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UPI Users, Take Note! 7 Big Changes You Must Know About

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Digital payments in India are about to get a major upgrade! The Central Government is rolling out new features to make the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) more secure, convenient, and future-ready — with fingerprint and facial recognition authentication set to change how we pay.

Here are the 7 key updates every UPI user should know:

1. No More PINs!

Soon, you won’t need to type your UPI PIN for every transaction. Payments will become PIN-free, verified instead through biometric methods.

2. Fingerprint or Face Unlock for Payments

Just like unlocking your phone, you’ll soon be able to approve UPI payments using your fingerprint or face scan — ensuring faster and safer authentication.

3. Daily Limit of ₹5,000

For added safety, the biometric UPI transactions will have a maximum limit of ₹5,000 per day. The regulator may tweak this limit later.

🔹 4. Reset Your PIN with Face ID

Forgot your UPI PIN? No problem. You’ll soon be able to reset or set a new UPI PIN using Aadhaar-based facial verification right within your UPI app.

🔹 5. Stronger Security with Encryption

Every biometric transaction will be verified by banks using advanced cryptographic checks, making payments simpler, faster, and much more secure.

6. User Consent Is Key

Each time you switch to a new device, you’ll need to re-approve biometric authentication to keep your account safe from misuse.

7. Biometric–PIN Link

If you change or reset your UPI PIN, banks will automatically disable your biometric feature across apps. Also, if there’s no activity for 90 days, your account will be marked inactive — and can only be reactivated with your confirmation.

With the Reserve Bank of India pushing for a revamped UPI framework, this marks a major shift from SMS-based verification to two-factor biometric authentication — a leap toward a more secure digital India.

Kanota Courtyard Diwali Soirée 2.0 Lights Up Jaipur in Regal Style. Watch Up Pics and Videos…

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The Kanota Courtyard Diwali Soirée 2.0 transformed the lawns of Hotel Narain Niwas Palace into a radiant celebration of festivity, fashion, and community spirit. Held on October 8, the evening brought together Jaipur’s creative and cultural circles for an unforgettable Diwali experience under the stars.

Kanota Courtyard Diwali Soirée 2.0 Lights Up Jaipur in Regal Style. Watch Up Pics and Videos...

The soirée featured 13 boutique stores and exclusive festive pop-up showcases, offering a glimpse into Jaipur’s evolving design and lifestyle scene. Guests were treated to soulful live music by Bismillah of Coke Studio fame along with curated cocktails, Tea and gourmet treats in a beautifully lit royal setting.

Kanota Courtyard Diwali Soirée 2.0 Lights Up Jaipur in Regal Style. Watch Up Pics and Videos...

From handcrafted décor to contemporary couture, the event celebrated craftsmanship, creativity, and collaboration capturing the essence of Diwali as a festival of light, joy, and togetherness.

Kanota Courtyard Diwali Soirée 2.0 Lights Up Jaipur in Regal Style. Watch Up Pics and Videos...

The Kanota Courtyard initiative continues to build a vibrant community of designers, artisans, and patrons, creating immersive experiences that blend tradition with modern sensibilities.

Happy Karwa Chauth 2025: 50+ Wishes, Images, Messages & WhatsApp Status to Share with Family and Friends

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Happy Karwa Chauth 2025: Karwa Chauth is a cherished festival, especially in North India, where married women observe a day-long fast for the health, happiness, and longevity of their husbands. This year, Karwa Chauth falls on October 10, 2025, on the Krishna Paksha Chaturthi of the Kartik month.

To help you celebrate this special day, we’ve curated 50+ heartfelt wishes, beautiful messages, images, and WhatsApp status updates that you can share with your wife, husband, or family.

Whether you’re celebrating together or apart, these messages will bring you closer in spirit and love.

