Kolkata, July 14 (SocialNews.XYZ) Seven persons, including a woman, were arrested and around Rs 2.20 crore in unaccounted cash was seized following a marathon overnight raid conducted by multiple units of the Bidhannagar City Police at a private guesthouse in New Town on the northern outskirts of Kolkata, officials said on Tuesday.

The joint operation, which began on Monday night and continued till Tuesday morning, was carried out by officers from the detective department of Bidhannagar City Police, Techno City Police Station, and Bidhannagar Cyber Crime Police Station after receiving specific intelligence inputs about large quantities of cash and gold stored at the premises.

The police are investigating where the huge amount of money came from and for what purpose it was kept in the premises of the guest house. Investigators are also probing whether there was a plan to launder the money through hawala. The police have arrested seven people from the guest house. They are being questioned.

On receiving the input, the officers of the joint team reached the guest house on Monday night. Soon, a search operation began. It was alleged that the money hoarded there was obtained from cyber fraud. According to police, an investigation was launched based on the complaint, which resulted in the discovery of a huge amount of cash and gold.

Investigating officers are questioning the owner of the guest house and other occupants to ascertain the origin of the seized assets and identify those involved in the alleged operation.

The detectives of Bidhannagar Police Commissionerate are taking all necessary steps while carrying out the investigation.

Several documents have been seized for examination by the police, while four vehicles found at the premises have also been taken into custody as part of the investigation.

All seven arrested persons are being interrogated as police seek to uncover the broader network behind the cash and gold recovery. The investigation is continuing.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, July 14 (SocialNews.XYZ) In a major development in its ongoing probe into large-scale homebuyer fraud, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed its 16th chargesheet against M/s Saha Infratech Pvt Ltd, its director, and officials of HDFC Bank Ltd and ICICI Bank Ltd for their alleged involvement in fraudulent activities linked to a housing project in Noida, according to an official statement issued on Tuesday.

The chargesheet has been filed before the Special Judge for CBI Cases at the Rouse Avenue District Court (RADC), New Delhi.

The CBI investigation revealed that the accused builder company and its director allegedly conspired with bank officials and other private individuals to induce homebuyers and investors through false assurances and misleading representations. The accused are alleged to have secured financial gains through illegal and deceptive means.

According to the agency, substantial evidence gathered during the investigation led to the filing of the chargesheet under relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of Corruption Act. The charges include criminal conspiracy, abuse of official position, cheating and criminal breach of trust.

The CBI is currently investigating 33 other cases registered pursuant to directions issued by the Supreme Court against various builder companies and unidentified officials of financial institutions across the country. These cases involve allegations of cheating homebuyers and diversion of funds.

So far, the agency has filed 15 chargesheets against several real estate firms, including Rudra Buildwell Constructions Pvt Ltd, Dream Procon Pvt Ltd, Jaypee Infratech Ltd, AVJ Developers (India) Pvt Ltd, CHD Developers Pvt Ltd, Sequel Buildcon Pvt Ltd, Logix City Developers Pvt Ltd, Manju J Homes India Ltd, Shubhkamna Buildtech Pvt Ltd, Ninex Developers Ltd, Decent Buildwell Pvt Ltd, Rudra Buildwell Projects Pvt Ltd, Ithaca Estate Pvt Ltd and LGCL Urban Homes (India) LLP, along with their directors and officials of certain banks and financial institutions.

The CBI reiterated its commitment to ensuring accountability in cases involving economic offences, corruption and public fraud, particularly those adversely affecting the interests of common citizens and homebuyers.

Source: IANS

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Ahmedabad, July 14 (SocialNews.XYZ) Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi on Tuesday participated in the traditional Maha Aarti and Netrotsav ceremonies at the historic Jagannath Temple in Ahmedabad's Jamalpur area, marking a key religious observance ahead of the 149th Jagannath Rath Yatra scheduled on July 16.

Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi attended the ceremonies, hoisted the temple flag and participated in the Maha Aarti. He offered prayers before Lord Jagannath and sought blessings for the well-being of the people of Gujarat.

Energy and Ahmedabad district in-charge Minister Rushikesh Patel also attended the event.

The Netrotsav ceremony was performed following the conclusion of the 15-day Anasar period, during which the deities are kept away from public view after the ceremonial bathing festival.

As part of the ritual, silk bands were traditionally tied over the eyes of the deities in the sanctum sanctorum during the 'Navayauvan Darshan', symbolising the Lord's return in renewed form.

Devotees also witnessed the deities adorned in the traditional Sonavesh (golden attire).

The Ahmedabad Rath Yatra, organised by the Jagannath Temple since 1878, is regarded as one of India's largest chariot festivals after the Puri Rath Yatra and is among Gujarat's most significant religious events.

The procession begins from the Jamalpur temple and follows its traditional route through the old city before returning to the shrine, attracting lakhs of devotees every year.

A key feature of the yatra is its halt at Saraspur, which is traditionally regarded as the maternal home of Lord Jagannath, where devotees offer a ceremonial feast to the deities and the procession.

The three wooden chariots carrying Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra are traditionally pulled by members of the Khalasi community. The procession also features decorated elephants, akhadas, devotional music groups, tableaux and sadhus from different parts of the country.

Officials said elaborate arrangements have been made to ensure the 149th Rath Yatra is conducted peacefully and securely.

Authorities have deployed more than 31,000 police personnel along the route, supported by drones, rooftop observation points, body-worn cameras and other technology-driven surveillance systems.

Traffic restrictions and no-parking zones have also been notified along the procession route as part of crowd management measures.

The ceremonies at the Jagannath Temple were attended by Ahmedabad Mayor Hitesh Barot, MP, MLAs, Deputy Mayor Anju Shah, Director General of Police (DGP) G.S. Malik, Ahmedabad Police Commissioner Anupam Singh Gahlaut, Municipal Commissioner Banchhanidhi Pani, city BJP president Prerak Shah, Standing Committee Chairman Kamlesh Patel, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Sanjeev Kumar, former Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel, Jagannath Temple Mahant Dilipdasji Maharaj, trustees, civic office-bearers and a large number of devotees.

Source: IANS

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Jaipur, July 14 (SocialNews.XYZ) Former Veena Cassettes founder and noted cultural patron K.C. Maloo, widely regarded as one of the foremost champions of Rajasthani language, folk music and cultural heritage, passed away after a heart attack late Monday night. He was 80.

His last rites will be performed on Tuesday at 4.30 p.m. The funeral procession will commence from his residence, Maloo House, Shanti Path, Parshvanath Colony, Nirman Nagar, Jaipur, and proceed to Purani Chungi Moksha Dham.

Born in 1946 in Sujangarh, Churu district, KC Maloo devoted his life to the preservation and promotion of Rajasthan’s rich cultural traditions.

Through Veena Cassettes, he recorded and distributed thousands of Rajasthani folk songs, devotional compositions, and cultural performances, helping preserve the state's musical heritage while providing a platform to countless emerging artists.

A committed advocate for the recognition of the Rajasthani language, Maloo remained actively associated with the long-standing movement to include Rajasthani in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India.

He also met Prime Minister Narendra Modi as part of a delegation advocating for the language's official recognition.

One of his most significant contributions came during Rajasthan's severe drought in 1987, when he organised the historic 'Lata Mangeshkar Night' in Jaipur. The concert raised approximately Rs 1.01 crore for drought relief. Legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar performed without charging any fee, while renowned artists Mohammed Aziz, Nitin Mukesh, and Usha Mangeshkar also participated.

For his outstanding contributions to art and culture, KC Maloo received several prestigious recognitions, including the Samagra Kala Sadhana Award and the Dagar Gharana Award.

The Government of Rajasthan also honoured him with the Rajasthan Ratna Award in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to preserving and promoting Rajasthani music, language, and folk traditions over several decades. Just a week before his passing, Maloo had met former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot at his residence.

The passing of KC Maloo has drawn heartfelt tributes from leaders and members of the cultural fraternity across the country. Among those expressing condolences were Grammy Award-winning musician Vishwa Mohan Bhatt, former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, BJP State President Madan Rathore, Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, and several eminent personalities from the fields of art, literature, and social service. Vishwa Mohan Bhatt described Maloo as an unparalleled patron of folk music whose contribution would be remembered for generations.

Ashok Gehlot noted that he had met Maloo only a week earlier and said his lifelong dedication to music gave Rajasthani songs a distinct identity across India and around the world.

MLA Gopal Sharma described Maloo's life as an extraordinary example of selfless public service and cultural dedication carried out without government assistance. Maloo conducted extensive research on traditional Rajasthani wedding songs and compiled 221 songs into two comprehensive volumes, regarded as one of the world's largest documented collections of wedding songs.

Published in Hindi, English, and Rajasthani, the collection was further preserved through 24 audio-video CDs. Over his lifetime, he prepared manuscripts and audio recordings of more than 5,000 Rajasthani folk songs, creating an enduring archive for future generations. Through iconic albums featuring classics such as Ghoomar, Cheermi, and Kangasiyo, he brought Rajasthan's folk traditions to audiences across India and abroad.

He also established Sur-Sangam, a leading institution dedicated to indigenous music, and strengthened Veena Music as one of the country's most respected platforms for Rajasthani folk music.

Working alongside legendary composer Naushad, he played a pivotal role in elevating the stature of Rajasthani folk music by bringing together celebrated artists from across the nation.

KC Maloo leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of cultural preservation, artistic excellence, and unwavering commitment to Rajasthan's language and folk traditions. His contributions will continue to inspire generations of artists, researchers, and cultural enthusiasts.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, July 14 (SocialNews.XYZ) The feminine, leaving aside the sacred feminine motif present in several religions, is not just a concept of the human condition but rather a facet of creation itself, given its role in gestation and nurturing. Even if it is viewed as half of the equation of life, it unfortunately does not reflect in the social configuration, or the infamous patriarchy, which long deprived women of their due status and agency.

