Airlines May Consider Canceling Flights In Advance: DGCA Issues SOP Amid Fog-Induced Delays

In response to the increasing number of flight delays and cancellations due to fog-related disruptions at airports, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) onMonday issued a set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) on Monday. The aviation watchdog has instructed airlines to provide accurate real-time information regarding delays and enhance the sensitization of staff at airports to communicate effectively with passengers, news agency PTI reported. The DGCA emphasised the importance of airlines publishing timely information about flight delays and ensuring that staff at airports continuously guide and inform passengers facing disruptions. The SOPs also recommend that, in anticipation of significant delays due to prevalent fog season and adverse weather conditions, airlines may consider canceling flights in advance to prevent airport congestion and alleviate passenger inconvenience, PTI's report mentioned.These Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) were issued by the regulator late Monday evening. Earlier in the day, following massive delays and chaos at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, the government had directed the airport to expedite the operationalisation of a CAT-III-compliant runway that has been closed for repair since September last year. While appealing to travellers “to bear with us during this difficult period”, Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia Monday in a post on X added that the DGCA will be issuing a standard operating procedure (SOP) for airlines on better communication and facilitation of passengers “to minimise discomfort in view of flight cancellations & delays due to adverse weather”. In the SOP sent to all airlines, the DGCA said, “in view of the fog-induced disruptions and adverse weather conditions at various airports including Delhi Airport causing delays, cancellations and inconvenience to passengers, the…Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are mandated in public interest”.Airlines, it said, will be required to publish accurate real-time information regarding delays of their flights on their websites as well as give advance information to affected passengers by SMS/WhatsApp and email. “Appropriate sensitization of the airline staff at the airports to suitably communicate with and continuously guide and inform the passengers about flight delays,” it said.It added that airlines may also cancel such flights that are anticipated to be delayed for more than hours. “…airlines may cancel, sufficiently in advance, such flights that are anticipated to be delayed or consequentially delayed on account of such conditions beyond a period of 3 hours with a view to obviate congestion at the airport and mitigate passenger inconvenience. ”“All airlines shall mandatorily adhere to the above SOP with immediate effect,” it said.Meanwhile, in his post, Scindia had said that all stakeholders are trying their best to minimise passenger inconvenience. “Incidences of unruly behaviour amidst this are unacceptable, and will be dealt with strongly in line with the existing legal provision  

Govt Pulls Up Indigo, Mumbai Airport After Viral Video Shows Fliers Eating On Tarmac

After a video of passengers eating on the tarmac at Mumbai Airport went viral on social media, the Union Minister of Civil Aviation Jyotiraditya Scindia held a meeting with all ministry officials at midnight yesterday. In the early hours on Tuesday, MoCA's Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) issued show cause notices to Indigo and Mumbai Airport.According to the notices, “both Indigo and MIAL were not proactive in anticipating the situation and making the appropriate facilitation arrangements for passengers at the airport”. For instance, “the aircraft was allotted a remote bay C-33 (instead of a Contact Stand - an aircraft parking stand that is suitable for walking passengers to and from an aircraft from an allocated boarding gate), which further added to passenger woes and deprived them the opportunity to avail basic facilities like rest rooms and refreshments at the terminal”.Delayed flights, dense fog and hassled passengers have been grabbing headlines for the past few days in India. And through all this chaos, budget airlines IndiGo has been thrown into the limelight. The domestic carrier is facing flak over several flight disruptions owing to intense fog in Delhi and other places in northern India and its handling of passengers.Now, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has issued a show-cause notice to IndiGo Airlines and Mumbai Airport after a video of passengers eating food on the tarmac spread online on Monday (15 January). The passengers of a Goa-Delhi flight that was diverted to Mumbai owing to poor visibility in the National Capital on Sunday (14 January) were seen dining on the apron upon disembarking. In the video that went viral on social media, flyers can be seen seated on the tarmac and eating food next to the parked IndiGo aircraft. The incident sparked safety concerns as the apron is designated for aircraft activities. The ground staff connected the aircraft with the stepladder and the passengers were asked to deboard. As the angry flyers disembarked, they refused to enter the terminal building of the Mumbai airport, HT reported.Many disgruntled passengers demanded the flight be taken directly to Delhi. Videos showed some flyers with their food packets, eating on the apron.An airline official told HT that Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel had to be called to remove them from the tarmac and take them to a safety zone.The flight finally took off for Delhi at 2.39 am on Monday. IndiGo said it was aware of the incident and apologised to the customers, saying it was “currently looking into the incident”.According to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, the passengers were “irate” due to the flight delay in Goa and left the aircraft as soon as it landed in Mumbai.    

