New Delhi, June 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Delhi on Saturday, warning residents of scattered thunderstorms, thundersqualls, gusty winds and light rainfall later in the day as weather conditions across the National Capital Region continue to shift under the influence of a fresh western disturbance.

According to the weather department, Delhi is expected to have partly cloudy skies throughout the day, with thunderstorms and gusty winds developing during the afternoon or evening.

Wind speeds may reach 40-50 kmph, accompanied by a spell of light rain in isolated areas. The IMD has advised residents to remain cautious during periods of strong winds and thunderstorm activity.

Temperatures are expected to remain relatively comfortable compared with recent days, with the minimum likely to settle around 23 degrees Celsius and the maximum around 37 degrees Celsius.

The yellow alert comes after a significant change in weather conditions on Friday, when Delhi residents woke up to cloudy skies and a pleasant morning following overnight rainfall. The city’s primary weather observatory at Safdarjung recorded a minimum temperature of 22.8 degrees Celsius, which was 5.2 degrees Celsius below the seasonal average. The reading also marked a sharp decline of 7.2 degrees Celsius from the previous day.

The weather department attributes the sudden drop in temperatures and increased cloud cover to a fresh western disturbance affecting northwest India. The weather system has introduced moisture and atmospheric instability across the region, creating favourable conditions for thunderstorm activity and intermittent rainfall.

The IMD noted that western disturbances frequently trigger weather fluctuations during the pre-monsoon period, often resulting in thunderstorms, dust storms and a gradual reduction in daytime temperatures. Similar weather events have been recorded across Delhi-NCR in recent days, with scattered rainfall and strong winds providing temporary relief from prolonged heatwave conditions.

After experiencing several days of intense heat, with temperatures remaining significantly above normal levels, the latest weather system is expected to bring cooler conditions over the next few days.

The IMD is closely monitoring the situation and has advised residents to stay updated on weather forecasts as conditions may change rapidly during the day.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, June 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will attend the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) of 217 Course, on Saturday at Air Force Academy (AFA) Hyderabad's Dundigal.

Marked by military precision, the event will commemorate the successful completion of the pre-commissioning training of Flight Cadets across various branches of the Indian Air Force (IAF), the the Ministry of Defence said in a statement.

Rajnath Singh will be the Reviewing Officer (RO) for the parade.

During the ceremony, Singh will confer the 'President's Commission' on the graduating trainees. The ceremony includes the presentation of 'Wings' and 'Brevets' upon successful completion of training to the Flight Cadets of the IAF, officers and trainees of the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard and Socialist Republic of Vietnam, according to the Ministry.

This CGP will also mark the commissioning of the first batch of women cadets from the National Defence Academy (NDA), Pune, who passed out on May 30, 2025, and joined AFA for branch-specific training.

The Defence Minister will also present the 'President's Plaque' to the Flight Cadets standing first in the overall order of merit in Flying, Navigation stream and Ground Duty branches.

The parade will feature military drills and aerial displays. The event will begin with demonstrations by the Akash Ganga skydiving team and the Air Warrior Drill Team (AWDT). These will be interspersed with fly-pasts led by Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh.

The flypast featured four types of trainer aircraft: the Pilatus PC-7 MkII, Hawk, Kiran, and Chetak. The ceremony's major attractions included aerial displays by the SU-30 MKI, the Sarang helicopter display team, and the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT).

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, June 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar spoke to the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and lodged a strong diplomatic protest with the United States after the latter's Navy strike on an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman killed three Indian seafarers.

The EAM while speaking to his US counterpart Rubio on Friday evening also added that "such lethal actions against commercial shipping are 'not justified'".

In a post on social media platform X, EAM Jaishankar wrote, "Spoke to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio this evening. I reiterated India’s strong protest at the attacks by the US Navy in the Gulf that killed three Indian mariners. Such lethal actions against commercial shipping are not justified."

Earlier on Friday, the US' Charge d'Affaires (CDA), Jason Meeks, was summoned to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

A strong protest was lodged with US' CDA regarding the continuing attacks by United States' naval forces on commercial vessels carrying Indian sailors in the Gulf of Oman, which have already resulted in the tragic and avoidable loss of three Indian lives, the MEA said in a statement.

The Ministry once again conveyed its deep concern over the use of lethal and deadly force against civilian shipping, adding that "such actions are unacceptable and undermine the safety, security and stability of international maritime commerce in a sensitive region at a difficult time".

The US' CDA was requested to convey India's strong concerns to his authorities and to ensure that US forces operating in the region take all necessary measures to prevent the loss of civilian life, the MEA added in the statement

The diplomatic intervention comes after Indian authorities confirmed that three crew members initially reported missing following the US military strike have been found dead.

The Palau-flagged oil tanker Settebello had a crew of 28 people when it was attacked. The crew included 24 Indian nationals and four foreign nationals -- two Pakistanis, one Ukrainian and one Russian. Twenty-one Indian sailors were rescued after the incident, while efforts to locate the missing crew members continued until their deaths were confirmed.

The US military acknowledged carrying out the strike on the vessel. According to US Central Command, American forces targeted the tanker after it allegedly failed to comply with instructions from US naval personnel and was attempting to transport oil from Iran in violation of an ongoing American blockade.

In a statement, CENTCOM said one of its aircraft fired on the vessel in the Gulf of Oman, disabling it after the crew repeatedly failed to comply with directions from US forces.

The strike occurred amid heightened tensions in the region, where competing maritime restrictions imposed during the ongoing West Asia conflict have severely disrupted commercial shipping.

India has strongly criticised the attack, emphasising that the vessel was carrying a large number of Indian nationals and was engaged in commercial activity.

The MEA said attacks on merchant shipping in the region are "deeply concerning" and "linked to the broader conflict in the Middle East".

"Attacks on shipping in the region are deeply worrisome and a direct result of the ongoing conflict in the region. We reiterate our call for immediate de-escalation," the MEA added.

Source: IANS

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Bhubaneswar, June 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) Odisha Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling on Friday appealed to the people of the state to actively participate in the mass yoga campaign being organised by the Union Ministry of Ayush on the occasion of International Yoga Day 2026, aimed at setting a Guinness World Record.

In his message, the Minister said that under the visionary leadership and initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, yoga has today become a global health movement. Recognising India’s proposal, the United Nations declared June 21 as the International Day of Yoga. Since then, the universal message of yoga has reached every corner of the world and has become a part of the lifestyle of millions of people.

He stated that yoga is a scientifically proven method for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Regular yoga practice can help prevent various lifestyle-related diseases and enable people to lead a healthy, active life. The State Health Minister further said that the theme of this year’s International Yoga Day is “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.”

According to him, yoga plays an exceptional role in helping people remain healthy as they age, maintain mental balance and improve the quality of life.

Notably, the Ministry of Ayush will organise an online yoga session on June 14, 2026, from 6:15 a.m. to 7:35 a.m. The objective is to set a Guinness World Record by having the largest number of people participate simultaneously.

“This is not merely an attempt to create a world record; it is a national campaign aimed at further strengthening the Prime Minister’s vision of a ‘Healthy India’ and transforming yoga into a mass movement. Greater participation by the people of Odisha in this initiative will reflect the state’s health consciousness and spirit of public participation,” said the Minister.

He urged doctors, healthcare workers, students, youth, women, citizens, government employees, Self-Help Groups, yoga institutions and all aware citizens to join this historic initiative individually through their mobile phones or other personal devices.

To participate in the programme, he appealed to people to register by making a missed call to the toll-free number 1800-315-7008.

In conclusion, the Minister said, “Let us all come together to make yoga a people’s movement, take a pledge for a healthy life, and ensure that Odisha, along with India, becomes a part of the success of this historic Guinness World Record.”

Source: IANS

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Bhopal, June 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) A simple attempt to retrieve a fallen slipper from the Shipra River ended in tragedy, claiming two lives. A 14-year-old boy and his 25-year-old uncle drowned near the large bridge in Mahidpur, leaving their village engulfed in grief.

According to reports and police officials, the incident began when Ayush, son of Ashok and a resident of Narayankhedi, was crossing the bridge on Friday afternoon. His slipper slipped into the river, and in a moment of impulse, the teenager leapt into the water to recover it. The river’s depth and strong current quickly overwhelmed him.

Nearby, his uncle Asaram, son of Shobharam, was present with his tractor. Seeing his nephew in distress, Asaram parked the vehicle and jumped into the river without hesitation, determined to save the boy.

It took almost three hours for divers to recover the bodies from the river. Tragically, both were unable to withstand the force of the water. Within moments, they were submerged.

News of the incident spread rapidly, and Mahidpur police rushed to the spot along with a rescue team. Local divers joined the operation, battling the current in a desperate bid to locate the victims. After two and a half hours of intense effort, the bodies of Ayush and Asaram were finally recovered. The rescue team faced significant challenges due to the river’s flow, which delayed recovery.

The deaths have raised questions about safety measures at the bridge, with residents urging authorities to install warning signs and barriers.

The sorrow in Narayankhedi is profound. Asaram had been married only a month earlier. Ayush’s family, too, is devastated, their home filled with cries of anguish.

Police have sent the bodies to the government hospital for post-mortem examinations and registered a case to investigate the circumstances.

The Shipra River, revered and feared for its currents, has once again claimed lives, leaving behind shattered families and a grieving village.

Source: IANS

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Ahmedabad, June 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) Customs officials at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA) in Ahmedabad have seized 24 foreign-origin gold biscuits weighing 2,799.3 grams and valued at Rs 4.26 crore after they were discovered concealed inside an IndiGo aircraft that had arrived from Dubai, officials said on Friday.

According to Customs authorities, the seizure was made during rummaging operations conducted on board IndiGo flight 6E-1478 after its arrival from Dubai.

With the assistance of aircraft engineers, officers searched the aircraft and recovered two pouches wrapped in black plastic tape from inside a speaker box located in the front lavatory.

"On examination, the pouches were found to contain 24 gold biscuits of 999.0 purity (24 carat) with a combined weight of 2,799.3 grams. The gold was valued at Rs 4,26,89,325 in the domestic market," officials said.

Customs said the manner in which the gold had been concealed indicated an attempt to smuggle it into India in violation of the Customs Act, 1962.

Officials said the contraband appeared to have been hidden by an unidentified individual, and no person came forward to claim ownership of the recovered gold.

As a result, the gold was seized as unclaimed under the relevant provisions of the act.

Officials added that further investigation is underway to identify those responsible for the smuggling attempt and to determine whether the seizure is linked to a larger network operating on Gulf routes.

The seizure is the latest in a series of gold smuggling cases detected at Ahmedabad airport.

In February this year, Customs officers intercepted a passenger arriving from Dubai and recovered 601.9 grams of 24-carat gold valued at Rs 96.06 lakh, including gold concealed in paste form inside his underwear.

In another case reported in February, Customs officials apprehended four women passengers arriving from Jeddah and seized 945.57 grams of 24-carat gold jewellery valued at Rs 1.52 crore.

