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Don't you feel guilty about selling Bharat Mata Rahul Gandhi criticizes the US accord and the Center
Speaking in the Lok Sabha following days of deadlock, Rahul Gandhi criticized the Central government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for the recently concluded trade agreement with the United States, saying the administration should be embarrassed of it. In a vicious attack, Gandhi said that the Center "sold India" and that the government was endangering farmers' livelihoods by permitting US goods to enter."India is no longer yours. Do you not feel guilty for selling India? In reference to the trade deal, he declared, "You have sold our mother, Bharat Mata." He added that it was a "wholesale surrender" in which the interests of farmers were jeopardized and India's energy security was given to America. Gandhi went on to say that Donald Trump would have been advised to treat India equally if an INDIA Bloc administration had negotiated the trade deal with the US."This is total capitulation. The fact that it is a capitulation by more than simply the prime minister makes it tragic. He has given up the 1.5 billion Indians' future. Gandhi claimed that he had given up the future in order to save the BJP's financial structure, which is the subject of a case in the US.Gandhi claimed that the farmers' interests had been compromised and that they were facing a "storm" as American agricultural products flooded Indian markets. Additionally, he claimed that the Indian textile sector is "finished."We are about to enter a period of unrest, and the country has been sold. The country is sold out. "Its farmers and data have been sold," Gandhi reaffirmed as he wrapped up his remarks.Following Rahul Gandhi's address, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju declared that no one could sell India and charged that the Congress party was undermining the nation. "Congress is sad because India is progressing," he stated, asserting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is India's strongest PM. He claimed that before leaving Parliament, the Congress MP gave speeches full of falsehoods and unfounded accusations. Rijiju remarked, "He never stays back to hear the minister's response."It is regrettable that we lack a serious personality or a person with a serious character that would be appropriate for the role of opposition leader. Rahul Gandhi's lies will be refuted by our party both within and outside the House.
Published 11 Feb 2026 11:10 PM
Updates for the 10th day of the Parliament Budget Session The Government-Opposition deadlock ends, and both Houses begin discussing the budget
The Lok Sabha began discussing the Union Budget on Tuesday, February 10, 2025, in the afternoon, signaling the end of the impasse between the opposition and treasury benches. The discussion had been delayed for days due to the opposition's insistence that LoP Rahul Gandhi be given the opportunity to speak on a number of topics. Following two adjournments, the House reconvened at 2 p.m., and the Speaker, Krishna Prasad Tenneti, invited Congressman Shashi Tharoor to commence the debate. The Thiruvananthapuram MP then began discussing the matter. Soon after opposition parties filed a notice to introduce a motion to oust Om Birla as Speaker of the Lok Sabha, the thaw occurred. Sukhendu Sekhar Roy of the Trinamool Congress emphasized that rising inequality could cause a "social upheaval," akin to what was seen in neighboring countries, as opposition parties criticized the government for failing to address issues like unemployment and inflation in the Union Budget during the budget discussion."If the situation is not brought under control, I fear that the country will soon experience social unrest similar to what has recently occurred in some of our neighboring countries. We have never witnessed such skyrocketing inequality between the rich, super rich, upper middle class, middle class, and the poor," Mr. Roy stated.
Published 11 Feb 2026 11:06 PM
India displays its entire armed might on the 77th Republic Day, with Operation Sindoor taking front stage on the Kartavya Path.
Top national leaders and prominent foreign visitors joined the festivities, which had as their subject 150 years of "Vande Mataram." About 10,000 distinguished guests saw the parade, which combined military might with cultural cohesion.At its 77th Republic Day parade on Monday, January 26, 2026, India put military might front and centre. Kartavya Path was transformed into a sweeping display of missiles, armour, mechanised columns, and combat aircraft, with a keen focus on weapon systems related to Operation Sindoor, the high-intensity military operation carried out in May of last year.The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, Akash air defence system, Suryastra rocket launcher, and Arjun Main Battle Tank were among the major armament systems on exhibit at the start of the military demonstration, which emphasised India's focus on battlefield readiness and domestic defence manufacturing. A large portion of the equipment on exhibit was either used in Operation Sindoor, the confrontation with Pakistan that took place from May 7–10, or it was directly inspired by lessons learnt.A tri-services tableau featuring replicas of key weapon systems used during the operation was a big draw. A glass-cased integrated operational command centre served as its focal point, providing a visual representation of Operation Sindoor's execution through the coordinated use of systems including the S-400 air defence system and BrahMos. Akash and S-400 systems were depicted as offering a protective air-defense shield during the fight, while BrahMos missiles were predicted to perform decisive offensive attacks.Lt. General Bhavnish Kumar, a second-generation officer and General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, led the procession. The Indian Army demonstrated a phased "Battle Array Format," including its airborne component, for the first time. The reconnaissance element included high-mobility reconnaissance vehicles after the historic 61 Cavalry in active battle uniform. Flying in Prahar formation, the domestic Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter and its armed counterpart Rudra displayed aerial battlefield shaping.
