NEW DELHI: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) on Friday assured road builders that adequate supply of fuel, bitumen and other essential inputs will be maintained amid concerns over a possible fall in bitumen supply and rise in fuel prices.Expressway builders, in a meeting with NHAI chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav, pointed out that the prolonged conflict in West Asia could affect project costs and even tolls on stretches where port traffic has a higher share. They also urged highway authorities to declare the current situation as a force majeure event for highway projects to help them prevent revenue shortfall and concession period extension.Officials said the National Highway Builders Federation (NHBF) has raised several issues, including possible increase in basic input prices that could affect the speed of highway construction.“The NHAI chairman said that they are in continuous coordination with IOCL, which has confirmed that fuel and bitumen stocks are adequate and no major supply disruption is expected. He advised contractors to immediately contact the NHAI regional office and field authorities in case of supply disruption,” said a person who participated in the virtual meeting.Yadav assured the developers that NHAI will coordinate with the local administration to ensure uninterrupted supply of materials.Highway developers said they expect transport costs to increase due to rising diesel prices, while rising raw material costs are expected to lead to higher transport charges. They also recommended that NHAI shorten the price indexation lag from three months to one month to better reflect real-time market conditions and prevent under-compensation of contractors.
Best inverter ACs for non-stop cooling: Energy-efficient picks for powerful and reliable summer comfort at home
With the arrival of the Indian summer, the use of air conditioners and coolers rises sharply, and so does power consumption. This often leads to power outages and voltage fluctuations. In such conditions, investing in an inverter AC is a smart choice. These smart ACs handle voltage fluctuations better while offering energy savings, faster and more consistent cooling, longer lifespan, lower maintenance, quieter operation and a more environmentally friendly cooling solution.
We have shortlisted some of the best inverter ACs from leading brands such as Daikin, LG, Panasonic, Carrier, Lloyd and Hitachi. Most have ratings above four stars, with users praising reliable performance, silent operation, efficient cooling and strong value for money.
The Daikin 1.5 Ton inverter split AC delivers powerful and consistent cooling for medium-sized rooms while maintaining energy efficiency. Designed for Indian summers, it operates smoothly even at high ambient temperatures up to 52°C. Features such as 3D airflow, PM2.5 filter and Dew Clean technology help ensure better air quality and hygienic cooling. Its triple display shows temperature, power consumption and error codes, making it a practical and reliable cooling solution.
Specifications
Special Feature:
Dew Clean tech
Product Dimensions:
298×885×229 mm
Refrigerant:
R32 refrigerant
Reasons to buy
Powerful summer cooling
Advanced air filtration
Reason to avoid
Only 3-star rating
Premium brand pricing
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers praise cooling performance, air quality features and durable build, though some feel installation costs and energy rating could be better.
Why choose this product?
Choose this AC for reliable cooling, air purification features and stable performance in extreme heat with trusted Daikin build quality.
The Carrier Flexicool inverter split AC offers versatile cooling with its convertible technology that allows users to adjust capacity based on room requirements. Designed for efficient performance in Indian summers, it delivers powerful cooling even during high temperatures. The unit includes features like dual filtration, stabiliser-free operation and intelligent inverter control for consistent temperature management. Its energy-efficient design and durable build make it a practical option for everyday home cooling.
Specifications
Cooling Power:
5000 Watts
Special Feature:
Flexicool convertible
Product Dimensions:
96.9 × 30 × 21.5 cm
Refrigerant:
R32 refrigerant
Reasons to buy
Convertible cooling modes
Budget-friendly option
Reason to avoid
Basic design
Average noise levels
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers appreciate its strong cooling, flexible capacity modes and value pricing, though a few mention moderate noise and standard build quality.
Why choose this product?
Choose this Carrier AC for flexible cooling capacity, efficient inverter technology and dependable performance at a relatively affordable price point.
