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You can never have enough kitchen towels, right? There's always something that needs cleaning in the kitchen. Whether it's to clean off a spill, dry the plates or wipe your hands, a kitchen towel should always be at hand. But you need good quality absorbent ones that will be able to serve the purpose, otherwise it's a waste of money. Here are some good ones you can consider for your kitchen. <bulletContentEmbed name="B07GBZ1KV8" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B07GBZ1KV8_head"><div type="image" title="Lightweight Material." msid="90913601" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B07GBZ1KV8</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B07GBZ1KV8_body"><bulletContentRow name="B07GBZ1KV8_5951337501804722"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">SOFTSPUN Microfiber Cleaning Cloths</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">These 40x40cms cleaning cloths come in a pack of 4 and are super effective. They are lightweight, very absorbent and don’t leave any lint or fibres after use. You can use it to wipe the kitchen counter, sink, dining table and to dry off the washed plates and utensils. It's a multipurpose cloth that can be used on all surfaces.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B07GBZ1KV8_2232151876176059"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">Suitable to be used for multipurpose, the towels are highly absorbent.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed> <bulletContentEmbed name="B07GVSKGVG" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B07GVSKGVG_head"><div type="image" title="Soft Material" msid="90444078" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B07GVSKGVG</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B07GVSKGVG_body"><bulletContentRow name="B07GVSKGVG_8560529670942535"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">Amazon Brand - Presto! Non-woven Kitchen Towel Roll</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">A soft and lightweight product, this is a set of 2 kitchen cloths. Made from nonwoven material, this can be used to clean the kitchen counter, sink and other surfaces. It's got 80 pulls and can be rinsed and reused again, unlike other kitchen rolls. You can buy them separately or in the combo pack.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B07GVSKGVG_5754630590923163"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">The towels are easy to wash and use again.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed> <bulletContentEmbed name="B00NBM185U" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B00NBM185U_head"><div type="image" title="Quick Dry" msid="90444146" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B00NBM185U</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B00NBM185U_body"><bulletContentRow name="B00NBM185U_1973888016074048"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">Scotch-Brite Cotton Kitchen Towels</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">The Scotch-Brite kitchen towel has a honeycomb structure that absorbs and traps the dirt, so you can use it to wipe off dry and wet surfaces. It's an affordable option and you get 3 towels in the pack. It's a cotton towel that is lightweight and dries quickly, so you can easily use it to wipe kitchen counters, cabinets, and utensils.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B00NBM185U_5117821279997866"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">The towels makes cleaning effective.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed> <bulletContentEmbed name="B07V7FLHNQ" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B07V7FLHNQ_head"><div type="image" title="Multicolour Towels" msid="90444181" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B07V7FLHNQ</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B07V7FLHNQ_body"><bulletContentRow name="B07V7FLHNQ_4309032180012207"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">COMFORT WEAVE Cotton Hand Towel</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">This is a pack of 8 and comes at a great price, making it a great deal. You always need kitchen towels for various purposes- drying utensils, wiping off stains and spills, and dusting the dining table and cabinets. These towels are made of cotton, are lightweight and dry fast.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B07V7FLHNQ_0551384290835585"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">Made from cotton material, towels are easy to dry.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed> <bulletContentEmbed name="B083F9TKD1" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B083F9TKD1_head"><div type="image" title="Machine Washable" msid="90444259" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B083F9TKD1</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B083F9TKD1_body"><bulletContentRow name="B083F9TKD1_4379080057604289"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">Pixel Home Decor Kitchen Towel</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">Available in a pack of 5, these towels are aesthetic and colourful. They are lightweight, absorbent and can easily be hand washed or machine washed. You can even use it to wrap foods like chapatis and puris; it will absorb the excess oil. It's a multipurpose cloth that can be used for dusting and cleaning.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B083F9TKD1_3390525268306689"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">The towels absorb oil, ensure cleaning and dusting.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed> <bulletContentEmbed name="B00VNN23O4" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B00VNN23O4_head"><div type="image" title="Non-Woven" msid="90444312" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B00VNN23O4</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B00VNN23O4_body"><bulletContentRow name="B00VNN23O4_2492713624954327"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">Ginni Kitchen Towel Roll</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">Another nonwoven kitchen towel roll that you can consider buying, this one can be washed and reused after using. There are 50 pulls in each and it's a pack of 3. Regular kitchen rolls can't be reused, making this the more convenient and affordable option. They can be used as table napkins too.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B00VNN23O4_6862581514409598"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">The towels are easy to use and clean.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed>

Best hand towels to buy in India

Kitchen racks are an important organizing tool that help you keep your kitchen clutter-free. Many people prefer using racks in their kitchen for keeping spices &amp; pulses jars, others may use the same rack for placing vegetables, garlic or even fruits. Various styles, shapes and sizes of kitchen racks are available which have multiple shelves and segments to store big and small items. Some racks have drawers and can be fixed in a corner or on a wall, while some have wheels that add to their portability. When choosing a kitchen rack the design, the size and the make of the rack are essential. Stainless steel kitchen racks are the most popular and in-demand because they are sturdy, durable and a great way of accessorising and uplifting the look of the kitchen. Here are a few top stainless steel kitchen racks for different types of kitchen spaces. <bulletContentEmbed name="B0827HJZBB" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B0827HJZBB_head"> <div type="image" title="Top Pick" msid="78000347" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B0827HJZBB</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B0827HJZBB_body"><bulletContentRow name="B0827HJZBB_1861184188157852"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">EverEx Stainless Steel Spice 2-Tier Trolley Container Organizer Organiser/Basket for Boxes Utensils Dishes Plates for Home (Multipurpose Kitchen Storage Shelf Shelves Holder Stand Rack)</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">This product has a very modern appeal, and its rugged chrome steel body makes it very durable. The 2 shelves on this rack can accommodate ample stuff. Small and big, both the sizes of jars or cutlery can be kept on this rack. Whether being used in a kitchen, a bedroom, a bathroom or any other space, things can be kept in an organised way on this rack. This product is recommended even for hostels and dormitories. The rack can be kept over a counter, on the floor or even mounted on a wall.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B0827HJZBB_2604613986479395"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">2-tier trolley stand rack.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed> <bulletContentEmbed name="B07YG895HX" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B07YG895HX_head"><div type="image" title="Editor&amp;#39;s Pick" msid="78000287" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B07YG895HX</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B07YG895HX_body"><bulletContentRow name="B07YG895HX_4896292253996172"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">Plantex Stainless Steel 2-Tier Kitchen Rack/Spice Shelf/Kitchen/Pantry Storage Organizer(Silver-Chrome)</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">Meant for compact spaces, this beautiful chrome-plated steel kitchen rack is especially a good option for smaller kitchens to store and organise pantry items. Despite being small in size, it is strong and durable. Due to the thoughtful design of the rack, the spice jars won’t topple over when picking and keeping them. The rack can also be used for keeping cosmetics and other non-food items in the house. Ventilated design of the rack helps in keeping the stored items dry and clean, creating a better shelf life. There are 4 small rubber caps on the legs of this rack to provide stability and to prevent any sliding.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B07YG895HX_8359135569212924"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">Countertop 2-tier rack with chrome plated metal frame.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed> <bulletContentEmbed name="B07RTZ5JVZ" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B07RTZ5JVZ_head"><div type="image" title="Popular Pick" msid="78000307" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B07RTZ5JVZ</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B07RTZ5JVZ_body"><bulletContentRow name="B07RTZ5JVZ_4922640401908955"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">Single 3-Tier Stainless Steel Multipurpose Storage Kitchen Best Corner Stand Rack (Silver)</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">Sometimes the corner space in the kitchen is left unutilised, which is when a product like this can make storage of things more efficient. With 3 spaced out shelves, you can store veggies, kitchen linen and even jars. The weight of this item is only 280 gms, ideal for easy movement from one area to another. Dust particles on the rack can be easily cleaned with a cloth, therefore the shine is regained.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B07RTZ5JVZ_1076278746818549"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">3-tier corner stand rack.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed> <bulletContentEmbed name="B07QCWVY1Q" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B07QCWVY1Q_head"><div type="image" title="Must Have" msid="81569519" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B07QCWVY1Q</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B07QCWVY1Q_body"><bulletContentRow name="B07QCWVY1Q_1880006860301676"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">Plantex Stainless Steel Multipurpose 3 Tier Kitchen Rack/Storage Shelf/Cutlery Storage Rack/Dish Rack/Storage Rack for Kitchen (Chrome Finish)</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">These 3-tier rack from Plantex is made up of high quality stainless steel material. It has a beautiful nickel chrome mirror finish. The rack helps in keeping the kitchen organised and takes very little space. It is sturdy and strong and has great durability. You can use it as a free-standing rack, countertop or can also mount it by the wall.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B07QCWVY1Q_3990132541806538"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">Rust and corrosion proof rack.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed> <bulletContentEmbed name="B07R9NWFXB" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B07R9NWFXB_head"><div type="image" title="Also Consider" msid="81569583" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B08V8JCRB8</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B07R9NWFXB_body"><bulletContentRow name="B07R9NWFXB_2935086614135969"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">Unify Multipurpose Stainless Steel kitchen plate dish corner shelf rack stand shelves, storage cupboard, cabinet organizer, organiser for home bathroom living room, Size:25*25*30 CM, Chrome Finish</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">This product is the perfect answer to your storage woes. Meant for the corner space in the kitchen, this high-quality stainless steel 3-tier rack is great to keep plates, servings bowls, and other cutlery items. The rack has a premium &amp; smooth welding finish making it worth the money spent. Whether kept over a counter, under the sink, or inside a cupboard, this durable and rust-free rack will maximize the vertical space.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B07R9NWFXB_1864933038420610"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">3-tier corner shelf rack.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed>