Published 27 Jan 2026 09:07 PM
Why rising demonstrations are centered around India's Aravalli hills
The Supreme Court's redefinition of the Aravalli hills, one of the oldest geological formations in the world, which encompass the states of Rajasthan, Haryana, Gujarat, and Delhi, has sparked protests throughout northern India. Any landform rising at least 100 meters (328 feet) above the surrounding terrain is considered an Aravalli hill under the revised definition, which the court adopted in response to proposals from the federal government. An Aravalli range consists of two or more of these hills within 500 meters of one another, as well as the terrain in between. Environmentalists contend that classifying Aravalli hills according to height runs the risk of leaving many lower, scrub-covered but ecologically significant slopes vulnerable to mining and development. However, according to the federal government, the new definition is intended to increase uniformity and reinforce regulations rather than weaken rights.Protests have erupted across northern India after the Supreme Court redefined the Aravalli hills - one of the world's oldest geological formations spanning the states of Rajasthan, Haryana, Gujarat, and the capital, Delhi.
Published 22 Dec 2025 10:25 PM
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Citroen to add more safety features, plans to come with six airbags
French automobile company Citroen has recently announced adding six airbags as a standard to raise the safety standards of its offerings in India. The French carmaker is not going to produce the updated cars right away. They are going to update the safety feature in the second half of the year, i.e., from July 2024.Citroen currently has four models in India, i.e., ë-C3, C3 Aircross SUV, C3 and C5 Aircross. The six-airbag system will come with front airbags, side airbags, and curtain airbags, which provide extra protection in the event of a collision. This will provide a safe mobility solution for its customers.Citroen cars will also come with ISOFIX seat anchorage and rear seatbelt reminder as standard fitment. Citroen has recently introduced an automatic transmission option for the C3 Aircross. The compact SUV is powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine that comes with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque-converted automatic.Power output is identical at 109bhp for both versions, but torque output stands at 190 Nm and 205Nm, respectively. Aditya Jairaj, MD & CEO at Stellantis India, recently said that customers are now more evolved to understand safety as an equally important requirement for driving comfort and features. Citroen is trying to continuously evaluate and meet the evolving needs of consumer requirements.This year, Citroen is planning to introduce a crossover with sedan in India. Namely, the C3X which will share its platform with C3 and C3 Aircross. C3X will get an all-electric version, similar to the C3 hatchback. The images of India-spec C3X also surfaced over the internet.
Govt urges RBI to issue FAQs for Paytm users
“The action against Paytm should be followed up by some sort of clarification. RBI has been urged to bring in FAQs as many customers won't be aware of many issues,” an official said. Given the broad customer base of Paytm — India’s biggest fintech that has a wide presence among both individual users and merchants — the government is learnt to have nudged the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to issue a follow-up clarification in the form of frequently asked questions (FAQs). “The action against Paytm should be followed up by some sort of clarification. RBI has been urged to bring in FAQs as many customers won’t be aware of many issues,” an official said. Onboarding of customers without proper verification of know-your-customer (KYC) norms is learnt to have been one of the key issues for prompting the action by the RBI against Paytm last week. The RBI had taken action in the form of imposing penalty against Paytm Payments Bank last year and even then the issue did not get resolved, so the action by the RBI this time around is unlikely to be rolled back, the official said. On Tuesday, Paytm founder and CEO Vijay Shekhar Sharma had met Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and RBI officials, days after the regulator imposed a ban on Paytm Payments Bank (PPBL). On January 31, the RBI barred Paytm Payments Bank from accepting deposits or top-ups in any customer account, prepaid instruments, wallets, FASTags and NCMC card after February 29, 2024, in the wake of persistent non-compliances and material supervisory concerns. The crackdown on PPBL came after a comprehensive system audit report and subsequent compliance validation report of the external auditors, the RBI had said. The RBI had directed that the Nodal Accounts of One97 Communications Ltd (OCL), which owns Paytm, and Paytm Payments Services Ltd are to be terminated at the earliest, in any case not later than February 29, 2024. Paytm Payments Bank has been facing RBI scrutiny since 2018. The RBI’s recent action on PPBL came after it was found that the bank had violated KYC norms and also had linked the same PAN to multiple customers. It was also observed that the bank was allowing transactions above the permissible limit, which raised concerns over money laundering.
