National

Rahul Gandhi: Time to leave politics on air pollution and find collective solutions

23-Nov-2024 1339

Rahul Gandhi along with environmentalist Vimlendu Jha, discuss the current air pollution crisis and the various reasons it has exacerbated.

Urging the entire nation to act collectively, Leader of Opposition and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi called the air pollution situation a “national emergency” on Friday. Asserting all Members of Parliament to come together and discuss the air pollution crisis without any political blame game, the Congress leader, in an interview with environmentalist Vimlendu Jha, said, “The poorest among us suffer the most, unable to escape the toxic air that surrounds them. Families are gasping for clean air, children are falling sick and millions of lives are being cut short. Tourism is declining and our global reputation is crumbling.”

In his post along with the video, the Congress leader said air pollution in North India is a national emergency — a public health crisis that is stealing our children’s future and suffocating the elderly, and an environmental and economic disaster that is ruining countless lives.

The cloud of pollution covers hundreds of kilometres. Cleaning it up will need major changes and decisive action — from governments, companies, experts and citizens. We need a collective national response, not political blame games,” he added.

Standing in front of the India Gate, Gandhi said he is himself experiencing breathing issues and itchy eyes. With the Parliament’s Winter session around the corner, MPs “will all be reminded of the crisis by our irritated eyes and sore throats”, Gandhi said. “The current AQI was at 396, which is under “very poor ” to “severe ” category of air quality”, says Jha while beginning the conversation.

Festive offer

In the video posted on X, the Congress leader asks about the contributors of the air pollution crisis who responds by saying that there are both episodic sources and perennial sources that act together. While stubble burning and firecrackers are episodic sources, vehicular emissions that contribute to 50 per cent of the polluted air in Delhi is a perennial source. “The average life expectancy of a Delhiite is reduced by 10-12 years,” Jha says in the video.

Jha highlights that stubble burning is an issue but only for three weeks and disproportionate blame should not be levied on them and that there is a need to provide the farmers with incentives. He further says, “Construction and demolition dust is the other 30 per cent of the contributors.”

The environmentalist, in conversation with Gandhi, calls for bringing about lifestyle changes to deal with the air pollution crisis. “ The air-quality monitors in Indian cities often don’t work, and when they work, they show outdated readings,” Jha mentions. “The damage due to air pollution is a year long problem but people only realise it for a month,” Gandhi adds.(Agency)

Supreme Court stresses on fair trial in verdict against Yasin Malik.

21-Nov-2024 974

The Supreme Court was hearing a CBI plea against order to produce Yasin Malik physically in Jammu court for trial.

The Supreme Court on Thursday observed that even terrorist Ajmal Kasab was given a fair trial, while hearing an appeal by the CBI against an order to physically produce Kashmiri separatist and terror convict Yasin Malik to a Jammu court for trial in connection with a case relating to the killing of 4 IAF personnel in 1989, Live Law reported. The CBI had cited security concerns and taken exception to the order to produce Malik physically.

CBI Raises Security Concerns

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told a bench comprising Justice Abhay S Oka and Justice Augustine George Masih that the Kashmiri separatist could not be taken all the way from Delhi’s Tihar Jail to Jammu for trial. “The safety of the witnesses was also a matter of concern," he added. Taking note of the concern, the top court suggested that a makeshift courtroom could be set up in jail to physically cross-examine Malik, Bar and Bench reported.

“In our country, fair trial was given even to Ajmal Kasab. A courtroom can be set up in jail and it can be done there, just find out how many witnesses. Even witnesses will need security. We need to see how the judge will be posted in jail only for this court," Justice Oka said.

Mehta reiterated that the CBI does not wish to take the terror convict to Jammu and Kashmir for trial. ‘Yasin Malik Not Just Another Terrorist, Govt Cannot Go By Books’: Tushar Mehta “But how can cross-examination can be done in VC?" Justice Oka then asked, as per Bar and Bench.

The SG said that Yasin Malik is “not just another terrorist" and the Centre “cannot go by the books" in his case. He also cited the instances of his travel to Pakistan and meetings with Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafeez Saeed.

“If he (Malik) is adamant to appear personally, then the trial can be shifted here (to Delhi). He is not just another terrorist. Government cannot go by the books in such cases; he frequently travelled to Pakistan and shared the dais with Hafeez Saeed … In Gujarat, there was even trial in jail," the SG replied, reported Bar and Bench.

What Is The Matter?

A Jammu special court had ordered Malik’s physical appearance for cross-examination of witnesses in two cases – the abduction of Rubaiya Sayeed who was the daughter of former Chief Minister Mufti Muhammad Sayeed in 1989, and the killing of four IAF personnel. The CBI had challenged the trial court’s order before the top court which, in April last year, issued a notice in the matter and stayed the lower court’s order.

