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Kuala Lumpur, June 2 (BNP): Malaysia on Monday began enforcing new regulations prohibiting children under the age of 16 from creating or maintaining social media accounts, marking a major step in the country’s effort to strengthen online safety for minors.

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Under the new rules, major platforms with at least eight million users in Malaysia — including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube — are required to implement age-verification systems and prevent underage users from opening accounts. Authorities said existing users identified as younger than 16 will be given a one-month period to download or transfer personal data, including photos and videos, before restrictions take effect.

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) said the age-verification mechanism for current users will be introduced in phases over the next six months. Companies that fail to comply with the regulations could face fines of up to 10 million ringgit (approximately $2.5 million).

The government said the move is aimed at shielding children from cyberbullying, harmful online content and addictive platform features that encourage excessive screen time. Officials clarified that the restrictions are not intended to cut children off from digital technology but to create safer online environments and hold platforms accountable for protecting younger users.

Malaysia joins a growing list of countries, including Australia, Brazil and Indonesia, that are imposing age-based restrictions on children’s social media access. Nations such as Britain, France, Spain, Denmark, Thailand and South Korea are also exploring similar regulatory measures.

However, the move has triggered mixed reactions among families and digital rights experts. Some parents welcomed the decision, arguing that children lack the emotional maturity to safely navigate social media and benefit more from offline activities and supervised screen time.

Others expressed concern that the restrictions may be too rigid and could push teenagers toward unregulated digital spaces. Critics also raised questions about privacy, warning that mandatory age verification may require sensitive personal information and increase risks related to data protection and surveillance.

Technology companies are yet to clarify how they will implement the regulations, while experts say the effectiveness of the law may depend on enforcement mechanisms and whether families can bypass restrictions through parental accounts or alternative access methods.

June 2 : The U.S. Green Building Council  launched the Sustainable Stadiums Interactive Map, a new tool that helps fans, media, venue operators and city leaders explore LEED- and TRUE-certified stadiums across North America alongside LEED-certified hotels, restaurants and other buildings located near participating venues. 

The map is designed to bring the sustainability story behind major sports and entertainment venues to life. It shows how some of the most visible community gathering places are saving energy, reducing waste, and improving health ultimately boosting operational efficiency and setting higher sustainability standards in their communities.

“Stadiums are more than places to watch a match or catch a ninth-inning rally,” said Rhiannon Jacobsen, managing director, U.S. Market Transformation & Development, USGBC. “They’re year-round civic landmarks hosting concerts, community events and major sporting moments—that often sit at the center of local transportation, economic development and tourism. As communities face hotter summers, rising utility costs and increasing expectations for responsible operations, stadiums have an outsized opportunity to demonstrate what good stewardship looks like at scale.”

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the world’s most widely used green building rating system. TRUE certification is a powerful tool for facilities aiming to meet zero waste goals.

A summer of events and a bigger story in host cities

This summer’s packed schedule of sports and live entertainment is also a reminder that sustainability isn’t confined to a single building; it’s a citywide story: how people travel, where they stay, what they eat, and how districts manage energy, water and materials. By pairing stadium locations with nearby LEED-certified hotels, restaurants and other buildings, the interactive map helps audiences see how high-performing venues can anchor broader, more sustainable neighborhoods.

The map also arrives during a season of international football across the U.S., Mexico and Canada. More than half of the stadiums hosting tournament matches have achieved LEED certification. 

“We are proud to have transformed a venue of this age, style, and complexity, so it remains energy efficient and environmentally friendly for fans who attend any of our events,” said Brandon Hamilton, vice president of stadium operations and facilities for the Kansas City Chiefs. “Through the LEED certification process, we estimate that GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium has reduced energy operational costs by 10%, water usage by 14%, and that we have quadrupled its diversion through implementation of onsite composting and onsite sorting of recyclables.”