Versatile stainless steel racks for your kitchen in India

Fingerprint readers are a must-have in the modern office space. They keep your computers safe from intruders and add an extra layer of protection to your sensitive data. They can also be used in offices for identity authentication, entry and exits, or in government offices to record citizens’ data. All in all, they are highly useful and serve as the modern age authentication for your identity. Here are some of the <keyword id="12676169" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="best-biometric-devices" source="Orion">best biometric devices</keyword> for this purpose. <bulletContentEmbed name="B07KM9LH13" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B07KM9LH13_head"><div type="image" title="Optical Sensor" msid="88112027" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B07KM9LH13</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B07KM9LH13_body"><bulletContentRow name="B07KM9LH13_6622522146549983"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">Mantra MFS100 Biometric Fingerprint Scanner</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">The Mantra MFS100 can be used for authentication, identification and verification functions that let your fingerprint act as a digital password that can’t be lost, forgotten or stolen. The hard optical sensor is resistant to scratches, impacts, vibrations and electrostatic shock, making it durable. It can connect via USB and be used for Aadhaar projects, NDLM projects and many other projects.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B07KM9LH13_6209345114920137"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">It is sturdy, and has a tough glass panel for scanning, making it a great pick for public offices.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed> <bulletContentEmbed name="B01N6NNSMX" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B01N6NNSMX_head"><div type="image" title="Shock-Resistant" msid="88112034" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B01N6NNSMX</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B01N6NNSMX_body"><bulletContentRow name="B01N6NNSMX_3756842468073557"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">SecuGen Hamster Pro 20 Biometric Fingerprint Scanner</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">This is an accurate optical USB fingerprint sensor with 500 DPI resolution. It automatically detects the finger when placed on the reader. Smart capture works with dry, moist, aged, scarred, and even difficult-to-scan fingers. The scratch, impact, corrosion, and electrostatic shock-resistant glass plate makes it perfect for use by many people. It has an ultra-compact, low profile design. It supports SecuGen, MINEX Certified, and third party algorithms.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B01N6NNSMX_2699902703503118"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">It can scan prints very fast, and has an ultra-compact, low profile design.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed> <bulletContentEmbed name="B07NZ8CGMV" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B07NZ8CGMV_head"><div type="image" title="Durable Build" msid="88112039" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B07NZ8CGMV</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B07NZ8CGMV_body"><bulletContentRow name="B07NZ8CGMV_0239452423793890"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">Yukonics-Mantra MFS-100 Biometric Finger Print C-Type Scanner</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">Looking for something that’s easy to use? This is a great pick, it features plug and play USB 2.0 high-speed interface and supports multiple devices. It has a 500 DPI optical fingerprint sensor which is high quality and can read all kinds of hard to decipher fingerprints. It also has a scratch-free sensor that makes it highly durable in the long run.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B07NZ8CGMV_5684239455886449"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">Thanks to USB 2.0 connection, and fast scanning, this is one of the best all-around fingerprint scanners.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed> <bulletContentEmbed name="B09BL2VG9K" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B09BL2VG9K_head"><div type="image" title="Wide Compatibility" msid="88112060" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B09BL2VG9K</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B09BL2VG9K_body"><bulletContentRow name="B09BL2VG9K_2430467779625719"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">Velentron - Secugen Hamster HU20/Pro20 Biometric Fingerprint USB Scanner</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">As far as biometric fingerprint scanners are concerned, this is an accurate and efficient fingerprint scanner designed to read all kinds of fingerprints. It has support for a host of fingerprint related projects such as Aadhaar reading and other government schemes. It can support SecuGen and third party algorithms and happens to be MINEX certified. Supports international and U.S. biometric standards.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B09BL2VG9K_9772211382475529"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">It is compatible with all kinds of fingerprint scanner algorithms and offers completely accurate and secure fingerprint scanning.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed> <bulletContentEmbed name="B08XQ5V7Z7" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B08XQ5V7Z7_head"><div type="image" title="Easy Installation" msid="88112061" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B08XQ5V7Z7</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B08XQ5V7Z7_body"><bulletContentRow name="B08XQ5V7Z7_6173660455707845"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">Escozor ABS Smart Biometric Digital Lock Fingerprint for Cabinet or Drawer</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">Here’s a fingerprint scanner to keep your cabinets and drawers safe. It can store up to 20 fingerprints and is very easy to install even by laymen, making it highly convenient. It has intelligent features which remind you to swap out the batteries. There is also a micro USB cable that charges it for emergencies. It features quick fingerprint recognition as well.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B08XQ5V7Z7_6723569306361677"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">It is ideal for locking up money cabinets.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed> <bulletContentEmbed name="B01JUEN0EY" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B01JUEN0EY_head"><div type="image" title="Easy Operation" msid="88112067" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B01JUEN0EY</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B01JUEN0EY_body"><bulletContentRow name="B01JUEN0EY_3523070634132112"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">Cogent CSD 200 Fingerprint Scanner</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1"> This is a value for money fingerprint scanner for new users. It has a 500ppi resolution which captures fingerprints in high-quality resolution. It is fully feature packed along with auto-capture, adjustable brightness, contrast, and gain functions. This helps you further manage the fingerprints that you record and get the detail and information in a manner that suits you. It is also fast at reading prints.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B01JUEN0EY_8019587664375773"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">It is easy to use.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed>