Notably, terror convict Malik was physically present during a hearing in July 2023 hearing of the matter in the Supreme Court, after informing the jail authorities that he wanted to physically attend the hearing. Justice Dipankar Datta had recused himself from hearing the case back then. Soon after the appearance, Tushar Mehta had written a letter to Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla stating that Yasin Malik’s presence in the top court was a grave security lapse.(Agency)

Ensure Process Of Law Not Grueling For Citizens': CJI Sanjiv Khanna Lists Top Priorities In Next 6 Months

12-Nov-2024 970

CJI Sanjiv Khanna aims to work on reducing trial duration through adoption of a systematic approach, and positioning justice delivery mechanism to ensure that process of law is not grueling for the citizens.

The Chief Justice has further underscored the need for focused reforms on criminal case management. Justice Sanjiv Khanna took oath as the 51st Chief Justice of India on Monday. In a press release, the new CJI has outlined his priorities in the next six months at the top court. CJI Khanna has highlighted the need to tackle case backlogs, making litigation affordable and accessible, and a need for simplifying complex legal procedures.

With a citizen centric agenda, the Chief Justice further outlined his vision to make courts approachable and user friendly. He aims to adopt a self-evaluative approach which is receptive and responsive to feedback in its working. Making judgments comprehensible to the citizens and promoting mediation will be a priority of the Chief Justice. The Chief Justice has further underscored the need for focused reforms on criminal case management.

ALSO READ | A Candid Judge With Sharp Eye For Detail: A Look At CJI Sanjiv Khanna's Tenure At Supreme Court

He aims to work on reducing trial duration through adoption of a systematic approach, and positioning justice delivery mechanism to ensure that process of law is not grueling for the citizens, as one of the top priorities.

Expressing immense honour in heading the third wing of democracy, he emphasised – “Judiciary is an integral, yet distinct and independent part of the governance system.

"The Constitution trusts upon us the role of constitutional guardian, protector of Fundamental Rights, and responsibility to fulfill the important task of being service provider of justice,” CJI said.

ALSO READ | CJI Sanjiv Khanna Says No To Oral Mentioning For Urgent Matters, Asks Lawyers To Write E-Mails

CJI Khanna further stated that Justice delivery framework in terms of providing equal treatment necessitates fair opportunity to succeed to all, regardless of status, wealth or power, and a just and unbiased adjudication. "These mark our core principles”

“The responsibility entrusted upon us affirms our commitment as protectors of citizens’ rights and as dispute resolvers. It is our constitutional duty to ensure easy access to justice to all citizens of our great nation.”, the Chief Justice of India said. (Agency)

TMC chief Mamata Banerjee is famous for struggle, simplicity and honesty: Azad.

22-Oct-2024 1763

TNINS

Arvind Pathak

Senior journalist

Darbhanga : Former cricketer and MP Kirti Azad has said that West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC chief Mamata Banerjee is famous for struggle, simplicity and honesty. She never does caste and religion politics.

Mr. Azad said this here yesterday. He said that the BJP does caste and religion politics and is engaged in weakening the Constitution, country and society.

In solving regional complexities in South Asia Now is the time to mobilize the SAARC regional alliance

15-Oct-2024 2440

TNINS

Md. Abdur Rahman

Secretary General

SAARC Journalists Forum (Central Committee)

Kathmandu, Nepal.

The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is a regional alliance of South Asian states Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Increasing inter-regional cooperation It is very urgent at this moment to reorganize or speed up the South Asian Regional Cooperation Organization (SAARC), which was formed for the economic and social development of the countries in the region.

In the late 70s, the South Asian nations of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka agreed to create a trade bloc and provide a platform for the people of the region. It should be noted that the former president of Bangladesh, Shahid Ziaur Rahman, was the dreamer of the establishment of SAARC.

In 1979, the then president of Bangladesh, Shahid Ziaur Rahman, took the initiative to form a regional cooperation organization in the South Asian region. In May 1980, he presented a formal proposal of Bangladesh to the governments and heads of state of 7 South Asian countries.

The heads of state and government of seven South Asian countries responded to this proposal after overcoming initial hesitation. At the First Conference of Foreign Secretaries of South Asian States held in Colombo from 21 to 23 April 1981, some necessary steps were taken to form the desired organization. Then in August 1983, the foreign ministers of the seven countries of the region met in Delhi for their first formal meeting.

In this meeting, the cabinet adopted a program called Integrated Program of Action (IPA). Under this programme, nine areas have been identified for carrying out various tasks as a means of cooperation among the SAARC countries. Then on 7-8 December 1985, the official organizational structure of SAARC (SAARC- South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation) or South Asian Regional Cooperation Organization was approved and its journey began.

Revival of the stagnant SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) regional alliance is essential for the development and dynamism of South Asia. Despite South Asia being one of the most populous and economically promising regions in the world, SAARC's ineffectiveness and political conflicts are hampering the region's prospects.

Now is the time to reactivate this alliance so that South Asian countries can work together in mutual trade, communication, education, health, technology and other important areas. Through this, it will be possible to make an important contribution not only to regional stability, but also to the global economy.