Last Day To Update Aadhaar Information
Those who have not yet updated their Aadhaar information have more than a month to do so without incurring any fees; after March 14, 2024, a fee will be applicable for this service. It is recommended to take advantage of the remaining free updating period to avoid additional costs. The free Aadhaar updating service was first extended for three months in December 2023. This deadline has been extended multiple times in the past.This program is consistent with the government's ongoing efforts to streamline administrative processes and provide citizens the tools they need to properly manage their Aadhaar data. Deadline for free Aadhaar updates: March 14, 2024 (This serves as the last extension.) Who is eligible for a free update: Anyone whose Aadhaar details haven't been updated yet What is freely updateable: Name, address, and phone number are examples of demographic information (biometric updates still require visiting an Aadhaar center) Following March 14th, there will be a fee for Aadhaar updates.
The Telangana government will open a youth help desk in the United States and overseas.
Telangana nationals living overseas are becoming increasingly concerned about their safety, thus Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has announced the creation of a special support center. This program is designed to meet the various needs of Telangana students and young professionals who are studying or working overseas.According to Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, the State government will establish a special help desk to cater to the requirements of all young people, particularly students, who are studying overseas. Attack on Indian students: Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy announced that his government would establish a special help desk for all young people living in the USA and other countries, especially students, to ensure that all of their needs are met. This came a day after a student from Hyderabad was attacked and robbed by armed men in Chicago, United States.In response to the recent student deaths in the US earlier this year, the decision was made public.Assistance desk for all young people "Very disturbed to hear of the Chicago robbery that four thieves committed against Hyderabadi student Syed Mazhar Ali. This comes after B. Shreyas Reddy was fatally attacked in Ohio. The Telangana CMO wrote on X, "I humbly ask Hon'ble External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar to kindly convey our concerns over the safety of our students and citizens living there.""To make sure all of the demands of young people residing in the United States and other nations are satisfied, my government will establish a special assistance desk for students. The Congress government is always present for all Telangana residents, no matter where they are in the world, the statement continued.Chicago robbers attack a Hyderabadi student Another story surfaced about armed guys robbing and attacking a man in Hyderabad in Chicago. Syed Mazahir Ali, who traveled to the US to obtain a master's degree at Indiana Wesleyan University, has been identified as the student. In a video, a bloodied Ali describes how the assailants pummeled and kicked him while also stealing his phone. In the CCTV clip, Ali can also be seen trying to escape the attackers as soon as he feels threatened. The graduate student went on to explain in the audio that the attackers kicked and punched him as he staggered close to his home while trying to flee.
Hemant Soren Arrested At Raj Bhavan
Jalpaiguri On Thursday, Governor CP Radhakrishnan refuted claims that Raj Bhavan had anything to do with the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) arrest of former chief minister Hemant Soren in connection with a money laundering case involving a purported land scam. Hemant Soren, the executive president of JMM as well, was taken into custody on January 31 following a seven-hour interrogation by federal agency detectives. A few days later, he claimed that the Centre had hatched a "conspiracy" to get him arrested, and Raj Bhavan had played a key role in it."There is no indication that Raj Bhavan has been misused. We have adhered to every democratic standard with extreme strictness...The former chief minister himself has agreed in his letter that he resigned before being taken to ED custody," he added. I'm never sure who works in the ED. Their faces and names elude me. For a short while, I was with them. "I won't recognize them if you want me to," CP Radhakrishnan said at a press conference held here. It was the CMO who announced that Hemant Soren would be filing for resignation, according to CP Radhakrishnan, not Raj Bhavan. "Our principal secretary received a call from the ED stating that we have taken custody The second message was from the chief secretary, who declared himself to be the prime minister. My principal secretary then clarified that he would remain so until his resignation. Additionally, I was told by the CMO that he would be resigning today. The governor remarked, "I waited for three hours straight." According to CP Radhakrishnan, after that, the chief secretary called his principal secretary and told him that the chief minister couldn't accompany the ED officials alone and that a few senior ministers should be permitted to accompany him. The governor went on, "I told him three of the most senior ministers can accompany him."
