
BOSTON (AP) — Donald Hand Jr. scored 15 of his career-high 29 points in the first half and grabbed 10 rebounds to help Boston College beat Fairleigh Dickinson 78-70 on Saturday. Chad Venning scored a season-high 18 points on 8-of-10 shooting for Boston College (8-5). Ahmed Barba-Bey was fouled on a 3-point shot and made all three free throws before Terrence Brown converted a three-point play to cut FDU’s deficit to five points with 2 minutes left and Barba-Bey’s 3 with 39 seconds left made it 74-70. Hand answered with a layup 10 seconds later and followed with two free throws that capped the scoring with 18 seconds to play. Barba-Bey, a graduate transfer from Division-II Jefferson, hit eight 3-pointers and led Fairleigh Dickinson (4-11) with a career-high 31 points on 10-of-12 shooting. Brown added 20 points and Bismark Nsiah scored 10, all in the second half. Hand hit a 3-pointer that gave Boston College the lead for good with 17:17 left in the first half and scored 13 of the game’s first 24, including a three-point play that gave the Eagles a 17-7 lead with 11:58 left before the intermission. Barba-Bey hit back-to-back 3-pointers to cut FDU’s deficit to four just over a minute later but Boston College scored the next eight points and the Knights got no closer until the second half. Boston College won for just the second time since beating Boise State 63-61 on Joshua Beadle’s late 3-pointer to win the Cayman Islands Classic on Nov. 26 and improve to 6-1. The Knights have lost four games in a row overall and are 0-10 away from home this season. Boston College won the lone previous meeting between the programs 72-54 on Dec. 10, 1992. ___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball Read more NCAA basketball at thestar.com
Clara Strack, Georgia Amoore help No. 16 Kentucky rout Western KentuckyIf you’re approaching retirement or have already stopped working, it may have occurred to you that saving for retirement was the easy part. Most likely, you had contributions to a 401(k) or other employer-provided retirement savings account automatically deducted from your paycheck. Target-date funds , which automatically adjust your investments as you approach retirement, have taken the guesswork (and hopefully the stress) out of investing those contributions. For investments outside of your workplace plan, many brokerage firms have harnessed digital tools to provide low-cost investment advice. (We've evaluated the online services that many major brokers provide .) But once you retire and need to start withdrawing from your nest egg, the task of managing your money becomes more difficult. Fewer than half of retirees say they’ve estimated how much they’ll need to withdraw from their savings and investments to cover their expenses, according to the Employee Benefit Research Institute’s 2024 Retirement Confidence Survey . Subscribe to Kiplinger’s Personal Finance Be a smarter, better informed investor. Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail. Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail. Even if you’ve nailed down the amount of income you’ll need each month to retire comfortably, you’ll have to wrestle with a host of decisions that can’t be put on autopilot, such as which accounts you should tap first , how to lower taxes on your withdrawals and when you should sign up for Social Security . Add to the mix concerns about long-term care, estate planning and charitable giving, and you may start to feel as though managing your savings is a full-time job. With the stakes so high, you’re probably going to want some advice. For many retirees, that means hiring a financial planner . A qualified certified financial planner can manage your portfolio and provide advice on a range of other subjects, from withdrawal rates to legacy planning. To earn the CFP designation, an individual must complete a course of study, pass a rigorous exam, have 6,000 hours of experience related to financial planning and commit to continuing education. In addition, CFPs are required to act as fiduciaries , which means they must put their clients’ interests above their own. Many CFPs provide excellent advice, but their guidance doesn’t come cheap. Compensation structures vary, but a common one is an assets under management (AUM) model , in which the planner bases his or her fees on a percentage of your portfolio. For example, if you have a $1 million portfolio and your planner charges a 1% fee, you would pay the planner $10,000 a year. The percentage typically decreases as your portfolio grows. On average, advisers charge 1.12% per year for a portfolio of $100,000, 1.02% for a portfolio of $1 million and 0.98% for a portfolio of $2 million, according to a 2023 survey by Advisory HQ , a marketing organization. Supporters of this model, a longtime standard for the advisory business, say it gives advisers a strong incentive to perform well, because as your portfolio grows, so does their compensation. Increasingly, though, brokerage and financial services firms such as Charles Schwab, Fidelity Investments, T. Rowe Price and Vanguard are offering financial advice to retirees and preretirees at a lower cost. Depending on the amount you have invested, you may be able to get advice on account-withdrawal rates, taxes, estate planning and more, often from a dedicated financial planner, for a fee of 0.5% or less of assets under management. The firm may limit advisory services to assets it manages — so it may not include your former employer’s 401(k), for