Recently Bangladesh's Chief Advisor Prof. Dr. Yunus has called for SAARC's restructuring or dynamism.

The head of the Interim Government of Bangladesh and the Nobel Peace Prize laureate said that the spirit of the South Asian Regional Cooperation Organization (SAARC) needs to be revived. Muhammad Yunus. He said in a press release, this alliance of eight nations can solve many regional problems. Although SAARC was established with a noble purpose, it is now limited to paper and is not functioning now.

Despite South Asia's diverse culture, large population and growing economic potential, SAARC has not effectively achieved its goals.

Reasons for SAARC stagnation:

Political conflict:

The long-term conflict between India and Pakistan, in particular, has hampered SAARC operations the most. Complete development of SAARC is not possible without solving the problem between these two countries. Internal Challenges: Every country in South Asia faces internal political, social, and economic challenges. Due to this, it was not possible for them to give full attention to the activities of SAARC.

Economic and Trade Barriers:

One of SAARC's main goals is to increase trade, but there are many barriers to cross-border trade and communication between member countries. Trade barriers remain due to the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) not being fully implemented.

Circumstances of Rejuvenation:

Regional Stability and Prosperity: South Asian countries working together will enhance regional prosperity and stability. By eliminating military and political conflicts, member countries can achieve regional security, peace and progress.

Increase in trade and investment:

If trade barriers within SAARC can be removed and free trade opportunities are created among member countries, the regional economy will improve greatly. Besides, it is possible to increase connectivity between countries by improving infrastructure and transportation systems.

Social Development:

Through SAARC, member countries can develop through mutual cooperation in various social sectors including education, health, technology, environment and climate change. A large part of the population of South Asia is still poor, and it is necessary to work together to solve these problems.

Global Introduction:

If SAARC is strengthened, it will be able to represent South Asia more effectively on the international stage. It will help enhance global trade and diplomatic relations among member countries.

Next steps:

Peaceful dialogue between India and Pakistan: To make SAARC dynamic, political issues between India and Pakistan need to be resolved first. Cooperation between these two countries is the key to the progress of SAARC.

Reducing trade barriers:

Member countries should work together to facilitate cross-border trade and implement free trade agreements. Through this it will be possible to increase economic coordination.

Internal Reinforcement:

Member countries should strive to solve their internal social and economic problems so that they can participate fully in regional cooperation.

SAARC must be reactivated to ensure economic development and regional peace in South Asia. In this regard, the political deadlock between the member states should be removed and effective measures should be taken in trade, communication, and other economic and social areas through mutual cooperation. This will make South Asia more dynamic, which will help SAARC achieve its core goals.

Need to revive SAARC: The following steps can be taken to reactivate and reactivate the CIRC:

Breaking the political deadlock: Diplomatic initiatives should be taken to resolve the long-standing issues between India and Pakistan. Implementation of SAARC will be difficult without resolution of these conflicts.

Trade Enhancing Initiatives: SAARC should be developed into an effective trading alliance by removing trade barriers among member countries. Initiatives should be taken to facilitate infrastructure, logistics, and tariffs to expand trade.

Increased Interconnection: Regional trade and cooperation should be enhanced by increasing rail, road and sea connectivity between member countries. Along with this, cooperation in the field of electricity and energy should also be increased.

Technology and Innovation: South Asian member countries need to invest in technological cooperation and innovative projects, which can give a new dimension to the economy of the region.

Cooperation with other regional alliances: SAARC should enhance cooperation with other regional alliances such as BIMSTEC and ASEAN, so that development work can be coordinated. The revival and activation of SAARC is important not only in terms of regional trade and economy, but also in maintaining political stability and security.

Conclusion: The revival of SAARC is important not only from a regional but also from a global perspective. The collective progress of South Asian countries can lead the people of the region to new horizons of development. Now is the time to harness SAARC with renewed vigor to transform South Asia into a united, peaceful and prosperous region.

SAARC journalist forum

Kathmandu-Nepal.

www.sarcjournalistforum.org

Email: [email protected]

Chhattisgarh CM meets Prime Minister Narendra Modi

08-Oct-2024 1943

TNINS

Discusses development plans of Chhattisgarh and Naxal eradication

Expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for approval of eight lakh houses

New Delhi : Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai today met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his residence. During this, the Chief Minister gave information about the development work done in the state during the last nine months, highlighting the major initiatives taken in the field of agriculture, skill development and education. Along with this, he shared information about the recent successful Naxal operation in the state with the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister praised the courage of the security forces on the success of this operation. During the meeting, he also thanked Narendra Modi for approving eight lakh houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.

The Chief Minister gave detailed information to the Prime Minister on the ongoing operation against Naxals in the state and the progress of development works. Referring to the recent operation in Narayanpur-Dantewada district, he said that the security forces have killed 31 Naxals which is the biggest Naxal operation in the state so far. Chief Minister Sai also presented details of the development work going on in Chhattisgarh. He informed that the state government is paying special attention to the development of roads, schools, hospitals and other infrastructure. Special efforts are also being made for employment generation and rural development, so that people from Naxal-affected areas can join the mainstream. Prime Minister Modi praised the success and said that this is not only restoring peace in the state, but is also paving the way for development.

