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June 29, 2007: The iPhone Launch That Changed Everything

By
Udit Sharma
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June 29, 2007: The iPhone Launch That Changed Everything

Apple’s first-generation iPhone debuted in the U.S. on June 29, 2007, introducing a sleek 3.5‑inch touchscreen and a revolutionary software interface under Steve Jobs’ mantra: “Today, Apple is going to reinvent the phone”. Combining an iPod, a phone, and an internet communicator, it integrated features like Safari, email, iTunes, Maps, and visual voicemail.

Immediate Impact & Early Sales

Swiftly becoming a cultural phenomenon, demand surpassed supply—enthusiasts camped outside Apple and AT&T stores, where iPhones sold out by midnight, with two-device limits per customer. It took 74 days to reach 1 million sales, compared to nearly two years for the iPod. By June 2008, Apple had moved over 6 million iPhones.

Evolution & Innovation

  • iPhone 3G (2008): Introduced 3G connectivity and launched the App Store with 500 apps, igniting a thriving app ecosystem.
  • iPhone 3GS (2009): Added video recording capabilities and a 3.2 MP camera.
  • iPhone 4 (2010): Debuted the Retina display, FaceTime, and a stainless-glass design.
  • iPhone 4S (2011): Introduced Siri and an 8 MP camera.
  • 2012–2017 models: Expanded features including LTE, Touch ID (2013), larger screens in 6/6 Plus (2014), headphone jack removal (7), wireless charging (8), and a dramatic redesign with Face ID and OLED in the iPhone X (2017).

Market Influence & Financial Growth

The iPhone transformed Apple into a global powerhouse. In 2024, Apple reported $390.8 billion in revenue, with iPhones representing 51% of sales and a 17% share of the global smartphone market. Apple’s stock surged from $17.43 at the launch to over $200 by 2025, significantly driven by consistent iPhone performance.

Global Reach & Legacy

With over 2.3 billion iPhones sold since launch, Apple’s product reshaped mobile tech and inspired Android competitors. Despite early criticisms – like its high launch cost and limited features – the iPhone’s foundational software-led design remains unmatched.

A Device That Defined an Era

From its debut in 2007, the iPhone catalyzed a seismic shift in technology and consumer expectations. What began as a beautifully engineered device transformed into a global platform powered by the App Store, perpetual hardware upgrades, and services like Siri, FaceTime, and iMessage. Today, the iPhone sits at the heart of Apple’s ecosystem, fueling unparalleled financial success and shaping the future of mobile innovation.

Parag Jain: From Conflict Zones to RAW Chief – A Closer Look at His Journey and Operation Sindoor

By
Udit Sharma
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0

Parag Jain, a 1989-batch IPS officer from the Punjab cadre, has been appointed as the new Chief of the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), India’s premier external intelligence agency. His two-year term begins on July 1, 2025, succeeding Ravi Sinha .

Early Career & Foundation

Jain began his career amid the turbulence of 1990s Punjab, serving in critical roles in Bathinda, Mansa, and Hoshiarpur, and later as SSP Chandigarh and DIG Ludhiana . He was promoted to DGP-equivalent rank in January 2021, reflecting early recognition of his leadership and national security value .

International and J&K Deployments

Parag Jain also represented India abroad, working in Canada and Sri Lanka, where he contributed to countering Khalistani separatists and expanding diplomatic ties. Domestically, he was involved in counter-terror operations in Jammu & Kashmir, particularly around the abrogation of Article 370 and subsequent operations .

Heading the Aviation Research Centre & Operation Sindoor

Before his RAW appointment, Jain led the Aviation Research Centre (ARC), a vital intelligence unit under the Cabinet Secretariat. ARC was instrumental in Operation Sindoor, a coordinated counter-attack following the Pahalgam terrorist assault in April 2025.

Operation Sindoor, executed on May 6–7, 2025, involved precise strikes using missiles and drones on terror launch pads in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. ARC under Jain provided crucial real-time intelligence on Pakistani military and terror assets, enabling surgical action.