Jeff Bezos plans to sell 50 million Amazon shares over next year
The disclosure came through a filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), where Amazon revealed Bezos' trading plan.In a move that has captured market attention, Amazon's founder Jeff Bezos is set to offload a significant portion of his company shares over the next year. Reports from various media outlets indicate Bezos' intention to divest at least 50 million shares of the e-commerce giant. The disclosure came through a filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), where Amazon revealed Bezos' trading plan. As the executive chair of the company, Bezos' move signals a strategic adjustment in his investment portfolio. The plan outlines the potential sale of up to 50 million shares by January 25 of the following year, subject to specific conditions. While Bezos, who recently marked his 60th birthday, retains a vast holding of nearly one billion Amazon shares, this divestment plan represents a substantial reduction in his stake. Additionally, the filing reveals that seven other top executives at Amazon have formulated similar trading plans to sell shares.Bezos' shareholding in Amazon is a cornerstone of his considerable personal wealth, currently estimated at $193.3 billion. The planned divestment underscores a deliberate repositioning of assets by one of the world's wealthiest individuals. Amazon's financial performance remains robust, with impressive figures reported for the holiday quarter ending December 31, 2023. The company saw a 14% increase in net sales, reaching $170 billion compared to $149.2 billion in the same period of the previous year. Net income also surged to $10.6 billion in Q4 2023, compared to $0.3 billion in Q4 2022. Notably, the Amazon Web Services (AWS) segment reported a 13% year-over-year increase in sales, totaling $24.2 billion. CEO Andy Jassy commented on the exceptional performance, describing the holiday season as "record-breaking." Jassy expressed optimism for the company's trajectory in 2024, highlighting ongoing efforts and forthcoming opportunities.As Bezos prepares to execute his share sale plan, the market will closely monitor its impact on both Amazon's stock value and Bezos' personal financial landscape.
When SRK-Salman Fight Was Put Out by Former Congress Leader Baba Siddique
After almost 50 years of affiliation with the Congress, former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique announced his resignation today. Veteran of the Maharashtra political scene, Mr. Siddique held ministerial positions during the administrations of both the Congress and the NCP coalition led by Sharad Pawar. In addition to his cross-party political connections, Mr. Siddique is well-known for throwing extravagant parties. During one such gathering in 2013, Mr. Siddique unintentionally helped bring Bollywood superstars Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan together.Over the years, the two actors have remained close despite their publicized arguments and sporadic clashes. Their five-year cold war came to an end in 2013 at Baba Siddique's Iftaar party, marking a pivotal point in their relationship. The highly anticipated reunion between the Khans took place against the backdrop of Mr. Siddique's Iftaar party. After an intense argument at Katrina Kaif's birthday party in 2008, Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan avoided each other until they finally met. They gave each other a warm greeting and a sincere hug, which instantly relieved the tension that had been hanging over their relationship. That moment was captured in a picture that quickly went viral on social media and news outlets. After an incredible 48 years, Mr. Siddique announced his resignation from the Congress in a social media post today. "It has been a noteworthy 48-year journey for me to become a member of the Indian National Congress party when I was a young teenager. With immediate effect, I am leaving the Indian National Congress Party @INCIndia as of today. I would have liked to say a lot, but sometimes it's better to keep things quiet. I express my gratitude to everyone who has shared in this journey," he wrote.
Chandigarh Mayor Polls Postponed Until February 6 Amid BJP-AAP Conflict
"Chandigarh's mayoral elections, which were postponed earlier today amidst much controversy, will now take place on February 6, according to the Union Territory's Deputy Commissioner. A statement from the Commissioner's office stated, ""This decision follows a thorough assessment of the security and law and order situation by the Senior Superintendent of Police, UT, Chandigarh.""""As the Prescribed Authority for this important meeting, Shri Anil Masih, a councilor, has been nominated by Vinay Pratap Singh, Deputy Commissioner, Chandigarh. The statement stated that the meeting to elect the mayor will be chaired by Councilor Sh. Anil Masih and will follow the prescribed rules and procedures.The presiding officer became ill, so the election that the Aam Aadmi Party and the Congress had partnered for was postponed. The AAP and the Congress both claimed that the BJP had scuttled it because they expected to lose.He went on to say, "BJP is like a disgruntled child who takes away the bat and declares an end to the game when they are called out in gully cricket." He questioned why elections had to be postponed if the BJP was losing.The Congress is running for the deputy mayor and senior deputy mayor positions, and the AAP is running for mayor. The parties asserted that because of their combined strength, the BJP had yielded and they were the first party in the Opposition INDIA grouping. "
Gupta Rajendra Prasad Selected as the New Advocate General of Rajasthan
Governor Kalraj Mishra approved the appointment of Senior Advocate Rajendra Prasad Gupta as the new Advocate General of Rajasthan. As the replacement for the outgoing governor in December, this appointment represents a major shift in the legal leadership of the state. As MS Singhvi's replacement, Rajendra Prasad Gupta begins a new chapter in his tenure as Rajasthan's 19th Advocate General. Visit https://www.bankersadda.com/current-affairs-6-february-2024 for more informatiom.Legislative Authority and Obligations The Advocate General may attend State Legislature sessions and contribute to the legislative process without having a vote, as per Article 177 of the Constitution. Because of his special position, the Advocate General can provide legal insights into legislative discussions, improving the quality and ensuring that the legislative framework complies with legal requirements. Crucial Exam Questions Who has been named Rajasthan's new Advocate General? When was the office of Advocate General of Rajasthan established, and who was the first person to hold it? What is the main constitutional authority that appoints the Advocate General, and what are their duties? What special privilege does the Advocate General have in the legislative process, as per Article 177 of the Constitution?