Happy Karwa Chauth 2025: 50+ Wishes, Images, Messages & WhatsApp Status to Share with Family and Friends

Romantic Wishes for Your Husband

  1. Wishing you a lifetime of love, happiness, and togetherness. Happy Karwa Chauth!
  2. My love for you grows stronger each day. May this Karwa Chauth bring us closer than ever.
  3. Fasting today, praying for your long life, my love!
  4. To the love of my life—Happy Karwa Chauth!
  5. You make my world brighter. Happy Karwa Chauth to my everything.
  6. Today, I fast for your joy and well-being. Love you endlessly.
  7. You are my forever. Happy Karwa Chauth!
  8. My prayers today are all for you. Stay blessed and happy.
  9. Happy Karwa Chauth to the one who makes every day beautiful.
  10. To my soulmate—may our love shine like the moon tonight!

Sweet & Simple Karwa Chauth Wishes

Happy Karwa Chauth 2025: 50+ Wishes, Images, Messages & WhatsApp Status to Share with Family and Friends
  1. Wishing you joy, love, and prosperity this Karwa Chauth.
  2. May your life be filled with love and laughter.
  3. Celebrating togetherness and blessings—Happy Karwa Chauth!
  4. May the moonlight bring peace and happiness into your life.
  5. Sending warm wishes for a beautiful Karwa Chauth.
  6. May each Karwa Chauth deepen your bond of love.
  7. Love, laughter, and devotion—wishing you all three today!
  8. Happy Karwa Chauth!
  9. May your prayers be answered and your love grow stronger.
  10. Here’s to love, light, and lifelong commitment.

Funny & Heartfelt Messages for WhatsApp & Facebook

  1. Fast today, feast tomorrow! Happy Karwa Chauth!
  2. Surviving this fast just for you—worth every hunger pang!
  3. My love is stronger than this fast. Happy Karwa Chauth!
  4. Waiting for the moonrise just to see your smile.
  5. Karwa Chauth: When hunger meets love!
  6. The moon can wait—but my love for you won’t.
  7. Fasting today, dreaming of laddoos tomorrow.
  8. Empty stomach, full heart. Happy Karwa Chauth!
  9. Wishing all women observing this fast strength and love.
  10. May this Karwa Chauth bring health and happiness to your home.

Wishes for Family & Friends

  1. Happy Karwa Chauth to all! Let’s celebrate love and tradition.
  2. Wishing peace and prosperity to your family today.
  3. May your prayers be answered and your bond grow deeper.
  4. Wishing you a joyful day of devotion and love.
  5. May the moonlight bring happiness and success to your life.
  6. Celebrate the sacred bond of love and marriage.
  7. Wishing you a blessed and meaningful Karwa Chauth.
  8. Happy Karwa Chauth to every couple celebrating together.
  9. May divine blessings surround your home today.
  10. Praying for your long life, love, and laughter always.

WhatsApp & Facebook Status for Karwa Chauth

  1. Fasting for love, faith, and lifelong togetherness.
  2. Happy Karwa Chauth to every strong and devoted woman!
  3. May this Karwa Chauth strengthen your love story.
  4. Here’s to a day of love, rituals, and moonlight magic.
  5. Devotion, tradition, and love—Happy Karwa Chauth!
  6. Celebrating the sacred bond of marriage and prayers.
  7. May your love grow with each passing moonrise.
  8. To every wife who fasts with love—salute and blessings!
  9. Love shines brightest under the Karwa Chauth moon.
  10. May this special day bring you joy, strength, and lasting memories.

Karwa Chauth Rituals: Karwa Chauth rituals include the sargi (pre-dawn meal), day-long fasting without food or water, and a moonrise puja in the evening. Women worship Goddess Parvati and the Moon God (Chandra), seeking blessings for their husband’s long life and prosperity.

A Day Before World Mental Health Day, New York City Takes on Tech Giants Over Teen Mental Health Crisis

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As the world prepares for the World Mental Health Day to be celebrated on October 10, New York City has made a bold statement — taking legal action against some of the biggest social media companies in the world.

In a landmark move, the city has filed a lawsuit against Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat, and TikTok, accusing them of fueling a mental health crisis among children and teenagers. The 327-page complaint, filed in Manhattan federal court, argues that these platforms deliberately designed their apps to keep young users hooked — with devastating effects on mental health, sleep, and safety.