The sustainability strategies behind these stadiums translate into real, trackable outcomes, including:

• Over 11,500 solar panels installed, generating 5,000+ MWh of renewable energy annually across host venues

• Over 100 million gallons of potable water saved annually across host venues, the equivalent of about 180 Olympic-sized swimming pools

• More than 5 million single-use plastics eliminated annually through sustainable food  and beverage programs across host venues

• Energy performance exceeding global benchmarks, with some venues projecting over $1 million in annual energy savings

• 99% waste diversion reported at 4 host venues

LEED O+M: upgrading existing venues for higher performance

Many of the projects featured on the map are existing stadiums that used LEED for Operations and Maintenance to achieve high performance. That approach focuses on how buildings operate day to day, helping operators reduce energy and water use, achieve cost savings, and improve indoor air quality and comfort, thereby enhancing the fan experience.

LEED for LEED Operations and Maintenance  for existing buildings provides a framework for fully operational, occupied buildings to improve sustainability, efficiency, and performance. It focuses on energy, water, waste, and indoor air quality rather than new construction. For high-profile venues that serve millions of visitors, independent verification brings credibility and transparency, supporting accountability to fans, partners and host communities.

“In Mexico, LEED certification is a powerful catalyst for transformation,” Bernardo Barona, director of growth and development, Latin America, Green Business Certification Inc. . “As the oldest football stadium in North America, Estadio Banorte demonstrates this with its LEED Platinum certification, converting a historic structure in Mexico City into a high-performing, sustainable stadium while honoring its cultural identity.”

“We are deeply proud to have breathed new life into a venue with such a rich history and grandeur, ensuring that every fan who visits us does so in an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly space,” said Alexandre Costa, CEO, Estadio Banorte. 

Spotlighting TRUE: a pathway to reduce waste, sustainably and support circularity

Many stadiums continue to implement sustainability strategies even after achieving LEED certification. This includes waste-reduction programs that encourage fans to use more sustainable containers and reduce overall waste. 

The Sustainable Stadiums Interactive Map also highlights venues that have achieved TRUE certification, which recognizes leadership in waste reduction and progress toward zero waste goals. For stadiums managing high volumes of packaging, food service materials and event-day waste, TRUE can help guide practical, measurable programs that keep valuable resources out of landfills and drive better purchasing and operations.

New Delhi, June 2 (BNP): The Income Tax Department has enabled online filing of ITR-2 for Assessment Year (AY) 2026–27 on the e-filing portal, allowing eligible taxpayers to begin submitting returns for income earned during Financial Year (FY) 2025–26. The deadline for filing ITR-2 for individual taxpayers remains July 31, 2026.

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ITR-2 is applicable to individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) who do not earn income from business or profession but have more complex income sources, including capital gains from stocks or mutual funds, rental income from multiple properties, foreign assets or overseas income, and income exceeding prescribed eligibility for simpler tax forms. Tax experts say taxpayers with capital market transactions or additional properties should carefully verify whether ITR-2 applies to them instead of ITR-1.

Experts have cautioned taxpayers against common filing mistakes that frequently trigger notices or delays in processing. Mismatches between income disclosures and records available in the Annual Information Statement (AIS), Form 26AS, bank account details, tax deductions, and capital gains reporting are among the most common reasons for scrutiny. Reviewing pre-filled information before submission is considered essential for error-free filing.

Missing the July 31 deadline may result in late filing fees of up to ₹5,000 and could impact a taxpayer’s ability to carry forward eligible capital losses for future tax adjustments. Tax professionals are advising individuals to gather relevant financial documents, reconcile statements, and complete filing well ahead of the deadline to avoid last-minute complications.

Monte Carlo race provides a powerful reminder of what makes this sport so special – Ben Sulayem

Dubai, UAE, June 2: H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, says a unique combination of attributes make this weekend’s FIA Formula 1 Louis Vuitton Grand Prix de Monaco one of the most prestigious and iconic events on the global motorsport calendar.

Ben Sulayem will be in attendance as Monte Carlo’s spectacular street circuit delivers another demanding test of driver skill, technical precision, and operational excellence.

Sunday’s race will mark the first European round of the season, underlining Monaco’s enduring importance as the FIA Formula One World Championship enters a new regulatory era.

FIA President Ben Sulayem, said: “The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the great jewels of world motorsport. It represents heritage, excellence, precision and passion, and continues to capture the imagination of fans across the world.