In the Indian context, the question that crops up is whether it was always like this, given that this inequality is purported to be rooted in the hoary annals of "traditional and/or scriptural authority". Or is this ruse another colonial construct, rooted in selective interpretation or mischievous misinterpretation in pursuance of vested interests?

This is what civil servant Mukul Kumar seeks to investigate in his first non-fiction work, "Women in the Womb of Time: Unveiling Ancient Feminism" (BluOne Ink Pvt/328 pp/Rs 799), with his basic question being to find out "how did the discrimination against women emerge?"

This he seeks to answer by undertaking a comprehensive and intense scrutiny of ancient texts and other evidentiary material to see what they tell us about the status of women in hoary antiquity.

And what he finds is quite eye-opening, not to mention counter-intuitive!

But before beginning what proves to be a most extensive - yet lucidly-presented - survey into Ancient India's social mores and norms, Mukul Kumar, an Indian Rail Traffic Service officer whose previous published oeuvre comprises half a dozen works split between novels and poetry anthologies, seeks to clarify his terms of reference and yardsticks, particularly the contested definitions of the binary constructs of 'feminity' and 'masculinity'.

This entails an engrossing philosophical, historical, and anthropological excursion into the genesis and development of human society and gender roles and the definition and scope of feminism, which draws in Karl Marx - and his theory of the influence of the means of production, his collaborator Friedrich Engels, Simone de Beauvoir, Judith Butler, and more.

With this done, the author then begins his examination with the 'Shruti' literature, encompassing both the venerable Vedas, particularly the Rig Veda, as well as the Upanishads, and the 'Smriti' literature, which includes both the great epics - the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, the Shastras, and the Puranas.

And in the process, he brings the spotlight on several female luminaries of the Vedic period, of which Gargi, Maitreyi, and Lopamudra are known, but also the likes of Viswavara and Apala who deserve more attention.

Similarly, he does strike new ground in his study on epic literature, where the focus is not only on Sita and Draupadi, but several other key characters, both central and cited, like Tara, Mandodari, and Savitri, among others.

More significantly, Mukul Kumar delves deep into the Manusmriti, the Arthashastra, and the Kamasutra, all of which get their separate chapters.

Explaining his choice of the trio, he says the first needs an examination for its contradictory nature on the subject (among other issues), the second for being the first Indian work to deal with the role of women in the economic domain beyond their home and hearth, and finally, the last, which is not, as commonly perceived, only a manual of erotic love but a more wider work of social customs and advice.

Varying traditions across the subcontinent, including Buddhism and Jainism, are then taken up for how they deal with the issue of women, before the author moves on from his scriptural exegesis to what extant epigraphical and numismatic evidence tells us before wrapping up his quest in the Gupta era of the 7th Century C.E. - and the wider landscape of the sub-continent - to reflect on what his research indicates.

The course of the journey is most engrossing, not to mention cerebral but accessible at the same time, for the author does wear his erudition lightly and despite the profuse quotations from the source works, presents his work as more of an informed conversation than a discourse.

And then, along with his own reading of the matter concerned, Mukul Kumar marshals the thoughts of a considerable number of domain and other experts, including (but not limited to) Mahatma Gandhi, Sri Aurobindo, Romila Thapar, Radha Kumud Mukherjee, D.N. Jha, Wendy Doniger, et al.

In all, it is a thought-provoking excursion into a period of early Indian civilisational ethos, with its sets of binary opposites, and an aim of seeing how far the "ancient articulations are resonant with current feminist concerns", but based on indigenous intellectual and cultural heritage, instead of Western interpolations.

While the author does add the caveat that his work shouldn't be seen as definitive but as the beginning of informed exploration, it certainly is an impressive start.

(Vikas Datta can be contacted at vikas.d@ians.in)

Source: IANS

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Gandhinagar/Patan, July 14 (SocialNews.XYZ) The 3D projection mapping show at Gujarat's UNESCO World Heritage Site of Rani Ki Vav has received a Gold Award at the 17th WOW Awards Asia 2026, marking national recognition for the state's use of immersive audio-visual technology to present one of India's most significant heritage monuments.

The project, located at the 11th-century stepwell in Patan, won the honour in the "Experiential Tech Awards – Achievement in Audio-Visual for an Event" category at the annual awards, which recognise excellence in the events and experiential technology industry.

According to the state government, more than 44,209 visitors had experienced the projection mapping show as of July 12, reflecting growing public interest since it was launched earlier this year.

Rani Ki Vav, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, is regarded as one of India's finest examples of stepwell architecture and attracts large numbers of domestic and international visitors each year.

To enhance the visitor experience, the state government completed the permanent installation of a advanced 3D projection mapping show and heritage lighting system at the monument.

The project was virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 31, following which the appointed agency assumed responsibility for operating and maintaining the installation.

The government said the implementing agency had submitted the project for nomination at the WOW Awards Asia 2026, where it secured the Gold Award.

The recognition was presented in acknowledgement of the project's use of audio-visual technology to interpret the historical and cultural significance of the heritage site through an immersive visitor experience.

The projection mapping installation combines large-scale visual effects with heritage lighting to narrate the history and architectural legacy of Rani Ki Vav, a monument commissioned by Queen Udayamati in memory of King Bhima I of the Solanki dynasty.

The stepwell is widely recognised for its intricate stone carvings and engineering and has become one of Gujarat's most visited heritage attractions.

Source: IANS

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Mandya (Karnataka), July 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) Senior BJP leader and Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka on Monday warned that the BJP would lay siege to the Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) reservoir if the Karnataka government failed to release water for standing crops in the Cauvery basin within the next three days.

Ashoka, who visited drought-hit sugarcane fields in Malavalli and nearby villages in Mandya district, interacted with farmers and assessed crop damage caused by the shortage of irrigation water. Addressing reporters later, he accused the Congress government of ignoring the plight of farmers while remaining preoccupied with Cabinet expansion.

He urged the state government to immediately convene an all-party meeting on the Cauvery water-sharing issue and declare drought in the affected regions.

According to Ashoka, Karnataka must formulate a united strategy to protect the interests of its farmers, especially when neighbouring Tamil Nadu has been aggressively pursuing its claims through legal channels.

"The government should first discuss the drought situation and the Cauvery issue instead of focusing on political matters. If water is not released from KRS within three days, the BJP will lay siege to the reservoir and ensure that water is released for farmers," he said.

Ashoka argued that the government should release water at least once to save the standing sugarcane crops.

He recalled that in previous years, water had been released for crops even when the storage level in the KRS reservoir was around 86 feet.

"Even if water is not provided for new cultivation, the existing crops must be protected. Farmers who have suffered crop losses should also be compensated. Declaring drought is essential so that relief measures such as subsidies for fodder and drinking water can be extended," he said.

The BJP leader also criticised the state leadership, alleging that ministers and ruling party legislators were more focused on securing ministerial positions than addressing the concerns of farmers.

He said discussions should not be limited to Congress legislators and urged the government to consult MLAs from all political parties before taking decisions on the Cauvery issue.

Source: IANS

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Aizawl, July 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Monday said that the history and cultural heritage of the people of the Northeast had been preserved through their traditional attire, handicrafts and indigenous skills long before they were documented in written form.

He said these traditional practices and artistic expressions continue to serve as living repositories of the region's identity, history and collective memory.

Inaugurating the week-long 'Zo Fair' (Aadhi Bazaar) in Aizawl, the Chief Minister said that the products displayed at the fair reflected centuries of inherited craftsmanship and cultural traditions.

He observed that while modern technology has enabled the mass production of many goods, traditional handcrafted products still require painstaking manual work. These crafts, Lalduhoma said, are an integral part of the identity of the people and serve as a living record of their history and culture.

He urged artisans to take pride in their skills and not to undervalue or abandon their traditional craftsmanship.

Although these products are made primarily for their own communities, the Chief Minister noted that appreciation and demand from outside are steadily increasing, creating better market opportunities.

He also expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, TRIFED and the concerned departments for their efforts in the conservation and promotion of tribal and forest-based products.

Welcoming participants from outside the state, Lalduhoma invited them to enjoy their stay in Mizoram, interact freely with the local people as members of one family rather than as visitors and, if possible, explore Aizawl and visit local households to experience the hospitality of the Mizo people.

The fair is jointly organised by the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED) under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, and the Cooperation Department, Government of Mizoram.

The fair showcases a wide range of traditional handicrafts and indigenous products brought by artisans from various northeastern states as well as different parts of Mizoram.

Rural Development Minister Lalnilawma said the cooperative movement has brought prosperity to many communities across the world and expressed confidence that Mizoram would also achieve similar success.

Referring to the recently held Horti Fair at Lammual, he noted that sales worth around Rs 20 lakh were recorded in a single day.

He reiterated that achieving the vision of Viksit Mizoram 2047, frequently emphasised by the Chief Minister, requires every village in the state to become self-reliant, and said efforts in that direction have already begun.

TRIFED Regional Manager P.S. Thuingaleng said Mizoram's Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs) are among the best-performing in the Northeastern Region.

He, however, pointed out that their products require more attractive packaging, which would significantly improve their marketability.

Thuingaleng also thanked the Chief Minister for inaugurating the fair.

The fair features 25 stalls, including 13 stalls from various northeastern states and 12 stalls from Mizoram.

Among them are two Tribal Food Cuisine stalls, while the remaining stalls display handwoven textiles, bamboo products, food items and other natural produce.

The fair has been designed to enable direct interaction and trade between producers and buyers without intermediaries.

It will remain open throughout the week.

Source: IANS

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Bengaluru, July 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Karnataka has gathered pace, with 94.23 per cent of Enumeration Forms (EFs) distributed to voters and 30.61 per cent digitised, according to a statement released by the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Karnataka, on Monday.

As part of the ongoing revision exercise, Enumeration Forms are being printed and distributed by Booth Level Officers (BLOs). The house-to-house enumeration and digitisation process is being carried out from June 30 to July 29, 2026.