The Case Against Social Media Addiction

According to the complaint, tech giants like Meta, Alphabet, Snap, and ByteDance have built digital ecosystems that “exploit the psychology and neurophysiology of youth”, encouraging compulsive scrolling and comparison for profit.

Statistics from the lawsuit are sobering:

  • Over 77% of New York City high school students spend more than three hours a day on screens.
  • Among girls, the number rises to 82%, with many reporting anxiety, loneliness, and poor sleep as a result.

The city argues that this compulsive use has created what officials call a “public health hazard.” Schools and hospitals, it says, are now forced to bear the costs of managing the fallout — from depression and social withdrawal to dangerous viral trends.

When Online Habits Turn Deadly

The lawsuit links social media directly to a disturbing rise in “subway surfing” — a reckless stunt where teenagers ride atop or cling to the sides of moving trains. Since 2023, at least 16 young New Yorkers have died, including two girls aged just 12 and 13 this month.

City officials say these tragedies are tied to online trends that glorify risk-taking and virality. “Defendants should be held to account for the harms their conduct has inflicted,” the complaint states, arguing that platforms are profiting while families and schools pay the emotional and financial price.

A Broader Battle for Mental Health

New York City joins over 2,000 similar lawsuits filed by U.S. governments, school districts, and parents — all seeking to hold tech companies responsible for the mental health consequences of their platforms.

City Health Commissioner officials have already declared social media a public health emergency, echoing growing global concerns about its impact on young minds. The lawsuit also highlights how constant digital exposure is linked to sleep deprivation, attention issues, and rising rates of teen anxiety and depression.

Balancing Innovation and Well-Being

While Google has denied the allegations, saying YouTube operates as a “streaming service” rather than a social network, most defendants have not commented publicly.

The timing of this lawsuit — just as the world reflects on mental health awareness — is striking. It underscores a critical question: What is the true cost of our digital lives?

World Mental Health Day Reminder

This year’s World Mental Health Day theme focuses on making mental health “a universal human right.” New York City’s lawsuit adds another dimension to that message — calling for corporate accountability, digital responsibility, and a renewed focus on protecting young minds from the silent strain of online addiction.

As conversations around mental health deepen worldwide, this case serves as a wake-up call: safeguarding mental well-being in the digital age is no longer optional — it’s essential.

NPCI Launches Biometric, Wearable Glass Authentication for UPI Payments

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India’s digital payments ecosystem has taken a major leap forward in 2025. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) have jointly launched biometric and wearable glass-based authentication for Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions. This groundbreaking step aims to make digital payments more secure, seamless, and inclusive than ever before.

Biometric Authentication: Fingerprints and Face Unlock for UPI

UPI users can now verify transactions using fingerprints or facial recognition, linked to their Aadhaar and securely stored on their devices.
This means no more entering PINs — authentication happens locally on the user’s phone, ensuring sensitive data never leaves the device.
The result? Faster, more private, and highly secure digital transactions.

Smart Glass Payments: UPI Lite Goes Hands-Free

In another futuristic move, NPCI has introduced UPI Lite for wearable smart glasses. Users can now make small-value payments hands-free — by simply scanning a QR code and confirming with voice commands.
No phone, no PIN, no screen taps — just instant, effortless transactions for daily needs like transport, cafes, or retail shopping.

Multi-Signatory UPI Accounts: Designed for Families and Businesses

NPCI also unveiled a multi-signatory account feature for UPI. This allows joint account holders — such as family members or business partners — to approve payments collectively.
It enhances transparency, control, and accountability, ensuring that every payment is verified by the designated signatories before processing.

Powered by Aadhaar Infrastructure

The biometric UPI system leverages Aadhaar’s fingerprint, iris, and facial data, adding an additional layer of security and authenticity.
It also simplifies onboarding for users without debit cards — they can now register instantly using Aadhaar-based face authentication.