“As the Championship enters an important new chapter in 2026, Monaco provides a powerful reminder of what makes this sport so special: world-class drivers, cutting-edge engineering, committed teams, and the extraordinary work of officials, volunteers and organisers who make racing possible.”

Sharing his appreciation for the many people involved in making such an iconic event possible, Ben Sulayem said: “Every race weekend depends on the dedication of FIA officials, local organisers, volunteers, marshals, teams and partners.

“Monaco is one of the most complex events in world motorsport to deliver, and I want to thank everyone whose professionalism and commitment ensures it remains a benchmark for excellence.”

As The FIA Formula One World Championship continues to grow globally, the FIA remains focused on strengthening its long-term, ensuring world-class competition, advancing safety and sustainability, and supporting the continued development of motorsport at every level.

Tokyo, Japan, June 2: In Vietnam, transcosmos runs an internal program to spread sustainable values within the community. This year, the company is holding TCV E-Running Cup Season 3, under the message “Run for Young Future.” Continuing its journey, this season marks a meaningful transformation by focusing on educational support activities for underprivileged children in Vietnam.

■From a Green Journey to a Symbol of Internal Unity
After two successful seasons, TCV E-Running Cup has become not only a highly anticipated annual internal sports event, but also a symbol of solidarity and social responsibility among transcosmos employees in Vietnam. Over the past two years, hundreds of transcosmos employees in Vietnam have contributed to positive environmental impacts through charity running activities for tree planting:

– More than 30,000 kilometers completed by employees across both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
– 3,000 trees planted nationwide through the conversion of running achievements into environmental contributions.

These achievements reflect not only the perseverance and dedication of employees but also serve as a strong foundation for transcosmos to further expand its corporate social responsibility initiatives toward more meaningful human-centered values.

■TCV E-Running Cup 2026: Every Kilometer Becomes a Gift of Knowledge
Entering its 3rd season, transcosmos has chosen education as the core focus of its 2026 community journey in Vietnam. With the message “Run for Young Future,” every kilometer completed during the event will be converted by the transcosmos Vietnam Labor Union into contributions to the “Book Fund for Underprivileged Children.”

The fund will support textbooks, notebooks, and educational books that help nurture knowledge and personal development for children before the new academic year begins. Through this initiative, the company aims to create greater educational opportunities for children while spreading the spirit of sharing and compassion throughout the community.

Program Information
Program Name: TCV E-Running Cup 2026
Message: “Run for Young Future”
Format: Online running/walking program for all transcosmos employees in Vietnam
Registration & Details: TCV E-Running Cup 2026 (https://app.irace.vn/chay-vi-tuong-lai-em?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

■Launching a Meaningful Journey with Strong Support from TCVers
On May 14, the online opening ceremony of TCV E-Running Cup 2026 was successfully held with enthusiastic participation from transcosmos employees in Vietnam. Immediately after the online registration portal opened, many employees quickly joined the race and began recording their first achievements through the program’s application platform. Beyond promoting physical wellness, this year’s running event also carries the meaningful mission of connecting the community through every individual step.

With unity and perseverance, transcosmos hopes to transform every running route into a bridge of knowledge, contributing to better learning opportunities for underprivileged children.

●Employees participating in past tree-planting activities

* transcosmos is a trademark or registered trademark of transcosmos inc. in Japan and other countries.
* Other company names and product or service names used here are trademarks or registered trademarks of respective companies.

Kolkata, June 02: The much-awaited jersey launch ceremony of the Murshidabad Kings & Kueens was held in grand style today at Hashtag, Kolkata. The evening witnessed an enthusiastic gathering of players, team management, sponsors, and supporters, making it a memorable evening ahead of the new season.

The glamorous evening witnessed the official unveiling of the team’s new jersey ahead of Season 3 of the Bengal Pro T20 League. Adding glamour to the occasion, renowned actress Ms. Darshana Banik graced the event and interacted with the players and guests, making the evening even more memorable. The newly launched jersey reflects the spirit, passion, and pride of Murshidabad Kings & Kueens as the franchise gears up for an exciting season ahead.

