanced engines to Pakistan while India continues to procure Russian defense systems like the S-400 missile system and negotiates for Su-57 stealth fighters.

**BJP’s Defense of the Government**

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has dismissed the allegations as baseless and part of a “reckless information warfare” campaign. Amit Malviya, BJP’s IT cell head, referenced Russia’s clarification on the matter and accused Ramesh of spreading misinformation based on reports from sources with a known pro-Pakistan bias.

**Conclusion**

While the controversy continues, the discourse highlights the complex interplay of defense diplomacy and strategic calculations in South Asia. Whether or not the RD-93 engines are being supplied to Pakistan, the debate underscores the sensitivity surrounding military technology transfers and the geopolitical ramifications for the region.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/russian-expert-defends-rd-93-sale-to-pakistan/story

‘Benefits India’: Russian expert backs RD-93 engines sale to Pakistan

**‘Benefits India’: Russian Expert Supports Reported Sale of RD-93 Engines to Pakistan**

*By Snehil Singh | Oct 06, 2025, 3:45 PM*

A recent report about Russia potentially supplying RD-93 engines to Pakistan for its JF-17 fighter aircraft has sparked significant discussion. While the news has caused controversy in India, a Russian defense expert asserts that such a deal could actually offer strategic benefits to India.

**Russian Expert Highlights Strategic Advantage**

Pyotr Topychkanov, head of the Section on New Challenges in South and Southeast Asia at Moscow’s Primakov Institute, defended the reported sale. He emphasized that if true, the deal underscores China and Pakistan’s continued dependence on Russian technology.

Topychkanov explained that this dependence works in India’s favor by making the JF-17 aircraft more predictable. “Firstly, it shows that China and Pakistan haven’t yet managed to replace the Russian-origin engine. Secondly, the new aircraft will be familiar and predictable to India, especially since they share the same engine and India observed the JF-17’s operational use during the May 2025 crisis (Operation Sindoor),” he stated.

**Contradictory Reports on Engine Sale**

Despite the expert’s comments, a senior Russian official denied any confirmation of the RD-93 engine supply deal to Pakistan. In a conversation with WION, the insider labeled the rumors as illogical, especially for those closely monitoring major defense deals between Russia and India. The source suggested that these reports might be driven by ulterior motives aimed at undermining promising cooperation ahead of high-level diplomatic contacts.

**Political Fallout in India**

The alleged deal has ignited political controversy within India. The opposition Congress party has criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government for failing to prevent the sale of advanced RD-93 engines to Pakistan. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh questioned why Russia would continue offering military support to Pakistan while India is actively procuring sophisticated defense equipment like the S-400 missile systems and negotiating for the Su-57 stealth fighters from Moscow.

In response, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) defended the government, dismissing the reports as “reckless information warfare.” BJP IT-cell head Amit Malviya cited Russia’s clarification on the matter and accused Congress leaders of making baseless accusations based on sources known for pro-Pakistan propaganda.

This developing story highlights the complex interplay of defense diplomacy, strategic interests, and political narratives shaping India-Russia-Pakistan relations. Further official updates are awaited to clarify the situation.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/russian-expert-defends-rd-93-sale-to-pakistan/story

Bihar election to be held on November 6 and 11

**Bihar Assembly Elections Scheduled for November 6 and 11**

*By Chanshimla Varah | October 6, 2025, 4:36 PM*

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced that the Bihar Assembly elections will be conducted in two phases on November 6 and November 11, 2025. The results are expected to be declared on November 14.

The current 243-member Bihar Assembly’s term concludes on November 22, making it mandatory to hold elections before that date. The election schedule aligns with political parties’ requests to hold polls after the Chhath Puja festival to boost voter turnout.

### Bypolls to be Held Alongside Second Phase

On November 11, alongside the second phase of the Bihar Assembly elections, eight Assembly bypolls will take place. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar confirmed that results for both the general elections and bypolls will be announced on November 14.

The bypolls will be held for the following seats:

– Budgam and Nagrota (Jammu and Kashmir)
– Anta (Rajasthan)
– Ghatsila (ST) (Jharkhand)
– Jubilee Hills (Telangana)
– Tarn Taran (Punjab)
– Dampa (ST) (Mizoram)
– Nuapada (Odisha)

### Political Dynamics: Major Contestants

The Bihar elections will largely be a contest between two major alliances:

– **National Democratic Alliance (NDA):** Led by incumbent Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, currently holding 131 seats.
– **Mahagathbandhan:** Led by Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), with the opposition bloc, including the Congress, holding 111 seats.