Optional, Flexible, and Highly Secure

Using biometrics is completely optional. Users can choose to stick with traditional PINs or switch to biometric verification.
Each transaction undergoes independent cryptographic verification by issuing banks, ensuring maximum security and reliability.

Driving Inclusion and Ease of Use

This innovation is especially beneficial for senior citizens, rural populations, and first-time digital users who may struggle with PIN-based systems.
By simplifying digital payments, NPCI and RBI are moving closer to India’s vision of a cashless, inclusive economy — where technology bridges, not widens, the accessibility gap.

What’s Next for Biometric UPI

The roadmap ahead includes enabling biometric verification for UPI PIN setup, PIN reset, and ATM withdrawals.
This will further integrate UPI into everyday banking, offering a frictionless, future-ready financial experience for millions of users.

EU Rolls Out High-Tech Biometric Entry-Exit System — Here’s How It Will Change Travel

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A new era of travel has begun in Europe. The European Union (EU) has officially launched its biometric Entry/Exit System (EES), replacing the old passport stamping method with a smart digital system. From now on, every non-EU traveller — including British citizens — will be registered electronically when crossing Schengen borders.

The system is being rolled out in stages across all Schengen Area countries and is expected to be fully operational by April 10, 2026.

What Is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?

Think of the EES as Europe’s digital border diary. It records every traveller’s entry and exit with a combination of biometric data — fingerprints and facial recognition — linked directly to their passport.

The goal? To make travel faster, safer, and smarter while helping the EU combat illegal migration, identity fraud, and overstays.

How It Works

On your first visit to the Schengen zone after the rollout, you’ll scan your passport, register fingerprints, and take a quick facial scan.

  • Children under 12 only need a photo.
  • On future trips, a facial scan alone will verify your identity.
  • No extra fee is required for registration.

The system automatically checks how long you’ve stayed — ensuring you don’t exceed the 90 days in 180 rule for non-EU visitors.

Where You’ll Encounter It

EES checks will happen at airports, seaports, train stations, and road crossings across the Schengen zone.

For UK travellers, the new system begins at Port of Dover, Eurotunnel in Folkestone, and Eurostar at London St Pancras, where French border officials will handle the process. Once you’re registered on departure, you won’t need to repeat it on arrival.

Will It Slow Down Travel?

Officials expect only minor delays as the new system phases in. However, longer queues could occur during early months and peak travel seasons like Easter or summer 2026. The EU has given border officers the power to pause checks temporarily if lines grow too long.

Freight and coach traffic have already begun trials, with car passengers and Eurostar travellers joining next. The UK government has advised travellers to allow extra time during the transition period.

What’s Next – ETIAS Travel Authorisation

The EES is just the beginning. By late 2026, the EU plans to introduce ETIAS — a digital travel authorisation system similar to the U.S. ESTA.
Non-EU visitors will need to apply online, provide travel details, and pay a €20 fee. The authorisation will last three years or until your passport expires.

Meanwhile, the UK has already launched its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for European travellers visiting Britain since April 2025.

The Bottom Line

The EU’s new biometric Entry/Exit System marks a major leap in how borders are managed — bringing technology, transparency, and tighter security to European travel. It may take some getting used to, but once fully implemented, it promises smoother journeys and a smarter border experience for millions of travellers.

Nine British Universities to Open Campuses in India, Announces PM Starmer in India

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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced in Mumbai that nine UK universities will soon open campuses in India. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the move, saying that bilateral relations have advanced under Starmer’s leadership.

During Modi’s visit to London in July this year, India and the UK signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). Modi said the agreement would ease imports, boost trade, and create employment opportunities for youth in both countries.

Nine British Universities to Open Campuses in India, Announces PM Starmer in India

The two leaders also discussed key global and regional issues, including the Indo-Pacific, West Asia, and the conflict in Ukraine. In a significant development in defense cooperation, India and the UK signed a military training agreement, under which Indian Air Force flying instructors will now serve as trainers with the British Royal Air Force.