What Made Jaya Bachchan Lose Her Composure in Parliament? "We e Not Schoolchildren
Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan responded sharply to Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar's comment about a Congress leader during an outcry by opposition members over the omission of a question, stating that the members are "not schoolchildren" and would have understood if the matter had been explained to them. She added that respect should be shown for the MPs. During Tuesday's Question Hour, Deputy Chairman Harivansh of the Rajya Sabha was questioned by Ms Bachchan, Congressman Deepender Singh Hooda, and other opposition members about why a question on aviation had been skipped. Vice President and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Jagdeep Dhankhar, asked the opposition members to take their seats amid the commotion and announced he would come back to the question. "You are not her (Ms. Bachchan's) spokesperson," Mr. Dhankhar remarked as Mr. Hooda persisted in his protest. She is one of the more senior members. She is a very senior member, so you don't need to help her." In an attempt to diffuse the tension a bit later, Mr. Dhankhar stated he had mentioned that the answer to question number 18, which had been overlooked, would be addressed following the completion of the response to question number 19. It will be addressed calmly and an attempt will be made to find a solution. Since Jaya Bachchan ji is a very senior member, she can be trusted to take her feelings seriously when they come to me ", she remarked. The chairman cut Ms. Bachchan off mid-sentence, saying, "Jaya Bachchan ji, you are a very senior member. I would like to make a request. Anything you say is respected in the nation, even if it isn't otherwise. You will lift our spirits all together, and I have no doubt that a talented actor such as yourself had to retake a lot of scenes. Ms. Bachchan stepped in to say that she should be given the opportunity to speak and emphasized how much she respects the deputy chairman.
Finance Secretary: "No Conscious Discrimination" Regarding the Center-States Funds Row
According to TV Somanathan, the finance secretary, financial allocations to states—whether through tax devolution or money from federally sponsored welfare programs—are determined by consistent rules that prohibit discrimination. She made this statement in an exclusive interview with NDTV. The remarks made by Mr. Somanathan coincide with a day after a heated argument between Congress MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman over claims that non-BJP states are "deprived of (financial) dues.""In the operation of the Finance Ministry as regards funding to states, we go by formulae that have been laid down by the Finance Commission... we have not discriminated, for or against, any state government," Mr. Somanathan explained today, emphasizing what the Finance Minister had stated.There doesn't seem to be any intentional discrimination, but I won't get into the political aspects." He stated that the distribution of GST, or the sharing of tax revenue, is based on percentages established by the Finance Commission and examined by the Comptroller and Auditor General. Bengal and Punjab, among other states, have regularly claimed withholding dues. This issue has been contentious for years. He emphasized that these were immutable and that funds were disbursed in accordance with the guidelines; yesterday, Ms. Sitharaman reiterated this and added that she was unable to modify them "as per my whims". According to Mr. Somanathan, the distribution of funds for the center's sponsored schemes is also based on predetermined percentages: 60-40 for "mainstream" states and 90-10 for northeastern or hill states. We disburse money in percentages, so long as the prior installment was used, the funds will be disbursed. Thus, I can state unequivocally that the Finance Ministry is nondiscriminatory. I am unable to comment on the complaints that some states may have regarding the Finance Commission's percentages.However, we have followed the Finance Commission's recommendations exactly," Mr. Somanathan stated. In response to a query regarding the conflict between the center and the ruling Trinamool Congress of Bengal—wherein Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee staged a protest event last week to demand the state's "dues"—the Finance Secretary informed NDTV that the Prime Minister's Office had emphasized that Bengal receive its fair share.