Ayodhya: Massive crowd throngs Ram temple as mandir opens its doors for devotees after ‘pran pratishtha’

Devotees gathered in large numbers since 3am to have darshan of the new Ram Lalla idol on the first morning after the consecration ceremony. A massive crowd thronged the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya as the grand temple opened its doors for devotees to offer prayers on Tuesday morning, a day after the 'pran pratishtha' ceremony of Ram Lalla. Devotees gathered in large numbers since 3am to have darshan (viewing) of the new Ram Lalla idol on the first morning after the consecration ceremony, news agency ANI reported. A large number of devotees, both locals and visitors from other states, gathered near the main gateway along the Ram Path leading to the temple complex late on Monday, seeking entry to the mandir premises. As a large crowd built up near the ceremonial gateway – decked up for the consecration ceremony – police told the devotees that the temple would open to the public from Tuesday.For devotees seeking darshan of Lord Ram Lalla, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra website has provided specific time slots – morning slot from 7am to 11:30am and afternoon slot from 2 pm to 7pm.‘Aarti’ timings include jagran/shringar at 6:30am and sandhya aarti at 7:30pm. One can obtain passes for the 'aarti' both offline and online. The offline passes are available at the camp office at Shri Ram Janmbhoomi, requiring a valid government identity proof. The 'pran pratishtha' of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya was held amid unbridled celebrations, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi performing the main rituals officiated by a select complement of priests. The 'pran pratishtha' ceremony of Lord Ram was held at 12.29pm on Monday. The ceremonial journey leading up to the mega event included a seven-day ritual that commenced on January 16.The ceremony was attended by people from all walks of life, including representatives of various tribal communities. Major spiritual and religious sect leader were also invited to the consecration ceremony. Built-in the traditional Nagara style, Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir has a length (east-west) of 380 feet and a width of 250 feet. It stands 161 feet above the ground and is supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors. The pillars and walls of the temple showcase intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, Gods, and Goddesses. We are very pleased. Ayodhya has decked up like a bride. We are touched even more to come to terms with the fact that we are going to have 'darshan' of the Ram Lalla," ANI quoted Tejender Singh, a devotee from Chandigarh, as saying.Another devotee said he came all the way from Odisha for the darshan of Lord Ram in Ayodhya."I have come from Odisha's Puri to Ayodhya on bike to have darshan of Lord Ram Lalla. It was a journey of 1224 kilometres. I was very eager to have 'darshan' of Lord Ram Lalla. When I was asked on my way where I was going, I said that that I was going to have darshan of Lord Ram at the temple which was not built for over 500 years," he told ANIIn the sanctum sanctorum of Ram Mandir, the child-like Lord Ram is enthroned.  

‘January 22 will be etched in our memories’: PM Modi after inaugurating Ram Mandir in Ayodhya

Speaking on the Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that it will be etched in our memories for years to come. In a post on X, Modi wrote, “What we saw in Ayodhya yesterday, 22nd January, will be etched in our memories for years to come."Earlier on Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the ceremony, unveiling the Ram Lalla idol during the hour-long rituals.  During his address to the dignitaries at the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, Prime Minister Modi emphasized that the unveiling of the Ram Lalla idol signifies not only a moment of victory following a protracted struggle but also one of humility. This is not just a moment of celebration for us all but also one to reflect the coming of age of the Indian society. This occasion is as much about triumph as it is about humility. The world is replete with instances of countries that faced a lot of difficulties resolving historic wrongs and injustices. However, the way we untied the knots and resolved all outstanding issues gives us hope that our future is going to be more beautiful and fulfilling than our past," PM Modi said. The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir, constructed in the traditional Nagara style, boasts dimensions of 380 feet in length (east-west), 250 feet in width, and 161 feet in height. It is supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors. The pillars and walls of the temple are adorned with intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, Gods, and Goddesses. Within the main sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor, the idol of Shri Ramlalla, representing the childhood form of Bhagwan Shri Ram, has been reverently placed. As the whole nation is celebrating the Pran Pratishtha ceremony held at Ram temple in Ayodhya, several politicians, leaders, and celebrities extended their wishes to the people. Referring to the consecration ceremony, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma said, “500 years of slavery have ended today. India has shown that anything is possible in this country. I have full faith that Ram Rajya has begun now." He also showered praises for PM Modi. However, on being asked about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's remarks in the Nagaon attacks, Himanta Biswa Sarma sidelined the question by referring to the Wayanad MP as ‘Ravan’.  