The jewellery, comprising rhodium-coated chains and bangles, had allegedly been concealed to evade detection. Ahmedabad airport has witnessed a steady stream of attempts at gold smuggling in recent years.

Source: IANS

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Gandhinagar, June 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) A high-level industry summit aimed at shaping the proposed Mega Furniture Park in Porbandar will be held on June 13 and 14, bringing together government officials, industry leaders, trade bodies and international representatives to discuss the project's development framework and future roadmap.

The "Viksit Porbandar Furniture Park Summit" is being organised as part of efforts to explore the establishment of a large-scale furniture manufacturing hub in Porbandar and assess its potential to attract investment and industrial activity to the region.

Union Minister and Porbandar MP Mansukh Mandaviya and State Minister and Porbandar MLA Arjun Modhwadia are expected to participate in the summit and engage with stakeholders on opportunities, requirements and future initiatives linked to the proposed furniture park.

More than 50 representatives from the furniture manufacturing sector and allied industries, along with industry associations and business chambers from across Gujarat and other parts of the country, have been invited to attend the event.

The summit is also expected to feature representatives from several national and international organisations and brands, including Steve Hickling of the British Deputy High Commission in Ahmedabad.

Representatives from IKEA, Dato Sanso, Hettich, Merino, Royal Touch Laminates, Medoc and Aemor are also expected to attend. Industry bodies participating in the summit include the Gujarat Timber Merchant Association, the Gujarat Timber Auction Association, the Gujarat Green Economic Chamber, and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Association based in Porbandar.

Officials said senior representatives from the state government's Industries Department, Ports Department and local administrative offices will take part in the discussions. ‍

The departments are expected to present the framework for the proposed project and discuss mechanisms for coordinating among the government agencies involved in its development.

The summit will include deliberations on the feasibility of establishing the proposed Mega Furniture Park in Porbandar, guidance on its development, and the strategic initiatives required for its future growth.

Delegates attending the event from India and abroad will also undertake a site visit on June 14 to inspect the proposed location for the Furniture Park near Bharwada, close to Porbandar.

The visit is expected to provide stakeholders with an opportunity to assess the site's suitability and to review the planned infrastructure facilities for development in the area.

The district administration has also planned welcome programmes and cultural events for visiting delegates, showcasing the art, culture and traditions of the Saurashtra region.

Officials said the proposed Furniture Park is envisaged as a project that could strengthen Porbandar's industrial base by attracting investment in furniture manufacturing and related sectors, generating employment opportunities, and supporting the growth of a manufacturing ecosystem linked to domestic and international markets.

The two-day summit is expected to conclude on June 14, following stakeholder consultations and the site inspection of the proposed project area.

Source: IANS

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Agartala, June 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) Tripura Power and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ratan Lal Nath on Friday reiterated the state government's commitment to supporting families affected by political violence, stating that government jobs are being provided to eligible family members of those killed in such incidents.

Nath said a large number of political killings had taken place in the state before the formation of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government in 2018. Citing available records, he told the media at the Civil Secretariat that between 1993 and 2017, as many as 15,589 murders were reported in Tripura, of which several hundred were linked to political violence.

The minister said that after assuming office, the BJP-led government decided to provide government employment to one eligible family member of each victim of political violence under a dedicated rehabilitation scheme.

“Accordingly, the ‘Scheme for Providing Employment to Members of the Family of Persons Killed in Political Violence’ was notified on December 23, 2020. Initially, the scheme covered families of persons killed in political violence up to March 9, 2018,” Nath said.

He informed that the state Cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Manik Saha, later approved an amendment to the scheme by removing the condition restricting eligibility to cases occurring before March 9, 2018, thereby widening its scope.

Explaining the process for granting employment under the scheme, Nath said a detailed verification mechanism has been put in place to establish whether a death was the result of political violence. Police reports, official records and other relevant inquiries are examined to ascertain the nature of the incident and determine whether an eligible family member is available for appointment.

“To ensure transparency and fairness, a scrutiny committee has been constituted under my chairmanship. The committee includes the Secretary of the Law Department, the Director of the Information and Cultural Affairs Department, an Inspector General of Police and a representative of the Home Department,” he said.

According to the minister, the government has so far received 38 petitions seeking benefits under the scheme. Of these, 18 eligible family members have already been provided government jobs, while 11 additional cases have been recommended for employment. He said five petitions were rejected after inquiries failed to establish that the deaths were linked to political violence, while four other applications are still under examination and pending completion of the verification process.

Nath further stated that in several cases dating back to the Left Front regime, obtaining documentary evidence has been difficult due to the absence of records, including missing police documents and official reports.

“Many incidents that occurred during the earlier period are difficult to verify because supporting documents are not available. In some cases, even police records are missing. However, the government is making every effort to examine each case carefully,” he said.

The minister asserted that the state government does not discriminate on political grounds while considering applications under the scheme.

“We do not view political violence through a partisan lens. Whether the victim belonged to the BJP, CPI(M), Congress, or any other political party, every case is examined with equal importance and sensitivity. Our objective is to extend support to deserving families who have suffered due to political violence,” Nath added.

Source: IANS

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Mumbai, June 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) In a decisive move to curb the illegal trade of banned tobacco products, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is initiating stringent action under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act, 1999 (MCOCA) against individuals involved in the production, storage, transportation, distribution and sale of gutka. This development aligns with earlier indications given by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis during the Winter Session of the Legislative Assembly in Nagpur.

Confirming the implementation, Minister for Food and Drug Administration Narhari Zirwal on Friday said Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had informed the Legislative Assembly during the Nagpur winter session that MCOCA could be applied to those in the gutka business.

Accordingly, the FDA is taking a highly significant step to initiate strict action against the organised networks that manufacture, store, transport, distribute, and sell gutka.

FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe today issued explicit orders to all regional officers to invoke MCOCA in eligible cases involving organised networks that manufacture, store, transport, distribute or sell gutka, tobacco, nicotine-infused pan masala and similar banned tobacco-mixed food products. Joint investigations by the FDA, police and related agencies have revealed that these operations extend far beyond retail shops.

Eligible cases demonstrate the coordinated involvement of a massive supply chain, including manufacturers, suppliers, financiers, warehousing operators, transporters, wholesalers and sub-dealers.

The official order notes that these syndicates frequently employ sophisticated illegal tactics, such as the use of forged documents, fake invoices, dummy companies, benami transactions, hidden warehouses, interstate supply chains, and diversionary transport routes.

Consequently, these offences will no longer be treated merely as food safety violations but will face the full force of anti-organised crime laws.

“The illegal trade violates the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, under which the manufacturing, storage, distribution or sale of unsafe food is a major criminal offence. The legal framework being deployed includes Section 59, which provides for imprisonment for manufacturing or selling unsafe food; Section 64, which prescribes enhanced punishments and penalties for repeat offences; Sections 38 and 41, which empower Food Safety Officers with the authority to conduct inspections, searches and seizures; and Section 42, which details the procedure for launching formal prosecution against offenders,” the official order stated.

Despite a statewide ban on gutka, the banned substances continue to be found in several areas, particularly around school and college campuses. Recognising this gravity, the government had previously resolved to introduce MCOCA to ensure airtight implementation of the prohibition laws.

“To protect public health in Maharashtra and to permanently dismantle the organised illegal trade of banned food items, the law will be enforced with absolute stringency,” Minister Zirwal emphasised.

Source: IANS

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Ahmedabad/New Delhi, June 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) One year after the crash of Air India flight AI-171, investigators have now said the probe remains ongoing, with additional technical evaluations and analysis still underway, while families of victims continue to await definitive answers about the disaster that claimed 260 lives.

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) on Friday issued an interim statement marking the first anniversary of the accident involving the Boeing 787-8 operating from Ahmedabad to London.

The agency said that significant progress had been made in examining aircraft systems, flight recorder data, engine-related components, maintenance records and operational evidence, but stopped short of releasing any new technical findings or conclusions.

According to the AAIB, evidence gathered over the past year is being analysed in a comprehensive and integrated manner, and further specialist examinations will be carried out wherever necessary.

The bureau said the final report would be released only after all investigative activities, international review and consultation processes required under ICAO Annex 13 have been completed.

The interim statement also urged the media and the public to avoid speculation while the investigation remains in progress, reiterating that the purpose of an accident investigation is to improve aviation safety rather than assign blame or liability.

Reacting to the update, aviation lawyer Mike Andrews, who represents more than 135 affected families through US-based Beasley Allen Law Firm, said the statement contained no new information about the cause of the crash.

"The interim statement that was released today did not contain any new technical or factual information. The statement indicates that the AAIB investigation is continuing with technical evaluation and analysis. While we wait for the board to release the results of its findings, we continue to push forward with our own research and evaluation," Andrews said.

The AI-171 disaster occurred on June 12, 2025, shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.

The aircraft crashed less than a minute after departure while operating a scheduled service to London Gatwick.

Of the 242 people on board, 241 died, while 19 people on the ground were also killed, taking the total death toll to 260.

A preliminary report released by the AAIB in July last year found that both engine fuel control switches moved from the "RUN" position to "CUTOFF" shortly after take-off, resulting in a loss of fuel supply to both engines.

The report documented cockpit confusion over the event but did not determine how or why the switches moved, leaving investigators to continue examining technical, operational and human factors associated with the accident.

The final report had been expected around the first anniversary of the crash, but investigators have indicated that additional analysis, including examination of engine-related evidence, remains unfinished.

Officials have said the complexity of the investigation has delayed completion of the report.

In its anniversary statement, the AAIB said it remained committed to conducting a thorough, independent and evidence-based investigation and that every aspect of the accident would continue to be examined before final conclusions and safety recommendations are published.

Source: IANS

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Jaipur, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Friday attended a special screening of the film 'Bharat Bhagya Vidhata' at Entertainment Paradise Miraj Cinema in Jawahar Circle of Jaipur, officials said.

Actress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Kangana Ranaut, Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, BJP MP Manju Sharma, the film's producer and director, along with nursing professionals and students, were present on the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that the spirit of "Nation First" and sensitivity towards society form the true identity of a responsible citizen.

He described the film 'Bharat Bhagya Vidhata' as an inspiring portrayal of unsung heroes who dedicated their lives to serving society and the nation, placing national interest above everything else.

Chief Minister Sharma said India has repeatedly witnessed extraordinary examples of service and sacrifice during challenging times, from the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks to the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Doctors, nurses, security personnel and other frontline workers set remarkable examples of humanity and national service while discharging their duties under difficult circumstances," he noted.

He said the film highlights the courage, dedication and sacrifices of countless individuals who continue to serve the nation and society despite adversity.

Such stories, he added, inspire citizens to embrace their responsibilities and contribute positively to society.

Congratulating the film's producer and the entire team, the Chief Minister said meaningful cinema can play an important role in creating awareness among the youth about duty, service and social responsibility.

He urged young people to actively participate in nation-building through service and cooperation.

Nursing professionals were also felicitated during the event in recognition of their outstanding contribution to society and healthcare services.