Biometric devices for convenient identity authentication

<ul><li>At the Business Insider Global Trends Festival, Indian billionaire Kumar Mangalam <keyword id="39439" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="birla">Birla</keyword> shared that he’s pleasantly surprised by the comeback of the infrastructure sector.</li><li>According to him, aluminium and cement are now back to pre-COVID levels. </li><li>Birla outlines two factors that shaped the sharp recovery in India’s cement industry — people building their own homes just in case they need to stay for longer and their increasing incomes from agriculture.</li></ul>One of India’s richest men and the owner of the $48 billion conglomerate spread across 34 countries, billionaire Kumar Mangalam BIrla is pleasantly surprised by the comeback in infrastructure. “There was a big question around what would happen to infrastructure spending. If I just see aluminium and cement businesses, they’ve both come back to pre-COVID levels very quickly,” he said during a candid conversation at BI Global Trends Festival 2020. <div type="twitter" handle="BiIndia" handlename="Business Insider India🇮🇳" image="http://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1232926719016718336/sfffJHNV_normal.jpg" favoritecount="1" retweetcount="0" status="@AdityaBirlaGrp @businessinsider @BIJapan @BIDeutschland @BIPolska @awscloud &quot;Almost all sectors we are in, we seem… https://t.co/WFhtQnoXpI" createdat="1603124417000" id="1318225466168205312"></div> Cement, one of the key segments in infrastructure, continued to hold its ground during the first three months after the lockdown in India was lifted. This is despite the fact that June to September from a seasonally weak quarter for the sector. The reversal of fortunes in the second quarter can be explained by what’s happening in rural India, according to billionaire and chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, Kumar Mangalam Birla. It started with migrant workers hustling back to their villages and hometowns as daily work dried up amid India’s nationwide coronavirus lockdown. “People are now building a new home, they’re adding one more room to their existing houses out of safety — just in case they have to stay at their homes for longer,” Birla explained at the Business Insider Global Trends Festival 2020. While many lost their livelihoods due to the COVID-19 lockdown, those who have managed to keep their farms running have benefitted from government measures. “Supply prices have been fixed by the government for agri-products, which means incomes in rural India have gone up so you see people constructing individual houses,” he said. The increase in demand is supported by the recovery in supply of cement as well. Production saw a massive dip of 86% in April post the announcement of the nationwide lockdown. Since then, the sector has shown a V-shaped recovery. <div type="image" title="cement output" msid="78791708" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;India&amp;#39;s cement production in 2020&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div> Five cement stocks to jump by 12% in two months “Cement demand surprised with a sharp recovery in the second quarter against a yearly 30% decline in the March quarter,” noted a report by HDFC Securities. <keyword id="6355596" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="ultratech-cement">UltraTech Cement</keyword> — a subsidiary of the Aditya Birla Group — is expected to outperform its competition in the second-quarter earnings. It is the largest manufacturer of cement in the country and third largest in the world. UltraTech shares gained 1.93% on the Indian stock market today, after the company’s second quarter results showed a 113% rise in net profit. The industry behemoth along with other cement stocks have clocked in double-digit rally over the last three months. And, there may be more upside ahead. Motilal Oswal Securities has pegged the share prices of UltraTech Cement, Ambuja Cement, ACC, JK Laxmi Cement and Dalmia Bharat to rise by 12% in the following two months. <table style="border-width: initial; border-style: none; width: 468pt; table-layout: fixed;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Company </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Share price gains over the last three months (1 July - 21 Oct) </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">UltraTech Cement </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">17.5% </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Ambuja Cement </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">34% </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">ACC </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">26.3% </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">JK Lakshmi Cement </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">12.5% </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Dalmia Bharat </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">31% </td></tr></tbody></table>Source: BSE Despite the recent rally, most listed cement companies are still trading at lower multiples compared to the average trading multiples of the last year. Trading multiples are a set of valuation metrics used to evaluate similar businesses on the market. It’s also important to note that even as the demand for cement is rising, it is not equal across different parts of the country. While companies are likely to benefit from better utilisation in northern, central, and western parts of the country — Maharashtra and eastern markets will continue to bear the impact of cement flow from the southern region, according to Emkay Research. The South is the only region where the average utilisation rate is under 99%. The brokerage’s report notes that while the pricing trend in each region is diverse, northern, central and the Gujarat region will be a better pricing scenario. Southern region witnessed the highest price hike of around 14% against the average price increase between 3% to 5% across the country. Emkay also points that rather than rural India — the pick up in demand for cement is government driven. “Recovery in cement demand has surprised positively after lockdown norms were eased,” it said in its report. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/careers/news/hcl-tech-is-bringing-employees-back-to-offices-weekly-once-to-start-with/articleshow/78802219.cms">EXCLUSIVE: HCL Tech is bringing employees back to offices — once a week to begin with</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/thelife/news/luxury-icons-sabyasachi-and-oberoi-open-up-about-their-perfectionist-quirks-like-checking-the-color-of-egg-yolks-and-slashing-clothes-so-they-cant-hit-the-edit-table/articleshow/78771113.cms">Luxury icons Sabyasachi and Oberoi open up about their 'perfectionist quirks' like checking the colour of egg yolks and slashing clothes so they can’t hit the edit table</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/bonus-for-30-lakh-public-sector-employees-announced-by-union-cabinet/articleshow/78786783.cms">Bonus for 30 lakh public sector employees announced by Union Cabinet</a>

EXCLUSIVE: Billionaire Kumar Mangalam Birla is surprised by the rebound in infrastructure and construction in India

New Delhi, Jun 18 () India should be the world's largest coal exporters considering the size of reserves it has, and unlocking of coal mining for commercial players is a step in that direction, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday. Launching the virtual auction process for 41 coal blocks for commercial mining, expected to garner Rs 33,000 crore of capital investment in the country over next 5-7 years, the Prime Minister said it is a major step in the direction of achieving 'self-reliance'. He also said that the coronavirus pandemic has taught India to be self-reliant. The launch of the auction process not only marks the beginning of unlocking of the country's coal sector from the "lockdown of decades", but aims at making India the largest exporter of coal, PM Modi said. Presently, despite being the world's fourth largest producer, he said India is the second largest importer of the dry-fuel. "The country which in terms of coal reserves is the fourth-largest nation and is the second-largest coal producer, that country is not exporting coal. But is the second largest importer of coal. The big question is when we are the largest producer of the world... If it is true, why can't we be the largest exporter," Modi said. The PM further said, "We are committed to turning the coronavirus crisis into an opportunity." The Prime Minister said that the government has set an aim of gasification of 100 million tonnes of coal by 2030 with an investment of Rs 20,000 crore. "We have kept an aim that by the year 2030, which means in this decade, around 100 million tonnes of coal should be gasified... For this, four projects have been identified and in them around Rs 20,000 crore would be invested." Lambasting past policies of keeping the sector closed and pointing out towards controversies and scams that shrouded the sector in the past, he said that now there is full transparency in auctions with a wide set of reforms. Commercial coal block auction will be a win-win for industry users, and new resources will open up with states getting more revenue and employment, he said. The PM said that the government has taken important decision to open up coal, mining sector to competition, capital and technology and termed it a major step in the direction of India achieving 'self-reliance'. The PM said that this auction process will result in major revenues to states and create employment besides development of the far-flung tribal areas. The commencement of auction process of these blocks, part of the series of announcements made under 'Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan', are likely to contribute Rs 20,000 crore revenues annually to the state governments. In line with the Prime Minister's self-reliance call, the aim behind the auction process is to achieve self-sufficiency in meeting energy needs and boost industrial development. The government has taken an important decision to open up coal, mining sector to competition, capital and technology, he said. Coal and Mines Minister Pralhad Joshi, who was also be present during the launch event, said Rs 50,000 crore is being invested in the sector to jack up India's coal output to 1 billion tonnes. With a view to achieve self-reliance in the coal sector, the Ministry of Coal in association with FICCI launched the process of auction of 41 coal mines under the provisions of Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Act and Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act. Upon attainment of peak rated capacity of production of 225 million tonnes (MT), the government said, these mines will contribute about 15 per cent of the country's projected total coal production in 2025-26. It will also lead to employment generation for more than 2.8 lakh people -- direct employment to approximately 70,000 people and indirect employment to approximately 2,10,000 people, as per the government. Vedanta Group Chairman Anil Agarwal and Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekharan also attended the launch event. The decision was taken during a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by the Prime Minister. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, while announcing the stimulus package for the coronavirus-hit economy, had said coal mines would be auctioned to the private sector for commercial mining to end reliance on imports and improve local production. The methodology approved by the CCEA provides that bid parameter will be revenue-share, the government had said, adding that bidders would be required to bid for a percentage share of revenue payable to the government. SID NAM ANZ NAM ANS ANS

India should aim to become world's largest coal exporter: PM at launch of commercial coal mining

India and Russia could be connected to each other via a multi-mode network for carrying freight via the International North South Transportation Corridor (<keyword id="2075269" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="INSTC">INSTC</keyword>). The corridor would connect the two countries via Europe and Iran. 
 
Also read: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/India-deal-for-Chabahar-Port/articleshow/52402008.cms">Here is how India will gain from the strategic pact for developing Chabahar Port</a> 
 
A dry run of container movement via this green corridor (smooth customs facilitation) will soon be conducted, to honour the 70th anniversary of Indo-Russian diplomatic ties on April 13. 
 When used, INSTC will significantly reduce the time taken and cost for transport of goods between India and <keyword id="833829" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Eurasia">Eurasia</keyword>, thus increasing economic activities between India and the resource-rich markets of Russia and Europe. 
 
It was after India decided to join international customs convention TIR following approval from the cabinet that the corridor has moved to being implemented. 
 Delhi is working on INSTC as part of connectivity initiatives along with the implementation of China's <keyword id="3316632" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="One-Belt-One-Road">One Belt One Road</keyword> strategy. 
 
Prime Minister <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/topic/Narendra-Modi">Narendra Modi</a>, who is set to visit St Petersburg for International Economic Forum in June, might also visit the Astrakhan entry point of INSTC in Russia. 
 
Talking of INSTC, it is a 7,200-km long network which would have rail, road and water routes. By reducing the travel costs and time, it is all set to give a major boost to trade between Russia, <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/politics/India-Iran-unite-on-combating-terror-and-radicalism/articleshow/52402271.cms">Iran</a>, Central Asia, India and Europe. 
 
Also read: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/India-Iran-ties/articleshow/52400926.cms">India to invest 1 lakh crore in Iran so that it can enter Central Asia without stepping into Pakistan</a> 
 
(Image source Youtube)

A multi-mode network for moving freight between India and Russia could soon be a reality

India will finally develop its own stealth combat drones or <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/searchresult.cms?query=UCAV">UCAV</a>s (unmanned combat aerial vehicles). These drones can fire missiles and head back home. 
 