Here’s A Detailed Look At 2024 Kia Sonet Facelift Mid-spec HTX Variant In 8 Images

Kia has just refreshed its popular subcompact SUV, the Sonet, with an updated design, refreshed interior, and new features. And if you are eyeing the 2024 Sonet with automatic transmission, the HTX variant serves as an entry-level option for it. Take a look at what the HTX variant has to offer. From the front, the HTX variant resembles the  HTK+ variant (that sits right below it), featuring an updated grille with chrome surrounds. However, with the HTX variant you get LED headlights (halogen headlights in HTK+ variant) with LED DRLs and LED fog lamps. The lower section showcases a silver skid plate, providing a contrasting look. It is equipped with 16-inch steel wheels that are designed to mimic the look of an alloy rim. Moving onto the rear, the HTX variant is equipped with connected LED taillights, and the bumper gets a similar design treatment to the front with a silver skid plate. Stepping inside, the first thing you will notice is the dual-tone black and tan brown leatherette upholstery for the seats. The cabin features all-black dashboard with silver inserts on the AC vents and door handles that add a dash of contrast. Adding to the premium feel are the leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob.It's worth noting that opting for the turbo petrol with clutchless manual transmission or diesel with manual transmission gives you a lighter beige tone to the upholstery. Additionally, the rear seats offer a 60:40 split for added flexibility, and rear passengers benefit from adjustable headrests, and a rear centre armrest with cup holders.With the HTX variant, you get front ventilated seats (limited to the 1-litre turbo with 7-speed DCT and 1.5-litre diesel with 6-speed AT and iMT variants). Apart from this, it comes equipped with a 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, a 4.2-inch semi digital driver’s display, sunroof, Type-C charging ports, electrically foldable ORVMs, drive modes, paddle shifters in automatic transmission variants, and a 6-speaker sound system. Safety features include six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, a tyre pressure monitoring system, hill-start assist, rear disc brakes, ISOFIX mounts for child seats, rear parking camera, front and rear parking sensors as well as seat belt reminders for all passengers.    

Mid-spec Tata Punch EV vs Top-end Tata Tiago EV: Cross-shopping Simplified

Tata Motors recently launched the Punch EV, introducing a new electric micro-SUV in our market. It sports a refreshed look and is based on a completely new electric car-only platform. The Punch EV joins Tata's lineup of electric vehicles, including the Tiago EV. If you are considering both the Punch EV and Tiago EV, we have simplified your decision-making process with a detailed comparison. Check it out. The mid-spec Punch EV Standard Range marginally undercuts the top-spec Tiago EV Long Range. It's important to note that, we are considering the Tiago EV configured with a 7.2 kW AC fast charger, which comes at a premium of Rs 50,000. Both the vehicles come standard with 3.3 kW AC charger. Considering the segment, the Punch EV is undoubtedly a larger vehicle than the Tiago EV, offering more space and a larger boot. It also has a longer wheelbase and that should result in more room inside the cabin.  Things change in the features department, with no significant difference between the two cars. In fact, the Tiago EV offers additional features such as rain-sensing wipers, a larger 8-speaker sound system, and a tyre pressure monitoring system. On the other hand, the Punch EV rides on larger 15-inch wheels and comes equipped with 6 airbags. As seen in the table above, there is barely any difference between the two cars in terms of powertrain specifications. However, the Punch EV's electric motor produces slightly more power. In terms of claimed range, both deliver a similar range. Do note that you get a second powertrain choice with both cars: Medium Range in the Tiago EV and Long Range in the Punch EV.  Ultimately, your decision will depend on whether to choose a larger micro-SUV or a hatchback with a smaller form factor, as both cars more or less offer a similar features set and power figures. Keeping the size factor aside, choosing the Punch EV means opting for a more modern product with an updated design. If you can configure it to higher-spec variants, you also get additional niceties like ventilated seats, and a larger infotainment and digital driver’s display. You also get the novelty factor of an SUVThe Tiago EV, on the other hand, is based on its petrol-powered counterpart, maintains the same design and feel, which might feel dated when compared to the Punch EV. Nevertheless, it does offer some additional conventional features if aesthetics are overlooked. That said, the new Punch EV is definitely the more modern product here and is our pick.

India overtakes Hong Kong as worlds fourth-largest stock market

India's stock market capitalization crossed $4 trillion for the first time on December 5, with about half of that coming in the past four years. India’s stock market has pipped Hong Kong for the first time. The combined value of shares listed on Indian exchanges hit $4.33 trillion as of Monday’s close, against $4.29 trillion for Hong Kong, according to data compiled by Bloomberg, making India the fourth-biggest equity market globally.   Its stock market capitalization crossed $4 trillion for the first time on December 5, with about half of that coming in the past four years.  India has all the right ingredients in place to set the growth momentum further,” Ashish Gupta, chief investment officer at Axis Mutual Fund in Mumbai, told Bloomberg. Hong Kong's slump is also due to an eroding China appeal. Some of China’s most influential and innovative firms are listed in Hong Kong. Beijing’s stringent anti-Covid-19 curbs, regulatory crackdowns on corporations, a property-sector crisis and geopolitical tensions with the West have hit Chinese stocks hard. The total market value of Chinese and Hong Kong stocks have tumbled by more than $6 trillion since their peaks in 2021.   New listings have dried up in Hong Kong, with the Asian financial hub losing its status as one of the world’s busiest venues for initial public offerings. Overseas funds poured more than $21 billion into Indian shares in 2023, helping the country’s benchmark S&P BSE Sensex Index cap an eighth consecutive year of gains.“There is a clear consensus that India is the best long-term investment opportunity,” Goldman Sachs Group Inc. strategists including Guillaume Jaisson and Peter Oppenheimer wrote in a note Jan. 16 with results of a survey from the firm’s Global Strategy Conference.    