Leadership Through Jointness

Operation Sindoor’s success was attributed to a high degree of inter-service jointness, leveraging coordination across intelligence, cyber, space, and military domains. Jain’s role in intelligence fusion with agencies like NTRO and DIA was central to this success, making him a strategic asset for modern hybrid warfare planning.

What’s Next?

In a period marked by evolving geopolitical dynamics and escalation of cross-border threats from Pakistan – including heightened terror risks and infrastructure strain – Jain takes charge of RAW at a pivotal juncture. His blend of field experience, diplomatic engagements, and intelligence operations positions him well to lead India’s external intelligence community.

A Strategic Shift for RAW

Parag Jain’s elevation to RAW chief symbolizes a strategic pivot. With deep roots in counter-insurgency during the tumultuous 1990s in Punjab and extensive postings in Canada, Sri Lanka, and Jammu & Kashmir, Jain brings a rare blend of operational expertise and geopolitical insight. More importantly, his leadership of the Aviation Research Centre and pivotal role in Operation Sindoor have demonstrated his capability to drive precise, technology-driven intelligence operations – an invaluable asset amid escalating regional tensions.

As global and regional threats intensify, Jain’s tenure, beginning July 1, 2025, comes at a crucial juncture. His success in cultivating integrated capabilities across military, cyber, and intelligence domains marks him as the right choice to steer RAW forward. Under his stewardship, India’s external intelligence apparatus is poised to evolve, embracing a dynamic, tech-savvy, and strategic future.

Kolhapuri Sandals: Ancient Heritage Meets Modern Controversy

By
Udit Sharma
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0

Kolhapuri sandals, known for their distinctive T-strap and braided leather design, trace their origins back to at least the 12th century in the Kolhapur region of Maharashtra, India. Initially created under the patronage of local rulers like King Bijjala and his adviser Basavanna, they’re traditionally handcrafted by cobblers using buffalo or cowhide, tanned with vegetable dyes. These durable, artisan-made sandals are often heavy and built to endure tough terrains, reflecting generations of regional craftsmanship.

Over centuries, figures like Chhatrapati Shahu and Rajaram II actively supported the craft, establishing tanning centers and boosting production across Maharashtra and Karnataka. Each pair, shaped entirely by hand, can take up to six weeks to complete. Though mostly utilitarian and priced between ₹300–₹1,500 in local markets, modern variants now incorporate decorative elements like gota, zari, braiding, and pom-poms, making them suitable for weddings and global fashionistas.

Maharashtra’s Pride Goes Global – and Sparks Controversy

In June 2025, luxury fashion house Prada debuted sandals strikingly similar to Kolhapuris during Milan Fashion Week. Initially labeled as “leather sandals,” they were styled with shorts and track pants, priced around ₹1.2 lakh (€1,200, ~$844). The design closely mirrored traditional artisans’ work, igniting worldwide social media backlash over cultural appropriation and luxury profiteering at the expense of Indian heritage.

Public outcry reached a fever pitch: netizens called it “shameless cash grab” and “cultural theft” – especially since original chappals cost under ₹1,500. Politicians and artisans from Kolhapur demanded recognition, fair compensation, and legal action to uphold the product’s Geographical Indication (GI) status, which it received in 2019.

In response to the uproar, Lorenzo Bertelli, Prada’s CSR head, issued a letter acknowledging the inspiration from Indian handcrafted footwear. He expressed openness to dialogue and proposed collaboration with artisan communities via the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce. However, artisans argue that recognition alone isn’t enough; they want legal safeguards, sustainable partnerships, and financial benefits to protect their craft from exploitation .

Where Do We Go from Here?

This controversy is more than a fashion kerfuffle – it’s a pivotal moment highlighting the tension between cultural appreciation and appropriation. It underscores the need for global fashion brands to ethically source inspiration and respect the origins of traditional designs. As Indian artisans advocate for patent protections, GI enforcement, and collaborative ventures, this incident could serve as a catalyst for establishing equitable models in the fashion industry .

