Latest news with #Goel
Time of India
12 hours ago
- Business
- Time of India
Flying taxis in UAE can now use existing helipads together with helicopters
Flying taxis in the UAE are now allowed to use over 70 existing helipads in the city for takeoff and landing, eliminating the need for new infrastructure/ Photo: pixabay In a major leap toward integrating flying taxis into daily transportation, the UAE's General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has issued a new regulatory framework that allows electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing aircraft (eVTOLs) and conventional helicopters to operate interchangeably on existing helipads. This move is designed to fast-track the development and adoption of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) solutions across the country. According to a statement sent by GCAA to local news outlet Khaleej Times on Wednesday, 'This innovative regulatory framework represents a significant leap in integrating Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) solutions into existing aviation systems. It offers a cost-effective model for infrastructure development, accelerates operational readiness, and aligns with the UAE government's directives to implement high-efficiency, non-bureaucratic solutions across various sectors. ' The framework essentially means that flying taxis can now take off and land at existing helipads, removing the need to construct entirely new infrastructure for these futuristic aircraft. Key Voices: Vision, Readiness, and Strategic Use This decision follows recent successful test flights that demonstrate both technological readiness and regulatory alignment. Last month, Abu Dhabi conducted a test flight of an autonomous flying taxi , which took off from the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal helipad and flew above Abu Dhabi Marina. In a prior interview with Khaleej Times, Nikhil Goel, Chief Commercial Officer at Archer Aviation, the company developing the 'Midnight' flying taxi, expressed strong support for leveraging current infrastructure: 'There are more than 70 helipads in Abu Dhabi. There is a great opportunity – and, personally, I think – we don't need to build any new infrastructure to make this work. We plan to leverage the existing helipads, then add electrification to those facilities so that we can go launch quickly and scale up rapidly with minimal capital,' Goel said. Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the GCAA, said on Wednesday: '(The) regulatory framework does not merely enable new technology; it redefines how aviation evolves. It reflects our commitment to innovation in developing a supportive ecosystem for the growth of this vital sector and a future where advanced air mobility is seamlessly integrated into our national infrastructure.' He further elaborated on the dual-use approach: 'By enabling dual-use between conventional helicopter pads and electric vertical takeoff and landing pads, this initiative helps accelerate implementation timelines, optimises infrastructure utilisation, and cements the UAE's position as a leader in fostering an integrated ecosystem supporting the future of aviation.' Dubai's First Flying Taxi Test Flight Just this week, Dubai marked a key milestone in urban mobility with the first test flight of a flying taxi developed by Joby Aviation. The test took place at Joby's test facility at the Dubai Jetman Helipad in Margham, located along the Dubai–Al Ain Road. The city is now preparing for a commercial rollout by the first half of 2026, aiming to provide residents and visitors a premium air mobility service. Speaking about the potential, Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), previously highlighted the time-saving advantage of these vehicles: "A journey from Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah, for example, is expected to take just 12 minutes, compared to approximately 45 minutes by car."
Time of India
19 hours ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Haryana shocker: No entry over shorts, XEN renders Ambala club power-less; minister fumes, suspension order issued
CHANDIGARH: The retaliatory act of snapping power supply to a prestigious Ambala club after he was denied entry over inappropriate attire, proved costly for an executive engineer (XEN). Haryana power minister Anil Vij on Tuesday recommended his suspension after getting a complaint about his "unruly behaviour". The officer, Harish Goel, is currently posted as XEN, Uttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam (UHBVN), Yamunanagar. Goel was reportedly not allowed to enter the club on Monday evening for coming in shorts, which is a violation of the club's regulation and dress code. As per the complaint sent on Tuesday by the chairman of Central Phoenix Club, Ambala Cantonment, the officer not only ordered cutting of power supply, but thereafter called the manager, Balinder Singh, and asked him, "Kya baat hai, tumhari light chali gayee or generator chal raha hai, kaisa lag raha hai?" (Wow, there is no power at your place, and the generator is running. How does it feel?) It was alleged in the complaint that Goel displayed "unruly behaviour", and in an apparent act of retaliation, deliberately got the "electricity supply to the club disconnected", at a time when around 50 families were having dinner there. The letter from the club's chairman requested the state minister to act against the executive engineer. Taking cognisance of the club's complaint, the power minister referred the matter to the additional chief secretary (energy) Haryana, recommending the XEN's suspension and seeking his explanation regarding his conduct. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Doctor's Day 2025 , messages and quotes!