Tech layoffs: Tencents Riot Games to lay off 11% employees

Riot Games, based in Los Angeles, is known for popular games like 'League of Legends'. The company stated that teams not directly involved in game development will be most affected by the layoffs.Riot Games, a subsidiary of Tencent Holdings, announced on Monday that it plans to lay off 530 employees, which is about 11% of its global staff. The news was shared in a blog post that included a letter from CEO Dylan Jadeja to the employees.Riot Games, based in Los Angeles, is known for popular games like "League of Legends". The company stated that teams not directly involved in game development will be most affected by the layoffs.  The digital gaming industry is facing challenges as audiences are hesitating to buy expensive titles or are sticking to fewer games due to high inflation. This trend was also seen last year when Electronic Arts Inc cut 6% of its staff and reduced office space. In his letter, Jadeja explained, "We're a company without a sharp enough focus, and we have too many things underway. Some of the significant investments we've made aren't paying off the way we expected them to. Our costs have grown to the point where they're unsustainable."The layoffs will allow Riot to concentrate on its live games portfolio, which includes "League of Legends", "Valorant", "Teamfight Tactics", and "Wild Rift". This was mentioned in a separate blog post by Jadeja and co-founder Marc Merrill.Riot will halt new game development under "Riot Forge" and will reduce some staff and features in "Legends of Runeterra".Tencent, which bought a majority stake in Riot Games in 2011, also has a stake in U.S. video game developer Epic Games.

Tata Motors zooms to 52-week high on plans to hike vehicle prices

Shares of Tata Motors Limited traded over a percent higher at Rs 827 to hit a fresh 52-week high on January 23 after the company announced that it will raise the prices by 0.7 percent across its passenger vehicles portfolio, including electric vehicles, with effect from February 1. The automobile major said the main reason behind the hike is escalating input costs. Despite the announcement, specific revised prices for each car have not been disclosed by the company. At 9:26am, the stock was trading at Rs 825, up 0.7 percent from the previous close on the NSE. In the last year, the counter has had a stellar rally, gaining over 100 percent on the bourses. It was also the best performer on the Nifty in 2023. The hike isn't just restricted to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, but also EVs where Tata Motors is the market leader. This comes after the company launched the new Tata Punch EV, its recent addition to the electric SUV segment. Before its launch, Tata had Nexon EV, Tigor EV, and Tiago EV. The development gains significance as Tata Motors isn't the first company to hike prices in 2024. Last week, Maruti Suzuki announced a 0.45 percent price increase for its models. The company’s diverse range of vehicles, from the entry-level hatchback Alto to the sports utility vehicle Jimny and the multi-utility vehicle Invicto.   

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Traffic Advisory For Bharat Parv, To Be Held From January 23 To January 31: Delhi Police

New Delhi: Bharat Parv, which is set to take place at Red Fort from January 23 to January 31, 2024, was the subject of a traffic advisory issued by the Delhi Police on Monday. The announcement stated that Madhav Das Park and 15 August Park would host food courts and craft stalls for the general public. As in previous years, it said that this edition of Bharat Parv will feature the Republic Day tableaus, Armed Forces bands, state/Union Territory troupes and zonal cultural centers performing, a pan-India food court and crafts bazaar, state and central government pavilions, and more.The general public is welcome to attend Bharat Parv's inaugural event on Tuesday through January 31. It is anticipated that the event will draw a sizable crowd on all days from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. based on previous experience. On this occasion, a lot of VIPs and VVIPs will also visit Red Fort, the advisory states.   Traffic is being diverted from Chatta Rail Crossing, Subhas Park T-point, Shanti Van Chowk and Delhi Gate, according to requirements during the period of Bharat Parv so that congestion is avoided, it stated.