Sources said the government might approve a Rs 2,650 Crore <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/searchresult.cms?query=Project+Ghatak">Project Ghatak</a> which has been cleared by the defense ministry. The project is apparently being evaluated by an expert committee set up by the finance ministry. Once approved, <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/searchresult.cms?query=Project+Ghatak">Project Ghatak</a> will be placed before the cabinet committee on security for the final nod. 
 
<a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/searchresult.cms?query=Project+Ghatak">Project Ghatak</a> is based on the earlier AURA (autonomous unmanned research aircraft) programme sanctioned in 2009 at a cost of mere Rs 12.50 Crore. The goal there was to carry out a ‘conceptual and feasibility study’. The Minister of State for Defence <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/searchresult.cms?query=Rao+Inderjit+Singh">Rao Inderjit Singh</a> told Parliament earlier this month that the project was successfully completed in April 2013 within the schedule. 
 <keyword id="6355142" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="80" keywordseo="DRDO">DRDO</keyword> and IAF have now launched <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/searchresult.cms?query=Project+Ghatak">Project Ghatak</a> to build an aerial vehicle that weighs lesser than a fighter jet. The <keyword id="616608" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="UCAV">UCAV</keyword> will take at least a decade to become fully-operational. 
 
Interestingly, the <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/searchresult.cms?query=UCAV">UCAV</a> is expected to be powered by a ‘52-kilonewton dry variant’ of the indigenously-developed Kaveri aerospace engine, which could not be fitted into the Tejas light combat aircraft. 
 
Image credit: Indiatimes

India will have its own stealth combat drones…but in a
decade! *Sigh*

Dhaka: <keyword id="19919639" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="bangladesh" source="keywords">Bangladesh</keyword>'s garment industry, a vital economic pillar, is facing a severe crisis due to a volatile mix of <keyword id="20444027" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="political-unrest" source="keywords">political unrest</keyword>, including violent protests, and catastrophic flooding, threatening to unravel years of rapid growth and global prominence. The textile and garment industry, which accounts for over 80 per cent of Bangladesh's total export earnings and contributes approximately 11 per cent to the nation's GDP, has been hit hard. This industry contributes significantly to export earnings and employs millions. Following the unprecedented anti-government protests, which reached a crescendo on August 5, Sheikh Hasina resigned as prime minister and fled the country. She landed in India on August 5 and is currently staying there. The two-month-long anti-quota protests have led to widespread demonstrations, curfews, and violence. This unrest has not only disrupted factory operations but has also caused significant economic losses. Factories were forced to close, and with the peak season for Christmas shipments and the booking of next season's orders upon us, the timing of the unrest has exacerbated the crisis. The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (<keyword id="22930680" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="BGMEA" source="keywords">BGMEA</keyword>) recently has reported substantial financial losses, estimating a shortfall of Tk 6,400 crore (approx Rs 4,500 crore) due to the shutdowns and communication breakdowns. Khandoker Rafiqul Islam, the newly elected president of the BGMEA, mentioned that the goal of reaching nearly USD 45 billion in exports this year may not be achieved. He attributed this to disruptions in both export activities and production. "I think this is a temporary crisis and we will tide over it. The exact magnitude of the losses will be known later, but yes, there has been an impact," he told PTI. Echoing similar sentiments, former cabinet minister and president of BGMEA, Gholam Sarwar Milon, said the garment industry has been badly hit by both the political unrest and the floods, as both production and the supply chain of raw materials have been severely affected. "The crisis in the garment industry is unprecedented. Production is nearly 15-20 per cent less than the corresponding period last year. Several orders have dried up as investors and order suppliers are wary about investing. Several small factories have either closed down or are working on sub-contracts for big factories," he told PTI. According to BGMEA sources, out of 3,000 major and small garment factories in Bangladesh, nearly 800-900 have closed since last year. "The big factories have survived, but the small and medium factories have borne the brunt. If the situation persists, it will worsen further," he said. Milon suggested that the garment industry needs to diversify into making jute bags and other high-end clothing and also look for new markets. The Bangladesh Textile Mills Association has projected losses of around USD 58 million. The impact on the industry is compounded by the recent flooding, which has further disrupted logistics and exacerbated the economic fallout. Bangladesh's main port, Chattogram, through which more than 90 per cent of the country's international trade transits, has become a focal point of the chaos. The port's operations were paralysed during the political unrest, leading to significant delays in shipments. Factories have struggled to maintain production schedules, and backlogs at ports and airports have stretched to a month in some cases. To mitigate the damage, factories have turned to air freight and extended working hours, but these measures have not fully alleviated the delays. The president of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), Mohammad Hatem, said orders are down by 15-20 per cent. "The industry has incurred huge losses in the last few months. In 2014, during political unrest, we suffered a similar situation. It then took us three years to return to the previous state. We hope to tide over the situation soon as Chief Advisor <keyword id="20024384" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="muhammad-yunus" source="keywords">Muhammad Yunus</keyword> is taking several steps to restore normalcy," he told PTI. Hatem feels that if the situation is not overcome soon, there is a growing perception that foreign investors might look at new markets in other South Asian nations. "However, other South Asian markets don't have the infrastructure like Bangladesh, which has such huge production capacity," he said. The garment industry's workforce, which employs over 4 million people directly and nearly 15 million indirectly, with a significant proportion of women, faces mounting uncertainty. The sector's remarkable growth over the past two decades-from USD 5 billion in exports in 2001 to nearly USD 40 billion in 2023-now stands at risk. The floods have compounded the challenges, causing damage to infrastructure and further complicating logistics. Monsoon rainfall-triggered floods in deltaic Bangladesh and upstream Indian regions have killed several people and marooned or affected nearly 3 million others in Bangladesh, posing a huge administrative challenge to the newly installed interim government amid a political transition. "Due to the floods, the supply chain has been badly affected. We reached a high in 2023-24 where our garment exports touched around USD 46 billion. This time it is likely to be much less," said former army major and owner of a woollen garment factory, Mahfuzur Rehman. The sector's growth from a small-scale operation in the early 1980s to becoming the world's second-largest apparel exporter, after China, underscores its strength. In the financial year 2009, Bangladesh's apparel exports were valued at USD 12 billion. By the financial year 2023-24, this figure had surged to over USD 46 billion, reflecting the industry's capacity for recovery and growth even amid adversity. In response to the crisis, the interim government, now led by Nobel Peace Prize-winning economist Muhammad Yunus, has prioritised restoring order and stability. According to garment industry insiders, the path to recovery is fraught with challenges as the political instability has undermined investor confidence, and the recent flooding has further strained the already fragile infrastructure. "The sector's resilience will be tested as it attempts to regain its footing and restore its reputation as a reliable global supplier," a garment industry owner, who did not wish to be named, said. He added that despite the current crisis, Bangladesh's textile and garment industry has shown great strength and the ability to recover in the past.