Chief Minister Sai informed that the government is running special schemes for skill development of youth in Bastar and tribal areas. Under these schemes, youth are being given various technical and vocational training, so that they can get better employment opportunities by getting higher education. This initiative is playing an important role in the social and economic development of the state.

In the field of agriculture, Chief Minister Sai told the Prime Minister that digital technology and advanced agricultural methods are being widely used in Chhattisgarh. This is increasing the productivity of farmers and their income. The Chief Minister said that these efforts are in sync with the Prime Minister's goal of “Developed India 2047”, and Chhattisgarh is playing an important role in this direction.

The state has also made major changes in the field of education. The Chief Minister told the Prime Minister that children in tribal areas are being provided education in their mother tongue, which is improving the educational progress of children. Also, special attention is being given to technical education, so that the children of the state can be trained in modern technologies and prepare for the future.

Prime Minister Modi appreciated these efforts of the Chhattisgarh government and said that the development journey of the state is an inspiration for other states. He assured Chief Minister Sai of even more support and cooperation for the progress of the state.

Chief Minister expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the approval of a large number of houses and said that under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin, the dream of lakhs of families to have their own house has come true, which will create a sense of stability and security in their lives.

Ending the Russia-Ukraine deadlock may be the focus of PM Modi's US visit

21-Sep-2024 2112

Bilateral meetings : roundtables with CEOs, and diaspora events may form the bulk of Narendra Modi’s United States visit from September 21-23 but there is one aspect which will be the prime minister’s top priority — peace in Europe amid concerns about the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war on the Global South.

In his third term, PM Modi has visited Europe twice and is among the few world leaders who has held talks with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskyy. After Putin, Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni has also shown faith in India’s ability to resolve the stalemate.

India enjoys a unique advantage — neither is it part of NATO, nor does it have any ulterior motive except restoring peace in Europe. This makes the country a comfortable player with whom everyone is ready to talk. PM Modi is also a world leader who has personally invested in the effort to end the conflict. He spoke to both US President Joe Biden and Putin after returning from Kyiv. Later, he sent National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval to personally brief Putin on his Kyiv visit.

While India does not have a peace formula yet, foreign secretary Vikram Misri, during a briefing in New Delhi ahead of PM Modi’s US visit, said India is involved in a set of conversations with several important partners and leaders.

He added that till now, India has proposed that this is not an era of war, solutions cannot be found on the battlefield, and there can be no peace talks without all stakeholders.

This is the first time the prime minister is travelling to America in his third term, equipped with a better understanding of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. When he meets QUAD leaders in Delaware, the war is likely to be discussed. It is expected that PM Modi can share the viewpoints of both Russia and Ukraine apart from other countries in Europe and stress on the contribution India has made in the ongoing peace efforts.

Many experts believe that this time, the language of the paragraph on the Russia-Ukraine conflict in the QUAD’s joint statement could change to reflect the views of all members, including PM Modi’s assertion on the effect of the war on the Global South.

On September 21, PM Modi will meet Biden and, exactly a month later, he is likely to meet Putin on the sidelines of BRICS in Kazan following a proposal by the Russian President for a meeting.

PM Modi will also address world leaders at the Summit of the Future in United Nations during his visit. The theme of the summit is ‘Multilateral Solutions for a Better Tomorrow’ and the prime minister, in his key address, could talk about his visits to Russia and Ukraine and give a message of peace to the world.

PM Modi had faced criticism from Western geo-political experts for visiting Moscow and hugging Putin. However, he silenced his detractors when he not only visited Ukraine but also contributed to peace talks — making the world sit up and take notice of India’s efforts to bring peace to Europe.(Agency)

Today Kejriwal will resign from the post of CM...

17-Sep-2024 1995

New Delhi : A series of meetings is going on in the Aam Aadmi Party. Delhi Chief Minister and AAP convenor Arvind Kejriwal is going to resign from the post of CM. It is being told that Kejriwal will meet the LG at 4.30 pm and submit his resignation, after which Delhi will get a new Chief Minister. There is also a possibility that the command of Delhi can be given to a minority or Sunita Kejriwal.

AAP sources said that apart from these, a member of the minority community can also be made the Chief Minister as the party has seen a decline in its support in the community since the 2020 Delhi riots. He said that in such a scenario, Delhi Minister Imran Hussain is also likely to be chosen. The Bharatiya Janata Party has said that Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal's resignation from the post of Chief Minister is not a decision taken in accordance with "principles", but out of "compulsion".

After being released from Tihar Jail on bail in the excise policy case, AAP national convener Kejriwal had said on Sunday that he would resign within 48 hours and demand early elections in Delhi. He had said that he would not sit on the Chief Minister's chair until the people give him a "certificate of honesty". Kejriwal had said that he would hold a meeting of AAP MLAs in a few days and a party leader would become the Chief Minister. AAP held several meetings on Monday.