Kolhapuri sandals are not just footwear – they’re a testament to centuries of craftsmanship, cultural identity, and regional pride. As they step onto global runways, let’s ensure that recognition, remuneration, and respect walk alongside them.

India’s Forgotten Marvels: Where Rivers Rise and Empires Prayed, The Kalchuri Temples of Amarkantak Await Your Journey

By
Anjali Solanki
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0

Tucked in the tranquil folds of the Vindhya and Satpura ranges, where the sacred Narmada River takes her first breath, lies a cluster of temples that seem less built and more conjured—etched into time by devotion and dynastic pride. This is the Kalchuri Group of Temples in Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh—a spiritual and architectural marvel that has withstood centuries of sun, storm, and silence.

A Dynasty’s Devotion: The Kalchuri Legacy

The Kalchuri dynasty, particularly under the reign of King Lakshmikarna (1041–1073 CE), commissioned these temples as a testament to their piety and power. Built between the 10th and 13th centuries, the temples reflect the dynasty’s deep-rooted reverence for Shaivism and Vaishnavism, and their mastery over the Nagara style of temple architecture.These temples were not merely places of worship—they were statements of sovereignty, sanctity, and sophisticated design. Today, they are protected monuments under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), lovingly preserved amidst manicured lawns and the rustle of sal trees.

India’s Forgotten Marvels: Where Rivers Rise and Empires Prayed, The Kalchuri Temples of Amarkantak Await Your Journey

The Crown Jewels of Kalchuri Architecture

The temple complex comprises six major shrines and a sacred tank known as Suraj Kund. Each structure tells its own tale:

  • Karna Temple (Trimukhi Temple): The largest and most prominent, this temple stands on a raised platform with three sanctums dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Jogila Devi. Its towering shikhara and intricate carvings are a masterclass in symmetry and symbolism.
  • Machendranatha Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this 11th-century shrine features a sanctum, vestibule, and mandapa supported by ornate pillars. The sukhanasi (vestibule tower) bears a lion motif, symbolizing strength and divine guardianship.
  • Pataleshwar Temple: Said to house a Shiva Linga installed by Adi Shankaracharya himself, this temple blends spiritual lore with Kalchuri craftsmanship. Its pyramidal mandapa and Pancha Ratha-style sanctum are architectural rarities.
  • Keshava Narayan Temple: A later addition by the Bhonsle rulers in the 18th century, this Vishnu temple dazzles with its Nagara-style shikhara and twin sanctums connected by a common mandapa.
  • Panch Math and Johila Temple: These structures, built in the 15th century by Gond rulers, showcase five distinct architectural styles—each a tribute to the evolving spiritual landscape of central India.
India’s Forgotten Marvels: Where Rivers Rise and Empires Prayed, The Kalchuri Temples of Amarkantak Await Your Journey

Where Myth Meets Mortar

Legend has it that the Kalchuri kings chose Amarkantak not just for its strategic location, but for its spiritual magnetism. The confluence of rivers, the dense forests, and the aura of ancient sages made it a natural seat of sanctity. The temples were aligned with celestial patterns, their sanctums designed to echo chants and amplify silence.

Even today, as the sun casts golden shadows across the moss-covered stones, one can almost hear the hymns that once rose from these mandapas—a chorus of faith carved in stone.

India’s Forgotten Marvels: Where Rivers Rise and Empires Prayed, The Kalchuri Temples of Amarkantak Await Your Journey

The Art That Breathes Through Paper: Exploring Gwalior and Ujjain’s Craft Heritage

By
Anjali Solanki
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0

In the quiet corners of Gwalior and Ujjain, where history breathes through sandstone walls and temple bells echo through time, a delicate craft continues to thrive—paper-mache, the art of transforming humble paper pulp into vibrant expressions of culture and creativity.

Origins Rooted in Antiquity

The story of paper-mâché begins not in one place, but across civilizations. Ancient Egypt used a form of it called cartonnage to craft funerary masks and sacred objects. In China, artisans molded paper pulp into helmets and ceremonial items as early as the Han dynasty. Persia and Kashmir soon followed, refining the technique into a decorative art form that adorned everything from boxes to wall panels.