Bangladesh garment industry faces crisis amid political unrest and floods

<keyword id="22949" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="cinnamon" source="Orion">Cinnamon</keyword>, with its warm and tantalizing aroma, has enchanted cultures across the globe for centuries. Its unique flavor profile and potential health benefits have made it an integral part of both culinary and medicinal traditions. In this article, we'll delve into the captivating world of cinnamon, exploring its origins, nutritional value, health benefits, culinary applications, types, buying and storing tips, as well as precautions and potential side effects. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="What is Cinnamon?" comment="subhead" text="What is Cinnamon?">What is Cinnamon?</cmsannotation> Cinnamon is the inner bark of trees that are native to South Asia, primarily Sri Lanka and India. After harvesting, the bark is dried and rolled into cinnamon sticks, also known as quills, or ground into powder. The two most common <keyword id="10053007" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="types-of-cinnamon" source="Orion">types of cinnamon</keyword> are Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) and cassia cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia). <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Nutritional Value" comment="subhead" text="Nutritional Value">Nutritional Value</cmsannotation> Cinnamon may be small in size, but it packs a potent nutritional punch. It is a rich source of antioxidants, particularly polyphenols, which have been linked to various health benefits. Additionally, cinnamon is a good source of manganese, fiber, calcium, and iron. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Health Benefits" comment="subhead" text="Health Benefits">Health Benefits</cmsannotation> Cinnamon's potential health benefits extend beyond its delightful flavor: Blood Sugar Regulation: Cinnamon may help lower blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity. Antioxidant Boost: Its high polyphenol content contributes to its antioxidant properties, which may protect cells from oxidative stress. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Cinnamon contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially benefiting those with chronic inflammatory conditions. Heart Health: Some studies suggest that cinnamon may help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce blood pressure. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Culinary Uses" comment="subhead" text="Culinary Uses">Culinary Uses</cmsannotation> Cinnamon's warm and comforting flavor lends itself to a myriad of culinary applications: Baking: Cinnamon is a staple in baked goods like cinnamon rolls, cookies, and pies. Hot Beverages: It's a delightful addition to coffee, hot chocolate, and teas. Savory Dishes: Cinnamon adds depth to stews, curries, and marinades. Desserts: Sprinkle it over ice cream, yogurt, or fruit for an extra layer of flavor. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Types of Cinnamon" comment="subhead" text="Types of Cinnamon">Types of Cinnamon</cmsannotation> Ceylon Cinnamon (True Cinnamon): With a delicate, sweet flavor, Ceylon cinnamon is considered to be of higher quality and safer for prolonged consumption due to lower coumarin content. Cassia Cinnamon: More widely available, cassia cinnamon has a stronger flavor and aroma. However, its higher coumarin content raises concerns about potential side effects with excessive consumption. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="How to Buy and Store Cinnamon" comment="subhead" text="How to Buy and Store Cinnamon">How to Buy and Store Cinnamon</cmsannotation> When purchasing cinnamon, consider these tips: Opt for freshly ground cinnamon for maximum flavor. Choose reputable brands to ensure quality. Store cinnamon sticks in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness. Ground cinnamon should also be stored in airtight containers away from heat and light. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Precautions and Potential Side Effects" comment="subhead" text="Precautions and Potential Side Effects">Precautions and Potential Side Effects</cmsannotation> While cinnamon offers numerous benefits, excessive consumption can lead to potential side effects due to its coumarin content. Cassia cinnamon contains higher levels of coumarin, which may be harmful in large quantities. Consider these precautions: Limit cassia cinnamon intake, especially for individuals taking blood thinners or with liver conditions. Pregnant women and individuals with allergies should consult their healthcare providers before consuming large amounts of cinnamon. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Frequently Asked Questions" comment="subhead" text="Frequently Asked Questions">Frequently Asked Questions</cmsannotation> 1. Is cinnamon safe for pregnant women? Pregnant women should consume cinnamon in moderation. Consult a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes. 2. Can cinnamon help with weight loss? While cinnamon may have a positive impact on blood sugar regulation, it's not a standalone solution for weight loss. A balanced diet and regular exercise are key. 3. Is there a difference between cinnamon powder and cinnamon sticks? Both forms offer similar flavor but using cinnamon sticks imparts a milder taste and can be removed after cooking. 4. Can cinnamon interact with medications? Yes, particularly in high amounts. Cassia cinnamon may interact with blood-thinning medications, so consult a doctor if you're concerned. 5. Can cinnamon be used for skincare? Cinnamon's antimicrobial properties make it a common ingredient in skincare, but its potency can cause skin irritation. Always do a patch test before using it on your skin. Cinnamon, a timeless spice revered for its aroma, taste, and potential health benefits, remains an essential ingredient in both kitchens and medicine cabinets. Its versatility allows it to shine in a variety of dishes, while its historical significance and modern-day allure continue to captivate people worldwide. As with any potent ingredient, moderation and awareness of individual sensitivities are key to unlocking cinnamon's benefits while avoiding potential pitfalls. Note: The article is based on content generated by AI models like Bard and Chatgpt. <h3>SEE ALSO:</h3><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/science/health/food/mint-leaves-checkout-its-nutritional-value-health-benefits-and-uses-of-mint/articleshow/102971201.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Mint Leaves: Nature's fresh breath of flavor and wellness</a>

Unveiling the aromatic wonder: A comprehensive guide to cinnamon

<keyword id="1594301" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="hing" source="Orion">Hing</keyword>, scientifically known as Ferula assa-foetida, is an aromatic resin derived from the roots of certain species of Ferula plants. Revered for centuries for its distinct flavor, potent aroma, and versatile applications, hing is an essential ingredient in Indian cuisine and traditional medicine. Beyond its culinary use, hing boasts a range of nutritional and health benefits, making it a staple in both kitchens and medicine cabinets. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="What is Hing (Asafoetida)?" comment="subhead" text="What is Hing (Asafoetida)?">What is Hing (<keyword id="1298879" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="asafoetida" source="Orion">Asafoetida</keyword>)?</cmsannotation> Hing, also referred to as "asafoetida," is a gum-like resin obtained from the taproots of Ferula plants, native to Central Asia and the Middle East. This resin is extracted by making incisions in the living roots and then drying the exuded gum. Hing's pungent and sulfurous aroma mellows into a more palatable flavor when cooked, adding depth and complexity to various dishes. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Nutritional Value" comment="subhead" text="Nutritional Value">Nutritional Value</cmsannotation> While hing is not a significant source of macronutrients, it contains a range of volatile compounds that contribute to its unique taste and medicinal properties. These compounds include terpenes, sulfur-containing compounds, and various other phytochemicals that offer health benefits. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Health Benefits" comment="subhead" text="Health Benefits">Health Benefits</cmsannotation> Digestive Aid: Hing has been used traditionally to aid digestion and relieve flatulence. Its antispasmodic and carminative properties help alleviate stomach discomfort and promote smooth digestion. Anti-inflammatory: The anti-inflammatory compounds present in hing may provide relief from inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and certain digestive disorders. Antimicrobial: Hing's antimicrobial properties make it valuable in fighting bacterial and fungal infections, potentially aiding in wound healing and preventing infections. Blood Pressure Regulation: Some studies suggest that hing may have blood pressure-lowering effects, contributing to cardiovascular health. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Culinary Uses" comment="subhead" text="Culinary Uses">Culinary Uses</cmsannotation> Hing is a prized ingredient in Indian cuisine, especially in vegetarian dishes where it serves as a substitute for the umami-rich flavor of garlic and onions. It's used sparingly due to its strong flavor. Hing is often added to lentil dishes, rice, pickles, and spice blends like garam masala to enhance their taste and aroma. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Types of Hing (Asafoetida)" comment="subhead" text="Types of Hing (Asafoetida)">Types of Hing (Asafoetida)</cmsannotation> Raw Hing: This is the purest form of hing and is sold in lumps or blocks. It requires additional processing before use. Compounded Hing: This form is mixed with a filler, like rice flour, and is milder in taste. It's more commonly available in stores. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="How to Buy and Store Hing (Asafoetida)" comment="subhead" text="How to Buy and Store Hing (Asafoetida)">How to Buy and Store Hing (Asafoetida)</cmsannotation> When purchasing hing, opt for high-quality brands that provide detailed information about the origin and processing. Store hing in an airtight container away from direct sunlight and moisture to maintain its flavor and aroma. Medicinal Use for Stomach Hing's digestive properties make it a popular remedy for stomach-related issues. A pinch of hing mixed with water or ginger juice can help alleviate indigestion, bloating, and gas. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Precautions and Potential Side Effects" comment="subhead" text="Precautions and Potential Side Effects">Precautions and Potential Side Effects</cmsannotation> While hing offers numerous benefits, some individuals may be sensitive to its strong aroma and flavor. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and those with certain medical conditions should consult a healthcare professional before using hing as a medicinal remedy. Overconsumption of hing can lead to adverse effects like headaches or nausea. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Frequently Asked Questions" comment="subhead" text="Frequently Asked Questions">Frequently Asked Questions</cmsannotation> 1. Is hing safe for pregnant women? Asafoetida, commonly known as hing, is generally considered safe for consumption during pregnancy when used in moderate amounts. However, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating it into your diet, as individual sensitivities can vary. Some women might experience discomfort or allergic reactions to hing, so it's advisable to exercise caution and seek medical advice. 2. Can hing be used as a replacement for garlic and onions in recipes? Hing can be used as a flavor enhancer and a substitute for garlic and onions, especially in dishes where these ingredients are used to impart a savory and umami taste. While hing doesn't replicate the exact flavor profile of garlic and onions, it can add depth and complexity to dishes without overpowering them. It's a valuable option for those who avoid garlic and onions due to dietary restrictions or personal preferences. 3. What are the different forms of hing available in the market? Hing is available in various forms to cater to different culinary needs: Powdered Hing: This is the most common form, where asafoetida resin is ground into a fine powder. It's easy to use and blends well into dishes. Solid Hing: Asafoetida resin is sold in solid chunks or blocks. These need to be crushed or grated before use and are known for their potent flavor. Compound Hing: This form is a mixture of powdered hing and other ingredients like rice flour or wheat flour. It's often milder and easier to handle than pure powdered hing. 4. How does hing contribute to digestive health? Hing has been traditionally used in Indian cuisine for its potential digestive benefits. It contains compounds like asaresinotannols and ferulic acid, which are believed to aid in digestion by stimulating the release of digestive enzymes. Additionally, hing has carminative properties that can help alleviate gas and bloating. However, individual responses may vary, and it's best to consume hing in moderation as part of a balanced diet to support digestive health. 5. Is hing used in international cuisines apart from Indian cooking? While hing is most commonly associated with Indian cuisine, it is also used in other international cuisines, particularly those influenced by Indian flavors. In Middle Eastern and Persian cooking, for example, hing is sometimes added to rice dishes or stews for its unique flavor. Additionally, hing has found its way into some vegetarian and vegan dishes around the world as a substitute for garlic and onions. Its pungent aroma and umami taste can add depth to a variety of dishes, making it a versatile ingredient beyond Indian cooking. Hing, or asafoetida, is a versatile and aromatic resin that brings depth and flavor to Indian cuisine while offering a range of potential health benefits. From its traditional use as a digestive aid to its culinary applications and antimicrobial properties, hing has earned its place not only in the kitchen but also in the realm of natural remedies. As with any ingredient, moderation and awareness of potential sensitivities are key to harnessing the benefits of this ancient spice. Note: The article is based on content generated by AI models like Bard and ChatGPT. <h3>SEE ALSO:</h3><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/science/health/food/home-remedies-that-you-can-do-for-staying-safe-from-viral-fever/articleshow/102646924.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">8 Effective home remedies to stay safe during ongoing flu/viral outbreak in India</a>