"Trade, Tourism, And Currency Are Weapons Of Globalization," says S. Jaishankar

Abuja: On Monday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar declared that currency, trade, and tourism have become "weapons" in the weaponization of globalization. Although he acknowledged the benefits of globalization, he emphasized its drawbacks as well, pointing out how much of the world depends on the concentration of economic power in a small number of areas.Speaking at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs in Lagos, Mr. Jaishankar observed that the global system put in place in 1945 still exists, and those in positions of power are hesitant to give others more opportunities."When I talked about globalization and concentration, a different challenge that came up was how globalization itself has been weaponized. Today, money is a weapon, trade is a weapon, tourism is a weapon, and dominant players—whether they are producers or consumers—often use their market shares on the global system without hesitation in order to further their specific national goals. Of course, the foundation of all of this is that this is an Institute dealing with international relations." Mr. Jaishankar A world order that was established in 1945, when the number of United Nations members was approximately 25% of what it is today, presents a challenge in affairs that we are all too familiar with. This world order stubbornly persists because those in power do not want to open up more seats for others to be at the engine."He pointed out that returning the world to its natural diversity is at the center of today's global agenda in many ways. In addition to highlighting the difficulties the globe faces in the process, Mr. Jaishankar referred to the restoration of natural diversity as a "collective objective".   "Restoring the world to its natural diversity is actually a collective objective in today's post-Colonial world," Mr. Jaishankar stated in his remarks. "The world was diverse and was distorted by the period of Western domination. This is why restoring that natural diversity is a central goal of the global agenda in many ways. The first obstacle to that process is that, even though many of us gained independence, we have all established our own countries and societies."   Restoring the world to its natural diversity is at the center of the current global agenda, the minister noted, underscoring its challenges. Although he acknowledged the challenges in achieving it, he referred to this as a "collective objective". The fact remains that the old power structure has not disappeared; while it may not be the imperialism of the 19th and early 20th centuries, many of the people who have ruled the world for the past 200 to 300 years still do so in various ways today. The question is how we challenge this, how we get past it, and ensure that the world is a more equitable place."Although globalization has yielded numerous benefits. Unquestionably, it has also resulted in such extreme economic concentrations that the production of a small number of regions now drives much of the world's economy. Now, it worked when we thought that everything arrived precisely on schedule to satisfy the demands of the moment, and that the entire world could function in the same way as Japanese automobiles are manufactured in Nagoya. We were wrong but we didn't know it and then COVID came and COVID brought home to every one of us that the most basic things of our life," he added. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, he claimed, the world was dependent on producers and suppliers from far away. He emphasized the difficulties individuals faced in obtaining gloves, masks, and basic medications amid the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized that excessive concentration needs to be reduced in today's world. "We found that during COVID, we were hostage to them and that many of us struggled with masks, gloves, ppes, ventilators, basic medicines, and vaccines. We also struggled to get food. We were frequently dependent on suppliers and producers from far away. "Thus, if you speak about a more balanced World a more democratic, one of the major lessons from the COVID experience is that our world today needs to be de-risked from the over-concentration," Mr. Jaishankar stated. "Global democracy encompasses more than just political democracy and diverse national rights. Our second challenge is that, in order to be democratic, every region and occasionally every big nation must be able to produce the necessities for its own economic and social security." Speaking about the third challenge, Mr Jaishankar said, "The setting of narratives and I spoke about the old domination, the old domination today doesn't tell you what to do with a stick the old domination will tell you what to do through social media through regular media through devising what is politically correct to setting standards and this narrative setting is actually a very powerful force today in international relations. Amidst all of this, there are ideologies, thinking, and regimes that are elevated, deposed, rendered irrelevant, and brought to the forefront through narrative setting. Of course, there are also challenges arising from the world's polarization."  

Himanta Sarma Has A Requirement For Rahul Gandhi's Yatra To Return To Assam

Guwahati: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's Yatra is reentering Assam today following its Meghalaya leg, but the Himanta Biswa Sarma government in Assam has refused to allow it to pass through major roads in Guwahati. The action is the result of a contentious discussion between Congress leaders and the Chief Minister of Assam, who they claim is erecting obstacles for the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra.The state administration has requested that the rally follow the national highway route as it travels towards lower Assam, citing that it is a working day in Guwahati and permitting the yatra to pass through important city roads could cause traffic jams. The National Highway 27, which circles the city like a ring road, has been requested to be used by the yatra.  This occurs one day after dramatic events occurred close to the shrine of an Assamese social reformer from the fifteenth century. Mr Gandhi had intended to travel to Srimanta Sankardeva's birthplace, which is close to Guwahati, yesterday. Chief Minister Sarma advised Mr. Gandhi not to visit the shrine prior to the Ram Mandir 'pran pratistha' ceremony in Ayodhya shortly after the plan was revealed. Rahul Gandhi should not give the impression that Ram Temple and Batadrava Satra are in competition with one another, as the TV channels will show him visiting Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva's birthplace on one side and the Ram Temple Pran Pratishtha ceremony on the other. Assam won't benefit from this. stated Mr. Sarma. The managing committee of the shrine also declared that Mr. Gandhi would not be permitted entry prior to 3 pm. While en route to the shrine, the Congress leader and his associates were halted. They then took a seat at the location of the roadblock on a dharna. Following their visit to the shrine, Batadrava MLA Sibamoni Bora and Party MP Gaurav Gogoi said prayers. Later, during an interview with the media, Mr. Gandhi expressed his belief in Sankardeva's philosophy. Like him, we think that fostering unity among people is preferable to fomenting hatred. He provides us with guidance and is similar to a guru. "I therefore believed that I should pay my respects to him when I arrived in Assam," he remarked.   'Gaurav Gogoi and all can go, but only Rahul Gandhi cannot go. I don't know, there may be some reason, but I will go to Batadrava when I get an opportunity," he said.   Now, the Congress yatra has been denied permission to enter Guwahati roads. Instead, it must travel via the National Highway 27, bypassing Guwahati.The Himanta Biswa Sarma government is accused by the Congress of putting obstacles in the way of the yatra. They have also brought up the episode when some laborers began yelling "Jai Shri Ram" and "Modi, Modi" as Mr. Gandhi's yatra was passing. "Since our entry in Assam, the most corrupt CM in India has been carrying out relentless attacks on our convoys, properties and leaders using his goons," according to the Congress.  