example, or a taxable brokerage account you inherited that’s with another brokerage firm. If you’ve accumulated a significant amount of assets with a particular financial services firm, you’ve likely already received promotions for its financial-planning services. Enrolling in one of these programs could give you the confidence to spend money you’ve worked so hard to save. That’s not easy for many retirees: A 2018 survey by the Employee Benefit Research Institute found that retirees with at least $500,000 or more in savings had spent down less than 12% over 20 years. Here are some questions to ask before signing up. How much do I need to have invested to qualify for advisory services? The amount required to be eligible for guidance from a dedicated adviser varies. For example, Schwab Wealth Advisory provides a dedicated financial adviser and personalized wealth-management strategy to clients with $500,000 or more in assets. Through Fidelity Wealth Management Services , you can get a dedicated financial adviser and portfolio management if you have at least $500,000 in assets. T. Rowe Price , a relative newcomer to wealth-advisory services, will provide a dedicated adviser to clients with at least $250,000 in assets. For customers with a minimum of $100,000 in assets, Ally Invest Personal Advice offers a personalized financial plan from a dedicated adviser using portfolios of exchange-traded funds ( ETFs ); Ally will also provide withdrawal strategies for retirement accounts, but it doesn’t offer tax advice. Some firms have expanded services for wealthier clients — typically those with $2 million or more. For example, Vanguard’s Wealth Management program, available to clients with $5 million or more in Vanguard mutual funds and ETFs, provides investment-advisory services, wealth and estate planning, tax strategies, and other services through a dedicated CFP. Fidelity’s Private Wealth Management Services , available to clients with investable assets of at least $10 million — with $2 million or more managed through Fidelity — provides investment management, trust and estate planning, and other services. How much does the service cost? Fees range from 0.3% to more than 1% of assets, typically depending on the amount you have invested and the services provided. Vanguard’s Personal Advisor Select, which provides access to a financial adviser, a customized financial plan and ongoing investment advice to customers with at least $500,000 in Vanguard IRAs, brokerage accounts and trusts, charges 0.3% of assets, or $3,000 a year for an account with $1 million in assets. The fee for Schwab’s Wealth Advisory service starts at 0.8% of assets and decreases at higher asset levels. When considering costs, though, it’s also important to look at the expense ratios imposed by the underlying mutual funds and exchange-traded funds in the firm’s recommended portfolio. Although index funds and ETFs typically have low fees, your adviser may recommend actively traded funds — emerging-markets funds , for example, or small-company stock funds. While these funds may offer the potential for higher returns, they tend to come with higher expense ratios than ETFs and index funds. When inquiring about advisory services, ask whether you’ll qualify for any breaks on fees. T. Rowe Price, for example, caps fees so that its combined investment-advisory service fee and fund expense ratio doesn’t exceed 1%, says Lindsay Theodore , a thought leadership manager at T. Rowe Price. For example, if the client’s portfolio has a weighted average expense ratio that exceeds 0.5%, the advisory service fee of 0.5% will be reduced. And depending on the amount of assets invested in Vanguard funds, participants in Vanguard’s advisory program may be eligible for Admiral class shares, which have an average expense ratio of 0.14%, or institutional shares, which have an average expense ratio of 0.08%. What’s available for free? Before you agree to pay a percentage of your assets, look into what’s offered at no cost. For example, Fidelity’s advisers will help clients create a financial plan that covers everything from withdrawal rates to Social Security claiming strategies for no extra charge, and clients can contact a member of Fidelity’s advisory team at any time to update the plan, says Ryan Viktorin , a CFP and financial consultant for Fidelity. The service is particularly valuable for clients who are retired or approaching retirement, she says. “It can be a mental shift when you get to retirement, and it’s scary for a lot of people,” she says. There’s no investment minimum for this service, but clients with a large amount of assets may qualify for a dedicated financial adviser at no cost, Viktorin says. If you want an adviser to manage your portfolio, however, you’ll have to use one of Fidelity’s paid services. For clients with at least $250,000 in assets, T. Rowe Price provides a complimentary financial plan that includes a recommended portfolio of investments, analysis of Social Security benefits, proposed spending adjustments and a score showing the likelihood they won’t outlive their savings. Schwab clients with at least $1 million in assets are automatically enrolled in Schwab Private Client Services , which provides them with a dedicated consultant who will direct them to resources at Schwab in areas such as income, tax and estate planning. This service is primarily designed for self-directed investors; clients who want ongoing investment management will need to enroll in Schwab’s