Hing (Asafoetida): Aromatic resin with culinary and medicinal charms

New Delhi, Jan 3 () State-owned Coal India allocated 16.95 million tonnes (MT) of the dry fuel under special forward e-auction to the power sector in the April-November period of this fiscal, down 22.6 per cent over the year-ago period.
 Coal India (CIL) had allocated 21.91 million tonnes (MT) of coal in the April-November period of 2018-19, according to the latest monthly summary by the coal ministry for the Cabinet.
 However, the coal allocation by the PSU under the scheme increased to 4.05 MT in November, 2019, over 1.53 MT in November 2018, it said.
 The special forward e-auction scheme is aimed at making an earmarked quantity of coal available for supply through e-auction to all power producers.
 All power producers, other than captive power plants already commissioned, are eligible to apply for the special forward e-auction.
 CIL had earlier said that it intends to tentatively offer 10 per cent of its targeted production of 660 MT in 2019-20 through e-auction and out of which 50 per cent of the quantity (33 MT) is planned through special forward e-auction.
 Coal India accounts for over 80 per cent of domestic coal output.
 The state-owned firm had earlier said that it will produce 750 million tonnes of coal in the next financial year.
 The firm will further produce 1 billion tonnes of coal by FY2024, Coal Minister Pralhad Joshi had earlier said. SID DRR

Coal allocation by CIL to power sector under e-auction drops 23 pc in Apr-Nov

<ul><li><keyword id="560063" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-Steel-Industry">Indian steel industry</keyword> on Wednesday welcomed the government's decision to promulgate an ordinance to open up <keyword id="6356966" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="coal">coal</keyword> mining in the country to non-coal companies.</li><li>The amendment, ISA said, will remove the end-user restrictions besides allowing seamless transfer of environment and forest clearance in operational mines. </li><li>JSW Steel Chairman Sajjan Jindal said the move will go a long way in reducing the coal imports.</li></ul> Indian steel industry on Wednesday welcomed the government's decision to promulgate an ordinance to open up coal mining in the country to non-coal companies.
In a statement, apex steel industry body Indian Steel Association (ISA) said it hails the decision of the Cabinet to amend MMDR Act 1957 and Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Act 2015.
 "This is a huge reform announced by the government on commercial mining in Coal. This change in Act will help the country to reduce its dependence on coal imports and help attract investments from Indian and Global corporates," it said.
 The amendment, ISA said, will remove the end-user restrictions besides allowing seamless transfer of environment and forest clearance in operational mines.
 The step taken today was a long pending reform which will make the domestic steel industry more competitive on a global level, the association said.
 JSW Steel Chairman Sajjan Jindal said the move will go a long way in reducing the coal imports.
 "Huge reform announced by the government on commercial mining in coal. This will go a long way in reducing the coal imports which is over USD 15 billion/year," he said.
 In today's time when the oil prices are very uncertain, Jindal said, the decision was path breaking in making India self-reliant.
 Continuity of all forest and environment clearances for iron-ore mines for a period of two years is another great reform, he added.
 "This was a long pending reform which will make the Indian Steel industry more aggressive and competitive on a global level," he said.
 JSPL Chairman V R Sharma termed the decision as a 'game changer' for the industry.
 India has reserves for another 300 years and the time is ripe to use it. If it is not utilised now, it wont be able to utilised in future as developed countries are against coal usage.
 "They are spreading on international platforms that using coal is damaging the environment, which is incorrect. Like we do at our Angul plant which is India's first and largest syngas-based DRI plant and coal gasification plant (CGP) for steel-making," he said.
 Coal can be converted into syngas which can be used for producing petrol, diesel and other <keyword id="84980" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="petroleum">petroleum</keyword> products, which can reduce dependence on crude oil imports, he added. The government on Wednesday approved an Ordinance to amend a law in order to ease rules for auctioning of coal mines and opening it for non-coal companies.
 The decision taken by the Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister <keyword id="6354477" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Narendra-Modi">Narendra Modi</keyword>, will also do away with end-use restrictions of the mining blocks, Coal Minister Pralhad Joshi said. "The Cabinet has approved promulgation of Mineral Laws (Amendment) Ordinance 2020," the minister said, addressing media after the Cabinet meeting.
 The Ordinance will ease rules for auctioning coal mines to open up to all sectors.
 It will allow auction of 46 iron ore and other mines before March 31, 2020.
 "The Centre has also approved gas grid for Northeast states and viability gap funding for Northeast grid. Viability gap funding for the North-East <keyword id="6354703" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="natural-gas">natural gas</keyword> pipeline Grid is a decision that shows the dedication of this government in encouraging growth in this region," ISA said. The government on Wednesday also approved a proposal to provide Rs 5,559 crore viability gap funding for building a 1,656 km gas grid in the Northeast region at a cost of Rs 9,256 crore.
 The decision will provide viability gap funding to Indradhanush Gas Grid Ltd for setting up the North East Natural Gas Pipeline Grid. ABI BAL

Steel players hail govt's decision to open coal sector

<div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_right"><div><div class="image on-image"><a href="https://pictures.reuters.com/Package/2C0BF1OJIJBFW#/SearchResult&amp;ALID=2C0BF1OJIJBFW&amp;VBID=2C0BX47PO185&amp;POPUPPN=17&amp;POPUPIID=2C0BF1OJ4N4N4">Reuters/Abhishek N. Chinnappa</a>A sheep shakes itself dry after it was given a wash by its trader at a livestock market ahead of the Eid al-Adha festival in Bengaluru, India.</div></div></div>Here is what you need to know.Chinese manufacturing fell. The latest gauge of Chinese manufacturing sank to its lowest reading in six years. The Caixin-Markit Flash PMI fell to 47.0 in September, down from 47.3 in August, missing expectations for an uptick to 47.5. The internals of the report were weak as output, new orders, new export orders, and employment all fell at a faster pace. The Chinese yuan weakened 0.1% to 6.3839 per dollar.Euro zone PMIs mostly miss. Germany's Flash Manufacturing PMI fell to 52.5 from its previous reading of 53.3 and Flash Services PMI slipped to 54.3 from 54.9. The news was a bit better in France as Flash Manufacturing PMI regained the expansion line with a 50.4 print, up from last month's 48.3. French Flash Services PMI also improved, climbing to 51.2 from 50.6. <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/eurozone-pmis-flash-september-2015-9?r=UK&amp;IR=T">The euro zone as a whole was disappointing.</a> Flash Manufacturing eased to 53.9 from 53.5 and Flash Services slipped to 54.0 from 54.4. The euro is stronger by 0.3% at 1.1158.Greece's prime minister unveiled his new cabinet. Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras announced his <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/afp-greek-pm-tsipras-unveils-new-cabinet-govt-spokeswoman-2015-9">new coalition government</a>. Euclid Tsakalotos retained the position of finance minister after serving in the role for a brief time following the resignation of Yannis Varoufakis. Greece's 2-year yield is up 15 basis points at 10.45%.Volkswagen has recovered its early losses. Shares of Volkswagen <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/volkswagen-shares-fall-third-day-eu-markets-open-sept-23-2015-9">plunged more than 7% in early trade</a>, but have come roaring back and are now little changed. The stock lost 29% in the previous two sessions after it was reported the company developed software that released false emissions data. On Tuesday, Volkswagen issued a profit warning and announced it would set aside €6.5 billion ($7.27 billion) to "cover the necessary service measures and other efforts to win back the trust of our customers."Beijing is accusing China's largest broker of front-running its stock market rescue. Bloomberg reports, China's largest securities broker, CITIC, <a href="http://uk.businessinsider.com/chinas-largest-stock-broker-busted-2015-9">allegedly used advanced knowledge</a> of the government's stock rescue plan to benefit the firm. Chinese state-run media has reported seven executives, including president Cheng Boming, are under investigation for alleged offenses including front-running. However, a CITIC spokeswoman told Bloomberg the company hasn't received formal notification regarding the nature of the investigation.MetLife upped its buybacks. The largest US life insurer <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/r-metlife-boosts-share-buyback-program-to-1-billion-2015-9">raised its share buyback program buy $1 billion</a>. According to Reuters, the company had just $261 million remaining on its previously announced buyback plan.Instagram has more than 400 million monthly users. Facebook's Instagram has <a href="http://uk.businessinsider.com/instagram-hits-400-million-users-2015-9">crossed the 400 million monthly user mark</a>, according to a company blog post published on Tuesday. Active monthly users are up 33% from December, when it was reported the photo sharing app had 300 million users. According to the release, more than 75% of users live outside the US.Global stock markets trade mixed. Hong Kong's Hang Seng (-2.3%) paced the decline in Asia as Japan's Nikkei remained closed for holiday. In Europe, Britain's FTSE (+1.4%) leads the gains. S&amp;P 500 futures are up 4.50 points at 1936.25.US economic data is light. Crude oil inventories are due out at 10:30 a.m. ET. The US Treasury will auction $35 billion 5-year notes at 1 p.m. ET. The US 10-year yield is higher by 2 basis points at 2.15%. Earnings reports remain slow. H.B. Fuller, Steelcase and Worthington report after the closing bell. <div class="margin-top"> <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/invest-warren-buffett-berkshire-hathaway-2015-2">How to invest like Warren Buffett</a></h3> <div> <div> <div class="ooyala-video-player" data-video-autoplay="false" data-video-id="s3M3ZhbDpuxZm0OsRtnfcALpwlLIe4o6" data-player-variable="ooyalapopvideo" id="ooyalaplayer_popvideo" style="width:1280px;height:720px"></div> </div> </div> </div>