Speaking on the importance of educational ties, India PM Narendra Modi said:

“It is a matter of great joy that nine UK universities are going to open campuses in India. The Gurugram campus of the University of Southampton was recently inaugurated, and the first group of students has already enrolled.”

Prime Minister Starmer highlighted the demand for quality education in India:

“There is a huge demand for good quality higher education. Therefore, I’m delighted to announce that more British universities will establish campuses in India, bringing world-class education closer to Indian students.”

He added that this visit includes the largest and most influential education delegation from the UK to India to date.

Bollywood-UK Film Agreement Signed

Reflecting on his visit to Mumbai’s Yash Raj Studios, PM Starmer announced a new agreement to facilitate Bollywood film production in the UK.

“Yesterday was a wonderful visit to Yash Raj Studios. We are announcing an agreement to make Bollywood films in the UK. India’s youth will be instrumental in achieving the vision for 2047.”

UK-India to Deepen Tech and Defense Ties

At a press briefing earlier in the day, Starmer said:

“We will join forces in AI, communications, and defense technology. The UK and India are global leaders in innovation, and we’ve strengthened our partnership through the Technology and Security Initiative.”

The initiative includes new commitments in artificial intelligence (AI), advanced communications, defense technologies, and other high-tech sectors.

“We Want to Be Partners in India’s Growth” – Starmer

Speaking from Mumbai, Starmer praised India’s economic trajectory and leadership:

“It’s significant that we’re meeting in Mumbai, India’s economic and financial capital. India’s growth story is remarkable, and I want to congratulate Prime Minister Modi on his vision and leadership.”

He added:

“India aims to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2028 and a fully developed nation by 2047. Everything I’ve seen on this visit reinforces that this vision is within reach.”

Emphasizing the UK’s commitment, Starmer noted:

“We want to be partners in this journey. That’s why I’ve brought a record 126 British businesses to India this week. As we depart tonight, I’m hopeful we’ll secure major investments that will generate thousands of skilled jobs in future industries across both nations.”

Chandigarh, Once Known as India’s Best Planned City, Now Becomes India’s First Slum-Free City

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Chandigarh has created history by becoming India’s first slum-free city after successfully clearing its last remaining slum, Shahpur Colony. This milestone marks a major step forward in the country’s mission toward inclusive urban development and better housing for all.

Long recognized as one of India’s best-planned cities, Chandigarh still had pockets where thousands lived in challenging conditions. With the rehabilitation of Shahpur Colony residents, the city has now ensured that these families have access to proper housing and improved living standards.

What makes this transformation truly commendable is its human-centered approach. Instead of just removing slums, the administration focused on dignified resettlement—providing families with new homes equipped with essential amenities such as clean water, electricity, and sanitation. Many residents have also benefited from skill development and livelihood programs, enabling them to build more stable futures.

This achievement highlights what’s possible when urban planning meets compassion. Chandigarh’s model serves as an inspiring example for other Indian cities, showing that modernization can go hand in hand with empathy. It also aligns with India’s national goal of “Housing for All”, ensuring that growth and progress touch every section of society.

For Chandigarh’s residents, this step represents more than just cleaner surroundings—it brings security, dignity, and pride in their city. A truly proud moment for Chandigarh, and a model worth replicating across India.

Spiti: India’s First Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve

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Spiti: Know why UNESCO declared this Himalayan wonder a global ecological treasure

Himachal Pradesh’s breathtaking Spiti Valley has etched its name in history — becoming India’s first Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve, officially recognized by UNESCO in September 2025.

Spread across 7,770 sq. km in the Trans-Himalayan region, this high-altitude desert — perched between 3,300 and 6,600 meters above sea level — is as extreme as it is enchanting. Despite freezing temperatures, arid winds, and minimal vegetation, Spiti thrives as one of the most unique ecosystems on Earth.

The Harsh Beauty of a Cold Desert

Spiti’s rugged landscape may appear barren, but it’s bursting with life uniquely adapted to its icy terrain. The valley shelters snow leopards, Himalayan blue sheep (bharal), and golden eagles, among other rare species that survive in sub-zero conditions.