Wealth Advisory service and pay the fee. In addition, most financial services firms provide a range of tools you can use to estimate income and expenses, analyze your Social Security benefits, determine whether you should convert to a Roth IRA and more. Even if you eventually decide to hire a financial planner, these tools will help you get a handle on your finances and figure out where you need help. Will the advice be comprehensive enough? One of the upsides of paying for advice from your financial services firm is that the firm already knows a lot about you — and you know a lot about it. If you’re comfortable with the company’s customer service and investment offerings, paying for a dedicated financial adviser and other features could make sense. But if the advice is limited to assets you own within the firm, the adviser — or team of advisers — may not have a complete picture of your financial health. Many retirees have multiple retirement, taxable and savings accounts with different banks and brokerage firms. Your net worth may also include life insurance, a pension and home equity, all of which will contribute to your retirement security. While some advisory services “are great for DIY investors who want a little bit of help, it’s not holistic financial advice or planning,” says Pam Krueger , chief executive officer and founder of Wealthramp , which connects investors with vetted, fee-only advisers. Most CFPs will provide a free consultation, which should give you an opportunity to ask about their skills, specializations and fees before you commit to what could be a long-term relationship. You can search for a CFP in your area at the Financial Planning Association’s website . Look for a fee-only planner. These individuals are compensated for giving advice, and they don’t earn commissions by recommending specific products or services. They’re also required to act as fiduciaries, which means they must put your interests above their own. Be wary of any adviser who declines to discuss their fee structures upfront. If you’re paying a percentage of assets under management, you should expect to receive, along with investment advice, help with estate planning, insurance and other aspects of your financial life. If you’re not comfortable paying a percentage of your assets, it’s easier than ever to find CFPs who use different — and possibly less expensive — compensation methods. Some Wealthramp advisers charge by the hour or work on retainer, Krueger says. Planners in the Garrett Planning Network are fee-only CFPs who charge by the hour, typically at hourly rates ranging from $100 to $300. Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here . Related content Get the Invest for Retirement series New to Investing? How to Tell Your CFPs From Your CFAs How to Change Financial Advisers How to Pick the Best Robo Advisor For YouBOSTON (AP) — Donald Hand Jr. scored 15 of his career-high 29 points in the first half and grabbed 10 rebounds to help Boston College beat Fairleigh Dickinson 78-70 on Saturday. Chad Venning scored a season-high 18 points on 8-of-10 shooting for Boston College (8-5). Ahmed Barba-Bey was fouled on a 3-point shot and made all three free throws before Terrence Brown converted a three-point play to cut FDU's deficit to five points with 2 minutes left and Barba-Bey’s 3 with 39 seconds left made it 74-70. Hand answered with a layup 10 seconds later and followed with two free throws that capped the scoring with 18 seconds to play. Barba-Bey, a graduate transfer from Division-II Jefferson, hit eight 3-pointers and led Fairleigh Dickinson (4-11) with a career-high 31 points on 10-of-12 shooting. Brown added 20 points and Bismark Nsiah scored 10, all in the second half. Hand hit a 3-pointer that gave Boston College the lead for good with 17:17 left in the first half and scored 13 of the game's first 24, including a three-point play that gave the Eagles a 17-7 lead with 11:58 left before the intermission. Barba-Bey hit back-to-back 3-pointers to cut FDU's deficit to four just over a minute later but Boston College scored the next eight points and the Knights got no closer until the second half. Boston College won for just the second time since beating Boise State 63-61 on Joshua Beadle's late 3-pointer to win the Cayman Islands Classic on Nov. 26 and improve to 6-1. The Knights have lost four games in a row overall and are 0-10 away from home this season. Boston College won the lone previous meeting between the programs 72-54 on Dec. 10, 1992. ___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball
Formula 1 Racing Market Overview and Leading Players: Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One Team, Williams Racing, Williams Martini Racing, Force India Formula One Team, Scuderia AlphaTauri, Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team, McLaren F1 Team, Alpine F1 12-08-2024 10:22 PM CET | Tourism, Cars, Traffic Press release from: STATS N DATA Formula 1 Racing Market The Formula 1 Racing Market has emerged as a dynamic and highly competitive arena, captivating audiences globally with its blend of speed, technology, and strategy. As a premier motorsport, Formula 1 not only showcases cutting-edge engineering but also serves as a key platform for innovation in automotive design and performance. The relevance of the Formula 1 Racing Market extends to various sectors, including automotive manufacturing, technology development, and entertainment, making it a vital component of the global sports