The Centers interim budget reduces money for education and UGC by 61%.
India's interim budget for education has been cut by 7%, with a 61% reduction in funding for the UGC.In contrast to the revised projection amount for 2023–24, the interim budget announced on Thursday allotted ₹1.2 lakh crore for education, a decline of approximately 7%. However, the University Grants Commission (UGC) had its funding cut by 61%, the biggest reduction in at least five years.The Union government has allocated ₹73,008.10 crore for schools out of the total outlay, a slight rise of 0.73% from the revised estimate for 2023–2024, according to the budget paper. Higher education has been allocated ₹47,619.77 crore, a severe decrease of ₹9,600 crore (16.8%).The Union Ministry of Education, however, asserted that a 19.5% increase in the budget for school education was necessary because the finance ministry's budget paper did not match the overall updated estimate."It now includes the updated figures that were previously referenced in the budget document. But it ought to be computed without it, according to a senior government official.At the time this report was submitted, the budget paper had not been altered.Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized during her budget speech that the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 will be used by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government to transform education. She also stated that the focus will be on empowering the "Amrit Peedhi," or the generation that will grow during Amrit Kaal, or the 25 years leading up to 2047.The youth's proper empowerment and education are essential to our prosperity. Revolutionary changes are being ushered in by the National Education Policy 2020. In a 58-minute lecture, she stated, "PM Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI) are delivering quality teaching and nurturing holistic and well-rounded individuals."Funding for UGC was, however, drastically reduced. A revised estimate of ₹6,409 crore in 2023–24 was the amount allotted; this was reduced to ₹2,500 crore in 2024–25.Concerns were expressed by experts about the UGC budget cut. Assistant professor Rajesh Jha of Delhi University stated, "Grants was eliminated and reduced to a mere regulatory agency due to the drastic cut in UGC funding." Universities will be further encouraged to launch more self-financed courses as a result, adding to the load already placed on students. Additionally, it will increase institutions' reliance on HEFA (Higher Education Financing Agency) loans.The reduction has occurred at a time when institutions are planning to introduce four-year programs and would require extra funding to accommodate more students at a time, according to Abha Dev Habib, an associate professor of mathematics at Miranda House College of Delhi University. What will the universities do? She said, "The government ought to take this into account. In a statement, UGC Chairperson M Jagadesh Kumar stated that the commission is still dedicated to upholding its primary responsibility of promoting high-quality higher education. "It will persist in collaborating with all relevant parties to guarantee the effective utilization of allotted finances." He expressed confidence that the allocation of resources strategically and the transformative vision of NEP 2020 will result in the establishment of a learner-centric higher education system in India.
Women Personnel Being Appointed As Onboard Warships: Centre In Lok Sabha
New Delhi: Women personnel are being appointed onboard warships and also as special naval air operation officers in the Indian Navy, the government said in Lok Sabha on Friday.Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt said permanent commission is being granted to women officers in 12 arms and services of the Army in addition to the medical and dental corps as well as military nursing service.He was replying to a question on the strength of women in the armed forces.Bhatt said the experimental scheme to induct women officers in all combat roles initiated by the Indian Air Force in 2015 was regularised in 2022 into a permanent one."Women officers are being appointed onboard warships in afloat billets and also as Special Naval Air Operation (NAO) officers in the Indian Navy," he said without elaborating. On various measures to boost India's defence manufacturing, he said a 'green channel policy' for procurement of military stores and spares has been launched for awarding 'green channel' status to firms having predefined financial and quality credentials.Bhatt was highlighting various action plans that the government has rolled out to strengthen the country's defence ecosystem."A green channel policy for procurement of defence stores and spares has been launched for awarding green channel status to firms having predefined financial and quality credentials," he said."Grant of green channel certificate provides waiver of pre-dispatch inspection and acceptance of stores under supplier's guarantee/warranty against the contracts concluded by various procurement agencies under the Ministry of Defence," he said. The minister said two defence industrial corridors -- one in Uttar Pradesh and another in Tamil Nadu -- have been set up to attract investment for defence industries and develop domestic supply chains.He said a defence testing infrastructure scheme has been launched to boost domestic defence and aerospace manufacturing with primary aim to set up greenfield defence testing infrastructure as a common test facility The minister also noted that the defence public sector undertakings are having tie-ups with various centres of excellence and academic institutes like IITs and IIMs for various developmental projects.