Odisha Government Transfers 41 Senior Bureaucrats in a Major Reshuffle

Bhubaneswar: According to a notification, the Odisha government reorganized its bureaucracy by moving 41 IAS officers. According to a notification released on Monday by the General Administration & Pension and Grievances Department, 17 district collectors were among those who were transferred.   According to officials, the reorganization was done with consideration for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and assembly elections, which typically take place concurrently in the state.Revenue Divisional Commissioner (Central Division) Ranjan Kumar Das, the chief administrator of SJTA, was appointed to the position. In addition, he will serve as the Southern Division Revenue Divisional Commissioner. Temjenwapang Ao, the Revenue Divisional Commissioner for the Southern Division, was named the Public Enterprises Department's Commissioner-cum-Secretary.   ADMs and sub-collectors were appointed to the ten IAS officers from the 2020 and 2021 batches, while the officers from the 2018 and 2019 batches were appointed as district collectors for the first time.Samarth Verma, the collector from Puri, was appointed as the SJTA's additional chief administrator. Verma will be replaced as Puri's Collector by Bijay Kumar Das, Secretary of the State Election Commission. K Sudarshan Chakravarthy, the Collector of Khurda, was named the Director of Minor Minerals. Chanchal Rana, the district collector of Bolangir, was appointed as the new Khurda collector. Nikhil Pavan Kalyan, a commissioner of the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC), was named director of rural development. Siddharth Shankar Swain, Collector of Angul, will take his place as CMC Commissioner.According to the notification, Abadaal Akthar, the Koraput Collector, was relocated to Angul, and Keerthi Vasan, the CDO-cum-EO of Ganjam Zilla Parishad, was appointed as the new Koraput Collector.   

"Amit Shah Lights Diyas After Ram Temple Consecration, Per PM Modi's Request

New Delhi: Following the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of the idol of Ram Lalla in the recently constructed Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Union Home Minister Amit Shah lit "Ram Jyoti" (earthern lamps) on Monday evening. The whole country is jubilant today over Shri Ram Lalla's arrival at his opulent temple. On the request of Prime Minister @narendramodi ji, the entire country is celebrating Diwali by lighting the Ram Jyoti. I also lit lamps with my family on the arrival of Lord Shri Ram," Amit Shah posted on X.Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the 'Pran Pratishtha' of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya earlier today by lighting 'Ram Jyoti' at his New Delhi residence. The prime minister posted the images to X with the comment, "Ram Jyoti."To commemorate the auspicious occasion and welcome Ram Lalla, the prime minister has urged the public to light the "Ram Jyoti." In the meantime, BJP National President JP Nadda and his family also lit oil lamps at his residence in Delhi to celebrate 'Pran Pratishtha' of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya. Meanwhile, RSS workers and their families celebrated 'Deepotsav' at RSS headquarters in Maharashtra's Nagpur.Additionally, 'Deepotsav' was celebrated at the homes of Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Haryana Chief Minister ML Khattar.   Pushkar Singh Dhami, the chief minister of Uttarakhand, participated in the 'Pran Pratishtha' of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya by lighting lamps with his family in Dehradun.   Suvendu Adhikari, a BJP leader and member of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly LoP, announced that the "Pran Pratishtha" of the Ram Temple had finally occurred after nearly 500 years.