Source: IANS

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Bhubaneswar, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday launched the Mukhyamantri Annapurna Yojana on the occasion of the BJP government's completion of two years in office, stating that the scheme has been introduced with the objective of ensuring that no family in Odisha goes hungry, no child suffers from malnutrition and no elderly person faces hardship due to a lack of food.

Speaking at a function in Bhubaneswar, the Chief Minister highlighted various welfare measures and schemes undertaken by the state government over the past two years.

He said that the state government is moving forward guided by PM Modi’s mantra of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas”.

Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a developed India and blessed by the people of Odisha, the government remains committed to building a prosperous, empowered and self-reliant Odisha, he said.

While launching the Mukhyamantri Annapurna Yojana, Majhi said: “This is not merely a scheme. It is our government’s commitment towards public welfare, compassion towards the poor, and a historic resolve to safeguard the food plate of every family in the state. This is our gift to the common people of Odisha on the occasion of our government’s second anniversary.”

It may be noted that all beneficiaries will now receive an additional 5 kg of rice free of cost over and above the free rice they are already entitled to under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013, and the State Food Security Scheme (SFSS).

Currently, beneficiaries receive 5 kg of rice free of cost.

Following the implementation of the scheme, each beneficiary will receive a total of 10 kg of rice free of cost every month.

More than 3.28 crore beneficiaries from around 1.96 crore families — nearly 80 per cent of Odisha’s population — will benefit from the scheme.

The state government will spend Rs 8,813 crore annually on its implementation.

The Chief Minister said that this expenditure should not be viewed as a cost but as a sacred social investment aimed at bringing smiles to the faces of the poor.

“For us, this expenditure is not a cost, but a sacred social investment aimed at bringing smiles to the faces of the poor,” Majhi added.

On the occasion of the completion of two years in office, the Chief Minister also launched three major infrastructure projects for Bhubaneswar and laid the foundation stone for a 20-storey Janashraya Bhavan on Janpath to provide safe accommodation to people visiting the city from different parts of the state.

Notably, the building, to be constructed at a cost of Rs 874 crore, will provide short-term accommodation with modern amenities for around 2,000 people at affordable rates.

Additionally, the Chief Minister launched the distribution of smartphones to all Anganwadi workers, supervisors and block coordinators in the state.

A total of 72,224 Anganwadi workers, 2,802 lady supervisors and 338 block coordinators will receive smartphones.

Source: IANS

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Jaipur, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) In a major relief for farmers, the Rajasthan government on Friday extended the wheat procurement period under the Minimum Support Price (MSP) scheme for the Rabi Marketing Season 2026-27 till June 19.

The decision has been taken by the Food and Civil Supplies Department following the directions of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma.

With the extension, all registered farmers whose wheat remains unsold will now be able to sell their produce at the MSP until June 19.

The state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Sharma, has consistently prioritised farmers' welfare and taken several farmer-centric decisions.

In another significant move, the state's wheat procurement target has been increased from 23.50 lakh metric tonnes to 28.50 lakh metric tonnes.

According to official figures, 25.90 lakh metric tonnes of wheat have already been procured from more than three lakh farmers across the state.

To ensure better returns for farmers, the state government is providing a bonus of Rs 150 per quintal over and above the Centre's MSP of Rs 2,585 per quintal.

As a result, farmers in Rajasthan are receiving Rs 2,735 per quintal, placing the state among the top performers in offering remunerative prices for wheat procurement.

Officials said the extension of the procurement period will provide farmers with an additional opportunity to sell their produce at a fair and assured price.

Chief Minister Sharma said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision links the prosperity of the nation with the prosperity of its farmers.

In line with this vision, the double-engine government is continuously working to ensure fair prices for agricultural produce, simplify procurement procedures, and strengthen the farming sector.

The Chief Minister has directed all concerned agencies to carry out procurement operations in accordance with the revised targets and ensure that farmers do not face any inconvenience during the process.

He also instructed government officials to make adequate arrangements for the safe storage and management of the procured wheat.

Source: IANS

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Mumbai, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Following the dramatic political developments in West Bengal, intense political speculation has shifted to Maharashtra. In a swift move, former Chief Minister and Shiv Sena-UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray has called an urgent meeting of all his party's Members of Parliament (MPs) on June 14.

The sudden decision has sparked widespread discussion in political circles, with questions being raised over the possibility of unrest within the party ranks.

Thackeray has directed all party MPs to gather at his residence, 'Matoshree', on June 14 amid political speculation over 'Operation Tiger'.

Political observers view the meeting as a crucial exercise by Thackeray to ensure cohesion within the party's parliamentary ranks.

All eyes will be on Parbhani MP Sanjay alias Bandu Jadhav, whose absence from recent party meetings has fuelled speculation about his political future.

Speculation is rife that Sanjay alias Bandu Jadhav is in touch with Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

For several days, rumours have circulated that a few MPs from the Thackeray faction are in communication with Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

Reports have surfaced claiming that some of these MPs met Shinde. Leaders from the Shinde-led Shiv Sena have repeatedly suggested that several MPs aligned with Thackeray are considering a shift in political allegiance.

Hingoli MP Nagesh Patil Ashtikar recently visited Chief Minister Eknath Shinde at his official residence. Nashik MP Rajabhau Waje held a meeting with MP Shrikant Shinde. Shirdi MP Bhausaheb Wakchaure met State Industries Minister Uday Samant.

While the leaders involved have described these meetings as routine discussions related to regional development projects and funding, political observers suggest that broader political calculations may also be under discussion.

The political atmosphere has become increasingly charged following reports of political turmoil in West Bengal, triggering fresh discussions about the possibility of similar developments in Maharashtra.

Amid these developments, the opposition has intensified its criticism of the BJP-led Central government over issues such as paper leaks, alleged voter manipulation and corruption.

The Congress party launched a sharp attack on Union Home Minister Amit Shah, accusing him of using aggressive tactics to secure a two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha ahead of the upcoming Parliament Monsoon Session.

Congress leaders alleged that the BJP is focused on engineering splits within opposition parties and undermining democratic principles, claiming that such attempts to alter political equations are unprecedented.

Source: IANS

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Narsinghpur, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) A series of thefts that had rattled the Jain community in Madhya Pradesh's Narsinghpur district has been solved with the arrest of five accused and the recovery of two rare Ashtadhatu idols believed to be around 250 years old, the police said on Friday.

The breakthrough comes after months of concern over thefts at Jain temples in Ramnivari, Tendukheda and Karakbel villages, where sacred idols and other valuables had gone missing.

Beyond their monetary value, the stolen idols hold deep religious significance and are considered part of the region's cultural heritage.

Police said the investigation was launched on a priority basis after members of the Jain community and temple committees raised concerns over the thefts and sought swift action for the recovery of the idols.

Following multiple complaints from social and religious organisations, Superintendent of Police (SP) Rishikesh Meena constituted three special teams to investigate the cases.

“Officers examined crime scenes, analysed technical evidence, tracked suspects and gathered intelligence through an extensive informant network. The primary objective was not merely to solve the thefts but to ensure the safe recovery of the religious idols and restore the confidence of the community,” Meena told IANS.

During the investigation, police identified similarities in the modus operandi used in multiple thefts.

The trail eventually led investigators to habitual offender Tikku alias Tek Singh Ladiya. His interrogation and technical evidence helped police uncover a network allegedly involved in the crimes.

Police subsequently arrested Tikku, Gyani Prajapati, Ashish Sharma, Nitin Sharma and Mukesh Soni alias Chintu, who allegedly purchased the stolen property.

According to investigators, the accused confessed to their involvement in five theft cases across the district.

Apart from the two centuries-old Ashtadhatu idols, police recovered 17 silver chhatras, two silver pedestals, a silver crown, electronic equipment, two motorcycles allegedly used in the crimes and cash.

“The recovery of these idols is important because they represent faith, history and heritage. The success of this operation reflects teamwork between police personnel, technical experts and community members,” Meena said.

The recovery has brought relief to temple management committees and devotees, who had feared the priceless artefacts could have been lost forever.

Police said further investigation is underway to determine whether the gang was involved in similar crimes in neighbouring districts.

Source: IANS

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Jaipur, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Union Minister of State (MoS) for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale on Friday asserted that the Narendra Modi-led government is promoting development across the country without discrimination, providing budgetary support to all states regardless of which party is in power.

He said that Rajasthan has received substantial assistance from the Centre and credited both the Central and state governments for accelerating welfare and development initiatives.

MoS Athawale has indicated that the Centre is considering increasing the annual income limit for Economically Weaker Section (EWS) reservation from the current Rs 8 lakh to between Rs 12 lakh and Rs 15 lakh.

Speaking to media at the Khasakothi Circuit House in Jaipur, Athawale added that demands have been received from various quarters to revise the eligibility ceiling for EWS reservation.

"At present, people with an annual income below Rs 8 lakh are eligible for EWS reservation. Our Ministry, along with NITI Aayog, is examining proposals to increase the limit to Rs 12 lakh to Rs 15 lakh," he said.

Athawale noted that the 10 per cent EWS quota benefits economically weaker sections of the general category and is available to eligible persons across all religions and communities.

On rising fuel prices, the Union Minister said the Central government would consider reducing petrol and diesel rates once the prevailing international situation improves.

"There has been no shortage of petrol or diesel since the Narendra Modi government came to power. However, disruptions in the supply of petroleum products and gas due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran have put pressure on fuel prices," he added.

Athawale said that fuel and LPG prices in several neighbouring countries, including Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, are significantly higher than in India.

The MoS also defended the Centre's decision to conduct a caste census and questioned the Congress over its past record on the issue.

"The Census process was delayed because of the Covid-19 pandemic. The Union government has now decided to conduct a caste-based census. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi keeps raising questions, but he should explain why Congress governments, despite being in power for decades, never conducted one," he said.

Taking a swipe at the Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Athawale added that repeated criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi would not affect the Union government's work.

"The Modi government is committed to the welfare and upliftment of every section of society," he said.

The Union Minister added that the Centre was promoting development across all states without discrimination and was providing budgetary support irrespective of which party was in power.

"The Modi government is extending maximum assistance to Rajasthan. The Bhajan Lal Sharma government is doing good work in the state," he said.

Highlighting central welfare schemes, Athawale added that over the past 12 years, Rajasthan has witnessed the opening of 3.84 crore Jan Dhan accounts.

"Under the Mudra Yojana, 2.51 crore beneficiaries received loans, while 74.32 lakh households benefited from the Ujjwala Yojana."

He added that 95.50 lakh people in the state have been covered under the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme.

Earlier on Friday, Union Minister Athawale paid a courtesy visit to Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagde.

Source: IANS

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Bengaluru, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), Bengaluru Bench, has declared Congress MLC Naseer Ahmed bankrupt in connection with the default of loans amounting to Rs 1,454.71 crore owed by Bengaluru-based M/s Scotts Garments Limited, for which he had stood as a personal guarantor.

The order has cast uncertainty over Ahmed's continuation as a member of the Karnataka Legislative Council, with legal experts indicating that the bankruptcy declaration could attract disqualification proceedings under the applicable provisions of law.