Speaking after the successful completion of the event, Mr. Pratiik Jalan, Co-owner of Murshidabad Kings & Kueens, said, “The jersey represents the passion, pride, and fighting spirit of Murshidabad Kings. We are extremely excited to unveil our official colours and look forward to an exciting season ahead with the support and love of our fans.”

Speaking to the media, Mr. Yash Jain, Co-owner of Murshidabad Kings & Kueens, said, “This is a very special moment for the franchise as we officially launch our jersey for the upcoming season. The energy and enthusiasm surrounding the team has been incredible and we are confident of making our supporters proud.”

Squad for Bengal Pro T20 League Season 3 – Murshidabad Kings & Kueens:

Murshidabad Kings Squad: Abhishek Raman (Captain), Subham Chatterjee (Vice-Captain), Aditya Purohit, , Saksham Chaudhary, Chandrahas Das, Ayan Bhattacharjee, Aditya Sharma, Nuruddin Mondal, , Rishabh Chaudhary, Toufik Mondal, Suvankar Bal, Irshad Alam, Sayak Jana, Prabin Chhetri, Giriraj Vyas, Rohit Kr. Das, Deepanshu, Head Coach – Sourav Sarkar.

Murshidabad Kueens Squad: Tanusree Sarkar (Captain), Prativa Rana (Vice-Captain), Jahanbi Raj Paswaan, Kashish Agarwal, Priya Pandey, Shivanshi Tiwari, Sushmita Pal, Tanushree Adhikary, Avipsha Ghosh, Sinjini Sarkar, Ishita Biswas, Sanaya Mondal, Adrita Das, Yogita Rawat, Namrata Chandra, Marjina Khatun, Head Coach – Probal Dutta.

By Shri Subrata De, Founder, Swaranjali

Music unites hearts and souls. We are just passing through this world, everything in this world is temporary, but our music is pure and eternal, like a canvas embracing peace and harmony, strengthening our bonds of brotherhood. “Music has its own notes, carrying emotions, personality, love, respect, and trust. No language is needed to understand it; it transcends borders and ages… We are all one family, one world.” 

Music unites hearts and souls. We are but passing through this world, but our music is pure and eternal, like a canvas painted upon this world, a symbol of peace and harmony in our fraternal bonds. 

Save the Nature 
Save life 
Save the world.
Safe yourself 
May God bless you.

New Delhi, June 1, 2026

Traders of Ghazipur Paper Market on Monday voiced their strong opposition to the waste processing facility allotted in the area. At a Mega General Body Meeting organized under the leadership of the IFC Ghazipur Welfare Association, hundreds of traders and plot owners unanimously stated that an area being developed as a modern and world-class commercial center should not be turned into a hub for new waste disposal and processing activities.

Participants at the meeting said that Ghazipur Paper Market is not merely a marketplace but a well-organized business center built through years of effort and investment, supporting the livelihoods of thousands of people. They expressed concern that the proposed Fresh Waste Processing and Biogas Production Project near the area envisages the processing of substantial quantities of municipal waste. According to the traders, locating such activities near a major commercial center and densely populated residential areas could have long-term implications. They believe that it may adversely affect the identity of the area, future investment prospects, and its overall development trajectory.

Mr. Sanjay Kumar, President of the IFC Ghazipur Welfare Association, said that traders have developed the area into a business center with improved infrastructure through their own efforts and resources. He stated that instead of associating the area with waste processing activities, the government should focus on its beautification and further development.

During the meeting, traders urged the government to develop the old Ghazipur landfill site into a park and green zone. They said that such a step would be a more positive and public-oriented contribution towards making Delhi cleaner and greener.

Mr. Ramesh Jain, former President of the Chawri Bazar Association, said, “Ghazipur Paper Market has been developed as a modern commercial center. Establishing a large-scale project involving fresh waste processing and biogas production in such an area is not appropriate. The paper market deals extensively in combustible materials, while the proposed project includes provisions for both waste processing and biogas production. From the perspective of safety and public interest, these activities should not be located in close proximity to each other. We will oppose this proposal at every level and will utilize all available democratic and legal avenues to seek its withdrawal. The government should reconsider this decision while keeping in mind the interests of traders, local residents, and the safety of the area.”