By the 18th century, Europe embraced paper-mâché as a cost-effective alternative to wood and metal. England and France saw a golden age of this craft, where it was used to create ornate furniture, trays, and even architectural elements.

The Art That Breathes Through Paper: Exploring Gwalior and Ujjain’s Craft Heritage

The Indian Touch: A Cultural Canvas

India’s tryst with paper-mâché is both artistic and spiritual. In Kashmir, it evolved into a fine art, often used to decorate religious artifacts and household items. But in Madhya Pradesh—particularly in Gwalior and Ujjain—the craft took on a more regional flavor. Here, artisans blend Plaster of Paris, chalk, and adhesive with paper pulp to create lightweight yet intricate forms, often painted in vivid hues that reflect local traditions and festivals.

These creations are more than decorative—they are echoes of heritage, passed down through generations, each piece telling a story of resilience, patience, and imagination.

Why It Still Matters

  • Sustainability: Made from recycled paper, this craft champions eco-conscious creativity.
  • Cultural Identity: It preserves regional aesthetics and traditional techniques.
  • Economic Empowerment: It provides livelihoods to rural artisans, especially women.
  • Artistic Expression: From home décor to festival masks, it offers endless possibilities for innovation.

A Living Legacy

Today, paper-mâché is not just a nostalgic nod to the past—it’s a living, breathing art form. Contemporary artists are reimagining it in installations, fashion, and even architecture. In a world racing toward the digital, this tactile, soulful craft reminds us of the beauty in slowness, in imperfection, and in the handmade.

Celebrating International LGBT Pride Day: Honoring the Legacy of Stonewall and the Fight for Equalit

By
Anjali Solanki
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0

A Day of Pride and Solidarity

Every year on June 28, the world comes together to celebrate International LGBT* Pride Day, a powerful reminder of the resilience, courage, and ongoing struggle of the LGBTQ+ community. This day marks the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots of 1969, a pivotal moment that ignited the modern global movement for LGBTQ+ rights. It’s a time to honor the community’s journey, celebrate their achievements, and advocate for greater acceptance, equality, and recognition in society.

A Turning Point for LGBTQ+ Rights

On June 28, 1969, a routine police raid on the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City, sparked spontaneous protests and resistance from the patrons and supporters. These events, known as the Stonewall Riots, became a defining moment in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. The riots symbolized the community’s refusal to tolerate systemic oppression and discrimination, laying the foundation for the global LGBTQ+ rights movement. A year later, on June 28, 1970, the first Pride Parade was held in New York City, marking the birth of Pride as a global celebration of identity and resistance.

Global Progress in LGBTQ+ Rights

Since the Stonewall Riots, the fight for equality has made significant strides worldwide. Many countries have enacted laws to protect the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, including legalizing same-sex marriage, granting adoption rights, and implementing anti-discrimination policies. The United Nations’ Free & Equal Campaign plays a crucial role in promoting LGBTQ+ rights globally, advocating for decriminalization, equal treatment, and social acceptance. Despite these advancements, challenges such as societal stigma, legal barriers, and violence against the community persist, making Pride celebrations a vital platform for advocacy and visibility.

LGBTQ+ Rights in India

In India, the LGBTQ+ community has witnessed significant legal and social progress in recent years. Key milestones include:
Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019: This landmark legislation grants legal recognition to transgender individuals and provides protections against discrimination, ensuring their right to dignity and equality.

NALSA vs. Union of India (2014): The Supreme Court of India recognized transgender individuals as a third gender, mandating reservations and welfare schemes to uplift the community.

Madras High Court Ruling (2021): The court directed the inclusion of LGBTQ+ topics in educational curricula and emphasized sensitivity training for police personnel to foster inclusivity and reduce discrimination. These legal victories, combined with growing societal awareness, have strengthened the fight for equality in India. Organizations like the Naz Foundation, Humsafar Trust, and Queerala continue to champion social change through advocacy, community support, and awareness campaigns.