It may be noted that under Section 140 of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) and Article 191(1)(c) of the Constitution of India, the bankruptcy declaration could expose Ahmed to disqualification as an MLC as an “undischarged insolvent”, subject to the operation and application of the relevant legal provisions.

The NCLT passed the order on Friday while hearing a petition filed by the State Bank of India (SBI), Canara Bank and IDBI Bank under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.

According to the tribunal's order, the lenders had approached the NCLT under Section 121(b) of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016, read with Rule 7 of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Rules, 2019, seeking initiation of bankruptcy proceedings against Naseer Ahmed in his capacity as the personal guarantor to the corporate debtor, M/s Scotts Garments Limited.

The banks claimed a default amount of Rs 1,454,71,57,019 (Rs 1,454.71 crore).

The loan accounts of the company had earlier been classified as non-performing assets (NPAs) by Canara Bank, SBI and IDBI Bank.

Allowing the petition, the tribunal observed that the application met the requirements under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code and ordered the commencement of bankruptcy proceedings against the personal guarantor.

“The petition filed by SBI is allowed and disposed of. Accordingly, bankruptcy proceedings are initiated against the personal guarantor,” the order stated.

The NCLT has also appointed a bankruptcy trustee and listed the matter for further proceedings on August 6, when the trustee is expected to submit a report.

Scotts Garments Limited had availed loans from the consortium of banks, with Naseer Ahmed providing a personal guarantee for the borrowings.

Following the company's failure to repay the dues, the lenders initiated insolvency proceedings against him.

The bankruptcy declaration could have significant political implications, as it may affect Ahmed's eligibility to continue as a member of the Legislative Council, subject to the interpretation and application of the relevant legal provisions.

It may be recalled that Congress MLC Naseer Ahmed was removed from his position as Political Secretary to then Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

His removal followed allegations of anti-party activities during the Davanagere South Assembly by-election.

On April 13, 2026, the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms issued a formal notification relieving Ahmed of his duties.

The action was taken at the behest of the Congress high command after Ahmed reportedly refused to step down voluntarily.

The party alleged that Ahmed, along with other leaders, worked against the official Congress candidate during the April 9, 2026, Davanagere South bypoll.

Source: IANS

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Thiruvananthapuram, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Marking 12 years of the Narendra Modi-led Union government, Kerala Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Rajeev Chandrasekhar on Friday claimed that the state had witnessed a significant development push under the Prime Minister's leadership, while accusing successive state governments of weakening Kerala's economic foundations.

Chandrasekhar said the Centre's interventions had transformed key sectors in Kerala, citing record investments in railways, road infrastructure, welfare schemes and drinking water projects.

He added that railway allocations to the state had increased tenfold during the Narendra Modi's tenure as the Prime Minister, while more than 27.5 lakh farmers had received around Rs 13,000 crore under the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme.

The BJP leader also highlighted the Centre's welfare initiatives, claiming that around 1.5 crore people in Kerala had benefited from free foodgrain distribution and that more than 22 lakh households had received new drinking water connections.

"What Kerala needs is not the politics of promises but the politics of development and economic strength," Chandrasekhar said, drawing a sharp contrast between what he termed the "Modi government's development-oriented approach and the state's current economic challenges".

Referring to Kerala's financial situation, the State BJP President added that even documents and figures presented by the state government had exposed the seriousness of the fiscal crisis.

According to Chandrasekhar, the state is paying the price for policies pursued over the years that weakened its economic base.

He also took aim at the Congress, accusing it of offering unrealistic election promises despite being aware of the state's precarious finances.

Kerala, he said, required responsible governance focused on job creation, investment attraction and long-term growth rather than politically expedient commitments.

The BJP leader said India's rise as a global technology and innovation hub under PM Modi had strengthened the country's international standing, citing advances in startups, digital infrastructure, semiconductor investments and welfare delivery.

He also pointed to Central support for projects such as the Vizhinjam port, Bharatmala highway programme, Kochi Water Metro, Ayushman Bharat and Jal Jeevan Mission, saying that these initiatives had contributed substantially to Kerala's development.

As political parties prepare for fresh electoral battles across the country, Chandrasekhar used the occasion to pitch the BJP's development model, saying Kerala's future depended on embracing economic growth, investment and infrastructure led progress in line with India's broader growth trajectory.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) The 13th BRICS Urbanisation Forum concluded on Friday at Sushma Swaraj Bhavan here with the adoption of the ministerial declaration on inclusive, resilient and people-centred urban development.

The declaration highlights key priorities shared by member nations and emphasises the importance of creating inclusive, sustainable, resilient and liveable cities that ensure equitable access to urban services, particularly for marginalised groups, according to an official statement.

The outcomes of the two-day forum are expected to contribute to a shared roadmap for BRICS nations to build cities that are inclusive, resilient, sustainable and well governed.

To take forward the learning of the BRICS Urbanisation Forum, and for continued cooperation, the member nations welcomed India's proposal for the establishment of the 'BRICS Urban Research and Knowledge Network', for applied urban research, knowledge sharing, and peer-to-peer learning.

Hosted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs under India's BRICS Chairship in 2026, the two-day forum brought together Ministers, senior government officials and urban practitioners from BRICS member nations to deliberate on the theme, 'Cities for People: BRICS Cooperation for Inclusive and Resilient Urban Futures'.

The Forum was formally inaugurated by Manohar Lal, Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs.

In his inaugural address, the Union Minister said that the forum was an opportunity to bring the urban agenda more firmly into the global development discourse, and highlighted inclusive urban development, climate- and disaster-resilient infrastructure, strengthened institutions and digital innovation as key anchors of India's urban development approach.

Union Minister Manohar Lal also released 'India's Urban Transformation: Stories of Change', a publication presenting select urban practices from India's states and Union Territories across the four priority areas of the forum.

The inaugural session was followed by a high-level plenary chaired by the Minister, where participating countries shared national experiences, priorities and aspirations for the urban future through their country statements.

Delegations also undertook a curated field visit to select urban interventions in and around New Delhi, including the New Parliament Complex and the India Gate–Kartavya Path precinct, before the day concluded with a cultural programme.

On the sidelines, bilateral meetings were held, including between India and Russia, India and Iran, Iran and Russia, Iran and China, and Russia and the United Arab Emirates.

The second day of the forum featured two high-level panel discussions on inclusive and resilient urban development, strengthening urban institutions, and scaling innovations for people-centred cities.

The first panel discussion, 'Building Inclusive Pathways for Resilient and Equitable Cities', was moderated by Roopa Mishra, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs' International Cooperation Joint Secretary.

Representatives of BRICS member nations discussed approaches to ensuring that urban growth improves access to housing, mobility, basic services, livelihoods and public spaces, particularly for vulnerable and underserved communities.

The second panel discussion, 'Strengthening Institutions and Scaling Innovations for People-centred Cities', was moderated by Shalabh Goel, National Capital Region Transport Corporation Managing Director.

Representatives of BRICS member nations exchanged experiences on strengthening urban institutions, building municipal capacity, improving coordination across levels of government, and using technology and data to enhance service delivery.

The session also considered how successful local innovations could be adapted and scaled across different urban contexts.

The forum also presented a compilation of good practices from BRICS nations, titled 'Cities for People: Urban Stories from BRICS Nations'.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Indian Railways has recruited as many as 43,781 candidates in Financial Year (FY) 2025-26 through completed recruitment cycles covering 47,084 vacancies across six major categories, reflecting the ongoing acceleration of its recruitment process, according to an official statement issued on Friday.

The recruitments were made to fill 18,799 vacancies for Assistant Loco Pilots, 14,298 for Technicians, 452 for Sub-Inspectors, 4,208 for Constables, 7,951 for Junior Engineers (JE)/Depot Material Superintendent/Chemical and Metallurgical Assistant, and 1,376 for paramedical categories.

The figures were tabled at a high-level review meeting taken up by the Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Friday with senior officials of Indian Railways on the selection process of the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB).

The Union Minister underlined the need for continuous improvement in the recruitment system through the use of technology, faster processes and greater accountability.

"Indian Railways remains firmly committed to strengthening its workforce through continuous and timely recruitment initiatives. With a clear focus on enhancing transparency, efficiency, and the use of advanced technology in the recruitment process, the organisation aims to attract and onboard talented individuals across various categories," the statement said.

"The recruitment process of the Railway Recruitment Boards is inherently complex and large-scale, with examinations conducted across multiple cities and centres nationwide. These computer- based tests are held in multiple shifts to accommodate the large volume of candidates and are conducted in as many as 15 languages to ensure accessibility for aspirants from diverse linguistic backgrounds. This multi-city, multi-shift and multilingual framework requires extensive coordination and robust technological systems to ensure fairness, standardisation and transparency across the entire recruitment process," the statement noted.

The Union Railways Minister noted that the annual recruitment calendar, coupled with quarterly notifications of vacancies, has been well received by candidates.

He said the calendar-based recruitment framework has enabled aspirants to plan their preparation more effectively.

It brings greater predictability to the recruitment process, Union Minister Vaishnaw added.

The Union Minister also reviewed the progress made in shifting departmental examinations to Computer Based Test mode and stressed that more and more tablet-based examinations should be introduced wherever feasible, so that recruitment becomes faster, more efficient and user-friendly.

Multi-language support in examinations was also highlighted, with the examinations already being conducted in multiple languages across various cities and multiple shifts, ensuring wider accessibility for candidates from diverse linguistic backgrounds across the country and enabling fair and equal participation in the recruitment process without language becoming a barrier.

The Union Minister also directed Railway Recruitment Boards to strengthen communication with candidates and stakeholders.

He also underlined that misinformation must be countered promptly with correct information, so that candidates receive accurate updates and confidence in the recruitment process remains strong.

Source: IANS

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Bhopal, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Friday announced a series of measures aimed at strengthening the state's policing and investigation framework, including a new investigation allowance for police personnel and enhanced cybercrime response mechanisms.

Reviewing the Home Department, Chief Minister Yadav said the government was committed to equipping the police force with modern resources to deal with emerging challenges.

“In these changing times, necessary resources will be provided to the police force to upgrade systems and tackle new challenges,” the Chief Minister said, directing police personnel at all levels to work with vigilance and proactivity to maintain law and order across the state.

Officials said the proposed investigation allowance would help officers meet expenses incurred during criminal investigations, including visits to crime scenes, collection of evidence, photography and videography, digital forensic work, and transportation and food arrangements for accused persons, witnesses and victims.

With cybercrime and the misuse of artificial intelligence emerging as major concerns, the Chief Minister approved the engagement of IT consultants and cyber experts to strengthen the State Cyber Cell.

The meeting also cleared ‘Safeguard MP’, an AI-based platform aimed at improving the safety of elderly citizens, women and other vulnerable groups.

Preparations for Simhastha 2028 in Ujjain were also reviewed.

Stressing the need for long-term planning, Yadav said infrastructure developed for the religious congregation should continue serving the city even after the event.