The LG Dual Inverter split AC is designed to deliver fast and efficient cooling while maintaining low noise levels. Its convertible cooling feature allows users to adjust capacity based on room conditions, helping improve energy efficiency. The unit also includes anti-virus protection and advanced filtration to maintain cleaner indoor air. Built for reliable performance in Indian summers, this LG AC combines powerful cooling with quiet operation and smart energy management.
Specifications
Cooling Power:
5000 Watts
Special Feature:
AI Convertible mode
Product Dimensions:
83.7 × 30.8 × 18.9 cm
Refrigerant:
R32 refrigerant
Reasons to buy
Silent operation
Energy efficient
Reason to avoid
Higher price
Installation extra
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers praise its quiet performance, quick cooling and energy efficiency, while some mention slightly higher pricing compared with similar inverter ACs.
Why choose this product?
Choose this LG AC for silent cooling, smart convertible technology and efficient performance backed by a trusted brand and reliable durability.
The Lloyd inverter split AC offers efficient and flexible cooling with its 5-in-1 convertible technology, allowing users to adjust cooling capacity based on weather and room size. Designed for Indian summers, it delivers reliable performance even at high temperatures. The anti-viral and PM2.5 filters help maintain cleaner indoor air, while stabiliser-free operation ensures smooth functioning during voltage fluctuations. Its energy-efficient design makes it a practical and budget-friendly cooling option.
Specifications
Cooling Power:
3450 Watts
Special Feature:
5-in-1 convertible
Product Dimensions:
80 × 29 × 19.5 cm
Refrigerant:
R32 refrigerant
Reasons to buy
Budget friendly
Flexible cooling modes
Reason to avoid
Lower capacity
Basic design
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers appreciate its strong cooling, affordable pricing and flexible modes, with many calling it a good value inverter AC.
Why choose this product?
Choose this Lloyd AC for affordable inverter cooling, flexible capacity options and dependable performance suitable for small to medium rooms.
The Lloyd inverter split AC is built for efficient cooling during intense summers, offering flexible performance with its 5-in-1 convertible technology. It allows users to adjust cooling capacity according to room conditions, improving energy management. Designed for reliable operation even at temperatures up to 52°C, it also includes anti-viral and PM2.5 filtration for cleaner air. Stabiliser-free operation and durable copper components further add to its practical everyday performance.
Specifications
Special Feature:
5-in-1 convertible
Product Dimensions:
87 × 30 × 21.7 cm
Refrigerant:
R32 refrigerant
Reasons to buy
Flexible cooling modes
High temperature cooling
Reason to avoid
3-star efficiency
No smart Wi-Fi
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers appreciate its strong cooling, convertible modes and value pricing, though some feel energy efficiency could be higher.
Why choose this product?
Choose this Lloyd AC for adjustable cooling capacity, dependable performance in extreme heat and practical features at a competitive price.
The LG AI Dual Inverter split AC delivers powerful and intelligent cooling with its 6-in-1 convertible feature that adjusts cooling capacity as per room conditions. Equipped with Viraat Mode for instant cooling and anti-virus filtration, it ensures cleaner and faster comfort during peak summers. The stabiliser-free operation and smart energy management features help maintain efficiency while reducing electricity consumption, making it a dependable cooling solution for modern homes.
Specifications
Special Feature:
AI 6-in-1 cooling
Product Dimensions:
998 × 345 × 210 mm
Refrigerant:
R32 refrigerant
Reasons to buy
5-star efficiency
AI convertible cooling
Reason to avoid
Higher pricing
Installation extra
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers appreciate its silent operation, fast cooling and energy efficiency, though some mention higher pricing compared with similar inverter ACs.
Why choose this product?
Choose this LG inverter AC for intelligent cooling modes, strong energy efficiency and powerful performance backed by reliable dual inverter technology.
The Panasonic inverter split AC is designed for efficient and reliable cooling in medium-sized rooms. Its 7-in-1 convertible cooling mode allows users to adjust capacity depending on weather and usage needs, helping manage electricity consumption. Built to perform even in high temperatures up to 52°C, it delivers steady comfort during peak summers. Features like Crystal Clean technology and stabiliser-free operation further enhance durability and consistent cooling performance.