Ram Temple Raised Exactly Where It Was Resolved To Be Built: Adityanath Yogi

Ayodhya: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated that the shrine has emerged precisely where it was decided to be built following the grand opening of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, which was met with unending celebrations and joyful chants and drumrolls. "The temple has come up exactly where it was resolved to be built several years ago," Chief Minister Adityanath said, addressing dignitaries in attendance at the grand 'Pran Pratishtha' event on Monday. After 500 years, the moment had finally arrived that had been eagerly awaited by generations. At times like these, a wide range of emotions arise, making it difficult to express one's feelings. I am also experiencing a whirlwind of emotions in my mind. As I stand here, I am incredibly moved and overwhelmed."Every city and village in the nation has become Ayodhya Dham on this historic and extremely sacred occasion. Today, all paths lead to the location where Shri Ram was born," the Chief Minister continued.As many people cheered "Jai Shri Ram" and "Ram, Ram," Chief Minister Adityanath observed that many of them were crying with happiness. "The entire country is 'Rammay' (obsessed with Lord Ram)," he said. We might feel as though we have entered the "Treta Yug" based on the sights and sounds around us. Today, when Prabhu Shri Ram ascends to the throne, a resolve is fulfilled. We're all flooded with feelings. Every Ram Bhakt has immense contentment, pride, and joy in their hearts on this auspicious day. The day that each of us has been"Everyone rose above their caste, creed, thoughts, philosophies, and ways of worship and dedicated themselves to the cause of Prabhu Ram, including ascetics, seers, priests, Nagas, and Nihangs as well as intellectuals, politicians, and tribal people. The happy and significant conclusion of their labors, which resulted in this magnificent temple rising from the ruins once more, is today. Millions of Sanatanis, or followers of Sanatan dharma, reaped the rewards of their penance and sacrifices today. Mr. Adityanath expressed his profound satisfaction that the temple is currently located precisely where it was decided to be built many years ago.   Also expressing his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, under whose leadership the centuries-old temple dispute saw closure after the landmark Supreme Court ruling in 2019, the Chief Minister said, "I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for helping us realise this long-held 'sankalp' (resolve) and 'sadhana' (devotion) and bringing an end to our prolonged wait. It is with great privilege that we have all been present for the 'Pran Pratishtha' of the 'Bal Vigraha' of Ram Lalla, which took place inside the sanctum sanctorum as per Vedic customs. Blessed be the maker who gave a concrete shape to our sacred impression of Shri Ram Lalla." "The virtues of our beloved saints are brought to mind even as I am overcome with a wide range of thoughts and emotions. After all these years of suffering, our souls are at last at peace. I offer my deepest respect to the sacred memory of our forbears who sacrificed their lives for the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mukti Yagya. It was a test of our national awakening as well as our Santani heritage and beliefs. It was the thread of unity that ties us all together," the Chief Minister added.  

Mamata Banerjee: "Congress Can Contest 300 Lok Sabha Seats, But..."

Kolkata: Amid an internal discord over seat-sharing within the INDIA bloc, TMC chief Mamata Banerjee on Monday batted for the idea of regional leaders spearheading the fight against the BJP in specific regions, suggesting that Congress independently contest 300 Lok Sabha seats. Ms Banerjee, the chief minister, also accused the CPI(M) of striving to control the opposition grouping's agenda, underscoring that no one confronts the BJP as directly as she does."I insist that particular regions should be left to regional parties. They (Congress) can fight on 300 (Lok Sabha) seats alone, and I will help them. I will not contest those seats. But, they are adamant about doing what they want," she said at an 'all-faith harmony rally' in Kolkata, which coincided with the consecration ceremony at the Ram temple in Ayodhya.Ms Banerjee's comments followed her assertion during a recent internal party meeting that the TMC is prepared to independently contest all 42 Lok Sabha seats in Bengal if not given "due importance". "I have the power to take on the BJP and fight against it. But, some people don't want to listen to us about seat-sharing. If you don't want to fight the BJP,Ms. Banerjee chastised the Congress for postponing talks on seat-sharing in the state, but she did not specifically mention the party. The leader of the TMC stated that she could not accept the CPI(M)-led Left Front dictating the agenda for the INDIA bloc meetings. "I proposed the name INDIA at an opposition bloc meeting. But whenever I attend the coalition's meetings, I find the Left trying to gain control. This is not acceptable. I cannot agree with those with whom I had fought for 34 years," she said.Ms. Banerjee chastised the Congress for postponing talks on seat-sharing in the state, but she did not specifically mention the party.I've adjusted and gone to the INDIA bloc meetings in spite of these insults," Ms. Banerjee said. "Just going to the temple isn't enough," she remarked, seemingly in reference to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi being prevented in Assam from seeing the birthplace of Vaishnav saint Srimant Sankardeva.  She emphasized her proactive approach towards the saffron camp by asking, "What percentage of politicians today confronted the BJP head-on? Someone visited one temple and believed it to be adequate, but it wasn't. I am the only one who visited the temple, gurudwara, church, and mosque. When the Babri Masjid issue (demolition) happened, and violence was taking place, I wasMs. Banerjee's remarks provoked strong responses from the CPI(M) and the Congress.   "We are unable to comment on the caprices and whims of the TMC hierarchy. Let them do whatever they feel like," Bengal Congress president Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said.