“The control rooms and other arrangements for Simhastha should be established in a manner that ensures their lasting significance and impact. Ujjain is home to numerous holy sites, including the Baba Mahakal Temple; therefore, all arrangements should be developed as permanent infrastructure,” Yadav said in a statement.

The meeting also reviewed proposals to establish the Madhya Pradesh Police Selection and Recruitment Board, deploy district-level Scene of Crime mobile units, and provide special allowances for VVIP duty.

Plans to strengthen the ATS, STF and Hawk Force through advanced training facilities were also discussed.

Source: IANS

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Bengaluru, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Strongly condemning the Congress government for issuing the final notification for land acquisition for the Bidadi township project despite intense opposition from farmers, Union Minister and Karnataka JD(S) President H.D. Kumaraswamy on Friday announced that a legal battle would be launched against what he termed an anti-farmer move.

He declared that he would fight on behalf of the farmers who stand to lose their land.

The Bidadi township row centres on the Karnataka government's plan to acquire agricultural land in and around Bidadi, near Bengaluru, for a proposed township project. The Bidadi region is located close to Bengaluru.

Amid the opposition, the Congress government led by Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar issued the final notification for land acquisition on Friday.

The Union Minister challenged Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar to accompany him to the affected villages and determine whether the owners of the land notified for acquisition under the Bidadi township project are genuine farmers or not.

“Claiming that farmers are not farmers is the height of arrogance. It is a grave insult to the very people who feed the nation. If the Chief Minister wants to know whether they are genuine farmers, let him visit those villages. I will also go there. Let the people of those villages themselves decide whether those losing their land are farmers or not,” Kumaraswamy said.

He stated that the government's decision to issue the final notification was unjustified.

“Farmers have been protesting for 470 days. The land in question is fertile agricultural land. This government is trying to seize it for a real estate venture. It is now attempting to uproot farmers from their land. FIRs are being filed against protesting farmers, while the Home Minister claims that no such FIRs have been registered. It is difficult to understand what is happening in the state. The government itself is displaying authoritarian arrogance,” he alleged.

Kumaraswamy further said that the tragedy was compounded by the fact that elected representatives, who were voted to power by the villagers, had also become part of the exercise.

“For any government notification, farmers' consent is mandatory. The government cannot proceed without their approval. Yet, despite this, it has issued the final notification and is moving to destroy farmers' livelihoods. This is unforgivable,” he said.

He claimed that 80 to 90 per cent of farmers opposed the project and that only a handful of vested interests wanted the Bidadi township.

“Farmers protesting against giving up their land are being subjected to oppression through the police and hired goons. There is plenty of barren land available elsewhere where townships can be developed. Instead, this government is conspiring to acquire the land of Bidadi residents specifically,” he alleged.

Recalling his tenure as Chief Minister, Kumaraswamy said that in 2006 he had planned five township projects, including one in Bidadi.

“However, due to strong opposition from farmers, I abandoned the proposal without hesitation. I gave up the project in the public interest. Now, this government has revived it for its own interests. It is trying to use poor people's land for a real estate business,” he charged.

Condemning Home Minister Priyank Kharge's reported statement that “we will implement the project at any cost and people may pursue legal remedies if they wish”, Kumaraswamy said the remark alone reflected the government's lack of respect for farmers.

Kumaraswamy also criticised Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar over alleged alterations to the historic Kumara Krupa Guest House.

“If this government continues for another five years, one wonders what it might do even to the Vidhana Soudha built by Kengal Hanumanthaiah,” he remarked sarcastically.

“It is a heritage structure with its own historical significance. It stands as a landmark associated with many important events and records in the state's history. It is not right to alter such a building merely on someone's advice. The enlightened citizens of the state should oppose this,” he said.

Source: IANS

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Mumbai, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Maharashtra Women Farmers Empowerment Bill, 2026, will be introduced during the forthcoming Monsoon Session to provide legal recognition to women farmers as independent farmers in the state. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday directed officials to formulate a comprehensive policy to safeguard the rights of women farmers and promote their holistic empowerment. He was speaking at a presentation on the Women Farmers Empowerment Bill.

CM Fadnavis said women account for more than 81 per cent of participation in Maharashtra’s agricultural sector. However, most agricultural policies and government schemes remain male-centric. Since land ownership is often a prerequisite for availing benefits under agricultural schemes, a large number of women farmers are excluded. Women cultivating family- or community-owned land, as well as those engaged in allied activities such as fisheries, livestock rearing, poultry farming, and the collection of forest produce, are often not recognised as farmers. It is against this backdrop that the proposed legislation has been drafted.

The Chief Minister directed that all suggestions received be incorporated into the final draft of the Bill. The legislation should aim to provide statutory recognition to women engaged in agriculture as “farmers,” establish institutional mechanisms to support their welfare, and ensure access to credit, technology, markets, and other essential services.

He further stated that, in addition to conventional farming, the Bill should cover activities such as animal husbandry, dairy farming, poultry farming, beekeeping, fisheries, sericulture, horticulture, floriculture, mushroom cultivation, agroforestry and collection of forest produce. It should also include landless farmers, tenant farmers, agricultural labourers, pastoral workers and migrant agricultural workers.

A detailed study should be undertaken to establish an effective digital system through which women farmers can access state government loan schemes, agricultural subsidies, seeds, fertilisers, crop insurance, extension services, market facilities, transportation, storage infrastructure and social security schemes. The Bill should also provide for the creation of an independent digital database of women farmers, the CM said.

CM Fadnavis emphasised that the proposal should also examine the establishment of a dedicated “Maharashtra State Women Farmers Fund” to empower women farmers, along with mechanisms to effectively implement the legislation. A strong institutional framework should be created at the district, taluka and village levels.

He further suggested that a State-Level Monitoring Committee, headed by the Chief Secretary, be constituted to oversee the implementation of the law and regularly review its progress. The proposed legislation will be a significant step toward providing millions of women farmers in the state with an independent identity, rights and opportunities, while also setting a new benchmark for gender equality in the agricultural sector, he said.

Source: IANS

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Ahmedabad, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) When Honey Patel (Sharma) received a video call from her mother shortly before Air India flight AI-171 took off from Ahmedabad for London on June 12 last year, there was nothing to suggest it would be their final conversation.

Her mother, 56-year-old Anju Sharma, had already boarded the aircraft and wanted to show it to her grandson, Dihan, who loved watching aeroplanes.

“She video-called us to show the plane because my son loves watching planes,” Honey recalled while standing at the crash site on the first anniversary of the disaster.

“She said, ‘This is Nani’s plane.’ We still have that video and her voice. Then she told us, ‘I am sitting in the plane now, beta. I will call you after I reach there," Honey told IANS.

That call never came. Anju Sharma was among those killed when the London-bound Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed seconds after take-off from Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025.

The aircraft struck the B.J. Medical College hostel complex in Meghaninagar area, killing 241 of the 242 people on board and 19 people on the ground, making it one of the deadliest aviation disasters in India's history.

The investigation remains ongoing one year later. For Honey, the tragedy was compounded by an earlier loss. Her father had died in 2021, leaving her mother as the central figure in her life.

“After Papa passed away, I only had Mamma here. My sister lives in London, so we lived like friends," she said emotionally.

The bond between mother and daughter had deepened over the years. Honey described her mother not merely as a parent but as her closest companion.

She said, “She was more than a friend. I don't have any friends. She was my friend, she was everything for me.” The day began like any other travel day. Anju was excited about visiting her family in London.

Honey spent the previous night and the morning with her mother before the journey. “She made my favourite food herself before leaving. She was so happy that she was going to London this time. They had so many plans there," she noted.

At 1.51 p.m., Honey's world changed. Her relatives in Ahmedabad called urgently, asking for her mother's flight ticket after hearing reports of a crash involving a London-bound aircraft.

“I said it couldn't be Mamma's plane. They told me there was only one London flight and asked me to send the ticket," she recalled.

After switching on television news channels and speaking to family members, the horrifying reality became clear.

Honey immediately contacted her elder sister in London. She then called her husband and, once the flight details were confirmed, the family left Vadodara for Ahmedabad.

Rather than travelling to the crash site, they were advised to go directly to Ahmedabad Civil Hospital. “We searched every floor for Mamma. We went everywhere, but we couldn't find her," she said.

Eventually, officials informed the family that nobody had survived the crash. “Then we were told that from the crash site, nobody had survived. After that, the DNA test happened," she told IANS.

The identification process took days as authorities relied heavily on DNA matching because of the condition of many victims' remains.

One year later, Honey has returned to the site. It is her third visit. Twelve days after the crash, she and her sister came to pray.

Two months later, she attended a candlelight memorial. On Friday, she returned for the first anniversary. The grief, she said, has not eased.

The family received some of Anju Sharma's belongings, including two T-shirts, a slipper and fragments of the luggage she had carried.

Other personal possessions, including jewellery and her mobile phone, were never recovered.

“We got some clothes, but not her ornaments or her mobile phone,” Honey said. The family submitted documents to Air India regarding missing belongings, but says some items remain untraced. Among them was an earring believed to belong to Anju.

“They told us many people had claimed the same item and it would only be given if there was a match,” Honey said. Ultimately, she has tried to accept the loss.

"If Mamma is not here, what can we do? Whatever belonged to her has gone with her," she said.

The loss continues to ripple through the wider family. Anju's younger brother, Milan Sharma (38), who lives in Vadodara but originally comes from Kurukshetra in Haryana, still struggles to comprehend how a routine airport farewell became his final goodbye.

“The last time I came here was to drop my sister. I never imagined I would later bring her back in a coffin," he said.

Milan described Anju not simply as an elder sibling but as a maternal figure who helped raise him after he moved to Gujarat as a child. “She was not my sister; she was my mother. I was very young when I came to live with her," he told IANS.

Anju was the eldest among eight sisters and, according to Milan, the person whose word carried weight throughout the family.

“Nobody could refuse her. Nobody could ignore what she said. We used to call her ‘Daddy’ because she was fearless and always took responsibility for everyone," he recalled.

Even now, the family remains haunted by memories of her final hours. Milan remembers receiving a video call from his sister while she waited in the airport lounge. He was travelling to Mumbai that day.

“She told me she had ordered a dosa but did not feel like eating it,” he said. He also remembers one of her final messages: “She always used to tell me to take care of myself.”

When news of the crash first emerged, the family clung to reports that some injured passengers had been taken to the hospital. “There was hope she might be among them. We stood outside the hospital with that hope," he said.

The reality proved devastating. His niece provided DNA samples, and the family received Anju's remains three days later. “There was not much left of the body,” he said quietly.

The tragedy also deeply affected Anju's elderly parents in Haryana. Milan said his father remains in bed rest and still struggles to accept the loss of his eldest daughter. “Even today, sometimes he feels she has just gone to London and will come back,” he said.

His mother, meanwhile, continues to preserve memories stretching back decades. Among them is the first dress Anju wore as a newborn.

“My mother still has that dress. She kept it all these years," he said. As speculation continues over the cause of the crash, both Honey and Milan reject suggestions that pilot error was responsible and believe a technical issue may have been involved.