New entrant Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj party is also set to contest all 243 seats, marking its debut in Bihar’s political landscape.

### Election Commission’s Preparations and Voter Details

Ahead of the announcements, an ECI delegation led by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, visited Bihar to review poll preparations. They met representatives from 12 political parties, including prominent national parties like the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

On September 30, the ECI published the final electoral roll for Bihar, which lists 7.42 crore registered voters. This reflects a decrease of over 47 lakh voters since the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) started in June.

Out of the total electorate, 3.92 crore are male and 3.5 crore are female voters. Additionally, there are approximately 14 lakh first-time voters participating in these elections. Remarkably, around 14,000 voters are over the age of 100.

In a significant update, CEC Kumar announced that the new voter ID cards will feature color photographs of electors, replacing the earlier black and white images.

### Polling Arrangements

A total of 90,712 polling stations have been arranged across Bihar to facilitate smooth and accessible voting for all electors.

Stay tuned for further updates as Bihar gears up for this crucial electoral exercise.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/politics/bihar-election-dates-announced/story

How to use nutritional yeast in cooking

**How to Use Nutritional Yeast in Cooking**
*By Simran Jeet | Oct 06, 2025, 05:13 PM*

Nutritional yeast is a versatile ingredient that can add a savory, cheesy flavor to your breakfast dishes. Packed with vitamins and minerals, it’s an excellent addition to your morning routine. Here are five creative ways to use nutritional yeast in your breakfast, making it both nutritious and delicious. These ideas are simple, easy to prepare, and ensure you start your day on a healthy note.

### 1. Savory Oatmeal with Nutritional Yeast
Transform your regular oatmeal into a savory delight by adding nutritional yeast. Simply cook oats as usual, then stir in a tablespoon of nutritional yeast along with some salt, pepper, and chopped vegetables like spinach or tomatoes. This dish not only boosts flavor but also adds protein and B vitamins to your meal.

### 2. Nutritional Yeast Avocado Toast
Give your avocado toast a flavorful twist with nutritional yeast. Mash ripe avocados on whole-grain bread and sprinkle generously with nutritional yeast. Add toppings like sliced radishes or cucumber for extra crunch. This combination provides healthy fats from the avocado and essential nutrients from the nutritional yeast.

### 3. Breakfast Smoothie Boost
Incorporate nutritional yeast into your morning smoothie for an extra nutrient boost. Blend together bananas, spinach, almond milk, and a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a creamy smoothie that packs a punch of vitamins and minerals. The subtle nutty flavor complements the sweetness of the fruits without overpowering them.

### 4. Veggie-Packed Breakfast Scramble
Create a hearty breakfast scramble by sautéing vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms in olive oil. Add tofu or chickpeas for protein and mix in two tablespoons of nutritional yeast before serving. This dish mimics traditional scrambled eggs while offering plant-based nutrition.

### 5. Cheesy Pancakes with Nutritional Yeast
For an innovative twist on pancakes, try adding nutritional yeast to the batter. Mix flour, baking powder, milk (or a plant-based alternative), and one tablespoon of nutritional yeast until smooth. Cook as usual on a skillet until golden brown on both sides. Serve with fresh fruit or maple syrup for added sweetness without compromising health benefits.

Incorporating nutritional yeast into your breakfast is an easy way to boost flavor and nutrition. Give these ideas a try and enjoy a delicious, healthful start to your day!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/start-your-day-with-these-dishes-featuring-nutritional-yeast/story

Louis CK defends Saudi Arabia gig: ‘Felt like good opportunity’

**Louis CK Defends Saudi Arabia Gig: ‘Felt Like Good Opportunity’**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | October 6, 2025, 2:05 PM*

Emmy-winning comedian Louis CK has addressed the controversy surrounding his decision to perform at the Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia. The event, which he co-headlined alongside British comedian Jimmy Carr, has faced criticism from fellow comedians for allegedly whitewashing a regime notorious for human rights abuses.

**Unexpected Audience Response**

On *Real Time With Bill Maher*, CK shared that many comedians were “really surprised” by the audience’s reaction in Riyadh. He highlighted that a Jewish lesbian comedian, Jessica Kirson, received a standing ovation during the festival. Kirson, who also performed at the event, later expressed “sincere regret” for her participation.