Kejriwal held 'one by one' meetings with members of the party's highest decision-making body - Political Affairs Committee (PAC) - at his official residence and sought their opinion on the next Chief Minister. He had met senior leaders including former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia and Rajya Sabha member Raghav Chadha about the party's choice for the post of Chief Minister. Party insiders said that the names of Delhi ministers Atishi, Gopal Rai, Kailash Gehlot and Saurabh Bhardwaj are in discussion as possible contenders for the post of Chief Minister.

He said that Kejriwal's wife Sunita Kejriwal and Assembly Speaker Ram Niwas Goyal are also considered contenders. He said that Deputy Speaker of Delhi Assembly Rakhi Birla and MLA from Kondli Kuldeep Kumar are also potential contenders. Let us tell you that in view of the possibility of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal resigning on Tuesday, before that there will be a meeting of the Aam Aadmi Party Legislature Party, in which the name of the new Chief Minister will be discussed. Kejriwal will meet Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena at 4:30 pm and during this time he is likely to submit his resignation.(Agency)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Metro train service inaugurated between Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar

17-Sep-2024 1698

Ahmedabad : Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the second phase of the metro today on 16 September. Metro Phase-2 will connect Motera in Ahmedabad to Gandhinagar Sector-1. Not only this, but a corridor of Metro Phase-2 will connect GIFT City, Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad. PM Narendra Modi has inaugurated the 20.8 km long corridor and 8 stations of Phase 2. In the coming time, the metro will go to Secretariat, Akshardham, Old Secretariat, Sector 16, Sector 24 and Mahatma Mandir.

Motera to Sector 1 is 15.4 km and includes 6 stations and 5.4 km 2 station link lines. Ahmedabad Metro Rail Project Phase-2 is connected between Motera and Gandhinagar. Phase 2 is a continuation of the North-South Metro Corridor of Ahmedabad Metro Phase-1. The main line is an extension of the Motera line from APMC and goes to Mahatma Mandir. The branch line starts from GNLU and ends at GIFT City.

It is worth noting that the total length of Metro Phase 2 rail line is 28.2 km. It includes 22.8 km main line and 5.4 km branch line. The main line has 20 stations and the branch line has 2 stations. The total cost of Metro Phase-2 project is Rs 5,384 crore.(Agency)

Session of new students of JSS Academy begins.

10-Sep-2024 1804

TNINS

M.K.Madhubala

Journalist.

Noida : The course of new students of the session 2024-25 of Noida's prestigious JSS Academy of Technical Education started today.

In a grand ceremony organized on this occasion, the Principal of the college, Prof. (Dr.) Amarjit Singh made the new students aware of the dignified stories of the college and wished the new students a brighter future. On this occasion, the college's Accounts Manager Manoj Kumar and Registrar Dr. S.S. Tharoor, besides the heads and teachers of various faculties were present.

The chief guest of the program, Head and Director of Kalanidhi Division of IGNOU, Prof. (Dr.) R.C. Gaur, in his address said that students are the future of the country, so we have to study diligently. L.S.

Atrocities on journalists will not be tolerated: Vidrohi

09-Sep-2024 1460

TNINS

Muzaffarpur : National President of Indian Journalist Association (IJA) Ramnath Vidrohi said today that atrocities on journalists will not be tolerated. Mr. Vidrohi said this in the organization's meeting held at Bihar Club Dumri (Gobarsahi) here. On this occasion, Govind Kumar was nominated as the working president. Along with this, the appointment of a new working district president was discussed for the expansion of the organization. The new working president was given time to expand the district committee within three months.

The killers of journalist Shivshankar Jha should be hanged, said Mr. Vidrohi. Strict action should be taken against those who threatened him at his house. At the same time, journalist Gaurav's family should get proper justice. The Journalist Protection Act should be implemented as soon as possible, he said.

National Vice President Pramod Kumar said that the conspiracy done in the journalist murder case should be exposed. A guideline should be issued by the organization that news should be published unitedly in the interest of journalists, he said.

In this meeting, threats given to Motipur journalist Dharmachandra Yadav regarding news were condemned. Apart from Mr. Vidrohi, National Treasurer Santosh Kumar, National General Secretary SP Satyam, District President Rajan Singh, Govind Kumar, Kritishwar Kumar, Umesh Kumar, Rajnarayan Yadav, Roshan Kumar, Rajiv Ranjan, Rahul Kumar, Sheela Chandra, RK Chotan, Rahul Kumar Singh, Dharmachandra Yadav, Raghunath Kumar, Manjay Kumar and other journalists were present in this meeting. L.S.

SAARC Journalist Forum President Lama will participate in the 79th General Assembly of the United Nations

09-Sep-2024 1589

TNINS

Kathmandu : Raju Lama, International President of SAARC Journalist Forum, is going to participate in the 79th General Assembly of the United Nations representing the journalists of SAARC countries. The General Assembly is starting from September 10 at the United Nations headquarters in New York.