10 things you need to know before the opening bell

<h2><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"></div></div></div></h2>
In many places attacking the rights of gay people can still be politically useful and popular
IN THE argot of human rights, LGBT means lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender--a catch-all term for sexual minorities. But Yahya Jammeh, president of Gambia for 20 years, has a different reading. "As far as I am concerned," he thundered during a televised speech in February, "LGBT can only stand for leprosy, gonorrhoea, bacteria and tuberculosis." He compared gay people to vermin, and said his government would fight them as it does malaria-bearing mosquitoes, "if not more aggressively".
Gay sex is illegal in Gambia, as it is in 37 of Africa's 54 countries. Documented evidence of a criminal homosexual conspiracy to poison Gambian culture remains elusive. But politicians remain vigilant: in August the government brought in fresh anti-gay legislation. A few weeks later ministers in Chad approved a bill mandating prison sentences of 15 to 20 years for gay sex. Across Africa, and elsewhere in the world, politicians have found gay people a useful scapegoat to distract from corruption or other domestic problems, to shore up conservative constituencies, or to steal a march on political rivals.
The best-known example is Uganda. In 2009 David Bahati, an MP, introduced a bill which would have imposed the death penalty in cases of "aggravated homosexuality", a term that covers gay sex with people under 18 and people with disabilities or HIV. There was a furious response from <keyword id="6356001" type="COMPANY" weightage="60" keywordseo="international">international</keyword> human-rights groups and some governments. The bill lost its harshest provisions, including the death penalty.
 In February, after some apparent hesitation, Yoweri Museveni, Uganda's long-standing president, signed the bill into law. He accused Uganda's critics of acting like latter-day colonialists seeking to impose their values on Africa.
<div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_right"><div><div class="image on-image"></div></div></div>Similar rhetoric had been heard two months earlier when Goodluck Jonathan, the president of Nigeria, signed a bill outlawing displays of same-sex affection, banning groups devoted to gay people's rights and introducing 14-year prison sentences for anyone entering into a gay marriage or other contractual union.
As in Uganda and Gambia, Nigeria already had a law on the books prohibiting gay sex. To the extent that Nigerian gay activists had a legislative agenda, it did not include gay marriage. The UN human-rights chief said of the Nigerian bill that she had rarely seen a law that "in so few paragraphs directly violates so many basic, universal human rights."
Russia has also been targeting gay people. In 2012 Vitaly Milonov, a legislator in St Petersburg, spearheaded the city's adoption of a law banning homosexual "propaganda" to minors. In June 2013 the Duma passed its own version, making "propaganda" about "non-traditional sexual relationships" a crime. Russia's president, Vladimir Putin, finds gay-bashing politically appealing. It runs together various favoured themes: that the West is a corrupting influence best rejected; that tolerance and liberalism are alien to traditional Russian values; that the Orthodox church should be given a more prominent role.
<div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"></div></div></div>
<keyword id="6358883" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Politics">Politics</keyword> also drove Mr Museveni's decision to sign Uganda's Anti-Homosexuality Act. Mr Museveni is a wily operator who has occupied the presidency since 1986; he had not previously found it necessary to tighten Uganda's anti-gay provisions. But facing a re-election bid in 2016, he chose to ride the homophobic wave his allies in parliament had created for their own purposes.
Mr Jonathan, meanwhile, is up for re-election next year and has encountered a crisis of confidence over his handling of the Islamists of Boko Haram and his poor domestic record; attacking gay people was a distraction, and one that Nigeria's Muslims and Christians, often daggers drawn, would both support.
An enemy within can be handy for all sorts of leaders, and often more or less any old enemy will do. Some leaders' anti-gay language has a conspiratorial tone that feels borrowed from the anti-Semitic diatribes of another time: gay people are portrayed as in thrall to alien values and particularly dangerous to children.
Recent developments in the West also create exotic targets against which divisive leaders can define themselves without taking on any particularly powerful enemy at home. Nigeria's law would surely not have taken its current form had gay marriage not made such remarkable advances in Europe and America.
None of this would work if there were not deep wells of homophobia to draw on. Over 95% of Ugandans and Nigerians disapprove of homosexuality. Four-fifths of Russians say that they have no gay acquaintances (though many may be wrong to say so).
Such numbers say little about the intensity of anti-gay feeling in each country. They are certainly not evidence of a clamour for legislative attacks on homosexuals; activists often point out that gay people in places like Nigeria were able to lead relatively untroubled, if intensely private, lives before they became political targets. But the feelings they represent offer an opportunity for politicians seeking a quick populist win.
Some argue that the colonial provenance of anti-gay laws, in Africa and elsewhere, shows that these feelings have little genuine cultural basis. Imperial British authorities were certainly not slow to impose such laws on the lands they occupied, and they were often imported directly from home; in several former British colonies such provisions are numbered 377 in the legal code, indicating their common source.
Attitudes in some former British colonies in the Caribbean are particularly distressing; in Jamaica vigilantes harass gay people as police look the other way. The prime minister, Portia Simpson-Miller, has defended gay people and pledged a parliamentary vote of conscience on the country's 19th-century "buggery law", although this has not taken place.
<h3>It's a sin</h3>
To see the colonial legacy as the root of the problem, though, is to go too far. It underrates the energy that post-colonial governments have put into keeping these laws on the books, or adding to them. Governments have not been shy about amending other colonial-era laws they see as no longer needed.
A more contemporary and pernicious Western influence is that of conservative American evangelists who export their anti-gay message to places where it may meet more receptive ears, along with money that makes it all the more attractive. In Uganda's case, they appear directly to have influenced the drafting of legislation.
<div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"></div></div></div>
Whether domestic or imported, religion matters. A survey of 39 countries by the Pew Research Centre last year found a strong correlation between a country's tolerance for homosexuality and its religiosity. African and Middle Eastern nations are the least tolerant; in several Muslim countries homosexuality is a capital crime. Russia, a relatively godless place, is an exception to the rule.
So, increasingly, is America, though in the opposite direction; it is more tolerant than its levels of religious belief would predict. The greatest exception along those lines is Brazil, where attitudes are broadly tolerant and, as in Argentina and parts of Mexico, gay marriage is now legal. Homophobic violence, though, remains a problem.
None of the new laws seems to have been vigorously enforced. But the climate of hostility and fear their passage generates can make life unpleasant for gay men and women, and their mere existence presents opportunities for extortion and blackmail. In 2011 David Kato, a prominent Ugandan campaigner for gay people's rights, was murdered after a tabloid newspaper published his picture, along with those of 99 other homosexuals, under the headline "Hang them!" Homophobic attacks rose tenfold in Uganda after the passage of the Anti-Homosexuality Act, according to a local group. Gay people in Nigeria have been set upon by mobs.
<div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_right"><div><div class="image on-image"></div></div></div>The simultaneous advance of gay rights in the developed world and its retreat in some other places throws up difficult dilemmas for the West. When gay people's rights are respected at home it is hard to justify turning a blind eye to hideous abuses abroad, particularly in countries with budgets propped up by foreign aid. Yet shout too loudly and you become vulnerable to Mr Museveni's charge of neo-colonialism--and you may jeopardise the safety of the men and women you seek to help.
 America has taken the most hawkish approach. In 2011 Barack Obama's administration issued a memo formally integrating the promotion of gay people's rights into its diplomacy, including in this the setting of foreign-aid policy. After the Ugandan law was passed America cancelled joint military drills, cut aid and applied travel bans. Some other Western countries followed suit, as did the World Bank. The hard line triggered harsh reactions in some African countries. The European Union has taken a softer approach, finding it more productive to work the phones, exert quiet influence and avoid celebrating victories.