“There’s stuff going on that’s unexpected in this thing,” CK said. “People have been playing Saudi Arabia for years. Comedians have been going and playing Arab countries.”

**Decision-Making and Performance Guidelines**

CK revealed that organizers informed him of only two restrictions for his performance: to avoid jokes about “their religion and their government.” He noted that he didn’t have any material targeting those topics.

“When I heard it’s opening, I thought, that’s awfully interesting. That just feels like a good opportunity. And I just feel like comedy is a great way to get in and start talking,” CK explained.

**Criticism from Fellow Comedians**

Several comedians, including Marc Maron, Atsuko Okatsuka, and David Cross, have strongly criticized performers who have previously spoken out against cancel culture and censorship but chose to participate in the Riyadh festival.

David Cross published a scathing statement on his website, explicitly calling out Louis CK by name. “Clearly you guys don’t give a shit about what the rest of us think, but how can any of us take any of you seriously ever again?” he wrote.

**Defenses from Performers**

Jessica Kirson requested assurances that she could discuss her identity as a lesbian on stage before agreeing to perform. Despite her initial participation, she later expressed “sincere regret” about performing under the Saudi government’s auspices.

Comedian Burr, who performed at the festival on September 26, defended his decision, describing it as “a mind-blowing experience.” He emphasized the value of experiencing that part of the world firsthand.

Other notable comedians such as Dave Chappelle, Kevin Hart, Pete Davidson, and Aziz Ansari also participated in the festival, adding to the diversity of voices present.

The Riyadh Comedy Festival continues to spark debate about the intersection of entertainment, cultural exchange, and human rights concerns in politically sensitive regions.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/louis-ck-defends-performance-at-riyadh-comedy-festival/story

Louis CK defends Saudi Arabia gig: ‘Felt like good opportunity’

**Louis CK Defends Saudi Arabia Gig: ‘Felt Like Good Opportunity’**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | Oct 06, 2025*

Emmy-winning comedian Louis CK has come forward to defend his decision to perform at the Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia, an event he co-headlined alongside British comedian Jimmy Carr. The festival has sparked controversy, with critics accusing participating comedians of whitewashing a regime known for serious human rights abuses.

Speaking on *Real Time with Bill Maher*, Louis CK revealed that many of his fellow comedians were “really surprised” by the audience’s response in Riyadh.

### Audience Response

CK highlighted an unexpected positive moment at the festival: a Jewish lesbian comedian, Jessica Kirson, received a standing ovation during her set. Kirson has since expressed “sincere regret” for her participation in the event. CK remarked, “So, there’s stuff going on that’s unexpected in this thing. People have been playing Saudi Arabia for years. Comedians have been going and playing Arab countries.”

### Decision-Making and Restrictions

Louis CK shared that he was informed of only two restrictions imposed on his performance — “Their religion and their government.” He admitted that he did not have jokes addressing these topics, which influenced his decision. “When I heard it’s opening, I thought, that’s awfully interesting. That just feels like a good opportunity. And I just feel like comedy is a great way to get in and start talking,” CK explained.

### Backlash from Fellow Comedians

Several comedians, including Marc Maron, Atsuko Okatsuka, and David Cross, have criticized those who perform at the Riyadh festival, especially when some of these performers have previously spoken out against cancel culture and censorship. David Cross published a scathing statement on his website, calling out Louis CK by name: “Clearly you guys don’t give a shit about what the rest of us think, but how can any of us take any of you seriously ever again?”

### Responses from Other Performers

Jessica Kirson, who performed at the festival on September 29, requested and received a guarantee to speak about her identity as a lesbian on stage. Despite this, she later expressed regret for participating under the Saudi government’s auspices.

Comedian Bill Burr, who also performed in Riyadh on September 26, defended his decision, describing the experience as “mind-blowing” and valuing the opportunity to explore that part of the world.

Other notable comedians at the festival included Dave Chappelle, Kevin Hart, Pete Davidson, and Aziz Ansari.

The Riyadh Comedy Festival continues to spark debate about the balance between artistic freedom and the ethical implications of performing in countries with controversial human rights records.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/louis-ck-defends-performance-at-riyadh-comedy-festival/story

Mount Everest blizzard leaves over 200 climbers stranded, 350 rescued

Over 200 hikers have been stranded after a blizzard struck the Tibetan slopes of Mount Everest, while around 350 others were safely escorted by villagers and rescue teams.