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has said the investigation remains ongoing and has urged restraint over speculation until the final report is released.

For the Sharma family, however, the investigation's conclusions will not alter the central fact of their lives. Milan lost the sister he called a mother.

Honey lost the woman she called her best friend. “After Papa went, I only had Mamma,” Honey said.

Five years after losing her father and one year after losing her mother, those words capture the void left behind by a tragedy that changed her family forever.

Source: IANS

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Ahmedabad, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) A year after he lost both his wife and their unborn child in the Air India AI171 disaster, Gunjan Kumar Chaudhary returned to the Ahmedabad crash site carrying a photograph of the woman with whom he had spent 12 years of his life, saying he still wakes up at night calling out her name and remains determined to seek answers about the tragedy that shattered his family.

Standing amid the memories of one of India’s deadliest aviation disasters, the local resident paid tribute to his wife, Jaimini Chaudhary, who was two months pregnant when she boarded the London-bound flight on June 12, 2025.

The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed into the B.J. Medical College hostel complex shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad, killing 241 of the 242 people on board and 19 people on the ground.

The disaster claimed 260 lives in total and remains under investigation a year later. For Gunjan, the anniversary brought back memories of a future that never arrived.

“My wife was two months pregnant. We lost two lives together,” he said. Gunjan and Jaimini had been together for 12 years, including two years of engagement and 10 years of marriage.

Their 10th wedding anniversary was on January 25, 2025. “We were together for 12 years. I want to live with her memories. I still live in the same apartment where we lived together," he told IANS.

The couple had moved to London together in 2022 and had spent more than three years building a life there. Both were employed, with Jaimini working at Nikie Health Care Limited and Gunjan employed at Othon Chemical Limited.

According to Gunjan, they had long wanted to start a family. “We planned earlier, but my wife said first we should settle abroad and then plan for a child. After that, our child plan succeeded, and suddenly this happened. We lost everything," he said.

The couple travelled to India together on May 9 last year. Gunjan returned to London on May 21 because he had exhausted much of his annual leave after an earlier trip to India in 2024.

Jaimini remained behind because she had accumulated sufficient leave and wanted to spend more time with her family. “She came to India after three years. I did not have enough holiday, but she had enough holiday,” he recalled.

The trip had also been prompted by family concerns. Gunjan said his mother, now 64, had been experiencing health issues, while Jaimini wanted dental treatment during her stay.

“My wife said we should come home and meet everyone. My mother was not well, and she also wanted to get her teeth checked," he told IANS.

After arriving in India, the couple first stayed with Gunjan’s family before Jaimini travelled to meet her parents in Valsad. On the day of the crash, the couple spoke one last time via video call at 12:39 p.m.

“She told me, ‘I have left. Come and pick me up at London Airport,” Gunjan recalled. Within minutes, the aircraft crashed. At the time, Gunjan was at work in London. “When I heard the news, I collapsed. I fell to the floor,” he said.

One year later, Gunjan said the emotional impact remains overwhelming. Speaking to IANS, he said: “Every time I sleep, I wake up around 4 o’clock. We used to hold hands before we went to sleep. I suddenly wake up, say my wife’s name, and then realise she is not here. She has passed away. I still cannot accept it.”

Gunjan has also rejected a final compensation proposal linked to the crash, arguing that no financial calculation can adequately account for the loss of his wife and unborn child.

“They calculated it as 16 times my wife’s salary. How can they decide how long my wife would have lived? Nobody knows that. The calculation is totally wrong," he said.

Gunjan clarified that he accepted the initial assistance provided to all affected families, including the ex gratia payments announced after the crash, but rejected what he described as the final compensation offer.

He said, “The first compensation was given to everyone. I accepted that. It is the final compensation that I rejected.”

The interim package included Rs one crore from the Tata Group and additional payments from Air India.

Gunjan maintains that he will wait for the final investigation findings before deciding his next legal steps. “Only when the investigation is finished will we know whether it was Boeing, General Electric or something else. We do not know yet," he said.

He said he intends to pursue legal action independently in the United Kingdom rather than through any of the law firms representing groups of victims’ families.

“No, I am not associated with them. I will do it according to my own understanding," he asserted. His work permit in London remains valid until July 16, 2028, and he plans to pursue any future legal proceedings there.

“I will file the case individually in the UK, not in Indian courts," he confirmed to IANS. Asked whom he held responsible, Gunjan said Air India would remain central to any future legal action.

He said, “After the report, we will take action. But we will definitely proceed against Air India.”

Explaining his refusal, he added, “I do not know whose fault it is. Air India destroyed everything for me. I lost my wife and my unborn child. I lost everything.”

Gunjan said he remains unconvinced by suggestions that pilot error caused the crash. “I do not believe the pilot did this intentionally. The pilot’s job was to save people. I trust him," he said.

He said he suspects a technical issue may have played a role. “I think maybe it was an electrical failure, but I do not know the exact reason. We are waiting for proof," he added.

Asked whether he would challenge a final report that blamed human error, he replied: “Yes, we will challenge it. They say the pilot cut off a switch. Why would he do that? It is not possible. I cannot accept such a report.”

The anniversary has renewed calls from many bereaved families for answers as investigators continue to examine the causes of the disaster.

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has said the inquiry remains ongoing and has not provided a timeline for the final report.

Families gathering in Ahmedabad this week said they continue to seek clarity about how the London-bound aircraft crashed less than a minute after take-off.

For Gunjan, however, the investigation remains only one part of a loss that cannot be measured by reports, legal claims or compensation.

Source: IANS

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Itanagar, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday sought special policy interventions and enhanced central support to address the state’s unique developmental and strategic challenges during a high-level interaction of Northeastern Chief Ministers convened by NITI Aayog.

Khandu thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his continued support to the Northeast and said the Act East Policy has significantly improved connectivity, infrastructure and public confidence across the region, creating new opportunities for growth and development.

Highlighting Arunachal Pradesh’s vast geographical expanse and strategic importance, the Chief Minister stressed the need for dedicated infrastructure support to overcome challenges posed by difficult terrain and dispersed settlements. He noted that, despite being the largest Northeastern state by area, Arunachal Pradesh continues to face distinct developmental constraints that require special policy attention.

The Chief Minister informed the meeting that the state has set a target of generating 40,000 MW of hydropower by 2047 and sought coordinated support from NITI Aayog and central ministries to sustainably harness its vast hydropower potential. He also underscored the need to skill local youth and promote ancillary industries to ensure greater employment opportunities from hydropower projects.

Drawing attention to funding challenges, Khandu urged a review of population-based allocation criteria, arguing that existing mechanisms often disadvantage geographically large but sparsely populated states such as Arunachal Pradesh. He called for alternative funding parameters that take into account terrain, area and strategic significance.

On connectivity, he sought to expand the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) to include villages with populations of 250 or more, noting that several remote habitations remain unconnected despite the success of the Vibrant Villages Programme.

The Chief Minister also pointed out that Arunachal Pradesh has benefited less from externally aided projects compared to several other Northeastern states and requested NITI Aayog to explore mechanisms to bridge the gap.

Seeking institutional support, Khandu informed the meeting about the establishment of the Institute of Transforming Arunachal and sought NITI Aayog's guidance in developing it into a premier policy and governance think tank.

He highlighted governance initiatives such as Sarkar Aapke Dwar, Seva Aapke Dwar and Cabinet Aapke Dwar, which have improved citizen outreach by delivering government services directly to remote villages.

On administrative reforms, Khandu strongly advocated the creation of a separate All India Services (AIS) cadre for Arunachal Pradesh, stating that frequent transfers under the existing arrangement affect continuity in governance and policy implementation. He proposed a joint cadre arrangement with Mizoram, a suggestion that received support from Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma.

The Chief Minister also proposed empowering the North Eastern Council (NEC) to function as the “NITI Aayog of the Northeast” to strengthen regional planning and address region-specific developmental priorities.

During the meeting, NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Suman Bery appreciated Arunachal Pradesh's human capital and suggested strengthening Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) through partnerships with major hydropower companies. He assured support in taking up the state's concerns with relevant ministries.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma lauded Arunachal Pradesh's hydropower policies and stressed the importance of sustainable utilisation of natural resources.

Khandu reaffirmed Arunachal Pradesh’s commitment to cooperative federalism and said the state would continue working closely with NITI Aayog, the NEC and the Centre to ensure inclusive and sustainable development.

Source: IANS

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Guwahati, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Assam is steadily emerging as a major logistics and cargo hub in the Northeast, with cargo handling at Guwahati Airport registering a significant 15.1 pc year-on-year growth during the financial year 2025-26, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Friday.

Highlighting the state’s growing role in regional trade and connectivity, Sarma, in a post on social media platform X, said Assam is rapidly positioning itself as a logistics powerhouse capable of supporting industrial growth and expanding business opportunities.

“Assam is rapidly emerging as a logistics hub in the region. Last year, Guwahati Airport witnessed a 15.1 pc year-on-year jump in cargo handled at 33,555.99 metric tonnes,” the Chief Minister said.

According to data shared by Sarma, cargo handled at the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport increased from 29,155 metric tonnes in 2024-25 to 33,555.99 metric tonnes in 2025-26, reflecting the growing demand for efficient freight movement and improved supply chain infrastructure in the state.

The Chief Minister said the growth in cargo traffic is an encouraging indicator of Assam’s expanding economic activity and its increasing integration with domestic and international markets. He added that as the state looks to industrialise and expand opportunities, the government aims to build on this momentum and boost the cargo logistics sector.

The state government has been focusing on strengthening Assam’s logistics ecosystem through investments in transport infrastructure, multimodal connectivity and export-oriented initiatives. Improved road, rail, inland waterway and air connectivity are expected to further enhance the movement of goods across the Northeast and beyond.

Industry observers believe the rise in cargo volumes at Guwahati Airport reflects growing business confidence, increased movement of agricultural and industrial products and the strategic importance of Assam as a gateway to Southeast Asia under India’s Act East policy.

The latest growth figures come amid the state government’s efforts to attract investments, promote manufacturing and create employment opportunities through infrastructure-led development. Officials say enhanced cargo-handling capacity will play a crucial role in supporting Assam’s ambitions to become a key trade and logistics centre in the region.

Source: IANS

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Mumbai, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday directed that all rural water supply schemes in Maharashtra should be gradually shifted to solar energy amid rising outstanding electricity bills of many operational water supply schemes across the state. At the meeting, he also instructed the department to formulate a comprehensive policy for the same.

CM Fadnavis said a solar energy policy should be prepared by the Maharashtra Energy Development Agency for all schemes, taking into account factors such as the water source, the number of beneficiaries dependent on the scheme, the capacity of the motor pumps, and the total electricity units required.

He emphasised that no water supply scheme in the state should be shut down due to unpaid electricity bills. Schemes should also be completed in accordance with the Central Government norm of providing 55 litres of water per person per day.