Specifications
Special Feature:
7-in-1 convertible
Product Dimensions:
870 × 290 × 217 mm
Refrigerant:
R32 refrigerant
Reasons to buy
Convertible cooling modes
High temperature cooling
Reason to avoid
3-star efficiency
No Wi-Fi support
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers praise its fast cooling, reliable performance and flexible modes, though some mention average energy efficiency compared with premium models.
Why choose this product?
Choose this Panasonic AC for dependable cooling, adjustable capacity modes and efficient inverter technology suitable for everyday summer comfort.
The Hitachi Xpandable+ inverter split AC is designed to deliver powerful and stable cooling for medium-sized rooms. Its Xpandable+ technology adjusts compressor output based on heat load for efficient performance. The unit also features FrostWash-powered Ice Clean technology that helps keep internal components hygienic. With long air throw, silent airflow and durable copper components, this AC ensures consistent cooling comfort during intense summer conditions.
Specifications
Special Feature:
Xpandable+ tech
Product Dimensions:
95 × 29.4 × 23.5 cm
Refrigerant:
R32 refrigerant
Reasons to buy
Powerful summer cooling
Self-clean technology
Reason to avoid
3-star rating
No Wi-Fi control
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers appreciate reliable cooling, strong airflow and durable build, though some feel it lacks smart connectivity features.
Why choose this product?
Choose this Hitachi AC for dependable cooling performance, advanced self-clean technology and durable construction suited for heavy summer usage.
The Hitachi Xpandable+ inverter split AC delivers powerful cooling with intelligent compressor control that adjusts output based on room heat load. Designed for Indian summers, it ensures strong airflow with 4-way swing and long air throw for even cooling. The Ice Clean technology helps keep internal components hygienic, while the copper condenser and inverter compressor support durable, energy-efficient operation for everyday home cooling comfort.
Specifications
Special Feature:
Xpandable+ technology
Product Dimensions:
95 × 29.4 × 23.5 cm
Refrigerant:
R32 refrigerant
Reasons to buy
Powerful airflow cooling
Self-clean technology
Reason to avoid
3-star efficiency
No Wi-Fi control
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers praise its strong cooling, durable build and quiet airflow, though some note the absence of smart connectivity features.
Why choose this product?
Choose this Hitachi AC for dependable cooling, intelligent compressor technology and durable copper components suited for long-term summer performance.
The Panasonic inverter split AC combines powerful cooling with intelligent features for modern homes. Its 7-in-1 convertible cooling lets users adjust capacity to match room conditions and save energy. Equipped with nanoe air purification and AI-enabled performance control, it helps maintain cleaner indoor air and consistent cooling comfort. Designed for high-temperature operation and stabiliser-free performance, it delivers reliable cooling during intense summer heat.
Specifications
Special Feature:
7-in-1 convertible
Product Dimensions:
107 × 24.1 × 29.6 cm
Refrigerant:
R32 refrigerant
Reasons to buy
Smart convertible cooling
Air purification feature
Reason to avoid
Higher price
Installation extra
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers highlight its quick cooling, smart features and efficient energy usage, though some mention installation charges increasing overall cost.
Why choose this product?
Choose this Panasonic AC for smart cooling modes, air purification technology and reliable performance designed for efficient summer comfort.
The Carrier Flexicool inverter split AC delivers efficient cooling with flexible performance for modern homes. Its convertible Flexicool technology lets users adjust cooling capacity based on room size and weather conditions, helping manage energy usage effectively. The AC also includes Wi-Fi connectivity and geo-fencing features for convenient smart control. Designed for reliable cooling even in extreme heat, it offers durable performance with stabiliser-free operation.