President Lama will participate in the General Assembly to be held at the United Nations headquarters in New York on September 20 and 21 and will inform about the situation of South Asian journalists, their experiences, human rights and the role they played in peacekeeping.

He said that by actively participating in the 'Sideline Meeting' held at that time, in the group discussion, the journalists in the SAARC region would inform about the role played by the SAARC Journalist Forum to establish peace in their respective countries, protect democracy and protect human rights.

UN Secretary General António Guterres will address the meeting of the General Assembly. SAARC Journalist Forum is an international organization established to protect the rights of South Asian journalists. Its headquarters is in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Bangladesh Chapter of SAARC Journalist Forum has been formed.

09-Sep-2024 1285

TNINS

Bangladesh : We would like to inform that SAARC Journalist Forum SJF executive committee had approved the 10 members committee of SAARC Journalist Forum SJF Bangladesh Chapter.

The Bangladesh Chapter of SAARC Journalist Forum has been formed with Nasir Al Mamoon of the Daily Ajkal as its President and Shiabur Rahman of The Financial Express as General Secretary.

The committee was constituted at a meeting held on Saturday afternoon at the National Press Club in Dhaka with Abdur Rahman, Central Secretary General of SAARC Journalist Forum, in the chair.

Other office bearers are Vice-presidents Asif Hasan Nabi (Ajker Probhat) and Shariful Islam (Janakantha), Joint General Secretary Shahed Matiur Rahman (Nayadiganta). Treasurer Reza Mahmud (New Nation) and Executive Member Rafiqul Islam Azad (Daily Industry), MA Noman (NTV), Rashed Ahmed (New Age) and Md. Mustafa Khan (Ittefaq).

Executive Committee would like to congratulates all leaders of SAARC Journalist Forum SJF Bangladesh Chapter and wishes a successful tenure.

SAARC Journalist Forum President's Guest Lecture on “Insights on Journalism”

28-Aug-2024 2015

TNINS

Delhi : The Training & Placement Cell of Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, Maharaja Agrasen Institute of Management Studies organised a Guest Lecture on “Insights on Journalism” on 27th August 2024. The Guest for the event was Mr. Raju Lama, President, SAARC Journalist Forum, Editor, Times Asian.

Dr. Nand Kishore Garg, founder chairman and chief adviser at MAIMS, extended a warm welcome to the guest by presenting him with a sapling and a commemorative memento. These tokens of appreciation were given in recognition of the guest's valuable time and insightful contribution to the students' understanding of journalism.

Mr. Raju Lama delivered a comprehensive briefing on Journalism to BA (JMC) students, offering an in-depth exploration of the field. The session aimed to provide a thorough understanding of Journalism, covering its core principles, current challenges, and the dynamic changes within the media landscape.

Mr. Lama highlighted the relationship of India and Nepal and its current Journalistic trends in SAARC Countries. He provided a detailed overview of how journalism is evolving in these regions, discussing the impact of digital media, issues related to press freedom, and the influence of political and cultural factors.

His analysis offered students valuable insights into the common challenges faced by journalists across these countries and the strategies being employed to address them. Additionally, Mr. Lama discussed the special opportunities and challenges that journalists encounter when working across borders.

His insights helped students see how local issues connect with global journalism trends, giving them a clearer view of the media’s role in our interconnected world.

The event was brought to its fruition by a Vote of Thanks from Dr. Umesh C. Pathak, Head, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication and a group photograph with Mr. Raju Lama, Faculty members and students.

Politics once stood for service, dedication, and loyalty: Pandey.

28-Aug-2024 1607

TNINS

Dr. Samrendra Pathak

Senior journalist.

New Delhi : Veteran leader Mani Shankar Pandey, who has been in the company of two Prime Ministers of the country, has said that earlier there was a sense of service, dedication and loyalty in politics, but now it has declined a lot.

Former Legislative Councilor Mr. Pandey, who was the head of NSUI in Kashi Hindu University five decades ago, said this during an interview. He said that at that time Gandhism had an influence on Indian politics.

Mr. Pandey said that earlier leaders used to have a special dress. They used to wear kurta dhoti or pajamas. There used to be a Gandhi cap on the head. There was a desire in their mind to do something for the nation. There was a sense of service, dedication and loyalty, but with time all these things have changed a lot.

He said that earlier these things were closely observed among the people going to Legislative Bodies and Parliament, but now apart from this, caste, religion and gender are also observed. Money system has become a big factor.

In response to a question, National Vice President of LJP (Ram Vilas) Shri Pandey said that Rajiv Gandhi is the father of communication revolution in the country. Narasimha Rao is the pioneer of economic liberalization. During the tenure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, there has been a lot of development in these areas and now the world is also looking at India as a leading nation. L.S.