According to the latest data, a total of 52,233,954 Enumeration Forms, accounting for 94.23 per cent of the electorate, have been distributed across the state. As many as 40,289 polling stations (68.23 per cent) have achieved 100 per cent distribution of forms, while 9,652 polling stations (16.35 per cent) have crossed the 90 per cent distribution mark.

The CEO's office said that 16,965,864 Enumeration Forms, or 30.61 per cent, have been digitised so far. Sixteen polling stations have completed 100 per cent digitisation, while 943 polling stations have achieved over 90 per cent digitisation.

A total of 230,712 Enumeration Forms (0.42 per cent) have been submitted online by electors.

During the verification process, 937,532 electors have been marked as ASDDO (Absent, Shifted, Deceased and Others). The exercise has also identified 105,766 untraceable or absent electors, 530,184 permanently shifted electors, 253,342 deceased electors, 45,260 voters who are already enrolled elsewhere, and 2,980 cases under the 'Others' category.

The Special Intensive Revision is aimed at updating and verifying the electoral rolls to ensure greater accuracy ahead of future elections. House-to-house verification and digitisation of Enumeration Forms will continue until July 29.

The BJP has alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Karnataka, claiming that the Congress government is influencing the exercise to manipulate voter lists.

The party has raised concerns over the alleged enrolment of illegal immigrants and fake voters, questioned the role of Booth Level Officers (BLOs), and demanded a transparent and impartial verification process under the Election Commission's supervision.

Source: IANS

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Mumbai, July 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Maharashtra Department of Women and Child Development (WCD) on Monday late evening issued a comprehensive clarification regarding the ongoing E-KYC verification process for the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, firmly asserting that no eligible woman will lose her benefits.

The department issued the clarification in response to media reports claiming that the names of over 92 lakh women had been removed from the flagship Ladki Bahin Yojana. The WCD department categorically dismissed these reports as "factually incorrect and baseless".

According to the WCD department, despite a generous six-month window that began in August 2025 and an additional grace period in April 2026 to rectify discrepancies, over 60 lakh applicants failed to complete their mandatory E-KYC verification. Simultaneously, data integration with other government departments has helped filter out ineligible applications. Around 15 lakh applicants were found to have annual incomes exceeding the scheme's prescribed eligibility threshold. Approximately 5 lakh applicants were flagged for having four-wheeler vehicles registered in their names, a disqualifying criterion under the scheme rules, the WCD department said.

"Barring applicants who did not complete the E-KYC process despite repeated opportunities, and those who do not meet the scheme's eligibility criteria, the Department has taken every precaution to ensure that not a single eligible woman faces injustice," the WCD Department stated.

Addressing concerns from genuine beneficiaries who completed their E-KYC but still experienced a suspension of benefits, the department confirmed that a strict re-verification process is currently underway to resolve these grievances. Additionally, the government clarified its stance on overlapping social welfare schemes. For women who applied to both the Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Yojana and the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, the department is actively ensuring that they continue to seamlessly receive payouts from at least one of the two schemes.

WCD Minister Aditi Tatkare reassured the public of the state's unwavering commitment to the welfare scheme, emphasising that it will continue without interruption. "With the steadfast support of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, and with the trust of every beloved sister of Maharashtra, the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana is moving forward with strength," she said.

Source: IANS

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Kolkata, July 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the families of the nine fishermen who were found dead after a fishing trawler, which had gone missing earlier this month, was recovered from the Bay of Bengal near the Sundarbans in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district, officials said.

"The loss of lives due to the capsizing of a boat in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal is deeply painful. My thoughts are with the bereaved families in this hour of grief. May the injured recover at the earliest. An ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs 50,000," the Prime Minister said in a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) on Monday.

According to officials, personnel from the police, the Forest Department and the Indian Coast Guard located the sunken trawler in the Raktachar area near the Chulkathi forest on Sunday. The vessel was subsequently recovered and brought to the Sitarampur area under the jurisdiction of the Gobardhanpur Police Station. During a search of the trawler, the bodies of nine fishermen were found inside.

Six other fishermen who were on board the vessel remain untraced.

The trawler, identified as 'FB Maa Kali', had left the Shankarpur Fisheries Port in East Midnapore district on July 2 with 15 fishermen on board. Communication with the vessel was reportedly lost after July 5 following adverse weather conditions in the region. A joint search operation involving the police, the Coast Guard, the Forest Department and fishermen's organisations had been underway under Chitrak Bhattacharya, Deputy Field Director of the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve, since then.

The recovered bodies have been sent to Kakdwip Sub-Divisional Hospital for post-mortem examination. A fresh joint search operation was launched on Monday to locate the remaining fishermen. Authorities fear the death toll could rise further.

Minister of State for Sundarban Affairs Dipankar Jana visited the trawler after it was brought ashore and reviewed the search operation. He said the state government had been informed about the incident and discussions were underway regarding further administrative action.

The trawler was found overturned near the Chulkathi forest, around 35 km off the Bakkhali coast in South 24 Parganas district, before being towed to Sitarampur Ghat on Sunday evening. The bodies were recovered during the subsequent search of the vessel.

Source: IANS

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Kolkata, July 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) Only around seven per cent of the under-construction multi-storey structures in and around Kolkata that came under the scanner of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) following the collapse of an under-construction warehouse at Taratala on the southern outskirts of Kolkata last month have got the clearance of the high-power committee constituted by the KMC.

Following the collapse of the three-storey warehouse at Taratala last month, which claimed 16 lives, the KMC had put a hold on the construction process of the ongoing under-construction multi-storey projects in areas under the Corporation's jurisdiction. It also formed a high-power committee to review whether the clearances for the said constructions had been granted by the previous Trinamool Congress-run KMC board after proper scrutiny of the prescribed construction norms.

"A total of 160 under-construction multi-storey structures was reviewed by the high-power committee. On Monday, KMC Commissioner Smita Pandey submitted the report of the said high-power committee. The audit revealed that only 11 of the 160 under-construction multi-storey structures have got the clearance of the review committee. This means that only 6.87 per cent of such structures have got clearance from the high-power review committee," said an insider in the KMC.

It is learnt that in the last three years, a total of 344 applications were submitted for the construction of multi-storey buildings in the city.

"Out of these, 200 under-construction projects were identified in the first phase. Out of these 200, the audit team members physically visited 160 sites and inspected the infrastructure and quality of work of the multi-storey buildings. Out of these 160 constructions reviewed by the high-power committee, only 11 have passed the test," the KMC insider said.

Speaking to mediapersons, Pandey said that out of the 160 constructions physically reviewed by the members of the high-power committee, serious defects and negligence in granting clearances had been detected in 23 structures. These defects included the poor quality of construction materials and extreme indifference to the safety of workers. "The way the work was being carried out, ignoring building codes and regulations, cannot rule out the possibility of a major accident at any time," Pandey said.

The KMC has issued a strong message that work on these 23 multi-storey buildings, where defects were found, should be stopped immediately. The files have been sent back to the developers and promoters concerned for the speedy rectification of the defects. No work can be carried out there until the defects are completely rectified in accordance with the rules.

In addition, the audit reports of the remaining 41 under-construction multi-storey structures have currently been sent to the technical sub-committee for scrutiny. Only if the green signal is received from there will the next decision be taken.

Source: IANS

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Kolkata, July 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) In an attempt to involve the girl children in the red-light areas of the state in the recently initiated cervical cancer vaccination drive in West Bengal, the state health department has decided to provide this vaccination to the girl children in the red-light areas absolutely free of cost.

The initiative on this count will begin with the vaccination drive at Asia's oldest and biggest red-light area, Sonagachi in North Kolkata. The project will be run by the state government in association with the Durbar Mahila Samanwaya Committee, a non-governmental body working for the welfare of the sex workers and their children in the Sonagachi area.

The state Health Minister, Dr Sharadwat Mukherjee, who is himself an acclaimed medical practitioner, has sought a list of girl children in the Sonagachi area within the age bracket of 14 and 15 years from the said committee.

Durbar secretary Bishakha Lashkar informed mediapersons on Monday that the state Health Minister was present at the 31st anniversary of the foundation of Durbar on Sunday, where he sought the list of girl children from the area within that age bracket for inclusion under the cervical cancer vaccination drive, and that too free of cost.

At the same time, Lashkar said, the state health department had also decided to install condom-vending machines in the Sonagachi area free of cost.

On Sunday, the Durbar authorities also felicitated those children of the sex workers in the Sonagachi area who had appeared for the Secondary and Higher Secondary examinations this year. At the same time, financial assistance was also given to the aged sex workers, who have been out of the profession for quite some time because of their age.

Last week, the state health department also announced its plans to reach the doorsteps of all girls' schools in the state and organise cervical cancer vaccination camps there. Before organising these vaccination camps on the campuses of the girls' schools, the state government will take consent from the guardians of the students studying in those girls' schools.

Source: IANS

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Leh, July 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) Each of the seven districts in the Union Territory of Ladakh will have an Autonomous Hill Development Council to decentralise governance and strengthen grassroots administration.

Ladakh Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra told a press conference on Monday that the Union Territory Administration will constitute an Autonomous Hill Development Council in each of the seven districts.

He described the move as a major step towards democratic decentralisation and grassroots governance.

He said Section 3(1) of the LAHDC Act already provides for a council for every district, to be constituted from a date notified by the government in the Gazette.

Only amendments to the Act, wherever required, and the delimitation of constituencies remain to be completed.

Ladakh expanded from two districts to seven in April 2026, when Sham, Nubra, Changthang, Zanskar and Drass were notified as new districts.

Elected representation has, until now, remained with the two existing councils in Leh and Kargil.

The Chief Secretary reiterated that each of the seven councils will exercise the full powers provided under the LAHDC Act.

The new districts will enjoy the same authority that Leh has exercised since 1995 and Kargil since 2003, rather than a diluted version of those powers.