Specifications
Special Feature:
Flexicool Wi-Fi
Product Dimensions:
80 × 29 × 20 cm
Refrigerant:
R32 refrigerant
Reasons to buy
Smart Wi-Fi control
Flexible cooling modes
Reason to avoid
Lower capacity
Installation cost
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers appreciate its smart connectivity, good cooling performance and value pricing, though some mention it suits smaller rooms better.
Why choose this product?
Choose this Carrier AC for flexible cooling modes, smart Wi-Fi control and dependable performance suited for compact spaces.
What are inverter ACs?
Inverter ACs use variable-speed compressor technology that adjusts power based on cooling demand. This improves energy efficiency, ensures consistent temperatures, reduces noise levels and enhances overall durability compared with conventional air conditioners.
Is inverter AC better than normal AC?
Yes, inverter ACs are generally better than normal ACs as they adjust compressor speed for efficient cooling, consume less electricity, operate more quietly and maintain consistent room temperature.
Which brand of inverter AC is best?
Several brands are considered among the best for inverter ACs, including Daikin, LG, Panasonic, Hitachi and Carrier, known for efficient cooling, durability, advanced inverter technology and reliable performance.
What are the benefits of inverter ACs?
Inverter ACs offer energy efficiency, faster cooling, stable temperature control and quieter operation. They reduce electricity consumption, handle voltage fluctuations better and usually last longer with lower maintenance compared with conventional air conditioners.
Factors to consider when buying inverter ACs
- Cooling capacity: Choose the right tonnage based on room size to ensure efficient and uniform cooling.
- Energy rating: Higher star ratings help reduce electricity consumption and lower long-term running costs.
- Convertible cooling modes: Adjustable cooling capacity helps manage energy use according to weather and room conditions.
- Air filtration: Features like anti-dust or anti-viral filters improve indoor air quality.
- Noise levels: Look for models designed for quiet operation, especially for bedrooms.
- Smart features: Wi-Fi control, app connectivity and voice support add convenience.
- Build quality: Copper condensers and durable components ensure better performance and longer lifespan.
Top 3 features of inverter ACs
| Inverter AC | Noise Level | Core Material | Special Features |
| Daikin 1.5 Ton 3 Star Inverter Split AC (MTKL50U) | Low noise | Copper condenser | Coanda airflow, Dew Clean, PM2.5 filter |
| Carrier 1.5 Ton 3 Star Flexicool Inverter Split AC (CAI18EE3R36F0) | Low noise | Copper condenser | 6-in-1 convertible, Insta Cool, Auto Clean |
| LG 1.5 Ton 5 Star DUAL Inverter Split AC (US-Q19YNZE3) | Very low | Copper condenser | AI convertible, VIRAAT mode, 4-way swing |
| Lloyd 1 Ton 5 Star Inverter Split AC (GLS12I5FWBEV) | Low noise | 100% copper | 5-in-1 convertible, Anti-viral filter |
| Lloyd 1.5 Ton 3 Star Inverter Split AC (GLS18I3FWAGC) | Low noise | Copper condenser | 5-in-1 convertible, PM2.5 filter |
| LG 1.5 Ton 5 Star DUAL Inverter Split AC (US-Q19YNZE3) | Very low | Copper condenser | AI convertible, HD anti-virus filter |
| Panasonic 1.4 Ton 3 Star Inverter Split AC (CS/CU-SU17AKY3T) | Low noise | Copper condenser | 7-in-1 convertible, PM0.1 filter |
| Hitachi 1.5 Ton 3 Star Xpandable+ Inverter Split AC (RAS-D318PCCIBS) | Low noise | 100% copper | Xpandable+ tech, Ice Clean |
| Panasonic 1.5 Ton 5 Star Wi-Fi Inverter Split AC (CS/CU-HU18BKYFM) | Very low | Copper condenser | True AI mode, nanoe X purification |
| Carrier 1 Ton 3 Star Wi-Fi Flexicool Inverter Split AC (CAI12EE3R36W0) | Low noise | Copper condenser | Wi-Fi control, Geo-fencing |
Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
Canada launches program to provide permanent residency to 33,000 foreign workers. Immigrants should know this
Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab confirmed that Canada has launched a program to convert skilled temporary foreign workers into permanent residence amid concerns about a growing number of immigrants losing their legal status.The scheme aims to grant permanent status to 33,000 workers in in-demand industries within two years. The plan was first announced in November, but government officials have since provided few details. “We’ve launched it,” Diab told The Star in an interview this week. She added: “I can’t tell you exactly how many so far, but we will provide more clarity and more details in April.”Recent government data shows that more than 2.1 million temporary residents’ permits are due to expire in 2025, and a further 1.9 million are expected to lose their status in 2026. The figures raise concerns about a potential surge in the undocumented population.The plan is part of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s effort to reduce the share of non-permanent residents in Canada’s population to below 5 per cent by 2027, from 6.8 per cent at the end of 2025. Converting temporary immigrants into permanent residents is seen as a key way to achieve this goal. Last year, more than half of the 395,000 new permanent residents were previously in Canada on a temporary permit.“If you are in Canada on a temporary basis, whether as a visitor, student or worker, and for whatever reason you wish to stay longer than that, we recommend that you apply for an extension,” Diab said.She added: “If you don’t apply for an extension, we want you to honor your commitment and leave. We also want to say that even if you apply for an extension, it may be granted or it may be denied for a variety of reasons. If it is denied, we want you to leave as well.”
What is Bill C-12?
Diab also oversees the controversial Bill C-12, which would give immigration officials the power to cancel, suspend or suspend documents and applications in the public interest. “It’s extraordinary power,” she said. She added, “A decision like this requires a lot of attention.”The minister’s goals are to reduce the number of temporary residents, stabilize the arrival of permanent residents, ensure the settlement of French-speaking countries outside Quebec and implement an international talent attraction strategy. She is working closely with the provincial government and local communities to balance workforce needs and worker protections. “Politicians say, ‘Shut down the temporary foreign worker program,’ but I hear the voices of hundreds of industries, businesses, employed people, chambers of commerce… they need workers because there are not enough Canadians to fill the jobs in certain industries,” Diab said.Diab also addressed the situation of international students, who face significant declines under new federal plans. “The more we can take care of our institutions and our integrity and strengthen our systems and make sure that incoming students are actually getting a valuable education, I think that’s really the most important thing,” she said.
Chicago weather update: Thunderstorms causing ground delays at O’Hare; heavy rain, flooding possible
Thunderstorms moved into the Chicago area Friday morning, causing ground delays at O’Hare International Airport. The Federal Aviation Administration initially issued a ground grounding due to severe weather, but later downgraded it to a ground delay. Several flights were delayed or canceled as a result.
Also read: Oklahoma tornado tragically kills Major County mother, daughter: Severe weather warning issued
Meteorologists provide the latest news
Increased temperatures were also reported in the area. As of about 9 a.m., fog was forming in the area and the temperature was about 52°F.
Temperatures near O’Hare are expected to rise to around 70°F, while areas closer to Lake Michigan may stay around 60°F.
National Weather Service meteorologist David King said that while temperatures will rise, the chances of breaking warm weather records are diminishing as heavy clouds limit sunlight.
“If we hit this temperature (70 degrees), we’ll tie the record,” King told the Chicago Sun-Times. “We’re still looking forward to a nice warm day, but it’s going to be very wet.”
Some rain may continue into Saturday morning, though forecasters said totals are still expected to be limited.
“But there wasn’t a lot of precipitation,” King said. “It will be a little breezy with gusts of 25-30 mph.”
Temperatures are expected to reach the mid-60s on Saturday and the mid-50s on Sunday.
Meanwhile, NBC 5 Chicago Storm Team meteorologist Alicia Roman said storms moving through the area in the morning are expected to “bring a punch” with torrential downpours, thunder and lightning.
“The idea is that the storms should stay below severe criteria this morning, which means we won’t see gusty, damaging winds throughout the morning,” Roman said. “But we could see storms with heavy rain and lightning.”