<h3>Domino dancing</h3>
Optimists think that, one way or another, outsiders can make a difference. On August 1st Uganda's Constitutional Court overturned the Anti-Homosexuality Act, ruling that there was no quorum in the parliament when it passed the bill in December 2013. What drove the decision--an unusually quick one, by the court's standards--remains unclear.
Anti-gay campaigners accused Mr Museveni of leaning on the court to overturn the law, a few days before he was due to fly, along with dozens of other African leaders, to Washington for an America-Africa summit. If so, it might well be because he faced pressure. Even before the ruling Mr Museveni had begun to waver; in July his government pleaded that the law had been "misinterpreted" by outsiders.
The technical nature of the court's ruling did not quell activists' jubilation. Campaigners in court cheered and draped themselves in a huge rainbow flag. A few days later a few dozen campaigners held a celebration on the shores of Lake Victoria. Remarkably, local police provided them with an element of security. Some MPs want to introduce a new anti-gay bill into parliament.
Yet this week Mr Museveni appeared to warn against such a move. In a long, eccentric article in a Ugandan news weekly, he suggested that a new law could endanger Uganda's trade relationships because "the homosexual lobby can intimidate potential buyers".
If outside pressure had some effect on Mr Museveni--he says it did not--it does not mean it will work more widely. Long a "donor darling", and more recently a military partner of the United States, Uganda has strong links with Western governments. European and American officials were in constant contact with Mr Museveni's government behind the scenes after the law was passed; the public pressure brought to bear on Uganda was only half the story.
Nigeria, a far larger economy with less dependence on aid, is a different case. And as for Russia, Western attacks only play into Mr Putin's hands. Campaigners found it more useful to run a celebrity-led pro-gay campaign around the Sochi Winter Olympics earlier this year than to attack the country's laws head-on.
Moreover, says Kevin Watkins, head of the Overseas Development Institute, a London-based think-tank, even in countries that do receive aid, "conditionality"--tying funds to particular policies--tends not to work. He and others point out that advancing gay people's rights has always been a domestic civil-rights phenomenon. Rather than withholding aid, they argue, better for Westerners to support grassroots organisations which agitate for change.
<div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"></div></div></div>
<h3>Left to their own devices</h3>
Well-known international human-rights groups devote as much attention to the quiet cultivation of links with local activists as they do to public denunciations of laws they disagree with. The advance of democracy can help insofar as it creates space for civil-society groups and strengthens independent institutions like judiciaries; but democracy can also facilitate demagoguery. One observer points out that anti-gay bills have failed to get far in Ethiopia and Rwanda, two authoritarian states, while becoming law in the messy semi-democracies of Nigeria and Uganda.
Westerners can help in other ways, too. Asylum courts have not always taken the most enlightened approach to applications from gay people. In recent years European and British judges have ruled that sexual orientation may be considered a ground for asylum if the applicant can demonstrate a convincing fear of persecution. This is not always easy in countries where suppressing one's sexuality may be the only way to guarantee personal safety.
The other way in which people in the West might make a difference is available only to a few--gay celebrities who obscure this aspect of their lives. With popular culture ever more global, an increase in the number of openly gay football heroes or Hollywood stars could have an effect.
The dearth of such figures suggests that, for all the progress that has been made in respecting the rights of gay people in the rich world, there is still a worry that in some careers being openly gay will not work. The wells of homophobia on which populist politicians can draw in Africa and elsewhere seem not to have dried up quite as much as people might like to believe.
There are large parts of the world where the rights of gay people are not, at present, a political punchbag. China is not a particularly gay-friendly place; until 1997 homosexuality was illegal, and until 2001 it was officially considered a mental illness.
Yet the issue has not been heavily politicised, and in cities gay life is far easier than it was. A court recently heard a case brought by activists against a clinic that offered "gay-conversion" therapy. In Hunan province a 19-year-old caused a stir when he challenged the provincial authority's decision not to allow him to register an organisation devoted to gay people's rights.
In India the past decade has brought considerable change. The first national magazine for gay people, Pink Pages, was launched in 2009. Gay-pride marches, if not necessarily very large ones, are a common sight in big cities. Bollywood has produced sympathetic films.
Yet even if it is becoming slightly easier among India's elite to be openly gay, almost no one in public life dares declare it. And the legal position for homosexuals is in flux. In July 2009 a high court ruled that the ban on "carnal intercourse against the order of nature" in the penal code violated India's constitution, a ruling which in effect decriminalised gay sex.
In December 2013 two Supreme Court judges overturned the ruling. They said that parliament could pass a law to legalise gay sex; at the moment, that looks unlikely. Other straws in the wind suggest that India's laws could become less gay-friendly. Adoption by gay parents is not banned (adoption rules make no reference to sexuality), but on August 6th the national cabinet reportedly decided to block it, perhaps because of pressure from Hindu nationalist groups.
Across South-East Asia, meanwhile, tolerance varies markedly. Religion is partly behind that: homosexuality is legal in Indonesia except for Aceh, a conservative Muslim state. In Brunei, which has begun to implement a sharia-based penal code, "sodomy" is punishable by stoning to death. Malaysia and Singapore both retain colonial-era prohibitions on sex between men, though with varying degrees of punishment: fines, imprisonment for up to 20 years and whipping in Malaysia; imprisonment for up to two years in Singapore.
<div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"></div></div></div>
Though poor, conservative and the possessor of a shameful record on human rights more generally, Vietnam offers a counter-example. Hanoi, the capital, has hosted gay-pride parades since 2012. Bills to legalise same-sex marriage nearly passed this year in both Vietnam and Thailand, which has long been far more tolerant of transgender people than the West has. Singapore offers an example of another sort. Though gay men remain in a precarious legal position, the country's gay-pride event, Pink Dot, has grown in each of its six years of existence: this June it drew a record crowd of 26,000.
As the South-East Asian experience demonstrates, a country's laws on homosexuality do not always predict the degree of freedom granted to gay men and women. Cameroon has passed no anti-gay legislation in recent years, and has thus largely escaped the opprobrium of Western governments and campaigners. But it prosecutes the laws on its books with particular vigour: arrests have been made on the basis of text messages and clothing choices.
<h3>Love comes quickly</h3>
In most Western countries it was only after other social battles had been won that gay people began to be tolerated and their legal rights secured. And some Westerners have already forgotten how recently those changes came about. Less than 50 years ago gay sex, let alone marriage, was illegal over broad swathes of the now comparatively enlightened world (see map). It was only ten years ago that America's Republicans made use of votes on gay marriage to help them win elections by rousing social conservatives (some Democrats now do the same thing in the opposite direction).
In the end gay people in the developing world will probably win their rights as they did in the West. Civil-society organisations, enlightened political and judicial leadership, and the advance of the liberal idea that the state has no business regulating the harmless activities of adults will all play a role.
Most powerful, though, is likely to be people's discovery that they have perfectly decent gay friends, neighbours, even relatives. The most pernicious thing about institutionalised homophobia and legal repression is that they make this realisation so hard. Once the wall begins to crack, though, it can quickly come tumbling down.
Click <a href="http://www.store.eiu.com">here</a> to subscribe to The Economist

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EXCLUSIVE: Billionaire Kumar Mangalam Birla is surprised by the rebound in infrastructure and construction in India

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India should aim to become world's largest coal exporter: PM at launch of commercial coal mining

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India will have its own stealth combat drones…but in a decade! Sigh