He further directed that taluka-level units should be established for the repair and maintenance of all regional and independent rural water supply schemes. Gram Panchayats should be involved in these units. Maintenance and repair expenses should be met through water tax collections. In areas where water tax recovery is low, funds should be provided from local self-government institutions. Such units would reduce maintenance costs and ensure that schemes remain operational, he added.

The Chief Minister directed that a panel of agencies be prepared at the taluka level for the maintenance and repair of water supply schemes. Based on resolutions passed by Gram Sabhas, agencies from this panel should be engaged for maintenance work. This system would ensure that no water supply scheme becomes defunct due to a lack of repairs.

He stressed that water sources for rural water supply schemes must be sustainable. New sources should not have to be identified repeatedly after short intervals, as this diminishes the utility of investments already made in earlier schemes. Funds are available under the VBG Ramji Scheme for strengthening water sources, and these resources should be utilised to reinforce existing sources. This would ensure that water supply schemes continue to operate at full capacity in the future, he said.

Regarding restoration and reconnection schemes, CM Fadnavis directed that schemes with more than 50 per cent work completed should be provided with funds and completed. He also instructed that schemes completed 100 per cent under the Jal Jeevan Mission should be verified.

Under the Jal Jeevan Mission, solar systems have already been included in the original estimates of 11,643 schemes. Across the state, solar systems have been proposed for 22,185 water supply schemes.

Source: IANS

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Agartala, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Friday presented the state’s key development priorities and growth vision during an interactive session convened by NITI Aayog with the Chief Ministers and Chief Secretaries of the Northeastern states.

The meeting was attended by NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Ashok Kumar Lahiri and other members of the policy think tank.

Addressing the session, Saha expressed gratitude to NITI Aayog for its continued guidance and support to Tripura and the Northeastern region. He said the state’s Vision Document, Lakshya 2047, seeks to build an “Unnato and Shreshtho” future-ready Tripura through improved governance, institutional strengthening and optimal utilisation of available resources.

Highlighting Tripura’s recent achievements, the Chief Minister said the state has made significant progress in governance reforms, digital transformation, investment promotion, healthcare, education, innovation and entrepreneurship.

He noted that Tripura secured the top rank among all states and J&K in Deregulation and Compliance Reduction in both Phase-I and Phase-II, reflecting the government’s commitment to ease of doing business and administrative efficiency.

Saha also highlighted efforts to strengthen the state’s institutional ecosystem through initiatives such as the Tripura Institution for Transformation, the Tripura Urban Planning and Development Authority, the Investment Promotion Agency of Tripura and the Good Governance Department.

He said these institutions have played a crucial role in improving policymaking, facilitating investments and enhancing public service delivery.

Outlining the state’s future priorities, the Chief Minister stressed the need for enhanced regional and international connectivity, the promotion of the Northeast as an integrated investment destination, the development of Agartala as an AI City, and the positioning of Tripura as a leading pharmaceutical and MedTech hub.

He also underlined the state’s immense potential in the natural fibres sector and called for stronger collaboration with national and international incubation centres to boost innovation, entrepreneurship and value-added manufacturing.

Seeking support for critical infrastructure projects, Saha urged the early operationalisation of the Sabroom-Ramgarh Integrated Check Post and the Agartala-Akhaura railway link.

He also sought the introduction of direct Agartala-Chittagong flight services, the revival of Kailashahar Airport, the strengthening of railway infrastructure, and the commencement of Vande Bharat Express services between Agartala and Guwahati to further improve connectivity and economic integration.

On the healthcare front, the Chief Minister said patient referrals outside the state have reduced considerably due to improvements in medical infrastructure and services. He informed the meeting that Tripura’s Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) has declined from 17 to 12 per 1,000 live births during the last three years, reflecting notable progress in maternal and child healthcare.

Reiterating the state government’s demand for the establishment of an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Agartala, Saha also sought enhanced financial support under Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) and the Chief Minister Jan Arogya Yojana (CM-JAY).

The Chief Minister further proposed upgrading the Netaji Subhash Regional Coaching Centre in Agartala into a National Academy for Gymnastics, Football, Judo, and Swimming to strengthen sports infrastructure and nurture young talent.

In addition, he advocated the organisation of a multi-stage North East Cycling Race, modelled on the Tour de France, saying such an event would promote sports, adventure tourism, regional integration and economic activity across the region.

Reaffirming Tripura’s commitment to the collective development of the Northeast and the national vision of Viksit Bharat, Saha expressed confidence that the deliberations and policy guidance provided by NITI Aayog would further accelerate the state’s development trajectory.

He said Tripura remains committed to working closely with the Centre and other Northeastern states to unlock new opportunities for growth, investment and prosperity across the region.

Source: IANS

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Hyderabad, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Searches conducted by Directorate of Enforcement (ED) in Hyderabad on Thursday in connection with the transport scam linked to Andhra Pradesh liquor scam led to seizure of a luxury car, costly watches valued at Rs 94.5 lakh and unaccounted cash.

Incriminating documents including suspicious joint venture agreements, unaccounted cash transactions, property documents were recovered and seized, ED said in a release on Friday.

The Central agency conducted searches under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) at five premises of Kesireddy Rajashekhar Reddy alias Raj Kesireddy, Dontireddy Vasudeva Reddy, Vijaya Narasimha Reddy, Vallu Sandeep and Karumuri Nageswara Rao and Karumuri Sunil Kumar

Based on the investigation conducted so far, ED Hyderabad Zonal Office arrested former IT advisor to the government of Andhra Pradesh, Raj Kesireddy and former Managing Director Andhra Pradesh State Beverages Corporation Ltd. (APSBCL) Vasudeva Reddy under the provisions of PMLA, 2002. Both were produced before the Special Court (PMLA), which sent them to judicial custody till June 25.

ED investigation revealed that Kessireddy emerged as the principal conspirator and controlling mind behind the organized financial crime relating to the manipulation of liquor transportation tenders floated by APSBCL.

It has emerged that, by leveraging his political influence and by utilizing his position and influence as former IT Advisor to the Government of Andhra Pradesh, he entered into a criminal conspiracy with the then Managing Director of APSBCL, Vasudeva Reddy, and his close associate, Tukekula Eswar Kiran Kumar Reddy, for the purpose of subverting the established transportation policy framework of APSBCL and deriving unlawful pecuniary gains therefrom.

ED said that it initiated investigation on the basis of FIR registered by CID, Andhra Pradesh under various sections of IPC and the BNS on the basis of complaint of Additional Secretary to Government of Andhra Pradesh (Vigilance), for loss to the Government exchequer to the tune of Rs. 195.33 crore.

ED investigation revealed that the liquor transport tender conditions of APSBCL were deliberately modified and tailored in favour of selected entities, namely Sigma Supply Chain Solutions Pvt. Ltd. (SSCSPL) and subsequently Prasad Transports, which acted merely as front entities while the actual operational and financial control remained with persons associated with Kesireddy, Vasudeva Reddy and their associates.

ED investigation further revealed that the liquor cartel devised a mechanism to generate unlawful gains through the transportation of liquor from depots to retail outlets in Andhra Pradesh.

Kesireddy, Tukekula Eswar Kiran Kumar Reddy and Anjani Kumar, in active connivance with Vasudeva Reddy, the then Managing Director of APSBCL, abused their influence to secure liquor transportation tender at rates substantially higher than the prevailing rates, thereby generating proceeds of crime.

The investigation revealed that SSCSPL was used as a front entity to participate in the tender process and to obtain the contract through manipulated tender process. However, the actual execution and operational control of the transportation work was carried out by Kiran Kumar Reddy and his associates, who functioned under the direct supervision and control of Kesireddy.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi/Kohima, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Friday said that the tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed among the Centre, Assam and Nagaland would facilitate mineral oil exploration and production activities in the disputed belt along the Assam-Nagaland border while ensuring cooperation among all stakeholders.

Addressing the NITI Aayog meeting with Chief Ministers of the eight Northeastern states in New Delhi, the Chief Minister also expressed optimism that the initiative would unlock economic opportunities and contribute to the country's energy security.

He further stated that efforts are underway for the resumption of petroleum and natural gas exploration and production activities in Nagaland.

In the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the tripartite MoU was signed in New Delhi on Thursday to facilitate mineral oil operations in the Assam-Nagaland boundary areas.

The Home Minister had stated that the agreement would open up significant opportunities for oil and natural gas exploration as well as mineral mining, while removing a major hurdle in realising PM Modi’s vision of a prosperous and economically vibrant Northeast.

The Chief Minister, at Friday's NITI Aayog meeting, highlighted the state's key development priorities and sought continued support from the Government of India and NITI Aayog.

Expressing gratitude to NITI Aayog for its continued support towards Nagaland's development initiatives, Rio acknowledged the institution's contribution to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, the Aspirational Districts and Aspirational Blocks Programmes, the Sampoornata Abhiyan and the establishment of the Nagaland Institute of Transformation (NIoT).

The Chief Minister stated that despite significant progress achieved over the past two decades, Nagaland continues to face fiscal and infrastructural challenges as a resource-constrained and revenue-deficit state.

He expressed concern over the discontinuation of Revenue Deficit Grants under the Sixteenth Finance Commission and requested NITI Aayog's support for the provision of annual Special Grants during the Commission's award period to ensure fiscal sustainability and continuity of essential public services.

Highlighting connectivity as a key driver of economic transformation, Rio sought support for the Foothill Road (Trans-Nagaland Highway), strengthening of air connectivity through the development of short landing strips at strategic locations, extension of the Dimapur-Zubza railway line up to Kohima, early sanction of the Dimapur-Tizit Railway Project and development of inland waterways in the state.

The Chief Minister also sought support for major urban infrastructure projects, including the construction of flyovers and elevated corridors in Dimapur, Kohima and Chumoukedima to address growing traffic congestion and urbanisation challenges.

In the areas of education and healthcare, Rio requested support for the establishment of an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Nagaland and strengthening of tertiary healthcare infrastructure in the state.

He also sought financial assistance for the Nagaland Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Kohima.

Highlighting the proposed Nagaki City in Chumoukedima district as a major economic transformation initiative, Rio sought special consideration for the development of core infrastructure to facilitate investment and accelerate implementation of the project.

The Chief Minister further sought support for the expansion of coffee cultivation, promotion of agarwood-based livelihoods, implementation of hydroelectric projects and enhancement of sports infrastructure and youth development programmes across the state.

Reaffirming Nagaland's commitment to the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047, the Chief Minister said the state looks forward to continued partnership with NITI Aayog, the Government of India and other Northeastern states in advancing inclusive and sustainable development.

Source: IANS

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Dharamsala, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) With the opening One Day International (ODI) match between India and Afghanistan is slated on Saturday at the iconic cricket stadium in Dharamsala, one of the most beautiful grounds located at an altitude of 4,000 feet above sea level, cricket and spirituality came together in a unique Himachali way.

Former Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) President and Member of Parliament Anurag Thakur accompanying cricket body office-bearers on Friday sought blessings of the revered Lord Indrunag deity so that rain doesn't play a spoilsport as the Meteorological Department predicted rain and thundershowers.