Also read: Is there a fire in Charlotte today? Smog and poor air quality spark concerns
National Weather Service Advisory
The National Weather Service in Chicago also warned that storms are expected Saturday morning.
“Storms are expected today into Saturday morning. Highest coverage this morning will be approximately northwest of I-55. Storm coverage in the afternoon is uncertain, but some could be severe if storms develop. A significant number of showers/storms will develop tonight into early Saturday morning.”
Delhi Foreign Minister: There is no shortage of funds for development projects and no slack can be allowed
New Delhi: Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday reiterated that there will be no shortage of funds for development works in Delhi and asserted that laxity will not be tolerated.Gupta chaired a review meeting of the earlier approved road and drainage projects and directed the authorities concerned to complete the bidding process by the end of March to ensure that the projects are completed before the monsoon.“The progress of development work must be visible on the ground. So far, three departments have sanctioned development projects worth a total of about Rs 3,786 crore. All agencies must coordinate closely to expedite the completion of pending documents,” the chief minister said.The purpose of the meeting was to review the work of the Chief Minister’s Development Fund (CMDF), Delhi Rural Development Board (DVDB) and Trans-Yamuna District Development Board.“To strengthen infrastructure in the national capital, a large number of projects have been sanctioned under the CMDF scheme. So far, 3,812 development projects have received administrative approval under the scheme with an estimated total cost of approximately Rs 1,798.85 crore,” Gupta said.After the meeting, the Chief Minister said that the Delhi government is taking concrete steps for overall development of villages. “In this direction, the Delhi Rural Development Board has sanctioned 707 projects in various rural areas with an outlay of approximately Rs 1,557 crore.” She also said that in the Trans-Yamuna region, the Trans-Yamuna Development Council has approved 799 projects with an outlay of approximately Rs 430 crore.She added that the projects included construction of roads and drainage systems, water supply-related works, installation of street lights, development of parks and other infrastructure.
‘When people hear H-1B…’: Investigative journalists weigh in on immigration policy and local worker displacement
Dallas Express investigative reporter Kellen McGovern Jones will speak Thursday night about federal H-1B visa policy and its impact on Texas communities. His speech will be held for members and guests of the Coppell Republican Women’s Conference at 6:15 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. at Spring Creek in Louisville.Jones’ appearance is part of his ongoing tour exploring how the H-1B visa program affects the state’s local labor market, universities and public policy debates. “When people hear ‘H-1B,’ they tend to think it’s a distant Washington issue,” Jones said before the first few stops on the tour. He added: “The reality is that it affects who is hired, who is fired, what wages are, and how local taxes are spent in a place like Coppell.”In his speech, Jones discussed how companies and academic institutions use the visa program, as well as reforms proposed by members of Congress and U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration. Jones’ recent report shows new federal data on the companies receiving the most H-1B approvals in Texas. Cognizant Technology Solutions leads the state with over 50,000 approvals, followed by Infosys Limited with over 45,000 approvals. Other major winners between 2020 and 2025 include Oracle US, Tesla and KPMG.Jones also examines the intersection of immigration and federal housing programs. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development does not track the citizenship status of recipients of certain Federal Housing Administration-guaranteed loans, even if H-1B visa holders are ineligible, a Freedom of Information Act request shows.His reporting also covered the historical use of the H-1B program, including claims that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein sponsored visas for colleagues in the 1990s. Notably, Ghislaine Maxwell first obtained long-term U.S. status through Epstein-related H-1B sponsorship.Jones’ reporting on higher education visa applications shows Texas A&M University spent more than $3.25 million to fund H-1B workers, primarily for lower-level teaching positions through 2025.“This is not just immigration policy in the abstract,” Jones said.He added: “It’s about whether communities are subsidizing labor decisions that displace local workers or drive down wages, and whether taxpayers are honest about where their money is going. There are legitimate trade-offs to this plan, and we should be honest about what those trade-offs are.”The Louisville event will conclude with a Q&A session where attendees can discuss the H-1B program and its local impact directly with Jones.