Indian Express
19 hours ago
- Health
- Indian Express
Podcaster claims the Hemoglobin A1C test to measure blood sugar levels can help detect cancer risk: ‘It's one of the most important…'; experts react
Is there a link between the Hemoglobin A1C blood test, which measures blood sugar levels, and the identification of cancer risk? Podcaster Bisma Lalji, who is battling stage 4 breast cancer, recently claimed that high blood sugar doesn't just impact diabetes risk, 'It also fuels inflammation, disrupts hormone balance, and creates an internal environment where cancer can grow and thrive.' In an Instagram post, she added that the A1C test, which measures your average blood sugar levels over the past ~3 months, is 'one of the most important, especially when it comes to cancer.' 'Cancer cells literally feed off glucose,' Lalji, who hosts The Other C Word podcast, continued. Sharing that glucose management is now a core part of her healing plan, she wrote: 'I was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer at 35, and since then, I've adopted the metabolic approach to cancer-focused on stabilising blood sugar, reducing insulin spikes, and supporting my mitochondria'. She also mentioned that she follows a Ketogenic diet, practices intermittent fasting, and regularly tracks her glucose, 'Not for weight loss—but to starve cancer, reduce inflammation, and protect my body. Whether you have cancer or not, your A1C matters. You should be getting it checked at least every 3 months if you're working on improving your metabolic health—or, at minimum, once a year as part of your annual labs. Don't assume your doctor is already checking it. You have to ask,' stressed Lalji. Before answering the question, let's understand the tests generally carried out to gauge cancer risk. Dr Neeraj Goel, director, oncology services, GI Oncology, GI & HPB Surgery at the CK Birla Hospital®, Delhi, said that it's essential to consider a combination of factors rather than relying on a single test. 'Cancer risk is influenced by personal medical history, such as previous cancer diagnoses or pre-existing conditions like ulcerative colitis, which may elevate the likelihood of certain cancers. Family medical history also plays a significant role—having a close relative with cancer can increase your risk, especially if inherited genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2 are involved, which are known to significantly raise the chances of breast, ovarian, and some other cancers,' said Dr Goel. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, poor diet (particularly one high in processed meats and saturated fats and low in fruits and vegetables), physical inactivity, and obesity are well-established contributors to increased cancer risk. 'In addition, environmental exposures—including ultraviolet (UV) radiation, ionising radiation, and certain chemical exposures—can also elevate the risk,' said Dr Goel. Dr Jyoti Anand, senior consultant in medical oncology at Fortis Hospital, Noida, added that several types of tests can help gauge an individual's risk of developing cancer. These include genetic tests, blood tests, and imaging scans. Genetic testing is a valuable tool for individuals with a strong family history of cancer. According to Dr Goel, it can identify inherited mutations that may predispose someone to specific types of cancer. 'Alongside this, genetic counselling is important to help individuals understand their results and make informed decisions about preventive measures,' said Dr Goel. Risk assessment tools exist, such as the Gail model for estimating breast cancer risk and other models that consider age, family history, and personal health factors to estimate the likelihood of developing different cancers. Regular screening and early detection are among the most effective approaches to managing cancer risk. 'Screening tests such as mammograms, colonoscopies, Pap smears, and low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals can help detect cancer at an early, more treatable stage, significantly improving outcomes and survival rates,' said Dr Goel. Dr Jyoti said the type of test recommended depends on an individual's personal risk factors, family medical history, and the presence of any symptoms or clinical findings. 'A doctor will guide you on the appropriate tests based on a comprehensive risk assessment. ' So, is HbA1c a reliable test? Dr Goel clarified that HbA1c, a blood test commonly used to assess long-term blood sugar control in individuals with diabetes, is not a test to detect or indicate cancer. 'While some studies have suggested a potential link between high HbA1c levels and increased cancer risk, no direct or definitive association has been established. Therefore, it should not be used as a cancer risk assessment tool. More research is needed in this area to draw firm conclusions,' said Dr Goel. However, if there are warning signs, consulting doctors may order blood tests like tumor markers or a Complete Blood Count (CBC). Dr Prashant Chandra, oncosurgeon, TGH Oncolife Cancer Centre, Pune, said that these tests need to be interpreted by an expert oncologist as tumour markers may remain normal in cancer patients and may be elevated in normal individuals. A post shared by Bisma Lalji | The Other C Word Podcast (@bismalalji) 'So don't panic with any reports, stay vigilant regarding your health, and know your personal and family history. Doing so can guide you on which tests are right for you. Remember to take any test advised by the doctor without any delay. Stick to the guidelines given by the doctor when it comes to treatment,' said Dr Chandra. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