The Hill Councils will have authority over land ownership and land allotment within their respective districts. Sham, Nubra, Changthang, Zanskar and Drass will exercise those powers within their respective jurisdictions.

The councils will regulate recruitment and promotion for district cadre posts. Employment decisions in the new districts will rest with elected bodies within the respective districts. The District Councils will maintain dedicated Council Funds and will have the power to levy taxes and fees.

Each new district will have its own revenue base. The councils will formulate their own development plans, enabling each district to determine its own priorities rather than receiving them from Leh or Kargil.

The councils will also be responsible for health, education and tourism at the district level, along with local infrastructure and social welfare schemes.

The Chief Secretary said a Union Territory-level body has been proposed above the seven councils under a customised Article 371 framework, with legislative, executive, financial and administrative powers.

He said the proposed model has no parallel elsewhere in the country and will draw on the best features of other governance arrangements.

The structure and powers of the Union Territory-level body will be finalised through consultations between Ladakh's representatives and the Government of India.

Some rebalancing of powers between the councils and the Union Territory-level body may follow. The councils are the first firm element of the proposed governance structure to be confirmed.

Panchayati Raj institutions will continue to function alongside the Hill Councils. Ladakh will have elected representation at the village, district and Union Territory levels, the Chief Secretary added.

Source: IANS

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Nanded, July 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) National Commission for Women Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar on Monday inspected the facilities for women inmates at Nanded district court in Maharashtra, apart from interacting with the inmates to note their problems.

In a message on X, Rahatkar said, “Conversed with the women prisoners in Nanded District Jail to understand their problems and needs. The law can limit freedom, but not human rights! Every woman should get the opportunity for respect and rehabilitation.”

In another post, she said, “Engaged in conversation with the women detained in the jail and gathered information on various aspects related to their problems, needs, and rehabilitation.”

“The law may restrict a person's freedom, but it cannot restrict their human rights, dignity, and dreams. Every woman should be given the opportunity for dignity, sensitivity, and reform, so that she can confidently reclaim her place in the mainstream of society,” she said.

Earlier, she offered prayers at Shri Takht Sachkhand Shri Hazur Sahib, Nanded, and shared a message on X.

“I was fortunate to have the privilege of paying obeisance at Shri Takht Sachkhand Shri Hazur Sahib. This is not merely a gurdwara, but a sacred pilgrimage site embodying the eternal inspiration of faith, sacrifice, courage, and humanity,” she said.

“This is the very hallowed ground where the Tenth Guru, Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, attained joti-jot and left his mortal body, bestowing upon Shri Guru Granth Sahib the honour of the eternal Guru and thereby concluding the tradition of human Gurus. Bowing at the feet of Guru Sahib, I felt profoundly overwhelmed,” she said.

Earlier, Rahatkar was presented with the 'Late Smt. Kusumtai Chavan Memorial Award 2026’ by the daily 'Satyaprabha', marking the birth anniversary of Late Shankarrao Chavan, former Chief Minister of Maharashtra and former Union Home Minister.

In a message on X, she wrote, “Receiving this honour for my work in the field of women's empowerment is a matter of great pride for me.”

“On this occasion, while expressing my thoughts, I said that today Indian women are reaching new heights. Whether as fighter pilots, space scientists, entrepreneurs, or athletes who enhance the glory of the Tricolor in international sports competitions — women are raising the flag of their talent in every field,” she said.

However, alongside this progress, women face serious challenges such as cybercrime, violence, sexual harassment, and human trafficking. Due to changing social circumstances, stress and instability in family relationships are also increasing, she said.

At such a time, to strengthen the institution of the family and guide society in the right direction, the power of motherhood must once again come to the forefront, she said.

“History bears witness that whenever the nation faced a crisis, valiant women like Mother Jijau, Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, and Rani Laxmibai led society. I am fully confident that today's maternal power will also successfully overcome this challenge,” she added.

Source: IANS

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Guwahati, July 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) Heavy rainfall is set to continue across Assam over the next five days, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning of thunderstorms, lightning and isolated spells of heavy to very heavy rain in several districts, even as the southwest monsoon remains active over the state, officials said on Monday.

According to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Guwahati, light to moderate rainfall occurred at most places in Assam during the past 24 hours, with isolated heavy to very heavy showers recorded in several districts.

The highest rainfall in the state was recorded at Beki Road Bridge in Barpeta district at 15 cm, followed by Pandu in Kamrup (Metro) at 14 cm, Manas NH Crossing in Barpeta at 12 cm and Dhupdhara in Goalpara at 11 cm. Barpeta town also received 10 cm of rainfall.

The IMD said the monsoon trough currently extends from Sri Ganganagar through northern India to Manipur, while upper-air cyclonic circulations over Bangladesh and the adjoining Bay of Bengal are influencing weather conditions across the Northeast, leading to widespread rainfall activity.

The weather office has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by lightning at isolated places across Assam, along with heavy rainfall at isolated locations.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, the intensity is expected to increase, with heavy to very heavy rainfall likely at isolated places in the state.

Similar conditions are expected to persist till July 18, with moderate rainfall likely at many places across Assam and no significant change in maximum temperatures.

The IMD has advised residents to remain alert as thunderstorms may uproot trees and damage vulnerable structures, while heavy rain could trigger waterlogging in low-lying areas, disrupt road and rail traffic, affect ferry services and temporarily interrupt power supply in some places.

People have been urged to avoid taking shelter under trees or weak structures during thunderstorms and follow official weather advisories.

Source: IANS

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Hyderabad, July 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) has advised citizens to remain vigilant against cybercriminals exploiting flash sales, season discounts, clearance sales, and exclusive online offers to defraud unsuspecting shoppers.

TGCSB Director Shikha Goel said on Monday that fraudsters create fake websites, impersonate popular e-commerce brands, circulate misleading advertisements on social media, and send fraudulent links through WhatsApp, SMS, and email, offering products at unrealistically low prices.

She said the fraudsters have common modus operandi. These include fake advertisements offering heavy discounts on branded products, fake websites resembling genuine e-commerce platforms, social media pages promoting “Limited Time Sale” or “Stock Clearance” offers, fraudulent links shared through WhatsApp, Telegram, SMS, or email.

The fraudsters also send requests for advance payment through UPI, QR codes, or direct bank transfers. They also use fake customer care numbers that collect payment or banking details.

According to the TGCSB director, red flags include prices that seem too good to be true, unverified websites or newly created domains, requests for payment outside the official shopping platform, no customer reviews or seller ratings, urgent messages such as “Only a few items left” or “Offer expires in 10 minutes and sellers insisting on advance payment without secure checkout.

Shikha Goel suggested that citizens take safety measures. The citizens have been advised to shop only through trusted and official e-commerce platforms, verify the website URL before making any purchase, avoid clicking on shopping links received through unsolicited messages, check seller ratings, reviews, and return policies.

She also advised people to never make payments directly to personal bank accounts or unknown UPI IDs and to use secure payment methods offered by the platform.

“If you become a victim, immediately contact your bank and report the fraudulent transaction. Preserve screenshots, payment receipts, order details, and conversations. Report the incident through the National Cybercrime Helpline – 1930. Lodge a complaint at www.cybercrime.gov.in without delay,” the TGCSB director said.

“Cybercriminals exploit attractive discounts and limited-time offers to lure victims. If an offer appears too good to be true, verify before you buy. Think before you click. Verify before you pay,” she added.

Source: IANS

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Kabul, July 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) As many as 3.7 million children aged below five years are at increased risk of undernutrition in Afghanistan in 2026 due to child food and nutrition insecurity, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said in a report.

In its report "Too Little, Too Late: The diet Crisis Facing Young Children in Afghanistan", UNICEF said acute malnutrition has deteriorated in 26 of Afghanistan's 34 provinces compared to 2025. The UN agency stated that conditions are worsening even before Afghanistan's annual peak malnutrition season, which mainly runs from July to September.

According to UNICEF, 83 per cent of severe malnutrition cases and 77 per cent of moderate acute malnutrition cases occur among children aged below two years, showcasing the increasing vulnerability of children during the most critical stage of physical and cognitive development. The UN agency stated that children residing in severely food-insecure households are up to six times more likely to experience severe wasting during the peak malnutrition period.

UNICEF’s Representative in Afghanistan, Tajudeen Oyewale, said: "This new evidence gives us an opportunity to act before children reach the point of severe malnutrition. When families begin reducing meals or cutting back on nutritious foods it is not only a sign of hardship. It is a warning that a child may soon become dangerously wasted. Treatment saves lives, but we must also invest in prevention, starting with the diets of the youngest children and pregnant women."

Apart from poor young child diets and rising food insecurity, worsening malnutrition in Afghanistan is due to disease outbreaks, low immunisation coverage, inadequate water, sanitation and hygiene services, and growing funding and supply gaps.

In a statement, UNICEF stated: "Together, these pressures are increasing children’s vulnerability to wasting and underline the need for coordinated action across nutrition, health, water, sanitation and hygiene, education and social protection services."

Earlier in June, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said that 16 million people in Afghanistan will need access to clean water and sanitation services in 2026, Afghan news agency Khaama Press reported.

The OCHA said water scarcity is exposing children to greater health risks and affecting daily life in Afghanistan, forcing people to take coping mechanisms amid deteriorating conditions. The agency stated that access to safe drinking water and sanitation in Afghanistan is a critical humanitarian challenge, Khaama Press reported.

Over the years, Afghanistan has faced recurring droughts, inadequate water-management infrastructure and poverty, resulting in millions of people facing difficulty in getting sufficient water for drinking, household use and agriculture. Humanitarian agencies have said that climate-related shocks are increasing pressure on already fragile communities in Afghanistan.

Source: IANS

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Srinagar, July 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) A day ahead of July 13, authorities on Sunday sealed all routes leading to the martyrs' graveyard in the old city area of Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir. July 13 was observed as a state holiday in Jammu and Kashmir until 2019, when Article 370 was abrogated and the erstwhile state was bifurcated into two Union Territories.