"Please Go Away," Mani Shankar Aiyars Daughter Was Told Following Ram Temple Post
A notice to vacate their Jangpura, Delhi, home was sent to Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar and his daughter Suranya Aiyar due to a social media post they made criticizing the Ayodhya Ram Temple consecration ceremony on January 22. The notice, which was sent by the Resident's Welfare Association (RWA), begs them to refrain from going on rants that might upset other residents' religious sentiments or disturb the peace. "We do not appreciate a resident rant which may disturb the peace in the colony or hurt religious sentiments of the residents," the notice stated. "In case you think what you have done in protesting against the consecration of Ram mandir at Ayodhya, we would suggest you to kindly move out to another colony where people can turn blind eye to such hatred," it continued. On January 20, Suranya Aiyar wrote on Facebook that she was fasting in opposition to the Ram Mandir's "Pran Pratishtha" ceremony. According to her, the fast is a way for Muslims to show their love and grief for one another. In its reply, RWA stated, "What Ms Aiyar said through social media was unbecoming of an educated person, who should have understood that the Ram Mandir was being built after 500 years and that too after 5-0 Supreme Court verdict." You may use the pretext of "freedom of speech," but keep in mind that the Supreme Court of India has ruled that this protection is not unqualified." It is requested that Mr. Aiyar either reject his daughter's post or vacate the residence. The group pleaded with the Aiyars not to incite animosity and mistrust among the populace. "You may engage in any political activity for the benefit of your nation, but keep in mind that your words and deeds matter and can either enhance or diminish the colony's reputation. Consequently, we kindly ask that you abstain from making such posts or comments," the notification stated.
Arvind Kejriwal Ignores Fifth Summons, Alleges AAP Arresting Them
Arvind Kejriwal, the chief minister of Delhi, announced today that he will not be appearing for questioning in the Delhi liquor policy case. Kejriwal had been called for the fifth time by the Enforcement Directorate. He was summoned to the investigation agency's Delhi headquarters today to appear before it. This comes after Arvind Kejriwal declined to be questioned on January 19, claiming that the ED's summons was unlawful and that its sole purpose was to arrest him. The leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Mr. Kejriwal, had previously declined to come before the investigation team on three separate summonses for November 2, December 21, and January 3.The agency's actions have been denounced by the AAP as "unlawful" and "politically motivated". The agency's actions have been denounced by the AAP as "unlawful" and "politically motivated". Arvind Kejriwal's arrest is part of PM Modi's plan to overthrow the Delhi government. We refuse to let this occur," the party declared in a statement. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had questioned the AAP chief in April regarding the case, but the organization had not yet accused him.There has been a great deal of conjecture that the Enforcement Directorate would arrest the chief minister of Delhi following his interrogation ever since the agency sent out its first summons. With Manish Sisodia, Sanjay Singh, and Satyendra Jain, three of its leaders, incarcerated, the AAP has long been prepared for this possibility and has deliberated over potential next steps. They even want Mr. Kejriwal to continue serving as Chief Minister while incarcerated.According to the CBI, liquor companies were involved in the formulation of the excise policy, which would have resulted in a profit margin of 12%. It called the liquor lobby the "South Group" because it had paid kickbacks, some of which went to government employees. The kickbacks were purportedly laundered by the Enforcement Directorate. The AAP allegedly used the money from the purported scam to finance its extensive campaign in Gujarat, where it garnered 12.91 percent of the vote and made a name for itself as a national party, according to the BJP.
‘Bandh Karo’ slogan raised as IndiGo cancels Delhi to Deoghar flight. Watch
After IndiGo canceled a Delhi-Deoghar flight owing to bad weather, a number of enraged customers rallied inside the Delhi airport and chanted anti-airline slogans. The event took place on January 30. Travellers protested the airline’s decision to cancel a flight by congregating in front of the boarding gates in front of security guards.“Indigo flight 6E 2198 from Delhi to Deogarh was cancelled on Jan 30 and Jan 31, 2024 due to sudden drop in weather conditions around the airport in Deogarh. Passengers were served with refreshments and options to avail a full refund, alternate sectors or rescheduling,” stated the airline. “We regret the inconvenience caused due to factors beyond the airline’s control,” further mentioned the statement. “Why only Indigo has weather issues? As expected,” furiously commented users on the viral post. This is not the first instance; the airline has been under fire lately for poor customer service. On January 13, due to severe weather in Guwahati, IndiGo flight 5319 from Mumbai to Guwahati was rerouted to Dhaka, Bangladesh and an alternative crew was scheduled to handle the Dhaka – Guwahati flight due to operational considerations.Meanwhile, because of the heavy fog and poor visibility at the Delhi airport on January 30, Indigo airline had to cancel and postpone a number of flights. Indigo advised a notice on X (previously Twitter) that sated, “Due to forecasted bad weather, flight operations in Delhi, Srinagar and Chandigarh are likely to be impacted. Please keep a check on your flight status before leaving for the airport.”