PM Narendra Modi arrived in Poland on a two-day visit

22-Aug-2024 1786

New Delhi/ Warsaw : Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reached Poland in the first leg of his two-nation visit. This is also the first visit of an Indian Prime Minister to Poland in the last 45 years. During this, PM Modi was given a rousing welcome at Warsaw airport. PM Modi will be on a visit to Poland on 21 and 22 August and after that he will visit Kiev, the capital of war-torn Ukraine, on 23 August. PM Modi's visit to Poland is taking place when both the countries are completing 70 years of their diplomatic relations. After reaching Poland, PM Modi paid floral tribute at the Jam Saheb of Navanagar memorial in Warsaw.

In his statement before leaving for Poland, Prime Minister Modi had said, My visit to Poland is taking place at a time when we are marking the 70th anniversary of our diplomatic relations. Poland is a major economic partner in Central Europe. Our mutual commitment to democracy and pluralism further strengthens our relations.(Agency)

Rain wreaks havoc in many parts of the country, Many people died

01-Aug-2024 777

Shimla : Cloudburst has caused devastation in the upper parts of Shimla, Kullu and Mandi districts. Cloudburst caused flood near the hydro project in Samej Khad in Jhakri area of Rampur Umandal of Shimla district at midnight created havoc and 22 people went missing. Similarly, the flood after heavy rain in Tikkan Thaltu Kod of Chohar Valley of Mandi district damaged many houses and people ran towards the forest to save themselves and about three people are reported missing. Heavy rain since midnight in Kullu district has caused a huge increase in the water level of rivers and streams. Dam of Power Project 1 burst in Malana. Roads, bridges and lands were heavily damaged due to the dam burst. An alert was issued to people around Bhuntar due to heavy flood in Parvati river. A huge tragedy has occurred due to flood in Bagipul of Kullu district. Many houses have been washed away.

According to the State Emergency Operations Center, 114 houses have been damaged due to rain and landslides during the monsoon season in the state. Out of these, 19 houses were completely destroyed, while 95 houses were partially damaged. Apart from this, five shops and 87 cattle sheds also collapsed. Property worth Rs 433 crore has been damaged in the monsoon season in the state. The Public Works Department has suffered a loss of Rs 189 crore in this. In the last one month, 131 people have died in rain-related incidents in the state. In this, 66 people lost their lives in road accidents. While 65 deaths have occurred due to slipping from height, drowning and flowing, electric shock and snake bite. Mandi District Magistrate Apurva Devgan has also left for relief and rescue operations at the incident site.

However, due to heavy rain, the road routes have also been blocked. There has been a huge loss of life and property due to cloudburst in Rampur, Shimla. The flood in Samej Khad last night brought devastation in the surrounding villages. After receiving information about the cloudburst on Thursday morning, Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap and Superintendent of Police Sanjeev Gandhi have also left. The SDRF team is also reaching the spot.

Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap said that 19 people are reported missing from the area affected by the cloudburst. SDM Rampur Nishant Tomar is reaching the spot. Due to the road being closed at many places, they had to cover a distance of two kilometers on foot with equipment. Anupam Kashyap said that relief work has been started immediately. ITBP, Special Home Guard contingent has also been included in the rescue team. He said that all the teams are working together in the rescue operations. All basic facilities including ambulance have been included in the rescue operation. He said that a committee has been formed under the chairmanship of Additional Deputy Commissioner in which police, home guard, fire brigade, Sunni Dam management and other departments have been included.

The Rampur area of Shimla where the flood caused devastation is adjacent to Kullu district. According to information, the cloudburst in Shrikhand hills caused a massive flood in Kurpan, Samej and Ganvi ravines. Nearly two dozen houses and many vehicles have also been washed away. According to information, school buildings and dispensaries were also washed away in the flood. The ravine flowing alongside Ganvi in Shimla district and Bagipul bazaar in Kullu district also caused devastation and many buildings were damaged. Due to cloudburst near Nain Sarovar on Shrikhand hills, the flow of water increased in three khados i.e. small rivers, which took the form of floods after coming down. Malana Project Dam 2 has also been damaged due to the flood.

Devastation in Uttarakhand, 8 people dead, many missing

The havoc caused by torrential rains in Uttarakhand continues. People coming for the Char Dham Yatra have been instructed to stay at safe places. There are reports of landslides, cloudbursts, and flooding of rivers and streams due to heavy rains in many parts of the state. In this episode, a cloudburst occurred in the Nautad Gadre near Jakhanyali in Tehri-Ghansali, in which 2 people died. Kedarnath Yatra has been suspended for the time being due to heavy rains in Rudraprayag as well. Two bridges have been washed away on the Kedarnath footpath and in Bhimbali. The work of evacuating about 200 people trapped in Bhimbali is underway. So far 8 people have died due to the havoc of rain, while 5 people are reported missing. Three people have died due to cloudburst in Tehri. One person died due to being swept away in a rain drain in Dehradun, while one person is missing. A house collapsed in Gairsain of Chamoli, in which a woman died. Two children also died in a house collapse in village Bhauri of Haridwar. Two children were swept away in separate incidents in Haldwani and Bageshwar.