Pride Parades in India: A Celebration of Identity

Pride Parades have become a vibrant tradition in India, with cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru hosting annual marches that celebrate diversity and demand equality. These events bring together thousands of individuals from the LGBTQ+ community and their allies, creating spaces for self-expression, solidarity, and activism. The colorful parades, adorned with rainbow flags, music, and messages of love, serve as a powerful reminder of the community’s resilience and the ongoing need for acceptance.

Challenges and the Path Forward

While progress has been made, the LGBTQ+ community continues to face challenges, including social stigma, workplace discrimination, and lack of comprehensive legal protections in many regions. Education, awareness, and policy reforms remain critical to fostering a more inclusive society. By amplifying marginalized voices, challenging stereotypes, and promoting dialogue, we can build a world where everyone is free to live authentically.

Pride as a Call to Action

International LGBT* Pride Day is more than a celebration—it’s a call to action. It reminds us to honor the legacy of the Stonewall Riots, recognize the achievements of the LGBTQ+ community, and continue the fight for equality and justice. As we wave the rainbow flag, let us commit to creating a world where love, identity, and dignity are universally respected. Through collective efforts, advocacy, and allyship, we can ensure that Pride remains a beacon of hope and progress for generations to come.

Legal Battles Over AI and Copyright Issues

By
EBNW Story
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0

Recent developments in the United States show the ongoing legal conflicts between artificial intelligence companies and copyright holders. A federal judge ruled that Anthropic’s use of copyrighted books for training its AI system was protected under fair use. However, the company was found in breach of copyright law for storing pirated copies of millions of titles. This case exemplifies the complex landscape of copyright law as it applies to AI technology.

Fair Use Doctrine in AI Training

The fair use doctrine allows limited use of copyrighted material without permission. In the context of AI, courts assess whether the use is transformative. Anthropic’s case demonstrated this principle. The judge deemed its training method “exceedingly transformative.” This indicates that the AI’s purpose was to create new content rather than replicate existing works.

Copyright Infringement and Storage of Pirated Material

While the training of AI models may qualify as fair use, the storage of pirated works does not. Anthropic’s central library containing over seven million pirated books was ruled as copyright infringement. This distinction is critical in understanding the limits of fair use. The ruling suggests that even transformative use must not involve unlawful storage of copyrighted materials.

Meta’s Legal Victory

In a similar case, Meta successfully defended its use of books by 13 authors for training its AI models. The court ruled that Meta’s actions fell under fair use. The decision was influenced by the lack of evidence showing financial harm to the authors. This ruling may set a precedent for future cases involving AI and copyright.

Bihar To Get Its First Nuclear Power Plant

By
EBNW Story
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0

Bihar is set to become one of the first states in India to establish a nuclear power plant. This initiative is part of the country’s new Nuclear Energy Mission. This decision is as it comes ahead of the assembly elections in Bihar.

Nuclear Energy Mission

The Nuclear Energy Mission aims to expand clean and reliable nuclear power across India. The government has allocated Rs 20,000 crore for this mission in the Union Budget for 2025-26. The objective is to establish at least one nuclear power plant in every state. This is crucial for ensuring energy security as the demand for electricity continues to rise.

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)

The nuclear plant in Bihar will utilise Small Modular Reactor technology. SMRs are designed to be more flexible and cost-effective compared to traditional reactors. They can be deployed in smaller grids and are considered safer due to their advanced design. This technology represents the future of nuclear energy, focusing on sustainability and reliability.

Impact

Bihar has historically faced challenges in power supply and infrastructure. The establishment of a nuclear plant is expected to provide a more stable electricity supply. This development aligns with the state’s industrial ambitions and aims to reduce power deficits .