Equally inspiring are the indigenous Himalayan communities who have lived here for centuries — preserving a deep bond with nature through traditional farming, architecture, and water-management practices. Their resilience and eco-friendly way of life are central to Spiti’s identity.

UNESCO’s Global Recognition

The UNESCO designation was announced during the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme meeting in Hangzhou, China. With this honour, Spiti joins 12 other Indian biosphere reserves and more than 700 sites worldwide committed to sustainable coexistence between humans and nature.

This recognition will boost conservation research, eco-tourism, and global partnerships, positioning Spiti as a model for balancing biodiversity with traditional livelihoods.

Zones of the Spiti Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve

The biosphere reserve is divided into three distinct zones for preservation and sustainable development:

  • Core Zone (2,665 sq. km): Includes Pin Valley National Park and Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, where conservation is paramount.
  • Buffer Zone (3,977 sq. km): Limited human activity permitted under strict ecological guidelines.
  • Transition Zone (1,128 sq. km): Focused on sustainable tourism, handicrafts, and community-based livelihoods.

A Balance Between Nature and Humanity

Spiti’s recognition as India’s first Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve is not just about protecting landscapes — it’s about celebrating coexistence. The valley stands as a symbol of how traditional wisdom, when aligned with global conservation goals, can preserve one of Earth’s most fragile ecosystems for generations to come.

New York: The City Buzzing With Billionaires

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Despite high living costs and safety concerns, New York City continues to reign supreme as the world’s richest city — a glittering magnet for the ultra-wealthy. Whether it’s Wall Street’s financial dominance, luxury real estate, or unmatched cultural influence, New York remains the global capital of wealth.

According to Henley & Partners, the city is home to a staggering 3,84,500 millionaires, 818 centi-millionaires, and 66 billionaires — each contributing to the dazzling skyline and unmatched energy of NYC.

At the heart of this prosperity lies Wall Street, the nerve centre of the global financial world, hosting the New York Stock Exchange and NASDAQ — the two largest stock exchanges worldwide. Add to that the city’s booming real estate, world-class fashion scene featuring brands like Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein, and a constant influx of global talent — and you have the perfect recipe for enduring affluence.

New York: The City Buzzing With Billionaires

Emerging Billionaire Cities Around the Globe

While New York continues to dominate, other global powerhouses are fast climbing the ladder of luxury and influence.

Bay Area (USA)

With Silicon Valley’s innovation culture and a tech-driven boom, the Bay Area has witnessed a 98% increase in wealth over the past decade. It now boasts 3,05,700 millionaires, thanks to giants like Apple, Google, and Meta reshaping the global economy.

Tokyo (Japan)

Asia’s richest and safest city, Tokyo, is home to 2,98,300 millionaires. Its economic stability, technological leadership, and strong corporate base make it a consistent global contender.

Singapore

Known for its safety, pro-business policies, and tax incentives, Singapore has become a magnet for global investors. The city-state now has 2,44,800 millionaires and 30 billionaires — making it Asia’s rising wealth hub.

Los Angeles (USA)

From tech to Tinseltown, Los Angeles shines bright with 2,12,100 millionaires, 516 centi-millionaires, and 43 billionaires. Its booming entertainment industry, luxury real estate, and creative economy keep wealth flowing.

Other Wealth Powerhouses

  • London – 2,27,000 millionaires | Global centre for international business
  • Paris – 1,65,000 millionaires | Europe’s style and culture capital
  • Hong Kong – 1,54,900 millionaires | Investor haven with a tax-friendly system
  • Sydney – 1,52,900 millionaires | Australia’s financial hub with world-class infrastructure
  • Chicago – 1,27,100 millionaires | Strong in manufacturing, healthcare, and innovation

The Race to Top

From Silicon Valley’s innovation to Singapore’s stability, every city is redefining what it means to be “rich.” Yet, New York continues to lead — not just with numbers, but with the spirit of ambition, resilience, and reinvention that defines true wealth.

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