Jesse Jackson Funeral at Chicago’s House of Hope: Full Schedule, Speakers and Performers
Rev. Jesse Jackson died in February at age 84 after battling a rare neurological disease, progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). His funeral is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. at Chicago’s House of Hope.
The service will be open to the public as well as invited guests. Former U.S. President Bill Clinton, barack obama and Joe Biden Expected to attend.
Full schedule
musical prelude:
traditional mass choir
Call to Order – Official
Reverend James T. Meeks, pastor emeritus of Salem Baptist Church in Chicago
Dr. Charles Jenkins
Pastor Emeritus, Chicago Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church
Bible:
Matthias Jackson, “Old Testament”
Atticus Jackson, “New Testament”
Acknowledgments and Resolutions
pray:
Rev. Dr. Michael Pfleger
Pastor Emeritus of the Faith Community of Saint Sabina
Rabbi Sharon Burrows
Founder of IKAR (Los Angeles)
Rev. Dr. Otis Moss III
trinity united church of christ
music selection:
Hezekiah Walker
“Every compliment”
expression:
Rabbi Steven Jacobs
Progressive Faith Foundation
Pastor Steve Muncy
Family Christian Center
Judge Greg Mathis
opening:
joseph jackson
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson
music selection:
opal nails
expression:
James Reynolds Jr.
Chairman and CEO of Loop Capital
CK Hofler
Chairman of the Board of Directors of Rainbow Promotion Alliance
Thomas S. Ricketts
Chicago Cubs Chairman
Isaiah Thomas
NBA player, Hall of Fame
His Excellency Barack Obama
The 44th President of the United States
music selection:
Jennifer Hudson
“Change is coming”
expression:
Pastor Al Sharpton
Founder of National Action Network
James Zogby
Founder of the Arab American Institute
Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego
President of the Republic of Colombia
expression:
Dear William Jefferson Clinton
The 43rd President of the United States
Video tribute:
Dr. Amadou Janaeh (Gambia)
Andre Ramirez (Yugoslav prisoner of war)
music selection:
Andrea Johnson
“We will overcome it”
family expression:
former congressman jesse jackson jr.
expression:
John Nichols
Congressman Chuy Garcia (IL-04)
Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-35)
Pastor Jamal Bryant
new life missionary baptist church
music selection:
Marvin Sapp
“Never succeeds”
expression:
Hon Kamala Devi Harris
46th Vice President of the United States
The Honorable Joseph Biden
The 46th President of the United States
music selection:
Babe Winans
“Stand”
family expression:
Dr. Jacqueline Jackson
ashley jackson
Music selection:
Santita Jackson
“To God be the glory”
family expression:
Congressman Jonathan Jackson (IL-01)
music selection:
Marvin Winans
“Let the church say Amen”
bless:
Dr. Charles Jenkins
Pastor Emeritus, Chicago Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church
recession
Days before ‘IRIS Dena’ was sunk by US, India provides safe harbor to another Iranian ship
New Delhi: Days before the Iranian naval vessel IRIS Dena was sunk off the coast of Sri Lanka in a US attack, India has allowed another Iranian ship to dock in Kochi after Tehran sought emergency assistance over technical issues, government sources said. Sources said Iran reported technical issues while operating in the area and contacted India on February 28 to request permission for the IRIS Lavan vessel to enter the Cochin port.Sources said the ship was part of a task force traveling to the region to participate in an international fleet review.