George Soros’s Texas cash infusion shows Democrats are afraid of losing: Mayra Flores

The move by left-wing billionaire George Soros to pour major cash into turning Texas blue in 2024 shows Democrats are afraid of the GOP’s momentum in the state, Republican candidate and ex-Rep. Mayra Flores told the Washington Examiner in an interview.Soros personally has transferred at least $100,000 since August 2023 to the Democratic Party Executive Committee in Cameron County, which is part of the Lone Star State’s 34th Congressional District, where Flores is seeking to unseat Rep. Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX). The Democratic megadonor also made donations to Hidalgo and Dallas counties and has wired hundreds of thousands of dollars to the liberal Texas Majority PAC, according to financial disclosures.Soros personally has transferred at least $100,000 since August 2023 to the Democratic Party Executive Committee in Cameron County, which is part of the Lone Star State’s 34th Congressional District, where Flores is seeking to unseat Rep. Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX). The Democratic megadonor also made donations to Hidalgo and Dallas counties and has wired hundreds of thousands of dollars to the liberal Texas Majority PAC, according to financial disclosures.Meanwhile, the GOP-led House Judiciary Committee released a report Thursday putting forth that the Biden administration’s “actions in dismantling interior immigration enforcement, which enables illegal aliens to stay in the United States indefinitely.”“Over the past six months, we’ve been traveling and sharing our message of faith and the American dream with voters, who are seeing the disaster that Joe Biden created in South Texas,” Flores said. “I was in Brownsville, and we brought in over 100 women who are Spanish-speaking who voted for Biden in 2020. And I went to speak with them about my campaign. ”Toward the end of that meeting, Flores said the women all told her they would not be voting for Biden in 2024. She underscored how the attendees are living paycheck-to-paycheck and upset, searching for better economic opportunities and safer communities.In Texas, the immigrant crisis hits home for voters, who view border security as a top concern heading into 2024, according to recent polls. Soros’s helping hand in 2024 to Democrats in the Lone Star State comes after nonprofit groups affiliated with the billionaire have dished out millions of dollars in recent years to entities pushing for open borders and, in some cases, have been accused of violating federal law while doing so. In the 2022 election, Flores was trounced by more than 11,400 votes. It was a major disappointment to the Republican Party, whose consultants in Washington and across the country communicated that there would be a “red wave,” but it never materialized. That year, Gonzalez highlighted how the Flores campaign spent more than $7 million against him and still could not capture the South Texas district.    

Biden’s slow trickle approach to student debt pleases no one except small slice of borrowers

President Joe Biden continued his slow rollout of student debt transfers Friday morning with the announcement that his administration will write off $5 billion worth of loans for 74,000 borrowers.The White House touted the move as the president using “every tool at our disposal” to cancel student debt, yet the trickle approach has outraged conservatives who say the actions are illegal, while “forgiveness” advocates are urging the administration to go bigger.“President Biden continues to defy the Supreme Court and Congress by forgiving yet another round of student debt,” Job Creators Network Foundation President Elaine Parker said. “His lawless actions make a mockery of the separation of powers and set a dangerous precedent that consolidates more power in the executive branch.”Parker said college students are the “biggest losers of the move,” as colleges have been given a “blank check” to continue overcharging with the push. Conservatives also like to point out that any unpaid loans fall on the backs of taxpayers.But the other side isn’t satisfied, either. Biden initially tried to cancel up to $20,000 in loans for anyone making less than $125,000 a year or up to $40,000 for married couples earning up to $250,000. The total price tag exceeded $400 billion but never went through, as the Supreme Court ruled it illegal.Instead, the relatively smaller amounts canceled affect 3.7 million borrowers, or less than 10% of the 40 million-plus people who hold student loans. “The student loan issue was not something addressed by the White House in the end in a comprehensive way, according to many young voters,” CNN’s Audie Cornish told press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre earlier this month. “Are you going to try to finish those jobs in particular?”Jean-Pierre, who had not mentioned student loans when asked about the White House’s 2024 priorities, responded by saying Biden “took steps” despite the obstacles. “The president put forth a plan,” she said. “He wanted to keep his promise on dealing with the student loan debt that is really crushing families across the country, and he took steps even though the plan that he put forth was stopped, certainly, by folks in Congress.”The latest round, like every round since the Supreme Court loss, was described as a fix to existing loan programs, often crediting late, partial, or deferred payments toward completion of them. “From day one of my administration, I vowed to improve the student loan system so that a higher education provides Americans with opportunity and prosperity — not unmanageable burdens of student loan debt,” Biden said on Friday. “I won’t back down from using every tool at our disposal to get student loan borrowers the relief they need to reach their dreams. ”Some borrowers may be waiting for more tools to emerge.Loan payments did not have to be made during a pandemic-related pause that stretched well over three years before ending last fall.A recent survey found that 60% of borrowers have missed payments since the pause ended, 25% still haven’t made any payments, and 9% are intentionally “boycotting” in hopes of pressuring the government to cancel more debt. “Biden’s latest student loan debt vote-buying scheme comes just days after his Education Department failed its independent financial audit for the second year running,” said Bob Eitel, who helped craft regulations under the Betsy DeVos-led Department of Education. “These bailouts will only encourage more borrowers to renege on their loans, add fuel to the fire of tuition inflation, and punish hardworking Americans who either never went to college or repaid their loans.”