The conditions for those trapped at the campsites worsened on Sunday as snowfall continued unabated since Friday. Hundreds of local villagers and rescue personnel rushed essential supplies to the affected area.

According to a state-run CCTV report quoted by the BBC on Monday, more than 200 hikers remain trapped in the blizzard. Rescue teams have successfully guided approximately 350 climbers to safety.

Earlier reports indicated that over 1,000 holiday hikers were stranded in the slopes of Mount Everest, located in Karma Valley on the Chinese side of the mountain. Videos and eyewitness accounts shared on social media by the stranded climbers described thunder, strong winds, and continuous snowfall burying the tracks leading to the region on Sunday.

Chinese mainstream media has yet to provide detailed coverage of the blizzard, and only limited information is currently available. It is important to note that China is in the midst of an eight-day holiday starting October 1 to celebrate National Day and the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Mount Everest, known as Mt. Qomolangma in China, is the world’s highest peak, standing at over 8,849 meters.

In a related weather event, Typhoon Matmo, the 21st named storm of the 2025 Pacific typhoon season, made landfall along the eastern coast of Xuwen County, Zhanjiang City in southern China’s Guangdong Province on Sunday.

Local governments evacuated approximately 347,000 people from Guangdong and Hainan provinces in anticipation of the typhoon, which brought maximum wind speeds of 151 km/h.

*This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for the dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or accuracy of the text. Mid-day management and mid-day.com reserve the sole right to alter, delete, or remove (without notice) the content at their absolute discretion for any reason.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/over-200-climbers-stranded-after-blizzard-on-tibetan-slopes-of-mount-everest-350-rescued-23597421

Add these seeds to your daily diet

By Anujj Trehaan | Oct 06, 2025 | 01:35 PM

**What’s the story?**

Seeds are tiny powerhouses of nutrition, making them an essential part of a healthy diet. They are packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Adding seeds to your daily meals can be an easy way to boost your nutrient intake without making drastic changes to your diet.

Here are five must-try seeds that can significantly enhance your daily nutrition.

### 1. Chia Seeds: The Fiber Powerhouse

Chia seeds are famous for their high fiber content, which helps with digestion and keeps blood sugar levels stable. These tiny black seeds are also loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health. Just two tablespoons of chia seeds give you 10 grams of fiber—more than one-third of the daily recommended intake for adults.

### 2. Flaxseeds: Rich in Omega-3s

Flaxseeds are an amazing source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for brain and heart health. They also provide lignans, which have antioxidant properties. To reap the maximum benefits, flaxseeds should be ground before consumption, as whole flaxseeds may pass through the digestive system undigested. Two tablespoons of ground flaxseeds provide about four grams of protein and eight grams of fiber.

### 3. Pumpkin Seeds: Nutrient-Dense Snack

Pumpkin seeds make for an excellent snack option as they are loaded with magnesium, zinc, and iron. These nutrients are essential for bone health, immune function, and energy production. Pumpkin seeds are also a good source of antioxidants that help reduce inflammation in the body. A quarter-cup serving gives you around 14 grams of protein and more than 40% of the daily recommended magnesium intake.

### 4. Sunflower Seeds: Vitamin E Boost

Sunflower seeds are packed with vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects cells from damage by free radicals. They also provide healthy fats that promote cardiovascular health when consumed as part of a balanced diet. A quarter-cup serving offers about six grams of protein along with significant amounts of copper and selenium.

### 5. Sesame Seeds: Calcium Source

Sesame seeds are an excellent source of calcium, making them perfect for those who want to increase their intake without dairy products. These tiny white or black seeds also contain sesamin, which may help lower cholesterol levels naturally over time when consumed regularly as part of a balanced diet plan. One tablespoon provides approximately 88 milligrams (about 9% of the RDI) of calcium, along with other essential nutrients like iron and magnesium.

Incorporating these seeds into your daily meals—whether by sprinkling them on salads, blending into smoothies, or enjoying them as snacks—can be a simple and effective way to enrich your diet with vital nutrients.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/must-try-seeds-for-daily-nutrition/story

Louis CK defends Saudi Arabia gig: ‘Felt like good opportunity’

**Louis CK Defends Saudi Arabia Gig: ‘Felt Like Good Opportunity’**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | October 6, 2025, 2:05 PM*

Emmy-winning comedian Louis CK has defended his decision to perform at the Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia, an event he is co-headlining with British comedian Jimmy Carr. The festival has faced criticism from fellow comedians who accuse it of whitewashing a regime known for human rights abuses.