Telangana factory blast: Forensics races against time to identify victims; teams working 24x7
HYDERABAD: With most victims charred beyond recognition in the devastating explosion at the Sigachi factory, the Telangana Forensic Science Laboratory (TGFSL) has taken on the crucial task of identifying the deceased through DNA profiling. A team of around 10 forensic experts is working round-the-clock to match DNA samples of the victims with those of their relatives. So far, 50 sets of samples have reached TGFSL-collected from both the remains and family members. "Our teams are working 24x7. Whatever samples we are receiving, we are processing immediately. In cases where we have both the victims' and family members' samples, identification will be faster. The first set of results is expected within 24 hours," said TGFSL director Shikha Goel. You Can Also Check: Hyderabad AQI | Weather in Hyderabad | Bank Holidays in Hyderabad | Public Holidays in Hyderabad However, she said delays may occur in cases where family members, especially those from outside Telangana, are yet to submit their samples. "We are still awaiting DNA samples from some families. The timeline will depend on how quickly those are made available." Despite the challenges, Goel confirmed that the lab has sufficient materials and equipment to conduct DNA fingerprinting tests for all victims. The first identifications are expected by Wednesday evening. Despite the extreme condition of the remains, TGFSL experts said DNA-based identification is progressing swiftly and with scientific precision. Sangareddy district superintendent of police Paritosh Pankaj told TOI, "We have sent the samples to TGFSL. So far, 36 deaths have been confirmed. Eleven bodies have been identified, while 25 remain unidentified. We are still tracing more remains." The scale of burns and disfigurement has rendered standard identification methods ineffective, making forensic DNA testing the only reliable route. TGFSL is drawing from its experience in handling mass fatality cases. In the 2013 bus tragedy in Mahbubnagar, where 45 people perished in a fire, then AP FSL successfully used DNA profiling to identify victims. Hyderabad is also home to the Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD), a national institute with an extensive history of working on complex disaster identifications. In 2014, CDFD played a key role in identifying 22 charred bodies from the Mangaluru air crash. The centre has contributed to high-profile cases, including identification of victims in Uttarakhand flash floods and missing persons in Punjab. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Doctor's Day 2025 , messages and quotes!
Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
Operation Milap: 168 missing persons reunited with their families in Southwest Delhi
New Delhi: Around 168 missing persons, including 53 children, have been reunited with their families in southwest district as part of 'Operation Milap'—an ongoing initiative by Delhi Police . According to police, this involved focused efforts through June, as part of a broader campaign aimed at locating and reuniting missing persons, particularly vulnerable minors, with their loved ones. DCP (southwest) Amit Goel said, "As a part of the extensive search plan, the local police launched multiple operations upon receiving reports of any missing or kidnapped individuals. Through technical surveillance and local intelligence, police tracked down the individuals." You Can Also Check: Delhi AQI | Weather in Delhi | Bank Holidays in Delhi | Public Holidays in Delhi "Their movements were also traced through inquiries with bus drivers, conductors and vendors. Records of nearby police stations and hospitals also played a crucial role in the search operations," DCP Goel added. Kapashera police led the effort, reuniting 33 individuals with their families, followed by Sagarpur police with 30 and Palam Village police with 24. Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (AHTU) successfully reunited 11 children, while Kapashera police reunited the highest number of adults, 28, with their families. According to police, the total number of reunited missing persons in the district for the year 2025 so far is 521, which includes 149 children and 372 adults. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Doctor's Day 2025 , messages and quotes!