Sitharaman announces slew of measures to propel India’s ‘nari-shakti’
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday announced that the Modi government would be increasing the target of women beneficiaries under its Lakhpati Didi Scheme to three crore women from two crore."83 lakh Self Help Groups with nine crore women are transforming the rural socioeconomic landscape, and have assisted nearly one crore women in becoming lakhpati didis already," Sitharaman said while presenting the interim Budget for the next fiscal year starting April 1, 2024."Female enrolment in higher education is up by 28% in 10 years, in STEM courses, girls and women make up 43% of enrolment, one of the highest in the world. All these steps are reflected in the increasing participation of women in the workforce. Making triple talaq illegal, reservation of 1/3 seats for women in Parliament and state assemblies, over 70 % houses under PM Awas Yojana to women have increased their dignity," the Finance Minister said."I applaud the ease of securing a 34 crore loan for entrepreneurs. The 43% women enrollment in STEM courses and Allocating 1/3 seats in government reflects a commitment to equal representation. Women setting up their businesses will lead to job creation for the same gender and recent studies have shown that empowering women economically leads to increased GDP and poverty reduction, benefiting families and communities. Overcoming various challenges and barriers as a woman entrepreneur in India is not an easy feat and with encouragement from the government, this will provide a boost, especially to those from economically weaker backgrounds. Increased women entrepreneurship is also a step towards global collaborations and will provide India with an additional platform to expand networks and access global markets," said Pallavi Singh Marwah, senior VP of SPPL.“Our government will encourage vaccination for girls in the age group of 9 to 14 years for providing prevention of cervical cancer,” she said.In the previous budget, Sitharaman emphasised on the economic empowerment of women, envisioning the transformation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) into viable income-generating producer organizations and sustainable women enterprises. The budget announced help with supply of raw materials and for better design, quality, branding and marketing of their products, to enable them scale up their operations to serve the large consumer markets, as has been the case with several start-ups growing into unicor.
FM Nirmala Sithraman keeps tax slabs unchanged
As expected and in relief for the citizens, the central government neither tweaked nor put any additional tax burden on citizens, in the interim Budget for 2024-25 tabled by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. "Keeping with the convention, I do not propose to make any changes relating to taxation and propose to retain the same tax rates for direct taxes and indirect taxes including import duties," Sitharaman said in her Budget speech on Thursday. However, certain tax benefits to start-ups and investments made by sovereign wealth or pension funds as well as tax exemption on certain income of some IFSC units are expiring in March 2024. To provide continuity in taxation, she proposed to extend the date by another year.Moreover, in line with the government's vision to improve ease of living and ease of doing business, she announced to improve tax-payer services. "There are a large number of petty, non-verified, non-reconciled or disputed direct tax demands, many of them dating as far back as the year 1962, which continue to remain on the books, causing anxiety to honest tax-payers and hindering refunds of subsequent years," she said.She proposed to withdraw such outstanding direct tax demands up to Rs 25,000 for the period up to financial year 2009-10 and up to Rs 10,000 for financial years 2010-11 to 2014-15. "This is expected to benefit about a crore tax-payers," she added.Presenting the Union Budget 2023, Sitharaman on Thursday pegged the fiscal deficit target for 2024-25 at 5.1% of gross domestic product (GDP). In 2023-24, the government pegged the fiscal deficit target for 2023-24 at 5.9% of gross domestic product (GDP). Today, Sitharaman said that the fiscal deficit of 2023-24 was downwardly revised to 5.8%. The difference between total revenue and total expenditure of the government is termed as fiscal deficit. It is an indication of the total borrowings that may be needed by the government.The government intends to bring the fiscal deficit below 4.5% of GDP by the financial year 2025-26.The government intends to bring the fiscal deficit below 4.5% of GDP by the financial year 2025-26. A capital expenditure,or capex, is used to set up long-term physical or fixed assets.