On July 13, 1931, protesters stormed the Srinagar Central Jail, where a Pathan butler, Abdul Qadeer, was being tried for allegedly making a provocative speech against the Maharaja's rule in Jammu and Kashmir.

Guards at the Central Jail opened fire on the mob in 1931, killing 22 protesters. Those killed in the firing were taken in a large procession and buried in the courtyard of the Naqshband Sahib mosque in Srinagar.

Since 1931, July 13 had been observed as Martyrs' Day, with floral tributes being paid by the party in power and other political leaders at the graveyard.

After 2019, the practice was discontinued and July 13 was also removed from the list of public holidays in Jammu and Kashmir.

The ruling National Conference has announced that its leaders and workers will visit the graveyard on Sunday to offer floral tributes to those killed in 1931.

Authorities have sealed all roads leading to the graveyard, and it is unlikely that anyone will be allowed to visit the site on Sunday.

Iltija Mufti, daughter of former Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition Mehbooba Mufti of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), told reporters that authorities had placed her mother under house arrest on Saturday to prevent her from visiting the martyrs' graveyard on Sunday.

Senior religious leader and chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq had also announced on Friday that he would visit the martyrs' graveyard on July 13 in a peaceful procession to pay tribute to those killed in the 1931 firing.

Ahead of the July 13 observance, the administration on Saturday sealed all routes leading to the Martyrs' Graveyard at Naqshband Sahib in Nowhatta and deployed police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel in strength across the area.

The entry point from Khanyar and the route leading to the graveyard from the Nowhatta-Jamia Masjid side have been closed, with police vehicles stationed at both locations.

A heavy deployment of police and CRPF personnel has also been made outside the graveyard, while additional security personnel have been posted at other entry and exit points.

Vehicular movement on the roads leading to the graveyard has been suspended and access to the graveyard has been completely restricted.

Source: IANS

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Surat, July 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Surat district authorities have disbursed more than Rs 4.68 crore in financial assistance to 20,745 people affected by the recent floods, with compensation for cash doles and household losses continuing across the city's worst-hit areas as survey teams complete damage assessments.

According to the district administration, 3,690 beneficiaries across six affected talukas received more than Rs 83.93 lakh in financial assistance on Sunday alone under the state government's relief programme.

The payments included immediate cash doles and compensation for damage to household belongings.

The relief exercise is being carried out under the supervision of Surat Collector Tejas Parmar following the floods that affected Surat city and surrounding areas after heavy rainfall.

By 5 p.m, authorities had distributed more than Rs 22.13 lakh in cash doles to 2,459 affected families across six talukas to provide immediate financial relief.

Taluka-wise, 28 beneficiaries in Katargam received Rs 25,200, while 849 beneficiaries in Puna were paid more than Rs 7.64 lakh. In Majura, 184 beneficiaries received Rs 1.65 lakh, and 108 beneficiaries in Abrama were paid Rs 97,200.

Udhna, one of the worst-affected areas, accounted for the largest share of the cash dole distribution, with more than Rs 11.61 lakh paid to 1,290 beneficiaries.

Alongside the cash dole payments, the administration also released compensation for household losses. A total of 1,231 beneficiaries had received a total of Rs 61.80 lakh for damage to household goods and belongings.

Under this component, 14 families in Katargam received Rs 70,000, while 426 families in Puna were paid Rs 21.30 lakh. Majura recorded payments of Rs 4.60 lakh to 92 families, Abrama received Rs 2.70 lakh for 54 families, and 645 families in Udhna were provided Rs 32.50 lakh.

Officials said surveys are continuing in flood-affected localities and further eligible beneficiaries will receive assistance after verification.

Among those assisted was Sandeep Kumar Sharma, a resident of Gitanagar in Limbayat, who lives with his wife and two sons.

Sharma, who suffered injuries to both legs and his waist in an accident about six weeks ago, said his family remained on the upper floor of their house for three days after floodwater entered their home.

Expressing gratitude for the assistance received from the district administration and the State Government, Sharma said: "Receiving food grains and financial assistance for me and my family during this difficult time has brought great relief."

He said the supply of milk, drinking water and food grains, along with Rs 6,800 as compensation for household losses, had helped his family cope with the immediate aftermath of the floods.

Another beneficiary, Jamnaben of Gitanagar in Limbayat, whose family depends on daily wage labour, said her seven-member household lost food grains, clothing and household belongings after floodwater remained inside their home for three consecutive days.

Following a survey by the district administration after the water receded, her family received ration supplies and Rs 6,800 in cash towards cash doles and household loss compensation.

Jamnaben said: "The government's assistance has been a great support. Now we will be able to buy essential household items and restart our normal life."

Separately, MLA Sangeeta Patil visited Gitanagar and distributed ration kits and financial assistance to flood-affected families. The ration kits contained five kilograms each of wheat and rice, along with onions and potatoes.

During her visit, she met affected residents and assured them of continued support. She said, "Under the guidance of the Prime Minister and in accordance with the directions of the Chief Minister, the district administration is working round the clock to assist citizens during this disaster."

The district administration said compensation payments are being made without delay following rapid surveys so that affected residents can restore their livelihoods and return to normal life as quickly as possible.

Source: IANS

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Agartala, July 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Sunday said the state government is working to modernise government hospitals and build an integrated healthcare system to ensure quality, technology-driven and affordable medical services for people across the state.

The Chief Minister made the remarks while inaugurating the newly constructed 50-bed Agartala Civil Hospital in the state capital, named after Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee.

Describing the inauguration as a significant milestone in the state's healthcare sector, Saha said the hospital marks the beginning of a new chapter in the government's efforts to strengthen public health infrastructure.

"Today, the Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee Agartala Civil Hospital has been inaugurated and dedicated to the people. It is a matter of great happiness for all of us," he said.

The Chief Minister said the hospital has been launched as a pilot project and reflects the government's commitment to transforming government healthcare institutions.

"We have seen the condition of government hospitals in the past, with broken chairs, tables and inadequate facilities. Today, we have come out of that situation. Since our government came to power, we have been continuously working to modernise government hospitals. We are not claiming that everything has been completed, but we are moving steadily in that direction. A new chapter has begun in Tripura's healthcare sector," he said.

Saha, who also holds the Health and Family Welfare portfolio, said the government is committed to ensuring that all hospitals in the state are equipped with adequate doctors, medical staff, ambulances and modern facilities so that people can receive quality healthcare close to their homes.

"We are working on an integrated healthcare system in Tripura, and this hospital will function as a completely paperless facility. Poor people also deserve quality healthcare and better services, and with that objective, this hospital has been established with modern technologies," he said.

He said the hospital has been designed to meet the healthcare needs of people living in Agartala city, reducing the need for patients to rush to other hospitals during emergencies.

"The hospital has facilities for minor and general surgeries, OPD services in ENT, medicine and gynaecology, besides comprehensive mother and child healthcare services. It has 50 oxygen-supported beds, an oxygen generation plant and ambulance services. An Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) has also been installed to ensure the scientific disposal of hospital waste," the Chief Minister said.

He said the Rs 20.37-crore hospital would serve as a model for similar healthcare facilities across the state.

"If this initiative proves successful, we will establish similar modern hospitals in all Municipal Council and Nagar Panchayat areas of Tripura," Dr Saha added.

The Chief Minister reiterated that the government has attached high priority to developing an integrated healthcare system in the state through greater use of digital technology.

"If we can successfully implement e-office systems in the three-tier Panchayati Raj institutions, there is no reason why we cannot introduce similar systems in the healthcare sector. Today, almost every kind of treatment is available in Tripura, and as a result, referral cases outside the state have declined by 83 per cent," he said.

Saha also highlighted the rapid expansion of specialised healthcare services in the state.

"We are establishing mother and child hospitals not only in Agartala but also in other districts. Seven successful kidney transplants have already been conducted in Tripura, and two more are scheduled shortly. We are also planning to introduce heart and liver transplant facilities in the state, and work in that direction is progressing," he added.

Agartala Municipal Corporation Mayor and MLA Dipak Majumder, Health Secretary Kiran Gitte, Urban Development Secretary Milind Ramteke, Agartala Municipal Corporation Commissioner Saju Wahid A and other senior officials attended the inaugural function.

Source: IANS

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Guwahati, July 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday reviewed the progress of the under-construction international-standard cricket stadium and high-performance swimming pool at Amingaon, asserting that the state is building sports infrastructure capable of hosting national and international events.

During his visit, the Chief Minister said the 20,000-capacity cricket stadium is expected to be completed within the next few months.

He added that the Assam government is planning to lease adjoining land from the Railways to develop a multi-level parking facility to support the stadium and other sports infrastructure in the area.

CM Sarma said the swimming pool, which is nearing completion, has been designed as a high-performance training facility and will be capable of hosting national as well as international swimming competitions.

He added that the pool is being developed to train around 40 swimmers simultaneously, and its operations will be entrusted to the Sports Authority of India.

The Chief Minister also reviewed the construction of hostels for athletes and coaches. One hostel has been planned for swimmers and badminton players, while another will accommodate nearly 200 cricket players and coaches, he said.

Chief Minister Sarma expressed confidence that once the new sports infrastructure at Amingaon becomes operational, it will complement the existing Sarusajai Sports Complex and significantly strengthen Assam's ability to host major sporting events.

He said the state has been steadily creating world-class sports facilities to nurture young talent and promote Assam as a leading sporting destination.

The Chief Minister also visited the National Centre of Excellence for Badminton at Amingaon and said the facility has already produced players who have represented the country at national and international levels.

He described the centre as one of India's premier badminton training facilities.

CM Sarma further announced that a six-lane road would be constructed connecting the Kamrup Deputy Commissioner's office, the cricket stadium and the swimming complex, with improved connectivity to the National Highway and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati.