emergency docking request
Government sources said Iran’s request said the ship needed an emergency docking in Kochi to resolve technical issues.Indian authorities approved the docking on March 1.According to sources, the ship then arrived and docked in Kochi on March 4
Sailors live in naval facilities
Meanwhile, the ship’s 183 crew members are being accommodated at an Indian naval facility in Kochi, sources said.Government sources said, “Days before the IRIS Dena incident in southern Sri Lanka, Iran approached India to take delivery of the Iranian ship IRIS Lavan, which was also in the region for an international fleet review.”“The request was received on February 28, 2026, indicating the urgency of docking in Kochi due to technical issues experienced by the ship. The docking was approved on March 1. IRIS Lavan thereafter docked in Kochi on March 4. In this case, its 183 crew members are currently residing at the naval facility in Kochi,” the source added.Wednesday’s sinking of the IRIS Dena comes as the war sparked by a joint U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran continues to spread across the Middle East and beyond. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the attack and warned Washington it would “deeply regret” setting such a precedent. ” The United States has committed atrocities at sea 2,000 miles off the coast of Iran. The Indian Navy’s frigate Dena with nearly 130 sailors on board was attacked in international waters without any warning,” he posted on X. Araghchi added: “Mark my words: The United States will deeply regret the precedent it has set.”Sri Lanka evacuated 208 crew members from an Iranian navy ship on Thursday, a day after a US submarine sank an Iranian frigate.
Politico owner Axel Springer to acquire UK Telegraph for £575m, deal awaits regulatory approval
German media group Axel Springer announced on Friday that it will acquire Telegraph Media Group for 575 million pounds, and the proposed transaction is subject to approval by British authorities.Axel Springer, owner of Politico magazine, said it is acquiring the right-leaning British publication. The company said the deal requires UK regulatory approval.Mathias Döpfner, CEO of Axel Springer, said in a statement: “More than 20 years ago, we tried unsuccessfully to acquire the Telegraph. We have admired this great publication for decades. Now our dream has come true.”He added: “We want to help it become the most read and inspiring center-right outlet in the English-speaking world.”Axel Springer is not the only media company interested in buying the Telegraph, with the Daily Mail & General Trust already proposing a £500m takeover.Dopfner added: “The Telegraph stands for freedom, individual responsibility, democratic values and belief in an open society and a market economy. These beliefs are closely linked to our fundamental values at Axel Springer.”A spokesman for the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport said on Friday: “We note today’s announcement about the sale of Telegraph Media Group. The UK Secretary of State will, as she has always done, follow the established regulatory process and evaluate the proposed new deal. We will keep Parliament updated on the status of this process.”“Dopfner’s statement said the buyer and seller “believe the transaction is fully compliant with the UK’s foreign influence regime”.
‘Main hoon na’: Nitish Kumar reassures party amid anguish over Lok Sabha move; nods to son Nishant’s entry
New Delhi: BJP leaders on Friday expressed anguish over chief minister Nitish Kumardecided to move to Delhi to serve as members of the Lok Sabha, but the party president tried to appease them, saying “main hoon na” (I am here). He also cleared the way for his son Nishant’s political entry.At a meeting held at Nitish’s official residence, JD(U) legislators and Congress MPs expressed their concerns over Nitish’s decision to resign as Bihar chief minister and move to the Union House. State Parliamentary Affairs Minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary said party MPs were reassured that he had taken the decision on his own and was not under any pressure.“He also assured that he will continue to provide guidance to party workers in Bihar,” news agency PTI quoted Chaudhry as saying.Chaudhry added that Nitish Kumar has given the green light to Nishant to enter politics and he may join the party within a day or two, although details about his role will be announced later.Senior minister Shravan Kumar said the party leaders expressed their anguish but supported Nitish’s decision, adding that Nishant’s inclusion can inject energy into the organization.JD(U) spokesperson Neeraj Kumar said it was wrong to suggest that party workers were angry. “They are in pain and this was conveyed to the chief minister in today’s meeting. He said – Major Huna,” he said.Since his announcement, some party workers have protested outside the JD(U) office.Bihar’s longest-serving chief minister Nitish on Thursday filed his nomination for a Lok Sabha seat in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, triggering a political storm.Speculations are rife that the Bharatiya Janata Party, the largest party in the Bihar Assembly, may push for its own chief minister after Nitish steps down, although JD(U) leaders said the issue will be decided by the party’s top leadership.