industry. The market is experiencing significant growth driven by several recent developments. Technological advancements, particularly in areas such as hybrid power units and AI-driven analytics, are transforming how teams prepare for races and engage with fans. Strategic collaborations between racing teams and technology companies are pushing the boundaries of performance, enhancing both on-track competition and fan experience. The integration of advanced data analytics and simulation technologies has become a game changer, providing teams with invaluable insights that influence race strategies and vehicle design. You can access a sample PDF report here: https://www.statsndata.org/download-sample.php?id=377089 Recent factors such as the growing popularity of motorsport in emerging markets, increased investment in racing infrastructure, and the expanding reach of digital broadcasting are also contributing to the growth of the Formula 1 Racing Market. Additionally, the emphasis on sustainability and the introduction of new regulations aimed at reducing carbon emissions are reshaping how teams approach car design and race strategies, reinforcing the sport's commitment to environmental responsibility. Key Growth Drivers and Trends Several critical factors are influencing the demand within the Formula 1 Racing Market. Sustainability has emerged as a primary driver, with teams and organizations focusing on reducing their carbon footprint. Initiatives such as the introduction of hybrid power units and commitments to sustainable fuel sources are pivotal in attracting environmentally conscious fans and sponsors. Digitization is another significant trend reshaping the market. The rise of digital platforms has allowed teams to engage with their fan base more effectively, offering unique content and experiences. Virtual reality and augmented reality technologies are enhancing the fan experience, providing immersive ways to experience races beyond traditional viewing. Consumer awareness is also on the rise, with fans increasingly seeking personalized experiences. The demand for customized merchandise and tailored fan interactions is influencing team strategies and marketing approaches. This trend is further fueled by the integration of AI technologies, which enable teams to analyze consumer data and preferences, tailoring their offerings to meet evolving expectations. Emerging technologies are also playing a critical role in shaping the future of the Formula 1 Racing Market. The implementation of AI in car design and race strategy, alongside advancements in telematics and IoT systems, is revolutionizing how teams approach competition. These technologies not only enhance performance but also contribute to improved safety standards, further driving interest in the sport. Market Segmentation The Formula 1 Racing Market can be segmented into various categories, providing a comprehensive overview of its structure: • By Type: - Open-Wheel Race Cars - Engines and Power Units - Chassis and Bodywork - Tires and Wheels - Aerodynamic Components - Safety Equipment • By Application: - Team Ownership and Management - Race Car Manufacturing and Sales - Racing Components and Equipment - Sponsorship and Advertising - Broadcasting and Media Rights - Event Organizing and Promotion • By Team: - Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team - Scuderia Ferrari - Red Bull Racing - McLaren F1 Team - Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One Team - Alpine F1 Team - Alfa Romeo Racing ORLEN - Haas F1 Team - Williams Racing - AlphaTauri This segmentation highlights the diverse components and applications that contribute to the overall landscape of the Formula 1 Racing Market. Each segment plays a crucial role in the market's dynamics, influencing everything from technological advancements to consumer engagement strategies. Get 30% Discount On Full Report: https://www.statsndata.org/ask-for-discount.php?id=377089 Competitive Landscape The competitive landscape of the Formula 1 Racing Market is characterized by a diverse array of teams and manufacturers, each playing a vital role in shaping industry trends and driving innovation. Key players include: • Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team: Renowned for its engineering prowess, Mercedes has consistently pushed the boundaries of performance with its hybrid power units and advanced aerodynamics. • Scuderia Ferrari: A historical giant in F1, Ferrari is known for its commitment to innovation and has made significant strides in integrating sustainability into its operations. • Red Bull Racing: With a focus on creative design and marketing, Red Bull Racing has captured the imagination of fans worldwide and is at the forefront of technology integration in racing. • McLaren F1 Team: McLaren continues to innovate in car design and technology, emphasizing performance and fan engagement through digital platforms. • Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One Team: This team has made headlines with its unique design philosophy and commitment to sustainability, reflecting broader market trends. • Alpine F1 Team: As a newer player, Alpine is focused on leveraging innovative technologies to compete effectively in the dynamic F1 environment. • Alfa Romeo Racing ORLEN: Alfa Romeo combines its rich heritage with modern engineering, aiming to enhance performance while maintaining brand identity. • Haas F1 Team: Haas is focused on cost-effective strategies and partnerships, providing