He also inspected the nearby inspection bungalow and suggested measures to further enhance its appearance and utility.

Source: IANS

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Kolkata, July 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) The West Bengal Municipal Affairs & Urban Development Department has announced the formation of two separate high-power committees for the delimitation of wards under the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), the oldest municipal corporation in the state, which is slated to go to the polls later this year.

As per a notification issued by the Additional Chief Secretary of the state Municipal Affairs & Urban Development Department, a copy of which is available with IANS, one of the two committees constituted for the exercise is the Central Delimitation Committee, which is expected to provide a broader framework on how civic services can be improved by bifurcating wards covering larger geographical areas into two separate wards.

Currently, the KMC, which has the legacy of having iconic Indian personalities such as Subhas Chandra Bose, Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das and Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy, who also served as the Chief Minister of West Bengal, as its Mayors during the pre-Independence era, has a total of 144 wards.

As per the proposals of the new Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led state government, following the delimitation exercise, the total number of wards under the KMC will be increased to 200. The stated objective of increasing the number of wards is to ensure better civic amenities for citizens.

According to the notification issued by the state Municipal Affairs & Urban Development Department, the second committee constituted for the delimitation exercise is the Borough Delimitation Committee, which will determine which wards will fall under the jurisdiction of each borough.

"A few days ago, the Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari attended a KMC function. During the programme, he announced that the KMC elections would be held by November this year, immediately after the festive season beginning with Durga Puja in October. He also announced that the KMC wards would be redrawn before the elections. These two committees have now been constituted for that purpose," an official of the Municipal Affairs & Urban Development Department said.

Source: IANS

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Islamabad, July 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Pakistan's judiciary has been deliberately bent into a weapon, as an extension of the security state it was meant to restrain, an article said citing the latest findings from an international human rights NGO.

With around 2.4 million cases pending nationwide, Pakistan ranks 101st of the 143 nations on criminal justice and 129th on civil justice in the World Justice Project's Rule of Law Index.

"Backlog of this magnitude is not merely an inefficiency; it is a resource that can be allocated. A hearing date can be bought or buried. A First Information Report -- the document that formally opens a criminal case in Pakistan -- can be delayed or accelerated for a price, and evidence can be quietly reshaped along the way," an article from One World Outlook said.

It described the situation as not a failure of justice, but as it becoming a commodity which is available to the people who can pay and unavailable to those who cannot.

The article did not attribute the situation entirely to the dysfunction but also focused on something more deliberate, discussing a constitutional restructuring in Pakistan that has stripped the Judiciary of what independence it once had.

"The 26th and 27th amendments, passed in 2024 and 2025, inserted Members of Parliament into the body that selects judges, empowered a judicial council to remove judges for the conveniently vague offense of 'inefficiency', and created a new Federal Constitutional Court whose leadership is effectively chosen by the Prime Minister (Shehbaz Sharif)," the article said, citing the findings of report 'Under the bench: Mapping corruption risks in Pakistan's justice system', by the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH).

The report also cited some very sobering findings showing how thoroughly the system swallows the powerless.

"In blasphemy cases -- nearly eight hundred people were detained on such charges in 2024 alone, overwhelmingly from poor and minority communities -- conviction rates run around ninety-five per cent, driven by judges reluctant to confront extremist pressure and evidentiary contradictions that no one has the money or connections to challenge," the article noted.

The organisations like National Accountability Bureau, the Federal Investigation Agency, and the Supreme Judicial Council, which are put in place as safeguards, also came into the discussion.

"Anti-corruption bodies that might address any of this -- the National Accountability Bureau, the Federal Investigation Agency, the Supreme Judicial Council -- are described by those closest to the system not as safeguards but as instruments of selective punishment, wielded against critics of the military and shelved for everyone else. Meanwhile, the journalists and whistleblowers who might expose the pattern face their own legal exposure, under defamation statutes and the same cyber-crime law used against Mazari, for the crime of looking too closely," the article from One World Outlook said.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, July 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Housing costs across 21 countries frequently exceed affordable limits, which is leading to continuous wealth erosion and threatening financial stability, and this crisis is expected to pressure household budgets and retirement savings, particularly for younger generations facing demographic shifts, according to a report released by the World Economic Forum (WEF).

The housing affordability crisis is seen as a long-term challenge for global financial stability. The issue is not merely a temporary market cycle but a structural problem expected to persist until 2040. In 20 of the 21 countries studied, residents are paying more than the recommended 33 per cent of their monthly income toward housing, a threshold typically considered the limit for affordable living, the report states.

In several high-growth economies, including India, Nigeria, and Colombia, the financial burden is particularly acute, with housing costs often consuming the entirety of an average individual's monthly earnings. The report notes a concerning trend where even in markets experiencing a decline in property prices relative to wages -- such as India, Brazil, and Indonesia, which have seen a drop in prices of over 15 per cent in the last ten years -- affordability has not improved. This suggests that simple price corrections in the real estate market are failing to translate into meaningful relief for the average household.

The report states that new models for lifelong living are emerging to address the housing challenges affecting younger and older adults, and that intergenerational collaboration will be critical to preserve the stability of financial and social systems. It points to projects in Spain, the UK, and Hong Kong as examples of how quality, community and affordability can be put at the core of housing policy.

The report suggests that without the adoption of new, intergenerational housing models, the current trajectory could continue to erode individual wealth. Future discussions in the real estate and financial sectors are likely to focus on policy interventions, innovative financing structures, and the potential for public-private partnerships to bridge the affordability gap. For the Indian market, tracking policy changes related to affordable housing initiatives and credit availability for first-time buyers will be important to see if these structural pressures can be mitigated.

The crisis is further complicated by shifting demographic patterns. As the proportion of older adults increases in rapidly growing economies between 2025 and 2040, younger workers will face the difficult task of balancing housing payments, their own retirement contributions, and the costs associated with supporting multiple generations. This "triple pressure" on income is expected to have long-term consequences for wealth accumulation.

Investors should monitor how these housing pressures influence consumer behaviour and broader economic stability. The WEF warns that high housing costs often force individuals into inadequate living conditions, which can lead to increased medical expenses and lower discretionary spending.

Furthermore, there is a risk that persistent financial stress may drive younger adults toward higher-risk financial activities as they attempt to supplement stagnant incomes. The report identifies that in OECD countries, a rise in young adults living with parents has been observed since 2015, a trend that may intensify as housing affordability remains challenged.

Source: IANS

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Hyderabad, July 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Telangana Police have intensified the hunt for a 35-year-old man who allegedly stabbed six people to death, including his wife, two young sons, and three members of the family that had filed a POCSO case against him, including the victim.

Twelve teams were on the lookout for B. Rajkumar, who committed the murders in two separate attacks at Daivalaguda in Shabad mandal of Rangareddy district on the night of July 10.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Yogesh Gautam on Sunday dismissed rumours circulating on social media that the accused has been arrested. He said the special teams were making all the efforts to apprehend the accused.

The massive manhunt involves technical experts, railway police, and human intelligence units. As the accused had switched off his phone around midnight on July 10, the police teams were relying on CCTV footage to find clues about his whereabouts.

The police teams were scanning CCTV footage from bus stations and railway stations as it is suspected that he might have escaped to other states. They were focusing on the highways connecting to Karnataka and other neighbouring states.

As part of the manhunt, police personnel thoroughly searched hotels and lodges on the Hyderabad-Bengaluru national highway.

Future City police have announced a reward of Rs.2 lakh for anyone providing information leading to the arrest of the accused.

Future City Police Commissioner Tarun Joshi also suspended Shabad police sub-inspector Ramesh, who was the investigating officer in the POCSO case.

According to police, Rajkumar allegedly committed the murders between 11.30 p.m. and midnight at two locations about six kilometres apart before calling his father at around 11.50 p.m. and informing him of the killings.

Rajkumar’s father went to the Shabad police station and informed the police about his son’s alleged confession.

The accused killed the minor girl, her mother and maternal grandmother. He also murdered his wife Sarita and two sons, aged four and one-and-a-half years. According to police, Rajkumar allegedly used a knife to stab all six victims before slitting their throats.

The police investigation revealed that Rajkumar began the killings from a house on Kummariguda Road, Shabad, where the 17-year-old girl who had accused him in the POCSO case lived with her family.

According to police, Rajkumar allegedly killed the girl’s mother Lakshmi and maternal grandmother Rukkama before taking the minor girl away. He murdered her in Daivalaguda village, about 6 km away. Preliminary investigations have ruled out the possibility of sexual assault prior to the murder.

Raj Kumar, with his parents, was the neighbour of the minor girl for many years until he moved away about six months ago with his wife and two sons.

The accused was booked in May under Sections 11 and 12 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act after he allegedly stalked and sexually harassed the minor girl.

He was released on bail last month. Police suspect the killings were an act of revenge over the criminal case.

Source: IANS

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Dhaka, July 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) As many as five children died from measles-like symptoms in Bangladesh in the past 24 hours until 8 a.m. (local time) on Sunday, bringing the combined tally of confirmed and suspected measles-related fatalities to 758, local media reported.

The number of suspected measles deaths has climbed to 664, while laboratory-confirmed deaths remained at 94, according to the latest data from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Bangladesh's The Business Standard reported.

During this period, Bangladesh reported 879 new suspected measles cases, raising the total number of suspected infections to 111,480.

As many as 90 new laboratory-confirmed cases were reported in Bangladesh, bringing the total number of confirmed measles infections in the country to 13,500.

A total of 94,340 patients with suspected measles have been hospitalised in Bangladesh since March 15, according to the DGHS data, The Business Standard reported. Of those, 90,605 patients have recovered in Bangladesh, according to the health authorities.

As hospitals in Bangladesh continue to remain overwhelmed with more than 900 daily measles admissions, health experts have warned that a rise in dengue cases threatens to further strain the healthcare system and increase the risk of more fatalities, local media reported.