### Audience Response Surprises Comedians

On *Real Time With Bill Maher*, CK revealed that other comedians were “really surprised” by the positive response from the Riyadh audience. He highlighted that a Jewish lesbian comedian, Jessica Kirson, received a standing ovation during the festival. Kirson has since expressed “sincere regret” for her participation.

“There’s stuff going on that’s unexpected in this thing,” CK said. “People have been playing Saudi Arabia for years. Comedians have been going and playing Arab countries.”

### Restrictions and Decision-Making

Louis CK disclosed that he was informed of only two restrictions for his performance: no jokes about the country’s religion and government. He admitted that he does not have material on these subjects.

“When I heard it’s opening, I thought, that’s awfully interesting. That just feels like a good opportunity. And I just feel like comedy is a great way to get in and start talking,” CK explained.

### Criticism from Fellow Comedians

Several comedians, including Marc Maron, Atsuko Okatsuka, and David Cross, have slammed peers who agreed to perform in Riyadh while previously voicing concerns about cancel culture and censorship. David Cross published a scathing statement on his website directly calling out Louis CK.

“Clearly you guys don’t give a shit about what the rest of us think, but how can any of us take any of you seriously ever again?” Cross wrote.

### Defenses from Performers

Jessica Kirson, who performed on September 29, had requested assurance that she could discuss being a lesbian on stage. Nonetheless, she later expressed regret for participating under the Saudi government’s auspices.

Comedian Bill Burr, who performed on September 26, described his experience as “mind-blowing” and expressed enthusiasm for getting to experience that part of the world.

Other big names at the festival included Dave Chappelle, Kevin Hart, Pete Davidson, and Aziz Ansari, all of whom have also faced public scrutiny for their participation.

The Riyadh Comedy Festival remains a controversial event, raising ongoing debates about the role of art and entertainment in regimes with problematic human rights records.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/louis-ck-defends-performance-at-riyadh-comedy-festival/story

5 inspiring career lessons from Mindy Kaling’s creative journey

**5 Inspiring Career Lessons from Mindy Kaling’s Creative Journey**
*By Vinita Jain | Oct 06, 2025, 10:22 AM*

Mindy Kaling’s journey from a writer to a multi-faceted creator is nothing short of inspiring. Not only has she made a mark as an actor, but also as a producer and director. Her career transformation offers valuable insights into the world of creativity and innovation. Here are five lessons from Kaling’s career that can guide aspiring creators looking to make their mark in the industry.

### 1. Embrace Your Unique Voice

Kaling has always been unapologetically herself, and that’s what has made her stand out in Hollywood. By embracing her unique voice, she has been able to create content that resonates with many. This lesson teaches aspiring creators the importance of authenticity and staying true to oneself while crafting stories.

### 2. Diversify Your Skills

Kaling’s success can be attributed to her ability to wear multiple hats: writer, actor, producer, and director. By diversifying her skills, she has opened up a world of opportunities for herself. This lesson emphasizes the importance of learning different aspects of your craft to stay relevant and adaptable in a constantly changing industry.

### 3. Collaborate with Others

Collaboration has been key to Kaling’s success. Working with other talented individuals not only brings fresh perspectives but also enhances creativity. This lesson highlights the value of building a network and collaborating with others to bring out the best in your projects.

### 4. Stay Resilient in the Face of Challenges

Kaling’s journey was not without its fair share of challenges, but her resilience is what kept her going. She faced setbacks head-on and emerged stronger every time. This lesson serves as a reminder for aspiring creators that perseverance is key to overcoming obstacles on the path to success.

### 5. Focus on Storytelling

At the heart of Kaling’s work is her knack for storytelling. She knows how to weave compelling narratives that keep audiences engaged. This lesson underscores the importance of honing storytelling skills, as they are essential for connecting with audiences on a deeper level.

Mindy Kaling’s career is a testament to the power of authenticity, versatility, collaboration, resilience, and storytelling. Aspiring creators can draw inspiration from her journey and apply these lessons to carve their own paths in the creative industry.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/mindy-kaling-s-career-transformation-5-lessons/story