opportunities for growth within the competitive landscape. • Williams Racing: A storied name in F1, Williams is committed to reviving its competitive edge through strategic alliances and technological advancements. • AlphaTauri: As a sister team to Red Bull Racing, AlphaTauri focuses on fostering young talent and innovative design, contributing to the overall vibrancy of the sport. Each of these teams is contributing to the evolution of the Formula 1 Racing Market through product innovations, market expansions, and strategic partnerships. Their collective efforts are driving the industry forward, emphasizing the importance of technology and sustainability in the future of motorsport. Opportunities and Challenges The Formula 1 Racing Market presents a wealth of opportunities, particularly in untapped regions where motorsport is gaining popularity. Emerging markets, especially in Asia and South America, are becoming increasingly receptive to Formula 1, offering new avenues for growth in fan engagement, sponsorship, and merchandising. Evolving consumer preferences are also presenting opportunities for teams to develop customized experiences that resonate with a diverse audience. However, the market is not without its challenges. Regulatory constraints, particularly regarding environmental standards and safety regulations, can pose hurdles for teams seeking to innovate. Operational inefficiencies, such as logistical challenges during race weekends, can impact team performance and profitability. Additionally, the industry faces a talent shortage, with a growing need for skilled engineers and technicians to drive innovation and maintain competitiveness. To address these challenges, teams and organizations are adopting proactive strategies. Collaborations with educational institutions to create talent pipelines, investment in operational technologies, and a commitment to compliance with evolving regulations are essential to overcoming these hurdles and capitalizing on market opportunities. Technological Advancements Technological advancements are fundamentally transforming the Formula 1 Racing Market. The integration of artificial intelligence is revolutionizing car design, race strategies, and fan engagement. AI algorithms are being utilized to analyze vast amounts of data, enabling teams to make informed decisions in real-time during races. Virtual tools and simulations are also playing a critical role in car development and race preparation. Teams are using advanced simulations to assess the performance of various components and strategies, allowing for quicker iterations and improvements. The Internet of Things (IoT) is enhancing data collection and analysis, providing teams with insights that were previously unattainable. Furthermore, advancements in telematics are enhancing safety measures and performance monitoring. Real-time data transmission from cars to pit crews allows for immediate adjustments during races, improving overall performance and safety. These cutting-edge technologies are not only elevating the competition on the track but also enhancing the overall experience for fans, ensuring that the Formula 1 Racing Market remains at the forefront of innovation. Research Methodology and Insights STATS N DATA employs a comprehensive research methodology to provide accurate insights into the Formula 1 Racing Market. Our approach includes both top-down and bottom-up methodologies, ensuring a holistic view of market dynamics. Primary research involves engaging with industry experts, stakeholders, and key players, while secondary research encompasses a thorough analysis of existing data sources, reports, and market trends. Our triangulation method enables us to validate findings and ensure accuracy, providing clients with reliable insights that inform strategic decision-making. This rigorous research process positions STATS N DATA as a trusted authority in the Formula 1 Racing Market, delivering valuable information that helps stakeholders navigate the complexities of this vibrant industry. In conclusion, the Formula 1 Racing Market is poised for significant growth, driven by technological advancements, evolving consumer preferences, and a commitment to sustainability. With a diverse range of opportunities and challenges, stakeholders must remain agile and innovative to thrive in this fast-paced environment. As the market continues to evolve, STATS N DATA remains dedicated to providing the insights necessary for success in the Formula 1 Racing landscape. For customization requests, please visit: https://www.statsndata.org/request-customization.php?id=377089 https://www.statsndata.org/report/formula-1-racing-market-377089 Get more information about recently published reports by STATS N DATA below: You can then follow this with links or a list of the specific reports Top 10 Trends in Content Management System (CMS) Software: Future Innovations, Efficiency Boosts, and Opportunities for Growth: https://www.statsndata.org/blog/185/top-10-trends-in-content-management-system-cms-software-future-innovations-efficiency-boosts-and-opportunities-for-growth Top 10 Trends in Copper Coin PCBs: Innovations, Applications, and Industry Insights: https://www.statsndata.org/blog/186/top-10-trends-in-copper-coin-pcbs-innovations-applications-and-industry-insights Top 10 Trends in Crochet: Innovations, Popular Patterns, and Market Insights: https://www.statsndata.org/blog/187/top-10-trends-in-crochet-innovations-popular-patterns-and-market-insights Top 10 