Association office-bearers stated that they have consistently raised their concerns regarding the issue before the relevant government departments, public representatives, and policymakers. They appealed to the government to review the proposed project while taking into account the commercial importance of the area, the surrounding population, and environmental considerations.

During the meeting, traders conveyed a clear message that Ghazipur Paper Market should be developed as a model commercial center rather than being turned into an extension zone for waste management activities. They stated that, if necessary, they would continue their campaign through democratic and constitutional means and would seek broader public support on the issue.

The meeting was attended by Association President Mr. Sanjay Kumar; Vice Presidents Mr. Jatin Sharma, Mr. Ankur Agarwal, and Mr. Rajesh Agarwal; Secretary Mr. Rajender Joshi; Treasurer Mr. Umesh Yadav; Joint Secretary Mr. Sambhav Jain; former Chawri Bazar Association President Mr. Ramesh Jain; Mr. Rajeshwar Gupta (Shobha Cards); and a large number of traders and plot owners.

Tiruchirappalli, June 1 (BNP): Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) President Vijay is scheduled to visit Tiruchirappalli today to participate in a thanksgiving public meeting at the St Joseph’s College ground near Chathiram Bus Stand, organised to express gratitude to voters and supporters from the Tiruchirappalli East constituency.

The event has been arranged to acknowledge public support received during the recent Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, in which Vijay-led TVK secured a decisive mandate to form the government. Vijay had contested from two constituencies — Perambur in Chennai and Tiruchirappalli East — winning both seats before later resigning from the Tiruchirappalli East constituency after assuming office as Chief Minister.

Despite stepping down from the constituency, Vijay is expected to personally thank party workers, supporters and voters in Tiruchirappalli district during the gathering.

According to organisers, Vijay will arrive at Tiruchirappalli Airport from Chennai by a special flight before proceeding to the venue, where extensive preparations and security arrangements have been made.

Unlike a conventional mass rally, attendance at the event will be strictly regulated through QR code-enabled entry passes, with participation capped at around 5,000 people. Organisers clarified that entry will not be permitted without valid authorisation under any circumstances.

As a precautionary measure, passes were reportedly not issued to pregnant women, children, school students, senior citizens, differently-abled individuals and people with health concerns, while authorities advised such groups to avoid attending the programme.

Police and administrative officials have issued guidelines regarding designated parking areas to minimise traffic disruption near the venue. Drinking water, medical support and other basic facilities have also been arranged for attendees.

Meanwhile, party workers and members of the public unable to secure entry passes have been encouraged to follow the event through television broadcasts and live social media coverage to ensure smooth management of the programme.

The thanksgiving meeting is expected to draw political attention in Tamil Nadu as Vijay continues to consolidate his leadership following the party’s electoral success.

Bhubaneswar, June 1 (BNP): Odisha’s traditional summer beverage, Bela Panna (ବେଲ ପଣା), received national recognition after Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted it during the latest edition of Mann Ki Baat, drawing attention to the state’s rich cultural and culinary heritage.

The mention of Bela Panna, a refreshing drink made from wood apple and widely consumed during summer months in Odisha, has been welcomed by cultural enthusiasts and citizens across the state. Deeply rooted in Odisha’s traditions, the drink is known not only for its refreshing taste but also for its health benefits, particularly in combating heat and aiding digestion.

Observers said the Prime Minister’s acknowledgment has brought renewed focus to Odisha’s indigenous food practices and traditional wisdom, which continue to hold relevance in modern lifestyles.

Bela Panna occupies a special place in Odisha’s cultural fabric and is especially associated with the observance of Pana Sankranti, marking the traditional Odia New Year. The beverage symbolises the state’s age-old knowledge of seasonal wellness and sustainable food habits.

The recognition in Mann Ki Baat is being viewed as an important moment for Odisha, encouraging greater appreciation of local traditions and showcasing the diversity of India’s cultural heritage on a national platform.