Salkhan Fossil Park Gives Sneakpeak into Earth’s Earliest Life. Know More on This World Heritage Site Now in UNESCO’ Tentative List…

By
EBNW Story
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Salkhan Fossil Park, located in the Sonbhadra district of Uttar Pradesh, has recently been included in UNESCO’s Tentative List for World Heritage Sites—a major milestone for the region and for India’s natural heritage. The park is globally significant for its exceptionally well-preserved fossils, some of which date back an astonishing 1.4 billion years. This recognition not only highlights the park’s scientific importance but also boosts Uttar Pradesh’s standing in geological and paleontological tourism.

Geological Significance

At the heart of Salkhan Fossil Park’s importance are its stromatolites—layered sedimentary structures formed by ancient cyanobacteria. These microorganisms were among the first life forms to produce oxygen through photosynthesis, playing a pivotal role in shaping Earth’s early atmosphere and biosphere. Remarkably, the stromatolites at Salkhan are older than those found at globally renowned sites such as Shark Bay in Australia, making it one of the most ancient and insightful records of early life on Earth.

Historical Context

The scientific relevance of the Salkhan region came to light in the 1930s, when initial geological surveys were conducted. However, it was not until 2002 that the site was formally established as a fossil park, following a landmark workshop led by Canadian scientists. Among them, world-renowned geologist H.J. Hoffman lauded the exceptional clarity and preservation of the fossils. These early efforts laid the foundation for continued research and ultimately, the park’s nomination to UNESCO’s Tentative List.

The park is strategically positioned to enhance eco-tourism in Uttar Pradesh. It is located about 12 km from Robertsganj, making it accessible for visitors. The state’s tourism department has focused on promoting the park as a key destination for both scientific research and eco-tourism. Recent initiatives include the introduction of scenic rail routes to connect various tourist sites.

Future Prospects

The preparation of a detailed dossier for UNESCO’s permanent World Heritage status is underway. This dossier will be submitted to the Government of India, with hopes of achieving full recognition within two years. The principal secretary of tourism has emphasised the importance of this recognition for boosting international acclaim and tourism in the state.

Scientific Research

Scientific studies conducted by the Birbal Sahni Institute have confirmed the presence of ancient stromatolites and algae fossils. These findings provide critical vital information about the Earth’s early ecosystems.

R Praggnanandhaa Is India’s Top-Ranked Chess Player After UzChess Cup Win. Know Who He Is and What Are His Credentials….

By
EBNW Story
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Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa has become India’s top-ranked chess player in the live ratings after clinching the UzChess Cup Masters 2025 title in Tashkent on Friday. The 19-year-old’s impressive victory lifted his live rating to 2778.3, propelling him to World No. 4 — his highest career ranking to date.

With this jump, Praggnanandhaa has overtaken both reigning world champion D Gukesh (2776.6) and Arjun Erigaisi (2775.7), who held the top Indian spot until Thursday but has now slipped to World No. 6.

The global rankings continue to be led by Magnus Carlsen (2839.2), followed by Hikaru Nakamura (2807.0) and Fabiano Caruana (2784.2).

This milestone marks a significant moment in Indian chess, as Praggnanandhaa solidifies his place among the world’s elite while still in his teens. Indian Grandmaster (GM) Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa made global headlines in February 2022 when he defeated world number one Magnus Carlsen of Norway in the eighth round of the Airthings Masters rapid online chess tournament. This remarkable win placed the young prodigy firmly on the international chess map.

Born on August 10, 2005, in Tamil Nadu, Praggnanandhaa is among the youngest players to ever achieve the title of Grandmaster. He became the fifth-youngest Grandmaster in history, following Abhimanyu Mishra, Sergey Karjakin, Gukesh D, and Javokhir Sindarov.

Hailing from Chennai, Praggnanandhaa is the younger brother of Vaishali Rameshbabu, herself a celebrated chess player and two-time youth champion. The siblings have made a name for themselves as a formidable duo in Indian chess.

Praggnanandhaa trains rigorously for 4 to 5 hours daily and is coached by renowned chess trainer R.B. Ramesh. He draws inspiration from Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand and Norwegian champion Magnus Carlsen, whom he has already managed to defeat on multiple occasions.

His rise continues to inspire a new generation of Indian chess players, reaffirming India’s growing dominance in the global chess arena.

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