Reports suggest that major public hospitals in Dhaka, which have treated thousands of dengue patients during past outbreaks, remain heavily burdened by measles cases. Experts cautioned that any surge in dengue infections could place additional pressure on already limited healthcare resources and disrupt delivery of medical care.

The dengue situation deteriorated in June, with rising infections and fatalities -- accounting for 48 per cent of all cases and 72 per cent of deaths recorded so far this year, Bangladeshi newspaper The Daily Star reported.

Health experts warned that both figures could climb further during the peak monsoon months of July and August unless authorities strengthen measures to curb dengue-carrying Aedes mosquitoes.

Fazle Rabbi Chowdhury, associate professor in the Department of Internal Medicine at Bangladesh Medical University (BMU), said that although measles cases have started to decline, the pace has been slower than expected.

"At the same time, the monsoon is creating ideal conditions for mosquito breeding, and dengue cases have already started rising. This will definitely put additional pressure on hospitals," The Daily Star quoted Chowdhury as saying.

To prevent the situation from escalating into a larger public health crisis, he and other experts called on the Bangladeshi authorities to boost larval control measures, expand temporary treatment facilities, and set up dedicated dengue units to ease the dual disease burden.

Source: IANS

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Colombo, July 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) The weakening job market in China is forcing a rising number of unemployed people to seek refuge in free public spaces, as they find jobs and in some cases, hide about their unemployment from family members, a report has claimed.

Communist Party community service centres in several places in China, which once were used mostly for local administrative activities, are now being used by unemployed people as makeshift workplaces. The centres, which have free internet access, air conditioning, power outlets, and quiet workplaces, have become an alternative to cafes and paid co-working spaces for people who are not able to afford daily expenses after losing their jobs, according to a report in Sri Lanka-based Daily Mirror.

The pattern demonstrates the increasing strain in China's white-collar labour market, where searching for jobs has become common amid slowing economic growth, corporate cost-cutting and the increasing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in sectors like marketing, administration and other office-based functions.

The growing dependence on these centres showcases the financial strain faced by urban workers in China. Free public facilities have become an increasingly practical option in China for people who do not have a steady income, according to the report.

In June, a report claimed that Northeast China, which was once seen as the nation’s powerhouse of heavy industry, is facing shrinking opportunities, vanishing communities, and a deep sense of uncertainty.

"Dalian, emblematic of this decline, reflects the broader struggles of a society caught between past promises and present realities. Factories that once symbolised prosperity now stand silent, while families wrestle with financial strain and fading hope. This unfolding crisis is more than an economic downturn; it is a human story of resilience tested against relentless structural and demographic challenges," the report in Japan Forward said.

"The situation in Dalian and across northeast China has reached a breaking point. Once a proud industrial hub, the region is now filled with unemployed, bankrupt, indebted, and depressed citizens who struggle to afford basic medical treatment. Making money has become painfully difficult, and the streets are dominated by middle-aged and elderly residents," it added.

Young people are either shifting to south China or have given up hope of finding opportunities locally. Social hostility is increasing, with incidents like fights occurring over cutting in line, demonstrating the growing frustration and anxiety of residents, it noted.

Earlier, the northeast was the most industrialised region of China, politically important and tightly linked to the planned economy. However, it fell behind after reform and opening up. The mindset shaped by years of rigid planning continued, influencing governance and society, according to the Japan Forward report. Family planning policies were implemented strictly in northeast China, resulting in demographic decline. Rampant corruption and political failures also impacted the region, resulting in the downfall of many officials and undermining people’s trust.

"Northeast China exemplifies the collapse of an industrial base under rigid political control, failed reforms, demographic decline, and economic stagnation. Once a proud industrial hub, it now struggles with unemployment, migration, ageing, and hopelessness. The region's present may foreshadow the future of the entire country if systemic issues remain unresolved," the report said.

Source: IANS

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Gandhinagar, July 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah will inaugurate a new vegetable sub-yard at the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) in Dahegam city of Gandhinagar district on Monday, as part of the market committee's 'Amrit Mahotsav' celebrations, with the event centred on agricultural marketing, cooperative development and farmers' welfare.

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Dahegam APMC Chairman Sumeru Amin, cooperative representatives, APMC members and other dignitaries are expected to attend the programme.

According to the Ministry of Cooperation, the inauguration is being held in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of "Sahkar Se Samriddhi" (Prosperity through Cooperation), under which the cooperative sector has been focusing on improving farmers' incomes, modernising agricultural marketing infrastructure and strengthening the rural economy.

"During the programme, Shah will inaugurate the newly developed vegetable sub-yard, which has been established by the Dahegam APMC to strengthen agricultural marketing facilities in the region," officials said.

He will also plant a sapling under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign, a nationwide tree plantation initiative launched by the Centre to encourage people to plant a tree in honour of their mothers.

The Union Minister will also release a commemorative publication brought out to mark the Amrit Mahotsav of the Dahegam APMC and interact with members of the APMC Board.

Agricultural Produce Market Committees serve as regulated marketplaces where farmers sell their produce through an organised system designed to ensure transparent trading, fair price discovery and access to market infrastructure.

In Gujarat, APMCs play a key role in the marketing of agricultural commodities and form an important part of the state's cooperative ecosystem.

Before travelling to Dahegam, Home Minister Shah will inaugurate the 11th edition of the INTERPOL Digital Forensics Expert Group (DFEG) Meeting at the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) in Gandhinagar.

The event will bring together representatives from 47 countries and senior law enforcement officials, during which he will also inaugurate three Centres of Excellence, Asia's first 'Cyber Forensic Investigation Van' and an exhibition showcasing advanced digital forensics and cyber security technologies.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, July 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) More than 70 per cent of India's total textile waste is currently recovered and channelled into recycling, upcycling, downcycling, or reuse as part of the circular economy, according to a government factsheet issued on Sunday.

A circular economy is an economic system where materials and resources are reused, recycled, and kept in use for longer. This helps reduce waste and emissions while promoting a more sustainable mode of production. Its core principle is to ensure circularity in the use of inputs.

In the textile sector, sustainability and circularity are important for reducing the adverse effects of the supply chain. The existing materials are reused without changing their basic structure. This lowers the use of energy, chemicals, and water, while reducing environmental impact.

Of the 7.8 million tonnes of textile waste managed annually, over 90 per cent is sourced from domestic pre-consumer (factory scrap) and post-consumer waste. Recovery is especially strong at the pre-consumer stage, where nearly 95 per cent of textile waste is collected and reused through established value-chain networks, as per the factsheet.

The spinning sector shows one of the clearest examples of closed-loop circularity. Nearly all spinning waste is reintegrated within production. Circularity is also visible in post-consumer textiles, with about 55 per cent of this waste diverted from landfills through India’s extensive collection and sorting network.

The factsheet highlights that this ecosystem supports nearly 40-45 lakh livelihoods, with women from marginalised communities playing a major role in collection, sorting, and redistribution.

Within this scope, circular production is gaining momentum across the sector. India's rich heritage of textile craftsmanship and resource-conscious production is receiving wider recognition, as global markets increasingly value products with a lower environmental footprint.

The factsheet also highlights the detailed working of textile waste circulation at major facilities across the country.

India’s first Municipal Textile Recovery Facility in Belapur, Navi Mumbai, recognises textile waste as a circular economy opportunity. The facility integrates collection, sorting, upcycling, technology and livelihoods into one circular recovery ecosystem. It has collected 30 MT of post-consumer textile waste, sorted 25.5 MT, processed over 41,000 items and developed 400+ upcycled samples. It has reached 1.14 lakh families and supported women artisans through exhibitions and market access.

Similarly, Panipat has emerged as a major textile recycling hub. As a specialised downstream processing centre, it receives a large share of pre-consumer textile waste from other clusters. The cluster handles nearly 3,500-5,250 TPD of waste and supports collection, sorting, processing, knitting, and recycling. This creates strong scope for higher-value textile-to-textile recycling through improved material separation.

In Delhi, Katran Market at Mongolpuri shows how informal networks support textile circularity. Roadside handlers collect cutting waste from trucks arriving from Noida, Gurugram, Manesar, Jaipur, and Delhi. The waste is then sorted and segregated by colour, improving its value for recycling. The market supplies over 10 TPD of sorted cutting waste to formal recycling clusters in Panipat. Thus, creating an important link between local collection and downstream textile recovery.

With changing global demand patterns, sustainability is becoming a major growth lever for India’s textile sector. Policy action is supporting organic fibres, safer chemicals, circular production, waste recovery, eco-labelling, and traceability. Cleaner technologies, recycling, responsible sourcing, and waste reduction can help Indian textiles remain competitive in international markets.

Often called the "spinning wheel" of India’s industrial growth, the textile and apparel sector is a key pillar of the manufacturing economy. As per the National Account Statistics 2025, the sector accounts for about 2 per cent of India’s GDP and around 11 per cent of manufacturing GVA.

India is also the world’s sixth-largest exporter of textiles and apparel, holding a 4 per cent share in global exports. The sector also provides direct employment to more than 45 million people, including many women and rural workers.

Given its economic scale, export linkages, and employment intensity, sustainability has become increasingly important for the sector. As global markets are shifting towards environmentally responsible production, India’s textile industry has an opportunity to strengthen its competitiveness, the statement added.

Source: IANS

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Ayodhya, July 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Ram Mandir Construction Committee Chairman Nripendra Misra on Sunday said that the appointment of a CEO to manage the affairs of Ram Mandir will in no manner impact the supremacy of the Ayodhya temple trust.

Speaking to IANS, Misra said the CEO will look into the entire state of affairs, seeking advice from the general secretary and mandate from the trust, with no scope for government interference.

“The CEO will be an additional link in the system. The hierarchy of the existing system is not being disturbed. The trust is supreme, and its decisions will be final,” said Misra over the work profile and powers of an official.

Shedding light on expectations under the new arrangement, Misra said that every aspect of its administration should revolve around devotees.