The temple dedicated to the rain god is located in hills overlooking the stadium.

Cricket fans, too, participated in the prayers. For generations, Lord Indrunag has been regarded as the protector of the Kangra Valley and a divine guardian associated with favourable weather and overall prosperity.

Seeking the blessings before major international matches has become a cherished tradition, reflecting the unique bond between cricket, culture and faith in Dharamsala, the abode of Tibetan spiritual leader The Dalai Lama, an HPCA functionary told IANS.

The stadium, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, has 12 corporate boxes, each having a seating capacity of 20 seats. Each box was much in demand in all the previous matches, both international and T20.

A Met official in Shimla said widespread rains and thundershowers might occur in the region till June 14 due to fresh Western disturbance over north Pakistan and adjoining Jammu and Kashmir.

"Sustained wind with a speed 40-50 km per hour is likely to prevail in state's Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti districts till June 13," he added.

Meanwhile, the cricket fever across Dharamsala is electrifying as fans from across the country are set to descend to witness the match.

Former Indian captain Rohit Sharma, captain Shubman Gill, along with several other Indian stars, have already arrived here, further fuelling excitement among cricket lovers.

Fresh snowfall this week on the stadium's overlooking majestic Dhauladhar ranges has transformed the mountains chucking with a breathtaking panorama.

The snow-clad peaks have once again reminded the fans that why Dharamsala's showpiece stadium is widely regarded as the most beautiful venue on the planet.

With crystal-clear mountain air, pleasant weather and unmatched Himalayan vistas, the ODI promises to be far more than a cricket match, it will be a celebration of sport, culture, spirituality and nature.

Speaking on the occasion, HPCA Secretary Manuj Sharma told the media that with the blessings of Indrunag deity all preparations for the match have been completed and the association is looking forward to hosting another memorable international fixture.

Former Union Minister Anurag Thakur said this cricket stadium has become one of Himachal Pradesh's greatest ambassadors on the global stage.

"From its humble beginnings to becoming one of the most admired cricket venues in the world, Dharamsala has showcased the beauty, culture and hospitality of Himachal Pradesh to millions across the globe. International matches have generated employment, strengthened tourism and brought immense pride to the people of the state. The HPCA has consistently delivered world-class events, and tomorrow's ODI will be another memorable chapter in this remarkable journey," an elated Thakur, the brain behind the stadium, said.

"It is a matter of pride that Dharamsala continues to host some of the most prestigious matches in world cricket. The response from fans has been overwhelming, and we are confident that tomorrow's match will be a memorable experience for players and spectators alike," he added.

Incidentally, the last international match at the HPCA Stadium between India and South Africa -- a T20I -- was washed out without a ball being bowled in September 2019.

HPCA Spokesperson Mohit Sood told IANS that in case of rain, the ground would be ready in less than two hours.

"Our drainage system is very effective to drain out rainwater. Also, we have water soaking machines and a lightweight plastic cover for covering the entire ground," he said.

Stadium's air evacuation system will not only mob up excess rainwater within no time, but also helps aerate the root zone which keeps the plant healthy all throughout.

The SIS Air evacuation system is a technology developed by SIS Pitches Holland, a UK-based company, installed by its India partner GreaterTEN of Mumbai.

With the excitement soaring high, members of the local hospitality industry see good business prospects. They say this weekend will be giving an opportunity to cricket fans to enjoy "chilly" weather amid prevailing heatwave conditions in plains.

The mighty Dhauladhar peaks in the stadium's backdrop, the nearby British-era tea estates and the spiritual pull of globetrotting Buddhist monk, The Dalai Lama, are going to give cricket buffs a time to relax and introspect.

(Vishal Gulati can be contacted at vishal.g@ians.in)

Source: IANS

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Guwahati, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday flagged off a consignment of Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged Tezpur litchis bound for Singapore, marking another milestone in the state's efforts to expand the global footprint of its premium agricultural produce.

The Chief Minister ceremonially launched the export of 500 kg of the famed “Piyaji” variety of litchi at the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati.

The shipment comes shortly after Assam successfully exported GI-tagged Tezpur litchis to Dubai, reflecting growing international demand for the fruit and strengthening the state's agricultural export profile.

Addressing reporters after the event, Sarma said Tezpur litchis have steadily carved a niche for themselves in overseas markets over the past few years.

He noted that around 2,000 kg of the fruit was recently exported to Dubai through the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).

“The 500-kg consignment flagged off today will be transported to Singapore via a Druk Air flight operating from Bhutan through Guwahati. The Singapore High Commissioner has also expressed interest in procuring another 500 kg of Tezpur litchis,” he said.

The Chief Minister said Assam possesses immense potential to export several of its unique agricultural products, including Kaji Nemu, Bhut Jolokia and litchis, to international markets.

He added that products such as jackfruit and ginger could also emerge as important export commodities if quality standards and production protocols are maintained.

“Exports require strict compliance with prescribed standards, including the scientific use of fertilisers and consistency in production practices. Assam has significant potential in ginger cultivation, and the government will make special efforts to increase exports of agricultural produce in the coming years,” Sarma said.

Highlighting production constraints, the Chief Minister said Tezpur litchis are currently harvested from only around 3,000 trees.

Given the fruit's popularity across Assam and other parts of the country, larger export volumes could not be achieved this year despite rising overseas demand.

He also revealed that he had recently sent Tezpur litchis to PM Modi and several Union ministers, who appreciated the fruit's quality and taste.

Sarma expressed confidence that the export initiative would encourage more farmers to take up litchi cultivation and reaffirmed the government's commitment to creating new international market opportunities, boosting farmers' incomes and showcasing Assam's distinctive agricultural products on the global stage.

Agriculture Minister Pijush Hazarika and senior Agriculture Department officials were also present at the event.

Source: IANS

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Hyderabad, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has said that the BJP works for the next generation and not the next election.

“We are not concerned about the next election, but rather the next generation,” he said while addressing the ‘Viksit Bharat Sankalp Sammelan’ in Secunderabad on Friday.

He claimed that there is a difference between the BJP’s words and actions. “In all the states where the BJP is in power, all illegal intruders are being driven out. This work has also begun in West Bengal,” he said.

He stated that in politics, a leader's greatest asset is credibility.

“If any political party has accepted the challenge posed by the crisis of credibility in Indian politics, it is the BJP. You must have recently witnessed in West Bengal how the public dealt a crushing blow to those who betrayed their trust,” he said.

The Defence Minister claimed that over the past 12 years, during times of crisis, India has emerged as the world's most trusted partner.

“Whenever a disaster strikes anywhere, India is the first to arrive with help. Today, India's identity is recognised across the world as the ‘Viswa Bandhu’. But this does not mean that anyone should mistake our efforts for peace, our tolerance and our goodwill for weakness. Our enemies must not forget that while the Viswa Bandhu has vaccines, it also has BrahMos,” he said.

Praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh claimed that his entire life is an epitome of honesty and integrity.

He recalled that upon becoming Prime Minister, PM Modi had made it clear that he would neither engage in corruption nor allow anyone else to do so.

The Union minister said that the foremost and fundamental condition for any leader to continuously gain people's support is honesty.

“Modiji served as the Chief Minister of Gujarat for 13 years and has been serving the public as Prime Minister for the past 12 years. His entire life has been an example of honesty and integrity. He has spent his whole life with utmost simplicity.”

Rajnath Singh said that before the BJP came to power, the country witnessed a series of scams.

“During the Congress government's tenure, hardly a day went by without news of a scam; the country suffered losses amounting to lakhs of crores of rupees due to scandals such as the coal scam, the 2G scam and the Commonwealth Games scam,” he said.

He also referred to the alleged defence scams during the Congress rule.

“Before 2014, the country witnessed the Bofors scandal, the HDW submarine scam, the Tatra truck scam and the AgustaWestland helicopter scam. The helicopters involved were used by our armed forces personnel in carrying out their duties to protect the nation. Over the years, India’s defence budget has increased significantly. When I took charge as Defence Minister, the budget was around Rs 2.5 lakh crore. Today, it stands at approximately Rs 8 lakh crore,” he said.

Rajnath Singh slammed the Congress party for raising questions about the Election Commission, Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR).

“Wins and losses are common in elections, but whenever the Congress loses, it starts raising questions about EVMs, SIR and the Election Commission. Instead of misleading the public, they should reflect on how they've lost the people's trust due to their false claims and wrong policies. That's precisely why they keep losing elections consistently. But the BJP has always respected the sentiments of the people and the dignity of the Constitution.”

He alleged that the Congress party's politics is based on the notion that the country is the estate of a family.

“Rahul Gandhi also considers himself the natural successor to the post of Prime Minister. This is the difference between the BJP and the Congress. They consider themselves rulers, while we consider ourselves servants of the people. Our party has always instilled in us the ethos that service to the people is service to the divine.”

Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy, Telangana BJP President N. Ramchander Rao and other BJP leaders also addressed the programme.

Source: IANS

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Bengaluru, June 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) A suspected terrorist and accused in the Bengaluru's 2008 Madiwala bomb blast case died on Friday due to hart attack before the court could pronounce its judgment in the long-pending case.

It can be noted that the 2008 Bengaluru serial bomb blasts were a series of seven coordinated low-intensity improvised explosive device explosions that struck the city, including a fatal blast at the Madiwala police checkpost bus stand on Hosur Road.

The attacks tragically killed two people -- including a woman at the Madiwala bus shelter -- and injured several others.

The deceased, suspected terrorist 60-year-old Abdul Khader, was lodged in judicial custody at Parappana Agrahara Central Prison in Bengaluru since 2010 in connection with the blast case.

According to prison authorities, Khader's health suddenly deteriorated on Friday, following which he was being rushed to the Jayadeva Hospital for treatment.

However, he reportedly suffered a heart attack on the way to the hospital and died before medical assistance could be provided.

Prison officials said Khader had complained of health issues, prompting authorities to immediately shift him to the hospital.

After his death, the body was sent to Victoria Hospital for post-mortem examination. His family members have been informed about the incident.

The trial against Khader was in its final stages, and the court was expected to pronounce its verdict in the case within the next few days. However, the accused passed away before the court judgment could be delivered.

A native of Virajpet in Madikeri district, Abdul Khader was facing charges in connection with the 2008 serial bomb blast case in Bengaluru. He had been arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) as part of the investigation into the explosions.

The Madiwala blast was among a series of explosions that rocked Bengaluru in 2008, triggering extensive investigations by security agencies.

On July 25, 2008, multiple crude timer devices exploded within a 30-minute window. One of the primary sites was the Madiwala checkpost, and the injured were treated at the nearby St. John's Hospital.

Investigators determined the bombings were orchestrated allegedly by the banned extremist outfit SIMI (Students Islamic Movement of India) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

The Karnataka Police and the NIA registered multiple FIRs and arrested dozens of suspects over the years.

Several key individuals, including alleged handlers in Pakistan, were identified.

Source: IANS

The post Suspected terror accused in 2008 Bengaluru bomb blast case dies of heart attack appeared first on Social News XYZ.