Trends in Epirubicin Hydrochloride API: Innovations, Applications, and Industry Insights: https://www.statsndata.org/blog/189/top-10-trends-in-epirubicin-hydrochloride-api-innovations-applications-and-industry-insights Top 10 Trends in Hydrogen Purifiers: Innovations, Applications, and Future Prospects: https://www.statsndata.org/blog/190/top-10-trends-in-hydrogen-purifiers-innovations-applications-and-future-prospects John Jones Sales & Marketing Head | Stats N Data Phone: +1 (315) 642-4324 Email: sales@statsndata.org Website: www.statsndata.org STATS N DATA is a trusted provider of industry intelligence and market research, delivering actionable insights to businesses across diverse sectors. We specialize in helping organizations navigate complex markets with advanced analytics, detailed market segmentation, and strategic guidance. Our expertise spans industries including technology, healthcare, telecommunications, energy, food & beverages, and more. Committed to accuracy and innovation, we provide tailored reports that empower clients to make informed decisions, identify emerging opportunities, and achieve sustainable growth. Our team of skilled analysts leverages cutting-edge methodologies to ensure every report addresses the unique challenges of our clients. At STATS N DATA, we transform data into knowledge and insights into success. Partner with us to gain a competitive edge in today's fast-paced business environment. For more information, visit https://www.statsndata.org or contact us today at sales@statsndata.org This release was published on openPR.Haynes' 18 help George Mason defeat Mount St. Mary's 64-56
Boston Celtics visit White House for NBA championship celebrationEDITORIAL: The Dec 20 TTP attack in South Waziristan that cost the military 16 precious lives must force a cold re-think and hard reset of the security strategy. There’s no doubt that the approach in place since TTP went active again, which is to react to individual terrorist attacks, is not working. The enemy is able to regroup and bounce back stronger every time. It’s also clear enough by now that simply requesting the Afghan government to clamp down on TTP camps on their side of the border is not going to work. It appears, from the rush of statements following the terror attack, that while the government sorts out how to make Kabul listen to reason, the army is going to cleanse border areas on the Pakistani side, at least, and employ a wholesome strategy on the lines of the military operations from last decade that dismantled TTP’s infrastructure in the tribal area and sent insurgents running across the border. That is exactly what is needed. The soft approach, of waiting for the next attack and then going after the cell that orchestrated it, is not enough of a deterrent. Security forces must do whatever is necessary to completely root out all manner of terrorist presence in the border area. It will, however, be important to do a few things that were left undone, or incomplete, last time. The first is to empower and train the police force, which is the first line of defence, instead of always relying on the army to get the job done. Even though the first TTP insurgency completely changed the security landscape, the police force was not given the attention that it should have been. And all these years later, it remains under-funded and inadequately trained to meet the sort of challenges that have cropped up again. Another concern that reached the press last time was inadequate intelligence sharing among the dozens of agencies working towards the same goal. This was also included in the National Action Plan (NAP) that was hammered out after the APS tragedy in Peshawar but, according to widely published news reports, was not implemented properly. There’s one more thing that will be needed this time to keep TTP’s new insurgency from inflicting yet more pain on the state and the people. The political elite will have to show the maturity to put their petty differences aside to meet the threat that affects the entire country. As things stand, the chief minister of the province that faces the most attacks spends most of his time agitating against the government in the centre. And whatever reasons either side has for its chosen strategy, such confrontation provides the ideal opportunity for the enemy to strike right at the heart of the state. 2024 is ending as the bloodiest year in a long time, with almost 900 militant attacks and more than a thousand deaths from them. These statistics reflect very poorly on a state that was supposed to have learnt the right lessons from an insurgency a whole decade ago. Let’s not forget that we lost more than 80,000 people to that wave of terrorism. It’s time to nip this evil in the bud before it gains any more momentum. For that everybody, the military and the political elite will have to play their part. Copyright Business Recorder, 2024
The BMC-run Nair Hospital Dental College has received the prestigious United States-based Pierre Fauchard Academy award for its social sector contribution. The award is in the category of ‘Best Social Service in the Asia Pacific Region’. Dr Neelam Andrade, Dean of Nair Hospital Dental College received the award on December 8 from Dr Cheryl Billingsley, international president of the Pierre Fauchard Academy, at an event in New Delhi. The Pierre Fauchard Academy was established in 1936 and is given in memory of the French dentist Pierre Fauchard, who is considered the father of modern dentistry.