No relief for now: Torrential rains to occur in a dozen states

It is raining in many states of the country. While heavy rains have been warned in about a dozen states. There is little chance of the state getting relief for the next few days. Apart from this, monsoon rains are going to occur in many states of the country including Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR. At the same time, a yellow alert has been issued for the next two days in about 5 districts of Kerala, which faced a major disaster just two days ago. According to Skymet, moderate to heavy rains may occur in Punjab, Haryana, West Uttar Pradesh, Northeast Rajasthan and parts of Delhi NCR today, Thursday. Whereas, light to moderate rains are expected in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, coastal Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh and Odisha. Similar weather may occur in Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Rajasthan. According to the official website of the Kerala government, a yellow alert has been issued on August 1 in Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, Kasaragod of the state. Apart from this, there is a yellow alert in Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, Kasargod on August 2. According to the agency, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu of South India may also face showers on Thursday.

Deaths continue after the landslide in Wayanad, Kerala. According to the report, the death toll has reached 276 so far. At the same time, more than 200 people are still missing. It is reported that Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra are reaching Wayanad today. The special thing is that Rahul had recently won the Lok Sabha elections 2024 from Wayanad. The Meteorological Department had told on Wednesday night that there is a possibility of heavy rain at some places in West Madhya Pradesh till August 4, Gujarat on August 2, Chhattisgarh and Marathwada on August 3, Vidarbha on August 4, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, East Rajasthan till August 4, Uttar Pradesh on August 2 and 3, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh on August 2, North West Rajasthan, Delhi till August 1.

The Meteorological Department said that Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh may receive very heavy rain on August 1. Here, the capital Delhi also does not seem to get relief from rain. The situation has worsened to such an extent that waterlogging has occurred at many important places in the city including Old Rajendra Nagar. The government has declared a holiday for schools in the city on Thursday. The special thing is that a few days ago, three students preparing for IAS had died due to waterlogging in a coaching institute run in the basement.(Agency)

‘Union Budget 2024-25’ is a budget that takes development to new heights; Finance Minister and the entire team deserve congratulations: Prime Minister

24-Jul-2024 573

New Delhi : Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman presented the 'Union Budget 2024-25' in Parliament today. Reacting to this budget, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that I congratulate all the countrymen for this important budget that takes the country to new heights of development. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman ji and her entire team deserve many congratulations.

This budget is a budget that empowers every section of the society. This is a budget to take the villages, poor and farmers of the country on the path of prosperity. In the last 10 years, 25 crore people have come out of poverty. This neo middle class that has been formed, this budget is a budget of continuation of their empowerment. This is a budget to give countless new opportunities to the youth. This budget will give a new scale to education and skill. This is a budget to give new strength to the middle class. It has come with strong schemes to empower the tribal society, Dalits, backward classes. This budget will help in ensuring the economic participation of women. This budget will provide a new path of progress to small traders, MSMEs, i.e. small industries. The budget also focuses on manufacturing and infrastructure. This will give new impetus to economic development and will also provide continuity to the momentum.

Friends, creating unprecedented opportunities for employment and self-employment has been the hallmark of our government. Today's budget further strengthens it. The country and the world have seen the success of the PLI scheme. Now in this budget, the government has announced the Employment Linked Incentive Scheme. This will create crores of new jobs in the country. Under this scheme, our government will pay the first salary of the youth who get their first job in life. Whether it is help for skill development and higher education or the internship scheme for 1 crore youth, this will enable my young friends from villages and poor people, my sons and daughters, to work in the top companies of the country, new doors of possibilities will open in front of them. For this purpose, the limit of Mudra loan without guarantee has been increased from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh. This will give impetus to self-employment among small businessmen, especially women, Dalit, backward, tribal families.

This budget has brought a lot of new opportunities for our startups and innovation ecosystem. Be it a fund of Rs 1000 crore to promote space economy or the decision to remove angel tax, many such steps have been taken in this budget. Today, defense exports are at a record level. In this budget, many provisions have been made to make the defense sector self-reliant. Today, the attraction towards India has increased all over the world. And new possibilities have been created in the field of tourism in India. The tourism sector brings many opportunities for the poor and the middle class. In this budget, special emphasis has also been given to the tourism sector.

In the last 10 years, the NDA government has ensured that the poor and the middle class continue to get tax relief. In this budget too, a decision has been taken to reduce income tax and increase standard deduction. The rules of TDS have also been simplified. Every taxpayer is going to get additional savings from these steps. Complete development of the eastern region of India for the development of the country... Our campaign will get new momentum, new energy through the vision of Purvodaya. We will give new impetus to development by building many important infrastructures such as highways, water projects and power projects in eastern India.

Today's budget has brought new opportunities, new energy. It has brought many new jobs and self-employment opportunities. It has brought better growth and bright features. Today's budget will act as a catalyst in the entire process of making India the third largest economic power in the world, it will lay a solid foundation for a developed India. Best wishes to all countrymen.(Agency)