“I believe the usual arrangements at the Ram Temple are being carried out. The devotee is always the central focus of the temple, nothing else. A temple exists for its devotees, and whenever we make decisions or take any step, the devotee should remain at the centre of our thoughts and actions,” he said.

Misra emphasised that devotees should remain the central focus of every decision concerning the Ram Temple, while praying for the nation’s progress and the well-being of all its citizens.

“We pray to Lord Ram, the embodiment of righteousness and virtue, to bless the nation with greater progress and ensure the well-being of all its citizens. Lord Ram means everything to us. As followers of Sanatan Dharma, we are devoted to Him and always remember and seek His guidance wherever we are,” he said.

The Ram Mandir Construction Committee Chairman said that despite the donation row, devotees are continuing to throng the temple without any signs of “hesitation or distrust” in the system.

Misra said he has no data on the flow of devotees or donations received since the row, but there are no indications of a dip in the number of people offering prayers daily.

“The personal feedback I received after talking to devotees is that their focus continues to be on Lord Ram and offering prayers to Him, and they will continue to come in large numbers,” he said.

“I am told the devotees’ footfall swells on Saturday and Sunday, and there are sizeable crowds even at Hanuman Garhi,” he said, rejecting fears that fewer devotees were turning up in the holy city in the backdrop of the donation row.

Source: IANS

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Kolkata, July 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) at Alipore in Kolkata on Sunday predicted that rain will continue across south Bengal districts, including Kolkata, for the next seven days. At the same time, the Met office issued a warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall in north Bengal.

A senior RMC official said the monsoon axis currently extends from Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to Manipur. In addition, a cyclonic circulation is active over north Bangladesh and adjoining areas. It extends up to a height of 1.5 km above mean sea level.

"Another trough has extended from Bihar to Manipur across this cyclonic circulation. As a result, a large amount of moisture is entering the land from the Bay of Bengal. Due to its impact, rain and thunderstorms will continue across north and south Bengal," the official said.

Meanwhile, scattered rain accompanied by thunderstorms will continue in Kolkata till Tuesday. Gusty winds with speeds of 30-40 kmph are also likely. Similar weather conditions have been forecast for the next few days in North 24 Parganas, Howrah, Hooghly, South 24 Parganas, Purba Medinipur, Jhargram and Purulia districts. However, heavy rain is likely in Bankura, Paschim Bardhaman and Murshidabad districts on Monday. No fresh warning has been issued for fishermen venturing into the sea.

Rainfall activity is likely to increase in south Bengal from Thursday. Heavy rain is likely in Howrah and North 24 Parganas districts that day. In addition, a warning of continuous heavy rain has been issued for South 24 Parganas, Purba Medinipur, Paschim Medinipur, Jhargram, Purulia and Bankura districts from Thursday to Saturday.

Meanwhile, heavy to very heavy rain is likely across north Bengal districts. Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar and Cooch Behar are likely to receive heavy to very heavy rain on Sunday and Monday. Heavy rain is also likely in the remaining districts of north Bengal. Rain is expected to continue across all districts of north Bengal till Tuesday. Heavy rain is also likely in Kalimpong and Alipurduar districts next Friday and Saturday.

The minimum temperature in Kolkata on Sunday morning was 28.4 degrees Celsius, 1.5 degrees above normal. The maximum temperature recorded in the city on Saturday was 32.1 degrees Celsius, 0.7 degrees below normal.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, July 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said on Sunday that the Central government has approved Rs 1,647 crore for 28 major infrastructure projects proposed by the Delhi government under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme.

The approved projects include Delhi Metro works, the Barapulla Elevated Corridor, the Karawal Nagar Flyover and EV charging stations at DTC depots, she said.

In addition, recognising the Delhi government's efforts to enhance capital expenditure (CAPEX) through its own resources, the Centre has also approved an additional incentive of Rs 756 crore, CM Gupta said.

The Chief Minister said the decision would prove to be a significant milestone in further strengthening Delhi's infrastructure.

"It will accelerate development works across the national Capital and enable citizens to benefit from improved public facilities," she said.

She said the projects approved under the SASCI scheme would strengthen Delhi's transport and road infrastructure while bringing substantial improvements to public amenities.

Chief Minister Gupta said SASCI is an important Central government scheme under which States and Union Territories receive interest-free financial assistance for infrastructure projects.

The scheme is not limited to providing financial support alone; it also offers financial incentives to encourage strategic reforms and increased capital investment by States. This has made it an effective instrument for accelerating infrastructure development across the country.

The Chief Minister said her government had prioritised the scheme from the very beginning and consistently urged the Central government to approve Delhi's infrastructure projects under SASCI.

As a result, all 28 projects proposed by the Delhi government were approved on July 9, 2026. She said the approval reflects the Centre's confidence in the Delhi government's commitment to reforms, financial discipline and its ability to implement development projects effectively.

She said that, in view of Delhi's significant increase in capital expenditure from its own resources, the Centre has also granted an additional incentive of Rs 756 crore, marking an important achievement for the Delhi government's development-oriented efforts.

Chief Minister Gupta said that, to ensure the timely execution of all these projects, the Finance Department has been entrusted with the responsibility of coordinating with all departments.

She said the Central government's support for Delhi's development is a strong reflection of the vision of 'Viksit Bharat' envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Under Prime Minister Modi's leadership and with the support of Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the Central government has taken steps to strengthen infrastructure, promote capital investment and accelerate development across the States.

The approval granted to Delhi, along with the additional incentive, demonstrates that governments working with a clear development agenda, transparent governance and sound financial management receive the full support of the Central government.

Source: IANS

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Ayodhya, July 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Ram Mandir Construction Committee Chairman Nripendra Misra said on Sunday that devotees are continuing to throng the temple without any signs of “hesitation or distrust” in the system despite the recent donation row.

Speaking to IANS, Misra said he has no data on the flow of devotees since the row, but there are no indications of a dip in the number of people offering prayers daily.

“The personal feedback I received after talking to devotees is that their focus continues to be on Lord Ram and offering prayers to him, and they will continue to come in large numbers,” he said.

“I am told the devotees’ footfall swells on Saturday and Sunday, and there are sizeable crowds even at Hanuman Garhi,” he said, rejecting fears that fewer devotees were turning up in the holy city in the backdrop of the donation row.

Misra termed the recent theft of donations at the Ram Mandir a matter of “deep regret” and assured that the temple administration would strengthen its systems to ensure that such incidents do not recur.

“The incident that occurred at the Ram Mandir is a matter of deep regret for all of us. We not only feel sorry but also feel diminished by what has happened. It is a matter related to the system, and improvements will certainly be made. I have full faith that such incidents will not be repeated,” he said.

Providing an update on the construction work, Misra said the Ram Mandir project has entered its final phase, with only two major tasks remaining.

“The first task relates to the old temple and its memorial. Most of the work has been completed, but the arrangement for the 24-hour ‘jwala’ is still pending. Apart from that, the construction work is complete. The second task is the completion of the memorial, which is expected to be finished by the end of July,” he said.

He also reviewed the progress of the temple’s boundary wall and expressed confidence that it would be completed within the scheduled timeline.

Misra indicated that most of the construction work within the temple complex would be completed by this year’s Independence Day.

He said he expects the construction companies to meet the August 15 deadline for work pending within the complex. “I am not talking about pending work outside the premises, like the museum,” he said.

Source: IANS

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Puri, July 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Ahead of the annual Rath Yatra festival celebrations in Odisha's Puri, Shree Jagannath Temple Chief Administrator Arabinda Kumar Padhee said on Sunday that preparations for the huge procession are nearly complete and that elaborate arrangements have been made for devotees to do 'darshan'.

This year the Rath Yatra festival is scheduled to be celebrated on July 16.

Speaking to IANS, Padhee said: "Preparations for this year's Ratha Yatra are in full swing and have entered the final stage. We have given maximum emphasis to the timely conduct of all rituals of the deities. The schedule for the conduct of the rituals has already been finalised with elaborate arrangements in place."

"Extensive arrangements have also been made for 'darshan' of devotees," he added.

"'Nabajaubana Darshan' will be held on July 14. There is a very restricted time in the afternoon for that particular 'darshan'," he mentioned.

The chief administrator of the Jagannath Temple noted that idols will be carried from the 'Ratna Singhasan' to the chariots, and will travel to Shri Gundicha Temple.

"Several infrastructural developmental are being carried out at the premises of the Gundicha Temple," Padhee said.

"We wish that the devotees have an enriching experience of 'darshan' at Gundicha Temple, which is the birthplace of the deities," he added.

Maintaining that the congregation of the Rath Yatra procession will be huge, Padhee said: "Police and district administration along with all other arms of the government, have lent out huge support to the arrangements. Huge number of police personnel is being deployed."

He added that there will be certain traffic restrictions in view of the procession.

Arabinda Kumar Padhee said that traditional Odissi artworks are being made in front of the 'Singh Dwar' of Shri Jagannath Temple as well as near Gundicha Temple.

Diptranjan Nayak, one of the workers involved in making a folk art at the Jagannath Temple premises, said he has been working there for the past six years.

"It is only with Lord Jagannath's blessings that I got this opportunity. Not everyone gets the chance to serve here, and I feel truly fortunate. I come here to work for the God every year," he told IANS.

Nayak added: "When we came here, on July 1, it was raining heavily due to which we were stressed that how will the procession take place. All of us prayed to the God and it is the divine power of the 'Mahaprabhu' that the rains stopped from that day itself, and we could start working."

He mentioned that 40 artistes are working at the place right now.

"Some of the artistes are working here (at the Jagannath Temple) and the others at the Mausi Maa Temple," he said.

Describing the experience of witnessing the Rath Yatra, Nayak said: "This is once in a year that the Lord (Jagannath) will bestow his sight to the devotees (during the Rath Yatra) irrespective of their caste, creed or religion. It is a magnificent spectacle."

Source: IANS

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